tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67129489777803067972024-03-06T07:41:27.944+13:00Nana Wintournanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.comBlogger1179125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-89849974069289468292020-01-19T20:00:00.001+13:002020-01-19T20:00:05.912+13:00An Ode to Fleabag<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-1ZFBptsA-2Pfetq8RAK-47EcMGpoGqM-yZ771YInhAl39sROxTWJOdWbNYhy0n1-GbefWbb_YhRNG-TJSrf2Bu6VpoOCRsjpKAfdGfWHnvgZ5oqbcTeUVN2_ll-SdAHt_L3Oa3uNhc0/s1600/fleabag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="1450" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-1ZFBptsA-2Pfetq8RAK-47EcMGpoGqM-yZ771YInhAl39sROxTWJOdWbNYhy0n1-GbefWbb_YhRNG-TJSrf2Bu6VpoOCRsjpKAfdGfWHnvgZ5oqbcTeUVN2_ll-SdAHt_L3Oa3uNhc0/s640/fleabag.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>This piece was originally published by <a href="http://severinelit.com/" target="_blank">Severine</a> in 2019.</i></div>
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She came onto my screen</div>
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A flurry of limbs and awkward sex</div>
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A navy coated, red lipped nymph.</div>
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The sister. The best friend.</div>
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The lost<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> The broken</span></div>
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The f r a g m e n t e d</div>
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We are all her</div>
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And</div>
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I really want to steal a gold headless statue someday.</div>
<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-42471934272867359212020-01-09T13:33:00.001+13:002020-01-09T13:33:04.102+13:00My Top 10 Reads of 2019<br />
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Hello, Happy Thursday! It's only taken me two weeks but I finally narrowed down my favourite reads of 2019 to ten titles. Considering I read over 90 books in 2019, this was no easy feat. These are all books I found myself thinking back on particularly fondly, and some I chose based on what I had written about them in my journal. The enthusiastic, lengthy ramblings? Clear indicator there. So in no particular order, my top ten reads of 2019. Note: These are not ranked-no need to overcomplicate things. Also, not all of these books were released in 2019 though a fair few of them were. Anyway, on with the books...</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-eve-s-hollywood--6?barcode=9781590178904&search_key=eve+babitz" target="_blank">Eve's Hollywood</a> x Eve Babitz: My introduction to Eve Babitz happened about this time last year actually. She writes of Summer and celebrity culture and growing up in Hollywood. Being young, the heat and haze that fills the LA year, life and youth being there before you. Her writing is nostalgic, without being sappy or overly sentimental. To read Eve Babitz is to luxuriate in her words.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/biography-memoir-lady-in-waiting-my-extraordinary-life-in-the-shadow-of-the-crown-princess-margaret--11?barcode=9781529359077&search_key=lady+in+waiting" target="_blank">Lady in Waiting</a>* x Anne Glenconner: I don't think I was expecting to love this book as much as I did. Though really it is no surprise. Princess Margaret? Check. Colourful, chaotic character-laden family? Check check. Lady Anne Glenconner has certainly led a far from ordinary life. In amongst the luxurious parties are familial struggles many of us may have experienced to some degree and I guess it serves as a timely reminder that all is never as it seems. This book is far from dreary though-it ripples with vibrancy and life. </div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/Saltwater" target="_blank">Saltwater</a> x Jessica Andrews: A measure of a good book, when I am willing to not return it to the library, thus being fined just so I don't have to give it back. Okay, I reluctantly returned it but the consideration was there. Saltwater is an exploration of life and how our upbringings shape us. It's also about the complicated, intricate relationships that can be the Mother and Daughter bond. It's lyrical, poetic and exquisitely written. </div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/spring-1" target="_blank">Spring</a> x Ali Smith: The seasonal quartet is drawing to a close and this may be my favourite of the three. I also read Winter this year. Spring speaks to the optimism of the season and a time where political tides may have turned. In fact, it's really hard to think about optimism when international politics seems so...messy. Discussion for another day. Spring is a story of film and migration, literature and loss. It also pays homage to our very own Katherine Mansfield. If you like reading novels that experiment and unfurl the traditional narrative, this is for you.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/biography-memoir-notes-to-self--8?barcode=9780241986226&search_key=Emilie+pine" target="_blank">Notes to Self</a> x Emilie Pine: This. Book. Though. It was a confronting read. I wept, I laughed and I also experienced the sheer brilliance of writing that is unflinchingly candid and doesn't hold back. Notes to Self blew me away, it knocked the air out of me and then had me frantically rushing to find paper and pen, writing out extracts that spoke to me. I doubt I will ever read a book quite like it again.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-daisy-jones-and-the-six--75?barcode=9781787462144&search_key=daisy+jones" target="_blank">Daisy Jones & the Six</a>* x Taylor Jenkins Reid: So this was one of my most anticipated novels for 2019 and it did not disappoint. Fictional, seventies band with major Fleetwood Mac vibes. A story that unfolded through a long form, magazine style interview. I loved it. Go give it a read now, it is perfect for Summer pool+beach reading.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-trick-mirror-reflections-on-self-delusion?barcode=9780008294939&search_key=trick+mirror" target="_blank">Trick Mirror</a> x Jia Tolentino: Jia Tolentino is a word goddess and I won't hear a word from anyone who says otherwise. See yourself <b>out</b>. All seriousness, I loved her debut collection of essays immensely. Yes it did give me serious writer envy but also it was so interesting and well written and cohesive. Sometimes I get nervous reading books with a lot of advanced praise, magazine write-ups etc but in the case of Trick Mirror, the hype was justified. If you haven't read this yet, add it to your Summer tbr now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3dwxy29xuflXJsJczkQSdeR2m27pMqicn30ieXSU_tjFdjmNCHtkXfnHx_kzRw7l-WhRyTbPIDP8CQj3cljuKbDdiO84HATD5BvtwYnfTqr7nV_PiplR-hooTAo1e-AdDqHNC7C_qOQ/s1600/book+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="1450" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3dwxy29xuflXJsJczkQSdeR2m27pMqicn30ieXSU_tjFdjmNCHtkXfnHx_kzRw7l-WhRyTbPIDP8CQj3cljuKbDdiO84HATD5BvtwYnfTqr7nV_PiplR-hooTAo1e-AdDqHNC7C_qOQ/s640/book+19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://wordery.com/florida-lauren-groff-9781786090461?cTrk=MTY3NzgzMTAzfDVlMTAwNTg1YjE5MTI6MTo4OjVlMTAwNTdlNmVjYzE4Ljg3ODE5NDEyOjE0Nzk2MTFj" target="_blank">Florida</a> x Lauren Groff: I love Groff's writing so much. It's deeply haunting, but in a beautiful way. I'm sorry, that sounds weird. Her stories usually are darker but they are done in such an evocative way. They are absolutely compelling to read. I love that they aren't all cutesy and perfect-there's something exciting in knowing that all is not going to be as it seems. I don't read a lot of short story collections, to be honest they aren't really my vibe. The fact I loved this one so much and still feel a pang of excitement when I see anybody else is reading it probably says it all. </div>
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<a href="https://wordery.com/the-importance-of-music-to-girls-lavinia-greenlaw-9780571332274?cTrk=MTY3NzgzMTI3fDVlMTAwNWI2NzNlM2E6MToxNTo1ZTEwMDU3ZTZlY2MxOC44NzgxOTQxMjoxZjljNWZiNQ%3D%3D" target="_blank">The Importance of Music to Girls</a> x Lavinia Greenlaw: I have to thank Jay for including this book in his January bundles over at YourShelf. It set my lifelong love for Lavinia Greenlaw into motion, having already been a fan of her poetry. This book is essentially a memoir told through music and memories. Read it. It is exquisite.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-the-handmaid-s-tale--22?barcode=9780099511663&search_key=Margaret+atwood" target="_blank">The Handmaid's Tale</a> x Margaret Atwood: Probably the last person in the world to have read The Handmaid's Tale, properly. After having multiple friends tell me to literally hurry up with both reading and watching it, I finally listened. Well, shock horror, I loved it. I mean, I love Margaret Atwood's writing a lot but I can see why this book is so beloved. The fact it is all so fortuitous in a rather disturbing way. The journey Offred goes on and the way it is so addictive. Cue many a late night and a bit of sighing when my train arrived at its destinations faster than it should have, thus interrupting my reading. I will definitely be rereading this, I loved it.</div>
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-What did you read and like in 2019?</div>
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<i>*Review Copy</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-42352732348408688312020-01-01T14:27:00.000+13:002020-01-01T14:27:50.340+13:002019 in Review: 19 Good Things<br />
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2019, where did that even go!? "Where did you just go then?" as Hot Priest would say on Fleabag. Ahh, Fleabag-love of my life. Sorry, distracted one sentence in. I wanted to add as a bit of a precursor to this blog post that 2019 has been, an experience. I am not going to lie, reading back through my 2019 journal for this blog post was a bit hard. There were some painful moments there. But that's okay. They happened. There was also some good, as you will soon see. More than anything this year I am grateful. I hope that gratitude was felt by those I surrounded myself with. I really wanted to 'treat people with kindness'* as much as possible this year but more so myself. Admittedly the latter may have slid in the earlier part of the year but to be honest, I think in 2019 I was a lot nicer to myself. I was less self critical. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't always easy. I'd open up social media some days and get really irritated that I wasn't ticking off the same digital milestones as everyone else. The irony being, I don't necessarily <i>want</i> some of those things. I chased after things that were never going to happen because I am a starstruck optimist sometimes. Maybe one day I will tell that story but for now, that can stay between myself and the pages of my diary. And that's okay. Lessons were learnt there. </div>
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One thing, forget those "what I achieved in a decade posts". Or at the very least, take them with a pinch of salt. I think it's a poignant reminder as we enter a new decade to remember, nobody else is <i>that</i> affixed on where you are at in this game we call life. Everybody else is on their own paths. Be gentler to yourself, you are doing amazing. Perhaps more so than you think. Same to you, future Sophie reading this. You done good. </div>
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Anyway, 19 good things from '19 incoming...</div>
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<b>Those Su-uh-uh-mer Days: </b>At the beginning of 2019 I was unemployed after leaving my job at the end of 2018. Do not get me wrong, that was <i>not</i> a fun time. What was fun though was the days at the beginning of the Summer. Drinking copious amounts of bubbles, sharing cracker and cheese platters with L. Reading books on her sun loungers. Pages morphing in the heat, words blurring into a welcoming haze. Blissful af. </div>
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<b>Self Critique, Gonezo? </b>Do not get me wrong, I am still incredibly self critical. To be honest, I don't think that's easily shaken. That being said, I found myself becoming a lot better at the old self perspective thing. I can't think of specific examples but I was able to 'check' myself a lot better than I have in the past if that makes sense. Without letting self-loathing rear its ugly head <i>as</i> strongly. Of course I still have my insecurities but yeah, I feel like I am getting a bit better at managing that side of things. </div>
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<b>High As Hope in Auckland: </b>Ahh my beloved Florence and the Machine graced us in January for one night only. And it was spectacular. I cried, I saw glitter whenever I looked up and in the air around me. There was hugging, proclamations of love and it was all incredibly wholesome and inviting. Experiencing it with E again, our second time seeing Florence together was so special as well. </div>
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<b>I Started A New Job: </b>I began my new+current job midway through February this year and after many a frustration during the whole job seeking process, it was such a relief. And now I feel, awkward writing about my job, should anyone from work finds this. But yeah, I got a new job. Yay me!? Haha idk.</div>
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<b>Between Two Books: </b>2019 was the year of Florence Welch. Thanks Flo for indirectly bringing two of the best fans and literary enthusiasts into my life, that would be you J and L. Anyway, something cool I got to do was <a href="https://www.stylist.co.uk/fashion/style-list/book-club-recommendations-florence-welch/260394" target="_blank">share</a> a book recommendation along with other members of the Between Two Books Community. It was so lovely to be asked and I chose Eve's Hollywood x Eve Babitz. More on that book soon though.</div>
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<b>Duck Island: </b>Can I do a post about 2019 without mentioning Duck Island icecream? Probably not. They opened their first stores in Auckland this year and blessed be the icecream enthusiasts. No really. Fairy bread, lolly log, peppermint slice, sorbets for days-dang it now I want to go out for a drive just to get some. Anyway, thanks to the friends who tolerated my Duck Island outings, even in the midst of Winter. You are legends. Blessed legends, but legends nonetheless.</div>
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<b>Quiz Nights: </b>This year I stayed out LATE omg. Friends who know me will know I am often in bed by 9.30. That's not an exaggeration, this is an unusual night. Anyway I digress. This year I joined a quiz team and go most weeks with them to the Bluestone Room for quiz night. It is a fun time. I am terrible at sports still, but my geography seems to be improving. S, that is your influence entirely. And I am always there for the pop culture, song lyrics and literature. I love it.</div>
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<b>Fleabag</b>: I couldn't do a post about 2019 without mentioning Fleabag. I actually found the diary entry where I wrote "I must watch Fleabag, immediately." That was probably after I listened to Phoebe Waller-Bridge on Elizabeth Day's podcast again for the umpteenth time. Well thank god I did. I love Fleabag in all her messy yet relatable glory. Bring on Fleabag Live in Cinema in March 2020.</div>
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<b>Counter Journal x2: </b>Probably one of the highlights of 2019 was having my stories commissioned and then published by Zack+Bonnie in local publication, <a href="https://www.counterjournal.co.nz/" target="_blank">Counter Journal</a>. It was so exciting to see my words and work as part of a beautiful magazine but also to be able to walk into Unity Books and just be like "oh hey, I have a story in there." L, thank you for all the encouragement and support but especially for convincing me that I could do it, when I was so convinced that I couldn't. </div>
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<b>Musicals Are Life: </b>To know me is to know I love musicals. A lot. So this year I managed to see quite a few: Legally Blonde, School of Rock, American Idiot, Les Miserables, oh-and Once! Knew I forgot something. My favourites were probably Legally Blonde and American Idiot for the nostalgic purposes.</div>
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<b>England to NZ: </b>Another major highlight of the year was having some of our family friends, and my honorary siblings from Essex come to NZ for the first time. The two weeks we had with L, G and E were the BEST. Please come back soon ladies. Though better yet, New York 2020 #iwish #mustwinlottolol. </div>
