This all started back in 2007 when Alivicwil and I set out to read 50 books in a year. I ended up reading 54 in total.  So in 2008 I decided I would try and read 60 books.  I didn’t make it.  I again set the challenge in 2009 and once again I didn’t reach the magical number.

I love the challenge (and I love reading) so I’m determined to get to 60.  Hopefully 2010 will be the year.

Goal: In 2010 I will read 60 books throughout the year.

Here’s the list so far:

1. New Moon, Stephanie Meyer – January 2 2010
2. Eclipse, Stephanie Meyer – January 2 2010
3. Breaking Dawn, Stephanie Meyer – January 5 2010
4. Taronga, Victor Keller – January 11 2010
5. The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupery – January 13 2010
6. The Beach House, Jane Green – January 18 2010
7. What She Wants, Cathy Kelly – January 30 2010
8. Bending the Rules, Susan Andersen – February 26 2010
9. Skintight, Susan Andersen – February 28 2010
10. How to Lose an Extraterrestrial in Ten Days, Susan Grant – March 4 2010 10 completed – 50 to go
11. Vampire Academy, Richelle Mead – March 10 2010
12. Frostbite, Richelle Mead – March 12 2010
13. Shadow Kiss, Richelle Mead – March 14 2010
14. The Better Part of Darkness, Kelly Gay – April 6 2010
15. Steamed, Katie MacAlister – April 29 2010
16. Blonde with a Wand, Vicki Lewis Thompson - May 3 2010
17. Chick with a Charm, Vicki Lewis Thompson - May 6 2010
18. yet to be read…
19. yet to be read… 20 completed – 40 to go
20. yet to be read…
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29. yet to be read… 30 completed – 30 to go – HALF WAY THERE!
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39. yet to be read… 40 completed – 20 to go
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49. yet to be read…50 completed – 10 to go
50. yet to be read…
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58. yet to be read…59 completed – 1 to go
59. yet to be read…

• that’s 60 folks!

Number of books read in a month:

7 x January

2 x February

4 x March

2 x April

? x May

? x June

? x July

? x August

? x September

? x October

? x November

? x December

Wonder where I find these literary masterpieces? Wonder no more…. clicky

I’m playing it fast and loose with today’s Friday Fancies.  Normally I try and stick to a theme, but today’s theme is all about things I like.  That’s it.  So enjoy.

A. Rufus – This little guy is just so adorable.  He’s made by The Vintage Magpie (the blog is a must see!).  He reminds me of Basil Brush, only without the double entendre.

B. What’s Up Chicken Butt? – I’d love a set of these cards.  What a great way to stay in touch with a bit of a laugh and some cool graphics.

C. Cast Metal Animals – Love these little animals.  I’m not a big fan of traditional style bookends, but these little critters would make the nicest little touch to a stack of books.  I couldn’t decide which one I liked most so I’d just have to get all three…

D. Milk – I’m still not able to drink milk like I used to and it’s still bumming me out.  But I’d totally love to get this card and frame it.  The colour combination is great, and it’s one that I’m really crushing on at the moment.  I’m even thinking about using it as the basis for my next adventure with crochet.

E. Funky Swirl Cupcake Liners – I recently picked up a copy of the Country Woman’s Association’s cookbook and I’ve been dying to try out some of their sweet recipes.  These cupcake liners would be a great accompaniment to the yumminess that is a traditional country recipe!

F. Snuggle Up – I’m starting to think I have a thing for bunny art.  I would love to add this to my collection.  Those little cotton tails are just so cute.

G. Scherenschnitte Ringer Tee – My love of t-shirts is not dissipating with time, and these great shirts are not helping the cause either.  Such sweet motifs and great colour combination with a vintage feel.  I want them all!

H. Valentine – I love garnet and I love upcycling.  I also love love *wink* so what better way to acknowledge all of that then with this beautiful piece of jewelry.  I’m really loving all the jewelry that’s popping up at the moment made from cutlery.  It’s such a great way to take some amazing flatware outside of just the dining room.

1. How to Crochet a Blanket, 2. Mitsy’s crocheted babuschka’s, 3. Heart Burst Crochet Rug, 4. Multicoloured Crocheted Bag

I happened to stumble across something rather cool this week and I’m either sociably late to the party or nerd cringingly earlier.  I’ll let you decide which.  Awhile back I featured an artists work in one of my Friday Fancies, I didn’t know it at the time but the artist also has a rather awesome blog; ArtMind.  I’ve spent a few quiet moments today drooling over the pictures and words and thought I would take up the weekly challenge that is set on ArtMind and put together some of my Flickr Faves for the past week.

