Flick Pick/Get Lit: Sharp Objects

I finally read Gillian Flynn's intriguing debut thriller, Sharp Objects, a few years ago. I couldn't put it down. When I learned that HBO was developing a limited series around the material, I was all in. The casting hits the spot and Jean-Marc Vallee (Big Little Lies) is directing. Amy Adams is one of my favorite actresses; her range and ability to portray so many different types of characters is not credited highly enough. If you're a fan of dark thrillers with a female lead, I imagine you might be a fan of this project. I recommend checking out the book before the miniseries premieres on July 8th. It's a quick read and does not disappoint. If you enjoyed The Sinner, you will probably like this one as well.

















Now Playing: "Believe" by Amen Dunes

Get Lit: A Proper Drink Book Review

As my various social media descriptors proclaim, I'm a fond lover of books and drinks. Because of this fact, it should come as no surprise that I jumped at the chance to read acclaimed New York Times columnist Robert Simonson's recent release on 'The Untold Story of How a Band of Bartenders Saved the Civilized Drinking World'.

What I liked about this piece of literature is that it's unlike anything else in my libation library. It's more than just a pretty cover (which by the way, its art deco style design is very beautiful). It goes deeper than a collection of cocktail recipes. This is a book in the truest sense of the word.

Excerpt:

If you've ever tended bar or know someone who does, this would make a fantastic gift. It's also an interesting read for drinks lovers and those who appreciate quality storytelling.


What the publisher says about A Proper Drink:

A Proper Drink is the first-ever book to tell the full, unflinching story of the contemporary craft cocktail revival. Award-winning writer Robert Simonson interviewed more than 200 key players from around the world, and the result is a rollicking (if slightly tipsy) story of the characters--bars, bartenders, patrons, and visionaries--who in the last 25 years have changed the course of modern drink-making. The book also features a curated list of about 40 cocktails--25 modern classics, plus an additional 15 to 20 rediscovered classics and classic contenders--to emerge from the movement

Purchase a copy of A Proper Drink

More about the author



FTC: I was fortunate to receive a copy of this book by my own selection for review consideration through the tremendous BloggingForBooks.org program. I highly recommend this service to fellow bloggers, readers and authors alike. All opinions are entirely my own.











Now Playing: "Proof" by I Am Kloot
*One of those rare gems of a song that I ephemerally loved but totally forgot about. Was excited to rediscover it over a decade later. Very appropriate tune for this post.

The INFJ Book Questionnaire

1. Your favorite book: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

2. A book you started but never finished: Pretty Little Killers: The Truth Behind the Savage Murder of Skylar Neese by Daleen Berry (not a bad book just need to jump back into it)

3. A book you still haven't read but want to: A Stolen Life: A Memoir by Jaycee Dugard

4. A book you hated: Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss (hate is a strong word but I never really liked the artwork or cared for its negative, repetitive nature when I was a child).

5. A book that made you happy: Hello From Heaven! (...After-Death Communication) by Bill & Judy Guggenheim

6. A book that made you sad/cry: Finding Me: A Decade of Darkness, A Life Reclaimed: A Memoir of the Cleveland Kidnappings by Michelle Knight

7. A book that reminds you of someone: Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner by Scott Cunningham

8. A book that reminds you of somewhere: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins (traveling in Europe)

9. A book that you've read more than once: The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

10. A book that made you think: Bohemian Manifesto: A Field Guide to Living on the Edge by Laren Stover

11. A book that was better than the movie: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (although I also liked the movie)

12. A book by your favorite author: Barrell Fever: Stories and Essays by David Sedaris

13. A book featuring your favorite character: Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery

14. A book that was a guilty pleasure: I'm with the Band: Confessions of a Groupie by Pamela Des Barres

15. A book that no one would expect you to like: Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt

16. A book that describes you/you can relate to: Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham

17. A book from your favorite genre: Lily Dale: The Town That Talks to the Dead by Christine Wicker (Nonfiction/Metaphysical/New Age -- although Memoirs/Humor/Essays and Art/Coffee Table books are also some of my favorite genres)

18. A book that you tell others to read: What Remains: A Memoir of Fate, Friendship, and Love by Carole Radziwill (one of my favorite books)

19. A book that you love at Christmas: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

20. A book that you love at Halloween: Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice and Ghost Stories of Pittsburgh by Beth E. Trapani