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<b>A bit of Poetry: </b>After years of convincing myself I could <i>not</i> write poetry, I discovered that while I am no Hera Lindsay Bird (I WISH), I actually enjoy writing poetry. And it's definitely something I want to explore more in 2020 and get more, personal with. I enjoy writing about other things but my own life, not so much and I want to get out of my comfort zone there. </div>
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<b>Severance Lit: </b>Another cool place I got to have my work published, poetry no less was this lovely site. Created by Terri-Jane Dow, one of the loveliest people on and off the internet. <a href="https://severinelit.com/author/nanawintour/" target="_blank">My work</a> is here but go read all the other brilliant words on there too. </div>
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<b>Harry+Lana+Vampire Weekend+HAIM: </b>And Taylor Swift! Sorry Taylor...There was a lotta new music in '19. I have to give particular thanks to Harry Styles and Lana Del Rey. Their new albums this year have more often than not been the tonic and on high rotation on my playlists. Well when I am not playing Rocketman's soundtrack on repeat again. </div>
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<b>You did your best, and that's enough: </b>If I noticed one phrase throughout my journal more than any other, it was this. Maybe some people think this notion is a terrible one. Though I guess it goes with the self critique pointer from above. I'm learning to be more content with my achievements and efforts, and subsequently less critical when things maybe don't work out. Again, this is a never-ending work in progress but dissatisfaction is so exhausting and unfair on ourselves. As Nigel says in 'The Devil Wears Prada', nobody is going to pat you on the back and give you a gold star for a job well done. If there's one thing I have learnt this year, we have to give <i>ourselves</i> the praise and self-respect we deserve.</div>
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<b>Flower Markets: </b>Well not strictly flower markets per se but Saturday mornings strolling the small town markets, buying cheap blooms and having some of nature's beauty on display for a week. Sometimes longer, it's amazing the mileage you can get out of some flowers if you actually water them. Sorry I am such a luddite haha. All seriousness, weekend trips to the markets for flowers and fruit and coffee-good time.</div>
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<b>I read, a lot: </b>SUCH a surprise. Ahem. Not really. According to Goodreads, I read 91 books. Poetry, plays, novels, memoirs, essays, short stories, even a graphic novel. I read more widely this year and yes there was a bit of re-reading but I like to do that every now and again. More on what I read soon!</div>
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<b>Times Are Changin': </b>Next year (2021), Nana Wintour turns TEN. What the actual!? And to be honest, this corner is well due a facelift and even a name change. Yep, a name change. Nana Wintour no longer feels like my alter-ego but more like a shadow of someone I used to know. And to be honest I think that is why I posted on this corner less in 2019 than I have in a long time. I felt lost. A digital existential crisis if you will. But I see change on the horizon and I am hoping it is the blogging breath of fresh air I need.</div>
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<i>Happy New Year!! Here's to 2020. Broaden your horizons, make things happen, surround yourselves with love and kindness. Have a good one. xx</i></div>
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<i>*Thanks Harry Styles, you gem.</i></div>
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nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-33345635532240838212019-12-14T08:30:00.000+13:002019-12-14T08:30:21.471+13:00The Bookish Gift Guide '19<br />
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It's eleven days until Christmas! Work is starting to wind down, Summer/Winter are setting in, we get all nostalgic and we take time to be with our nearest and dearest. I know Christmas shopping can be <b>stressful</b> and books in particular can sometimes be a bit of a tricky thing to gift. My advice, find out what they have read and enjoyed this year-that is usually quite a good starting point. That or pick the brains of the lovely booksellers in your community. I have to give a shout out to Unity Books and Time Out here in Auckland because they are packed with friendly, well-read folk who know their stuff and are yet to recommend a dud, for myself or others. Today though, <i>I </i>will be doing the recommendations. I've tried to mix it up so there's a bit of all I love but also books I have read and gifted throughout the year. Many of these are books I have read during 2019 and enjoyed too. So if you want some reading recs, keep reading. Wow Sophie, so eloquent. Anyway...</div>
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<b>Poetry: </b>Validate Me x Charly Cox. One for the millennials, those who may be feeling a bit wary of the current state of the world (2019-what the heck) or just want a book that resonates. I particularly loved Charly's writing about her friendship with Elizabeth Day. So good. Other poetry volumes I rate for gifting; <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/nz-poetry-hera-lindsay-bird?barcode=9781776560714&search_key=hera+lindsay" target="_blank">Hera</a>, <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/nz-poetry-poukahangatus?barcode=9781776561926&search_key=tayi" target="_blank">Tayi</a>, <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/poetry-the-built-moment--2?barcode=9780571347100&search_key=Lavinia+greenlaw" target="_blank">Lavinia</a>'s brilliance.</div>
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<b>Good Vibes: </b>I guess I really mean books that are just a delight to read and immerse oneself in. The one book I think of time and again for this is <a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/biography-and-true-stories/Memoirs/everything-i-know-about-love-1" target="_blank">Everything I Know About Love</a> x Dolly Alderton. This is honestly such a beautiful book and Dolly is totally worthy of her modern-day Nora Ephron comparisons. </div>
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<b>The Cool Girl: </b>Not the Amy Dunne level, props if you get that reference. For the babe in your life who maybe likes a book that is like a breath of fresh air. That evokes feelings of another time and place; beautiful imagery. A book that is thought-provoking as much as nostalgic. So first up we have <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-i-used-to-be-charming-the-rest-of-eve-babitz?barcode=9781681373799&search_key=eve+babitz" target="_blank">I Used To Be Charming</a> x Eve Babitz. One of my favourite discoveries of 2019 has been the work of Eve Babitz. This latest volume is a collation of her work for various publications as well as previously unpublished work. I describe her as the anti-Didion, but in a good way. <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-trick-mirror-reflections-on-self-delusion?barcode=9780008294939&search_key=trick+mirror" target="_blank">Trick Mirror</a> x Jia Tolentino. One of the New Yorker's brightest stars at present. She writes in a wonderful, nuanced way on everything from reality TV, to the decision to marry (or not), self preservation and more.</div>
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<b>Royal Readers: </b>Maybe they've immersed themselves in Season 3 of The Crown and demand more. <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/biography-memoir-lady-in-waiting-my-extraordinary-life-in-the-shadow-of-the-crown-princess-margaret--11?barcode=9781529359077&search_key=lady+in+waiting" target="_blank">Lady in Waiting</a>* x Anne Glenconner is one of the best books I have read this year and one of the best royal-themed biographies. Lady Glenconner was part of Princess Margaret's inner circle and was married to Colin Tennant, aristocrat and the man responsible for turning Mustique into an idyllic getaway. She writes candidly and brilliantly, with humour and charm+fantastic insight into a life well lived. </div>
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<b>Love: </b>That which is valued above all things. This year I read One Day x David Nicholls and loved it so I am really looking forward to reading his latest, <a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/sweet-sorrow" target="_blank">Sweet Sorrow</a>. If she loved One Day and maybe was a John Green fan once upon a time, this is bound to go down a treat. </div>
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<b>Music: </b>A book I am sure is going to be on many a Christmas list is <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/music-me-elton-john-official-autobiography-hb--7?barcode=9781509853311&search_key=elton+john" target="_blank">Me</a> x Elton John. I don't have my copy here because one of my friends is borrowing it currently but I <b>loved</b> this book. So many brilliant stories and tales from a life that is anything but ordinary. John's co-writer did a fantastic job here. Another music book that would make a stunning Christmas gift, <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/music-just-kids-illustrated-hb?barcode=9781526615008&search_key=patti+smith" target="_blank">this</a> exquisite illustrated edition of Just Kids* x Patti Smith. It is gorgeously presented in this larger format and is accompanied by images and illustrations from both Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe. </div>
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<b>A Yourshelf Bundle: </b>Kinda biased here as Jay is a good friend of mine but <a href="https://www.yourshelf.uk/book-bundles" target="_blank">his</a> specially curated book bundles are a treat to receive. They are carefully selected and he always includes editions that are beautiful and more often than not, one of a kind. </div>
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<b>Shop Local: </b>You may see throughout this post I have linked to Time Out and Unity. Auckland is also home to some great secondhand bookstores and The Women's Bookshop on Ponsonby Rd. Remember to smile and thank them for their time-I can only imagine how stressful this time of year can be for booksellers!</div>
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-What books would you gift this Christmas?</div>
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<i>*Review Copy</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-46591695444319904002019-11-25T20:25:00.000+13:002019-11-25T20:25:51.014+13:00The Summer TBR: Part One<br />
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Hey, hi! It's been a hot minute, has it not? I have no real explanation other than "life" but enough of that. Today I thought I'd share some new books to my shelves that will be going down a treat this Summer. Whether that be poolside, under a shady tree in the sun or maybe first thing in the morning, with the windows wide open and the breeze cascading through. <i>Bliss. </i>This is a two-parter because as you all well and truly know by now, I read a lot. There's short stories, essays and even a hot girl Summer accessory of choice. Keep reading...</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-grand-union--8?barcode=9780241337035&search_key=Zadie+smith" target="_blank">Grand Union</a>* x Zadie Smith: Ok, first and foremost-why did nobody tell me Zadie Smith <b>and</b> Jia Tolentino were in conversation in Melbourne this month? Not cool guys. FOMO and secondhand regrets aside, luckily for us Zadie has dropped her first short story collection. It's been a while since I read some Zadie fiction, having recently read her essays across various titles. I am really looking forward to reading and luxuriating in its pages over Summer.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-i-used-to-be-charming-the-rest-of-eve-babitz?barcode=9781681373799&search_key=eve+babitz" target="_blank">I Used To Be Charming</a> x Eve Babitz: Ah, Eve Babitz. How I love thee. This latest collection ties together more of her nonfiction work. There's essays about posing for that infamous Julian Wasser photo and the titular essay about the tragic accident that led to her retreat from the spotlight. And everything in between. Hollywood. Eve's muses. Her circle. Art. Life. I am saving this to read when I have finished some other nonfiction books I have on loan/my review pile but I will keep you posted.</div>
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<a href="https://vup.victoria.ac.nz/sport-47/" target="_blank">Sport</a>, Issue 47: The 'hot girl Summer' literary staple of 2019. Sport, a compilation of writing from some of New Zealand's brightest voices. This volume is guest edited and curated by Tayi Tibble. I have only read her fantastic opener, check that out <a href="https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2019/11/21/909890/the-dark-force-is-me-the-confessions-of-tayi-tibble#" target="_blank">here</a> but I am looking forward to reading more of this volume. Especially Joy Holley's work but also Rebecca Hawkes and Freya Daly Sadgrove. Another I am saving for the Summer season. </div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/reference-travel-and-sport/essays-and-letters/little-weirds-essays" target="_blank">Little Weirds</a> x Jenny Slate: I have to give thanks to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jayzaff/" target="_blank">Jay</a> for recommending this to me and while I am most familiar with Jenny from her role as Mona Saperstein on Parks+Rec, I have to say this book has me really excited. I have only started this one today but it's lyrical and exquisite. Definitely don't pass it by.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-whose-story-is-this-old-conflicts-new-chapters?barcode=9781783785438&search_key=Rebecca+solnit" target="_blank">Whose Story Is This</a>* x Rebecca Solnit: I also love me some Solnit. Her essays never bore me and are always topical but with a sense of timelessness to them. I still think about an essay about Trump as the classic fairytale villain from her last essay volume quite often. So suffice to say I am really looking forward to getting into this soon as well.</div>
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-What are you looking forward to reading over Summer?</div>
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<i>*Review Copy</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-26950926268473359592019-11-13T10:00:00.000+13:002019-11-13T10:00:06.966+13:00Five Things: November<br />
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Hey, hi. It's November. WTAF. No really. Today in keeping with tradition and my excellent timeliness*, we have five things for November. Music, TV, Christmas, Literature. All that good <u>stuff</u>. </div>
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<b>The Crown, S3: </b>Given I have been rather excitedly counting down to November 17th for a while now, this day could not be coming fast enough. Season Three of The Crown features a new cast, including <strike>godmother</strike> Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth and Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret. The latter may be my favourite casting choice of late, okay-it is, it really is. If the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLXYfgpqb8A" target="_blank">trailer</a> is anything to go by, S3 looks set to be fantastical and fascinating. Please excuse me while I go put some sparkling wine into the fridge and dust off my finest tiara. Okay, let's be real it's a flower crown. Leave me alone.</div>
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<b>Lana and Elton:</b> In one of my favourite unexpected pairings, these music legends met and bantered for Rolling Stone magazine. I know, quite literally hold me closer tiny dancer. the resulting discussion is brilliant. The love and admiration they have for one another is beautiful. Give it a read <a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/elton-john-lana-del-rey-musicians-on-musicians-cover-902354/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<b>Severine: </b>The lovely Terri-Jane, one of the brilliant ladies formerly of Oh Comely, set up this fabulous literary journal. it's an inspiring, creative hive of voices. Of books and poetry and stories. I am still so excited that <a href="https://severinelit.com/2019/10/29/three-poems-by-sophie-putze/" target="_blank">three</a> of my poems were published there. 'An Ode to Fleabag' is my personal favourite but I also have a poem in honour of Florence's album 'Lungs' and another inspired by the word 'Golden'. Check out the site in all its glory <a href="https://severinelit.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<b>Phoebe Waller-Bridge-all day, every day: </b>Anna Wintour <i>only</i> went and put PWB on the cover of December Vogue. Cue me being all heart eyed cat+twinkly star emoji**. Brilliant <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=11&ved=2ahUKEwir5vWyneTlAhVZbn0KHaQ-D9gQFjAKegQIARAB&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vogue.com%2Farticle%2Fphoebe-waller-bridge-cover-december-2019&usg=AOvVaw1PQ38-p8VcfSgrDfLHTCGg" target="_blank">interview</a> and editorial. Cannot wait to see it IRL. And secondly, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/nov/09/phoebe-waller-bridge-alternative-ending-fleabag" target="_blank">the extensive Q&A</a> The Guardian published over the weekend. When quizzed x Olivia Colman regarding alternative careers, Phoebe quipped she'd be Olivia's overbearing assistant. Same Phoebe, same. Read both, they demand your attention.</div>