As you can tell I’m in a crocheting frame of mind this week.  I’ve been diligently working away on my first ever crochet project, however I’ve still managed to find some time to squeeze in some web snooping to see what others have been working on.  I’m such a big fan of colour.  Sometimes I feel like I’d love to live in a rainbow… or better yet the spot where the rainbow meets the earth and all the colours pool out.  Such vibrant colours can’t help but lift the darkness that the rain has brought.

It’s also been Valentine’s Day this week and I’ve been thinking about the hunk o’hunk burning love that is HUBBY.  We’re rapidly approaching our 5th Wedding Anniversary.  While it’s only a small milestone when compared to the likes of both of our parents who have a total of 76 years of wedded bliss between them, it’s still a big achievement for us.  (I suspect more so for HUBBY as he’s married to me, but I won’t be telling him that!)  We don’t really “do” Valentine’s Day (which is lucky for him as he went to an AFL match with some of the lads on Sunday!) but we do enjoy telling each other that we love and appreciate the other.  It’s nice to be in a house where “I love you” is said so often.

So that’s been my week in photo’s.  It’s been a good one, despite the rather large personal issue that’s hanging over our heads at the moment.  But then I guess the test of a real relationship and human spirit is the ability to laugh when things aren’t rosy, and in this house we’ve been positively pissing ourselves – so that’s a good sign.

Just over one week until Valentine’s Day, and while a large portion of my sensibility sees this “holiday” as nothing more than a way for commercialism to run rampant; another smaller part of me kind of digs the idea of people around the world embracing love for a day and doing something special to confess their feelings.  I mean, really, who doesn’t love a good love story.  As the Ninja once said “I love love!”.

1. February – Ironically this symbol of old maid-hood has been reinvented as a messenger of love.  Such a sweet way to tell someone you heart them.

2. Beloved Necklace – I have a special love of keys; they hold the power to so many secrets.  I would adore being given this special key.  The key to my love… or old school, my heart.  What secrets would it unlock?

3. Red Polka Dot Ribbon Wreath – Every Christmas I hang our special Christmas wreath on our front door and it brings me no end of cheer.  Every year when I take it down I lament the fact that we don’t have an ‘everyday’ front door wreath.  I’m currently toying with the idea of making my own version, but I can’t help lusting after the work of others.  A wreath for every month would be divine.  This would definitely be on my wish list for February.

4. Mr Darcy Proposal Mug – *swoon* Oh Mr Darcy you are responsible for so much of my teenage angst.  To add to it, there’s the delectable Colin Firth in a wet shirt exiting an English pond.

5. Lovely Day Valentine’s Day Card – When you have to pen your message of love, what better medium to carry that message than a Belle & Boo card.  This wonderful whimsical card would make anyone sigh with love.   Excuse me while I have a wee moment.

6. February in Writing – I imagine that she has just received a message of love from her secret admirer and she can still smell his aftershave on the paper.  Or maybe that’s just another daydream for another time.  Whatever you see in this you can’t deny it’s a sweet moment.

And because I love you all, my gift to you…

Mr Darcy – the original, the wannabe and the recreation.

Well with the end of 2009 it’s time to do a final count and see whether I hit my target of 60 books in 2009.  Unfortunately I managed to read 49 books instead of the 60 I was aiming for.  I seem to lose some steam towards the middle of the year and it’s been hard to get that back in the final months of the year, despite the large amount of time I spent in bed or hospital.  Oh well, it’s just given me something to aim towards in 2010.

In 2007 I set myself a challenge to read 50 books in a year. I ended up reading 54 in total.

In 2008 I set myself a challenge to read 60 books in a year. I ended up reading 50 in total.

I love the challenge and I’m determined to get to 60 so I’ve set the goal again.

Goal: In 2009 I will read 60 books in the year.

