Weejane re-attempts 75 in 2012 - Part 3

Hello! And welcome to my third thread!

Here's a picture of Hank:



I'll post one from Will's third birthday once I get them on the computer.

January:
1. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
2. The Family by Mario Puzo, completed by Carol Gino
3. The Twelve Caesars by Suetonius (audio)
4. Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick
5. Cannery Row by John Steinbeck
6. The Litigators by John Grisham (audio)

February:
7. Game Change by John Heilemann (audio)
8. A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin
9. Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith (audio)

March:
10. The Wild Things by Dave Eggers (audio)
11. Allah, Liberty and Love by Irshad Manji
12. Greetings from Jamaica. . . Wish You Were Queer by Mari San Giovanni

April:
13. Darth Plagueis by James Luceno (audio)
14. Camptown Ladies by Mari SanGiovanni

May:
15. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
16. Steinbrenner: The Last Lion of Baseball by Bill Madden
17. The Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan
18. The Serpent's Shadow by Rick Riordan

June:
19. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
20. The Baseball Codes by Jason Turbow (audio)
21. Hate Mail from Cheerleaders by Rick Reilly
22. Juiced by Jose Canseco
23. Fit to Serve by Ambassador James C. Hormel

July:
24. Sandy Koufax: A Lefty's Legacy by Jane Leavy (audio)
25. Mik Murdoch: Boy Superhero by Michell Plestad (ER book)
26. A Clash of Kings George R. R. Martin

August:
27. A Storm of Swords George R. R. Martin
28. Myth Weaver David J. Normoyle

September:
28.5. Quo Vadis by Henryk Sienkiewicz
29. Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion by Anthony Robles
30. Intangibles by Geoff Miller
31. The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

October:
32. Hadrian by Anthony Everitt
33. The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan
34. Some Enchanted Season by Patricia Burroughs
35. The Secret of the Fortune Wookie by Tom Angleberger

November:
36. Drift: The Unmooring of American Military Power by Rachel Maddow
37. The Oath by Jeffrey Toobin
38. The Spirit Archer by Mike Evers

December:
39. The Legend of League Park by Amy Stilgenbauer
40. The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
41. John Adams by David McCullough
42. Trading Manny by Jim Gullo

Hello! Congrats again. Looking forward to your new thread :)

Hello Kassilem! Thank you!

Congrats Brit on a beautiful new addition to your family! Hope you guys are all recovering well and getting some rest in between all the hugs and kisses!

Book #24: Sandy Koufax: A Lefty's Legacy by Jane Leavy (audio)

This was an excellent book. Although I was a huge baseball fan and historian when I was younger, I never knew much about Koufax. I knew he was great and that he was great for an incredibly short period of time. This book is told somewhat chronologically while the author describes Koufax pitching his perfect game. It was very interesting and the author did a good job. I really enjoyed how the author really explained the shift in American culture from the 1950's to the 1960's and compared that to the Dodgers moving from Brooklyn to L.A. I would highly recommend this book to any baseball fan.

Checking in, Brit! Great news about Hank. He's a cutie!

Valerie - Thank you! We're getting there! Just pretty tired. But that is to be expected!

Stasia!!!!!! So wonderful to "see" you! Thanks! We think he's pretty cute!

Congratulations, Brit ... what an adorable new addition to your family.

Oh sweet baby days! Happy new thread, Brit!!

Happy birthdays to Hank and Will!

Hi Brit- Love the new thread! Love the photo of Hank! He looks like a reader to me.

Could there be a better way of starting a new thread! Brit congratulations once more and blessings upon little Hank (and his brother of course) from Malaysia.

Hi there, Brit. Hank is adorable! :)

Caroline - Thank you!

Mamie - Thanks! It's so much fun having a baby around again!

Luxx - Thanks! I cannot believe that Will is 3!!

Mark - I definitely think Hank is a reader! He sits with me while I'm reading A Clash of Kings.

Paul - I really don't think there could be a better way!

Stephen - HI! He is quite cute!

Great picture of Hank! Such a cutie

Just checking in on the new thread, Brit. :)

Oh, what a darling boy! Happy birthday wishes to both of your little treasures, and best wishes to you and Whit as well!

I hope there will be more pictures in our future? :)

Oh my! I had no idea it had been THAT long since I was on here! I guess running around after my two boys is already taking its toll!

Let's see - I've also gone back to work, so that means I don't have as much free time either.

I'm still working my way through A Clash of Kings and it is awesome! I only wish I could lock myself up somewhere and finish it!

I'm listening to Quo Vadis at work which is good and generally holding my attention enough while I do some mindless work.

I'm also trying to get through Mik Murdoch - the ER book I received. Unfortunately, this book is just not holding my interest. I'm just not finding it a very interesting storyline. Since this is pitched as a young adult book, I really am wondering what young adult is going to find it interesting. I'm about half-way through and not sure I can keep going. So, friends, do I keep going or just write a review about how I couldn't finish it?

*****

Chelle - Thanks! We think so too!

Micky - HI!

Anne - Thanks!

Kath - Yes, there will be more pictures. We just need to get them off our camera!

So happy to hear from you Brit! I'm sure you must be crazy busy with the new guy and going back to work, but it's so great to hear from you when you get the chance. :)

I don't think they are obligated to finish the book. That in itself is the review. You didn't care for it enough to even finish it!

Valerie - It is busy! Even though it is just the summer. Thanks for your advice! I'll have to make my to your thread soon!

I just feels really good when you have a moment to stop by....hugs

Hi, great to see a Hank Header :)
I bet you are busy now, 2 boys, work, LT, reading. Phew.
*waits very patiently for photos of 3rd birthday*

Brit wishing you all a very good weekend and trust that the little fellows are not running you too ragged.

Hey Kath! I always like stopping by too!

Megan - Yes, Whit uploaded to the computer, so now I need to hunt down that html code to add them. . .

Paul - Thanks! It was a good weekend! I hope you had a good weekend and Monday!

Book #25 Mik Murdoch: Boy Superhero by Michell Plestad

A full review is available on the book's main page. The reader's digest version: Not good. Don't recommend.

(But yay! I'm at least a third of the way to 75! And it only took me 1/2 the freakin' year! :| ).

Book #26: A Clash of Kings by George R. R. Martin

This book on the other hand is fantastic! This series is very good and I'm so glad I'm getting into it! While it is maddening at times for Martin's propensity to kill off characters, it is so good!

One gets a waiver on 75 if a new child enters the family... no worries :)

I'm so glad that you're enjoying the Martin books! And it's good to see you here. I hope you and Whit are getting at least *some* sleep... how long until wee ones start sleeping through the night? I can't even remember, now...

Yay, I think you have a very valid, very cute reason not to reach 75, my friend! :)

Kath - Thanks for the pass! :)

Amber - I'm really enjoying the Martin books. I've started A Storm of Swords which my good friend said he wanted to give me the heads up about a couple things before I started, but I'm not very far into it. We are working on the sleep thing. I'm drinking half-caf coffee to help in the mornings.

Valerie - Thanks! How is your monkey? He has to be close to 2 now!

****

I've started A Storm of Swords - yay! I also started Seriously. . . I'm Kidding so we'll see which one I get through first. Ha!

In other news, I think I posted earlier somewhere that our kindle broke. Well, I had an insurance policy on it. The company told me they couldn't replace it, so I'm getting a check for almost $300!! I'm thinking that since Whit and I shared the one kindle before I will 2 now. But the question is, what should I get? I was thinking of getting the Kindle Fire and just a basic kindle. Thoughts, Friends?

A heads up? Oh, that's no fun. You should let yourself be shocked by what happens in Martin's books. At the end of the most recent one, I actually jumped out of my chair and yelled, "Oh dude, what the hell?!" Ha!

That's how I felt about the last chapter of the first one!

Yeah, he pretty much does that to you in all the books so far. I only have one favorite character left, and I'm worried about that one, too... Sigh.

