may be years until the day

Where Heather becomes eight years old

2009-05-12T03:07:32Z

The new Disney "The Princess & the Frog" official trailer!

I realize I love Disney movies way too much, and I might be too attached to all the princess movies, but I'M SO EXCITED FOR THIS! And it looks really good! Both traditional and new, and I'm so happy Disney is returning to classic 2D animation! Now I just hope this does really well so they don't abandon 2D altogether.

The frog reminds me of the frog from The Princess Swan — I think it's both the style and the accent. In fact it almost feels like a Don Bluth film than Disney, but still, so good!

Here's the official Disney site

Where Heather includes things of all sorts

2009-05-08T01:47:37Z

Random updates! We'll see how this goes.

I'm slowly transitioning back into work. It's mostly good since I have a tendency of turning into a couch potato at if I'm left at home. Why is it I never have energy no matter how much or little I sleep? Anyway, it'll be good to be in a routine — except that I wish I was getting more hours at the daycare. I'm only working there five days this month, so it's back to the farmer's market for me! Seriously, I can't escape that place, but it's nice to work with my mom, and I'm really grateful I have any kind of job at all right now.

I need the money! I definitely bought those two Penguin Classics books that I posted about previously. I had to hold myself back from getting them all, but I did decide (and it wasn't a hard choice) on Sense & Sensibility and Jane Eyre. Next, maybe Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Wuthering Heights... eventually Pride & Prejudice of course. I'm so excited to even have the two considering I thought they were lost to me forever! Seriously these are the top "collector's items" to me, methinks.

With moving back home, I've been organizing my room a bit and upping the decorative style. (This is, of course, completely coincidental with my deepening ~~obsession~~ interest in design blogs and shows.) Unfortunately I can't do as much as I'd like with my bedroom because it is partly a storage space for my dad's stuff. My family has always been poor at living "lightly" and now that Dad has moved his office home, there's even more random stuff. Like two or three old computer monitors that, really, no one is going to use. Anyway I've still made progress and I love the little touches that at least I can see. Pictures to come (if only to show off my lovely books and other favourite things). I found a handkerchief that my mom embroidered and put it in a cream frame that has been sitting on my desk (empty) for years. It looks really cute! And I've moved my Grandma's Royal Daulton figurine to a place of prominence on the end of my display shelves where it stands out. I always loved her "girls" and she gave this one especially to me. (Her name is "Heather" — lovely.) It was given in secret, sort of... so that makes her even more special.

Click here for an awesome review of Twilight (the books).

When someone reads Twilight, it is the literary equivalent of eating a circus peanut. There is nothing there but pure guilty indulgence. You want drama, you want sex (but we're Mormons here so its very tame...err...did someone just hear a headboard crack?) and you don't want anything to get between them and you. Especially not big words or fancy, thought-provoking ideas.

Now I don't mean this to be offending — just interesting. And possibly entertaining. ;)

soteria recommended singer Lisa Hannigan. She's got such a pretty, natural voice and whimsical style. Check out her MySpace!

That's all for now... I'm watching Grey's Anatomy. Who the heck goes to work — especially at a hospital — on their wedding day?!

Pretty things that appeared on my Friends-list

2009-05-05T04:08:41Z

Shared by poppytalk here

Shared by inishmaan — Francois Gerard, "Madame Recamier," 1805

Where Heather reveals her book collector geek

2009-05-05T01:55:27Z

They're available in Canada!!!

"Fine Books" from Penguin

I think it was the lovely lalumena who brought these books to my attention first. You can see the Penguin Blog/Interview with the designer here to find out more and see all the drool-rendering copies of classics.

I can't help myself — I've wanted them so badly. And up 'til now, they've been virtually un-obtainable for me! I was even hoping my boyfriend would be able to get some for me when he visited England this month but THEN Penguin discontinued them. Arrrrrrrrgh >:(

But now I can get them with no fuss and no conversion rate! I'm definitely getting Jane Eyre and Sense and Sensibility. Yes, I have them both, but those are my favourite designs and I could really use a prettier copy of Jane Eyre. (And S&S is just too pretty to resist. Not as crazy about the Pride and Prejudice design, which is just as well.

Why oh why must I be the annoying combination of all graphic designer, bookworm AND collector? Add lover of all classic novels and it makes for a very expensive hobby.

Where Heather passes the time in 1973

2009-05-01T02:50:02Z

I'm all finished exams! I don't feel finished, though, because even though my exam was done at 11 this morning, I have to wait here at school 'til tomorrow at 9:30 am to officially check out of my dorm room. It's painful watching everyone move out because I'm so ready to be at home for the summer!

In the mean time, I'm occupying my time with a Life on Mars marathon. It's about time I watch this series, really. And while I probably wouldn't watch it over and over again, there's no denying it is good. I mean, John Simm + Philip Glenister? Definitely good watching. And look who Sam's parents are:

Kate from Robin Hood, a.k.a. Joanne Frogatt. I have to admit, I prefer her hair in this. (Her braid always looks like it's riding too low as Kate...)

And Lee Ingleby is Sam's father. :D

They both think Sam is a little bit nutty.

Haha, the rolling of the eyes at the husband who never fixes things around the house. I think they're very cute. It's a shame — though very, very clever — in how it all works out...

I have to admit, I'm anxious to see how everything winds up. I always though it was bizarre that a TV show would only run for 16 episodes, but at the same time the premise can only be stretched so far. It starts to get boring in that I don't really care about the random phone calls and TV messages. I like how subtly and naturally the Sam/Annie relationship is developing — it's not shoved down your throat, like "this is the romantic couple of the show." They become good friends and only in the second season is it actually moving forward.

Can't wait to see Ashes to Ashes once this is finished. I'm very curious to see how that one is set up, and how it's connected to LoM, though I know the basics.

Anyone else watching these? I know there are definitely some of you! (*cough* Charlotte! /lulamena)

ETA: Did I forget to mention that I'm starting to think in a Manchester accent? I kid you not. Especially with long "u" and hard "-ng," etc. It's like listening to the lecturers at Capernwray for five hours a day and thinking in the Scottish accent, haha.

Where Heather is obsessed with picspams and British TV in general

2009-04-29T01:15:46Z

Has anyone seen this new show Being Human? It's about a werewolf, a vampire and a ghost all living together as they try to live as normally as [un]humanly possible. Russel Tovey is a main character — the werewolf, in fact — and lo and behold, who should appear as his ex in the pilot but Claire Foy!

How cute is that? Except she's chasing him and he is trying to get away to protect her. I don't blame Amy for choosing Matthew Macfadyen in Little Dorrit but I still have a soft spot for Russel Tovey. I was hoping she would stay in the show but... oh well.

Also, do you know who makes the best picspams? three_nails. I've rediscovered them. The favourites: Casualty 1907 parts one, two and three, A Room with a View and JJ Feild.

I think you can tell how much I should be studying by the fact that this is my third post in one day. That, and I've started a Sophie and Frank/Cranford picspam.

"Our Mutual Friend" picspam — Lizzie & Eugene

2009-04-28T22:24:12Z

We meet Lizzie Hexam and Eugene Wrayburn. One, a lowly girl whose father makes his way from the garbage from the river. The other, a wealthy aristocat who is bored to death with the upper class.

Gaffer Hexam: ...You hate the very sight of this river. As if it wasn't your living. As if it wasn't meat an' drink to ya. Lizzie, the driftwood fire that warmed you when you was a baby was pulled out of the river.

Eugene: [On everyone's interest in Mr Harmon's death] Society becomes restless when it smells a great fortune left unclaimed.

The two meet in grizzly circumstances — a corpse dragged out of the river. They don't speak to each other but the sparks fly!

