Showing posts with label romantic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label romantic. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

A Valentine's Day Music Collection

Looking for some romance music for Valentine's Day or another romantic occasion like a wedding? Take inspiration from this review.

If you are looking for romantic Valentine's Day music, look no further. Take inspiration from this review of a few Valentine's Day music ideas. It includes a couple of my favorite soundtracks that are available on compact disc and a a couple of others that sound fantastic. I have arranged my picks by release date. Enjoy.

FRENCH KISS SOUNDTRACK (1995)

An excellent soundtrack from the romantic comedy, French Kiss.

French Kiss is a great movie that also has a beautiful soundtrack with light pop music. The movie a very popular romantic comedy starring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline. It features a variety of artists that you will recognize, including Van Morrison, Ella Fitzgerald and Zucchero. Find your copy of the French Kiss soundtrack here on Amazon.

CHOCOLATE SOUNDTRACK (2000)    


Discover the Chocolat movie soundtrack. A lovely, instrumental recording perfect for Valentine's Day or any romantic dinner.

I will admit, I am biased because I thoroughly enjoyed the movie Chocolat but, regardless of whether or not you have seen the movie, if you appreciate instrumental music, you will find this soundtrack beautiful. The movie starred Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp and the CD transports you to the setting of the movie, small town France. It is a perfect backdrop for your Valentine's Day dinner.  Released in 2001, it contains about 40 minutes of perfectly romantic music. Find your copy of the Chocolat soundtrack here on Amazon.

DISNEY'S FAIRY TALE WEDDINGS (2005)


For young and old, this instrumental CD offers up some familiar Disney songs for Valentine's Day.

Another instrumental collection, people who love Disney's love stories will enjoy this compilation. It includes songs from Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Lady and the Tramp and numerous other Disney shows. Whether you listen to this on a CD or through Amazon's streaming service, would be great background music for Valentine's Day. Find Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings here on Amazon.

MARTINA MCBRIDE'S MY HEART (2005)


Martina McBride's My Heart (2005) is perfect for Valentine's Day or romantic music.

Martina McBride’s CD My Heart was released by Hallmark for Valentine’s Day in 2005. It features eight romantic songs that were picked by McBride herself. Some are her own songs; others, covers. This CD is shorter than some but it was quite successful upon its release. McBride sounds lovely in this compilation, which is good for Valentine’s Day and any other romantic occasion even a wedding. If you want to add it to your collection note that I found a better selection of this CD from sellers on eBay. Look for Martina McBride's My Heart here on eBay.

VALENTINE'S DAY SOUNDTRACK (2010)


The Valentine’s Day movie soundtrack includes 18 songs from the 2010 movie of the same name.

Released slightly more recently in 2010, the soundtrack to the Valentine's Day movie is another great choice. The movie included a wide variety of popular actors including Julia Roberts, Jamie Foxx and Anne Hathaway. The CD includes recordings from a wide variety of artists who you will recognize including the likes of Taylor Swift, Willie Nelson, Jewel, Amy Winehouse, Nat King Cole and Maroon 5. Find your copy of the Valentine's Day soundtrack here on Amazon.

NOW THAT'S WHAT I CALL A LOVE SONG (2023)


Perfect for Valentine's Day, Here's the new Now Music compilation called Now That's What I Call A Love Song!

Definitely the newest in this series, this set was released in February of 2023 from the people who have presented more than 110 CDs in the NOW Music series. This compilation is packed with new and old love songs by artists you know including but not limited to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Fugees, Sam Smith, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Sting, Billy Joel, Norah Jones, Seal, Lana Del Ray, Kacey Musgraves, Nelly Furtado, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande, Kylie Minogue, Little Mix, Justin Bieber, John Mayer, Cold Play, Pretenders, Robbie Williams and Christina Aguilera. I think this one would make great listening for anyone but would be especially fun for a mixed generation gathering since it presents something for everyone. Find your copy of Now That's What I Call A Love Song here on Amazon. If you want a mix of music that includes today's artists, this is the compilation for you.

Do you have any favorite Valentine's Day music?

Happy Valentine's Day!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

QUICK LINKS:

Love chocolate and France? You will enjoy the movie Chocolat!

Yes, I love French Kiss. Learn more here.









Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, May 10, 2022

What is a Coastal Grandmother?

Discover the vibe that is being called Coastal Grandmother and determine whether or not you fit in.