21. A book that made you scared: The Encyclopedia of Serial Killers by Michael Newton

22. A book from before you were born: None Dare Call It Conspiracy by Gary Allen

23. A book from your childhood: Kenny and the Little Kickers by Claudio Marzollo & Jacqueline Rogers

24. A book that you wish you were in: Pittsburgh Born, Pittsburgh Bred: 500 of the More Famous People Who Have Called Pittsburgh Home by C. Prentiss Orr

25. A classic book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

26. A book that makes you laugh: My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One Night Stands by Chelsea Handler

27. A romantic book: Come to the Edge: A Love Story by Christina Haag

28. A children's book: A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein

29. A sports book: The Color of Sundays: The Secret Strategy That Built the Steelers Dynasty by Andrew Conte

30. A cook book:  Ladurée Macarons The Recipes by Vincent Lemains (I prefer to bake)

31. A book that taught you something: Mysteries of the Unexplained by Carroll C. Calkins

32. A coffee table book: Fornasetti: The Complete Universe by Mariuccia Casadio

33. A unique book: The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron

34. The last book you read: Stone Houses: Traditional Homes of Pennsylvania's Bucks County and Brandywine Valley by Margaret Bye Richie

35. The next book you're going to read: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

36. A book you wish that you wrote: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

It should be noted that after I completed this post, I took a look at my selections. I never realized that I read a lot of books that have death as a major plot point. I'm not sure how that ties into my psyche but there you have it. To see my virtual bookshelf, click here.












Now Playing: "The Walker" by Gayngs

Get Lit: A Few of My Favorite Coffee Table Books

Please excuse the horrible lack of feng shui happening within this collage. Its asymmetry is most disappointing.

I collect a lot of things. A minimalist I am not. And there are few things in life that I love more than books. Some women dream of having a jewelry box full of diamonds or a closet stocked with designer shoes but I lust after a home library. I tend to gravitate toward non-fiction. I enjoy memoirs, satire/humor, essays and anything on the occult. But my biggest love is for coffee table books. Not only are they fascinating to read and visually admire but they're also one of my favorite things to decorate with. Nothing makes a room look more put together than a well-placed book. I appreciate a wide variety of subject matter: fashion, art, photography, beauty, architecture, music, design... The list is endless.

I mostly get my books used from various online retailers (Amazon, ebay, etc...) but am always scouring thrift stores as well. To check out my virtual bookshelves featuring thousands of my favorite titles, you can visit my Pinterest. In the mean time, I thought I'd share just a few of my favorites:

• Well-Read Women: Portraits of Fiction's Most-Beloved Heroines by Samantha Hahn.             If you're a fan of quotes and watercolor illustrations, you'll appreciate this book. It's a pretty book to flip through and especially nice as a gift for the woman in your life who loves literature.
• Louis Vuitton: Art, Fashion and Architecture                                                                            When this book was originally published several years ago, it was at the top of my Christmas list. For fans of architectural store design, this one is for you. Lovers of Takashi Murakami's iconic collaboration with Louis Vuitton will cherish having this book displayed in their homes. 
• Habitually Chic: Creativity at Work by Heather Clawson.                                                           If you follow the sensational style blog Habitually Chic, you must add this fabulous book to your collection. For those who have a passion for making a living out of doing what they love, you will take away much inspiration. Creatives will particularly be receptive to its content. Over the years, I've proudly displayed this book at the office, on my desk at home and anywhere that needs a touch of brightness. 
• Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel by Lisa Vreeland.                                                           If you grew up reading fashion magazines like I did, you will be familiar with Diana Vreeland's iconic career at Harper's Bazaar. For the most part, Vreeland was before my time (and her own for that matter) but this book provides a stellar glimpse into the fashion publishing world's past. This is mostly a visual photography book showcasing Vreeland's extraordinary contributions to the industry. 
• Face Paint: The Story of Makeup by Lisa Eldridge.                                                                     Surprisingly enough, before this book was published, there really wasn't anything on the market quite like it. It's hard to believe that no one had put together a book on the history of makeup. That might sound frivolous but the cosmetics industry is massively profitable and has a strong following. It's no surprise how popular this book has become. I adore the artistry and femininity behind makeup so of course I appreciate every page of this very well put together book. I'm also a major fan of Lisa Eldridge's work as well as her YouTube channel. If you're a beauty lover, this is a must-have. 
• Advanced Style by Ari Seth Cohen.                                                                                                 Here we have another incredible book that was spawned via a wonderful blog. This is a fantastic display of impeccable style at all ages. Our society tends to favor youth and beauty over the wisdom and elegance that comes with time but this book defies that stereotype. One of my all-time favorite style blogs brought to life in book form.
• Kate Spade New York: Things We Love - Twenty Years of Inspiration, Intriguing Bits and Other Curiosities                                                                                                                               I love Kate Spade's whimsical designs and affordable price points. For fans of the brand, this is a terrific book to add to your collection. It features a delightful selection of style inspiration that girlie girls of all ages can appreciate.
• Vogue Living: Houses, Gardens, People by Hamish Bowles.                                                       This was one of the first coffee table books I ever bought. When it comes to this sort of genre, no one does it better than Vogue. I have since purchased a number of books from the magazine and they're all worthy of the cost. As a particular lover of the subject matter, this is one of my favorites.
• Mark Ryden: The Tree Show by Holly Meyers & Mark Ryden.                                                   Mark Ryden is one of my favorite contemporary artists whose work is so unique and magical. Some of my favorite pieces are featured in this collection. If you're a fan of this style of art, I highly recommend owning this book. If I ever strike it rich, Mark Ryden would be the first artist I would contact to commission a painting for me. I hope to add another book by him into my collection in the near future. 

