Every year I set a reading challenge for myself on Goodreads. This year I aimed to read 25 books, I ended up reading 33! I like to read a mix of fiction and non-fiction and usually alternate between the two. My next planned book is by David Attenborough – A Life on our Planet, My witness statement and vision for the future. The documentary on this was really powerful and at 93 years of age I believe he has an incredibly important point of view.
One of my oldest friends Sarah Mary Chadwick has a new album coming out. Based in Melbourne, she was in Auckland for the fringe festival this year and played her last album on the Auckland town hall organ, it completely broke my heart with its rawness. She’s one of the most authentic people I know, everything she produces is honest and real.
My friend Stacey Lee is an incredibly talented filmmaker and director, her latest documentary Underplayed premiered at the Toronto film festival in September. I am hoping that this will be picked up by one of the streaming platforms so we can watch it here in New Zealand. Only last week a first-of-its-kind report came out from Massey University regarding the gender inequality female musicians experience within the NZ music industry. Ultimately, the film explores how gender disparity happens, a theme that transcends music and finds relevance in many of today’s industries.
Summer is my most favourite time of year for clothing. I love a summer dress; one piece and you’re ready to go! I have favourites I wear from Shaina Mote and lots of light cotton vintage pieces I have picked up in Paris flea markets over the years. If the sun is intense I throw the Quinn Pyjama Shirt on as the Tencel fabric is so light and breathable. I also have a new sunhat from Lola Hats that will be a staple.
On the wish list is a bedside lamp designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec for Established and Sons. It has a beautiful venetian blown smoky grey glass lampshade.
I’ll be gifting Videris Lingerie of course. I love being able to give something to my friends and family that I have created. I also love to gift produce from my garden, I think there will be an abundance of greens and tomatoes this year. We have a rest home at the end of the street and if I’m in the garden I often give produce to the residents as they stop for a chat on their walks.
Photos: Supplied, Unity Books, Spotify, Underplayed, Simon James Store