I have just discovered the vibe, ‘Coastal Grandmother’. Let’s take a minute and review exactly what that vibe is all about. It’s not just a reference to a woman but it is also a feeling and a lifestyle that is currently enjoying favor and being celebrated on sites like Instagram and TikTok.

According to Tik Tok user Nicoleta (@lexnicoleta), the movement includes women young and old who “love Nancy Meyers' movies, coastal vibes, recipes and cooking, Ina Garten, cozy interiors and more.” She also says the movement is about taking time to enjoy life. About slowing down.

I had to look up Nancy Meyers' movies and it turns out that the list includes Private Benjamin (Goldie Hawn), Father of the Bride (Steve Martin, Diane Keaton), The Parent Trap (Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson), What Women Want (Mel Gibson, Helen Hunt), Something's Gotta Give (Jack Nicholson, Diane Keaton), The Holiday (Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz), It's Complicated (Meryl Streep, Mel Gibson) and most recently, The Intern (Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway). They are all very popular, fun movies geared toward women. I now know who Nancy Meyers is and can say that I love her movies even if I did not recognize the name of the American filmmaker. You can check out Nancy Meyers' movies here on Amazon. 

USA Today calls the style “classic and timeless”. You might be a Coastal Grandmother if you like Grace and Frankie’s (2015-2022) home style in the program of the same name, Diane Keaton’s style in Annie Hall (1977) and Meryl Streep’s home in Complicated (2009). I definitely love those styles though I cannot say that my home style is classic or timeless. My home is simply casual and comfortable but those are Coastal Grandmother feelings, too!

Glamour says the term applies to the “perennially summertime lifestyle of a beautiful older woman.” They say that she likes natural products and looking after herself. That she enjoys simple, quality things. That she loves wine and book clubs and life. I definitely love the ideas of an easy summertime lifestyle, of relaxing with a glass of wine and of going to my book club meetings!

Most interesting, I thought, was Glamour’s statement that the Coastal Grandmother prefers real life to life online and I will take that as a reminder to walk away from my computer and celebrate life everyday.

Anne Hathaway at 39 is much younger than you would think of as a grandmother but says that she loves the style and even shared a photo of herself online sporting comfortable khaki pants, shirt and a bucket hat. All were comfortable and all were in neutral colors. Two more great Coastal Grandmother characteristics.

On TikTok, Nicoleta expanded on the comments mentioned previously by saying that Coastal Grandmother “is the feeling that you get when you’re visiting your friend at the beach. A cozy, safe feeling.” I can’t imagine not loving that feeling.

In case you are wondering, no, you don’t have to be a grandmother nor do you have to live on the coast to be characterized as a Coastal Grandmother and yes, there is a Coastal Grandfather equivalent. Glamour cites Stanley Tucci as an example.

I like TheStyleEquation’s definition of the movement as shown here in this short video from TikTok:

@thestyleequation The latest trend, not just for grandmothers! #coastalgrandmother @Lex Nicoleta #lifestyle ♬ original sound - Jennifer Ebelhar
I illustrated the top of this page with a fun, printable graphic from Echowood Printables on Etsy. I love the elements that creator Logan has woven together to create her interpretation of this trend. Click here to see Logan's visual representation on Etsy.  Her print is an inexpensive way to add this trend to your home's decor.

You will also find some interesting, on trend Coastal Grandmother clothing and decor pieces here on Amazon.

Which elements of this lifestyle do you like? Are you a Coastal Grandmother in any or all ways? If you would like to learn and see more, just search for Coastal Grandmother on TikTok and Instagram.

Brenda
Treasures By Brenda





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, February 7, 2015

A Review of a Guide to the Romantic City of Savannah, Georgia

The month of February, and Valentine's Day, seems a perfect time to talk about the romantic city of Savannah, Georgia and the charming interludes one can find in this 'Hostess City of the South'. 


Downtown Savannah viewed from Bay Street


Georgia R. Byrd has compiled a charming guidebook of romantic diversions in and around this southern city near the sea.  The book, Romantic Days and Nights in Savannah is filled with enchanting interludes of one to three days long for every taste and budget.
 
This book contains a group of over 25 itineraries, complete with suggested prices, designed to create compact, cozy interludes for both sophisticated romance and playful adventure with a background of Southern hospitality in this beautiful cityscape called Savannah.