Now Playing: "Call" by Francesco Yates

Luxe Living: Christmas Wishlist

1. Hair Dryer. I have a ton of hair. I'm definitely in need of a quality blower that will get the job done faster and more efficiently.

2. Prada Candy. I'm fortunate to get 50% percent off at the end of the month so I'm going to stock up on a few fragrance sets and roller balls.

3. Guerlain Meteorite Pearls, Limited Edition Holiday 2014. I'll probably pass on these because it's red not pink. The beads complement someone with darker skin. But a beautiful beauty item none the less.

4. Gucci Cosmetics. I was ecstatic when I found out Gucci was launching its own makeup line. I purchased a number of things as an early Christmas present to myself. I plan to do a review post sometime in the next few weeks.

5. Gallery Leather Planner. I've had this planner every year for the past few and it's a favorite. Worth the splurge. I'm old school and still prefer to write everything down.

6. Guerlain Primer. I've had my eye on this for the past couple years but can't justify the price tag. I'd like to eventually add it into my collection but it would make a nice Chistmas gift for the lady who loves a bit of glamour.

7. Shiseido Future Solution Set. My favorite skincare products! Nothing beats Shiseido. My gift to myself for the year. I'll try and do an in-depth blog post on my skincare routine sometime during the holiday season.

8. Amazon.com Gift Cards. To know me is to know my love for books and getting things in the mail. Can't beat the prices on Amazon. Check out my Pinterest Bookshelf Board to see the ever expansive list of what I've been reading or plan to get my hands on next. I really need to do some more Get Lit blog features and reviews.

9. Vinyl. Thrifted, used, new, old... always appreciative of adding new music into my collection. Pittsburgh is a gold mine for vinyl- especially oldies.

10. Louis Vuitton Wallet. I really wanted the Josephine wallet in green but it sold out when I was in Paris this spring. I may be interested in the yellow one but might wait it out. I also think the 'multicolore' business card holder is adorable.

11. Satellite Radio. This one I'll probably hold off as a birthday present (Feb. 1) since I most likely won't be driving my regular car this winter because of the weather. Pittsburgh has the worst radio stations in the country. I'm confident of that. I'm not tech savvy enough to mess around with anything beyond CDs. I'm not going to invest in any more than I already have. It's time for radio. Good radio.

12. Not Pictured: Viper Tool Chest. And the item that is at the very top of my actual Christmas list is not pictured above (note to self: learn to use a new platform other than Polyvore).

This beauty would lend itself perfectly to storing my makeup collection. It's pretty massive. If the majority of my stash doesn't fit, I'm seriously going to make some drastic cuts. I get excited just thinking about organizing everything. And yes, I am clinically insane. Fa la la la la la la la la!

Now Playing: "Count On Me" by Jefferson Starship
*A favorite.

Recently Purchased

It's been quite a while since I crafted a Recently Purchased post. I had to really pause and examine the things I've hunted and gathered over the past few months: booze, music, movies. And that's honestly about it. There wasn't much inspiration to share. I'm actually proud of myself for not hoarding collecting as much as usual. But alas, Christmas music is playing, catalogs and coupons have found its way into my life and before I know it, I'll be shopping 'til I drop all over again. Until that dark, fateful weekend in late November arrives, and the buying season officially kicks off, I'll pat myself on the back for having taken the less is more approach. It was cute while it lasted.

