FRIDAY FIVE

1. Album I've been listening to:  By the way, I forgive you by Brandi Carlile

An earthy voice paired with an emotional topic. This album fills me up. I've only scraped the surface of what this album and Brandi have to offer, but I can't wait to dive deeper.

2. Quote I've been pondering: "The reward for attention is always healing." - Julia Cameron

3. Book I've been reading: Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell's writing about teenage first love is striking and poignant. It was such a raw, emotional read for me. I love the characters and Rainbow's prose was beautiful. And all of the feelings. And yeah. It was beautiful. Great read. A definite language warning is warranted, though.

4. New phone app I'm enjoying: Light Alarm (Free)

I haven't brought myself to pay for the full app yet, but I'm experimenting with the free version for now. This app lets you set your alarm and it will walk you up gradually with bird chirping, or chimes, or crickets (I'm sure there are more options on the full version). It will also use your flashlight and your phone screen to gradually brighten your room. This has helped my mornings be a bit better and a little less alarming (haha see what I did there). I realize there are alarm clocks that do a much better job of the gradual lighting and sound thing, but I can't afford that right now. So this'll have to do for a bit.

5. Video I was reminded of that brings delight and joy to all: Madeline Kahn and Grover on Sesame Street. Madeline Kahn is a goddess. Not only is she a comedic genius in movies like What's Up Doc? and Clue  but she can also sing gloriously. It truly isn't fair. I love her. And I love Sesame Street.