Seriously. . . I'm Kidding is more like a conversation than a read. It will go quickly...

Glad to see you are enjoying the Martin books! I recently started A Game of Thrones and it's pretty decent so far

Hope things are going smoothly with having the wee little one home :)

Hi Brit! Belated congrats on little Hank! He's adorable!! Yay!!

In book news, I've watched the first season of Game of Thrones and am going to start the audio of the first book very soon.

Hello Friends!

Amber - I've gotten used to Martin's willful killing.

Kath - I hope so - but the problem is I'm just so sucked into A Storm of Swords!

Chelle - Things are going okay. . . (see below)

Kerri - Thanks! I have the first season from Netflix, but I have yet to watch it.

Well, my dear friends (or those of you who still visit this ghost town of a thread), this week has been difficult. Henry is doing fine. He got circumsized since I last was one here. We took him to the same pediatric urologist that Will went to. She did a good job - I guess. I mean how much can a dyke really comment on penis? Anyway, our pediatrician thought she did a good job when we were in for his 1 month check-up! He weighs 9 lbs 6 oz and is 23 inches long. Otherwise known as the size Will was when he was born.

Speaking of Will, he had a bad week. Things started out okay, but on Tuesday he got a nasty stomach bug. He vomited all over the back seat of my car. That was fun to clean up! :| So, he suffered through a stomach bug for a couple days which was accompanied with a high fever. Then he developed this nasty cough. We piggy-backed him with Henry's peds visit. Turns out he has an ear infection and bronchitis, on top of still battling this tummy bug. The doc gave him some antibiotics because the baby needs to be kept safe. Trying to give Will his first dose of that was one of the worst Mommy experiences I've had. And his fever is back. Ugh.

I'm hoping the antibiotics kick in over the weekend!

I think I wrote a couple weeks ago that our kindle broke, but was covered by a warranty. So we replaced it with a kindle fire! Whitney has pretty much taken it over so I haven't played around with it much. She has been reading the Gallagher Girls series by Ally Carter. I've wanted to read that series too, so it's nice that we have the e-books now!

Anyway, I guess my ramblings are done. I will go attempt to visit everyone's thread now. Even I don't leave a comment, I will do my best to lurk!

Good grief Brit! This has been a bad week for you. I know that I haven't seen a lot of posts
anyway.. but was hoping it was just you and Whit and Will all settling in with Henry and getting cozy.
I hope this all passes quickly and that no one else gets the bug.. Where on earth did Will pick it up do you think?

Hang in there sweetie.. it will be better soon :)

hugs

Hi Brit, what a joy your newest addition is. Sorry you've had such a rough week. Those stomach bugs can make everyone miserable. I hope no one else succumbs. Hugs to all of you, especially the recovering Will and Sweet Baby Hank!

Oh no! Poor Will and poor mommies! Sending healing thoughts Willward and patient thoughts Brit-and-Whit-ward.

My first Charlie-vomit experience was the night I found out my brother had died. Charlie wasn't ill, really; we think he just picked up on how upset I was and got overly upset himself. Sigh.

Kath - It was a bad week. . . and it was only about to get worse. . . (read below).

Donna - Henry is great! Stomach bugs are the worst!

Amber - I think those healing thoughts got held up somewhere. . . .

So, thank you Friends for all the well-wishes. But, as I mentioned, it really only got worse from there. Sunday morning Whit and I both woke up with the stomach bug, Will still had his nasty cough and a high fever. We called the pediatrician because after 3 doses of the antibiotic he should have felt better. The doc said he was worried Will had pneumonia and we had to take him to the ER for a chest x-ray. Yup. So, after spending a little time in the bathroom, and feeling slightly better than my wife, I piled Will into the car and called a neighbor to come with us. Long story short - chest x-rays were negative! Yay!