Lizzie: I was so shy that first night I saw him I wished I could disappear!

Miss Abby (a.k.a. Mrs Jennings from S&S 2008 and Queenie from Lark Rise) begs Lizzie to leave her father and better her life.

Lizzie: You don't know him. The more my father is accused the more he needs me to lean on.

She knows she must send her [selfish, ungrateful, bratty] brother away so he can get a better life.

Eugene: How could I possibly undertake matrimony? I, so easily bored.

No — he doesn't want his father's choice of bride because he cannot get Lizzie out of his head!

David Morrissey!!! In all his creeper, crazy stalker glory. (Oh, that Lizzie's brother had found another teacher!)

Jenny Wren: Don't she look well? Everyone thinks so, don't they, Lizzie my dear?

Bradley Headstone most certainly agrees. No harm in letting Charlie visit more often.

Eugene: I propose to be of use to someone which I never was in this world nor ever will be again... Please don't be distressed. I'm afraid I'm a little disappointed... I'd rather set my heart in doing this little thing for you, and Jenny.

He's totally guilt-tripping her! For shame. ;)

Lizzie: I think I've hesitated long enough, Mr Wrayburn. I hope you won't think the worst of me... I thankfully accept your offer.
Eugene: [Grinning] Agreed. Let's hope we never make so much of so little again!

The looks! The smiles! I love how Lizzie transforms him. *swoon*

Lizzie: He's a very strange man.
Jenny: I wish he was so very strange a man as to be a total stranger.

Creepy, creepy, creepy! Why do guys think girls are these muses to be stalked and possessed???

Jenny: And now let's have a talk about Mr Eugene Wrayburn... If you were to meet him on equal terms, what would you think of him?
Lizzie: Well, he has his failings but I think it's for the want of someone to trust in. And if I were a lady — which I'll never be — I would help him. Maybe I could help him become more — even though I am so far beneath him — to even think of being beside him...

Mr Headstone: Most unfortunate for me that I wish you to see me at my best I know you see me at my worst... It is my destiny. You are the ruin of me... You are always in my thoughts.
Lizzie: I don't like you. I never have liked you. And no other living creature has anything to do with the affect that you yourself have produced on me.
Headstone: You may imagine how low my self-respect lies now. Lies under [Eugene Wrayburn's] feet and he treads upon it as he exalts in it.

Charley Hexam: You're a bad girl and a false sister and I'm done with you. I'm done with you forever!

Ohhh, poor Lizzie. And stupid, stupid brother! That's what has her most upset.

Eugene: Lizzie — Lizzie, what's the matter?
Lizzie: Mr Wrayburn, please leave me alone.
Eugene: Lizzie, you know I've come expressly to see you.
Lizzie: Mr Wrayburn, leave me. And pray, be careful for yourself... I've had a bitter trial tonight... I am wretched. Remember what I said to you, take care.
Eugene: Oh, Lizzie. You'll not tell me to go away. Lizzie — You will not send me away from you...
[Lizzie leaves and Eugene stays outside her window]

He stays by her window! And see how many times he says her name. Lizzie keeps calling him "Mr Wrayburn" but he calls her Lizzie.

~~Colonel Brandon pining for Marianne~~ Creepy stalker "in love" with Lizzie... and Eugene is pining for Lizzie and desperate to find her.

Girl talk time! This makes me wish we had more scenes of Bella and Lizzie. They'd be such good friends, and I think they could both use a best girlfriend.

Bella: I hope you forget about both these men. The violent one and the one who is not worthy of you.
Lizzie: Oh, no, I do not want to forget about him! If I should forget about him, I should lose my belief that if I had been his equal and he had loved me then I would have tried with everything I have to make him better and happier... I love him. I love him so much and so dearly...

Eugene: Hello, Lizzie. Pleasant surprise. I was out for a day on the river — actually, I was on business and who should I find.
Lizzie: Mr Wrayburn, you must leave this place instantly.
Eugene: I will. If you'll grant me an interview, a private interview. Then I will leave, I promise.

Lizzie: Will you walk beside me, Mr Wrayburn, and not touch me.
Eugene: I'll try. Lizzie, don't be unhappy. Don't be reproachful.
Lizzie: Mr Wrayburn, you must leave this place.
Eugene: Lizzie, you know I can't go away. You won't let me. Now I don't mean you design to keep me here, but you do it. You do.

Lizzie: When you said you were surprised to see me — was it true?
Eugene: It was not in the least true. I came here to find you.

Well, duh.

Eugene: Oh, Lizzie. I never thought there was a woman in the world who could affect me so much. You don't know how you hold me, you bewilder me. You don't know how the carelessness that helps me at every other stage of my life cannot help me now. You've struck it dead. Sometimes I wish you'd struck me dead with it.
Lizzie: You must think of what you're doing... Think of me.
Eugene: Tell me how not to think of you, you'll change me altogether!

Eugene: Are you so determined to run away from me? Answer me this: If we had been on equal terms, would you make me leave?
Lizzie: I don't know.
Eugene: Would you still have hated me?
Lizzie: You know me better than that! How can I think of you as being on equal terms? That first night I met you when you looked at me so attentively I had to draw away. Having so looked up to you and wondered at you since that night...

Lizzie: If you do feel for me in the way you've said this evening then there is nothing for us in this life but separation... Heaven help you and heaven bless you.

Eugene: Lizzie, I can promise you no more tonight except — I will try to do as you wish... I will — try...

Eugene: Who could believe this — ridiculous position. Ah, yes. I've gained a wonderful power over her. She loves me! ... Now suppose... I married her. Impossible! And yet I should like to meet the fellow who could tell me I do not love her. For her true beauty, her warmth. And in spite of myself I'd not be true to her... I'd like to hear any fellow say a word against her. Yet she begs me to go away. I'll not go away. I will try her again. She will not resist me. Eugene, Eugene, this is a bad business... Now the question to leave her or to marry her...

Not to put a damper on the romance, but am I hearing this right? He is planning to seduce her one way or the other — He just can't make up his mind whether or not he's going to marry her. I've heard it said that if it wasn't for his being attacked he would probably have just left Lizzie... :S

Lizzie: I think I could not [lift and carry his weight] sir but, I'm sure that I did.
Doctor: [To a nurse] Attend to the girl. She must be amazingly strong at heart, but I fear that she's set her heart upon the dead.

Are you really happy now, Headstone? Take heart, Lizzie — this is what will bring you your happily-ever-after!

Jenny: He's still alive.
Mortimer: If he were gone she would still be sitting by him.

Eugene: Mortimer... this attacker, murderer — he must never be brought to justice. She will be punished. Her innocent reputation... I've injured her enough. I would have injured her more, believe me. You must not avenge me at her expense.

Mortimer: Eugene, listen to me. Were you about to ask me... if I would entreat [Lizzie] to be your wife?
Eugene: God bless you, Mortimer.

No words, save for the rector's speech in Latin. And they are married! So bittersweet. (In hindsight, everyone could be a little happier, no?)

Eugene: I bless the day!
Lizzie: I bless the day!
Eugene: You've made a poor marriage, Lizzie. Shattered, graceless man. Next to nothing to leave you a young widow.
Lizzie: I've made a marriage I would've given all the world for.
Eugene: You've thrown your heart away.
LIzzie: No, I've given it to you most freely, most happily.
Eugene: If you should see me wandering, Lizzie, call my name and I think I shall come back.
Lizzie: Eugene, not so soon — come back!
Eugene: Lizzie, you call me back from the dead.
Lizzie: Live for me, live to see how hard I will try to improve myself.
Eugene: You cannot be improved upon my darling. Impossible! On the contrary, I was thinking dying is about the best thing I can do.
Lizzie: And leave me with a broken heart?
Eugene: You seem to think quite well of me.
Lizzie: Heaven knows I love you dearly.
Eugene: If I were to live, you might find me out... I'm afraid that if I were to live I would disappoint... [She kisses him]

Eugene fades in and out of consciousness and sees Lizzie by his side.

