Well they said it couldn't be done! But here I am learning the game of Mah Jongg! I have a wonderful group of women who teach and play the game with this loony beginner. They provide the patience and knowledge, and I provide the comic relief. Kudos to these special and fun women.
I have also started reading again. Haven't had the desire or focus for a very long while. Just finished Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng. It's a novel about race, class, and family dynamics. Although this came highly recommended, I wasn't wowed.
Next on my list is: Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan.
The Best of Us by Joyce Maynard
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
A Walk in The Woods by Bill Bryson
In addition to enriching my life with games and books, I recently went to The Metropolitan Museum of Art to see several fabulous exhibits. We loved the David Hockney exhibit which featured his paintings, drawings, photography, and renown jewel toned landscapes. It was amazing.
Next we ventured over to the Michelangelo exhibit which is once in a lifetime opportunity. You really need several days to conquer all his works-it is overwhelming and impossible to cover in a day.
While touring the museum, we saw beautiful Rodin sculptures including The Thinker (Think opening song of Dobie Gillis!). And before we left, I was compelled to sneak a peek at the Leonardo to Matisse exhibit which I thoroughly enjoyed as well. This featured European artists from the Renaissance to early 20th Century. The art of da Vinci, Rembrandt, Seurat, Matisse, and many others were on display and breathtaking-Don't miss this exhibit. You will need several days to cover all of these exhibits. I strongly recommend a weekday morning versus the weekend which has long lines of patrons waiting to get inside.
Ok, so I have covered games, books, and museum exhibits.
Now for my movie and television picks.
Recently I have seen Lady Bird, Three Billboards, and The Shape of Water. All three are exceptional movies that I strongly recommend. Lady Bird is a coming of age movie with a home run directorial debut by Greta Gerwig. If you have daughters, this is a must see. Three Billboards was one of the ten best movies I have ever seen. A bold statement, I know, but the acting was stellar. Woody Harrelson, Frances McDormand, and Sam Rockwell were mesmerizing to watch. I was sorry when this film ended. And Finally, The Shape of Water, starring Sally Hawkins, is a wonder to watch. She is nothing less than spectacular in this role. The cinematography is breathtaking-each frame a masterpiece. LOVED.
Next on my list is: Star Wars (of course), Wonder Wheel which got horrid reviews; The Post; I, Tonya and Call Me By Your Name which is getting rave reviews. I know what I will be doing this weekend!
On the telly, I finished the second season of The Crown which was very juicy and even better than the first season. You gain a lot of insight into His Royal Highness, Phillip and Queen Elizabeth. Well done!
HBO's new series, SMILF is written beautifully. It's about a single mom trying to balance work, sex, childcare, etc. Rosie O'Donnell as Brigette's (Frankie Shaw-the creator) is perfection. Check it out-very worth it.
Next on my list: The Hand Maid's Tale.
Wishing All of You a Very Happy and Healthy New Year-See you in 2018!