My mother-in-law then took Will for the rest of Sunday and most of Monday. While our primary care doc refused to prescribe Whit and I any anti-nausea meds, Whitney called the midwife and she did! I love midwives! Whitney took one of those and I hung onto to Hank for the rest of Sunday. Sunday evening Whit felt betterish and took Hank for the night. I then took some of the meds and conked out until Monday.

The ER doc said we needed to follow-up with the pediatrician on Monday, so that's what we did. Will's fever was gone by that point and he appeared to be back to normal. He was cleared for day care and the Mommies breathed a collective sigh of relief had having made it through a nasty week. . . . . but wait!

When I picked Will up from day care on Tuesday, one of the teachers said he had been acting funky all day. No fever, just not social and actually actively isolating himself from his friends. Very unlike my little big man. I thought that sounded weird, but chalked it up to his first time back at school in a week. Wednesday morning was rough, he was extremely weepy and clingy. I could hardly go anywhere without him attached to me. But, again, I thought it was about him being out of his routine for a week, so I dropped him off at Oak Lane and gave a heads up to his teacher.

Around 9:30 I got a call from day care. His teacher was very concerned because he was again isolating himself and just crying. He looked pale, but had no fever. Needless to say, his teacher and I were both baffled. I called the pediatrician and they said to bring him in. Whitney couldn't handle both Will and Hank at the pediatrician's so she dropped Henry off at my office. Turns out Will has a "raging" ear infection (pediatrician's words). Awesomesauce.

So, he is know on another round of antibiotics. He was acting extremely destructive all day and evening, so I called the pediatrician in the evening asking them to prescribe some numbing drops for his ear. You would have thought I was asking for the combination to unlock Fort Knox! The nurse practitioner who saw was very reluctant to give him that and I finally had to tell her that the only time I had seen my kid this out of sorts and in this much was when he was coming out of general anesthesia. She gave in. The "magical squirt squirt drops" (as Whit named them) worked like magic. Will woke up this morning back to his normal, happy, energetic early morning self! I really hope this spells the end of this particular episode (although Whit and I are convinced that we are headed back to A. I. DuPont for ear tubes 2.0).

It was exhausting just to read that..... I am so glad it's over. What is it about baby #2? Kim went through
something similar when Owen was newborn. . Both kids being sick .. and she had that issue with her incision, dealing with drains and so on.. terrible.

Glad that you guys made it through and hope it never ever happens again! Or not even anything close!
Poor little Will. Hopefully Henry stayed well?

What a cutie Hank is! Sorry to hear about your family's recent bout of illness! I hope everything gets back to " normal" quickly!

Good grief, Brit! What an ordeal!
Hope things are settling down and everyone is feeling better.
Having had many ear infections as a child, I can empathize with poor Will.
Why are some pediatricians so hard to work with??? It's like they think all mothers are hysterical females. :PPP

Kath - Yes, that was a rather exhaustive post. But there's more . . . . Henry is fine. He's actually great! He has started making these little cooing noises and smiling which just melts my heart!

Deb - Thanks! Yeah, about that "normal". . ..

Cee - Hello! I know! I really felt like telling that pediatrician (who is not our favorite in the practice) that maybe she would like to come over and deal with Will!

So, here's the latest update. I broke my pinky toe on my right foot. Normally I wouldn't think this was much of a problem, except that it was clearly displaced (pointing at about a 45 degree angle awake from foot) that I had to go to the ER. The displacement was so bad the doc isn't sure he fully set the bone and I have to see an orthopedist tomorrow - er - today. There is a chance I might need surgery to get pins placed. And since it is my right foot, I can't drive.

How did it happen you ask? Will, as you know from the above posts, has been having a rough go of life lately. He was playing in the entryway of our apartment and I thought he went out onto the track (the area right outside our apartment used to be the school's old track, he has a bunch of toys out there) and then started screaming. I thought he was on the track and couldn't get back in. I was in our living room which would necessitate two quick left hand turns to get out of. So, hearing my boy screaming, I flew out of the room (ok, I was running bc if I could actually fly this probably wouldn't have happened!) and I somehow clipped my toe on either the door jamb or corner. Awesome. I knew it was broken immediately by the way it looked.