Experience the Romantic Charm of Savannah

Savannah Georgia Rooftop View
Savannah, Georgia, Savannah River, Talmadge Bridge

There are suggestions for delightful accommodations from lavish, pampered elegance to an on-a-shoestring mischievous adventure, along with restaurants for every meal and appetite and a chance to partake of some excellent Southern cuisine.  Event dates and other activities are listed and described for one and two-day trips that can be enjoyed any day of the week in this all-day, every day, yearlong attraction called Savannah.  

Chippewa Square in Savannah, Georgia
Chippewa Square - Where Forest Gump was filmed
The famous orderly Squares of Savannah, found at regular intervals in this city founded in 1733 on a bluff overlooking the Savannah River, provide an intimate ambiance not found in any other American city.  Enjoy the horse-drawn carriages clicking past the squares, the walled gardens of nearby homes, museums and restaurants hinting at hidden delights, and the enticing atmosphere of park benches shaded by palm trees and live oaks laced with Spanish moss. These are just a few of the images offering a taste of Savannah's pleasures.


Some Other Ways to Inspire Romance in and Around Savannah:



    • Hop aboard a carriage for a leisurely ride through Savannah's famous Squares in the Historic District at sunset


    • Savor the sweet fragrances of the flowers in the fragrant garden at majestic Forsyth Park.

    • Picnic under the shady live oak at pretty Daffin Park.
     
    • Sip a late-night toddy at an intimate basement cafe.
     
    • Stroll along River Street on the Savannah River where galleries, pubs, and restaurants abound.


    Historic Savannah, Georgia



    John Wesley Monument in Reynolds Square in Savannah, GA
    John Wesley Monument in Reynolds Square
    Historic Savannah is described in detail throughout each section of this guidebook. From 'Love on the Docks' along the riverfront to 'Love by “the Book”  which includes places to visit made famous by the book and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil", to 'Divine Diversions' filled with the beautiful architecture of Savannah which has been preserved for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike, you'll find an itinerary that is perfect for your visit.


     

    Other Romantic Diversions



    Tybee Lighthouse, Tybee Island, GA
    Tybee Lighthouse, Tybee Island, GA
    Day trips close to Savannah include a Taste of Tybee Island (located 18 miles east of Savannah on the Atlantic Ocean) where you can visit the Tybee Lighthouse. Or have Fun in the Sun on nearby Hilton Head Island, a short drive across the Savannah River into South Carolina, or visit the beaches of St. Simon Island located south of Savannah.




    Don't forget the Ghost Tours of this quite haunted city, or the popular St. Patrick's Day Parade, which is the second largest in the country. Fourth of July brings fireworks on the riverfront and the beach at Tybee Island, and December brings Holiday Magic to Christmas in Savannah.


    Come Visit the City called the "Hostess City of the South"


    With a comfortable climate and year-round activities any time of year, picturesque Savannah, Georgia is definitely a city made for love.  And this delightful, fact-filled guidebook of romantic diversions in and around the city will charm you as you plan your lovers getaway.

    For more romantic ideas, check out suggestions from other articles on Review This here.


    *Book Review written by Wednesday Elf, a resident of Savannah, Georgia
    *Written on 2/7/2015.  Updated 2/14/2022

    +Some images in this article are personal photos of Wednesday Elf 

     


    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, March 28, 2014

    Reviews of Romantic Books

    romantic book collection
    Reading is such a huge part of my life, I simply cannot imagine a day without a book in my hand.  

    I love to read.  Books can transport us across the world in an instant, take us back to the past, give us insight into a variety of personalities and help us understand why people say things or behave a certain way.  

    Even in the fast and easy to read novellas, I recognize I am learning about people, places, ideologies and history.



    Romance Hidden in Other Genres

    Romantic books are my personal favorites, but romance is not limited to one genre.  As a matter of fact, the most romantic books I have read recently would not be categorized as romance novels.  I recently read The Hunger Games Trilogy, which is most often cataloged as Science Fiction or Action & Adventure.  While I enjoyed the futuristic setting and the action packed drama, the tender affections, selfless love, and developing romantic relationship was clearly the thread throughout the books that keep me reading.  As a matter of fact, I was so captivated by the romantic story line, that I read all three books in a few days.


    night circus
    Bekat recently reviewed another book that would be found on the Fantasy or Psychological Thrillers shelves.  

    However, just reading her review of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern reveals the underlying love story and beckons me to start reading the book today.





