Things I'm Loving (v.17)
Steampunk butterflies, Footloose joy, Netflix codes & a theatrical Ben Vereen rabbit hole deep-dive.
Last week was the Soulful Sales Summit I’d mentioned in the previous issue.
I loved participating as a speaker this year— my favorite part was a live panel I spoke on where we discussed how to sell in a way that was aligned with our values, energy, and capacity. It gave me lots to chew on!
Unfortunately, I also came down with COVID last week, so I wasn’t able to participate as much as I’d hoped.
Something for play
Over the past few years I’ve really started to enjoy building things with my hands. This spring, a lot of that effort went into my garden, but I’ve also built some of those 3d models you can buy of houses or little shops. When I saw this butterfly, I knew I had to save it to share with y’all.
I have several friends who love LEGO models, and others who play with clay. Do you ever build something with your hands? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
Something to read
Learning about lead levels in cinnamon powders is not something that I’m loving, but it is information that I’m loving having.
My friend Charme posted this article on FB which you should go check out, especially if you, like me, use a lot of cinnamon in your cooking.
Here’s the Worst:
And here’s the recommended brands:
Something to listen to
Okay, so last month (August) I went to see a performance of Footloose at the Cumberland Theatre and they were amazing. My favorite scene was during the song Holding out for a Hero. If you’ve seen the movie, you might remember this song went with the tractor scene.
Well, let me tell you, it couldn’t have been further from that in this performance! Instead, they had behind screens (as if shadows in a window) people dancing to the song. It definitely had 80s vibes to it, and it filled me up with joy. Since then, the song’s been living in my head.
Here it is so you can check it out:
Something to help you navigate Netflix
While sick, I watched a LOT of Netflix and I stumbled onto this really cool article about how to use the “secret codes” to find certain categories on Netflix.
Maybe you, like me are sick of the algorithm only showing you the same things over and over. Maybe you miss the days of Blockbuster and Erol’s where you could stroll down the aisles and stumble onto amazingness.
These codes can help you replicate that feeling! Look by categories like Sci-Fi, Action Romance, and Classic Western.
If you really wanna go deep, click the link at the bottom of the HuffPost article — there are over 4000 codes(!) listed on the original reference article.
Someone I’m Loving
During my COVID-induced break, I also went on a deep dive into Ben Vereen (if I’m being honest, it’s because songs from Pippin were running through my head). It brought me a few gems that I wanted to share with you.
First, from the original Pippin, where Ben Vereen originated the role of the Leading Player.
Magic to Do (the first 4 minutes are the song — it was the only copy I could find with a clear image. If you want to keep watching, Vereen is masterful acting, not just singing/dancing)
Then, On the Right Track:
…and finally, the Finale
The other Ben Vereen rabbit hole I went down was the Zoobilee Zoo one. If you’re not familiar, the linked Wikipedia article will tell you loads— but the short version is, it was a live action show that had adults dressed up as animal characters. The show only ran live for one year with about 60 or so episodes filmed. However, it lived on in reruns until the late 90s, early 2000s.
Vereen played the town’s mayor, Mayor Ben (the role wasn’t a large one, although it was prominent).
You can see him in the opening Theme Song:
…and the Closing:
Last, but not least, if you’re curious about the show itself, here’s the pilot episode:
Although it doesn’t fit neatly into the categories above, one thing I’m REALLY loving is my new website!!! It’s a home that’s been in the making for nearly 20 years, and together with some help, we got it up and live in about six weeks!
Enjoy poking around. There’s still more to come, but it’s a great start and I’m really proud of it. ☺️
‘Til next time.
~M