Blah. The ER gave me tylenol with codeine, but that just kinda takes the edge off and doesn't do much else so I'vee been up most the night. No weight-baring = crutches. Mostly I just feel like a dumb-ass. . .

Oh my, Brit - you're having a most dreadful week! I hope it starts to improve quickly. Not fair. Hang in there!

Good goddess! How awful. First of all, having broken my own pinky toes on several occasions..
( I am quite clumsy and always hurting myself in some way ) I can't imagine how painful such a bad break is. #NoFun. Not being able to drive?!?!? Terrible. I am so sorry about all of this. Surely this has got to be the end of it? I hope that it is able to be fixed without surgery, or at least only something simple. Oh honey, I am so sorry.. I hope You can get some relief before the day is over. Enforced downtime can be great, but not when you have so much going on~

On the other hand... So glad to hear that Will is okay and that Henry is starting to make those sweet baby
noises. Good time.

Hang in there.. this has got to stop soon!

hugs

My goodness! I agree with Kath in post 44, just reading about what has been going on in your life is exhausting.

((Hugs)) to Brit - hang in there!

Ah, geeze and ouch! So much pain and inconvenience from such a little toe :PPPP
Maybe this will slow things down a bit?
Hugs and healing energy!

*Hugs* to you Brit! That is just too much drama for one family to handle all at once. Hopefully the bouts of illnesses and personal injuries are done with and you guys can finally settle down as a family of four!

Brit you are all very much in the wars at the moment. Trust Will is on the mend and that Hank has no such problems. Hope your toe has stopped throbbing - my eyes were watering just reading your news.

Wishing you a happy, healthy and unbroken week!

hugs

Kerri - While the weekend was mainly a blur, this week is looking up. Except that I can't workout or drive. I'm hoping I don't start gaining some of the weight I've lost. . .

Kath - Thanks for the hugs! They are much appreciated! *BIG hug back*

Stephen - Yup, I was exhausted after writing that. In other news, I'm insanely excited about AC 3. Like I get giddy and want to squeal like a pre-teen girl - it's pathetic, but true.

Stasia - So good to see you around!! Thanks for the hugs! You can never too many of those, as far as I'm concerned. *hugs back!*

Cee - Indeed, things have slowed down considerably for me. The silver lining is that I'm really plowing through A Storm of Swords. Now, I just need to find the time to read and review two my ER/LT Giveaway books. . . I think the healing energy is working! I'll find out tomorrow when I follow-up with the orthopedist.

Valerie - *hugs back!* It was a lot to handle, but we're good jugglers down here!

Paul - Will is getting better, now he has to get used to going back to day care after being home sick for so long. He's getting there, but every morning I have to remind how much fun he has there. Hank is growing like a weed! Of course, that was my theory once he popped out so tiny. I figured he would be tiny to start and then grow like a weed to catch up to how big his brother was. Seems like that has happened! The sharp pain of the toe has stopped, but alas the throbbing and radiating pain continues. Such is the feeling of bones healing. . .

Kath - Thanks! *hugs hugs hugs*

*****

Okay Friends, I need to get ready for work now and get my little big man ready for day care, otherwise I would write more. Thank you all for the good thoughts! As I said above, the good news is that I'm thoroughly engrossed in A Storm of Swords. So good!

As an aside - anyone heard anything about Hope Solo's new book?

Oh. My. You are all having a rough go of it lately (well, I guess Hank is doing ok, right?). I hope you've seen the worst of it.

Oh Brit, what a time you have had! I am so sorry. Hope Will is on the mend and you, too -- it seems that your family has had its share, and you deserve smooth sailing for awhile. Take care!

Saw the pic... LOL'ed Save it.. trust me!

Hope things are getting better day by day... you sure deserve a break, all of you!

Brit: I'm the same way about God of War: Ascension. Oh my god I want it RIGHT NOW! I also really really really want to play Darksiders II, which I believe is out today, but I'll have to wait a year or so until it drops to $9 used on Amazon before I can buy it. Or get a job. The latter seems increasingly impossible though.

