January 3, 2023 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

Top Ten Tuesday: Best Films & Shows I watched in 2022

It’s another Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl!

Today’s official topic is Favorite Books of 2022. I’ve already posted about my favorites I read in 2022, so I’m doing a different spin on this week’s official one in sharing my favorite movies and shows I watched in 2022.

Best Films & Shows I watched in 2022

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

The ultimate sequel 36 years later, it’s no surprise fans new and old love this story. It absolutely lives up to the hype and delivers a high stakes adventure with some deeply emotional moments.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

Both a highly anticipated sequel for its part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and for the way it handles the loss of actor Chadwick Boseman, I think Wakanda Forever revives a spark for the Marvel franchise that’s been missing from its recent titles. It handles the loss of T’Challa with reverence and a respect I appreciate.

The US and the Holocaust (2022)

A PBS-aired 3 part documentary by Ken Burns, this is a series that’s difficult and sad to watch, but it does a fantastic job showing the harsh realities of our (America’s) treatment of the Jewish people and the horrors they went through under Nazi rule. It will give you empathy and perspective unlike any other story or account of WWII.

Devotion (2022)

I’m often interested in movies or series rooted in true stories. This story of pilots and brothers-in-arms during the Korean War is one I am still pondering and that I appreciate more as time passes. It is fittingly titled, as it explores devotion and loyalty of many kinds, between pilots, friends, husband and wife, and devotion to a cause or a country.

Heartland (2007 – )

I caught up with the episodes available to stream in the US, a total of 15 seasons so far, and I have to say this is the longest running series I think I have ever watched in its entirety. It’s somewhat of a modern family saga set on a cattle and horse ranch in the mountains of Alberta, Canada. I hope season 16 is available here soon!

Doctor Thorne (2016)

This miniseries is one I have long been interested in, and I finally watched it early in 2022. It’s my favorite kind of period drama that defies societal norms and tells a lovely story of sacrifice and romance.

Elvis (2022)

This biopic is one I loved. It does a great job of telling Elvis’ story, though I would recommend watchers do some Googling of the facts vs fiction of the story to see what small bits of creative license the movie takes.

Thirteen Lives (2022

Another based-on-a-true-story, this Ron Howard-directed film is a riveting story of the flooded cave rescue of the Thai soccer team back in 2018. The leading notable actors (Viggo Mortensen and Colin Farrell) deliver an amazing performance, as are the visuals in this feat of filming.

Honorable mentions go to All Creatures Great and Small series and Miss Scarlet and the Duke series, both on PBS. I’m a fan of each of them, and eager to see what the next seasons bring. I didn’t include them in this list because I feel their storylines are still very much ongoing. I might have to write another post about “All Creatures” because I love it dearly.

What did you share for TTT this week? What were your favorite books or films of 2022? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

July 2, 2021 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

Review: “Plot Twist” by Bethany Turner

Fans of romcoms (of the book or film variety) will want to take note: Plot Twist by Bethany Turner is not to be missed! Read on for more about the novel and my thoughts on this cute story.

An aspiring screenwriter has a chance encounter with an actor who could be the man of her dreams. Over the next ten years, she’ll write the story . . . but will he end up being the star?

February 4, 2003, promises to be a typical day for Olivia Ross—a greeting card writer whose passion project is a screenplay of her own. But after she and a handsome actor have a magical meet-cute in a coffee shop, they make a spontaneous pact: in ten years, after they’ve found the success they’re just sure they’re going to achieve, they’ll return to the coffeehouse to partner up and make a film together. The only problem? Olivia neglected to get the stranger’s name. But she doesn’t forget his face—or the date.

For the next ten years, every February 4 is marked with coincidences and ironies for Olivia. As men come and go and return to her life, she continues to write, but still wonders about the guy from the coffee shop—the nameless actor she’s almost certain has turned out to be Hamish MacDougal, now a famous A-lister and Hollywood leading man.

