Imagination Illustrated by Jim Henson

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I began to be more and more interested in Jim Henson's creative process a couple of years ago and received this fantastic book as a Christmas present. At the time I was struggling to make sense of the connection between creativity and money. Money was very much a thing you had to WORK for. It seemed out of reach to earn it by doing something purely creative. I read a brilliant article on Brainpickings.org about how Jim Henson had made the connection that if he made money from art, he could make more art... and something clicked. I wonder if this shift actually went some way to fuelling my creative ambitions and believing in myself more.

The book, Imagination Illustrated, contains an detailed insight into Henson's story, ideas and sketches. It's like looking into his mind. I loved finding out that the Muppet Show was turned down flat by American television and found its first home in the UK. I had never thought before about the fact that doing something that brings you so much joy will also bring joy to others. Now there's a thing.

Christmas As Seen By Wes Anderson

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There's always tough competition for who is going to produce the best Christmas advert in the UK. This year, the clear winner has to be H & M who have engaged the wonderful Wes Anderson to direct their Christmas masterpiece.

Oh my goodness, it's beautiful. Wes Anderson has the most perfect eye for detail and symmetry. It's so pleasing to the eye with every square inch of the frame considered. Enjoy.

Sunday Song - Too Young

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"I knew a time was gone and it took me like ages, just to understand I was afraid to be a simple guy."

I'm not sure what made me think of this song by the brilliant Phoenix. It puts me right in the middle of the feeling that I have when I watch Lost In Translation. A feeling of escapism, connection, adventure... Of being in another country without a friend in the world but somehow that being the most exciting, adrenaline rush in the world. I think I know what the Monday movie is going to be : )

#littlebitofpretty

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This week as I've been on my travels I've found myself drawn to soft shades of green when I'm looking for little bits of pretty. It must be something to do with the approach of winter. Greens are becoming more muted as nature goes into hibernation and something in me is clinging on to those little signs of life.

Bookish Inspiration - A Case For Books

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Anna James also known as A Case For Books is a UK book journalist and 'soon to be' debut novelist. I really recommend her YouTube channel for some gentle and interesting ideas of current titles to seek out if you are wondering what to read next. I like how Anna uses pretty papers and letters in her videos and keeps the focus on the books themselves. They are really absorbing and her wealth of experience as a librarian and journalist make me trust her judgement. Worth a watch with a cup of tea.

Heroes - Zach Braff

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Reader, I married him. Well, no, I didn't. But I did get *eye contact* when I attended a wonderful Q & A session with Zach Braff a couple of years ago. For me, Zach is a hero because of his tenacity, his passion for his art, his love of writing and music and his humour.

Zach ran one of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns ever to make his film Wish I Was Here which he directed and starred in. The film follows the story of Aidan Bloom, a struggling actor, father and husband who is trying to look after his family while finding his own purpose in life. It has echoes of his brilliant first film Garden State with a warmth and poignancy (and great soundtrack) that is unique to his style.

As Zach quotes Thomas Edison on his Kickstarter campaign page, "Hell, there are no rules here - we're trying to accomplish something." Yes.

Scroll down to see the trailer for Wish I Was Here and one of my favourite ever scenes from Scrubs : )

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Geno Washington

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Another confession, I had heard of Geno Washington but didn't know too much about him and his story. Until yesterday, when he was interviewed by Lauren Laverne on BBC 6 Music. Geno's sense of joy and love of life was so infectious I had to share the interview here. That man has stories to tell and a laugh you won't forget! I tweeted about how much I loved the interview and had to giggle when the man himself retweeted my tweet and followed me. Life is beautifully random and fun sometimes : )