Great Odin's Raven, Brit! You and Whit are strong, strong women. And it can only get better from here, no? I'm glad to hear Will is on the mend - ear infections are one of my big worries with Charlie, but, *knock on wood, please please don't let me be jinxing it* he hasn't had one yet... Sending some toe-healing vibes your way...

Oh my, things sound rough at your house. How on earth does one take care of two wee ones while on crutches? I hope you heal quickly and that this is the last of your family's health woes.

Luxx - Yes, Henry is doing just fine! Thank the gods!

Anne - We're getting there - as long as I keep Will from only stepping on my foot once a day! :)

Kath - Things are slowly looking up. . . slowly. I'm just bummed that I can't workout! It's driving me nutst that it's such a nice cool day and I cannot go for a run!

Stephen - LOL! Darksiders II did just come out! That latter will happen - just keeping thinking about it. Will it into existence!! :)

Amber - Well, we are Mt. Holyoke women! :) I cannot believe Charlie is 4 (almost 5?) and hasn't had one! You are so super lucky! He just finished (another) round of anti-biotics and has a follow-up with the pediatrician on Tuesday. We will be talking about (another) referral to an ENT. . . (sigh).

Donna - Yeah, if I were you, I would stay away from our house for the rest of the month! ;) We're getting better though.

*****

WARNING - POTENTIAL SPOILERS, IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THE SONG OF ICE AND FIRE SERIES, BE WARNED

Okay, so I'm about 10 chapters away from the end of A Storm of Swords and I'm beginning if any of the way through A Storm of Swords and I'm beginning to wonder - does nothing good EVER happen in this book? Even when there is a glimmer of hope or some sense of retribution, something terrible always comes with it. Does George Martin even want me to continue to the 4th book??

If anyone has read this series and can let me know what you think, I would really appreciate it!

Okay - so I talked with my good buddy who has also read George R. R. Martin's series and he assured me it is worth sticking out. I will admit that Martin is a brilliant writer.

Oh, do stick it out with the Martin books - yes, they're bleak, but they're so wonderfully imaginative and well-written.

Amber - True true!

Book #27 A Storm of Swords by George R. R. Martin

Book 3 in the Song of Ice and Fire series was very good, but very depressing. I am really enjoying this series, but would like there to be some good. Anyway, I"m taking a break from the series to read a couple ER books before getting to the 4th book.

Hello Again Friends,

Well, my wife and I received some rather unsettling, if not bad news on Friday. We will find out more on Tuesday. I was hoping that things would start looking up, but I guess I will a while more. In the meantime, I will try to sink myself into taking over the world (via Civilization 5) and reading my books (Quo Vadis on audio, Myth Weaver on kindle).

That doesn't sound good!

Hope things are okay, Brit.

Thinking of you and Whit and the wee ones - hoping for good things to come...

Sending much positive energy your way, and hoping things look better tomorrow than they did on friday..
IT can happen, you know. Unsettling things have been told to folks plenty of times... then turned out to be much better than anyone has expected .. I am hoping for this for you and sending love to your little family and hugs to all ..

Kath - You are right. Things are looking better. Still a bit stressful, but better. I will update everyone soon.

In the meantime, I finished:

Book #28: Myth Weaver by David J. Normoyle

I received this book as a member giveaway book and, unfortunately, was disappointed. It sounded full of adventure and excitement. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it was not that. The story takes place from Jagger's perspective. A young man who is painfully shy and socially awkward. He is trying desperately to find his place at university and in his spare time visualizes a fight taking place between the Greek and Norse gods. Jagger decides to help settle the fight by judging each side on their respective myths. From here on out, the author just recites famous myths while interspersing Jagger's "real whirl" life. This book was mainly just a retelling of common myths from Greek and Norse culture without much of a separate story for Jagger that grabbed and held my attention.

(((((((((((((Brit))))))))))))

Glad to hear it... and will wait patiently...