But a lot can happen in ten years, and while waiting for the curtain to rise on her fate, the true story of Olivia’s life is being written—and if she’s not careful, she’ll completely miss the real-life romantic comedy playing out right before her eyes.

Goodreads | Amazon

Bethany Turner’s romcoms are always fresh and brimming with pop culture. Plot Twist offers the same zest and smart plotting, but with celebrity references amped up thanks to the the LA setting and culture. This story is especially unique with its timeline and take on romance yet full of beloved tropes and one of the BEST roommate relationships I’ve come across in a while. And the hero, y’all. He’s unexpected and lovable and quite the surprise!

Plot Twist and Films — These movies all have a connection to Plot Twist 😉

I absolutely laughed and highlighted my way through this novel. The celebrity name dropping and movie references make my heart happy, particularly as a movie buff. Its setting and cast of characters are a natural springboard for Hollywood happenings. And the way the actor Hamish MacDougal resembles real-life actor Gerard Butler is uncanny 😉 and hilarious.

Plot Twist is simultaneously a unique romcom and a story that harkens back to classic and beloved romcom tropes through its wry moments of spontaneity and over the top IRONY. It has, to name a few, meet cute(s) (yes, plural), a bachelorette auction, celebrity sightings, a Hallmark-like greeting card company, dreaded exes showing up at the most inopportune times, and a bff relationship to envy.

The timeline works for the story, checking in with Olivia and friends every February 4th for ten years, and is in favor of the character development. While it could feel abrupt, Turner takes her time with each “day” and builds complexity by catching up events of the past year and showing another crazy day in Olivia’s life. Olivia learns to how to be comfortable in her own skin. along the way, and she learns to appreciate the heroes in her life who come and go — and one hero, in particular, who is there for her all along.

My very favorite part of this story is the BFF relationship Olivia has with her roommate, Fiona. Fiona is pivotal to the plot in many ways. While the romance and zany comedy are a huge part of the story, my takeaway is that a relationship like Olivia and Fiona’s is as important in life as a HEA (happily ever after).

Thanks to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.

January 5, 2021 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

Top Ten Tuesday: Most Anticipated 2021 Movies & Shows

It’s another Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl!

Top Ten Tuesday at The Green Mockingbird

Today’s official topic is “most anticipated releases for the first half of 2021”. I’m spinning the topic a bit to cover stories on the big and small screen I’m highly anticipating this year! Some of these were slated for 2020 release, so I’m extra excited to *finally* see them released.

Most Anticipated 2021 Movies & Shows

Top Gun: Maverick This sequel is almost 35 years in the making! I’m all about the nostalgia and anticipated soundtrack of this one.

No Time to Die This James Bond film is Daniel Craig’s last — and I have a feeling it’s going to be my favorite with him. I’m always entertained by the Bond titles but I really liked the story direction of the last one, Spectre, so I’m excited to see how they continue with some of those elements in this one!

Respect Jennifer Hudson as The Queen of Soul.

Black Widow FINALLY we get Scarlett Johansson’s character’s origin story. I hope there’s a nod to Budapest.

Death on the Nile The next Hercule Poirot remake, this highly anticipated period drama/mystery is slated for a late 2021 release. It will (hopefully) be here before we know it!

Dune The classic sci-fi with a fabulous cast. Though I know very little about the story, I am very excited for a new space adventure!

Finding You This Ireland-set romance is adapted from a novel by Jenny B. Jones!!! Hooray! Now, to read it before I watch it…

Luca Disney & Pixar + an Italian setting. I’m in!

On the small screen:

All Creatures Great and Small this promising PBS-Masterpiece slated series follows a veterinarian in 1930s Yorkshire.

Miss Scarlet and the Duke A Victorian mystery with a female lead. ALL things I love!

Your turn! Did you participate in this week’s Top Ten Tuesday? Are any of these shows on your must-watch list? What books are you anticipating this year?

