madameblogalot

Better late than never! Here is my August Hit or Miss list:

The Bible of Clay: I started this book earlier this year and had a hard time staying in it. When I finally tackled it this summer, I did not do much back reading. Once I had the time to devote to reading it regularly, I really enjoyed the book. It is told in flashback as well as current time and involves twists and mystery. The story was good and I looked forward to reading it every day. I enjoyed it up to the last page or two. I did not like the ending as it left everything open, though I guess I can see why the author did it that way. Overall though, I would rate it as a HIT.

Phantom of the Opera, the movie: Since my daughter and I wanted to see the play again, when I saw this DVD at the store, I snatched it up. We watched it that night. We both really enjoyed it. It helped us to get the stage story a bit more. My daughter said the phantom in the film sings better than the phantom on the stage, so she liked it better. The music was great! We both called this a HIT.

Knowing: My son picked out this sci-fi thriller. I was a bit skeptical and as we watched through it; there were some pretty intense and creepy parts. My daughter ended up leaving before the show was over. The show brought out some really great themes and prompted great discussion afterward. We all (except for my daughter) called this one a HIT for the story, the acting and the special effects. We also enjoyed watching the special features on the DVD.

Third Coast Comedy: You can see my thoughts on this local improv show in previous posts. This was a HIT for all of us!

Bank on Yourself: This book was given to us by our college planning advisor. I did not read the entire book, I skipped most of the personal stories in the middle of the book as I did not feel like they applied to me. Perhaps this book was neither a HIT or MISS for me as it presents an interesting concept in how to save and recapture all the money you spend yet I am not sure how to implement it yet. Basically it is good for those who are willing and able to make monthly payments on items. We don’t nor can we afford to, so as of right now the information is not helpful. Perhaps one day…

In these times it seems we all need a little up-lift. I came across an event that will take place in Sun Valley Idaho Sept. 18-20 which will present films to lift the spirit. The Sun Valley Spiritual Film Festival is a “celebration of human spirituality through film.” It serves to explore spiritual traditions throughout the world and promote the making of such films. The films include everything from Buddhist Blessings to Cracking the Cosmic Egg to Cowboy Yoga!

More than just films will be offered at the Festival. You can find other events to renew your spirit as well as listen to speakers. Those slated to speak include Stephen Simon, Brendon McQueen, Jeffrey Azize, Brett Morris and Jim Walsh, CEO of intentional chocolate. Mr. Walsh is considered one of the world’s leading experts on food and is widely published and quoted in newspapers, journals, TV and radio. Walsh has also served as Chairman of the Board of Hawaiian Vintage Chocolate since 1992 and Intentional Chocolate since 2007. Walsh’s involvements are dedicated to the single objective of creating products that nourish both body and spirit to improve the quality of life for all beings.

For a look into uplifting and hope-building ideas, the SVSFF may provide a retreat for those seeking a little more than the day to day hum-drum existence. For a sneak peek, watch the video below: