Joyful Jottings

Apologies

2009-05-14T12:45:00.002-05:00

I should apologize for my extended absence, but as I think about it I won't. The best thing I can say is that I have been busy and blogging has been on the back burner. I love writing and I love this forum, but I realized that this has been an escape as well. At the end of 2008, I listed 100 things I wanted to do in 1001 days. That was a challenge I saw on someone's blog. I made my list and low and behold I started doing them. The more I worked on my list; the less I sat at the computer. Working full time, being a wife, mother, and grandmother, and trying new things takes a big chunk out of my day! To top it off, I read...voraciously. I have noticed that I miss these "jottings" and I miss writing about what I have read. (I have a separate blog for that.) So I guess I am going to give this another try. What is one more obsession to juggle?!

2008-11-21T08:37:00.006-05:00

1. The last band I saw live was well Neil Diamond (I know he isn't a band!).

2. What I look forward to most on Thanksgiving is crisp turkey skin....oops I mean family.

3. My Christmas/holiday shopping is Ha! Ha! Ha!

4. Thoughts of retirement fill my head.

5. I wish I could wear jeans everyday.

6. Bagpipes make me think of police officer's funerals.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to reading, tomorrow my plans include wieght watchers and Sunday, I want to ignore tomorrow!

Bookworm Award

2008-11-16T11:59:00.004-05:00

Jan in Edmonds over at Jottings from Jan tagged me with the Bookworm Award. I'll play along.

Here’s how it goes.Open the closest book to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56.Write out the fifth sentence, as well as two to five sentences following there.Pass this on to five blogging friends.

"But this case was different. 'We had that game already,' said the father, 'and my son was bored to tears with it. The commercial sold him on something we already owned.'" (56) Unplug the Christmas Machine by Jo Robinson and Jean Coppock Staeheli
I tag
Sally http://sally906.blogspot.com/
Les http://lesleysbooknook.blogspot.com/
Joy http://www.thoughtsofjoyblog.blogspot.com/
Jenclair http://bookgarden.blogspot.com/
Calista http://smsbookreviews.blogspot.com

Am I Satisfied?

2008-11-13T18:08:00.005-05:00

“Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it.”
Margaret Thatcher quotes (British Politician and Prime Minister. b.1925)

I have been overwhelmed with all that I have to do and all I really want to do is work here and read. I don't want to disagree with Lady Thatcher...but then I always have been too critical of myself. (sigh) Now can I go read?

Autumn

2008-11-12T17:51:00.006-05:00

The trees have been beautiful in our area this fall. I did not take this picture but it is pretty representative of my area here in Maryland. When I left work today, the air "smelled" like fall. I am not sure I can describe how that smells but I could feel the coolness inside my nostrils. There was a touch of burning with a hint of dampness. That is not an apt description. I am sure I could be much more "sensory" with effort but the important thing was today felt as though Thanksgiving is just down the road.

I usually host the family dinner on Thanksgiving but this past February we moved from our entertaining friendly home to a smaller condo. I love the condo and it is just what we wanted but I am not sure Thanksgiving is a "buffet" type meal. My sister-in-law will host it instead. I am not trying to get out of my usual role. I love my home at Thanksgiving because it is extra clean, there is plenty of food (and then leftovers), and there is always an abundance of books ready for me to cut into! I love Friday because it is my day to enjoy the solitude with my books and to laugh at everyone trying to get holiday sales. I can still do that. I just have to make sure I get my house extra clean anyway.

Veterans' Day

2008-11-11T21:49:00.005-05:00

Have you thanked a Veteran lately? I admit that I often take for granted all the freedoms that I have. Simple things - such as writing this blog - saying just what is on my mind. Oh yes, I know that to be in good taste I need to "self" censor, but I can write about my freedoms without the fear that someone else will step in. Just last week I was able to vote for the man who will lead our nation and I was able to have a voice in the policies that will affect my state in the future. No blood was shed in this process. My voice was heard. In some instances, my views fell with the majority and in some, my views fell short. The important thing was that I had the chance to speak. There are not many places in the world where others can say this. I work in a "public" school. The doors are open to all who live within our boundaries. The education is there for the "picking!" This is a freedom! In just a few weeks, I will celebrate a holiday important in my religion. No one will stop me. This is a freedom!

I guess my ramblings lead to this: all of these freedoms are thanks to a Veteran. I did not have to fight because they did. Today, I took time to remember this. My favorite radio station played the Star Spangled Banner. It took me by surprise; it took my breath away; I cried.

101 Things to Do in 1001 Days - Revisited

2008-11-10T15:36:00.002-05:00

If you scroll down the page or look for the post in June 2008 you will see my list of things to do in 1001 Days. I have updated it to show completed items. I am doing some things. I am having fun trying to complete this.

A New Face

2008-11-10T15:26:00.003-05:00

I am changing directions. I have decided to go in a new direction here. This blog will be devoted to sharing news, notes, and musings. I am going to have another devoted just to reviews. That will be called Jottings on a Page. I hope to have that up and running soon. In the meantime feel free to drop in here. Join me with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of wine as I share some of my thoughts. Of course some book talk may drift in but my actual reviews and challenge lists will be on my other site. I hope you will stop by and visit both spots.

Theme Challenge

2008-06-23T06:59:00.003-05:00

Well, I read four cozies as I said I would and I read the four authors listed. I do not remember if I own Knitting Bones or Death by Darjeeling. If I do, I do not have a clue where they are; however, there are several boxes of books still to be moved so maybe that is where they are hiding. Anyway, I went to the public library on Friday to find them and of course they were checked out. The next best thing, as I saw it, was to find two books by the same authors in the same series which I did. So in my mind I met my challenge. Well technically I guess I didn't considering I said I would read those two and didn't, but I did read four cozy mysteries. In fact in the long haul I have read several more. I want to get my thoughts together and my entire list of titles and I will post mini reviews later today. Now I am off to read John Adams by David McCullough. I have 1776 by the same author on reserve at the library too. These are two for the 12 books of history I want to read in the next 1001 days!

The Summer Extravaganza

2008-06-22T13:18:00.002-05:00

I am going to participate in The Friendly Book Nook's Summer Reading Extravaganza. It runs from June 23 - June 27. Each day they will post a topic and all you have to do is respond to that topic and link your response to their site. In addition to the fun of reading and writing, there are prizes involved. Check out their blog to find out more details and join the fun.

http://thefriendlybooknook.com/2008/06/14/the-friendly-book-nooks-summer-reading-extravaganza/

Friday Fillins

2008-06-20T10:46:00.002-05:00

1. A smile is reflecting sunshine.

2. Apples to Apples is my favorite board or card game.

3. I would love to have more music in my life and less fat.

4. When I think of the Summer Solstice, I think of a festival welcoming two months of fun.

5. I just remembered I need to find the missing boxes of books lost in our move.

6. One of my favorite song lyrics goes like this: "I took my troubles down to Madame Ruth...(Love Potion #9)

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to pizza and a movie, tomorrow my plans include working on cleaning out my old house and Sunday, I want to read!

Return to Challenges

2008-06-20T06:09:00.005-05:00

My Summer vacation officially started at 9:30 AM on Monday, June 16. Now I am ready to settle in to my long abandoned challenges. Although I have been reading, I have neglected the lists of books that I "intended" to read. Here I go.

I am going to tackle the Themed Reading Challenge first. I committed to reading:

1. Blueberry Muffin Murder - Fluke
2. Lavender Lies - Susan Wittig Albert
3. Knitting Bones - Monica Ferris
4. Death by Darjeeling - Laura Childs.

I will report on these four books as I finish them. This is my goal for the rest of June. None of these are particularly long so it should not be difficult. In fact, I have already read #1 and #2. In fact, I have read several other cozies to make up for #3 and #4. Maybe that will count?

Now I am off to get cozy.

I Can Do Anything

2008-06-18T07:44:00.002-05:00

101 Things to Do in 1001 Days

2008-06-18T06:47:00.007-05:00

June 17, 2008 - March 15, 2011

1. Drink 3 glasses of water a day (at least).
2. Color my hair a new color.
3. Establish a food plan. (I joined Weight Watchers.)
4. Live on food plan for one month.
5. Make a budget.
6. Live within that budget for one month (at least).
7. Buy flowers for my desk at school in the middle of February.
8. Wear perfume every day for one month.
9. Wear make up every day for one month.
10. Give an anonymous gift.
11. Get a manicure.
12. Get a pedicure with red polish.
13. Get a facial.
14. Lose weight.
15. Complete Simple Abundance for one year.
16. Keep a journal for one year.
17. Keep a gratitude journal for one year.
18. Thank 101 people.
19. Save $20 a month (extra).
20. Contribute to savings $5 for every item on this list completed.
21. Contribute to savings $10 for every item on this list not completed.
22. Contribute to savings $1 for every pound lost.
23. Call Janet 2x a month (at least).
24. Read the Bible through.
25. Walk 3x a week.
26. Read one classic a month. (list to follow)
27. Vote
28. Read 75 books a year (at least).
29. Take a Spanish class.
30. Establish a proactive school calendar and to do list.
31. Make a school "fun" box of supplies.
32. Read 10 children's classics. (list to follow).
33. Get a library card for the library in my new neighborhood.
34. Have an evening theme meal and movie.
35. Have a picnic dinner.
36. Read a book on aromatherapy.
37. Practice one idea from aromatherapy.
38. Spend one evening listening to classical music.
39. Read poetry one night.
40. Go to a play.
41. Take a class for FUN.
42. Have a Discovery TV Theme night.
43. Write a story.
44. Have a Mystery/Forensic Theme night.
45. Write on my blog 3x a week (at least).
46. No TV one night a month (at least).
47. Read 10 books on history or politics (list to follow).
48. Do a book of Suduko.
49. Do The Artist's Way.
50. Complete a cross stitch project.
51. Take pictures and create a scrapbook of 105 themes (link to project to follow).
52. Visit Solomon's Maryland.
53. Spend the weekend in Chincoteage, VA.
54. Return to Apple Valley Inn, Sevierville, TN.
55. Take the family to the Outer Banks.
56. Visit a new Bed and Breakfast.
57. Visit 1000 Islands New York.
58. Spend a weekend in NYC.
59. Visit Chuck and Mel and see Hoboken.
60. Play tourist and go in to DC.
61. Go to the DC Zoo.
62. Return to the Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels.
63. Do another Southern Living Weekend.
64. Visit Colonial Beach and take pictures to match Mom's pictures from her childhood.
65. Take the Cumberland Train.
66. Go to Rocky Gap.
67. Take a cruise (2010?)
68. Go to Bermuda.
69. Visit West Point.
70. Visit Scranton.
71. Take Mike and Courtney to NY to see Christmas Decorations.
72. Visit Yorktown and Jamestown.
73. Do an AARP Bus trip.
74. Take a Chesapeake boat trip.
75. Visit Charleston, SC.
76. Have a party.
77. Have a big birthday party for Jim and me in 2010.
78. Make a clothes plan each season.
79. Organize clothes for the week every Sunday evening.
80. Organize jewelry making supplies.
81. Organize scrapbook supplies.
82. Make a container garden for our balcony.
83. Make a "herb" garden for our balcony.
84. Decorate for Christmas.
85. Decorate for harvest festival.
86. Have a harvest meal.
87. Celebrate Summer solstice.
88. Celebrate Midsummer Night.
89. Have a spring feast.
90. Stock a winter pantry.
91. Celebrate Candlemas (Feb. 2).
92. Have a formal dinner.
93. Make a Flylady book.
94. Do Flylady morning routine.
95. Do Flylady evening routine.
96. Organize address and phone book.
97. Do a birthday reminder calendar.
98. Organize monthly birthday cards to mail.
99. Organize photos and do one scrapbook.
100. Have a Christmas Feast.
101. Return to Montchanin.
102. Post this list.

Reminders

2008-06-17T09:15:00.001-05:00

Mommy, now that you are home, can we have a biscuit?

2008-06-17T09:06:00.002-05:00

It has been quite some time since I sat down and aded anything to my blog. I have not been in hibernation but I have been enjoying my life outside the cyberworld. School was hectic; books were grabbing me; and family was surrounding it all.

Now that summer is here (not officially but educationally) I am free to spend more time online. I am making it one of my 101 things to do in 1001 days. Although I am not sure I am going to post my list on the officail site, I am going to publishe it here. That will hold me accountable as well.

Summer started with a Memorial Day wedding of my nephew and his longtime sweetheart. It was an exciting, wild weekend and I will cherish and remember it always.

Blueberry Muffin Murder by Joanne Fluke

2008-01-07T08:28:00.000-05:00

Blueberry Muffin Murder by Joanne Fluke
Mystery/Cozy
Date Completed: 1/5/2008
Rating: 8/10 (Enjoyable)
2008 Theme Challenge - Cozies
#1

From Publishers Weekly

In her third top-of-the-line culinary cozy (after 2001's Strawberry Shortcake Murder), the delightful amateur sleuth Hannah Swensen once again faces murder and mayhem with good cheer. To fight the late February doldrums, Lake Eden, Minn., is about to celebrate its first winter carnival with ice sports on the lake, activities for children and Hannah's delicious cookies from her shop, the Cookie Jar. The whole town is involved, and even Hannah's mother, who usually spends her time trying to get Hannah married, has found a new interest in recreating the home of one of Lake Eden's founding fathers. Connie MacIntyre, bestselling cook book author and star of a popular cable TV cooking show, has agreed to make the cake for the carnival banquet. But when Hannah discovers Connie's dead body in the pantry of the Cookie Jar, Hannah and her sister Andrea join forces to track down the killer, despite warnings by one of her boyfriends, policeman Mike Kensington, to stay out of the investigation. Since everyone who had contact with the abusive Connie disliked her, the sisters have plenty of suspects. Delicious food descriptions and recipes, warm and familiar characters who grow into real people (Hannah's increasing respect for Andrea is a highlight), a vivid picture of the small lake town and a well-crafted mystery provide the ingredients for yet another tempting feast that should satisfy all fans, old and new. (Mar. 5) Forecast: A simple, bold jacket featuring a skull formed by blueberries in a sliced muffin sends just the right message to attract cozy fans.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

Cozies are such a pleasant way to spend a few days. They serve as a wonderful escape from what is going on around us. Not that murder is pleasant or an escape for that matter, but that isn't the purpose of a cozy. The murder is simply a chance to introduce the readers to a group of people and to their usually peaceful community. One thing I look forward to in cozies in the "gimmick." Each series seems to have a hook. Blueberry Muffin Murder is no different. Author Joanne Fluke includes several recipes in her book.

I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to continuing the series. Fluke has created characters that are easy to like. There is enough to them that I want to see what happens to the few things that have been hinted at.

I would recommend this to any fan of cozies. This is not complicated or deep but it serves its purpose to entertain.

Golden Buddha by Clive Cussler

2008-01-02T23:42:00.001-05:00

Golden Buddha by Clive Cussler

Contemporary Fiction/Adventure

Date Completed: 1/2/2008

Rating: 7.5/10 (Good)

2008 First in a Series Challenge

From the Publisher

The New York Post called him "just about the best storyteller in the business." Now, Clive Cussler, creator of the bestselling NUMA(r) and Dirk Pitt(r) series, presents his latest and most intriguing high-seas action hero: the enigmatic captain of the Oregon, Juan Cabrillo.Only Cabrillo could convert the interior of a nondescript lumber hauler into a state-of-the-art spy ship -- and only he could take the helm on the dangerous covert missions it carries out for whichever US agency pays the price.In this first feature-length adventure, Cabrillo and his crew of expert intelligence and naval men must put Tibet back in the hands of the Dalai Lama by striking a deal with the Russians and Chinese. His gambling chip is a Golden Buddha containing records of vast oil reserves in the disputed land.But first, he'll have to locate -- and steal -- the all-important artifact. And there are certain people who would do anything in their power to see him fail . . .

This is the first Clive Cussler book that I have read. My husband is a great fan and he encouraged me to try this out. The story is strong on plot. There are conflicts, action, and surprises. The reader is propelled from one event to the next making this a fast read. But, by the end of the novel, I felt something was lacking. After digesting the story a bit, I realized the problem was that I didn't care. I didn't care if Cabrillo returned the Dalai Lama to Tibet, I didn't care if the Golden Buddha was in the hands of the "good guys"; I just didn't care what happened to any of the characters. Cussler makes no attempt to develop the crew of the Oregon. Each man and woman was more a plot device than a person.