April 30, 2020 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

April Happenings (2020)

It’s time for my monthly update post…Happy Leap Day! The second month of 2020 is already over…

I’m sharing a few updates on what I’m reading, blogging about, and what I’m eating and watching.

on the bookshelf

Currently reading: Stay With Me by Becky Wade

Recent additions to my TBR/shelf I’m super excited about: Hadley Beckett’s Next Dish by Bethany Turner, The Little Bookshop of Love Stories by Jaimie Admans, When I Lost My Way by Jennifer Rodewald, Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey by Abigail Wilson.

on the blog

Most visited new reviews:

on the screen

I’ve been watching all the WWII related dramas. So far, I’m enjoying the PBS WWII drama World on Fire. It has an almost-too-big cast (many little plots to follow), but it’s following interesting events early on in the war.

I also loved the TV movie The Windermere Children, based on true life Jewish refugee children in post-war England. I rewatched Operation Finale, too.

in the kitchen

I love all things ITALIAN. Lately, I’ve made my first homemade meatballs (recipe here) and found that they freeze well! And, thanks to my PBS watching and America’s Test Kitchen, I discovered the Torta Caprese AKA a flourless chocolate cake make with whipped eggs and almond flour. It had just the right balance of gooey and light texture.

Your turn! Tell me: what have you been reading, watching, and eating this month?

February 29, 2020 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

February Happenings

Happy Leap Day! The second month of 2020 is already over…

It’s been a while since I’ve done any type of “monthly recap” post. I posted these regularly in 2017-18, but time & other factors caused me to get out of the habit. SO! I would like to revive them with a few format changes. I plan to post at the end of each month with a few updates on what I’m reading, blogging about, and maybe what I’m eating and watching.

on the bookshelf

Currently reading: If For Any Reason by Courtney Walsh

Recent additions to my TBR/shelf I’m super excited about: Kings Falling by Ronie Kendig, Chasing the White Lion by James R. Hannibal, and Becky Wade’s new (free!) novella Take a Chance on Me.

on the blog

Most visited new reviews:

on the screen

I finished watched some great British drama this month, including the one and only season of Sanditon and the newest Howard’s End miniseries. I enjoyed them both. I know Sanditon is polarizing, especially with its ending, but I liked it and think it ended with enough hope. Now I need more Theo James in period dramas! Howard’s End was the first rendition of this classic I’ve ever seen, so its story ups and downs were fresh and interesting. I really really loved Margaret, though I didn’t always like the choices of the other characters and the way they drove parts of the story.

Fun movies I watched for the first time include Larry Crowne (Tom Hanks-starring and directed, hilarious “normal life” humor) and Timeline (GERARD. BUTLER. on a horse.).

in the kitchen

I had some amazing raspberry oat bars from Whole Foods I’m scheming to recreate in my kitchen. I have a couple online recipes and the ingredients list. I’m going to science!

Grocery store adventures: I can’t find buckwheat flour anywhere local. Buckwheat pancake and waffle mix, yes. Buckwheat groats, yes. I’m wanting to make the Buckwheat Blueberry Breakfast cake from this novel.

I DID make crepes a couple days ago, using Alton Brown’s recipe from his Good Eats show. I posted a pic on Twitter… and Alton tweeted back! I kinda fangirled over the kitchen nerdiness of it all.

How’d they turn out?
— Alton Brown (@altonbrown) February 28, 2020

Your turn! Tell me: what have you been reading, watching, and eating this month?

December 31, 2019 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

Best of 2019: Film & TV + Top Ten Tuesday

Welcome to my annual “best-of” celebration! Like last year, I’m separating the categories of my yearly best-of lists over a few days. It’s going to take me a few days to talk about all the stories I loved in 2019!

I’m also linking up with Top Ten Tuesday today, the topic being Favorites of 2019 ~~ my twist being fav movies & shows!