• BUSINESS CARDS: I've studied Tarot for many years and have decided to finally make a go at doing it semi-professionally as a bit of a side gig. I'm in no way, shape or form ready to charge people for my services but ordering business cards is pushing me towards that goal. I've always heard that I would make an excellent psychologist/counselor. I feel that this form of intuitive introspection will really allow me to help people.
• FAUX FUR VEST: I was a deer for Halloween. I figured I might as well incorporate a new piece of permanent wardrobe into my costume to justify the purchase. I've wanted an oversized faux fur vest for the past few seasons. I found a nice one that complements my hair very well and it was on sale. 
• CHANEL HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTER: I told myself I wasn't going to buy anything from the collection this year but this really illuminates the skin beautifully. I have quite a few Chanel highlighters in my stash; as expensive as they are, I must say it's not a terrible investment. They last forever. Who doesn't like a little glam in their beauty regimen?
• OPI GOING MY WAY OR NORWAY?: My nail polish collection is embarrassing. I have more bottles than a salon but I just couldn't pass up the OPI fall collection. I'm wearing this one right now. Beautiful neutral. I'm going to attempt a strict polish policy in 2015. No more than 15 bottles allowed and for every bottle purchased, I have to get rid of one I already own. That might sound extremely easy to a sane person but I'm an addict.
• NOT THAT KIND OF GIRL BY LENA DUNHAM: I've been a fan since seeing her movie Tiny Furniture a number of years ago. Brilliant young woman. Proud that my generation has her voice. She inspires me tremendously. Hilarious book. Highly recommend.

Now Playing: "Do You..." by Miguel
*Love this song! Love his music!

Recently Purchased

1. Kate Spade, Things We Love.
I bought this book as a gift to myself for my birthday and I'm so happy that I did. It's a charming read and will make for a beautiful piece of coffee table/bookshelf decor for many years to come. Most of the things the brand lists in their book is something that I also love.

2. Kate Spade Decorative Candles. "Escape The Ordinary" & "Light Up The Room".
I got a fantastic deal on these adorable pieces. I haven't burned them yet because they're just too pretty! When the wax is done these will make beautiful containers for pens or other odds and ends. Love them!

3. Orofluido.
I got a sample of this in a beauty box and was instantly drawn to its luxurious packaging and warm vanilla scent. It leaves my hair feeling great so I decided to purchase the full size with a gift card.

4. Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque.
The same thing happened with this product as the Orofluido. I received a sample in a beauty box and loved it. It hydrated my hair so wonderfully and left it feeling and smelling so rejuvenated. I don't like to spend a lot on hair care so I used a gift card on this as well.

5. Airline Ticket.
Booked my flight to Europe! I'm so looking forward to exploring new parts of the world and having a phenomenal time with the girls! England, Scotland, France, Netherlands & Belgium, here we come!

6. Too Faced Candy Rose Blush.
I bought this as a birthday/early Valentine's Day treat to myself. The packaging was just too cute to pass up. The product itself is also dynamite. Definitely recommend.

7. Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette.
My Mom got this for me for my birthday. The colors blend wonderfully and the palette is actually made from real chocolate so the scent is an extra bonus. I'm a sucker for creative packaging so I was really thrilled to get this into my collection. If Willy Wonka had a makeup line, this would be one of his best sellers.

8. Valentine's.
I love writing out little cards and making treat bags for my family, friends and coworkers. I miss the good old days when there was Valentine's Day parties at school. They were always so much fun. I'm perpetually single so I like to celebrate Valentine's Day as a chance to show my love for all of the people (and animals) in my life.

9. Stand-up Comedy Tickets. Chelsea Handler/Amy Schumer.
Two of my favorite comediennes! I'm so looking forward to reading Chelsea's new book and seeing her perform again (it's been a few years). Amy Schumer in March is also going to be a riot. I've never seen her live but from what I've previewed online, she's hilarious. It'll be a fun girl's night out for sure! Having drinks with friends and lots of laughter is one of my favorite ways to spend an evening!
















Now Playing: "Passage" by Exitmusic
*If you're not familiar with this song, click here.

Want, Need, Wear, Read

Want: Louis Vuitton. I've held back from making the investment in Louis for so many years because it seems every other girl you see at the mall is carrying the same bag. What good is luxury without individuality? But I can't deny the quality or timelessness of the brand. There's something to say for a company that's been around for centuries yet continues to use the same monogram. I happen to like the scheme of the monogram print and feel it would complement my wardrobe and coloring nicely. I really like the versatility of the Eva Clutch and also have my eye on the Josephine wallet in green. The scarves are also tempting.