I will read the next in the series because my husband wants me to and because there is a good adventure. I hope I learn more about these characters so that it matters whether they complete their tasks without harm.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T23:32:00.000-05:00

2008 is off and reading! Well, it is 2008 and I have begun my challenges with a vengeance. I started with the "First in a Series" book for January, Golden Buddha by Clive Cussler. I will post my review separately.

It is cold and clear here in the Mid-Atlantic. The only precipitation we have had recently is a cold dreary rain. I don't think I am complaining. I love snow but I am not sure I really want to be bothered. I guess I am looking for a snow-day excuse to get some unplanned reading time in.

But to each of you I hope 2008 is filled with possibilities fulfilled for everyone and I hope all your challenges are met.

In Their Shoes

2007-12-23T10:24:00.001-05:00

Memoirs, Autobiographies, and Biographies....I don't read this genre much and I am glad there is a challenge for this. So here goes....

1. The Glass Castle by Jeanette Wells
2. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
3. Mockingbird by Charles Shields
4. Truth and Beauty by Ann Patchett.

I may add a few more as I find them but this is my primary list.

What's in a Name

2007-12-23T10:13:00.000-05:00

Will my challenges ever end? Here is another great idea. Reading books that fit certain categories.

1. Woman in White by Wilke Collins (a book with a color in the title)
2. To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis (a book with an animal in the title)
3. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte (a book with a first name in the title)
4. Sweetwater Creek by Anne River Siddons (a book with a place in the title)
5. Chill Factor by Sandra Brown (a book with a weather event in the title)
6. Land of Mango Sunsets (a book with a plant in the title)

This is my list for the challenge. Who thinks of these challenges? They are all so intriguing.

A Year of Reading Dangerously

2007-12-22T10:48:00.000-05:00

I am also participating in this challenge. I will read the official list (below) and participate in the discussions. The only one I have already read is January's choice but it is my favorite Dickens (well maybe next to Tale of Two Cities). So now all I need to do is wait......

The Twelve "Official" Novels by month

January: Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens

February: The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison (African American)

March: Cat's Eye, by Margaret Atwood (Atwood for Atwood's sake)

April: Transformations, by Anne Sexton (Poetry)

May: Other Voices, Other Rooms, by Truman Capote (Southern)

June: Lolita, by Vladimir Nabokov (Russian)

July: The Chocolate War, by Robert Cormier (adolescent)

August: Maus I and II, by Art Spiegelman (Graphic Novel, Pulitzer winner)

September: The Secret Lives of People in Love, by Simon Van Booy (Independent)

October: The Human Stain, by Philip Roth (Contemporary/Jewish)

November: A Month of Classic Short Stories, Various - watch for a list

December: The Grapes of Wrath, by John Steinbeck (Dusty)

Themed Reading Challenge - January - June 2008

2007-12-21T10:19:00.000-05:00

In keeping with the First in a Series idea, my theme will be "Cozies." There may be some overlap with the other series but I have tried to avoid it as much as possible.

1. Blueberry Muffin Murder - Fluke
2. Lavender Lies - Susan Wittig Albert
3. Knitting Bones - Monica Ferris
4. Death by Darjeeling - Laura Childs.

First in a Series (2008)

2007-12-21T08:29:00.000-05:00

Here is the list of books for the second challenge I plan to do!

1. Golden Buddha - Cussler
2. Rules of Prey - Sandford
3. Thyme of Death - Albert
4. Framed in Lace - Ferris
5. Chocolate Chip Murder - Fluke
6. Death by Darjeeling - Childs
7. Baltimore Blues - Lippman
8. Generous Death - Pickard
9. A Taste for Murder - Bishop
10. Killer Hair - Byerrum
11. Dying to Sing - Chittenden
12. The Ghost and Mrs. McClure - Kimberly

I guess it is obvious that most of my choices are also "Cozies." I haven't really read any for a while and I think it will be an enjoyable way to spend some time!

2007-12-21T08:28:00.000-05:00

2008 TBR Challenge

2007-12-18T10:12:00.000-05:00

I am ready to post my TBR Challenge list today. Finally! This was difficult so I have an Alternate list as well. I finished the 2007 Challenge so there is nothing "pending" - all new titles.

2008 TBR

1. The Namesake - Jhumpa Lahiri
2. A Thousand Splendid Suns - Hosseini
3. X-President - Baruth
4. The Historian - Kostova
5. Mistress of the Art of Death - Franklin
6. The Other Boleyn Girl - Gregory
7. Being Mrs. Alcott - Geary
8. The Remains of the Day - Ishigiro
9. Whistling in the Dark - Kagen
10. Queen of the Big Time - Trigliani
11. Ya Yas in Bloom - Wells
12. True and Outstanding Adventures of the Hunt Sisters - Robinson

Alternate List

1. Case History - Atkinson
2. Jude the Obscure - Hardy
3. House of Mirth - Wharton
4. The Savage Garden - Mills
5. Cross - Patterson
6. In Secret Service - Silver
7. Zig Zag - Wittenger
8. Track of the Cat - Barr
9. Truth and Beauty - Patchett
10. Pardonable Lies - Winspear
11. Aprons on a Clothes Line - DePree
12. Serpent - Cussler

Challenges Winding Down

2007-12-03T16:24:00.000-05:00

I have been assessing my progress with the Challenges I participated in this year. I don't know if I am going to make my goals!

I have one more book to read in the 2007 TBR challenge: Time Traveler's Wife. I am starting that tonight so hopefully I will make that.

I have one more book for the Chunkster Challenge: David Copperfield. I refuse to give up even though the challenge is long over. I plan to start this after TTW.

I have two more books for the Armchair Traveler: Dynasty by Robert Elegant and A Thousand Splendid Suns.

There is some possibility that I will make these, but I will never finish Something About Me. I have decided to make the first books on my 2008 TBR list the books I don't get to for these challenges. They will be at the top of my list.

A Favorite Book

2007-12-03T16:15:00.000-05:00

I put out one of may favorite Christmas books. This has a collection of stories, poems, songs, recipes, and pictures. I never get tired of looking through it and the stories never get old. This is one of my favorite books to give as a gift. I just made a cup of tea and I am off to read a story now.

Cooking and Nasty Weather

2007-12-03T16:03:00.000-05:00

We are having a bout of nasty weather. No snow, but it is cold, rainy, and very windy. Yesterday I made a big pot of French onion soup.

I used 1/4 cup of unsalted (sweet) butter (Land o' Lakes brand)
3 lbs white onions
1 large container of chicken broth
1 large container of beef broth
1/4 cup dry white wine
fresh parsley and fresh thyme

I melt the butter while I thinly slice the onion. I don't really chop it but I don't use the full circles of onion either. I keep in mind eating it neatly (lol). I add the onion to the melted butter and cook on medium for 40 minutes stirring frequently until onions are soft and clear.

Then I add the liquids and the parsley and thyme. I cook on low for at least one hour. I try to fish out the herbs before serving. I put the soup into individual crocks with slice of baguette and then a slice of cheese and put into oven until cheese is melted and bubbly brown.

The original recipe calls for Swiss cheese but Jim likes a milder cheese like Provolone or mozzarella.

It hit the spot in the cold.

December

2007-12-02T07:28:00.000-05:00

I want to share the rest of the verse from Abbie Graham that I have at the beginning of my blog. I found this in my Simpe Abundance book. I still turn to that for gentle words.

"I open the door. The gorgeous guest from afar sweeps in. In her hands are her gifts --the gifts of house and far-seeing moments, the gift of mornings and evenings, the gift of spring and summer, the gift of autumn and winter. She must have searched the heavens for boons so rare."

I love thinking of December this way, ending a year of treasures. Even though 2007 bought sorrow, there is much to be learned from those events and that makes them as wonderfully important as the joyful moments.

Relaxing by Candle Light

2007-11-26T19:48:00.000-05:00

Candles are a gift of light,
A tiny sun, a bit of star.
No other dancer in the night
Dances with such sheer delight,
Little souls serene and bright,
Each a glimpse of what we are
Shining innocent and pure.