Best of 2019: Novellas & Audiobooks
Best of 2019: Contemporary Fiction
Best of 2019: (General) Historical Fiction
Best of 2019: (Inspirational) Historical Fiction
Best of 2019: Film & TV + Top Ten Tuesday!
Best of 2019: Happy New Year #OnTheBlog

So far, I have talked all about the books I loved. Today I shift focus slightly and talk about story in a different form: TV & movies! From this list it’s obvious how my taste is eclectic 😉

Best of 2019: Film & TV

FILM FAVORITES

Avengers: Endgame (Disney) | Yes, I admit it. I’m a big fan of the MCU, moreso in recent years, as I’ve seen Disney take these characters on unforgettable story arcs all wonderfully (if not always perfectly) intertwined. I’m excited to see what 2020 brings with new additions to the next “phase” of films!

The Boys are Back (Miramax) | I discovered this 2009 film re-airing on television. It is a humorous and poignant look at family and grief, and one father’s journey to learning how to do “life” in a different way.

Harriet (Focus Features) | This real-life story of a BRAVE woman was both encouraging and tragic. I wonder if the real Harriet ever considered how her story could still be impacting the world 150 years later?

Overcomer (Affirm Films) | A film for anyone in the family to enjoy, this story touched my heart with its surprises and depth.

Ad Astra (Fox) | Stunning visuals combine in this “to the stars” movie, but it’s not all about exploration and the cosmos. Its message about life, family, and people needing PEOPLE is subtle and beautifully expressed.

Midway (Lionsgate) | If it’s a WWII story, count me in! This well-told story incorporates a cast based on real-life heroes.

Little Women (Sony) | In theaters now, this re-imagining of Alcott’s classic shows the March sisters in a fresh way. I really liked the way the non-linear timeline of the film was presented! Saoirse plays Jo SO WELL.

Downton Abbey (Focus Features) | Avid fans of the series rejoiced when the movie-length story released! It is a continuation with beloved characters! Though I didn’t love *every* aspect of this presentation, I did love the way they hint at a happily-ever-after for Tom. And I loved ALL the scenes and one-liners of Lady Violet’s.

Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (Disney) | Yes, I’m a fan. Every scene was fascinating! I did not expect THAT ENDING. I love it when a story surprises me.

TV FAVORITES

I have loved my PBS channel this year! The final season of Poldark left me happy because it ended hopefully. Also, George Warleggan was a surprise this round!

New seasons of Victoria and Grantchester were great, too! I’m still working my way through the PBS Country Music documentary series.

My recommended Hallmark channel Christmas movie list this year includes A Godwink Christmas: Meant For Love, Picture a Perfect Christmas, and A Christmas Love Story, the latter being my favorite! Also, I enjoyed Christmas On My Mind, adapted from a Denise Hunter novel (woohoo)!

What did you watch this year? Do you have favorite movies to recommend? Did you participate in Top Ten Tuesday with a favorites list?

February 28, 2018 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

February Happenings

Ah, February. The shortest month. The month for all things chocolate and heart-y. And for my family, a big month of birthdays. On the blog today, I’m looking back at some fun that happened this month!

on the bookshelf

Only a few new books on the shelf this month….. which is probably a good thing. I need to catch up! The Sea Before Us by Sarah Sundin, As Easy As Riding a Bike by Bell Renshaw, Embers by Ronie Kendig, Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano.

on the blog

on the screen

Gifted (2017) I finally watched this family drama starring Chris Evans. It was as delightful as a movie concerning a custody battle could be — and I mean that in the best way. Tiny moments of humor added levity to an otherwise thought-provoking story line dealing with questions of purpose, normalcy, and the importance of childhood.

I’m also working my way through the 2008 biographical miniseries John Adams. By next month’s recap, I’m sure I’ll have several thoughts on it!