Here’s the list so far:

1. The Kitchen Witch, Annette Blair – January 14 2009
2. My Favourite Witch, Annette Blair – January 17 2009
3. An Undeniable Rogue, Annette Blair – January 22 2009
4. The Girl Most Likely To…, Susan Donovan – January 27 2009
5. Drop Dead, Gorgeous, Mary Janice Davidson – January 31 2009
6. A Veiled Deception, Annette Blair – February 1 2009
7. Slippery When Wet, Kimberly Raye – February 8 2009
8. Highlander in Her Bed, Allie McKay – February 12 2009
9. Fish Out of Water, Mary Janice Davidson – February 22 2009
10. Your Planet or Mine?, Susan Grant – February 23 200910 completed – 50 to go
11. The Dream Hunter, Sherrilyn Kenyon – February 26 2009
12. Undead and Unworthy, Mary Janice Davidson – March 5 2009
13. Slave to Sensation, Nalini Singh – March 7 2009
14. Night’s Cold Kiss, Tracel O’Hara – March 10 2009
15. Crimson City, Liz Maverick – March 16 2009
16. Fantasy Lover, Sherrilyn Kenyon – March 21 2009
17. Dragonswan, Sherrilyn Kenyon – March 22 2009 & Angel’s Pawn, Nalini Singh – March 5 2009
18. Bad Boys in Kilts, Donna Kauffman – April 2 2009
19. Real Murders, Charlaine Harris – April 4 2009
20. Night Pleasures, Sherrilyn Kenyon – April 20 200920 completed – 40 to go
21. The Big Bad Wolf Tells All, Donna Kauffman – April 20 2009
22. Night Embrace, Sherrilyn Kenyon – May 11 2009
23. Visions of Heat, Nalini Singh – May 15 2009
24. Caressed by Ice, Nalini Singh – May 25 2009
25. Mine to Possess, Nalini Singh – May 29 2009
26. Hostage to Pleasure, Nalini Singh – June 1 2009
27. Angel’s Blood, Nalini Singh – June 7 2009
28. My Favourite Earthling, Susan Grant – June 9 2009
29. Dance with the Devil, Sherrilyn Kenyon – July 25 2009
30. Kiss of the Night, Sherrilyn Kenyon – July 29 200930 completed – 30 to go – HALF WAY THERE!
31. Night Play, Sherrilyn Kenyon – August 2 2009
32. Seize the Night, Sherrilyn Kenyon – August 14 2009
33. Sins of the Night, Sherrilyn Kenyon – August 28 2009
34. Acheron, Sherrilyn Kenyon – September 12 2009
35. Twilight, Stephanie Meyers – September 16 2009
36. Sucker for Love, Kimberly Raye – September 18 2009
37. Branded by Fire, Nalini Singh – September 22 2009
38. Devil May Cry, Sherrilyn Kenyon – October 4 2009
39. Stuck, Elisabeth Rose – October 27 2009
40. Friday Night Knitting Club, Kate Jacobs – October 28 200940 completed – 20 to go
41. The Time Travelers Wife, Audrey Niffenegger – November 12 2009
42. Fanged & Fabulous, Michelle Rowan – November 15 2009
43. The Memory Keepers Daughter, Kim Edwards – November 22 2009
44. Dream Chaser, Sherrilyn Kenyon – December 1 2009
45. Dark Side of the Moon, Sherrilyn Kenyon – December 7 2009
46. The Wife’s Tale, Lori Lansens – December 9 2009
47. Upon the Midnight Clear, Sherrilyn Kenyon – December 10 2009
48. Under the Dome, Stephen King – December 26 2009
49. Blaze of Memory, Nalini Singh – December 29 2009
50. yet to be read…50 completed – 10 to go
51. yet to be read…
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54. yet to be read…
55. yet to be read…
56. yet to be read…
57. yet to be read…
58. yet to be read…
59. yet to be read…59 completed – 1 to go
60. yet to be read…

• that’s 60 folks!

Number of books read in a month:

5 x January

6 x February

6 x March

4 x April

4 x May

3 x June

2 x July

3 x August

4 x September

3 x October

3 x November

6 x December

Wonder where I find these literary masterpieces? Wonder no more…. clicky

When things aren’t going well I can always count on my teddy bear to be there for me.  So this week I thought I’d give you my top five teddy bears.

1. Gund – HUBBY’s nickname at high school used to be Schlep – I don’t know why… it’s a boy thing… I think.  One day we were out shopping and I made him stop into one of my favourite stores The Teddy Bear Shop.  Inside we saw Schlep.  It was love at first sight for me, but I left him in the store because I couldn’t justify spending the money on a teddy bear.  (I’m supposed to be a grown up, remember?)  On our first Valentine’s Day together HUBBY surprised me with Schlep.  I’ve cherished him ever since.  Whenever I need hugs I know I can rely on both of my Schleps.

