I’ve been having quite the month. Lots of exciting/intersting things happening. In the middle of that though, I have found a new musical gem to keep me company.

Meet miss Lucy Rose.
She lives in London and is the latest addition to my “favorite artists list.” Lucy is currently working on her debut album—I can’t wait! Her voice, the honest lyrics and the effortless way she delivers each line, are completely mesmerizing. I truthfully can’t stop listening.

These videos are from a set she did in 2011, for AllSaints Basement Sessions. So wonderful. Take a listen, you’ll see what I mean.

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Lucy Rose — Scar

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Lucy Rose — Middle of the Bed

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Lucy Rose — Red Face 

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Kimbra is a New Zealand artist, based in Australia. She’s just so good. Give it a listen and fall in love.

Enjoy these couple of quirky and lyrically rich tunes. Also, the videos are just brilliant!

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Kimbra — Settle Down
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve listen to this song, or how many nights I’ve dance in room in front of the mirror. So good. P.S. I may break out these moves tonight.
 

Kimbra —  Cameo Lover
All the fun colors remind me of my dear friend Erin.
 

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I really liked this little 411 video about her album “Vows.” Take a look.

I’ve been having this feeling… how to describe it?

It’s something to do with freedom, letting go, moving, growing, creating… can’t really put my finger on it, and maybe I don’t want to figure it out just yet, because it feels so good and empowering, in an odd way. It’s not a “new year’s resolution” because I flat out don’t believe in them. Like a favorite vlogger of mine said, “it’s kind of an opportunity for everyone to communally fail at something.” I agree.  The one thing I do know is that I am ready, READY, to let go of relationships/situations/habits/fears/setbacks that tend to bring me down. I’m ready energize to my life again.

Perhaps in someone’s dictionary that qualifies as a “resolution,” but to me it represents a wake up call. We aren’t eternal. You and I know that. So, I say farewell to everyone and everything that bums me out. I have better things to do. A long list actually.

It’s time to wake up and smell the freaking roses.

Of course, a song had to accompany this true sentiment, and Mr. Wally AKA Gotye already thought of it. I’ve been listening to this song since last  summer, and now it just clicks. I love when that happens. Turn the volume up. Push play. Do it again.

Gotye — Somebody That I Used to Know (feat. Kimbra)
 

Happy Friday! Here’s to the weekend ahead! xo

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2011 introduced a lot of “new artists” that in reality, have been working for years. It was this year though, when they really came out full force, and made us fall in love with them one note at a time.

GIVE ‘EM A LISTEN!

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James Vincent McMorrow
I came across his music in early March, and became an instant fan. I was lucky to see him live when he stopped in Portland, while on tour with The Civil Wars. The audience was completely enchanted with him from the first note of his opening set, til the end. He’s such a humble, funny, and talented guy. Hope to see him again.

James Vincent McMorrow — Follow You Down to the Red Oak Tree

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Andrew Belle
I can’t quite put my finger on when I became a Mr. Belle believer. I’ve had fun getting to know his music, and follow his kitchen adventures online. He was in Oregon earlier this year, but it turned out I couldn’t attend. 2012 will have to be the year! That’s also when he will hopefully be coming out with new music… I can’t wait!

Andrew Belle — The Ladder

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Canon Blue
I honestly lose track of time and space, every single time I listen to Canon Blue. In my opinion, there should be a warning label on his album. “Listening will make you daydream. You may or may not remember what you are currently doing.” Yeah, that sounds about right. The way Daniel melts all of those sounds and lyrics into his songs, just amaze me. If you’re looking for a fresh take on music, and beautiful compositions… just hit play, my friend.

Canon Blue — Bows & Arrows

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The Civil Wars
If there ever was a musical group you had to see perform live, The Civil Wars would have to be it. Hands down. I had the immense pleasure of seeing them at The Aladdin in Portland, back in June. It was my birthday month, so it was extra special. They are magical when they sing together, and an absolute delight in person. Truly brilliant. If they are performing in your town next year, please go see/hear them. Full credit to Andy Barron for the introduction to their music. 

The Civil Wars — Forget Me Not

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Ed Sheeran
I could probably write ten posts about Ed Sheeran (I probably have…), and it still wouldn’t be enough to let you know how much I fancy this guy. His voice is insane. He’s a singer-songwriter with lots of soul, passion and drive. He’s as charming as they come, and he’s taking over the world, one song at a time. Even though he has been working for the past 4-5 years, this was his “made it” year. He’ll be coming to the US in 2012 (I get all giddy just thinking about it!). People won’t even know what hit them. You watch.