What have YOU been watching?

around the web

With Valentine’s came some super fun romance-related posts! Like Carrie’s themed KissingBooks 101 “lesson” and Andi’s “guess that author” list!

The INSPYs are in full swing, as the advisory board members have been saying on social media. (FYI, INSPYs are the “bloggers’ award for excellence in faith-driven literature”). On March 1, potential judges can apply to participate in choosing the 2018 winners!

YOUR TURN! What exciting things happened for you in February?

February 13, 2018 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

Top Ten Tuesday: 10 Best On-Screen Rom-Com Couples

It’s another Top Ten Tuesday, now hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl!

The official topic this week is a love freebie because YAY Valentine’s Day and all things hearts and chocolate!!!! I’ve decided to highlight some of my favorite couples from TV and film formats, particularly from romantic comedies.

In no particular order…

10 Best On-Screen Rom-Com Couples

Shane and Oliver from the Signed, Sealed, Delivered Hallmark movie series

#Sholiver fans have been waiting FOREVER for them to be a “couple”, but it’s been worth the relationship growth and character building. Ah!

Kathleen Kelly and Joe Fox from You’ve Got Mail (1998)

These two are a modern classic couple. From arguing over Pride and Prejudice to friendship over coffee, I love the journey of their relationship.

Lucy and Jack from While You Were Sleeping (1995)

The humor in this story is just so realistic. My favorite aspect of this story is how Lucy learns the dream she idealized is not the reality she really wants.

Ellen and Nicholas Arden from Move Over, Darling (1963)

We can’t talk about romantic comedies without mentioning THIS classic. 1. It manages plenty of romantic tension even between a married couple. 2. James Garner. 3. The hilarity of the derailed “honeymoon”.

Kate and Leopold from Kate & Leopold (2001)

A time-travel romance with humor and spunk, Meg and Hugh have the best chemistry.

Anna and Declan from Leap Year (2010)

Ireland. Sheep. Tradition. Road trip. An adorable Amy Adams. Plus a little dry humor and Matthew Goode with an IRISH accent. Need I say more?

Ellen and Roy from The Irresistible Blueberry Farm (2016) Hallmark

While I’ve only seen this once, I vividly remember how endearing and laugh-out-loud funny it was throughout. Especially that meet-cute and subsequent fallout. 🙂

Jack and Gwendolyn AND Cecily and Algy from The Importance of Being Earnest (2002)

You knew I’d squeeze a period drama onto this list, right? 😉 This play-turned-cinematic fun piece just gets funnier upon every rewatch. Mistaken identity and a town-country separation prove hilarious and fateful for this delightful cast.

Toula and Ian from My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

Culture shock and a vibrant family make this film one-of-a-kind. And, the quotable lines are ENDLESS. “Put some Windex on it.”

That’s it for today! Did you participate in this week’s TTT? What are YOU favorite rom-coms?

January 31, 2018 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

January Happenings

Today marks the last day of January and 1 month passed in 2018. How is that possible?! Join me in looking at some new books added to the shelf, popular posts, and favorites from this month.

on the bookshelf

New books on the shelves (virtual and real): The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz, Blue Columbine by Jennifer Rodewald, The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White, “The Rock Harbor Collection” by Colleen Coble, and Nightshade by Ronie Kendig. ARCs: Amongst the Roses by Meghan M. Gorecki, A Refuge Assured by Jocelyn Green, Love in Three Quarter Time by Rachel McMillan, Unbreakable by Sara Ella, The Lost Castle by Kristy Cambron, The Heart Between Us by Lindsey Harrel, No One Ever Asked by Katie Ganshert, and The Cupcake Dilemma by Jennifer Rodewald.

on the blog

on the screen

Oh, so many movies, so little time! Instead of waxing poetic about a movie or two, I’m just going to list some I’ve really enjoyed lately. What have YOU been watching?