2. Nici – When I was diagnosed with PCOS four years ago and there was talking that I was going to have to have a laparoscopy I splurged on this little guy to help cheer me up.  He has his own little belly button just ripe for the insertion of a laparoscope.

3. Me to You – Everyone loves a tatty teddy.  The colour scheme wouldn’t be a traditional choice for teddy bears which is why they’re so great.  I love their little blue noses.

4. Keel Toys – While I was in Cambridge last year I was a little bit home sick for my HUBBY and puppies so one day while I was out perusing the local stores I came across Toby, the American Beagle.  Cue massive homesickness and Toby came to live with me.  Toby is much less maintenance than George!

5.  Big Ted – The first bear in my life.  Big Ted stars on Play School, an Australian children program on the ABC.  Big Ted isn’t the only bear on the show, there’s also Little Ted.  I can’t remember properly, but I think a few years ago Big Ted turned 40.  Forty years in teddy bear is a long time, especially to have not lost an ear or worn a hole in your stitching.  Hopefully Big Ted and Little Ted will be entertaining children for another 40 years to come.

September in Australia is Book Month, so to celebrate and encourage more reading Bookthingo have been hosting a reading challenge.  The goal is to read as many books from a set of challenges, or make up your own.

Books Alive 2009 is an initiative by the Australian Government and proceeds go to support the Indigenous Literacy Project.  It’s one of the many great initiatives by the Australian Government that are out there at the moment.  I can’t think of an easier, or more enjoyable, way to support a great cause than be getting comfortable in your favourite spot and kicking back with a great book.

I have a reading challenge already for 2009, but I thought I would incorporate this challenge as well as it complimented what I was already trying to do.  So I’ve been busily trying to read as many books this month as possible.  Not an easy feat when I’m spread so thin at the moment with everything else, but I’m hanging in there.

My reading list so far:

1. Acheron, Sherrilyn Kenyon – September 12 2009
2. Twilight, Stephanie Meyers – September 16 2009
3. Sucker for Love, Kimberly Raye – September 18 2009
4. Branded by Fire, Nalini Singh – September 22 2009

Not as impressive as some reading lists that are on the challenge, but I’m punching through my massive to-be-read list.  Who knows, I may even manage to finish a book or two this weekend.  Either way I’ve had fun, and it’s given me the reading motivation I was lacking.

Before you all think I’ve gone a little bit sappy due to the Best Wedding Entrance Ever post know this – I adore weddings.  But not for the traditional reasons.  I adore them for the artistry involved in them, from the flowers, to the fashion and the culinary masterpieces.  I love them.  I love them for the way they showcase the best of what makes as humans and individuals.  Each wedding is like a little peak into a perfect world of beauty.  (Ok, with the exception of the weddings you see on Bridezilla!)  So when I need a little positivity in my life and I want some eye candy to remind me of all the is good in the world I head on over to…

It is just brimming with some of the most gorgeous imagery, ideas and tales of romance that you can find on the internet.  It helps me fill in the elaborate details of my fantasy life where I’m 6 foot tall, blond, a size 0, richer then The Donald and marrying Jensen Ackles!  It’s the accessory that every girl needs, regardless of your marital status.

Just take a look at a small sample of some of the wedding imagery you can find on there..

So there you have it, my guilty little pleasure.  Now you know the secret to a stunning fantasy life head on over to Style Me Pretty – The Ultimate Wedding Blog and get daydreaming!

PS. It might also give you some fabulous ideas for your next party or, heaven forbid, your own wedding!

I don’t often get sentimental over things.  I’m not a person that cries in movies or at weddings or christenings or the dentist’s, but this morning this video had me shedding a few little tears of happiness and grinning like a crazy love sick fool.

Normally you see the choreographed wedding dance as the place where the couple sometimes express their individuality.  (Like this Thriller inspired dance number or maybe this dance off between the bridal party or for the true romantics Dirty Dancing Wedding Dance.) But rarely do you see an entrance like this one.  It’s brilliant!  If only we were getting married again!

Actually no, we’d never have the guts or the friends to pull off something like this.  So for today I shall live vicariously through this wonderful couple.  Enjoy!

He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven

HAD I the heavens’ embroidered cloths,
Enwrought with golden and silver light,
The blue and the dim and the dark cloths
Of night and light and the half-light,
I would spread the cloths under your feet:
But I, being poor, have only my dreams;
I have spread my dreams under your feet;
Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.

W.B Yeats

Image courtesy of rgurney.