Heroes

I've gotten hooked recently on the show Heroes (through Netflix, about four years late!). We received the next DVD in the mail today, which was my unexpected little happy after a hectic day. My husband recently ruptured a disc in his neck, so he's home miserable right now, and I've had a pretty busy period at work, so both of us really enjoyed our little Heroes break tonight. :)

This series does quite a few clever things, but one subtle thing that I love is how in almost every episode (at least during the first season), someone repeated a version of the line, "I just want to be a hero." And that desire to do something good for the world is, of course, a major theme running throughout the show.

I remember being fascinated with Wonder Woman growing up. Of course, I wanted the neat invisibility super powers and the ability to deflect bullets with my sparkly wrist bands. But I also loved the idea of being the one to save the day. As I grew up, of course, I suppose I lowered my expectations for myself, and I certainly wouldn't consider myself a hero today.

Yet when I think about it, I'm surrounded by heroes every day. My husband is certainly my hero. One of my favorite of his superpower is his ability to notice the little things, the daily details that are really meaningful, yet usually overlooked (at least by me). For example, he usually takes time to pack my lunch for work, and adds creative little surprises on stressful days. My friend Laurie, she's my hero, too. She has the power of problem-solving. She's an amazing listener, and she gives the perfect, practical advice to almost any problem. There are more...and I don't know what I wouldn't do without them. This is my shout out to all my heroes...thanks for always saving the day. :)

The Rose Labyrinth

Isn't that a beautiful title? It's not mine. It's the title of the new book I'm reading. I've been saving this book since Christmas. I've looked at it on the shelf, and have been just savoring the anticipation. It's not that I know it's going to be my new favorite. I've not read anything by the author before, and I haven't read any reviews. But I can only say...it's a truly beautiful book.
The cover is perfect (yes, I frequently judge a book by its cover)...with textured paper, archival patterns and colors, and an intriguing maze set among leaves and roses. It looks old, like something I might uncover in a used bookstore, but is conversely a crisp hardcover that smells deliciously new. Even the author's name is enchanting...Titania Hardie. On the back, there are just a few simple lines: A single sheet of parchment and a silver key. A secret passed down through generations. A mystery waiting to be unlocked. The Rose Labyrinth.
I'm going to love this book. I know this...even if it ends up being predictable or less-than-literary in language. It has so many elements I love...I already know it's going to be an enjoyable read. You know, I'm the girl that read every Nancy Drew book published by the time I was nine...I can't wait to unlock this lovely mystery.
Just knowing I was starting this book today was my little happy for the day. But the bonus was reading the first chapter. The language already tells me it's not just going to be an interesting story, but has interesting language that makes you want to go back and read lines again.
My favorite passage (I know it's bittersweet, but I just love the imagery)...
Outside, everything was disarmingly peaceful. There was a late flush of wisteria scrambling over the front of the cottage. Apart from superficial signs of neglect betrayed by an uncut lawn and unswept path, the house didn't reveal the family pain that had shaped its solitude for many months. ....... Will was proudly his mother's son, emotional in his response to life and passionate in his relationships. And here, in her enchanted space, he missed her.
I hope everyone can curl up with something just as wonderful tonight. I'm off to read more...