Monthly Archives: September 2016
Bedtime Stories: Cartoons for Grown-Ups
Post by Mark T. Locker.
Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh.
Recently I was feeling a bit down. All the news has been sad and depressing and I needed to read a book that would be sure to make me laugh out loud (actual laughing—not LOLing) and make me forget all the other stuff in the world. I was given a number of recommendations from friends but the one that came up the most was Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh. With no idea what it was—so little of an idea that I looked for an audio version—I promptly put a hold on it at my local library, with no idea what I was even getting.
What I got was a unique blend of personal narrative and hilariously crude illustrations, all chronicling the formative moments of Allie Brosh’s life, from the opening story about finding a note written to future Allie from 10-year-old Allie to the story of her insanely stupid (but greatly loved) dog. Each story is complemented by a number of pictures done in Brosh’s telltale stick-figure style. The stories on their own are funny and interesting but the pictures push it to a whole new level of hilarity.
But not all the stories are flat-out funny. As one who has struggled with depression, she provides a startlingly honest look at her bouts with depression and her attempts to be understood and to deal with it. Even this is oddly funny, mostly due to her ability to see clearly where she is being unreasonable and holding, at times, hilariously unrealistic expectations.
I read this book in bed every night and couldn’t get enough. My son was super interested in it too, partly due to the fun pictures but probably mostly because I told him it was totally inappropriate for children, mostly because of language. We did let him read the story about cake. The cake story is okay for kids.
If you need some levity in your life without compromising on a smart read, read this book. Or, if you can’t wait, hit up her blog where it all began: http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/
Bedroom Design: 5 Solutions for TV in a Bedroom
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Although most sleep experts don’t advise keeping a television in the bedroom, if you’re a diehard TV fanatic and can’t resist binging on Game of Thrones or relaxing in bed with the latest episode of House of Cards, then this blog post is for you. These five solutions give you options, so your bedroom can still appear stylish and the television doesn’t need to be a focal point.
This Lake Michigan home utilizes a smart pop-up cabinet for the TV. The screen neatly recesses into the case piece at the foot of the bed, so there’s no sign of a television in the room. In a nutshell, now you see it – now you don’t.
The designer of this elegant bedroom in Los Angeles used a frame around the television, so it creates the illusion of a piece of art. Although no one can ignore the flat screen, it blends in nicely with the interior.
With its pitched ceilings, dormers, and fireplace, this Seattle bedroom oozes charm. The television is cleverly tucked away in millwork above the mantle.
This traditional bedroom in Portland has recessed the TV, so it hangs in a niche, creating symmetry along the fireplace wall.
If you’re married or have a significant other, you know that few couples appreciate all the same television shows. This bedroom solved the issue by installing two separate units. He can watch all the sporting events he wants, and she won’t miss her favorites on HGTV or BRAVO. How perfect!