Lizzie: Don't let him get overexcited, Mortimer. Visitors bring up his spirits. [She leaves]
Eugene: ... [Talking about Bradley Headtsone] No, he does not live. And he did me a favour. Consider this: had he not attacked me, I don't know what I would've done. How I would've injured her in my reckless passion. I would've lost her respect. Any possibility of our love would've gone forever. Consider what I have now, and then tell me that the schoolmaster lives... knowing as he does that he brought us together!

First of all AHHHHH — Eugene would have ruined Lizzie. Not very romantic if you ask me. Thankfully, in this twisted way, Bradley was the catalyst that resulted in the happily-ever-after for Lizzie and Eugene! I don't think Eugene deserves it but Lizzie sure does.

These end shots are so cute! So happy and sunny and perfect. (And I just love Bella with the baby — but sorry, that's for another picspam.)

Eugene: My wife is somewhat nearer to my heart than society is. So if I should ever think to hide her away then you — who I love next best in all the world — will tell me, she would have done better that night I lay bleeding to death to turn me over with her foot and spit in my face... As for myself, come hell or damnation, I really couldn't care less [what society thinks].

Mr Tremlow: If this gentleman's feelings induced him to marry this lady then he is the greater gentleman for the action and she is the greater lady.

- Caps by tempest_icons (here) and nancherrow (here).

I didn't want to neglect Lizzie and Eugene with all my Bella & John love, so they got their fair due! I don't think it's my fault that there are slightly less caps than those for Bella & John.

I hope you enjoyed these as much as I enjoyed making them. :)

"Our Mutual Friend" picspam — Bella & John, Part II

2009-04-27T23:33:09Z

Hope! A glimmer of hope — you can see it in John's face. Bella's true character shines through.

Bella: Will you be joining us, Mr Rokesmith?

Mr Boffin will not allow it. But the glance behind! She cares.

See? She is concerned at how Mr Boffin is treating John, comparing him to a sheep at market...

Bella: You think well of [Lizzie Hexam], Mr Rokesmith? ... There is something refined in her beauty, is there not?
John: She is very striking...

Ah! Is this jealousy I detect? So it is very subtle to almost non-existent, but still — I find it amusing.

Bella: Oh, Mr Rokesmith. Please do not be so hard on me. Don't be so stern! I wish to talk to you on equal terms.
John: I was forcing myself to be constrained as required by our agreement. But there — Let's go on.
Bella: Thank you.

He smiles! He really smiles! And the hand holding! So adorable.

Bella: Mr Rokesmith, it seems so long since we've spoken to each other naturally. I'm embarrassed to bring up another subject. It's Mr Boffin... You see, I've been watching Mr Boffin these past few weeks.
John: You? Watching? Surely not!

The smiles and the teasing... John really is wonderful once he gets past the stalker thing. And the way he looks at Bella as she talks about how Mr Boffin is becoming spoilt by his fortune... You can see it in his eyes that he's not thinking of Mr Boffin at all.

Bella: And I've seen the way he treats you and it gives me pain because I cannot bear it to be thought that I approve of it!
John: Miss Wilfer, if you could know with what delight I see that fortune is not spoiling you!

Bella is taking great notice of John! (She's seen how he represses himself to Mr Boffin.) And he's so happy.

Bella: I wish you could make a friend of me, Lizzie. I've no more character than a canary bird, but I know I am trustworthy. So tell me — me do you live like this?
Lizzie: You must have many lovers.
Bella: Me? No, not one.
Lizzie: Not one?
Bella: Well perhaps one. I did have one. Perhaps half of one.

They're so cute. It's too bad they aren't together more in this series.

Then Lizzie ends up telling Bella about Eugene and how much she loves him — and even though there's no gain, and she doesn't hope of marrying him, she is still glad to love him. You can just see it in Bella's teary eyes that she's seeing a side of John — that he probably felt the same way. And she spurned him. It's like Bella is hearing John's proposal all over again — and she sees its true value.

John: [In a mocking tone] You look rather serious, Miss Wilfer.
Bella: I feel rather serious. Would you believe, Mr Rokesmith, I feel that — that I've passed whole years today... I feel that much has happened to myself.
John: For the good, I hope. You're cold. You're trembling. [Takes off his jacket and puts it around her shoulders]
Bella: [Takes John's arm] What a beautiful sky. And what a glorious evening!

I think this is easily one of the cutest scenes ever. They're both so smiley and happy and it's like the beginning of the happily-ever-after John and Bella. And the jacket! And the hand holding! And the running to catch the train. Did I mention the grins?

Meanwhile, Mr Boffins' behaviour is getting worse and worse, and it distresses Bella to see John so unhappy.

John: My interest for Miss Wilfer began the moment I saw her, even before... I have borne my position here that I may not be separated from Miss Wilfer. And since she rejected me I have not urged my suit with one syllable or look. But my devotion to her has not changed except that now it is deeper and better founded. My feeling for Miss Wilfer is not one to be ashamed of. I love her. And when I leave her in this house I go into a blank life.

John: Miss Wilfer, goodbye.
Bella: Oh, God make me poor again! Someone, I beg, or my heart will break! Don't give me money, Mr Boffin, I don't want money! Mr Rokesmith, I'm deeply sorry for the reproaches you have borne on my account. I earnestly and truly beg your pardon. The only fault you should admit to is that you made yourself open to be slighted by a worldly, shallow girl whose head was turned and was quite unable to rise to what you offered.
John: [Takes her hand and kisses it]

Bella: You vicious old thing! [Rokesmith] is worth a million of you. I must go home for good.

John: My dear girl! [Hugs Bella] My gallant, courageous and noble Bella. You are my love?
Bella: Well I suppose I am if you think me worth taking.

There are no words. It's just too ridiculously adorable.

Lady Tippins: To lose the ward and the secretary in one afternoon! That is extremely imprudent of Mr Boffins. What is worse — Miss Bella and the Rokesmith fellow have run off together!
Mortimer: I hardly see how I can be to blame. When two people are inclined to run off with one another, a lawyer's the last person to prevent it.

John: Is there something wrong, my love?
Bella: No, nothing... I was wondering —
John: Yes?
Bella: Well, if one day I might go with you to the china house?
John: I'm afraid you find my office life in the city very boring.
Bella: No, it's just — I watch you pick up your briefcase in the mornings. I do not know where you go or what you do with whatever is in that important-looking place.

John: Are you bored, Bella?
Bella: No, of course not. Our own dear house. There's so much to do, how could I be?
John: But you are not regretting it? Hmm? Having married no money at all — absolutely no future whatsoever?
Bella: [Smiling] You must not tease me! It's clear I'm being tested in some way. [Turning serious] But you will not break me. No you won't.

These are my favourite shots. I love the glowing and the colour... And Bella and John are very pretty — such a cute banter they have, too.

I don't think Bella's regretting anything — I just think she feels that John is hiding something from her. Which is justifiable, considering that he is hiding something!

Bella: John dear? You will come with me to see Lizzie Hexam married?
John: No I cannot. You must go... Forgive me. Bella, my life... Don't you remember telling me you felt you were being tested in some way? Well I think the time will be coming when you will be tested. But for now, trust me, please.

And she does completely. No matter how odd or suspicious, Bella stands by John, though Mortimer finds it strange that he has never met Mr Rokesmith...

