Archive for June, 2009
Morning Walk: Cement God
Plastic Goddess.
Available at the store – Elizabeth Rohloff hat, Sofia scarf.
Last night I had the distinct pleasure of attending an interview with Carlos Ruiz Zafon. He is the author of ‘The Shadow of the Wind’ (Der Schatten des Windes), which I read just before a trip to Barcelona. Not only is this one of the most compelling stories I read during the last few years, it is also written in a most beautiful language.
What made lat night’s event so memorable is mostly due to Carlos Zafon himself. He speaks very good English with this slight Spanish tinge - and he does it with ease, wit and compassion. The college professor (I forget his name), who interviewed him had good questions to which Zafon responded in at least twenty minute answers. A comment that stuck with me was the following: Zafon refuses to have any of his books made into a movie. He states that he has revised, edited and rewritten his stories at least a ‘million times’ and this is as good as it gets – there will be no movie version. If he had not before, I won me over right there and then. I love a book that sucks you in, transports you into its world and keeps a firm grip on you while reading. If I ever see the movie after reading the book, I am mostly disappointed. The images are not what I had in my head when I read the book. The story takes a different turn AND it is over WAY to quick. I prefer to have my own ‘movie set’ in my head.
The event was held in the Bagdad Theater, put on by Powell’s. I love the Bagdad, its darkness, its decorations, and I try to sit in the very first row to get the most of the presenter’s presence. Just like a good book. And of course, Powells! Zafon thinks this is the best bookstore in North America. I agree.
His new book ‘The Angel’s Game’ is now sitting at home. I can’t wait to crack it open!
Neighbor Frank
I think it is highly unlikely that Neighbor Frank is reading my blog – but if you do: Thank you so much for letting me pick flowers from your front yard.
Frank seeded his strip next to the sidewalk with wildflowers last year. He diligently watered them until they grew vigorously. And then he offered for me to pick them for my shop. This last winter we had this furious big freeze and lots of things died. Not the wildflowers! They came back more beautiful than last year. I am so lucky to be able to pick them again.
Now, I do not know whether Frank is a father. If he was a dad, I’d give him a pair of nice socks for Father’s Day. He seems like the person who would enjoy a pair of fun socks under his slacks.
These are the incredible SmartWools. While they almost look like ordinary dress socks, they have a hidden fun side to them! Check out the cuff and the sole! The very best part about SmartWools is the fact that they wick moisture, you will never sweat in them even in hot summer days. You can walk in them for hours without the danger of a blister! (this from a tourguide who walks all day long!)
These are cotton and plain fun on the outside. just imagine crossing your legs and getting a peek at those under your boring blue or black pants. I do not even want to go to the bermuda/shorts wearer who has NO style whatsoever wearing WHITE socks. That is an abslute no-no. A turn-off, guys. Do these instead.
I might juts get Frank a pair, father or not. He deserves it.
The Host of Hats
It is such a good fortune to have such good sports to support the store. I had invited ElizaBeth Rohloff for a trunkshow at my store, and as luck would have it, the weather did not cooperate at all. Downtown had lost power, it looked like the next storm was just around the corner and I assume that made people stay home. Oh well, we had fun anyway and downed the Mimosas ourselves.
That is why I say that I have such good sports in my life. My regulars turned out. My staunch supporters. I am so lucky to have them in my life! We had so much fun, it took me half the night to wind down from all the excitement. Happy chitter-chatter. Armloads of clothes to put away after. Hats to sort out. Photos to take and then post.
Well, here they are:
A HAT makes the LADY, don’t you think? My mother would agree.
