More Books and Movies, and Some Plants

I thought I was done with Tudor England for a bit, but a surprise 4th disc to The Six Wives of Henry VIII arrived as I was working on the color band mittens. Since I'd already seen all six unfortunate women, plus Henry's death, I figured the last disc would feature the making of cheap costumes and facial appliances fastened with chewing gum and flour. I was happy to discover that the disc contained the 2003 BBC adaptation of Phillipa Gregory's The Other Boleyn Girl (with Natascha McElhone, not Scarlett Johansson).

I haven't read the book, but I know the story (or should by now, having wallowed in Tudors for several months straight). I thought the adaptation was really interesting- with both Mary and Anne, speaking directly into the camera, Reality TV Show Style. The costumes were lovely, and the acting very good. I'd never viewed Anne Boleyn's grab for power as sibling rivalry before, but it makes some sense. This is the first version I've seen that gives any credence to the incest angle- I don't know if I buy it or not (most versions portray George as gay), but they played it out credibly. I suppose I'll have to rent the new version now. And read the book.

Yesterday, I continued working on the yellow Graduated Color Band ribbed hat- boy, endless rounds of 2x2 ribbing are boring. But the hat is coming along, and it's a good way to show off that dye style. As I worked, I watched the first two episodes of True Blood, based on Charlaine Harris's Sookie Stackhouse books. I am embarrassed to admit that I have not read the books (since I've met Charlaine, and have several of the books, signed), so the story is new to me (or as new as something that has been talked about a lot in the media can be). I'm loving the production and the story. I especially love the sets and scenery- you can really feel the heat. And I have a special fondness for small town cafes and bars. Whoo doggies, there is a lot of sex... (in other words, enjoy this series after the kiddos go to bed). I can't wait for the next discs to arrive.

I finished reading Rick Riordan's The Sea of Monsters, which was every bit as good as The Lightning Thief. And I have The Titan's Curse lined up next. Unless I decide to read Dead Until Dark first.

And I'll leave you with a couple of pictures that I took on our morning walk: some really tall corn, and milkweed pods. It's a different species than our usual milkweed, but the seeds are the same. Click on the milkweed picture to get the details. I love this shot.