The Librarian

Last summer's weather lacks many redeeming features. I don't think I was the only one who decided last April that a summer without sun just isn't . And I swear it has made this summer all the better. I keep on noticing all the simple summer things. Picking a basket of apricots, riding down a (small) rapid in an inner tube, having my cup of tea and christmas cake in a shady spot of the garden. My beach bag is brimming over with bookish goodness. Here's what you'd find if you tipped it out on the picnic blanket:       The latest Frankie and Extracurricular mags       A borrowed copy of series 3 of The Good Word       New albums Sad but True , Carry Me Back , and Wreck and Ruin and an amazing, 'unputdownable' book called Room . Wishing you a year of sunshine, good reading, and plenty of take-a-skip moments (and an outdoor bath too - I cannot recommend them highly enough).

I love NZ Life & Leisure. I don't always buy it, but every time I do I am inspired; by the photography, the stories and by the people. I was drawn to the cover of this month's issue because the colours were just so delicious. It took me a while to realise that the pretty girl on the cover, with a very cute little home, was actually a sweet friend of mine. I don't know if you have caught World Kitchen on TV3 (it has just finished it's fourth season but season four episodes can be viewed here ). Nici is one of those people who is just super-inspiring, and after reading the feature article on her in NZ Life & Leisure I was reminded all over again of her infectious positivity and upbeat take on life. I felt so buoyed to get out there and do what I love, just as she has. Thanks Nici!