Copyright by Nicholas Gordon

I found this little poem online. Lately, in the evening we have been lighting scented candles around the house. It has made the house so warm and cozy. Reading together with our gas stove and beautiful candles made the Thanksgiving weekend a pleasure.

I particularly like Yankee candles but I have a pillar candle from Bath and Body that is especially fragrant. Today when I came in from school the house still smelled wonderful. I almost didn't want to cook for fear that would change the aroma.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-25T16:23:00.000-05:00

It hasn't been cold enough yet for a three dog night but definitely a two dogger! These are two of the things for which I am extremely thankful. Greta and Gracie certainly liven up this old place but even the pets must rest after a big meal!

Return to Blogging

2007-11-25T16:00:00.000-05:00

Don't you think it is about time for me to return to my computer. I wish I had a good excuse....Well maybe I do.

I have been working diligently to revamp my Advanced Placement course syllabus to successfully meet the College Board audit guidelines. My reading and writing requirements were already rigorous but I need to add sufficient peer review activities. With that out of the way and my syllabus approved I escaped into my world of books. Isn't reading a good excuse?

But family has a way of wriggling in. My son returned from an eight month deployment to the Gulf in May and we have been making up for lost time by visiting back and forth from her to Virginia Beach. I do so enjoy my grandma role. Both children in Virginia Beach are fast becoming avid readers so of course grandma is quickly trying to keep up with great Children's Lit.

I guess it seems odd to come back to blogging at the onset of the busy holiday season but I find that I really miss this world of online chatting. So here I am back to the wonderful world of words.

Today is My Day

2007-07-21T08:30:00.000-05:00

I have been waiting for the latest and last Harry Potter installment for a while now. I was upset to see that it was being shipped from Barnes and Noble UPS. They don't usually deliver on Saturday. Was I excited when Brown pulled up out front this morning! My dh is going fishing today and I have worked hard all week cleaning and straightening for our children's visits next weekend. I have earned a weekend of peace, quiet and The Deathly Hallows. I am brewing another pot of coffee and I am heading outside to my secret garden under my favorite tree. I certainly hope Jim has fun fishing because I KNOW I'm in for a treat. UH, if you call my machine will pick up!

Dissolution

2007-07-20T12:18:00.000-05:00

Dissolution: A Novel of Tudor England
C. J. Sansom

Rating:
Excellent - A
9/10

From the back cover...
"The year is 1537 and England is divided between those faithful to the Catholic Church and those loyal to the king and the newly established Church of England. When a royal commissioner is murdered in the monastery of Scarnesea on the south coast of England. Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII's feared Vicar General, summons fellow reformer Matthew Shardlake to lead the inquiry. Shardlake and his young protege, Mark Poer, uncover evidence of sexual misconduct, embezzlement, and treason but when two other murders are committed, they must move quickly to prevent the killer from striking again."

C. J. Sanson leads the reader into a corrupt British monastery during the harsh English winter of 1537. Readers see religious life on the downward spiral as well as power out of control. This book introduces court lawyer turned sleuth, Matthew Shardlake. This man is strong but flawed which makes him a admirable and sympathetic character. This mystery, first in a series, holds the reader's attention containing the requirements for a dynamic page-turner.

This is my first Armchair Traveler review. Dissolution took me to Tudor England. I experienced the ardor of religious reformation during an out of the ordinary frigid winter. I am looking forward to Sanson's next Shardlake mystery.

Independence Day

2007-07-05T09:19:00.000-05:00

I know that yesterday was the real Independence Day but today I am doing the first real deep cleaning since school got out. I am really dedicating this month to some real home projects so that once school starts again I won't have any daunting projects looming. Today, though, is just a routine deep cleaning especially in the Living Room which we rarely use so it is easy to ignore. After that I may resort to Flylady's routines along with my projects.

I am definitely not a housekeeper. I would much rather do craft projects, read, or write. I admire my friends who have outside jobs and still manage to keep a picture perfect home. Jim and I definitely "live" in our home! But I must cut this off now and end my break. Perhaps, I can post some pictures as I go along.

June Reads

2007-07-02T18:44:00.001-05:00

I had a fantastic month of reading especially considering I had to deal with the end of school. I feel like this was a great start to a "reading" summer.

Wild Fire by Nelson DeMille
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian - audio
The Cold Moon by Jeffery Deaver
The Road by Cormac McCarthy - audio
A Civil Action by Jonathan Harr - NF Challenge
Wild Swans by Jung Chang - Freedom to Read Challenge
Faithless by Karin Slaughter
For One More Day by Mitch Albom
Sacajawea by Anna Lee Waldo - Chunkster Challenge
Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King
The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison - Freedom to Read Challenge
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult - audio
Parable of the Talents by Octavia Butler - tbr challenge

Female authors - 6
Male authors - 7

I haven't written any reviews or responses to my reading but I want to say a few things about some of these books so I will do that in the next few days. For the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed these books. I am glad that I picked them.

My Birthday

2007-06-29T06:56:00.000-05:00

Well as much as we may try to avoid them, birthdays roll around every year! Mine is here today. I don't feel 57 (however that might feel). When I see myself, I see the girl I was in college. Whether anyone else sees me this way, I don't know; but, I still enjoy all the things I did then and I still have many of the same friends. Don't get me wrong. My life hasn't been stagnant over the past 35 years. Things have come and gone and events have changed my life; but nonetheless, I remain happy, optimistic, and grateful. I have a wonderful life.

Today, I will share the day with my son who receives a Navy medal today for service on the Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier while stationed in the Gulf for the past eight months. What better present could I receive? I will be with him and his wonderful family and his friends.

I don't mind birthdays, but I love parties and today will be a real celebration. I am glad you dropped by to celebrate too.

The Joys of My Yard

2007-06-27T06:58:00.000-05:00

Simple Abundance - Simple Pleasures

2007-06-27T06:46:00.000-05:00

Do you remember when Sarah Ban Breathnach's book Simple Abundance became so popular? I jumped on the bandwagon immediately. It was something I needed. Now, over 10 years later, I still turn to it to get me back on track. I had a particularly hectic spring; summer was a promise of relief. Finally, it's here and I am blessed with time: time to relax; time for myself; time to simplify; and time to acknowledge the abundance that is mine.

Breathnach prefaces the "June" section with a wonderful description. "June is generous with her authentic gifts. Once again the days are sunny and hot. The roses and peonies are in bloom, and it's time to feast on strawberries and cream. School is over, summer camp begins, and visions of vacations dance in our heads. Our smiles deepen, our laughter increases, our hearts open. This month we rediscover that it is life's enrichments rather than the riches of life that bring us true contentment."

As June comes to a close this weekend, I will celebrate my grandson's birthday, my son's birthday, and my own. I have lived the joys of June and look forward to the gifts July has in store.

Greta and Gracie

2007-06-25T20:25:00.000-05:00

These are my best girls. Greta is an Irish Jack Russell Terrier and Gracie is a German Shepherd. They are great help. They plop themselves right down on the carpet so I don't have to vacuum the whole thing and they watch out for bad guys while I quietly read. They are great friends. In fact, Greta grooms Gracie every night after dinner. The funny thing about the G-girls is that they divide their time between my hubby and me. They show no favoritism (unless during the movie one runs out of popcorn first)!

Armchair Traveler

2007-06-25T13:51:00.000-05:00

Two of my favorite things - travel and reading - make this challenge a sure thing for me. Listed below are six books that will take me around the world from July - December.

1. On the Road by Jack Kerouac - US
2. Tea House on Mulberry Street by Sharon Owens - Ireland
3. Dynasty by Robert Elegant - China
4. Cold Dish by Craig Johnson - Wyoming
5. Dissolution by C. J. Sansom - England (Tudor England!)
6. A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini - Afghanistan

I can't wait for the challenge to begin.

More Squirrels

2007-06-24T07:33:00.001-05:00

Squirrels

2007-06-24T07:13:00.000-05:00

I love squirrels. I know many people see them as rodents with a bad chewing habit; but I think they are cute. I admire their ambition. Squirrels never play until the work is done and they don't overeat. What their bellies can't hold they put away for a rainy day (well actually a snowy day but that ruins the old saying)!