John: And how was Lizzie, my love?
Bella: Suffering in almost unbearable happiness.

And then Mortimer accidently sees John — and Bella finds out that her husband is closely and suspiciously related to the Harmon murder.

Bella: [Waking up from a nightmare] John Harmon is dead!
John: What is it, my dear?
Bella: John Harmon is drowned.

I think John's charade is unravelling rather quickly! And on an entirely different note, I love how John always calls her "my love" or "my dear" or "my life" — so cute.

Bella: I have something to tell you. You're not the only one with a secret. Only I'm ready to tell you mine.

GAH! So cute. Words are unnecessary and they're both so happy!

Bella: John! What's happening?
John: Nothing can harm us, remember. Don't distress yourself. [He kisses her] I'll be back by morning.

That's quite a strain on trust! Plus I wouldn't think he'd want to worry her so much considering her new condition.

John: I must ask you this, Bella — you've become fond of this cottage.
Bella: Well of course I have — it's our life together.
John: I'm afraid we have to leave, my dear. My new position has a dwelling house attached, rent-free.
Bella: John. Do you consider this a game, my dear?
John: Yes, I do!
Bella: And what about the baby? Will there be room in the house for the baby?
John: There will I'm sure be room for us all. But why should you take this on trust? We will go and look at it this morning.

And the suspense continues! He takes her to the Boffins' residence? Which results in Bella fainting like a good Victorian heroine.

Mrs Boffin: Bella, my dear. Tell me who this is.
Bella: Well, my husband of course.
Mrs Boffin: Oh my. His name, dearie.
Bella: Rokesmith.
Mrs Boffin: No, it ain't. Not a bit of it.
Bella: Well, Hanford then.
Mrs Boffin: No, it ain't. Not a bit of it.
Bella: His name is John?
Mrs Boffin: I should hope so, dearie! ...
Bella: John Harmon?! But that's not possible — he is drowned!

John: Forgive me, my darling. I was drowned, or as good as... I had nothing left to live for. I had nothing to lose by trying you out. And when I did I found I had the most worthy of wives. And then this new life growing within you. So when I did miraculously have everything I was afraid to lose it and determined to hold fast to it.

John: Can you forgive me? We might still be in Blackheath had it not been for Mrs Boffin and our friend the inspector.
[Bella smiles and kisses him]

I think Bella forgives John a little too easily, and accepts everything so quickly — but it's all so sweet. I love this moment by the window!

*swoon* There they are, the proper Harmons — Mr, Mrs, and baby. I think the late Mr Harmon had somthing with that will!

- Caps by tempest_icons (here) and wikidwitch (here).

One of my favourite things about Bella and John is that we get to see them as a married couple. It makes my fangirl heart happy.

And not to be forgotten:

Missed part one?

"Our Mutual Friend" picspam — Bella & John, Part I

2009-04-20T21:49:39Z

I can't deny I'm procrastinating from studying... but this is much more fun. It's no surprise that I love Our Mutual Friend and it never gets enough love. I felt like making a picspam a couple of days ago and this felt like an obvious choice! A little stupid considering how long this series is, but I hope you all enjoy it!

Meet Bella Wilfer: bride grieving for a fiançée murdered on his way home to her.

Judge: We can only imagine how the poor girl feels, her hopes so cruelly dashed... The woman who waited patiently and silently.

Bella: How long must I wear this insufferable dress?

Bella: We never could have pretended to harbour any true affection. I was hardly likely to like this John Harmon — how could I? [She gets up to answer the door] ... And all this for a man I never saw and I should have hated if I had.

Meet Mr John Rokesmith — mysterious, brooding stranger who is eager to rent the Wilfers' apartment.

John: I'm very much obliged to you Miss Wilfer.
Bella: Obliged? And why should Mr — [looks at his signature] — John Rokesmith be obliged to me?
John: I've given you so much trouble.
Bella: By signing my name?

Bella: Mark my words, between Mr Rokesmith and myself there is an antipathy and a deep distrust. I don't know what will come of it.

A sweet moment between father and daughter. Mr Wilfer tells the story of how Mr Harmon met Bella. "That's a promising girl — a most promising girl."

Bella could live with the Boffins! And how do they know Mr Rokesmith?

Rokesmith knows these dust heaps well. But no matter, he can pull off the secretary disguise perfectly and Mr Boffin is very pleased to employ him. Yay!

Oh, the brooding!

John: The loss of your fiançée, John Harmon, may one day be repaired. Of course I speak merely of wealth. The loss of a perfect stranger whose worth you could not possibly have estimated beyond the inconvenience of their death is another matter...
You must have been absorbed by your book. Is it a love story—
Bella: Certainly not. It's more about money than anything.
John: And does it say that money is better than anything?
Bella: [She sighs] I really cannot tell you. Find out for yourself for all I care.

Both Bella and John take up their roles with fervour. She, the beautiful socialite, and he, the loving (albeit a little creepy) stalker. John: She is so trivial, so capricious, so mercenary. And yet —

—she is so beautiful.

Bella: His attentions were fitting — amusing even — in Holloway, but here... they are hardly appropriate.

John: And so, my dilemma — I have worked my way into a position of power in this house so that I may watch her every move, follow her every step. And yet she barely notices me.

Bella: There is something strange about Mr Rokesmith. He shadows me day and night.

Bella: Oh come, Mr Rokesmith. Surely you can cast off your mysterious disguise and join us.

John: I cannot keep my secret any longer. I must tell her my story.
If I were to come back to life, I would inherit that fortune, and with it, sordidly buy a beautiful creature who has little regard for me. I would buy her...
It is a dilemma of my own making, but I cannot keep silent. I cannot stay stranded in this limbo between life and death.

John: I'm sorry. I had something to tell you, but it can wait. It can wait until tomorrow.

John: She has me under her spell. She has made me powerless. I am nobody. If I tell her my secret now, I may lose everything.

Bella: You even play the mysterious stranger in private, Mr Rokesmith. No family likenesses or personal possessions. It's a very good pretense.
John: Speaking of family, Miss Wilfer — you do not charge me with any commissions for home. ... I should be happy to be the bearer of them.
And the battle continues! They can push each other's buttons. Sound familiar?

So Bella visits her father. I love how this was brought on by John — as if, they really do bring out the best in each other. And Bella really does love her father. She even gets him a new jacket and hat.

So cute! It's not Bella, the widow who has lost her fortune, or the socialite who wants everything — for a little while, she is daddy's little girl. (Though her mercenary self does peek through a little.)

Bella: Pa, I do have a confession to make. I'm the most mercenary wretch that ever lived.
Mr Wilfer: I should hardly have thought that of you, my dear.
Bella: I've made up my mind that I must have money. And as I can't beg, borrow, or steal it, I must marry it!

John: Are you not well, Miss Wilfer?
Bella: I'm quite well, thank you.
John: Perhaps you'd better stay indoors tonight...
Bella: I'm not a child. I think an evening's marauding and attracting is just the thing to raise my spirits.

John is so disappointed that all Bella wants is money and superficialities! Yet he knows there's more.

Bella: I shall choose my husband carefully and am prepared to wait, to find an equal match.

Mrs Lammle: [to her husband] For a stupid young girl, she has uncommon...
Mr Lammle: Good sense?

Bella: You must stop watching me. Stop... judging me.
John: Miss Wilfer, I — I think I must tell you... that I think I'm becoming... That is, I fear... that I'm becoming profoundly interested in you... I truly felt devotion. Forgive me, but I cannot— I-I will not retract my feelings—
Bella: I reject them, sir! ....You know every line of the Harmon will. Now knowing every penny of my worth, you feel yourself bold enough to speculate on me? Am I forever to be the property of strangers?!
John: You are wonderfully mistaken! Goodbye, Miss Wilfer.