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<b>Happy Holidays (almost, not really): </b>Ok, my fave time of the year is approaching. So I thought I'd share some links to festive bits I am loving. Just a lil' quick fire round for you. First up, <a href="https://www.smithandcaugheys.co.nz/shop/brands/jo-malone-london/gift-giving/english-pear-freesia-cologne--limited-edition" target="_blank">this</a> English Pear & Freesia cologne x Jo Malone London. Dreamy scent, dreamy navy and gold. Yes please. Next, <a href="https://www.bedbathntable.co.nz/gift/xmas/lu-wooden-reindeer-head-dec-natural-silver-20171401" target="_blank">this</a> cute reindeer decoration from Bed Bath N Table. Side note, they have stunning, inexpensive decorations. And last but by no means least, <a href="https://www.kikki-k.com/nz/christmas/cards-wrap-and-trim/printed-paper-tape-4pk-luxe-multi-christmas-11501701.html?cgid=gifts-cards_wrap_trim#start=22" target="_blank">this</a> cute festive tape for all your decorative+wrapping bits from Kikki K. I love it.</div>
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<i>*deepest sarcasm</i></div>
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<i>**used and abused for days</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-77809758019503814922019-11-12T09:00:00.000+13:002019-11-12T09:00:12.822+13:00The Kmart Haul<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2HvzvGqjs74m6wblYSkqiEay4DofIwBHA6x-cX4CR3RiMHDceQMFCj6Gu-hS3NcJ_WyunT68csPv_RPWUwN19CuMWRAIZrw22Xn5IS3Mjrz9xRxY9CwejhdCPw1rrd3s1W3qErTwE5c/s1600/kmart+overview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2HvzvGqjs74m6wblYSkqiEay4DofIwBHA6x-cX4CR3RiMHDceQMFCj6Gu-hS3NcJ_WyunT68csPv_RPWUwN19CuMWRAIZrw22Xn5IS3Mjrz9xRxY9CwejhdCPw1rrd3s1W3qErTwE5c/s640/kmart+overview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hello and welcome to a post which feels really, really old school. A haul. Kmart is one of those places where you walk in with one purchase in mind, or maybe more and then you somehow get swayed by their absolutely enticing, beautiful, affordable things. I am not the only one, there are whole Buzzfeed posts devoted to this. And if it's on Buzzfeed, it is obviously official. I am sure if you are from Australia and New Zealand, you will know the pull of Kmart. With the holiday season coming up, it's a great place to find things for DIY's, as you will see and also cheap and cheerful gift ideas. Anyway, here is what I have acquired from Kmart recently. Apologies not everything I have here is linked on the website...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmLwVKpnZxVqKRXabk1o_BT-AWCFwn-TC-Flpc-E9GKGR5TQ7Im-HBiGwBEe0Rfrj-7v5mRxsx8dTmTZwJLJNMprpNfJ6czwlXCs-B1xD9nA0GWG4dgs-NmTw7XxzS4k9MvKAdQxn5xs/s1600/kmart+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmLwVKpnZxVqKRXabk1o_BT-AWCFwn-TC-Flpc-E9GKGR5TQ7Im-HBiGwBEe0Rfrj-7v5mRxsx8dTmTZwJLJNMprpNfJ6czwlXCs-B1xD9nA0GWG4dgs-NmTw7XxzS4k9MvKAdQxn5xs/s640/kmart+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Draw String Bags+Tassel Trim: I think Anko is like Kmart's own brand for a lot of their stationery bits and pieces. They have some very on trend, wallet friendly pieces. From memory these bags were only a couple of dollars. I got them to use to house some of the Advent Calendar bits. The tassel trim is also for the Advent Calendar, I want to use it to tie gifts up. It may not work but we shall see.</div>
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<a href="https://www.kmart.co.nz/product/a5-journal---protea/2132807" target="_blank">Protea Journal</a>: Oh hey, another journal shock horror haha. All seriousness. I LOVE the protea themed things at Kmart. Just taketh my money okay. It may end up being a part of someone else's Christmas gift. We shall see but I had to include it.</div>
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Botanic Parcel Tags: I got these to use as labels/placeholders for the Advent Calendar days. There's 30 in this set so I will have a couple left over. I was feeling the natural/Scandi/minimalist vibe this year. I mean there will undoubtedly be glitter elements in here somewhere because I can't go totally minimalism on y'all but yeah. That was the vibe I felt this year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbq2ay-FlRDQb2_W5xWsPQRzGBenU_kbaTh3umkmiqzq1o8wg-n2ByB9OV6MA6pANfNpSyO6UIKFpmzgTEXqNt44AQb894cBTKneC_tAaEnKgEswzDebqqCL0PRfF7UefUTpoSj5Ig9R8/s1600/kmart2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbq2ay-FlRDQb2_W5xWsPQRzGBenU_kbaTh3umkmiqzq1o8wg-n2ByB9OV6MA6pANfNpSyO6UIKFpmzgTEXqNt44AQb894cBTKneC_tAaEnKgEswzDebqqCL0PRfF7UefUTpoSj5Ig9R8/s640/kmart2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.kmart.co.nz/product/6-pack-magnets/2563809" target="_blank">Magnets</a>: SO cute! And y'know, who doesn't need magnets for their fridge? I like the patterns on these ones. Again, another thing that may end up as a Christmas gift but I think they'd make such an adorable stocking stuffer. Not that I am biased or anything. Ahem...</div>
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<a href="https://www.kmart.co.nz/product/sticker-book/2713829" target="_blank">Sticker Book</a>: Since I got back into journalling in general, I have really got back on the sticker vibe. I mean, don't get me wrong. I have always been a sticker girl. Anyway, this book is super cute. There's gift labels, alphabet letters, motivational messages, bullet journal headers and the like. It's so versatile. I picked one of these up for a friend of mine as well because I thought she'd love them.</div>
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<a href="https://www.kmart.co.nz/product/iphone-6-plus-6s-plus-7-plus-8-plus-protea-case/2502334" target="_blank">Protea Case</a>: My current phone case of choice because in case you can't tell, I like proteas. I don't know what else to tell you. It's a phone case. It protects and decorates my phone. End of.</div>
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Foil Alphabet Stickers: So I got these for my Advent Calendar, the other side of the packet contains numbered stickers...*hopefully* I will have enough and while they aren't exactly what I wanted-they will do the job.</div>
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<i>-What have you hauled from Kmart recently?</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-10524018210730080662019-11-10T13:05:00.001+13:002019-11-10T13:05:41.858+13:00October Wrap Up<br />
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Hello! and Happy November slash Sunday. I have a list of blog things I want to write, for once, I know. No really-i have even gone back to my circa 2013 thing of writing things by hand first. Anyway, I digress. Before we get into the swing of newness, it's time to reflect on last month. October was good-if not a tad messy at times. I guess the main takeaway there was, things happen outside our control and it is what it is. Anyway, October wrap up is below, after the ellipses...</div>
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<b>Five Things Loved</b></div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-saltwater--4?barcode=9781473682788&search_key=saltwater" target="_blank">Saltwater</a> x Jessica Andrews: What a book. I very reluctantly returned this to the library after finishing it which probably says it all. I didn't want to give it back in other words. Saltwater is a dreamy debut. It's moving, complex and deeply examines and untwists the mother-daughter relationship. Not only that, but the way in which our histories and what happens to us growing up shapes us. It's done in a very lyrical, poetic way and I loved that about it. It also gave me Jacqueline Wilson vibes as well, in the <b>best</b> kind of way. Saltwater is definitely one of the best debuts I have read in a long time.</div>
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Moulin Rouge on Broadway: Have I magicked myself to New York? Ha, I WISH. So I loved and still love Moulin Rouge, the film. Anyway, when I heard it was a musical part of me was like "oh no". I needn't have worried, if the cast recording is anything to go by because oh my god it is good. No really. I have kinda obsessively been listening to it for most of October and even now. My favourite tracks are: Shut Up & Raise Your Glass, Nature Boy (it's so simple and pared back and ugh LOVE), Crazy Rolling, Elephant Love Medley. Royals x Lorde even makes an appearance in there too. It is a good time. </div>
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Bullet Journalling: I used to do a loose-ish bullet journal maybe a year or so back and I decided to reinstate it because it works well for me. To put it really loosely, I am one of those people who likes to 'see' and plan on paper, not a screen. I have never been an iCal kind of person. I know, luddite-ish of me but eh. I am who I am. I use <a href="https://www.kikki-k.com/nz/journals/grid-journals/grid-journal-she-shines-11226301.html?cgid=journals-grid_journals#start=1" target="_blank">this</a> journal from Kikki K's 'She Shines' collection and I love it. I use it to log what I read, blog post ideas, non-blog story ideas, track Christmas shopping and a myriad of other things. I don't take it too seriously, you won't see any of those beautiful illustrations and intricate lettering but I find it effective and it works well for me. </div>
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Niaski: Props to Claire from <a href="https://www.madamefancypants.com/" target="_blank">Madame Fancy Pants</a> for bringing Niaski to my attention. Nia is an illustrator based in Devon and she creates work of cats posing as her favourite artists, aptly inspired by her own cats. So basically this is my dream. Cats and artists and cat themed pun-names, I mean Salvador Catli anybody (see below). I grabbed some bits from Madame Fancy Pants in October, the calendars are sold out now I think eek so glad I acted quickly but you can still grab <a href="https://www.madamefancypants.com/collections/niaski/products/meowtonjohnenamelpin?variant=30453527019613" target="_blank">this</a> pin which I also got. As you can imagine I am incredibly modest and don't point it out to anyone whenever it is worn. That is an official lie, Meowton John deserves to be seen. Anyway, if cats and artists are your jam like they are mine, get amongst. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-trick-mirror-reflections-on-self-delusion?barcode=9780008294939&search_key=trick+mirro" target="_blank">Trick Mirror</a> x Jia Tolentino: This. Book. I tried and failed to do it justice at my book club so I will try again here. To paraphrase a conversation I had with someone else, Jia Tolentino has an unbelievably brilliant knack for combining ideas and references into an essay that perhaps we wouldn't typically think to place alongside one another. It never feels forced or too theoretical and dry, thank goodness. This is easily another of my favourite reads of 2019. I particularly loved the introductory essay, The 'I' in Internet but also her essays about women in literature, Internet scammers (Fyre Fest et al.), her musings on marriage; whether to pursue it or not. To be honest the whole book is brilliant. Well worth adding to your Christmas lists.</div>
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American Idiot, the musical: So once upon a time, teenaged Sophie used to listen to and love American Idiot x Green Day. I had the CD and it was definitely on my iPod Mini (I know, SO retro lol). Anyway, when I heard the musical was coming to Auckland I was kinda uncertain about seeing it. It wasn't until I saw friends and peers online raving about it that my curiosity was amplified. Anyway long story short, it was AMAZING. Was it the best piece of theatre I've ever seen? Not necessarily but the whole experience and the way that album translates to a stage show is just....exquisite. It even made me a bit teary eyed at the magnificence. So good. </div>
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GSD: Aka 'the one where Sophie gets shit done', admittedly with a little bit of help from my friends but anyway. I dunno, I don't really want to go into the finer details but I managed to knock out some pretty big things this month-some I'd been subconsciously avoiding, others I had just been meaning to do but hadn't felt confident enough to for whatever reason. And it felt. <i>good</i>. It's awesome seeing goals you have slowly but surely coming to fruition. </div>
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Advent Calendar 2.0: You may remember I <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2018/12/the-diy-advent-calendar.html" target="_blank">made an Advent Calendar</a> last year for one of my friends. I enjoyed it so much that I knew it was going to be happening again. During October I more or less finalised the entire thing, I think I started working on it in March(!!). Anyway, I am so excited to put it together and show you the process+elements in the next month or so. I feel like I have upped the ante, but in a good way,</div>
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Dog Parks: Bit of a random inclusion, sure, but I have loved taking our family dog to some of Auckland's dog parks. Even if she does decide it's prime opportunity to go swimming. I mean, if she's enjoying herself I can't complain. Plus, I get to see <i>all</i> the dogs and that just makes my heart happy. Such a good time. Myself+the dog rate the Onehunga Bay Reserve in particular but the dog park at the Auckland Botanical Gardens is also worth a visit and is always very busy.</div>
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Reading in the Sun: Ok, so I am referring to one specific moment of this, over the long weekend. Summer finally felt like a 'legitimate' thing and not just an urban myth. I whipped out the round towel, some strawberries, water (sadly no bubbles in the fridge lol but anyway), and books. And I read. Did I get a bit sunburnt? Kinda, the perks of being pale+overly optimistic about UV Rays. It was bliss though and I am looking forward to doing more of it over the Summer months. </div>
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<b>Read in October</b></div>
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I read eight books (or thereabouts) during October but seeing as this post was already getting book heavy, I am going to endeavour to keep it short and sweet. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/nz-poetry-lost-and-somewhere-else--2?barcode=9781776562862&search_key=Jenny+bornholdt" target="_blank">Lost and Somewhere Else </a>x Jenny Bornholdt: I need to start writing proper notes, in lieu of no longer putting reviews on Goodreads. Anyway, it's been a while since I read this but I remember thoroughly enjoying it. I've read a few volumes of poetry, some more cohesive than others, and proofread better. Anyway, generalised niggles aside-I had no qualms with this volume. I loved how it was also interspersed with imagery and it's definitely on my list of books I need to have on my shelves. You can read one of the poems <a href="https://thespinoff.co.nz/books/01-11-2019/the-friday-poem-duck-three-ways-by-jenny-bornholdt/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/music-year-of-the-monkey?barcode=9781526614759&search_key=patti+smith" target="_blank">Year of the Monkey</a>* x Patti Smith: I've already written about this book around these parts but I had to include it again. It is a book of dreams and stories. Recollections, travels, black coffee (of course), photography. As I've said, I would read Patti Smith's grocery lists. I loved this thin slip of a book immensely.</div>
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The Rainbow Queen x Sali Hughes: A bit of a different one, the Queen's outfits, colour coordinated and charmingly presented alongside captions by Sale Hughes. As well as anecdotes about the Queen and other bits & pieces. It would be a good stocking stuffer for The Crown fans and fashion fans in general. </div>
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-What did you love during October?</div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-60314724917835139432019-10-20T21:14:00.000+13:002019-10-20T21:14:12.174+13:00The Testaments x Margaret Atwood<br />
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So I am a bit behind on the bandwagon but I only just read <u>The Handmaid's Tale</u> x Margaret Atwood this year. I know. What the heck. To be fair, I did start it and for whatever, unprecedented reason I shelved it and then revisited it in the week or so before its sequel was unleashed upon the world. And I am obsessed with the TV show now too. Anyway, getting ahead of myself here.</div>
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I avoided reading <b>The Handmaid's Tale</b> for a long time. Why? I think I was scared to. And not in a, I will have nightmares for days kind of sense. More the, this is going to seemingly remind me of real life and in an unnerving kind of way. Which it does. For a book that was first released in 1985, it was incredibly foretelling. Is Margaret Atwood psychic? Perhaps. What's interesting to note as well is that anything in The Handmaid's Tale, whether it be the book or TV series is based on something that has happened in reality. Yep. </div>
