It’s been a while since I did one of these, hasn’t it? Well, I have been busy finishing up the first draft of the second book in my medieval adventure trilogy, The Reinhold Chronicles. Now that the draft is completed, I am letting it sit and steep for a while so I can come back to it and edit more objectively. Meanwhile, I’m doing some test writing in a new character POV for the third book.

Now, on to the items…

Book:  A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeleine L’Engle

Soon after a good friend insisted that I *had* to read A Wrinkle in Time, I found a copy at my favorite bookstore. Since then, I’ve been scrounging the shelves for matching copies of subsequent titles in L’Engle’s Time series, and this third book just might be my favorite. L’Engle manages to craft characters whom I relate and empathize with after only a few pages.

Movie: The Hobbit Extended Trilogy

Bilbo in one of my favorite extended scenes from “The Battle of the Five Armies”

This past week, The Hobbit trilogy was finally completed with the release of the Extended Edition trilogy box set. Needless to say, I picked one up right away. Now all three epic films are sitting on my shelf in a lovely box (and I’ve already watched the first one in all its glorious Blu-ray-ness).

As much unabashed love as I have for The Hobbit films, I’d be the first to admit that the theatrical versions aren’t quite the full story in a lot of ways. The extended editions resolve nearly all my nitpicks—or “niggles,” as Professor Tolkien would have said—with the movies.

Music: Mockingjay Part 2 Soundtrack

I’ve been a fan of all James Newton Howard’s sonically and thematically rich scores for The Hunger Games films. The final installment is no exception: lots of rich new material and old material reimagined, as well. Great stuff—and perfect writing inspiration!

Food: Stash Breakfast in Paris tea

I recently picked up a box of Breakfast in Paris tea and it entranced me instantly. It’s a rich, smooth tea with a sweet, citrusy flavor—made perfect by the tiniest smidge of sugar. Also, every time I drink the tea offers a reminder to continue to pray for the people of Paris.

So that’s me this past week(s). I’d love to hear what you are up to! Let me know in the comments.