Take heart, Mr Rokesmith/Harmon — all the great romances need the obligatory rejection.

John: Ah, well, John Harmon. You would find out. And now you know it absolutely. She has consigned you to the grave once more and now you'll stay buried forever for you have no chance of happiness in this life.

- Caps by tempest_icons (here) and wikidwitch (here).

Conclusion? Bella + John = love — they're very sweet with enough angst to compete with the more popular couples!

And because this is my journal this picspam would not be complete without:

Go see this if you haven't already!

(More to come — Bella & John, Part II and Lizzie & Eugene)

Emma 2009 — Cast News

2009-04-07T20:27:58Z

Found out first through artic_fox, as well as AustenBlog.com and bbccostumedrama.

First there was this article at the Telegraph saying Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller are playing Emma Woodhouse and Mr Knightley (respectively).

Shortly after (at least, in my own discovery, not necessarily in publication) the BBC released this press statement with more news. Jodhi May is going to play Emma's (old) governess, the newly married Mrs Weston, and Michael Gambon will be playing Mr Woodhouse (Emma's father).

ALSO exciting: Sandy Welch is writing the screenplay! Seriously, why she doesn't get near the amount of recognition that Andrew Davies does, I'll never understand. I love her miniseries/adaptations.

Apparently this series will be four parts, each one hour long. I'm glad for that because three hours seems to short.

I'm very excited for Romola to be playing Emma, though she wouldn't be who I'd see first as Emma. My first reaction was that she's too old, but that's rubbish, I know. ;) Someone had suggested Carey Mulligan for the role, which would have been wonderful! Carey is everywhere, and yet she hasn't had a "breakout" role yet. But mostly I can very much see her as Emma. Of course, I'm excited to see Romola in an Austen piece! She's wonderful.

Not so excited about Jonny Lee Miller. He played Edmund in that movie adaptation of Mansfield Park ten years ago. Though, to be fair, Edmund as a hero is disappointing anyway, so that isn't the best thing to judge him on. It will be interesting, to say the least.

What do you guys think? Are you excited? I am so glad that Emma is getting its own 2000 update! I just loved S&S and the whole style and feel of it — so much different than the adaptations of the 90s, which all had their own 1990 flavour, if you know what I mean. It's nice to have different versions. Plus it will be nice and long! :D

Where Heather really wants to use subject titles like a Victorian novel (and lalumena!)

2009-03-27T00:47:26Z

I guess to be original I could use "In which" instead of "where" — from what I remember, all the chapter titles in Vanity Fair follow that pattern. Anyway, Charlotte, not that this is anything new, but I like the idea. ;)

I will try to make this short and sweet but there are a lot of random things to share!

New layout! Well, since the past week or so. I love how the colours in the layout match so well with the background — I didn't touch a thing. And the Marie Antoinette icon (by dragonclouds) fits perfectly — soft and spring-like. It just makes me happy! (Layout by knotloved and background by appletooth.)

- I'm very tempted to have a Jane Austen movie marathon — but not her adaptations. Rather, the "biographies" — Becoming Jane and Miss Austen Regrets would be extremely fun together, methinks. This comes from my finally finishing Just Jane by Nancy Moser, a fictional autobiography/novel. It was very nice, starting from her early twenties (with Tom LeFroy, thankfully a minor event) to her blossoming success and writing of Persuasion. It is bizarre knowing how things go, though. I liked learning more about her family. Another wonderful novel is The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen by Syrie James. It's much more fictional and focuses on a smaller part of Jane's life (and "possible" love affair). I recommend it! I've also got Cassandra's Sister by Veronica Bennett still sitting on my bookshelf at home, waiting to be read. Yet one can never have too many Jane Austen-related books!

Oh, dear, I'm failing miserably with length already.

- I caved and bought this lovely bag from an Etsy shop, Pesky Cat Designs. Her bags are all so cute! I've had my eye on this market tote (pictured) and this purse. I love the bird design and they look so well put together. I love the different fabrics/patterns on the inside, too. I decided on the tote because a) It was on sale (YAY) and b) It fulfills my need for a new purse and school bag/backpack! I could still use my backpack if needed, but I think will be so adorable and fun to use every day. I'd also love to try and make my own pencil case like this one here. My mom's got tons of stamps, and I love this look. Right now I have a kiddie "LaSenza Girl" pencil case and I'd much prefer this. ;) It looks simple enough to play around with, and it'll be fun finding a nice plain fabric for the outside and a patterned one for the inside. (Ooh, look! A tutorial for zipper pouches.)

- I'm so excited: both Mandy Moore and Sara Watkins (of Nickel Creek) have new CDs coming out! Check out their MySpace pages (linked) to hear some new music. Mandy's album is called "Amanda Leigh" (her full name, I believe) which comes out on May 26 and Sara Watkins' is self-titled and set to release on April 7. They both sound so awesome! I think Mandy is a wonderfully mature and underrated artist — she's grown up so gracefully from her "pop princess" days, and my tastes have grown up with her. (I just wish she wasn't embarrassed about her earlier music. It's not on her site.) Sara Watkins' voice is so pretty, though there seems to be a bit more of a country twang. Also, it definitely sounds like Sean Watkins singing background on her MySpace songs.
And here's a piece of trivia that connects these two: Sara Watkins sings backup on two songs from Mandy Moore's "Wild Hope" album: "Latest Mistake" and "Can't You Just Adore Her." (Click to download, http to http.) I love those songs even more just for that. Mandy + Sara = heart.

- I've been browsing lots of blogs, and apparently crafts and blogs (and young moms!) go together. Seriously, though it's been really fun looking through, with craft ideas, decorating ideas, and sooo many pretty pictures. I can't imagine taking so many pictures throughout the day but it must be nice to look back through everything like a visual journal. And some of these kids are so cute!
Here are some faves: Cakies | Elsie Marley | Sugar City Blog | Kennedy and Friends | The Inspired Room | A Field Journal

This bring me to a question: Does anyone know if you can add RSS feeds to your LJ friends list in any way? I know that someone can created a syndicated LJ account that will post there blog here on LJ, but is there anyway to incorporate other blogs onto my f-list? I'd love a way to easily see updates but I'm not going to constantly be checking these individually.

- I've crawled out from the rock under which I've been hiding! I've started watching Twilight. It's too funny when it takes itself so seriously, especially the romance, but other than that I'm enjoying it. My favourite part is the Cullen family and seeing them in the flesh. Esme is so sweet and they're all so cute to Bella and just a normal family... almost. ;) Though it is bizarre that they're all coupled up. That would've had to have been hard for Edward.

I don't like the weird greeny-gray colouring of the film, though. Sure, it sets a mood but it's too much for me. I also found the part where Edward walked into the cafe and Bella saw him for the first time, with the swell in the soundtrack, incredibly cheesy. I guess I can just picture all these fangirls in a theatre squealing, haha.

I do believe that's it. I've got some real life updates but I'll post those separately — there's enough here as it is. (That'll make you think twice about wishing I ever updated more — not that any of you do, but in theory...)

Robin Hood is back next week!!!

2009-03-17T19:14:25Z

March 28, to be precise. It's about time. (via robinhoodbbc)

I'm watching with mixed feelings, since what I loved most about the show has been stripped away — namely, Marian, and the chemistry between her and Robin. I am excited to get the show back, though, and most exciting is Toby Stephens as Prince John!

Still, ROBIN HOOD IS BAAAAAAAAAAACK! :D

Who needs school? I just want to make crafts!