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Anyway, today we are here to talk about The Testaments*, one of the co-winners of this year's Booker Prize. Which excites me because Margaret Atwood is brilliant and I have loved everything of hers that I have read thus far-my backlist is long! The follow-up to The Handmaid's Tale set about to answer the questions of what happened to Offred and whether Gilead still exists. What <i>that</i> version of the world is like today. The book is split into three plotlines; Aunt Lydia (yes, she is back people), Daisy and Agnes. Daisy was smuggled out of Gilead as a baby and now lives in Toronto. Agnes is growing up inside Gilead. </div>
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I don't really want to expand upon the plotline beyond what I have already said because it will spoil things considerably for anyone who hasn't read it yet and I know how lame that is as a reader. What I will say though is this is a really satisfying read, the threads are all well-developed and presented. They all somewhat intertwine as well but *insert zipped lips emoji here*. </div>
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I thoroughly enjoyed <u>The Testaments</u>. It was an incredibly satisfying read and as a newfound fan of The Handmaid's Tale, it further cemented why that book is one of my all-time favourites now. Even if I am late to the party. It's fast paced, suspenseful, and unputdownable. No really, I had many a late night reading this and I don't regret a single second of it.</div>
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The Testament's is available now from bookstores far and wide. Let's hope we women never lose the luxury of reading, as is the case in Gilead. Okay, maybe THAT is one nightmare I have had before. </div>
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-Have you read The Testaments? What did you think of it?</div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-2804777353300357262019-10-19T21:50:00.000+13:002019-10-19T21:50:29.899+13:00Five Things: October<br />
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Hello and Happy October! As per usual I am over here marvelling the passage of time, don't ever consider turning that in to a drinking game future Sophie, if you are reading. This week actually ended up being rather busy somehow-lotta spontaneous hangs and the rest so I am only just blogging now, on a Saturday night. It was that or the rugby and come on, you <i>know</i> what I'd rather be doing. So five things for October. We have some stationery, socks, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Patti and politics. Enjoy!</div>
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<b>The Politician (Netflix):</b> Where Ryan Murphy leads-theatrics and potential musical theatre numbers follow. And Jessica Lange, always Jessica Lange. Murphy's latest series, a Netflix exclusive focuses on a student body presidential election. Starring Ben Platt as Payton, the ambitious, extremely driven teen with Harvard and eventually the White House in his sights. Lucy Boynton is also fantastic as Astrid Sloan, Payton's rival presidential candidate. The Politician also deals with topical issues for teenagers and young adults alike but never in a way that feels insensitive. As this is a Ryan Murphy show it brings the drama and hilarity in equal measure. I <i>loved</i> it. The costuming also didn't disappoint either. Where else will we see Gwyneth Paltrow in what can only be described as the kaftan to end all kaftans? </div>
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<b>Olivia Purvis x Papier: </b>One of my favourite pen-pals and blogging ladies Olivia, has only gone and collaborated with stationery gems Papier on her own exclusive collection. Cue me internally squealing with delight. Liv loves her stationery so I KNEW it was going to be a golden combination. There's pastel pinks, burnt oranges, gingham, Liv's signature doodles. It is dreamy I tell ya. So if you are in need of some beautiful notecards, notebooks or a dishy new diary for 2019, head <a href="https://www.papier.com/au/designers/olivia-purvis" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<b>Patti Smith Newness: </b>It's not really a secret to anyone that I lovelovelove Patti Smith's writing. Just like it's no secret to anyone I love Phoebe Waller-Bridge but I am getting ahead of myself. Patti has recently dropped two new books** full of her beautiful prose and imagery. Our shelves and minds are in for a treat. First up, we have <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/music-year-of-the-monkey?barcode=9781526614759" target="_blank">Year of the Monkey</a>. A rumination on 2016. She writes of stories and dreams. Recurring motifs. Facts melding with fiction. It is an exquisite slip of a book that will hypnotise you. She has also released <a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/biography-and-true-stories/music-biographies/just-kids-2" target="_blank">Just Kids</a> in an absolutely beautiful, illustrated format. Perfect for coffee tables or luxuriating over with said beverage in bed on Sunday mornings. The latter which I have been doing. I know some of you will balk at the mention of the festive season but both would make perfect gifts. </div>
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<b>BCFNZ x Glassons: </b>October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and Glassons have bought their designer collaborations back for a good cause. With a help from some of their friends like Twenty Seven Names and Shaaanxo to name a couple, they have released a range of scarves and socks. All proceeds go to the New Zealand Breast Cancer foundation and they are all super cute. My pick are <a href="https://www.glassons.com/shoes-accessories/socks-tights/bcfnz-twenty-seven-names-sock-pack-SX30176TSN?c=TWENTY+SEVEN+NAMES" target="_blank">these</a> socks x Twenty Seven Names.</div>
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<b>Fleabag & The Messy Woman: </b>Could I go an entire post without mentioning PWB in some capacity? Probs not. Not even sorry about it. Madeleine perfectly articulates what it is about Fleabag and the messy woman that just makes them so endearing. As does Jia Tolentino in her essay about self-optimisation from <i>Trick Mirror. </i>Give Maddy's post a read <a href="http://thetwentiesclub.co.nz/portfolio/our-obsession-with-self-improvement-and-our-love-for-messy-women/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<i>**Both these books were kindly sent to me for review by Bloomsbury but all thoughts and admiration for Patti Smith's word magic are my own.</i></div>
nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-62452230895290765892019-10-07T09:00:00.000+13:002019-10-07T09:00:02.227+13:00September Wrap Up<br />
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September vanished with a flourish and while I realise we are now nearly a week into October, for my own sense of re-establishing some semblance of a blog routine, I am back with September's roundup for you all. You know the drill-things loved, good bits from the month and what I read. Enjoy! </div>
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<a href="https://www.jericomandybur.com/books/" target="_blank">Neo Tarot</a>: This was a gift from my friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_greenroomstudio/" target="_blank">Steph</a> for my birthday in August and I <i>love</i> it. I've never had my cards read before and I hadn't ever used tarot cards until she got me a set. While I don't consider myself an expert by any means, I love the ritualistic act of drawing cards for the week. I do this every Sunday afternoon and then go through the guide attached to the deck and decipher their meanings+how it may fit into my life. It's a part of my routine I really enjoy and I love how these ones come with a focus on self-care as well. </div>
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<a href="https://www.farmers.co.nz/brands/maybelline/maybelline-lash-sensational-eyelash-boosting-serum-6428467" target="_blank">Maybelline Lash Serum</a>: I've been to Chemist Warehouse a couple of times recently and this was one of the products that came home with me. To be quite honest, I was skeptical about it and whether or not it'd actually work but it seems to have had some effect. Granted, I already have quite thick eyelashes, they definitely seem to appear lengthened and fuller. I'd definitely buy this again as it's a lot cheaper than some of the other lash serums on the market, always a bonus. </div>
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3864056/?ref_=nv_sr_4?ref_=nv_sr_4" target="_blank">The Goldfinch</a> (film): First things first, reviews are worth ignoring sometimes. Such as in the case of this film. The Goldfinch, adapted from Donna Tartt's Pulitzer winning epic, is wonderful. Unfortunately I missed the first 15-20 minutes of the movie but what I did see was amazing. Given the filmmakers had the task of cramming 700 odd pages into two and a half hours, they managed to condense it enough without leaving crucial plot points and details out. Oh and speaking of details, this film is so nuanced and finely tuned. It perfectly encapsulates how you'd envision a Donna Tartt palette or aesthetic if you will, to appear on screen. Well worth the watch-it seems to have had a limited release in New Zealand but definitely go see it if you can.</div>
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Spring: My favourite season of all seasons. Flowers in bloom, the coldness in the air is beginning to dissipate and the daylight sticks around for longer. Oh and cherry blossoms-I nearly pulled over on the side of a country road to take pictures of some recently. In rush-hour traffic, well for that stretch of road-so naturally I reconsidered. Anyway, I love Spring. It's the best. End of discussion.</div>
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School of Rock-The Musical: Auckland was home to this show during September. Based on the film of the same name and brought to life with music written by Andrew Lloyd Webber, it's a fun, electric show. All the kids in this show play their own instruments as well as being triple threats and I was incredibly impressed by their talent. Not to mention, childhood Sophie could <b><i>never</i>. </b>I think this iteration has gone back to Australia so to my pals across the ditch, go give it a watch. </div>
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Market Trips: When I've managed to wake up early enough on a Saturday I've been going to one of the local morning markets. Fresh produce, plants, baked goods, crystals, homewares and a continual bustle of people. Also, a great way to get cheap fruit+veg and flowers. You may have noticed orchid stems making their way into my photos a bit recently, this is where I am getting them from.</div>
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'Steptember': During the month of September, my department at work did a 'Steptember' challenge, aka the one where I become deeply invested and buy a Fitbit. The latter, something I swore I'd never do. Anyway, it was surprisingly a lot of fun, I rediscovered my love of walking. In the end I finished fifth and my highest steps day was around the 15, 000 mark so I was quite chuffed. Now to maintain that walking...</div>
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Late nights reading: Can this be classed as a good thing? Maybe not but any time spent reading=a good time. Lately it seems I like the witching hour when everything is quiet and still. Also, the brilliant books I have had the pleasure of reading lately are totally to blame. How dare they be so unputdownable. Ahem, Margaret Atwood and Jia Tolentino, I am looking at you.</div>
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New Lana: I have already written about this <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2019/09/five-things-september.html" target="_blank">here</a> but all month, Norman Fcking Rockwell has been what I keep coming back to. I love it. Not exaggerating when I say it will probably be one of those albums I repeatedly play for years. </div>
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Soap for Society: This month, the lovely <a href="https://www.theresidents.co.nz/" target="_blank">Lucy</a>'s initiative, inspired by Sali Hughes (one of my beauty industry loves) came back to Wellington, as well as Auckland and Christchurch. Soap for Society shines the light on hygiene poverty and gets us all to reach into our beauty cabinets and give generously to those in need. I organised collection boxes at a couple of my current+former workplaces and among friends+family gathered donations. If you are reading, thank you all so much for your generosity. It wasn't until I hit the aisles of <u>Chemist Warehouse</u>, arguably one of the cheaper locations for beauty+sanitary bits 'n pieces, that it hit home just how much these things cost when added up. Things I am sure many of us take for granted; like hand soap, or the lipstick we nonchalantly toss in our bags. If you ever get a chance to support drives like these, I strongly urge you to do so. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-motherhood--18?barcode=9780099592846&search_key=sheila+heti" target="_blank">Motherhood</a> x Sheila Heti: What a book. I wasn't expecting to enjoy this as much as I did but Motherhood was such a breath of fresh air. The novel, autofiction perhaps (?) unfolds as a stream of consciousness. To have a child, to not have a child. How these feelings women feel are interpreted by society. What this says about us as women. While this book doesn't neatly answer the question of whether or not to mother, maybe that is the whole point. How can one neatly answer that question? </div>
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<a href="https://bittermelon.weebly.com/diary-of-a-miu-miu-salesgirl.html" target="_blank">Diary of a Miu Miu Salesgirl</a> x Jennifer Wong: One of the first poetry volumes published by 'bitter melon poetry', a small press founded by Nina Mingya Powles. I really enjoyed this collection and it was beautifully designed and presented. </div>
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<a href="https://www.womensbookshop.co.nz/p/fiction-the-handmaid-s-tale-tv-tie-in--4?barcode=9781784873189&search_key=the+handmaids+tale" target="_blank">The Handmaid's Tale</a>+<a href="https://www.womensbookshop.co.nz/p/fiction-the-testaments-2-the-handmaid-s-tale--6?barcode=9781784742324&search_key=the+testaments" target="_blank">The Testaments</a>* x Margaret Atwood: Ah, praised be. Under His eye. I've been in a Handmaid's spell all September, more on this very soon. In short, I have loved both these books and The Handmaid's Tale television adaptation for Hulu. So good.</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-trick-mirror-reflections-on-self-delusion?barcode=9780008294939&search_key=trick+mirror" target="_blank">Trick Mirror</a> x Jia Tolentino: I am still in the midst of finishing up this brilliant collection of essays but I wanted to jump on here and say it is wonderful. Evocative. Powerful. Poignant. Go get a copy and thank me later.</div>
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<i>*Review Copy</i></div>
<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-61155003759845190952019-09-22T17:39:00.000+12:002019-09-22T17:39:04.203+12:00Five Things: September<br />
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Better late than never, or something? Somehow September is almost gonezo. Which is crazy. That being said, there is a lotta good new launches and reads around that demand to be shared. The rest will probably end up in my next wrap-up post...</div>
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<b>YourShelf Podcast</b>: Ok so I am a biased, long-distance friend but my pal Jay goes from strength to strength with his venture YourShelf. And I am proud as punch, long distance now that he has launched his brand new, bookish podcast. The <a href="https://podcast.yourshelf.uk/episodes/1" target="_blank">first</a> episode features Florence Welch & Rebecca Lucy Taylor of Self Esteem. It is brilliant and well worth the listen. I feel like decent book podcasts are hard to come by but this one is a gem. </div>
