Brain Pickings

I have a true interest for learning about a variety of topics and just came across a place which seems to fit that interest: Brain Pickings. Creator Maria Popova explains, "Brain Pickings is a human-powered discovery engine for interestingness, a subjective lens on what matters in the world and why, bringing you things you didn’t know you were interested in — until you are."

Each Sunday you can be enlightened by a newsletter - check out an example here. You can also look through the Bookshelf to find something new to read. Or, you can follow (or just listen) to bits of interviews and unique pairs of readers and readings in Brainpicker's stream on SoundCloud. For example, Richard Burton reading John Donne, or Sylvia Plath reading her haunting poem, "A Birthday Present", or an interview with an artist or graphic designer on his or her design matters. You can also experience a daily pairing of song and literature in the Literary Jukebox. I am always looking for new music and the fact that it is paired with a quote from literature is a match made in heaven. Of course, you can follow on Twitter and like on Facebook, too.

If you are wanting more, take a look at the post that pulled me in: Big Questions from Little People. My favorite would be author Jeanette Winterson's answer to the question "How do we fall in love?" Go forth, lovers of learning, to Brain Pickings!

Skirt to Wear and Website to View

After bothering a co-worker/friend to teach me how to make the cool skirts she wore to work, I got the opportunity to do it this summer. The Sangria and Skirts Party was most definitely a success. I am thrilled with the result and thrilled that I actually made something I can wear. For more info on the pattern we used, visit Linda's website, Linda's Other Life. While visiting, take a look at her other fabulous creations as well as her reading, teaching, dining, and traveling life!