Reading

I have been reading this lovely autobiography of the New Zealand dancer, Douglas Wright. When I saw studying dance at university he dance work Gloria was one of my first inspirations. I really like that there are some very well written autobiographies coming out recently such as the Keith Richards and Patti Smith ones.

Stories

I love the art of telling and creating a wonderful, engaging story. I wish I was a better writer and hopefully with time I will be. Here are a few stories either with words or images that I have recently discovered.

The last clip is for a children's book written by Colin Meloy the singer of The Decemberists.

Glitter Paintings by Reuben Paterson

Recently I saw the contemporary art collection at Te Papa Museum and there was a striking monochromatic glitter painting of New Zealand artist, Reuben Paterson. I fell a little in love. Just like Ziggy Stardust on the walls.

Ballooning

For my birthday this year I decided that I would love to go hot air ballooning. I searched for places that did it and was so disappointed when I found out how much it costs! Wow! Not in my budget for a wee while yet. So I consoled myself with some more affordable balloons.

Hot Air Balloon Steam Ship with Blackbirds

Into the Wide Blue Beyond

Floating

Archival Ballons Print

Bridges and Ballons Moleskin notebook

Paris is a feeling

Run Careless Through The Snow

I recently stumbled across the best sale ever- the local costume shop is closing down which is very sad and the lovely lady is selling all of her exquisite costumes. I feel sad that businesses such as costume shops seem so difficult to sustain these days.


In my desire to support this shop I tried on half of the items and finally decided on two things- a vintage possum fur jacket and a 1960s two piece lace dress and jacket combo- both in perfect condition and I feel very lucky to own these things.


The reactions to my fur coat have been interesting. It is real fur however possums in New Zealand are a pest and a lot of garments are made out of their fur. Some people love it and some are not impressed. My philosophy is that I would rather use this amazing garment than leave it to rot. Here is another fur themed item.

Book stores and fireplaces

 

I spent a lovely morning browsing the local independent book store Page and Blackmore with my partner. My favourite was the collection of love stories edited by Jeffrey Eugenides 'My Mistress's Sparrow Is Dead: Great Love Stories, from Chekhov to Munro'.

It turned into a grey afternoon so we read in front of the fire all afternoon. Heavenly.

What is your favourite book store?

The Glamour of the Theatre

The epic, vast, grandeur of the theatre and the pre-show excitement has helped my students through their months of hard work in preparation for their show which is next week. I am missing being home when the sun is up!