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<b>Margaret Atwood x The Gentlewoman</b>: In case you have been living under a rock, <u>The Testaments</u>, the sequel to <u>The Handmaid's Tale</u> was released earlier in the month. More on all that soon. Well, The Gentlewoman, legends of the brilliant profile interviews that are a staple of their magazine interviewed Margaret Atwood. For their birthday issue no less. Anyway, it makes for brilliant, brilliant reading so settle in and have a peruse <a href="https://thegentlewoman.co.uk/library/margaret-atwood" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<b>Norman Rockwell x Lana Del Rey</b>: Blessed be the music gods and goddesses. I feel like 2019 has been spoiling us like crazy for new music. Not a bad thing and Lana's latest album is fantastic. Norman Fckn Rockwell feels like an evolution from <u>Lust for Life</u> and I am 100% here for it. I feel like all of Lana's albums are really distinctive and standalone yet still envelop themselves in the themes and lyricism we know and love her for; Americana, Literature, pop culture, love, sex. Standout tracks for me are: Happiness Is A Butterfly, Norman Fcking Rockwell, Venice Bitch, How To Disappear and The Next Best American Record. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flowerbeauty.com/" target="_blank"><b>Flower Beauty</b></a>: On a trip to <u>Chemist Warehouse</u> recently I finally had a chance to check out Flower Beauty, brainchild of Drew Barrymore. Cruelty free, luxurious makeup at an affordable price point? Yes please. I've been using and loving the <a href="https://www.flowerbeauty.com/collections/face/products/flower-pots-powder-blush?variant=16996975345734" target="_blank">Flower Pots</a> blush and one of the pencil liners but I am keen to try more. </div>
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<b>Caroline Calloway</b>: I feel like everybody has been talking about <a href="https://www.thecut.com/2019/09/the-story-of-caroline-calloway-and-her-ghostwriter-natalie.html" target="_blank">this</a> profile and I have a lot of thoughts on it which I am slowly sifting through. There's something about Caroline Calloway that is dare I say it, admirable and extremely clever. She uses Instagram to tell stories and entice and she does it well. Heck, she even got a book deal out of it back in the day when that kind of thing was incredibly unusual. Whenever I see orchid stems now I think of her. And Matisse silhouettes. But anyway, read that essay and digest. </div>
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-What has been on your radar this September?</div>
nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-2899595925166294622019-09-08T20:54:00.001+12:002019-09-08T20:54:08.784+12:00July + August Wrap Up<br />
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Somehow we are now in Spring as I write this and both July <i>and</i> August have magically slipped away. Though to be far, both July and August were rather busy times with a lot going on. Seriously, I talked through a list of all the 'stuff' that happened recently and I had to pause and be like, well yeah that is a lot. No wonder I am perpetually tired. Anyway, as is standard, here's a lil' wrap up of things I loved, the good bits of the last few months and a selection of what I read during July in August. Enjoy!</div>
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<b>Three Things Loved</b></div>
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-Legally Blonde: The Musical: The local theatre company in my town put this show on in July and it was so so so good. I mean, Legally Blonde is one of my alltime favourite, feel-good films and the musical brings the same energy and fabulousness. Go see it or listen to the cast recording at the very least if you get the opportunity to.</div>
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-Lover x Taylor Swift: I bet you thought Taylor Swift's name would never grace this blog again. She lost me with the Reputation era but Lover got me back. It reminds me of classic Taylor Swift but with more optimism. I suck at writing about music sorry but I dunno, I just really like this album. </div>
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-Derry Girls Season 2, on Netflix: I don't think I have written about Derry Girls around these parts before but I <i>LOVE</i> it. A brilliant, well-written, hilarious and heartwarming show set during the Troubles. <a href="https://thespinoff.co.nz/tv/20-08-2019/review-netflixs-derry-girls-is-the-best-teen-show-on-tv-right-now/" target="_blank">Read this article</a>. It articulates it better than I ever could. </div>
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<b>Five Good Things</b></div>
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-I got published(!!): So I was sitting on this for a while but I am so excited and smitten to be in the latest issue of <u>Counter Journal</u>. Bonnie and Zack invited me to write about saving the bookstores of Aotearoa for their Sustainability issue. I don't think I can get across into words how cool it was to casually flick through the magazine upon opening it and be like "Oh hey, those are my words-I did that." And I know it's probably uncool to be like I am proud of myself but you know what, I am. If you want to grab the issue to support local print+read all the awesome stories and see Bonnie's amazing design skills, head <a href="https://www.counterjournal.co.nz/shop/issue-two" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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-From Southend to Auckland: At the end of July+beginning of August we had some family friends visit New Zealand from the UK for the first time and it was the <i>best</i>. I had such an amazing time with them, playing tour guide for Auckland, which of course included mandatory Duck Island on a rather chilly day because, well why not. We also went to Wellington together and then my Mum ventured with them to Rotorua for a few days. Honestly, best two weeks and it was such a treat having you ladies here, if you are reading. Come back soon-I miss you, the Whittakers will always be plentiful xx. </div>
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-Birthday Week: August saw my birthday come and go for another year. 'Twas lovely and tbh one of the best birthdays I've had in a while. It started, pre-birthday with High Tea at Hotel De Brett. Absolutely delish if you are in Auckland, and the gin cocktails are divine. Then my birthday <i>day</i> was spent with our friends from England, having lunch+berry cider at Good George in Mission Bay, followed by divine cake from The Caker. And then the festivities carried on as I had a belated pasta lunch with a friend of mine. So good company, food and drink+cake. Not complaining. </div>
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-Heather's at Academy: In Auckland we have a lil' underground cinema called Academy and they play mainly nicher films as well as classics and the odd smattering of mainstream films. Anyway, they recently had a screening of Heathers, the Winona Ryder classic. High school, dark comedy and a clique to rival the Plastics. So good. "Dear diary, my teen-angst bullshit now has a body count." If you haven't seen it, it's well worth the watch. </div>
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-Positive Reflection: Aka the one where I use my diary a lot more, write gratitude lists and I dunno, generally feel more optimistic. That's not to say I don't have moments when I feel more Negative Nancy than anything else but idk, lately I have just been more grateful? Maybe it's because of some of the random, unexpected life events that have happened in my life+the lives of my nearest and dearest recently. I mean, I am always overanalytical but anyway. Long story short, positive reflection is good guys!</div>
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<b>Read in July and August</b></div>
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-<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/feminism-gender-studies-and-glbtii/feminism-gender-studies-and-glbtii/three-women" target="_blank">Three Women</a>* x Lisa Taddeo: I really want to read this again at some point because since publishing my review, I've read some interesting critiques and analysis of this book. Anyway, if you want to read my review after I finished an ARC I was sent prior to the book's release, head <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2019/07/three-women-x-lisa-taddeo.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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-<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-the-great-gatsby--72?barcode=9780141182636&search_key=the+great+gatsby" target="_blank">The Great Gatsby</a> x F Scott Fitzgerald, reread: Myself + a friend decided to read Penguin Classics, which has kinda halted since this as an aside. Anyway, this was a re-read for me as I read this around the time the Baz Luhrmann adaptation was released. I <i>loved</i> it. Don't get me wrong, I kinda strongly despise the characters in this book and think many of them are just absolutely shitty humans but I could wax lyrical about this for a while so I will stop. It's an easy and fascinating read. </div>
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-<a href="https://www.booktopia.com.au/fleabag-phoebe-waller-bridge/book/9781848428881.html" target="_blank">Fleabag: The Script</a>: In an effort to soothe my heartbroken soul at not seeing this gift performed live *weeps*, I ordered the script to read so I could at least enjoy its brilliance that way. I feel like the play is maybe a smidgen darker than the TV show but it is so clever and wonderful and I love Phoebe Waller-Bridge forever for writing this play and show. </div>
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-<a href="https://www.seraphpress.co.nz/tatai-whetu.html" target="_blank">Tatai Whetu: Seven Maori Women Poets in Translation</a>: Another gem from Seraph Press, I grabbed this whilst I was in Wellington at the beginning of August from <u>Unity Books</u>. Poetry in English and also printed alongside it in Te Reo. Mirrored languages, mirrored texts. Beautiful, beautiful writing. In all honesty, it's one of my favourite volumes of New Zealand poetry that I've read in 2019. </div>
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-<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-how-to-be-famous--33?barcode=9780091948993&search_key=caitlin+moran" target="_blank">How To Be Famous</a>* x Caitlin Moran: The sequel to Caitlin's bestselling, soon to be film, How To Be Famous. This time Johanna is in London, living her best life as a music journalist for magazines. Or she thought it was her best life. This is Johanna Morrigan so of course there is wisdom but also mess-ups, humour and a touch of sadness. Though this novel isn't dark and dreary. In fact, it is really hilarious and great if you want something that is easy to immerse yourself in. </div>
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<i>*Review Copy</i></div>
<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-56163137631154999032019-08-31T11:17:00.000+12:002019-08-31T11:17:34.198+12:00to be read<br />
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Hello! Long time, no write. Whoops. So....strange how that seems to happen yet I feel like I write <i>all</i> the time but somehow this poor lil' corner of the interwebs gets a bit neglected. And I feel guilty about it. So naturally it makes sense to be writing now, at almost midnight. Logic is fabulous. Anyway anyway, today I thought I'd do something a bit different and talk about books I am hoping to read soon. Aka the "tbr"/to be read pile! There's a mix of new books, a classic I am yet to read, some Booker prize candidates and more...</div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/Truants" target="_blank">The Truants</a> x Kate Weinberg: This recommendation comes straight from the lovely <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kloe_blades/" target="_blank">Chloe</a> at Unity Books Auckland. Side note: Chloe has the <u>best</u> recommendations so go in and ask her for bookish suggestions if you are in the city. Anyway, here we have a campus novel, this time set in Norwich and it gives off Donna Tartt vibes but in a dare I say it, more accessible way. I'm only about a third of the way through it but it's a book you can easily immerse yourself in and I feel like I will be lauding it as the perfect beach read in a couple month's time. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/cultural-studies-trick-mirror-reflections-on-self-delusion?barcode=9780008294939&search_key=jia+tolen" target="_blank">Trick Mirror</a> x Jia Tolentino: One of my most highly anticipated essay volumes of the year, bought to my attention by <a href="http://thetwentiesclub.co.nz/" target="_blank">Madeleine</a> and what feels like everyone whose reading recommendations I trust online. Jia Tolentino's writing is a highlight of reading the New Yorker-which admittedly I don't read enough but anyway. From the little snippets and interviews I have been reading to tide me over until it arrives in New Zealand, I am sure it's gonna deliver the goods.</div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/ghost-wall-1" target="_blank">Ghost Wall</a> x Sarah Moss: This is <a href="https://www.timeout.co.nz/upcoming-events/litreadsghoswall" target="_blank">Time Out's</a> next Lit Read and was a contender for the Women's fiction prize this year. A book I have been meaning to read for a while so this seems like the perfect occasion. I have been told it's one you can read in one sitting so maybe I need to set aside some quiet evening with wine and this for escapement. I will keep you posted...</div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-the-bell-jar--2?barcode=9780571268863&search_key=sylvia+plat" target="_blank">The Bell Jar</a> x Sylvia Plath: A classic that somehow I have never read, despite reading a fair bit of Plath's writings now. Well I say <i>somehow, </i> there is something daunting about this book to me for whatever reason but more on that some other time. I've already read a book about this book, I know, so meta *ahem* and while it feels wrong to say I am looking forward to reading it-that's the truth of the matter.</div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/ducks-newburyport" target="_blank">Ducks, Newburyport</a> x Lucy Ellmann: Another awards longlist contender, this time for the Man Booker Prize. And it is <i>mighty</i>, clocking in at 1020 pages. I will let this review from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1vh_wHgJNK/" target="_blank">Jay</a> do the rest of the talking for you. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-animals-fti--6?barcode=9781838850333&search_key=animals" target="_blank">Animals</a> x Emma Jane Unsworth: One of the NZIFF highlights which sadly I missed but in the interim, there is this gem of a book. I say it's a gem in a somewhat prophetic way but hey, Caitlin Moran <i>loves</i> it and that's enough for me. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/music-year-of-the-monkey?barcode=9781526614759&search_key=year+of+the+monkey" target="_blank">Year of the Monkey</a> x Patti Smith: Ah Patti Smith, her writing is the tonic and I am so so looking forward to this new volume which is being released very soon. And underlining. And reading and re-reading. I love Patti Smith a lot, can you tell?</div>
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<i>-What is on your 'to be read' pile?</i></div>
<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-72079499118934833202019-07-22T22:00:00.000+12:002019-07-22T22:00:26.500+12:00Three Women x Lisa Taddeo<br />
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A book this detail driven demands to be read. To be thrust into the hands of women. To be discussed. To be dissected. To be contemplated. After immersing myself in an advance copy of <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/biography-memoir-three-women?barcode=9781526611659&search_key=lisa+taddeo" target="_blank">Three Women</a>* x Lisa Taddeo, I am ready to talk about it. </div>
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My copy of this book is adorned with smudges. The covers are worn and frayed. Post-it notes are nestled in its pages and it barely left my side for a good week or so. A cover this decadent can only hint at the indulgent and lustrous text about to unfold. Blessed be the fruit; the desire of love, and sex and passion. </div>
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Three Women unfolds in a novelistic fashion as Lisa Taddeo interviews Lina, Maggie and Sloane over an eight year period. It never feels unreal but the way in which each narrative unfurls around one another shows just how interwoven lust and desire are in our lives. We have Maggie, a now twenty-something who was infatuated by her high school teacher-until life unravels and she comes to terms with what he did to her, Lina-a woman lost in a loveless marriage and Sloane-a woman whose sexuality serves as a prop for her husband to manipulate.</div>
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These are all tales of women and it is through their dialogue that we see snapshots of ourselves. The women in our lives. The women of the #metoo era. Women we may never meet.</div>
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We see the power of lust and desire. Like the succulent cornucopia of fruit that Taddeo writes of in her introduction; "plump figs, small but glorious strawberries, glistening cherries, wine grapes."</div>
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Taddeo expertly creates a nonfiction, journalistic snapshot of desire and lust as we know them today. This is a book that is decadent and evocative. It unfolds like an evening spent luxuriating over a glass of wine. You will feel like 'the crystals under skin'. Electric. Fired up.</div>