One Winter Weekend (Hallmark) |While not without its little moments of cheesiness, this one was 99% believable and one of the best of the winter themes. Plus, the leading actress, Taylor Cole, is a fav.
Victoria, season 2 (on Masterpiece Classic, PBS) | My history and romance loving heart LOVES this series! It’s one of the best developed series I’ve ever seen, everything from the historical accuracy, gorgeous sets/costumes, the ❤ great cast, and the nuances of the supporting cast just works.
12 Strong (Warner Bros.) | Riveting and eye-opening, this depiction of true life events just after 9/11 makes me honored and proud to be an American.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Disney) | Yes, I’m a nerd. And a fan of the direction this movie took. #REYLO
The Case for Christ (Pure Flix) | This biopic based on Lee Strobel’s life and journey from atheism to faith is interesting and faith-affirming. Go watch it.

around the web

If you’re still on the lookout for a reading challenge to complete this year, go check out Bethany House’s unique and quirky list.

Author Carla Laureano wrote an AWESOME guest post on the Seekerville blog all about The Care and Feeding of Authors. FYI, this list applies to bloggers, too. Just throw chocolate at us when we look like we need it.

YOUR TURN! Tell me all about your January in the comments.

December 31, 2017 by Courtney @ The Green Mockingbird Blog

December (& 2017) Happenings

Wow. It’s time to say goodbye to December and goodbye to another year. This makes me all kinds of nostalgic! There’s just something bright about a year beginning in all its possibility and newness. But first, I’m taking one last look at 2017 and the month of December with the usual rundown and some fun yearly favorites.

on the bookshelf

New on the bookshelf this December: One Christmas in Winter by Bell Renshaw, Desert Duet by Debra E. Marvin, A Log Cabin Christmas Collection by various authors, The Saturday Night Supper Club by Carla Laureano, A Sweethaven Christmas by Courtney Walsh, A Song Unheard by Roseanna M. White, Troubled Waters by Susan May Warren, Bespoke: A Tiny Christmas Tale by Amanda Dykes, and both A Season to Love and A New Shade of Summer by Nicole Deese.

on the blog

December popular posts:

December popular reviews:

2017’s most popular posts & reviews:

in the kitchen

December was a month for baking, both on the job (cupcakes galore!) and for family. My favorite new recipe I tried was, yet again, from a “Bake From Scratch” magazine. It was the Spiced Coconut Oil Cake with Bourbon Glaze. I’m always on the lookout for easily-adaptable dairy free recipes, and this one was simple! (I substituted coconut almond milk with a tad of vinegar for the buttermilk.)

on the screen

Murder on the Orient Express was a cinematic masterpiece. The costumes, cinematography, script, and even the little moments I found humorous all work to portray the era and gripping story line perfectly.

The Lady Eve — sometimes a little silly, this is still the classic era of film at its best. Barbara Stanwycke is as glamorous as ever, and Henry Fonda plays the rare comedic relief piece as his world is turned upside down by “Eve” and her schemes. My favorite scene involves HIS father looking for his breakfast!

around the web

My year in books on Goodreads

So many best-of book lists! Kara, Rissi, Becky, and Beth‘s to name a few.

THE INSPYs ARE OPEN! Check out Rel’s post with all the details. The INSPYs are annual blogger/reader nominated-and-judged inspirational fiction awards, given in several categories. Go vote for your favorite books now!

2018 plans

So far, my 2018 to-do list is short. Besides a few work-related plans, I’m going to be participating in the Mansfield Park Read-Along Amber is hosting starting January 3rd! (PS you’re invited to join!)

And, I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next SSD installment in February, as just announced here. Signed, Sealed, Delivered: The Road Less Traveled. The steady story and character development of these movies is always my fav!

Thank you for being my blog readers and friends in 2017. Now, time to ask for your feedback!!! What would you like to see from me on the blog? More reviews? More guest authors? More bookish (or non-bookish) discussions? Movie reviews? I’ve been toying with that last idea for a while…