    Classic Romance Novels

    When I was younger, I focused on the classics.  After all, I knew I would not be disappointed with Classic Romance novels.  Over the last few years, I have actually found it interesting to go back and read them again.  It is amazing to me to realize that what I admired or adored in my youth is no longer my focus as I read them again.  Perhaps that is one of the reasons why they are "classics".  They have an appeal for every generation and age. 

    Because the classics are almost always on the "reading lists" in high school, most of us are already familiar with them and have a basic knowledge of their story lines before we ever pick them up to actually read them.  

    gone with the wind bookIn her review of Gone With the Wind, BeatriceRyanDesigns immediately focuses on the era.  We can learn so much about history in the pages of our great Classic Romance Novels without even realizing we are also getting a lesson in historical lifestyles, fashion and world changing events like war. 

    Truthfully, I probably learned more about the Civil War in the pages of Gone with the Wind, than I did in any history class.


    jane eyre book
    Britflorida gives us another look at history with her awesome review of Jane Eyre and how so much of the book is actually a reflection of the authors personal experiences.  

    I do agree with her completely.  There are definitely aspects of that book that I view differently today than I did when I first read it in high school.



    Contemporary Romance Novels

    Sometimes I just want a great love story.  A book to help me relax and unwind.  Frankly, a book that will take my mind off of everyday tensions and simply entertain.  I don't even mind if they have an obvious end.  In fact, I often read this type of book because I want it to end with "happily ever after." 

    winners book

    I found out recently that Mbgphoto and I have that in common.  She reviewed and recommended Winners by Danielle Steel.  

    In her review, she tells us that she read this book in it's entirety in one sitting.  

    Sometimes that is exactly what we need!     





    ********************

    Romance is not defined by, or limited to any person, place, time or event.  We can all fall in love, often quite unexpectedly. 




    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, February 28, 2014

    Romantic Movie: The Bodyguard, 10 Things I Hate About You, & More

    Romantic Movies
    I absolutely love watching romantic movies!  Recently, I have spent a lot of time and had a lot of fun reading reviews of the best romantic movies.  I have found myself grabbing my own old copies of the movies to watch them again.  

    In a few cases, I have actually been introduced to new romantic movies by our review authors.  I really do love that!  Having a movie reviewed and recommended, truly helps me find entertainment that I have previously missed, but that I am sure to enjoy.  


    Recommended Romantic Movie Reviews


    The BodyguardThe Bodyguard review written by ThanksDevine, is a perfect example of an older movie being brought back to mind by an excellent review.  

    Just reading his words filled my mind with memories of the scenes from that movie and made me want to relive the experience of watching Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner fall in love on the silver screen.  

    This movie is filled with passion and I was reminded of looks of longing and desire these two exchanged with each other as I read this review.


    10 Things I Hate About YouDaisyDixon reviewed 10 Things I Hate About You and I was, once again, swept back to the past.

    I had not even realized Heath Ledger was the male star in that movie.  When the movie was originally released, Heath was new to Hollywood.  As a matter of fact, since reading this review, I did a bit of research and found that "10 Things I Hate About You" was Heath's first movie.  
    This was such a tender movie about first loves and discovering romance. I had to watch it again and, of course, my heart cried for both actors as their relationship developed.

    I will admit, I also cried at the realization that the real man, Heath Ledger, was taken from all of us way too soon.   



    While You Were Sleeping
    While You Were Sleeping  is one of my personal all time favorite romantic comedies. 

    Crystalwriter wrote an excellent review of this fabulously fun movie.  Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman both have a way of making you feel like you know them personally.

    The two of them together in any movie is bound to be a hit, but this really is The Best Case of Unexpected Love.  

    There are several quotes from this movie that you are apt to hear me reference on a daily basis.  I might mention "leaning" or "pencils" and if you have seen the movie, you will definitely grasp the implication.  


    Romantic Movies by Special Request





    Anne of Green Gables Trilogy Box Set
    WhiteIsland88  suggested that I include Anne of Green GablesI immediately applauded her movie suggestion.  In less than 24 hrs, she had written an outstanding review of the movies.

    The romance part of the story comes more into focus in the second movie, but we chose to add and review the trilogy.  

    While there is no question that you could enjoy the second movie without having seen the first movie, the trilogy is simply more complete with the beginning and end.  They are all worthwhile and highly recommended. 