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Three Women is a dazzling, unforgettable read and Taddeo has created a masterpiece-akin to a still-life, much like the decadent bowl of fruit on her book's cover. Irresistible. Unputdownable. </div>
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<i>*Review copy</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-79118907171987467162019-07-15T09:00:00.000+12:002019-07-15T09:00:01.510+12:00Five Things: July<br />
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Hey hi, 'tis July! What even is this sorcery. The passage of time (obviously) but seriously, how the flip does it end up being July so quickly!? Marvels aside, today I have five things to wax lyrical on; from poetry to essays, films to listens and even a lil' beauty spot. Have a nosy...</div>
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NZIFF is here: Aka the one where I miss being a student, if only so I could study and sneak off to films in between lectures and tutorials. I digress, NZIFF is back for 2019 and it is quite the lineup. I am only gonna be making it to <a href="https://www.nziff.co.nz/2019/auckland/animals/" target="_blank">this</a> but I wish I was able to see more. I recommend you check out Maddy's <a href="http://thetwentiesclub.co.nz/portfolio/new-zealand-international-film-festival-19-what-to-see/" target="_blank">post</a> of films to watch this festival season. </div>
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<a href="https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/florence-welch-on-addiction-and-sobriety" target="_blank">This essay x Florence Welch</a>: "I tend to look back on that time with a mix of nostalgia and terror. There's a part of me that's in awe of that girl, her total disregard for self-preservation, how she could run at the world headfirst, eyes closed, with no care for the consequences." Florence Welch wrote an essay for British Vogue and first and foremost, can she write more essays please!? This is brilliant. She perfectly encapsulates the feelings and worries of adult life but at the same time the brilliance of I guess finding calm in the chaos. Read it.</div>
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<a href="https://howtofail.podbean.com/e/htf_pwb_2019/" target="_blank">The one with Fleabag</a>: Aka Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Yes, I am <i>still</i> talking about Fleabag+PWB. Sorry, not sorry. Anyway, she is back on Elizabeth Day's <u>How To Fail</u> podcast and it is brilliant. I laughed out loud at my desk in the office #noshame. Loved it. Going to listen to it again. </div>
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<a href="https://www.thegreenroomhb.co.nz/" target="_blank">The Green Room</a>: One of my pals Steph has set up this awesome, holistic skincare experience in the Hawkes Bay and it looks like a treat. Steph has over 14 years experience and is super clued up on all things skincare. Seriously, she is my personal Google sometimes (sorry, Steph). Anyway, she offers two facial experiences; intuitive skin sculpting and intuitive skin clearing. She uses Tribeca Skin Tonics in her studio which I've heard are <i>amazing</i>. So if you're in the Hawkes Bay, go check it out. I'm quietly envious of y'all getting to experience Steph's magic! </div>
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<a href="https://www.seraphpress.co.nz/luminescent.html" target="_blank">Luminescent x Nina Powles: </a> I read this a couple of months ago and <i>loved</i> it. It was in the middle of a work day and I needed a moment of quiet+solitude and escapism and these chapbooks delivered. I particularly loved Sunflowers, about Katherine Mansfield and Her+The Flames about Phyllis Porter, a ballet dancer struck by tragedy. The whole collection is beautiful. You can have a read of two of the Katherine Mansfield poems <a href="https://www.starlingmag.com/issue-1/nina-powles" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<i>-I hope y'all are having good July's so far! I will be back soon(ish)-I hope, with a book review.</i></div>
nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-58489059820794955172019-06-30T19:32:00.000+12:002019-06-30T19:32:53.206+12:00June Wrap Up<br />
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Y'know the drill here, the month is nearly over so it's time to do my lil' curation. I apologise for the blog silence this month and I am hoping to remedy that, despite July looking a bit bu-sy. Points for trying or something? Anyway, here are the things loved, good and read from June. Enjoy!</div>
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<b>Five Things I Loved:</b></div>
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* Kitchen Table Sessions- For someone who loves theatre so much, I make it to a dismal amount of shows but my friend Lucie was stage-managing/slaying for this show and I wanted to go along to support her+her friends so I did. And it was awesome. Hosted by Kate Barnes, each night featured different guests who all gathered to banter all things food, tell stories, drink some beverages and share their favourite foods+recipes with us. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention-there was <b>food</b>. We had regular food intermissions. It was AMAZING. And live performances from Lips who are the geniuses behind the <u>Daffodils</u> soundtrack. It was a treat and I *think* they are going to be hosting these again so if you can, I highly recommend you head along. 'Tis a good time. </div>
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* Fleabag-Yes I am <i>ridiculously</i> late to this bandwagon but I am here. I get it now. Phoebe Waller-Bridge is a genius and Fleabag is hilarious, relatable, tear-jerkingly funny yet also incredibly poignant. Can you tell I love it quite a bit? I also feel incredibly *seen* by the character of Fleabag to be quite honest. Please watch it if you haven't yet seen it. I haven't laughed this hard at a TV show in a long time. Side note: Olivia Colman is a national treasure. </div>
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* Drunk Elephant '<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/drunk-elephant/out-of-office/I-038787.html#start=1" target="_blank">Out of Office</a>' Set-While I have no plans to jetset soon *sad face* I am so glad I picked this lil' trio up because two of the products I've tried are new staples for me. Firstly, Lippe Balm. It is the business. My lips usually go to pieces in Winter (thx seasonal change) but this seems to be putting an end to that. I like how it's nourishing, without feeling like you are wearing a ton of lip balm. It's doing its job but without being obnoxious like a big rainbow jumper demanding to be noticed. Secondly, D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops. I am obsessed. I need the full size in my life please and thanks. As well as being a serum, these give your complexion a touch of the sunkissed glow. In a subtle, yes I have been on a tropical holiday but not gone overboard on the tan, way. </div>
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* Katherine Mansfield Letters and Journals-One of my secondhand bookstore finds from this month and it is a delight. Ali Smith reignited my interest in all things Mansfield with her latest novel <u>Spring</u>, as did the emergence of a certain Mansfield-themed garden that has cropped up in the Hamilton Gardens. Weird segway, anyway. Mansfield's diary entries and letters are so beautifully written and decadent gems of insight into the woman herself. I love how <i>sassy</i> she is too. </div>
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* Derry Girls-I feel like this sat on my Netflix watchlist for way too long but never fear, for I have seen all of Season 1 and a couple of Season 2 episodes. It follows Erin, a teenaged girl in Ireland during the troubles+her host of eclectic friends and family. It's hilarious and so well-written. I'm not sure if it's semi-autobiographical but it felt that way. If that makes sense. Anyway, it's good. Watch it.</div>
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<b>Five Good Things</b></div>
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* I wrote, a lot: I'm actually really freakin' proud of this because the motivation for writing has been a bit hit and miss of late. This month though I decided I'd do as many 'pitches' to publications as I could do. I think I ended up doing three or four which probably doesn't sound like heaps but nonetheless I am proud of myself for knuckling down and getting on with some writing that extends beyond journaling and writing for myself. So yay me! I'm hoping to carry it on over the next few months too so wish me luck.</div>
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* Drink Eat Neo: One of my friends had a birthday earlier in the month so we went for a late lunch to <a href="https://www.drinkeatneo.com/bookings" target="_blank">this</a> gem tucked away in Auckland CBD. We had their cheese board+non-alcoholic mojitos. The perks of work weeks (I mean...). Anyway, it was a good time, and it was delish and it is a <i>beautifully</i> designed space. I highly recommend you give it a visit if you're in Auckland. I will definitely be going back sometime soon. </div>
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* New Music: So a few of my faves dropped new music this month; Benee, Vampire Weekend and the Jonas Brothers. All different. All brilliant. Also, not exactly 'new' music but High As Hope, one of my favourite albums had its first birthday recently and Melodrama x Lorde turned 2 this month. Good month for music, June.</div>
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* Book Club: I don't always make it to book club but when I do 'tis a good time. This month we discussed Spring x Ali Smith, which I have <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2019/04/spring-in-translation.html" target="_blank">reviewed</a> already here. Ali Smith seems to generate polarising discussion so it made for really well-rounded, interesting banter. I am not gonna lie, some opinions ruffled my feathers a tad....such is the case of being a biased fangirl. But yeah, book clubs are <b>great</b>. I love 'em. </div>
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* Flowers, just because: Proteas are around and about at this time of year and I wanted one. I wanted a stem and didn't want to wait for someone to get me flowers which tbh, would probably be a long wait (ha). Anyway, I feel like buying flowers for oneself is one of those things I have turned into an insecurity....I dunno, my mind works in interesting ways. And you know what-why should it be something to feel weird about? Buy yourself the flowers-don't wait for an excuse.</div>
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<b>Books Read in June</b></div>
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*Normal People x Sally Rooney: I wanted a comfort read, a book which I love and will forever love. A book where I can find gleamings of familiarity within its pages, beauty within Rooney's words. Just as wonderful a second time around.</div>
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*Too Much & Not The Mood x Durga Chew-Bose: Another re-read and a book which is now messy with my random scribblings and underlinings. Clearly I have picked this book up on a whim more than once as lines of black and blue and pink and turquoise scatter its pages. There's something really mesmerising and enticing to Durga's prose. </div>
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*How To Fail x Elizabeth Day: The tonic in book form, read my thoughts <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2019/06/fail-again-failing-better-and-how-to.html" target="_blank">here</a>. And then go listen to the podcast. I recommend Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Dolly Alderton's episodes in particular.</div>
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*Brown Girls In Bright Red Lipstick x Courtney Sina Meredith: One of Tayi Tibble's favourite books. I loved this thin slip of a book and wish it was more widely available+discussed because I think women in particular need to get ahold of it. </div>
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*The Casual Perfect x Lavinia Greenlaw: Another secondhand bookstore find. I love Lavinia Greenlaw's poetry a lot and I did like this volume a lot too. Night Photograph is still my favourite but this one is up there as well.</div>
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-And then I also re-read Harry Potter #3 and some more poetry volumes. So not a lot of reading happened in June (whoops).</div>
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<i>-What did you love during June?</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-60938917859564034972019-06-22T14:51:00.000+12:002019-06-22T14:51:46.679+12:00Fail Again, Failing Better and 'How To Fail'<br />
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Fail: To fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired or approved.</div>
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To fail is to be filled with a sense of gut-wrenching dread. It's feeling like you have an arrow following you. Hey look, this girl/guy <b>failed</b>. I've failed; exams, relationships, driving tests and more. And yes failure can be incredibly painful. I used to think failure meant universal negativity and finality. That is, until I stumbled upon Elizabeth Day and her magic.</div>
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Her podcast, 'How To Fail' got me through a trying situation last year that felt like, well, a setback. And I guess to some extent it was but at the time it made me realise that I could embrace that failure instead. It makes me think of this JK Rowling quote: "Some failure in life is inevitable. It is impossible to live in life without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all-in which case, you fail by default." </div>
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Hearing people I respect and admire, like Dolly Alderton or Phoebe Waller-Bridge, successful women in their creative fields, openly discussing their successes and setbacks it's eye-opening. Not to mention, reassuring and inspiring. As I write this post, I am listening to Charly Cox's episode and it is equally as inspiring, especially when I have just started to get into writing my own poetry myself. Y'know, failure isn't something we talk about openly but this podcast turns the notion that it should be kept private and not be up for discussion on its head. Difficult conversations demand to be had.</div>
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The book, follows in a similar fashion though it delves more extensively into Elizabeth Day's experiences and stories. She covers how to fail at dating, being Gwyneth Paltrow, friendship, work, families and more. It also ties her experiences in with that of her podcast guests and is like a cosy, reassuring, calming blanket of a book. Crammed with wisdom and humour and charm, it's such a brilliant read. </div>
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I'll be honest, I found How To Fail a bit too <i>real</i> at times which is in no way a critique of the book itself. It just meant I read it a bit slower and more cautiously than usual. That being said, it is in the realness and openness of Day and her contributors that solace and relatability lie. This is such a beautiful book and if I was Oprah-level rich, I'd give everyone in my life a copy. So go read it, or listen to the audiobook-also narrated by Day. Oh and side note, Phoebe Waller-Bridge descending the stairs singing 'At Last x Etta James', big mood. </div>
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<i>-Have you read How To Fail? What did you think of it?</i></div>
<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-89423942141154929292019-06-09T19:07:00.001+12:002019-06-09T19:07:26.595+12:00Self Care Sunday<br />
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It's Sunday, the weekend is somehow quickly vanishing and all of a sudden it's nearly a new week. What a buzzkill and blessing all in one go right!? All that said, Sunday doesn't have to be a total downer. For me, I usually try to reserve part of Sundays just for myself. Call it selfish, call it self-maintenance. I guess it's both of those things. Long story short, Sundays are at least in part <i>my</i> day. So today, seeing as it is Sunday and all I thought I'd talk you through some activities I do on a Sunday, just 'cos. It's nothing groundbreaking and I won't say it'll change your life because you could really do these anytime. But anyway, way to not sell a concept <i>Sophie</i>. Here is what I do for a bit of chill on Sundays...</div>
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<b>Sleep Ins: </b>So this failed pretty spectacularly this weekend as my internal clock woke me up at the time I usually get up for work during the week. When you can though-sleep in! If you are like me, you don't sleep enough. It's not exactly news that lack of sleep=not good in any regard so cherish that sleep in. Turn that alarm off and soak up the extra shut-eye.</div>