2009-03-17T17:34:34Z

Well, firstly, I am absolutely obsessed with Etsy.com. Everything is homemade and it's just gorgeous. I could just browse forever... *tries to stop drooling*

The good thing is it gives me some great ideas for things to try out! I've got so many ideas for journal covers that I can't wait to try them out. My mom is really into card-making (especially with the Stampin' Up! tools) and I'm getting into it too. I absolutely fell in love with this bird design and got the stamp set that has it. I'd love to have that on a journal. ;) In fact, I've got a thing for birds... it's slightly bizarre but I think they're pretty. (More examples coming.)

I'd also love to do some embroidery things with fabric covers as well as paper. Even something very simple would look lovely, methinks. At least we'll see when my first experiment is done, heehee.

Then there's my jewelry... like this hemp necklace with beads. I'm not a big jewelry person but I love making friendship bracelets out of hemp and embroidery floss, and I think they can look really nice, and you can add beads and charms to fancy them up.

(AW, my daisy picture frame! I forgot it at camp and I think it got thrown out. :'( I was really proud of that and I love how it turned out, lol.)

Unfortunately I have no supplies here at school. I am home most weekends, but I never end up doing much. I think it would be a great way to spend my free time and be productive and have fun — and I love that these kind of things could also make great gifts. And eventually... well, I think I can make things that people would want to buy! How fun to have a little shop on Etsy myself. ;)

The problem with my browsing Etsy all the time is that I want to buy everything! And then I get very materialistic. Right now I cannot buy any more — I've spent so much money in the last couple of months, heehee.

But everything is SO PRETTY.

Heart Strings Wool Felt Necklace
- I'd love to try felting little balls like that and make a funky-chunky neckace, and I found instructions here! I won't try the heart shape, but I love the button with it.

Button Folk Art Cuff Hand Embroidered with Vintage Buttons
- This kind of embroidery would be fun to try for a journal cover, though I'll try something simpler to start — I think that design might be harder than it looks. I've also got a thing for buttons. ;)

Silver Garden Branch Bracelet
- I just love the overall style of the jewelry — so clean and simply and pretty.

Little Modern Birds [Pillow]
- So cute! Birds = :) And also, I think pillows would be fun to try as something different with journals, and you could do the same kind of embroidery/design.

5x7 wc sketchbook - Dogs Day [Journal]
- Here's an example of the fabric/embroidery design on a journal. Mine would of course be a lot simpler — an outline of a heart or bird or something, or little flower scribbles — but you get the idea. I also like how the binding is open. I would like to try and figure that out sometime. Another example is here.

The Wayfarer Purse in Camel Corduroy with a Bird on a Branch Applique
- Another bird design. I also like the detail of the inside fabric, and the size/shape of the purse. I need a new purse but this is a little out of my price range...

Doily Clock
- How sweet! Although it might be hard to see the hands of the clock against the pattern of the doily.

Fern Lil Hoot
- I don't know why but I think this owl is adorable! I love the colour combination better than the other ones, with the green and blue.

Jane Austen Regency Style Dress
- GUH I want a dress like this! And somewhere else I saw an overcoat — like the one Rosamund Pike wears in P&P2005 — and the two would be lovely together. *sigh* I doubt I'll every get an outfit like that, sadly. I still like looking!

My absolute favourite is:
EWD Love Bird Number 1
- It's so cute! And I just love the little heart as a wing. So pretty and simple.

With all my browsing, I have bought one thing!
Newcastle iSockit Deluxe for iPod, iPhone, and BlackBerry by BlytheKing
- I originally found out about this little shop via soteria's own purchase. I enjoyed keeping my eye on what she had, and then I saw this design. I loved the colours and pattern of the fabric, and that crocheted button sold it to me. ;) Ironically I bought it thinking there was only one, but she has another one available now, heehee. But totally worth it!
Now all I need is the iPod skin and the classic iPod... But in the meantime it makes a nice home for my "vintage" pink iPod mini. ;)

P.S. If anyone signs up for an account at etsy, would you mind putting my name in as the referral-ee? My username is "heatherfield." Thanks! </ shameless plugging >

New layout for the New Year

2009-01-14T21:38:37Z

New layout! ingenu0us

It's by minty_peach again — I love the pretty simplicity of her layouts. I've also used one her userinfo codes. I just replaced blue with green, and I love how it matches so well with this picture. It feels wintery to me. Not in an outside snowy kind of way, but a cozy up by the fire in your favourite knitted things way.

I've had so many things to post about that I think you'd find interesting but I never know where to start and I never have the energy. That sounds silly but lately — especially today — I haven't felt like doing anything. There's almost an anxiety, a looking forward to something good that's coming. Logically it's silly, because I don't have much to do and I can take the time to do some fun things right now but I don't know what to do, let alone what I feel like doing.

That being said, I'm staying at school this weekend and my good friend from camp is coming for a sleepover on Friday! So I am looking forward to that. The problem is this week is rolling by so slowly...

Christmas:
- Busy Christmas Day with my family Christmas, then my dad's family's Christmas, and my mom's family Christmas on Boxing Day
- Thomas was with me this Christmas — he didn't go home to England — so it was different but nice
- Had two retreats at camp (the same camp I work at) which were fun
- Lots of good presents, one of my favourites being the "Sleeping Beauty" DVD!

School:
- Only taking four courses instead of five because I never got into the writing course I was trying to take, but I'm not too disappointed 'cause I don't want to write right now anyway
- I'm taking two religion courses and in philosophy we're debating the existence of God, so my classes are exhausting emotionally as I argue in my head, and attempt at saying things aloud in philosophy
- The new course on "Paul" is frustrating as the prof exaggerates the problems with the Bible as a copied manuscripts and says that Paul's letters were only for certain groups at certain times. (Like we can't get anything out of them? They're no less true or valid! It's like giving advice to a friend — the letter could help others even if they're not in the exact situation, and the truth won't change in a few years.)

Reflecting on 2008...

2009-01-06T23:23:35Z

Meme snagged from elvenjoy but done by just about everyone. ;)

1. What did you do in 2008 that you'd never done before?
So many things! But I'll say I started university which is quite a big thing for me since I was nervous and I'd taken a two year break.

2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I never make New Year's resolutions.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Oddly enough, no. Odd because my cousins are all having babies (practically every year at least two of them are pregnant, haha.) Two of my cousins (who are also sisters) are both pregnant. Well, my one cousin just gave birth on January 1st which was lovely, because she really wanted to wait 'til the new year, heehee. But technically that's 2009's news.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
Yes. My grandfather, who I was very, very close with, died the week before I was supposed to return home from school in England (middle of March). I hadn't seen him since January, and I was going to see him for Easter. As devestating as it was, it was also beautiful to really feel God's presence and His love, and see him at work in my life as I traveled across the world by myself! And I also realized even more how much I love my family and how blessed I am and how much they love me.

5. What countries did you visit?
ENGLAND!!!!!!!! 'Nough said.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
Time management, but what else is new?

7. What date from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
A few. Pretty much that whole week in March. March 14th and 17th stick out, although I need to check... March 14th was the day my grandpa died, and March 17th was the day I started my journey from Carnforth to Pefferlaw (the longest journey ever).

Also, August 17th sticks out because it was the day when Thomas and I officially became a couple. ;)

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Traveling across England and the Atlantic by myself via train, subway, airplane, car... Of course, none of it was me, it was utterly God getting me through.