Need: A new car. I should have gotten it by Spring but delays, delays. Fingers crossed. I've wanted the same car for nearly as long as I've had my license. They say good things come to those who wait and I hope to prove that. I'd rather have an older car that I love than a brand new one that will depreciate in value the second you drive it off the lot (and with identical models all over the roadways).

Wear: With the stifling heat and humidity at its peak in July, thankfully I have my trusty bun-a-ma-jig. That's a much better term than "doughnut" or "sock bun", don't you agree? I refuse to get my hair cut until Mercury retrograde ends (today!) and the cooler weather approaches. Until then, I'm so happy that buns are in style. It's a nice throwback to the days when women wore updos and dressed far more elegantly than us hot messes of the 21st century. Buns are easy, instantly make you look put together and best of all, keep you from going into heat exhaustion.

Read: Lily Dale: The True Story of the Town That Talks to the Dead by Christine Wicker. Ever since viewing the documentary No One Dies in Lily Dale, I've been entranced by all things Lily Dale. I'm making it a point to finally visit the tiny Spiritualist community this summer. I'm almost done with this book and I definitely recommend a read. It's a good perspective on the Dale. I really want to get a reading by Rev. Anne Gehman. Her energy speaks to me.










Now Playing: "Of the Mother Again" by Jim James

Want, Need, Wear, Read

Want: A vintage bar cart. More than anything, I just really want to get an apartment or better yet, a house! Must break free! When I do, this will be one of my first interior purchases. HRH Collection's bar cart is such an inspiration.

Need: A special birthday gift for my Mom! She's on the 21st. I'm going to try and find a few goodies during my break tomorrow. She loves fragrances but it would be nice to find something... else.

Wear: Sneaker Wedges. I know, I know... I've tried to stay away from these but they just make so little sense that they do? I'm positively sure this is a trend that I will look back on and laugh at and cringe but what can I say? They work for my work. Target has some cheapies that pass for the good stuff.

Read: ...Or should it be Write? Wreck This Journal. I came across this little book when I was browsing Urban Outfitters after seeing the movie Spring Breakers (save your enthusiasm for its Netflix release). I love an unusual journal style book (Listography is a favorite) so of course this one piqued my interest.












Now Watching: Coachella Live Stream (Yeah Yeah Yeahs)
*WAIT! They don't love you like I love you ;)

Want, Need, Wear, Read

Want: An iPhone... moreso, I just really want to have a better camera and get Instagram! I have to upload allllll my old photos and videos from my BlackBerry onto my computer before I can commit to a new device. I keep making excuses because it's going to take forever (if it even works) and be a hassle. I need to get this done!

Need: A new car! I can't even... Waiting to save a little bit more money, tax returns, etc... Praying to have new wheels by the time Summer comes. That's somewhat realistic. When I go to reflect back on the car I've been driving for the past couple years, I will have a lot of writing material. It's pretty embarrassing.

Wear: Lucky Brand Irving & Fine Embroidered Peasant Top. I pinned this about a month ago after seeing it in the March issue of Elle. The pin was really popular. I'm keeping an eye on it. Hopefully I can find it on sale because $149 seems way overpriced.

Read: I need to figure out how to upload to Polyvore because it never has books in its database. I'm looking forward to reading Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler. I'm so excited for The Great Gatsby to come out that I've been delving into all things Fitzgerald.

















Now Playing: "Wedding Song" by Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Want, Need, Wear, Read

Want: Denim & Supply Ralph Lauren American Flag Fringe Cardigan. I think this would be the perfect sweater to throw over a swimsuit on Memorial Day after the sun goes down. I can picture being wrapped with it around a bonfire on a cool Summer night. Love this classic piece.

Need: New sheets & bedding! I love the look and feel of hotel white. I prefer exta-soft cotton.

Wear: Hearts! Perfect for layering this Valentine's Day. I love them on lightweight jumpers or delicate earrings. Looks beautiful with Chanel Glossimer in 93 Paillettes- a beautiful pink shade.

Read: Vogue Weddings: Brides, Dresses, Designers. This is a gorgeous coffee table book. The timeless photographs are inspiring. I'm a lover of all things romantic and stylish so this is a favorite.


















Now Playing: "Cherry Blossoms" by Night Beds
*Gorgeous song!