Parchment Paths

Do you ever notice that when a TV show or a movie features a restaurant or café that it’s always some, fun, funky, local place? The walls are usually covered in quirky art work and the tables and chairs are either unique or mismatched, or both.   The Central Perk from Friends comes to mind, but so does a real life restaurant, Canteen 900 in Forty Fort Pennsylvania.  My good friend, Nicole introduced me to the place, which is housed in what used to be factory and was abandoned for several years until it was purchased and renovated.   Now, the building houses not just Canteen 900 but a clothing outlet, a gift shop, a yoga studio, a salon, and several offices.               I love the idea that the old building was rescued and revitalized.   Far too many unused buildings are left to decay and present dangers as the elements and vandals take hold, but not this place. Aside from being a rescue itself, 900 Rutter Avenue showcases another rescue; the dining room in Canteen 900 p

Just a fair warning, this is not going to be a comprehensive review of The Force Awakens.     I’m still processing the movie and I’m also trying not to spoil it for anyone who hasn’t seen it yet.   I’ve seen it twice, but feel a thorough review and consideration needs one more viewing.                 I will say this; it was incredible. It felt like the original trilogy without feeling recycled.   The new characters were well rounded and intriguing, yet there was enough valuable screen time with the returning cast.                   The cinematography was beautiful as well; the music was a perfect fit and I cannot wait till the next one.   I also need a Kylo Ren shirt and lightsaber.   

For most of my childhood, Return of the Jedi was my favorite Star Wars movie. To be perfectly honest, it was because of the Ewoks.   Keep in mind, that I was a little girl who hoarded stuffed animals, mostly teddy bears, like other girls collected Barbie and her accessories. I also loved action and fight scenes and here were Ewoks, butt kicking, teddy bears who live in on a gorgeous forest moon.               To be even more honest, I still love the Ewoks. People argue that it’s unrealistic that they were able to take out the Stormtroopers, but they were defending their home, had the help of the Rebels, and had weapons that they knew how to employ against the weak points in the armor of the Stormtrooper uniforms and the walkers, and they look adorable while doing it.             Another favorite aspect that’s carried over from my many childhood viewings is the lightsaber battel between Luke and Vader. Aside from just looking cool, there is so much going on. Luke’s feelings o