We feed the squirrels and in return we get hours of entertainment. We have been doing this for years and in fact the same "clan" has lived in our yard since we moved in. I know it's the same clan because they have white on their ears (thus the name Clan of the White Ears).

Some of the squirrels are nervous especially because Greta and Gracie see these guys as threats to our security and threats to their positions of authority; but on the whole the squirrels know their limits and can gauge the speed needed to out run the G - girls. Some of the squirrels are calm and simply enjoy a meal in the shade of a big tree, but some of the squirrels are gutsy and stand up for what is theirs.

I thought you would like to see a couple of our friends. I love these fellows.

Out of Town Visitors

2007-06-22T06:27:00.000-05:00

One thing wonderful about living in or near a big city is that business brings friends to town. Because I am near both Baltimore and Washington, I frequently get a double blessing.

I had the pleasure of seeing an old friend (at least 10 years) last night as her work brought her to a conference in Washington, DC. The drive to DC is usually 1 1/2 hours but I was going in at the dinner hour so "rush hour" factored in. I don't mind driving at all but I just got new glasses and the adjustment has been difficult so I dragged along my husband who was going to "hang out" with a friend who is a Secret Service agent at the White House.

My friend has not changed. We picked up our conversation right from our last email. I wanted to take her to a "pub" type restaurant near the White House so we could "sightsee" as we walked but dinner reservations in DC can be tricky so we just set out to see what we could find. Ultimately, we found a steak house where we could sit outside. Our waiter was sweet because in this area in the late afternoon thunder storms pop up and one looked threatening. He reserved a table under cover for us "just in case" which turned out to be very necessary. But a little storm didn't dampen our conversation. We talked books, business, and politics (how could we not with the White House just blocks away). We reminisced and of course talked grandchildren. By the time we were finished so had the rain and we were able to walk back to her hotel where I picked up my devastatingly handsome and gallant chauffeur for our ride home. By the way he grumbled about coming in to DC but ended up having a great time with his friend and he had a good meal too.

I love having friends that you don't need to fill in "background" information...Just pick up where you left off. I wish I could have spent more time with her but her conference takes up her days and I am involved in end of school activities and getting ready for a brief trip to Virginia Beach to see my son get an award. We will celebrate my birthday and son's and grandson's while we are there. There is no better present.

I welcome you all to DC or Baltimore. Now, I know a great steak house near the White House and the crabs in Baltimore are outstanding. We can pick up right where we left off...

Summer - Vacation

2007-06-21T05:18:00.000-05:00

First of all, I can't believe that I have not written since my Spring Break to Cancun. I can only say that I have been overwhelmed by the responsibilities of life (as if everyone else hasn't been!). I will have to post pictures from the trip. Cancun was delightful although the traveling had its less than perfect moments.

Today is not only the first day of summer, but it is the first day of my summer vacation. School ended yesterday and I am looking forward to a relaxing and productive break. I have my summer resolutions. (and so far I am right on schedule - lol!)

After I complete my journey through my favorite blogs, I plan to take my book and coffee and sit in my yard for a bit. Ironically, I am still reading Sacajawea by Anna Lee Waldo. I say ironically because Sacajawea went to Cancun with us. When he first saw the book, my hubby said "That is a book crying out for Reader's Digest Condensed books." I will not give up!

I am back to my regular posting schedule so hopefully there will be no more gaps of such proportion. But first, my coffee and my book await...

Spring Break

2007-03-29T15:24:00.000-05:00

I could easily make this post a Thursday Thirteen - why I need spring break - but instead I'll simply say I am off tomorrow evening for "Spring Break." I don't think you will see me on MTV or in the next video of "Girls Gone Wild" but I am headed for Cancun and it is my break.

Jim and I went a few years ago and loved it so when we were planning this vacation we didn't hesitate to look at Cancun. To be precise, we will be staying in Riviera Maya which is south of Cancun and much more "resorty." We will be staying at the Occidental Grand Xcaret. I have researched it and know that when it first opened it did have a few negative comments from guests but after five years it seems to be getting glowing reports and our travel agent enthusiastically recommended it. The Grand is an all inclusive resort so we don't have to count pennies for our meals. One big draw was that it doesn't welcome college spring breakers and there is an all adult section. We love our kiddies but we look forward to some quiet time.

I am supposed to be finishing my packing but I have everything set except the few books I plan to take. I still haven't made my "final cut."

I hope to be able to post some wonderful pictures when I return. I won't be posting; but, I will be gathering thoughts for my return.

Friends' Recommendations

2007-03-26T15:21:00.000-05:00

Do you worry about hurting your friends' feelings when it comes to book suggestions? I have a small group of friends whose opinions I highly value especially when it comes to books. (Many of them I have met online and in the world of blogs.) When I find a kindred spirit in literature, I hate to disappoint them when I don't share their enthusiasm. And every once in a while, I don't.

I don't know why I worry so because I understand when my book friends don't share all my tastes - for example I know not to recommend any gruesome murder or true crime books to Nan and we both want to know if the doggy gets hurt if he is featured prominently in a story. But I hate to think I would hurt my friends' feelings by not loving their favorites.

Heather works with me and she could be my daughter. In fact, many of our students think we are related; we are that much alike. But besides all the books we love together, she has a real quirky side that I don't have. I read all her recommendations though because I want to see what she likes and she faithfully reads the coming of age stories that I push on her (even though I know she doesn't quite "get" growing up in the 60s!)

But am I alone? Do any of you tread lightly with your friends and their recommendations? I guess I need to figure this one out for myself.

February Books

2007-03-26T15:05:00.000-05:00

I realize that I didn't post the list of books that I read in February. I actually had a great month of reading. My list for March won't be quite as long; I got bogged down along the way.

So here is the February list:

1. The Innocent Man by John Grisham 8.5/10
2. The Bright Forever by Lee Martin 10/10 - I absolutely loved this book. It is the story set in the early 1960s about the disappearance of a nine year old girl who was supposed to be returning her library books one evening after dinner. The story is told from the perspectives of various family and neighbors. It is only well into the story that the reader sees that one of the narrators may be involved. It isn't at all gruesome - sad but not graphic. I know why I bought it but can't for the life of me think why it took me so long to pick it up.
3. O Pioneers by Willa Cather 9/10 Cather is the best.
4. Ricochet by Sandra Brown 8/10 I read this for the Southern Living Authors' weekend. It was a good mystery/romance.
5. Native Son by Richard Wright 8/10 Very gruesome and sad - read this for school.
6. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott 8.5/10 I have seen the movies but hadn't read the book. I am glad I did.
7. Point Blank by Catherine Coulter 8/10 a good mystery
8. gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson 9/10 loved it, loved meeting her at the Southern Living Weekend
9. Last Seen Wearing by Colin Dexter 7.5/10 OK mystery
10. Hannibal by Thomas Harris 7/10 I really only finished this because my friend raved about it. I hate to hurt her feelings because usually we agree.

That is it. I had a fantastic February!

Spring Challenge

2007-03-24T14:21:00.001-05:00

OK, I can't resist yet another challenge so I am posting four titles that I plan to read for this. I think I am turning to my tbr alternate list. I have so many extra books; I am not hard pressed to find books to read so here is my list:

1. Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin
2. Three Junes by Julia Glass
3. The Grandmothers by Doris Lessing
4. Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King

These books have been in my stacks for months (and some years!) This is a good chance to get them on my finished shelf!

2007-03-24T14:00:00.000-05:00

We love to watch movies at our house and with grandchildren we have become familiar with the new Disney! I had to take this picture. We have a sofa and a love seat that have good views of the television so why did they all cram in the recliner? I guess I just wish there were room for me too. Lazy bums.

At least it gave grandma some quiet time to read. We love the kiddies visits.

Southern Living Winter Writers' Weekend

2007-03-03T07:12:00.000-05:00

I am here at the Inn at Biltmore Estate. This is the Sixth annual writers' weekend sponsored by Southern Living magazine. Last night, we had dinner together in the Ballroom and after the meal of filet mignon and salmon, author Joshilyn Jackson spoke. Her two books gods in Alabama and Between, Georgia were the focus of her talk. She is very funny. I have only read gods in Alabama but the other book is on my book shelf and now I plan to move it to the top of my stack.