     Brief EncounterCheck PriceSince I have never personally seen the movie Brief Encounter, karen1960's review was especially intriguing to me.


    I do love the older movies and the beauty of black & white.  I always enjoy the close up look at historical places, architecture, clothing styles and political references of what would have been current day when the movies were originally made.

    I have added this movie to my list of must sees.  I am certain there is a rainy Saturday in my future when this will fit with my desire of the day.


    The Anniversary of a Romantic Movie Classic

    The Way We Were
    I had not realized that it had been 40 years since I first viewed this movie until I read this review written by Serendipity831.

    Talk about a flood of memories! I definitely experienced flashbacks as I was reading this review.  It is so hard to believe it has been 40 years.  I can easily remember exactly how I felt when I first saw The Way We Were.

    Many of us grew up with the golden voice of Barbra Streisand setting the tone of our days and "singing" our lives. When she was teamed with the beautiful "golden boy", Robert Redford, to make this movie, it was bound to be a smash hit! 

    Happy Anniversary to "The Way We Were" !


    Future Romantic Movie Reviews

    If you would like to share your romantic movie review with us, simple leave the link to that review in the comment section at the bottom of the list.  

    I look forward to reading and sharing your review!
     





    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, January 31, 2014

    Romantic Movie: Romeo & Juliet, Dirty Dancing, & Cyrano de Bergerac

    Romantic Movies
    Romance is in the air and on the screen!  I love a great romantic movie and I am always on the lookout for a romance that will touch my heart and make me smile. 

    Sometimes it is hard to know just from previews if a movie is really going to be worth our time or if a particular movie is going to meet our expectations.  That is why we depend on great reviews! 

    Fortunately for all of us, there are some really awesome writers online who also love romantic movies and are willing to tell us all about them.  They write excellent reviews and gladly make recommendations for our next movie night.




    Romeo & Juliet


     Romeo and JulietCheck PriceThis review was written by a fabulous author, CharliMillsShe describes the movie as "the ultimate interpretation of William Shakespeare's tragedy."

    Charli gives us a beautifully written, fresh look at a movie that is at the top of almost every romantics list of favorites.

    After reading her review, I have no doubt that all of us will want to grab a copy of Romeo & Juliet and enjoy Romancing a Favorite Classic.




    Dirty Dancing


     Dirty DancingCheck Price

    Mbgphoto challenges all of us to take a journey back into our past by recommending another great romantic movie released in the 80's.

    But don't misunderstand, this movie is not just for those of us who were young in the 80's.  According to mbgphoto, it is a movie that perhaps "brings back the memories of my younger self."

    Dirty Dancing is A Movie to Relive Your Youth!

     



    José Ferrer as Cyrano de Bergerac


     Cyrano de BergeracCheck Price You will want to have your Kleenex by your side when you read this review and definitely when you view the movie.

    Nightcat  takes us back to the 50's for her recommendation.  She reviews a heartbreaking tale of unrequited love, but also unselfish love.  Nightcat writes that this movie "reminds us that all of us, despite our real or imagined flaws deserved to be loved."

    This movie is clearly for a Forever Hopeless Romantic.


    How About A Little Romance Tonight


    Grab a few friends, or that special someone in your life and slip a little romance into your DVD player, as well as your evening tonight.



    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Wednesday, January 22, 2014

    I'm the Forever Hopeless Romantic Contributor

    Sylvestermouse


    Hi everybody and welcome to Review This Reviews! 

    My online name is Sylvestermouse and I'm the Forever Hopeless Romantic Contributor on Review This Reviews!  

    In addition to featuring reviews of romantic books, movies and music, I will be writing about other romantic topics, such as inexpensive dates, as well as sharing true life love story articles.

    None of the writers on Review This Reviews are limited to a single topic or  niche and we often write outside of our official titles.  Therefore, one never truly knows what I might write about in the upcoming months and years, but I do hope you will love it.

    I enjoy reading and writing online.  My life has been greatly enriched by working online and I have been blessed with many new friends, several I consider to be close friends today and several are right here with me on Review This Reviews!  They share my passion for writing, my desire to share and teach, and they share my devotion to family and friends.

    I am delighted and honored to be the Forever Hopeless Romantic Contributor on Review This Reviews because I love everything romantic and I simply love "love".  
                                              


    For More About Sylvestermouse, Visit:  About Me






    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


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