Ed Sheeran — Give Me Love

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Do you have any new great finds you came across? Any acts you’re excited to see this coming year?
I think 2012 is going to be just amazing.

x

Just a quick list of the runner ups for my favorite 2011 musical picks. Tomorrow I will post my TOP FIVE. Such a tricky/fun list to make. I hope to see all of these acts in the coming NEW YEAR. Fingers crossed!

LISTEN UP!

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Freelance Whales — Enzymes

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David Ramirez — Fires

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Foster The People — Don’t Stop

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hightlights.
Visiting Central Park was awesome! I see how one can get a bit lost in there. It’s just massive.
It was a busy day for everyone. Lots of softball, picnics, rollerskating, and family.
The train ride back to  NJ was really fun. The girls and I got to relax after a busy day of wandering around.
Felicia and Mischa were so kind to drive me back, ALL the way to Harrisburg, PA! It was the perfect mini roadtrip to round out such an incredible day (BONUS: I was re-introduced to Canon Blue. YES!)
When I got back to my aunt’s house, a “cuddly” friend was waiting for me at the door… HA! 

Thanks girls, for making this such a FUN day in the city. I can’t wait for our next adventure! xo

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Here you go.

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musica.
This song was inspired by the life of a lady Ed met at a shelter once. Her name was Angel. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful in my opinion.

I sometimes wonder about the young girls, and the events or decisions that led them to live such sad lives. Whether it’s drug addiction, trafficking, kidnapping, poverty or lack of support, I truly believe their first choice was not to have this be their means of living. Having a sister, cousins, girlfriends, and being a girl myself, it breaks my heart to know so many are robbed of their innocence every day.

Ed Sheeran — The A Team

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art.
Got inspired by the lyrics, and this idea has been brewing in the back of my mind for weeks now. I may end up doing a series I think. We’ll see.

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musica.
New lyric video from Paper Route!

Paper Route — Better Life

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make.
I was at a retreat all weekend, as a chaperone. It was loads of fun, helpful, and much needed. On Saturday, we had girls and guys’ sessions. Laughs were had about how “super old” we women were, and shocked faces  over the singlehood of some of us.

It really got me thinking about where I am in my “relationship status” or lack thereof, and I’ve concluded that I’m OK. I think we always want more than what we have, but I’m slowly learning that where I am in my “love” life is just right for me at the moment. I know I will find someone, or better yet, he will find me… because lets be honest, it would be nice to be found for once, right? Don’t mind me, hopeful romantic over here

For the last 30 minutes of the sessions, we did a little craft activity. It was just a little something which they can hang anywhere in their room, and always have it as a positive reminder of who they are.

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coming soon.
A little preview of my next post.

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Happy taco Tuesday y’all!

x 

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musica.
I found out about Example last year, but failed to share his music earlier. Pretty fun, dance tunes, and very appropriate for the weekend. Cheers!

Example — Kickstarts

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books.
Currently reading this book. It’s part of the WU President’s Book Club that will discuss it in January, during the MLK  Jr. celebration week. So far so great. I couldn’t put it down last night. Looking forward to digging in more.

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random.
I missed Mumford & Sons up in Portland this week… still pretty sad. Thankfully though, there was livestream viewing of their show up in Seattle. So, it was a perfect end to my busy day. Plus, I got back to knitting (after watching about seven videos about how to cast on—I always forget that step).

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’tis the season.
Leaving work. Can’t really complain much about working late when there are views like this waiting for you outside, in the frosty night.

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weekend.
I have a Youth Group retreat to attend this weekend. We’ll be having boys/girls sessions tomorrow, and I was asked to come up with a craft idea for the girls. I hope to have something to share next week!

HAPPY WEEKEND EVERYONE!

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What a lovely weekend with my little sister!!

On Saturday, we crafted it up at Katie’s house and came out with wonderful decorations, and homemade liquid hand soap! We found some fun things while thrifting up in Wilsonville, too. In the evening, we attended the trunk show for Glass Cocoon Jewelry. Such a great day!

Sunday was filled with more crafting fun, and family time at the little brother’s basketball game here in town. 

Lastly, I took Monday off to have some emily-time in the morning, and get myself organized after a busy weekend. Later in the afternoon, I got to surprised and visit with a few friends of mine. WIN WIN.

I hope y’all had a wonderful weekend, and a great start to your week. Here’s to the rest of it! Cheers!

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Michael Bublé — Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

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This is a little bag I have since college, and I just freaking love it. It has served me well during my “Christmas Cheer To All!” missions. I had to share it

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