On tap today is a breakfast that features recipes from Southern Living and the talks by the other two authors, Sandra Brown and Rick Bragg. This afternoon is a tea and book signing. In between, I will visit the winery to buy some Biltmore Estate wine.

This is always a nice weekend but it is usually in early February. Moving it to early March makes the weather more spring like and a nice change from chilly Maryland.

I will share more from my weekend later.

Freedom to Read Challenge

2007-03-01T05:59:00.000-05:00

Ok - I think I have the four books that I have committed to read for the Freedom to Read Challenge. In addition, there are three more books I am reading for other challenges. It was difficult for me to choose because there are so many excellent books on both the ALA list of most frequently challenged books and the list published by the Pelham Public Library (which is sponsoring the challenge). I have read several of the titles already. How could I miss them as an English major and teacher!

Anyway, here is the list:

1. Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China
2. The Goats
3. The Face on the Milk Carton
4. A Wrinkle in Time
*5. Of Mice and Men (I am going to have to reread this for the American Lit class I teach)
*6. The Sun Also Rises (a tbr alternate)
*7. The Invisible Man (but I am not counting this one really because I am reading it for the Chunkster Challenge)

I think these should keep me busy. I am curious to know the reasons for the challenges but the lists don't say. I'll see if I can figure them out myself.

I emailed the librarian of my county library and she said they don't keep a list of challenges because they are so infrequent nor do they remove books. Who am I to doubt a public official, but I live in a VERY conservative area and I find it very hard to believe the library doesn't get many challenges. It was this school system that removed the book My Butt, the Earth, and other Round Things (I hope I have the correct title). But my library is enlightened.

So as of the first of March, I am a member of the Banned Book Club!

Banned Books - Freedom to Read

2007-02-28T09:45:00.000-05:00

Do I need ANOTHER challenge? How can I resist? I have been looking at lists of books that are most frequently challenged and I have been surprised not by the number that I have read but by the number I have not read. These seem to be all children's books or books for young adults. I guess I have to accept this challenge and read some of these books. I will post my list to read on the sidebar so that it will be easy for me to keep up with.

On another note, I have realized that I really have not written much during February. I must settle down and really do some reviews of books that I have finished this month. There are some that I do want to comment on. I will make those entries later today. (or am I procrastinating?)

Classics and Chunkster Challenges

2007-02-15T08:31:00.000-05:00

I finished the last book in my list for the Classics Challenge. I can't believe that I had never read Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I saw three versions in the movies but I have never read the book. I have a friend from a reading list who has many different copies of the book and remembering that pushed me forward to finally read it. I enjoyed it very much despite the fact that I continually saw June Allyson as Jo and a blond Elizabeth Taylor as Amy. I will post later some of my favorite quotes and a brief review.

I also finished my February Chunkster book Native Son by Richard Wright. The review of that will take some thought. It is a disturbing book and it is as current today as when it was written.

Quickly, I will say both are well worth the time to read them.

Non-Fiction Five Challenge

2007-02-07T20:42:00.000-05:00

I can't rest. I have to have my challenges so I am signing on with the non-fiction challenge. Here are the books that I am going to read. I think I have a variety.

1. Writing a Woman's Life by Carolyn Heilbrun
2. Ava's Man by Rick Bragg
3. 13 Ways of Looking at a Novel by Jane Smiley
4. Traveling Light by Max Lucado
5. Brain Matters by Patricia Wolfe

I like the idea of including non-fiction in my monthly reads. Let's see if I can do it!

Challenge Books

2007-02-05T18:29:00.000-05:00

I am participating in several challenges and as a result over the past few days I have read two wonderful books.

I can't remember when I first read Willa Cather's O Pioneers, but I picked it for one of my Winter Classics. This is such a fine combination of a picture of prairie life and of a love story! Alexandra Bergson's family is from Sweden; they have settled in Nebraska. As the eldest and most business savy child, she inherits the family farm. She fights the land and her brothers to make the farm into a profitable business. This fight edures lost love, murder, greed, and failure to lead to victory.

This isn't a long story, but it is powerful. I love My Antonia but this is now my favorite.

The second book that I read this weekend was The Bright Forever by Lee Martin. In some ways it reminds me of Lovely Bones, but it is not a copy.

On July 5, 1972 after dinner, 9 year old Katie Mackey leaves home on her bicycle to return her library books. She is never seen again. The story is told alternating among family members and towns people who are most affected by the disappearance. There are elements of mystery and thriller as well as coming of age. This is one I highly recommend.

January Reads

2007-02-01T15:42:00.000-05:00

I didn't read much this month because I got stuck on one of my books. Ordinarily, I would have given up, but it was also a book my student teacher really wanted to teach. So here is my list:

1. House of Leaves by Mark Danielewski (my tbr challenge book for January) 6/10

2. The Awakening by Kate Chopin (Winter Classics book) 9/10

3. Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton (Winter Classic book) 9/10

4. Transfer of Power by Vince Flynn 8.5/10

5. Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (Winter Classic book) 5.5/10 YUCK

6. Book Thief by Marcus Zusak (Chunkster Challenge) 10/10 My favorite book this month.

7. All Over but the Shoutin' by Rick Bragg 9.5/10

I am currently reading *The Innocent Man* by John Grisham I am enjoying this true story.

Florida in January

2007-01-16T14:52:00.000-05:00

Jim and I flew to Jacksonville, Florida Friday night - unexpectedly - to see our daughter Lisa and her family. I was off Monday for Martin Luther King day. Lisa had been in a car accident and we wanted to make sure that she was well. She is in some pain from back, hip, and shoulder injuries but she is up and around. She is seeing a specialist today.

Once we realized that she was not hurt badly we decided to relax and enjoy the visit. Because she was sore, we didn't do anything but visit and that was just what the doctor ordered. The weather was gorgeous. It has been nice in Maryland all winter but this was glorious. 80 degrees on January 14 is a real treat for me.

Our flight home reminded us that the rest of the country isn't as lucky. The plane that was to take us to Baltimore was coming from Chicago and we were one hour delayed. I hope everyone in the midwest is safe and cozy. Some of that cold is coming into Maryland today. We have gone from the 60s to the 40s. I realize that this isn't "cold" but it isn't what we have gotten used to.

I feel like I have been away for quite some time. I have to get back to my posts and my reading.

Classics Challenge

2007-01-16T14:34:00.000-05:00

Rating: B+ (8.5/10)

I finished my first book for the Winter Classics Challenge. This was The Awakening by Kate Chopin. It is set in Louisiana at the turn of the 20th century. Kate Chopin was criticized for her feminist writings which were out of the ordinary in this time period. The Awakening was frequently banned for the "questionable standards" depicted in the book. (Oh My!)

At the start of the book, the protagonist, Edna Pontellier is vacationing on Grand Isle with her husband. While staying her the son of the propriotress acts as her companion and escort since her husband returns to New Orleans during the week to work. She soon realizes how limited her freedom and happiness are. Slowly Edna falls in love with Robert and she soon realizes that her husband means nothing to her. Throughout her summer she appreciates the freedom and romance that she has with Robert and she misses that in her marriage. Upon returning home, Edna exerts more independance. With nothing to call her own except a small cottage, Edna moves out of her house into her own home. Edna learns to be her own person, doing things for herself and not for others. She begins to cultivate her talents. Yearning for Robert, she eventually realizes that he won't allow himself to destroy her marriage. In the meantime she becomes involved with a rogue. As he moves into her life, she loses her joy. At the very last chapter of the story, Edna finds the real freedom she is looking for and swims into the Gulf to meet it.

I love the book. The language is formal and there are frequent French phrases some of which are difficult to understand even in context. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the story. I am glad I completed this challenge.

Thursday Thirteen

2007-01-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

Since I am most often preoccupied with books, I thought today I'd list the literary characters I'd like to have as friends.

1. Atticus Finch (To Kill A Mockingbird) He is such a sound person, a good father, and a concerned neighbor.

2. Scout Finch (To Kill A Mockingbird) I like her but maybe I wouldn't want her in my class.

3. Sydney Carton (Tale of Two Cities) What better friend could you have than to die for you?

4. Harry Potter (duh!) I'd like to use some of his magic gadgets and have him help me with obstinate students and colleagues.

5. Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby) He knows how to throw a good party

6. Melanie Wilkes (Gone With The Wind) I admire her loyalty, but I'd like to help her see Scarlett for what she is.

7. Rhett Butler (Gone With The Wind) Frankly, my dear.......

8. Miss Marple (Agatha Christie's detective) I love her little town; I'd love to live near her.

9. Elizabeth Bennett (Pride and Prejudice) An exciting woman who was well read and intelligent.

10. The Second Mrs. Dewinter (Rebecca) I think she needs someone to confide in.

11. Janie (Their Eyes Were Watching God) Janie was one strong woman and I would hope that would rub off on me.

12. Stephanie Plum's grandma (Janet Evanovich series) That grandma is hysterical. I'd go for a drink with her!

13. Maisie Dobbs (series) I'd love to solve cases with her.

Now, there are several characters I'd like to "smack."

TBR Challenge #1 House of Leaves

2007-01-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Rating: Ugh - D 6/10

House of Leaves combines two stories of two men who have gone beyond what is considered normal. On the surface it is the story of a young man who is obsessed with sex and drugs but not much else. Johnny Truant acquires an assortment of manuscript pages compiled by his neighbor who has died. The book combines the two stores that run simultaneously through footnotes, side notes, letters, and poems. One story follows Truant as he edits the found manuscript and the other is the story in the manuscript of a house come to life - larger on the inside than on the outside.

Barnes and Noble suggest that comparisons to the Blair Witch Project will occur.

This is not a book to read for a relaxing evening. It is a book that offers mind games and challenges. It is not a casual read.

I would not have read this without the urgings of my friend nor would I have finished it. Unless you like such teasers, I don't recommend it.

Happy New Year

2007-01-01T08:28:00.000-05:00

It is early on Monday morning. I love the quiet time before everyone else is awake. This is the perfect time to wish everyone a Happy 2007. I have been thinking of the upcoming year and in the vein of Simple Abundance, I won't think of resolutions but of aspirations for the future. That is less daunting and perhaps even less threatening. I have already begun reading for the new year. I think that shows my priorities, but now for the rest of my day. I don't have a traditional New Year's day menu so instead I think I'll fall back on an old reliable one. Combining the old with the new, I'll make my grandmother's vegetable soup (or rather more of a stew). The day is rainy with is rejuvinating but I would like snow. Perhaps not like the midwest is getting but a few inches. It has not been cold at all here. I want some cold temperatures!

However, I wish warmth and happiness to you all.

Chunkster Challenge

2006-12-30T08:23:00.000-05:00

I am adding three more titles to the three chunksters that I already have. I figure that since I have six months and I have an extensive list of books that I want to read this will be a good incentive!

So here are the three that I am adding:

4. David Copperfield (Barnes & Noble Classics Series) by Charles Dickens

5. The Magnificent Ambersons (Barnes & Noble Classics Series) by Booth Tarkington

6. Sacajawea byAnna Lee Waldo

If you notice, I have switched David Copperfield from the Classics challenge to the Chunkster challenge and I put Little Women (Barnes & Noble Classics Series) by Louisa May Alcott in its place.

Now I am organized. I am not anal about everything; but I am about my reading lists!

On the Road Again

2006-12-26T08:11:00.000-05:00

I may be taking a short break from blogging while I visit the grandkiddies in Virginia Beach. I leave today for the 4+ hour drive. I'll be day care for the rest of the week so Christina can go to work. I will of course spoil them rotten just in time for them to return to school! (Why would I do that? I know the feeling of facing kids after a vacation!!) So I am off to finish gathering my goodies. I have to make a final grocery store run so Jim doesn't have an excuse for eating at the diner every night and then I will leave. I hope to drop in; I will have computer access, but I will be busy upsetting the household too.

Merry Christmas

2006-12-25T06:30:00.000-05:00

I wish to all of you a wonderful Christmas and may each present come with an added bonus of peace and love.

Parable of the Sower

2006-12-23T16:24:00.000-05:00

Rating: B (8/10)

Science fiction is my least favorite genre. I am not a fan of Ray Bradbury or Frank Herbert. In fact there are really only two novels that are on my shelves that can be considered science fiction - that is until now.

I am fortunate to teach many "readers" and one of my real joys is when a student wants to share his or her reaction to outside reading. I have mixed feelings when the book being shared is unfamiliar to me. Initially, I feel discomfort when it is a novel or novelist new to me but quickly that changes to excitement in learning about a "new" author. That is how Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler came to me.

Parable of the Sower takes place in 2025 California. Crime is the norm and the "haves" live in walled communities taking their safety into their own hands. When Lauren Olamina's family is wiped out in a raid from the outside, she is left with an odd assortment of neighbors and drifters on the road to establish their own new society. At the heart of Lauren's new life is her new religion Earthseed - God is Change. The trek to their new life is terrifying and filled with pain for Lauren is an empath and feels everyone else's pain.

There is a sequel called Parable of the Talents and I will definitely read that to continue my journey with Lauren and her ratty band. Other works by Butler will have to come recommended because I am still not sure she will become one of my favorites. Although the story is good, it is still science fiction.

2006 G.I.F.T. Challenge (Response #3)

2006-12-23T09:49:00.000-05:00

I recently finished Barbara Robinson's The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and I enjoyed it as much this time as I did the first time I read it. I grew up as an active member of a church and transitioned into a youth leader. With that comes the responsibility for many church related presentations. The children and youth are the best for bringing home a message. I think the reason I love this book so much is that it is realistic and optimistic which are not mutually exclusive.

As soon as we can view our colleagues and neighbors as Heardmans in disguise, then can we get past hard feelings, fear, and hatred. That is the message I take from this little book and perhaps that is what makes this book more than just a book for the kids.

I am off now to put some final touches on my holidays. I need to get a few more little things to add some smiles to the day and I will be organizing my thoughts for "Response #4" for this challenge.

Writers' Winter Weekend

2006-12-18T10:54:00.000-05:00

I am so excited! I just booked reservations for Southern Living's 6th Annual Writers' Winter Weekend. This will be the sixth time Jim and I have attended. It is one of the most enjoyable weekend events in which we participate. I have seen many wonderful authors. Last year Billie Letts spoke. I have seen David Baldacci, Pat Cunningham Devoto, Sue Monk Kidd, and Nevada Barr (among others).

This year the speakers will be Rick Bragg, Sandra Brown, and Joshilyn Jackson. I am looking forward to them; I hope to read (or reread) some of their works before March 2. (In addition to all my challenges.)

Does anyone else attend this?

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

2006-12-15T15:11:00.000-05:00

B+ 8.5/10

It seems presumptuous of me to do a "review" of this book. I am including the publisher's information from Barnes and Noble's website. I think the reason I enjoyed the book is that it isn't just about adultery. It is about a strong woman who is willing to accept the consequences of her actions in a society teeming with hypocrites including Hester's partner in sin.

I read a scholarly review that said in today's society The Scarlet Letter isn't surprising to the readers. The audience goes into the work either knowing with whom Hester sinned or able to quickly figure in out based on contemporary fiction. In the time of its publication, however, the audience would not be able to figure out the father until well into the book.

Another article said that Hawthorne knew he had written a good romance when his wife wept as she read it.

Here is the blurb from Barnes and Noble:

When it first appeared in 1850, The Scarlet Letter enjoyed scandalous success. New England critics condemned its passionate subject matter. One critic complained that Nathaniel Hawthorne invested adultery with all the fascination of genius, and all the charms of a highly polished style. My preliminary chapter, wryly noted the author, has caused the greatest uproar that has happened here since witch-times. As she emerges from the prison of a Puritan New England town, Hester Prynne defies the dark gloom much as the rose blooms against the prison door. With her illegitimate baby, Pearl, clutched in her arms and the letter A—the mark of an adulteress—embroidered in scarlet thread on her breast, Hester holds her head high as she faces the malice and scorn of the townsfolk. Her powerful, bittersweet story is an American classic that continues to touch the hearts of modern readers with its timeless themes of guilt, passion and repentance.