9. What was your biggest failure?
Goodness, I don't know. Actually, it would definitely by trying to do things on my own and forgetting or ignoring God. I need to keep up with my daily devotions and work on my relationship with him. It's ironic, because even though 2008 was a huge year for me, I also spent a lot of it feeling stressed and disconnected from God.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Of course. What didn't I do this year? In March I had my first pain/cramp attack, which resulted in my having surgery to remove a cyst on my ovary the size of a baseball. Thank God everything went well, and I'm doing well! The checkup in December showed there's nothing there at the moment. I do have endometriosis, though, so I'm on birth control, and it will require (fairly) regular checkups.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
Yikes, I don't know! Nothing big, just my usual books, DVDs, CDs... Christmas presents for my family. :)

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
My Grandma. She's just so amazing and strong and faithful and loving.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
My mom's best friend left her family and has apparently been cheating on her husband for years. We grew up together, and she was my "aunt" and us kids were friends. I just can't believe that something you think is so stable can just be torn apart... It makes me so angry that she would just do that and I see the hurt she's caused. I can't imagine what the family must be going through. A similar situation happened a few years ago with another family from our church, and it makes me sick to my stomach.

I've also been learning a bit of what's going on in my family with my uncle who is taking legal action against my other uncle for something that happened years ago, and it's really split a part of my (extended) family away... I don't know the details, but it sounds awful and very much like stubbornness and him thinking he's right. It's also awful timing, because my grandma has to deal with this between her sons on top of my grandpa's death.

I guess it's been a year of realizing how you can't fully rely on people you think you can. Yet I trust my family and I am still so blessed to have the family I do.

14. Where did most of your money go?
School tuition and residence, haha.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
I always get too excited about movies and books and TV shows... I was also really excited for Christmas and the long break from school and spending so much time with Thomas and my family.

16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
Um, I don't think there's anything specific... There are certain songs that will remind me of times of 2008, though, like Coldplay's "Fix You" or the Eels "Are You and Me Gonna Happen."

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
i. happier or sadder? Happier (or the same? Happy, at any rate.)
ii. thinner or fatter? The same.
iii. richer or poorer? Poorer.

18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Maybe taking pictures, doing crafts, making scrapbook pages... Writing letters. I want to try and do more of that.

19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Procrastinating. Putting God on the backburner.

20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent it with my family, as always. :) It was lovely.

21. Of the new places you visited this year, which was your favorite?
Um, England in general? I suppose it technically wasn't new to 2008 but it still counts. I love visiting Morley, a little town outside of Leeds. The people were fantastic.

22. Did you fall in love in 2008?
Um, well, not quite, but I'm probably on my way...? I'm not rushing anything!

23. How many one-night stands?
Seriously? Like elvenjoy said, it's definitely not something to be proud of! (And in case you were wondering, though you should know me, the answer is NONE.)

24. What was your favorite TV program?
Pushing Daisies. And One Tree Hill. Though if it's new to 2008 — Sense & Sensibility! I say that counts just as much as Little Dorrit, heehee.

25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
No.

26. What was the best book you read?
I honestly can't remember! I don't think I read a lot during 2008, except during the summer (where I went Jane Austen crazy, heehee). All I can think of is "The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen," haha. I really enjoyed that, as well as Robin Jones Gunn's "Sisterchicks Go Brit!"

27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Folk/pop female singers! Erin McCarley for sure, as well as Katie Herzig, Holly Conlan, Colbie Caillat, Sara Bareilles... And I loooooove Bethany Joy Galeotti's new EP as the duo Everly. Can't wait for more of them.

28. What did you want and get?
Nothing interesting or big that I can think of. Books and music and movies... Um, and I guess a relationship, heehee. I also got to go home for my grandpa's funeral.

29. What did you want and not get?
Nothing, really. Nothing worth remembering or regretting.

30. What was your favorite film of this year?
New? I think it was "Prince Caspian" (like elvenjoy). Nothing else good came out.

31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 20, and I was at Capernwray in England. I was given a birthday ribbon to wear as well as a pin. I was sung to by the 170 students at lunch, haha. One of my best friends did my hair all pretty (she's great at hair and makeup!) and the weather was gorgeous — very sunny and warm, especially for February. The Sunday before, my friends through me a little surprise party in my room and I was totally oblivious. We had some snacks like nachos and cheese and pop and cake and we played the "What If" game which was silly and so much fun. ;)

32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Nothing too major, though I'm always less close with God than I want to be...

33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Cute casual and pretty, or at least that's what I try for. I like jeans and pretty sweaters and layering and t-shirts...

34. What kept you sane?
God and my family.

35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Umm.... James McAvoy, I guess.

36. What political issue stirred you the most?
I don't follow politics very much — it all seems corrupt and choosing between the lesser of the two evils. I heard bits about the American election, and I was wary of how popular Barack Obama was, only in that he was being made to be the Saviour of the world, and people I respect did not like him. However, I do think he can be a good leader, but he will probably fall short of expectations. It isn't fair, really, to hold him on such a high pedestal... Also, the government here in Canada is ridiculous because we don't even have a government. We literally just had an election and they're thinkng of having another one because the Liberals can't stand that they're not in power. I hate how politics is just name calling, a power struggle, where opposing parties should actually work together for the good of the nation. Instead they're tearing the country apart and wasting money.

37. Whom did you miss?
My Grandpa.

38. Who was the best new person you met?
New friends at camp who worked as staff, and new friends here at university, especially one girl who I get along very well with. She's so sweet and she's also a Christian, and we're very similar.

39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008:
God is amazing and faithful! Not that that's a new lesson, but it was realized in a very real and tangible way this year. Growth hurts, but God is there every step of the way and it is so worth it.

40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Gotta think about that one.

Real entry coming soon. I hope you all had wonderful holidays and best wishes for the new year!

"When She's Near" Music Video

2008-12-15T21:14:25Z

Fiction Family - When She's Near from ATO Records on Vimeo.

Their debut CD comes out January 20th... And I sound like a commercial, but you guys should get it!! Jon Foreman and Sean Watkins, Switchfoot and Nickel Creek = :D

Hey, maybe this will count as my first "8 days of things that make me happy" entry. Everyone on my friends-list has been sharing and I want to as well. Or maybe the first thing is that I finished one exam today (Judaism) so there's only one more to go! No, I'll save that for tomorrow when I'm DONE... or Wednesday since the exam is late tomorrow night.

I just want it to be Christmas break already. My brain is fried. :P

Crazy university and Music

2008-12-04T20:37:45Z

Me = terrible at posting. I read my friends list regularly but there's not much to post about. :S

Right now life is probably about the same for me as it is for a lot of you — craziness it finishing up university term work and finals, and getting ready for Christmas. I'm so excited, though! I finally get to go and stay home this week. An entire week in my home bed — ah, luxury. :D

Not that I've been away from home lots. I've been home practically every weekend, so I can't complain. Still, I'm so glad for the break from school and this campus. I love it here, but it's small and I don't get out much, and break = very good.

As of this morning I'm done my crazy week of tests and papers. I'm halfway finished my courses for the term. Now I only have my writing assignments to hand in in a couple of days (speaking of which, anyone feel like looking them over if I post? Maybe I will. At the very least you might be interested in my short non-fiction stories about me, haha) — as well as my two exams on the 15th and 16th, Judaism and Greek Mythology respectively. I have to admit, I'll be sad to be finished those courses. They've been interesting.

BUT YAY I'M ALMOST DONE MY FIRST TERM OF UNIVERSITY, I'LL HAVE A FULL 1.5 CREDITS, AND CHRISTMAS IS ALMOST HERE!

I still have so much to do. I've made some homemade Christmas cards, but nowhere near enough for all the people I want to send them to. I also have to get presents for everyone. I've got most of my mom's, but I still want to get her one other thing. Everyone else in my family is elusive about what they want. Except Bryan — all he wants is "The Lion King II: Simba's Pride." Of course, Disney is stupid and it's not in stores. :S Any suggestions? Any tips for Ebay/etc?

In other exciting news: Fiction Family has released their first single! And their CD is being released January 20th!!!!

Who are Fiction Family, you ask? None other than Jon Foreman from Switchfoot and Sean Watkins from Nickel Creek. What could be more amazing than that? I've been looking forward to this for ages, back when they only had a "coming soon" website. You can go to their website now to get a free download of their song "When She's Near." It's really sweet and catchy. I've listened to it at least ten times since yesterday.

I just bought my first songs from iTunes, which is a little intimidating, heehee. I don't like buying virtual songs, because if I pay the money I want to have a physical object, you know? Plus iTunes is so strict with where you can play songs, but anyway... Bethany Joy Galeotti has been releasing so many great songs, but unfortunately, they're only mp3-released. It's only $1 a song, plus I want to support her (and help her get a flipping record deal, come on, people!) so I got the duet "I Want Something That I Want" she sang with Grace Potter. (I also got the other Grace Potter song for the full "album".) Bethany's got the most amazingly pretty, natural, full voice. I honestly can't wait 'til she makes a real CD that I can go out and buy and physically have. I hope it happens soon.

Hope you're all doing well! Have a great holiday season and don't get too stressed. ;)

Christmas Music Sharing Meme

2008-11-18T23:41:00Z

Go join in the fun!

"Little Dorrit" Trailer

2008-10-25T23:45:35Z

Airs tomorrow! Sunday, October 26 at 8:00 pm on BBC One.

Can't wait! Charles Dickens, BBC drama, 14 parts — and Matthew Macfadyen! :D Apparently it's a 14-part series adapted by Andrew Davies. And their are soooooo many big names in the cast: Andy Serkis, Eve Myles, Freema Agyeman, Alun Armstrong, Pam Ferris (Our Mutual Friend, Jane Eyre)... I'm sure I'll recognize more faces than I know names.

Official BBC Little Dorrit Site

IMDb Page

Videos:
BBC News Behind-the-Scenes
WOTV Meet the Cast — interview clips with Matthew Macfadyen, Claire Foy (plays Amy Dorrit), and Andy Serkis

New layout!

2008-10-10T00:03:14Z

ingenu0us ingenu0us ingenu0us

Featuring the art of the lovely soteria. I had the banner on my computer, found it today, and immediately fell in love. ;) Very pretty, and I love that the words are from one of my favourite songs, "Mushaboom" by Feist! My old blue layout had been up for too long, and it was time for a change.

You can see my matching banner/profile here.

By the way, does anyone know where I can find some good LJ user icon/community graphics? I'm tired of mine but I can't seem to find any others.

Sad news...

2008-09-27T18:05:07Z

Hollywood icon Paul Newman dead at 83

Newman, who had been battling cancer, passed away at his home near Westport, Conn., on Friday with family and friends by his side.

That's so sad. I'm not hugely aware of this actor — I know who he is, and I've been interested and what I've heard he sounds like he was a really nice guy. I haven't really watched any of his movies, but I've wanted to. It's just really sad. :(

I didn't know he was also a racecar driver. I did know something of his charity work. And he had a happy lasting marriage with wife Joanne. ...

The Perception Personality Image Test

2008-09-05T03:11:27Z

Snagged from elvenjoy and modernelegance

Your result for The Perception Personality Image Test...

NBPC - The Daydreamer

You perceive the world with particular attention to nature. You focus on the hidden treasures of life (the background) and how that fits into the larger picture. You are also particularly drawn towards the colors around you. Because of the value you place on nature, you tend to find comfort in more subdued settings and find energy in solitude. You like to ponder ideas and imagine the many possibilities of your life without worrying about the details or specifics. You are in tune with all that is around you and understand your life as part of a larger whole. You are a down-to-earth person who enjoys going with the flow.

The Perception Personality Types:

Take The Perception Personality Image Test at HelloQuizzy

I'm planning on writing a real post soon! I've now moved into residence at university which is a little surreal. I really like the campus, and the residence is really nice. It sure is different from Capernwray! But I'm also missing Capernwray and my friends a lot... More to come. ;)

BBC One — Costume Drama Trailers

2008-09-05T02:17:03Z

Just a little collection for fun... I always like their trailers.

I've got that song now, and it always reminds me of Jane Eyre!

And here are some DVD trailers, the first I'd never seen before:

Bleak House

Unfortunately, that's all I could find. I've never seen an actual trailer for North and South — not on any DVDs or anything, though I've seen ads for just about everything else. (Wives & Daughters, Daniel Deronda, The Way We Live Now, He Knew He Was Right and Bleak House. Ah, well...

Tess of the D'Urburvilles — BBC's new costume drama starts Sept. 14th

2008-09-04T21:52:26Z

You can check out the official BBC site here. It looks really nice! Though they're putting less and less content up these days, it seems. Still, well put-together.

IMDb.com page.

The official BBC press packet for Tess of the D'Urbervilles is here. (You can keep clicking on "next section" to browse the archives.)

More info at Gemma-Arterton.net, a fansite for the actress who plays the main character, Tess Durbeyfield. The site also has an amazing collection of images from Tess. You can also browse the "Articles" section for full articles about the series (i.e. here.) Of course, this all focuses on the one actress, so the gallery isn't complete, but it's still excellent.

I'm so excited for this! Even though I know it's sad, I always love me some good BBC costume drama. It's exciting that it is a new author, too — you don't hear much about Thomas Hardy. (I was rather spoiled last year, getting both Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, no?) I'm glad to expand my own "classic literature horizons," so to speak, heehee. I've even got the novel to read before I see the series, though I suppose that's not always a good idea, reading it right before watching it. All of the differences stick out even more. But I do love reading the book before seeing the movie/miniseries — it always is better that way.

Is anyone else excited?

Lots more to say, but first — MUST RANT/SQUEE RE: ROBIN HOOD.

2008-08-08T19:09:46Z

TOBY STEPHENS IS GOING TO BE ON THE SHOW AHHHHHHHSVFJVLSJHFDVLAFBSBDLAJFDLJABVDLHBAD.

I was just getting to the point where I didn't think I could continue watching, but then this comes out of left field and I'm hooked.

More than hooked, I'm so excited and can't wait.

TOBY STEPHENS. RICHARD ARMITAGE.

It almost makes me not care about Jonas Armstrong leaving and has me rooting for "Team Leather" all the way.

(Just found out via RichardArmitageOnline.com.)

I'm still upset about what they've done with the show. I don't know if I want to ever get Season 2 on DVD or not — I'd almost rather just keep things the way they were with season one and make up the rest of it myself. (You know, where Marian doesn't die and they live happily ever after.) And apparently Jonas is leaving the show after the third season — which doesn't come as a surprise, 'cause that's been floating around since before the Lucy-shocker. I just don't see how they can save the show. It's already lost most of what made me obssessed with it in season one.

BUT TOBY STEPHENS TOTALLY SAVES IT.

Not that it will ever be what it was, but maybe, just maybe it will go in a new way that will make it worth watching. Something totally unique, which stands without Jonas.

I really hope they do it well, though. I don't know how, but anything better than the mess they did with the Marian story-line. It's not even the fact that she died, but the execution was awful. I don't want the same thing to happen to Jonas.

I just have to keep thinking about Toby Stephens. And Richard Armitage.

BAD GUYS ALL THE WAY.

(Oops, forgot to mention that Toby Stephens will be playing Prince/King John.)

I feel so behind on everything — I haven't had the internet for five weeks!