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<b>Face Mask+(sometimes) Eye Masks: </b>This is one activity I always like to do on a Sunday. It's a bit of a ritualistic thing but I also find masking incredibly relaxing and like a little treat for my skin too. Recently I've decided I don't like sheet masks, at all but prefer a mask I can apply myself. At the moment I am using and loving the <a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/summer-fridays/jet-lag-mask/I-035808.html?cgpath=brands-summer" target="_blank">Jet Lag</a> mask x Summer Fridays. It's a bit wallet weepingly expensive but they have recently bought out a smaller size. And it does work quickly and wondrously so, cannot complain. As for eyes, this isn't a step I do all the time but I will definitely be tonight because the eyebag game is strong. Anyway, I use <a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/patchology/wink-wink-flashpatch-5-minute-hydrogels/I-033436.html?cgpath=brands-patch" target="_blank">these</a> and they are so lovely and cooling too. I love 'em.</div>
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<b>Reading w/ all the cushions & blankets: </b>I am not sure what it is about Sundays but if it doesn't involve a reasonably lengthy reading session, I am usually not satisfied. At the moment it's Winter here in NZ so fluffy, cosy blankets are a <b>must</b>. I usually disappear to a hidden corner of the house too for the most uninterrupted time. </div>
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<b>Go for walks: </b>Preferably alone, this is your time. Walks=the best to immerse yourself in nature and mull over anything and everything I guess. Y'know how this works.</div>
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<b>Make a to-do list: </b>This may not sound like 'self-care' as it has the potential to create stress but for me it's useful for me to see what I need to do in the week ahead, or on a smaller scale what I want to achieve on Sunday. Either way, it helps because sometimes I forget stuff and then I can be like "Oh wait, I have X on Wednesday or I made X appointment". Yeah.</div>
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<b>Movie+TV Afternoons: </b>I don't really watch much TV during the week so it's a nice lil' treat and relaxer for me on the weekend. Netflix is my go-to. Though now I have the new season of <u>Big Little Lies</u> sitting and waiting to record, that'll be my go-to. Fleabag is also on my watchlist. But I have been rewatching <u>The Crown</u> lately and loving it. I mean, watching TV shows or films are a pretty failsafe way to unwind and zone out.</div>
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<i>-What do you do to unwind on the weekend?</i></div>
<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-85259444714321197552019-06-03T20:10:00.001+12:002019-06-03T20:10:12.862+12:00May Wrap Up<br />
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I feel like May has been short and sweet. So I will keep this intro short, and sweet for once. May has been...a ride. More on that some other time, perhaps. On a more positive note, it is May wrap up time. Whoop whoop! Today we have five things I loved, some positive bits from the month (because we are all about the positive vibes, yes we are) and books I have read in May, aka the one where I reread things. </div>
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<b>Five Things I Loved:</b></div>
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*The Years x Annie Ernaux: Shortlisted for the Man Booker International prize, this book is a <i>feast</i>. And I don't mean that in a, bucket of chicken+pot of coleslaw kind of way. I mean it in a decadent, banquet, cup overflowing with champagne kind of sense. The Years is a memoir told through images, snapshots, snippets of a time and a place. The narrator places herself on the edge of the scene and as a result, The Years is a truly unique reading experience. I'm probably articulating this terribly but if you like your memoirs unconventional and non-linear, you will like this. I <b>loved</b> it.</div>
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*NARS <a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/nars/liquid-blush/V-027938.html?cgpath=brands-nars" target="_blank">Liquid Blush</a> in Orgasm: Nowadays I seem to gravitate towards cream blusher and I love the way this brightens and illuminates in one handy pump. You barely need any product too and I love the faux glow it creates. Yass please. </div>
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*Britney's Wellness Week: My uni pal from way back, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/britneyofLAH/videos?disable_polymer=1" target="_blank">Brit</a> has been creating some really fricken great videos lately. Don't get me wrong, she always creates awesome+inspiring things but lately they've been really resonating, for many reasons. Anyway, last month I loved her wellness series, as well as videos on self care+mental health. Britney speaks so candidly and openly about her experiences and it inspires me+makes me want to share my stories too. <i>I am getting there</i>. But anyway, I recommend her videos so much. They are real and relatable-go watch 'em.</div>
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*Rocketman: <b>THIS. FILM. THO. </b>Or as someone said to me, "Sophie, this is your Bohemian Rhapsody 2.0". So true. I fricken loved Rocketman. It's somewhere between a musical+biopic for me, which I am 100% here for. Part fantasy, part reality. It's a story of Elton at the height of his success and rise to fame, and the eventual mess that is drugs and toxic family backstories. Taron Egerton is <b>amazing</b> as Elton. So talented. And that soundtrack+the costuming. I want ridiculous sunglasses and a denim jacket with star patches now plz. Seriously though-go watch it if this sounds like a bit of you because it is brilliant. </div>
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*<a href="https://hikoco.co.nz/collections/peripera/products/sugar-twinkle-liquid-shadow-03-kitten-beige" target="_blank">That Stila dupe</a>: Props to my girl <a href="https://www.instagram.com/luxelis/" target="_blank">Lucie</a> for bringing this eyeshadow to my attention. It's sparkly and shimmery and makes me feel like a fairy or something when I wear it. Idk, sparkly eyeshadow makes me feel sparklier. There must be some science/psychological reasoning there. Anyway, what I also like about this is that it is a much more affordable dupe for the Stila Glitter & Glow shadows. I mean, Beige Kitten is basically a near-identical dupe for Kitten Karma. Definitely get amongst it if you like cream shadows+sparkly eyelids.</div>
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<b>Five Good Things:</b></div>
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*Literally Lorne-This was a Friday evening of poetry, thanks to the Auckland Writer's Festival. Highlights included hearing Tayi Tibble and Ashleigh Young reading their work in art galleries and the city library respectively. <i>And</i>; you could recite a line from a poem at a cafe and receive a cookie. Small pleasures. For those wondering-I chose "throw me in a haunted wheelbarrow and set me on fire" from 'Monica' x Hera Lindsay Bird. </div>
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*Quiz Nights-What is this, the mere concept of me out on a <b>weeknight!?</b> All seriousness, how fricken fun are pub quizzes? Where have I been... I mightn't be particularly good when it comes to geography, or sport but hey-it's a fun evening and I like to flex my general knowledge muscles. Or somethin. </div>
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*<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6UazdAlqhs" target="_blank">This cover x Lana Del Rey</a>-"Summer tiiiime, and the livin's easy". I feel like a new Lana Del Rey album has to be on the horizon. I lovelovelove this cover though so much. I've thrown it in a lot of my playlists during May and it's made me go back on a Lana-fest. Quite frankly, that is never a bad thing.</div>
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*Treasure hunting at the beach-I'm not sure why it has taken me so long to acknowledge that water+the beach makes me happy. I find the sound of water lapping against the sand incredibly calming. The sight of sunlight sparkling on the water makes my eyes like the heart-eyed emoji. Idk, water just relaxes me. As does looking for beautiful shells and sea glass. Note to self: Sophie, you actually like the beach.</div>
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*<a href="https://unbound.com/boundless/2019/05/28/my-many-years-of-reading-dangerously-whether-twitter-likes-it-or-not/" target="_blank">This article on reading, a lot</a>. I am going to leave this here as it really speaks for itself. And it resonated, a lot. I get told at least once a week that I read a lot-in varying degrees of judgement. I will leave this extract here though: "That something so innocuous can provoke such a range of strong responses is very interesting. How can a quantity of books represent a reproach to some and a celebration to others? To me, as the perpetrator they are neither." </div>
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<b>Books I Read in May:</b></div>
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*Ah and on that note, here's what I read-well, most of it. You'll notice at least half are poetry volumes-short & easy.</div>
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/ Harry Potter-Books 1 & 2: Earlier in the May I was a bit poorly #thxflu and it meant a lot of reading+sleeping. I was feeling nostalgic so I reached for the Harry Potter books and it was magic. I know JK Rowling is a bit problematic nowadays but you cannot deny how brilliant these books were and are. </div>
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/ How I Get Ready x Ashleigh Young: Ashleigh is one of my favourite writers so I was highly anticipating her poetry volume. It didn't disappoint. I read it in one frenzied go on my train ride home from work and loved every second of it. </div>
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/ Terrific Mother x Lorrie Moore: A short+sweet read from Faber's 90th birthday series. It's darkly funny and sharply written. I need to read more of Lorrie Moore's words soon.</div>
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<i>-What did you love during May?</i></div>
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nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-52037715102466922172019-05-13T22:18:00.000+12:002019-05-13T22:18:16.792+12:00Five Things: May<br />
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Hello, happy Monday & May. As I write this I am going to be honest, I feel a bit disoriented. Most likely what comes from sleeping the weekend away and intermittently resurfacing to read and watch Netflix+drink orange juice. #fluseasonissoglam. But today is not about ailments or even pulpy orange juice which is the jam, today is about five things for May. We have icecream, articles and some TV+film to add to your list...</div>
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<u>Duck Island</u>: Aka quite possibly the coolest icecream pop-up store you will ever encounter. I love it so much-I went there twice in a week and had the same thing. Fairy Bread and Blueberry Buttermilk Gooey Butter Cake. Frickin delish. Also-they cater to people with allergy concerns which gets a big tick of approval from me. If you are in Auckland, hit up Ponsonby Road, otherwise they have a couple of locations in Hamilton too. </div>
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<a href="http://thetwentiesclub.co.nz/portfolio/life-is-an-exercise-in-both-and-thinking/" target="_blank">both/and</a>: Madeleine often writes some of my favourite thinkpieces but this one last week particularly resonated. It's an idea explored in cognitive behavioural therapy and honestly, such an important tool. And I am not the best at it but seriously, it's such a good way to step back and put things/moments/memories in perspective. "It's learning that sometimes life gives to us by taking something away. That even when things are just f*cking terrible, there are still moments of levity. That it's still a good life even on life's worse day."</div>
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Rocketman: "And I think it's gonna be a long long time..." I am <b>so</b> excited for Rocketman, the biopic about Elton John. I mean, watch the trailer-it looks fantastic. Honestly, I don't know a ton about Elton's backstory so I am looking forward to seeing this-to the point I bought advanced screening tickets. Not gonna lie, I kinda want to buy <a href="https://www.glassons.com/shoes-accessories/sunglasses/loveheart-sunglasses-GA40425MAU?c=GOLD%2FMAUVE" target="_blank">these</a> just for the occasion. Side note: I actually want to buy those anyway because Lana Del Rey vibes. But yes, Rocketman-bring it.</div>
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<a href="https://thegentlewoman.co.uk/magazine" target="_blank">The Gentlewoman</a>: I feel like to read this magazine is an event. You want to savour each page, every word, the design-preferably with a decent beverage & silence. Maybe this is just me but this magazine is a treat and I bloomin' love it. Issue 19 has recently launched, starring Cindy Sherman-whose work I saw at the City Gallery in Wellington a few years back (so good). Also there archive of profiles online is worth casting your eyes over, <a href="https://thegentlewoman.co.uk/library" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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The Crown 2.0: Me whenever I literally finish any TV series, "what next? The Crown, again?" This time though-it's more in anticipation for Season 3 because I think we are close. My prediction is it'll drop in July/August on Netflix and I cannot wait. More so to see Helena Bonham Carter & Olivia Colman as Margaret & Queen Elizabeth respectively. I mean, if you've been around this blog a while-you will know I love The Crown and it's such a treat to watch. The costuming+attention to detail in every sense as well=yass.</div>
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-What are you loving this May?</div>
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nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-27506028130118353072019-05-05T12:03:00.000+12:002019-05-05T12:03:54.507+12:00beauty lust list '19, part one<br />
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Ah beauty-sphere, it has been a hot minute hasn't it? To be honest, I don't wear a <i>lot</i> of makeup anymore. I mean when I do, it's almost eventful. How times change! Most days I just faff with a bit of concealer, maybe mascara/lash curler and gloss/a neutral lip. But I still love the ritualistic process of applying makeup, I still love seeing glittery eyeshadows and what brands are up to but I am not...religious about it. If that makes sense. Anyway, lately though I've been thinking about some things I want to repurchase-because I am one of those people now as well as some new (ish) bits I want to try out. A beauty lust list or 'things I want to get on pay day' spiel if you will...</div>
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Liquid Blush x <a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/nars/liquid-blush/V-027938.html?cgpath=brands-nars" target="_blank">NARS</a>: I think Cloud Paint converted me to cream/liquid blush. Matte powders just look...flat to me now and I find myself wanting to up the shimmer or reach for a highlight. Anyway after seeing these on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fionaclaregoddard_/" target="_blank">Fi's</a> Instagram stories and having a cheeky swatch in store, I <i>want</i> one. So pretty!</div>
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Extended Play Perm Me Up Lash Mascara x <a href="https://www.farmers.co.nz/mac-cosmetics/makeup/eyes/mac-extended-play-perm-me-up-lash-black-6434009" target="_blank">MAC Cosmetics</a>: The OG Extended Play is one of my favourite mascaras ever, so the fact there's a newbie with a bit of a lash lifting wand? Yes. Please. Get in my life. I mean, I am a bit nervous to try this because I love the original so much-irrational makeup lover problems or something but yeah-I see it, I like it, I want it. You get the gist.</div>
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Brushes x <a href="https://www.sephora.nz/brands/zoeva/tools-and-brushes" target="_blank">Zoeva</a>: Zoeva brushes are the <i>best</i> and mine are well-loved so I just wanna replace some of the faves more than anything. Buffer brush and the various eye brushes, I will be coming for you. </div>
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<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/patchology/flashpatch-restoring-night-eye-gels/V-030733.html#start=1" target="_blank">Eye Gels</a> x Patchology: I was actually pretty sparing with the last set of these patches I had but I ran out and my eyes miss 'em. If only because they were just such a treat to use but also they brightened+hydrated the eye area like nobody's business. Um, maybe keep me away from Mecca on payday? Ha.</div>
