What This Week July 18
Another week has come and gone, and it’s left me feeling a little perplexed. Where does the time go? If I’m being honest, this week was a bit of a struggle for me. Work was intense, but I also struggled with low energy. In talking to some of my IRL & Booksta besties, I know I’m not the only one. If you’ve been struggling to find your get-up-and-go, then read on! This edition of What This Week (July 18) features my secret weapon to fighting fatigue.
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What to Read
Book of the Week
I’ll be honest, y’all. I’ve not been reading nearly as much as I’d like to lately, mostly because I’ve been writing like crazy. But I did just start my first non-fiction in months (who is this person?), and I have no doubt it will be a thrilling read. Bad City by Paul Pringle (Pub Date 7/19/22) is the story behind the shocking tale of corruption and coverups that rocked the medical and university community in L.A. In 2016, LA Times journalist, Pringle, broke a story about Dr. Carmen Puliafito, the Dean of University of Southern California’s medical school (super prestigious), and his role in a drug overdose at a fancy hotel. The book reads like a fictional story, but, trust me, it’s 100% true. If you’re a fan of film noirs, this is a must read.
Must Read Articles
I’m about 30 seconds away from booking a trip to NYC just to go see this new exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art! The Met one of my favorite museums because it’s home to one of the largest collections of ancient Greek and Roman sculpture. So, for me, seeing recreations of some of those sculptures displayed with their original colors would be magnificent! Don’t miss this NPR article & video that describe the new exhibit.
Film is one of my favorite artforms. I’m especially interested in cinematography (not surprising given my love of photography). Directors have the vision, but cinematographers bring that vision to life. This fun new article from My Modern Met demonstrates the simple genius behind some of the most iconic shots in film. I spotted some of my personal favorite films; let me know if you see any you love!
What to Listen To
Album of the Week
Vance Joy’s new album, In Our Own Sweet Time, is everything I hoped it would be and more. If you’re a fan of his music, then you’ll surely appreciate this gem. It’s terrific from start to finish, with only a few slumps (Catalonia). Since listening both “Missing Piece” (video linked below) and “Looking At Me Like That” have been playing on repeat. At 41 minutes, this is a great album to binge while on a walk/run/bike ride. Sweet, breezy tunes are laced with powerful lyrics and soaring melodies, all part of what I’ve come to expect from Vance Joy. If you’ve never listened to his music, DO NOT miss tracks “Mess Is Mine,” “Fire and the Flood,” and “Crashing Into You.” Those are my fav tracks for good reason.
Audiobook of the Week
I’m a huge fan of witchy books (stay tuned for a best witchy books post coming soon). Last year I binged witchy reads in the Fall, but I haven’t read many since. During that time, I discovered Louisa Morgan’s books and fell in love with her expansive writing style (think historical fiction meets witchy goodness) and the Orchiere family of witches. More importantly, I fell in love with the narrator of her audiobooks, Polly Lee. So, when I started the audio version of Morgan’s latest book, The Great Witch of Brittany, it was like putting on a favorite sweater that’s been stored away all summer. This might just be my favorite book in the Orchiere series, so I’m sure I’ll be sharing more about it on the blog and social media.
What to Eat/Drink
Coffee Anyone?
Last Christmas my guy gifted me a Nespresso Vertuo Next & Aerocinno combo, and it’s probably one of the best Christmas gifts I’ve ever received (second only to my first DSLR). Since, I’ve been testing and trying different blends and drinks, and I think I’ve finally figured out which coffee blend is my favorite. Melozio is super smooth, low acidity, only slightly bitter, and very yummy. They just released Melozio Boost, a version with extra caffeine, and I was instantly addicted. I just ordered several more sleeves to restock my quickly dwindling supply.
What to Watch
Period Drama to Watch
I am HOOKED on Becoming Elizabeth, Starz’s latest historical drama. If you’re a fan of The Tudors, this picks up where that series left off. Packed with betrayal and intrigue, Becoming Elizabeth is sure to please any lover of period dramas. And don’t even get me started on the costuming! Fans of Downtown Abbey will recognize the love interest, Tom Cullen, who’s sure to make hearts flutter. Don’t miss this sexy new drama!
New Home Chef Competition
The Great American Dish is a must-watch for anyone who loves to cook. This new PBS cooking competition is fashioned after The Great British Bakeoff but with SO much more heart. I’ve never teared up while watching a cooking show, but hearing the stories of family, culture, and heritage really hit home for me. If you enjoy cooking shows, check out this new show!
That’s a Wrap
What a fun way to start the week! I love sharing more about my day-to-day life, so if that interests you as a reader, stick around. Blogging is a personal journey, one that I miss since I shut down my travel blog in 2018. To me, there’s no better way to be creative and have fun! I hope you stick around for future updates via email, Bookstagram, or Booktok! Have a great week, bebes!
xoxo
Carlie
