Reading: 'The Small Bachelor' by P.G.Wodehouse

How have I not read any P.G.Wodehouse before now? Not only has he written almost 100 books and invented famous characters such as Jeeves, but his writing is pretty much the funniest, wittiest, British-y-est, um, ever! Seriously. He's been referenced in so many books that I've read that I finally decided to demystify this gentleman's text by picking up a copy of The Small Bachelor and I haven't been able to put it down very much since making that most excellent decision. 

The story takes place in New York during Prohibition but the emphasis isn't so much on plot as it is on creating brilliant characters who make you smile and even laugh and feel kind of good about the world, while still retaining your dignity. I've never laughed while reading in a coffee shop before, but this book caused me to do so multiple times. Some of the characters fall in love, rather quickly, and the way Wodehouse draws their emotions, actions, earnestness, mannerisms, etc. is just brilliant and completely delightful. Smart, witty, and comical in a warm-hearted way.

Basically, I can't wait to read the rest of his books!

Watching: The Artist

I finally watched The Artist and I have to say, I enjoyed it wholeheartedly! It felt like watching a good old classic film - heartwarming, textural, classy, smart, and completely absorbing.

There's something about black and white films...they are sort of comforting and I really feel like I've gone back in time when I watch them. 

Berenice Bejo is such a gorgeous lady! I loved her flapper clothes and wish I could wear them myself! She was very charming and magnetic in her role. Both of the lead actors were incredibly expressive and I felt for them. The sweetness of their romance is light and pure.

The music was also lovely. It's an orchestral score that makes the film feel more dynamic and alive. It also give extra weight to the moments of complete silence.

What a pleasure! I think I'll be watching this one again.

Mozart, the Rock Opera!

A couple of days ago I got the chance to see 'Mozart, the Rock Opera' at the beautiful Keimyung Art Center. I love going to shows - plays, musicals, concerts, operas, ballets, recitals, readings - all of these wonderful creative performances make me feel inspired and incredibly alive. I used to do quite a bit of theatre back in the day and I miss it terribly. Everyone needs an outlet I suppose.

Anywho, getting back to the show. The overall look, including costumes, sets, and lighting, was stunningly gorgeous, lavish, colourful, unique, and quite magical. The 1700s exploded with colour and modern boldness. Some bits reminded me of Cirque du Soleil. There was plenty of glitter and the richness and vibrancy of all the colours made my eyes pop. It was a treat visually.

Even though everything was in Korean (the original version is French), I could still follow the story. More importantly, the music was so fun and most of the songs were combined with creative choreography so I never felt lost or bored. Some of the singers were very talented and there were several goosebumps-worthy moments.

Of course it's quite fluffy but many fluffy things are awesome. This show was pure fun and I could easily watch it again and enjoy the visual spectacle and catchy songs. It's kind of like Moulin Rouge in that way - over the top and magnificent.

Now, what can I watch next?

Cafe Roma, Daegu - Cute Coffee Shop Review

Besides drinking tea, one of my absolute favourite things to do is go to cute coffee shops and while away the hours drinking something warm and tasty, and chatting with a friend. Yesterday I went to a recently renovated coffee shop just a minute's walk from my home. 

Name: Cafe Roma

Style: Casual elegance

Ambiance: Excellent. Great modern lighting, cute cups and dishes, instrumental + classical music, warm.

Service: Very good. It took a while to get our drinks, but when they were brought to our table they looked so lovely and the barista was very friendly and kind.

Good for: Couples, group meetings, studying.

Taste: My green tea latte was delicious and not overly sweet. The texture was foamy and perfect and I loved the cute little flowers. They also have cake and muffins and I will definitely try a muffin next time.

Time: My friend and I spent almost two and a half hours there and it would be easy to stay even longer than that - so cozy and comfy and warm :-) Don't forget to stretch your legs.

Stars: 4 out of 5 stars - one star taken off because the music was sometimes too loud, forcing everyone to talk loudly as if we were in a bar rather than a coffee shop. Although this added to the festivity and woke up the lady who had fallen asleep instead of reading her book. I wonder what she was reading.

I'm looking forward to going there again. Daegu has many independent coffee shops, and this one is now one of my favourites. I must say, all the cute + beautiful + atmospheric coffee shops here make the plain, generic ones in North America seem...um, really not good. Maybe I can avoid going to a chain coffee shop for the rest of my life (I probably can't)!!

Have a delicious day :-)