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Cheek to Chic x <a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/charlotte-tilbury-cheek-to-chic.html?variant_id=20333" target="_blank">Charlotte Tilbury</a>: Pillow Talk is such an iconic CT shade-the lipstick is my favourite neutral and when she expanded the collection to include this blusher, among other things, my heart sang. I have never tried the Cheek To Chic blushers but this one looks <b>stunning</b>. </div>
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<i>-What is on your beauty lust list?</i></div>
nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-52485837481253614642019-04-28T20:50:00.002+12:002019-04-28T20:50:42.676+12:00April Wrap Up<br />
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April and Autumn arrived with a flurry of changes, a bit of a "we are quarter of the way through 2019" existential crisis-just being honest here and thus things were a bit chaotic and busy but in the best kind of way. Though I definitely found myself reassessing self-care and the like midway through the month and I am glad I did. Anyway, you may have noticed my 'favourites' post has been given a bit of a makeover. Partly because the idea of just a post full of 'things' felt a bit gross, partly because I want to mix things up and try something new. Yeah, so April wrap-up, let's dive in...</div>
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<b><u>Five Things I Loved:</u></b></div>
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<b>*</b><a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/spring-1" target="_blank">Spring </a>x Ali Smith: Another blissful homage to all the things I love about Ali Smith's work. <i>And</i> one of my extremely generous friends sent me a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwu2QiBhpjJ/" target="_blank">signed copy</a> which I am still not over. Read my musings about the book and Ali Smith's genius in general <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2019/04/spring-in-translation.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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*<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/go-to/exfoliating-swipeys/I-038683.html?cgpath=brands-goto#start=1" target="_blank">Exfoliating Swipeys</a> x Go-To: Who is surprised to see these here? Nobody? Thought so. I use these three times a week-as directed to give my skin a bit of a szush and a brighten. Unlike other acid products I have tried, these don't feel overly harsh or abrasive. In fact, they're incredibly gentle and a treat to use. Myself and my face love 'em.</div>
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*<a href="http://lonelylabel.com/" target="_blank">Lonely Lingerie</a>: My love of Lonely lingerie is well documented around these parts. I love everything about the brand; from their inclusiveness when it comes to sizes, the diversity in their advertising+social media imagery, to the genuinely lovely experience of going in store to browse and purchase. Not to mention the quality of their garments and the care+detail in each piece. I've already decided I need some of their swimwear in my life next Summer. Anyway, recently I treated myself to <a href="https://lonelylabel.com/products/maeve-br17315d?taxon_id=11" target="_blank">the Maeve</a> bra and <a href="https://lonelylabel.com/products/odette-br19215b?taxon_id=11" target="_blank">Odette.</a> Both quite different designs, both incredibly comfortable and supportive to wear. I think I'm going to get another colour of the Odette because it is that comfortable too. </div>
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*<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8682948/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Act</a> (limited series on Lightbox): Omg this series. Who remembers the viral Buzzfeed article about Gypsy Rose and Dee Dee Blanchard? I remember reading it equal parts fascinated and horrified so when I saw that Hulu had made a new series re-enacting Gypsy and Dee Dee's story, the same feelings returned. The women are portrayed by Joey King and Patricia Arquette, the latter who is unrecognisable as Dee Dee and gives an incredible performance. The whole show is a psychological mind-maze and leaves you feeling uneasy and unnerved. I'm not going to lie. It's such a good watch though. I highly recommend it. </div>
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*<a href="https://www.jbhifi.co.nz/popular/love-fear/363480/" target="_blank">Love+Fear</a> x Marina: Last year was the year of rediscovering Lana Del Rey and 2019 seems to be the year of rediscovering Marina, formerly Marina and the Diamonds. Her new double-album debuted in full this week and it is <b>heaven</b>. Handmade, ha I am so punny. I feel like this will be my new go-to at work when I want to zone out.</div>
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<b>-</b>Solo Outings: Long weekends are my fave because Auckland clears out and it's quiet and blissful everywhere. It's usually these times that I try to go a bit off the grid myself and I love it. So for my solo-date arvo I went to the <u>Auckland Art Gallery</u> and visited the <a href="https://www.aucklandartgallery.com/whats-on/exhibition/guerrilla-girls-reinventing-the-f-word-feminism" target="_blank">Guerrilla Girls</a> exhibit which I <i>loved</i> as well as <a href="https://www.aucklandartgallery.com/whats-on/exhibition/pacific-sisters" target="_blank">Pacific Sisters</a>. Both are free entry and well worth the look. The gallery is free to NZ citizens too, you just need ID to get in. I followed it with coffee+a bit of a Ponsonby Rd jaunt to acquire the latest <a href="https://www.magnation.co.nz/product/the-gentlewoman/" target="_blank">The Gentlewoman</a> and groceries (less exciting tbh) before heading back home. Utter. Utter. Bliss. </div>
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<b>-</b>Between Two Books x Stylist Magazine: The lovely Leah, one of the co-founders at Between Two Books asked me if I wanted to share a book recommendation for this article and I was so honoured+excited to be included. To the point I sent screen-shots to people who were like "?? Sophie, risque book cover-I am confused". Anyway, I am still proud as punch to be a part of this so if you want to see my review, it's the one about <u>Eve's Hollywood</u> x Eve Babitz and you can read the whole article <a href="https://www.stylist.co.uk/fashion/style-list/book-club-recommendations-florence-welch/260394?fbclid=IwAR0zpq2zs1tlZbTLLn5Ic4-CYtofUhGCmsZ1Ii7XrKKAnyxI1ZtXXwRxVVw" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<b>-</b>Reassessing Self Care: Ah self care, you <i>really</i> slipped to the backburner didn't you? And it showed. I always, always know now that if I don't prioritise this my mental wellbeing suffers. I become unsettled and tired and it gets ug-ly. So mid April I made some changes. I have pamper Sundays-that's just one thing. I've also reinstated daily (ish) diary writing. Ok some days it is just a bullet pointed list but I try to not dwell on it-so long as I write something. I've also been reading a lot because that also falls to the wayside when I am feeling 'eh' and going for walks and talking to the professionals, well professional. Yep.</div>
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<b>-</b>Meeting Zoe Foster Blake and trying all the Go-To bits: I've already yammered on about Go-To's arrival in NZ but when the email came through about an in-store event celebrating the brand and bringing skincare queen+writing wordstress Zoe, I was in. Side note: Zoe is just as lovely and sparkly and perfect-complexiony in real life. It was a good evening w/ my girl Lucie-who also let my disorganised self raid her makeup bag. Thanks Luce, you are the MVP. I also got to hang out in the Beauty Lab and try all the Go-To things. Well, most of 'em. I particularly loved the Face Hero and the Very Useful Face Cream. </div>
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<b>-</b>Music: I'm about to sound like a right luddite but my new phone plan came with free Spotify Premium, which I used to have ages ago and my god. Game. Changer. I am sure 99% of my phone usage now is Spotify. Go ahead, laugh at me. I have two playlists of my own I rotate fairly heavily but I also dabble in whatever the heck I fancy and whatever my friends recommend to me. New discovery: Two Door Cinema Club. I love 'em. Also loving all the throwback 00's music playlists-for the memories and the cringe-inducing moments c/o my tra$h tastes. I love it basically. </div>
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<b><u>Books I Read In April</u>:</b></div>
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/ <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/fiction-daisy-jones-and-the-six--5?barcode=9781786331519&search_key=daisy+jones" target="_blank">Daisy Jones & The Six</a>** x Taylor Jenkins Reid, review <a href="http://www.nanawintour.com/2019/04/daisy-jones-six.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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/ Spring x Ali Smith, as above.</div>
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/ <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/biography-memoir-notes-to-self--7?barcode=9780241393642&search_key=emilie+pine" target="_blank">Notes To Self</a> x Emilie Pine: Gut-wrenching, honest and incredibly enlighening prose. Read it and prepare to weep. In the best way.</div>
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/ <a href="https://www.bookdepository.com/Audience-Peter-Morgan/9780571326624?ref=grid-view&qid=1556435062244&sr=1-1/?a_aid=nanawintour" target="_blank">The Audience</a> x Peter Morgan: I don't read plays all that often but I wanted to read this one so I could decide if I should go see <a href="https://www.atc.co.nz/auckland-theatre-company/2018-19/the-audience/" target="_blank">this</a> at the ASB Theatre here in Auckland. I am a major <u>The Crown</u> fangirl and noticed that some of the dialogue from this play closely mirrors scenes shown in the series. Particularly exchanges between Churchill and the Queen. Anyway, now I want to see this so fingers crossed I can make it happen.</div>
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/ <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/poetry-three-poems--5?barcode=9780571337675&search_key=hannah+sullivan" target="_blank">Three Poems</a> x Hannah Sullivan: What is it with me and reading books that are emotionally heavy? These poems made me <i>cry. </i>Dang it Sullivan. In all seriousness-read, beautiful work.</div>
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/ <a href="https://shop.timeout.co.nz/p/poetry-the-built-moment--2?barcode=9780571347100&search_key=lavinia+gree" target="_blank">The Built Moment</a> x Lavinia Greenlaw: A volume that deals with loss and grief and rebuilding. Exquisitely written, as is the norm with Lavinia Greenlaw. I love her writing. </div>
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-What have you loved during April?</div>
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<i>**Review Copy</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-42773205619892647302019-04-24T22:14:00.001+12:002019-04-24T22:14:57.212+12:00Spring in Translation<br />
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Ali Smith's seasonal quartet is slowly taking full shape. Ideas are fleshed out, twisted and prised wide open. Covers standing vibrant in all their David Hockney gloriousness. </div>
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<a href="http://www.unitybooksonline.co.nz/fiction-and-poetry/world-fiction/spring-1" target="_blank">Spring</a>, the paperback was pressed into my hands. It promised to bring change and contemplation. Renewal and reformation. It is never lost on me that the seasonal quartet will always starkly contradict whatever is reflected season-wise here in New Zealand. I read Winter in the height of Summer, pages warped by the sun, for example. Spring was read in the early stages of Autumn. It will remind me of early mornings on the way to work. The sun beginning to rise and me trying+sometimes failing to keep my eyes open. </div>
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It is a book further considering loss and political climates and art and the 'radiant disruptors' as Olivia Laing so aptly puts it. It pays homage to Katherine Mansfield, the "little savage", Charlie Chaplin, Rilke, Tacita Dean, among others. Florence Welch even receives a subtle nod. Cue me photographing said passage and excitedly sharing it around. </div>
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It makes sense to have read Spring alongside a book about <a href="https://www.bookdepository.com/This-Little-Art-Kate-Briggs/9781910695456?ref=grid-view&qid=1556100762954&sr=1-1/?a_aid=nanawintour" target="_blank">literary translation</a>. Mining texts for meaning, ideas and repeated motifs. Smith's seasonal quartet reflects the seasons in the time we presently live in. They leave us to mull over the here and now but moreover what they represent thematically in Smith's literature. For her characters, real and imagined. Moreover, the seasonal framework naturally wraps itself around the recurring themes and motifs throughout Ali's work.</div>
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And maybe unearthing meaning in the pages of my books is the new mood. I will keep you posted.</div>
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nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6712948977780306797.post-42989171625651241872019-04-17T22:20:00.001+12:002019-04-17T22:20:54.052+12:00Go-To Mecca<br />
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My favourite, no-fuss, no frills skincare brand has finally come to NZ! Well, we could always acquire Go-To skincare online <i>but</i> now it has arrived in good ol' New Zealand and Australia Mecca stores. Huzzah.</div>
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To celebrate, I wept-ok I didn't, but I did book in for Zoe's little whirlwind visit to Auckland to launch the brand. It was a night of learning-I visited the beauty lab to try all the skincare bits 'n bobs and of course fangirling. I am the ultimate Zoe Foster-Blake fangirl after all. Zero shame here. Good times-it was the icing on top of an otherwise 'eh' week so it has that going for it too. So today I thought I'd run you through what I picked up and also some extras I have tried that you should check out. This post is in no way sponsored but I have received some Go-To product before for review so those are asterisked up below. Anyway, bits...</div>
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<b>The New (To Me):</b></div>
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<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/go-to/exfoliating-swipeys/I-038683.html?cgpath=brands-goto" target="_blank">Exfoliating Swipeys</a>: These are filling the exfoliating void in my skincare regime and I love 'em. For an exfoliating product they are super, super gentle which I love. I know a bit of tingling with products like this is kinda part and parcel but I don't like my skin to feel tight or to be stinging after using an exfoliator. They also have a subtle, citrussy scent which I am here for. Pro tip: Follow up with an SPF because these do contain an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) which may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and with our less-than-lovely ozone layer, that ain't a good thing. </div>
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<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/go-to/transformazing-1-pack/I-038689.html?cgpath=brands-goto" target="_blank">Transformazing</a>-Ahh the ol' sheet mask. I will be honest, I don't <i>love </i>them. I appreciate them but I don't love 'em. This one's being saved for a Sunday pamper sesh so it cannot be reported on <i>yet</i>. Anything promising to make my skin look amazing is going to get my attention though.</div>
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<b>The Tried 'N True:</b></div>
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<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/go-to/super-handy/I-038687.html?cgpath=brands-goto" target="_blank">Super Handy</a>*: Side note, Sophie-get more of this. You need it at work for your dehydrated, hand-sanitised mitts. Narcissistic to-do lists out of the way, I <i>love</i> this hand cream. Similarly delightfully citrus-fragranced as per the swipeys. A dream to use, sinks in-none of that greasy leftover residue that some hand creams seem to cause. You cannot go wrong. And it's in a convenient tube for traveling with.</div>
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<a href="https://www.meccabeauty.co.nz/go-to/pinky-nudey-lips/I-038681.html?cgpath=brands-goto" target="_blank">Pinky Nudey Lips</a>: All this and a hint of tint. Basically this does what it says on the tube. Your lips will be hydrated, soft and nourished. One product to keep things in check this Winter. For. Sure.</div>
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-Have you tried Go-To before? What do you rate+recommend?</div>
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<i>*PR Sample (way back when)</i></div>
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<br />nanawintourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03737374028224470166noreply@blogger.com0