Thursday Thirteen

2006-12-14T12:39:00.000-05:00

For my Thursday Thirteen I think I am going to list 13 Christmas songs that I love. I am including Carols and secular songs.

1. Joy to the World
2. Silent Night
3. Hark the Herald Angels Sing
4. O Come All Ye Faithful
5. The Messiah
6. Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy
7. It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas
8. Do You Hear What I Hear
9. O Holy Night
10. A Christmas Festival (Leroy Anderson)
11. Winter Wonderland
12. White Christmas
13. Away in a Manger

That isn't my order of preference because my preferences change by mood. My favorite Christmas CDs are my Manheim Steamroller collections. They cheer me up.

Nan's Rosemary Clooney CD is one I would like too.

Book Cards

2006-12-13T19:35:00.000-05:00

I redeemed some of my American Express award points and got a few Barnes and Noble gift cards. I couldn't resist using some of them for myself. I was having fun until I realized that the purpose of the 2007 Challenge is to get rid of the books on my tbr stacks. I guess it takes me a while to learn.

I did get the Intuitive Eating book. I wanted to see what that was about. I guess I am looking for a way to keep myself under control. I do try to lose weight; I just am not very good at it. (lol)

My Puritan Punishment would definitely be wearing a scarlet G! I am almost finished re-reading *The Scarlet Letter* and I am glad I am doing it. I remembered not liking it but this time around it has grabbed my attention. I can't imagine a society so rigid, or is it that every society is rigid in its own way? Be that as it may, Hawthorne has brought me into the world of Hester Prynne and I am living it with her.

I will write a review tomorrow or the next day when I am finished. Maintaining a blog can keep me from reading so I must be careful.

2006 G.I.F.T. Challenge (Response #2)

2006-12-12T10:49:00.000-05:00

Norman Vincent Peale's story "A Gift from the Heart" was new to me and very moving. I can't imagine what it would be like to be in a new country during Christmas without my family. It would be even worse to feel I couldn't participate in the gift exchange. This story was moving.

In a completely different vein but nonetheless moving is one of my all time favorite televisions specials. I absolutely love Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol. Of all the movie and tv versions of this story, Mr. Magoo's interpretation is my favorite especially because of the music included. This show hasn't been on tv for years so I went on an all out search for the DVD. At last I have found it!!!!!! I am so excited. This is the best Christmas Gift to myself! It is only one hour and very much abridged but worth the time spent.

Chunkster Challenge

2006-12-12T04:32:00.000-05:00

So far, I have three biggies that I will read for this challenge:

1. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

2. Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison

3. Native Son by Richard Wright

I have two other "Chunksters" in my tbr Challenge list and my Classics list but I won't count them.

I do think that "blogging" can be addicting but I do have some other obligations (like work) so I should go get ready for school. Maybe I'll look in the book room and see if there are any Chunksters that I haven't read.

Sunday Dinner

2006-12-10T17:05:00.000-05:00

Tonight we are having Les' parmesean pork chops with au gratin potatoes and Italian green beans. I hope mine turn out as good as hers looked! It has been a lazy Sunday afternoon.

I am reading *Scarlet Letter* and doing a few loads of laundry.

I have been making jewelry lately and I have a couple of projects underway for Christmas. I will try to take pictures and post them. Jim gave my digital camera to Jamie to take overseas this time so he bought me a new one for our anniversary. I am still not sure how to download pictures. When Jim gives me the crash course, I'll post more pictures.

The Redskins let me down today (as they have been doing of late). I guess I should be glad that my cable provider usually shows Baltimore games not Washington.

A Book Meme "borrowed" from Booklogged

2006-12-10T10:19:00.000-05:00

Meme Instructions : Look at the list of books below. Highlight in red the ones you’ve read, highlight in green the ones you might read, leave the ones you won’t read in black, italicize the ones on your book shelf, and place parentheses around the ones you’ve never even heard of.

The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown
The Cacther in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
The Hitchhhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas adams
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
The Time Traveler's Wife by audry Niffenegger
His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Girl in Hyacinth Blue by Susan Vreeland
Animal Farm by George Orwell
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
1984 by George Orwell
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaba by J.K. Rowling
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
Slaughterhouse 5 by Kurt Vonnegut
Angels and Demons by Dan Brown
Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
(Crytonomicon by Neal Stephenson)
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
(Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell)
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkein
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
(Good Omens by Terry Pratchett, Neil Gaiman )
Atonement by Ian McEwan
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zago
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
Dune by Frank Herbert
The History of Love by Nichole Krauss

Winter Classics Challenge

2006-12-09T21:59:00.000-05:00

I really need another challenge, but here is my classics list for January - February 2007. I am reading two classics now so I'll just keep it up into the new year.

1. Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

2. Awakening by Kate Chopin

3. Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton

4. Little Women (Barnes & Noble Classics Series) byLouisa May Alcott

5. O Pioneers! by Willa Cather

Christmas Stories

2006-12-09T10:26:00.000-05:00

I pulled out one of my favorite Christmas books; it is a collection of stories, poems, and songs. I love to leave this on my coffee table so I can grab it when I sit down to relax in the evening. It never fails to surprise me. I seem to always see something new. Last night I read "A Gift of the Heart" by Norman Vincet Peale. I guess it was pretty predictable as a Christmas story but nonetheless I was moved.
Ursula is a young Swiss girl who moves to New York City in order to perfect her English. She takes a job in the home of a well to do family. As Christmas approaches, one of her household tasks is to keep a log of cards and gifts the family receives. She records the date, the sender's name and address, and a brief description of the gift. As more and more gifts arrive, she realizes she is not able to provide a gift for this family that could compete with what they have already received. After thinking long and hard, she goes shopping on her day off which was Christmas eve. She goes to a big toy store on Fifth Avenue and buys some small toys and has them wrapped. Once out on the street she asks a policeman where poor people live. His answer is Harlem. This means nothing to her so she approaches a man getting into a cab and asks how to get to Harlem. Both he and the cab drive hesitate. Should this young woman go to Harlem alone? However, when she explains her wish, the man and the taxi driver offer to escourt her. Upon driving into Harlem, the three select an apartment with children in the front. The man won't allow Ursula to take the gifts in so he does this for her. She is joyous when she imagines the faces of these children.
The next day as her employers open their family gifts and present Ursula with many fine presants. She explains her gift to them. In their name she bought a few gifts for children in Harlem. They were astonished at her idea and were touched by her generosity. They all agreed hers was the best gift of all - a gift from her heart.
This is a true story. It happened in the 1950s to Norman Vincent Peale. Ursula worked for him.
I loved it. I could picture Fifth Avenue on Christmas Eve. For some reason, New York City seems appropriate for Christmas stories.

Excitement

2006-12-08T22:12:00.000-05:00

I just get so excited when I accept a new challenge and when I have a good book (or books) to read. I can't decide if I should sit in my easy chair by the window or if I should just stretch out on my couch. I am just so darn happy!

The List

2006-12-08T21:15:00.000-05:00

Here are my books for the 2007 tbr challenge:

1. House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski, Johnny Truant (Introduction)

2. The Bright Forever by Lee Martin

3. Trinity by Leon Uris

4. Atonement by Ian McEwan

5. Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler

6. Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers

7. The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

8. Caramelo by Sandra Cisneros

9. Ordinary Life: Stories by Elizabeth Berg

10. The Night Gardener by George P. Pelecanos

11. Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld

12. The Sportswriter by Richard Ford

2007 tbr challenge

2006-12-08T16:29:00.000-05:00

I have finally decided on my 12 books for this challenge. I will post my list along with some extra credit books that I want to read that don't quite fit the guidelines but ones that I have been meaning to get to! I am still in the "stumbling" stages of adding elements to the blog. I guess I will have to be content with a learn as I go process. So for now, I'll experiment with the best way to add my list of books. Who knows? It may change from day to day until I find a look that I am happy with.

Welcome!

2006-12-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

This is my first post in my new blog. This will be a window into my life. I will share book notes, music chatter, movie reviews, and other peeks into life in Westminster.

I have accepted the "tbr challenge" so I will post my choices for 2007 as soon as I can narrow them down. It seems bloggers like to throw down a good challenge. I'll have to see what other ones might be up my alley.

I hope you will join me for some good old fashioned chats.