Week Seven: BEN FOLDS

This week I went to a Ben Folds concert in my town's local theater. I have only seen Ben Folds perform live once before this, but I will admit, this show blew his previous performance off the stage. It was probably one of the best concerts I have ever been to. Ben Folds was interactive with the crowd, telling stories, making jokes, and even pulled up a few audience members to sing with him on certain songs. He killed on the piano, and even played the cajon. His songs were very diverse, playing from old to new, even playing requests, he played it all. If you're not a Ben Folds listener already, I highly reccommend looking into his music if you're a fan of piano rock and clever lyrics.

Week Six: EVERYDAY MUSIC

When you're in a financial pickle and need something to do that is free, entertaining, and educational, I recommend you visit a music store. Where I live there is an 'Everyday Music' filled with used and new cds, vinyls, and dvds. Whenever I'm bored, or just want to check out new releases, this is where I go. On display there are great listening stations featuring new albums. One day in order to escape the rain, I ducked into 'EM' and fell in love with the new Islands album, Vapours. It was love at first note.

Week Five: HIKING

Living in the Northwest, I am fortunate enough to participate in incredible outdoor activities. This weekend I went on a [huckle] berry picking trip in the Heather Meadow Valley of the Cascades. Berry picking was followed by a short hike overlooking Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan. With the changing colors of fall and the new snow of winter appearing, it was spectacular! And the berries are divine!

Week Four: RICE CRACKER

When I was at my friend Cherub's house, she made us lunch consisting of these amazing rice crackers! She started with vegan mayo and mustard, then piled on onions, avocado, tomato, sprouts, and to top it off, black pepper. Not only are these vegan and gluten free, they're delicious! I eat them quite often for lunch, but my version is slightly different than Cherub's. I don't put on the avocado because I'm in university, and avocados are expensive; however, I know, this should be no excuse. Avocados are tasty! Seriously, rice crackers are so versitle. Try out this recipe or think up some rice crackery goodness of your own.

Week Three: "ACTOR OUT OF WORK" by ST. VINCENT

I've been listening to the album "Actor" by St. Vincent a lot recently, but the one song that catches my attenion most is "Actor Out of Work". It's cleaver with a hint of catchy. The best way to listen to this song, and my personal favorite, is to sit in a public place and watch people walking by, placing their foot steps with the beat. Here is a link to the music video on youtube. Check it ouuuut.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZW9NYX6JZA