Book #29: Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion by Anthony Robles

This was an Early Review book that I received earlier this week and immediately started reading because I was so drawn this young man's story. This is a memoir/inspirational book written by Anthony Robles the 2011 NCAA Champion wrestler from Arizona State University in the 125-lb weight class. It was a phenomenal book!

The beginning was a bit rocky because I was turned off that he only referred to his mother by her first name, but that changed. The book is about Anthony finding his place as a wrestler and allowing nothing (including being born without his right leg) stop him from being the best. It was incredibly inspirational and well-written. What I particularly enjoyed was how honest Robles was throughout the book. When describing the warm-up to his 2011 NCAA finals match, he very clearly said that he was not going to let a true-sophomore (at the time, Robles was a fifth-year senior) play mind games with him. But he does admit that perhaps the sophomore's plan worked a little. That is just a slice of this young man's honesty. Despite his ferociousness and confidence, he is never arrogant. Instead he is humble, gracious and honesty throughout the book in describing his experiences and his reactions.

It was such a wonderful book! I am recommending it to the wrestling coach at our school as well as the athletic director. I would love hear him speak!

I forgot to add book 28 1/2. I was listening to Quo Vadis via audible.com. It was simply not holding my attention so I gave up at about the halfway point.

Book #30. Intangibles by Geoff Miller

Another ER book I received and after the first couple books bring duds, this was the second good one in a row!

The book is written by a guy who has been the mental coach for several major league baseball teams. He is a life long lover of baseball and finds a way, with the help of an influential professor, to work his way into the game as a mental coach. Miller is very good at what he does. While his strategies are directed at high-level baseball players, or players who have dreams of a career in the sport, many of his lessons are easily tranferrable to life.

I really connected with the first half of the book and took many notes that I hope to use in my own career as a high coach for several different sports. Miller's writing was engaging and his anecdotes are perfect. He is able to bring many amorphous ideas and make them more tangible - so to speak.

The second half of the book I did not find as engaging, but that is not Miller's fault. His writing remained clear and engaging. The second half is just aimed at those directly involved or more involved with the game of baseball.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking at becoming a better leader, and especially those people involved in helping develop high-level ball players.

Sorry to hear of your broken toe! What a hassle! Once it is put into place, I suspect it will not be so painful? I fractured my left wrist and my right foot all at once nearly three years ago. Man, that was a bummer! I had cast on my left arm and a bootcast on my right foot, which left me entirely out of business!Thankfully my kids were all grown up and my husband took a week off work until I could hobble around okay. We do have a small dog though and while my mom came over once a day to take her for a walk, the rest of the time I had to hobble around on a short walk with the dog each day as she will not use our back yard.

Brit - I hope your toe is on the mend and that you are all getting adjusted to little Hank cutting a swathe through your lives.
Have a lovely weekend dear lady.

Hope you and the family are doing well, Brit!!

Hello Friends,

I know I have been MIA for a while. Things in our house have not been so great.

Four weeks ago, Henry was diagnosed with the birth defect craniosynostosis. Basically, two of his skull plates are fused together which are not allowing the right side of his to grow normally. There have been many ups and downs. The good news it is fixable and he will be fine. He is having surgery next Wednesday. There were two types of procedures, we are going with the newer and less invasive procedure. It was pioneered about 12 years by some docs in Texas.

Basically, the doc will make a one inch incision on Henry's head and then re-create the suture (space between plates) on my son's skull. He will be in the hospital for a few days. And then will have to wear a helmet for 12-18 months.

Anyway, needless to say, this has been exhausting and difficult. I'm sorry I've been so MIA. I really miss being on here on seeing what you all are reading. Usually, I just kinda come home and collapse in a tired heap.

I'm currently re-reading The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan in anticipation for the release of The Mark of Athena in a few weeks. I'm also listening to Hadrian which I am really enjoying.

It is so good to see you here... I'm glad that you let us al know about little Henry's temporary, but scary issue. Now we can all get busy sending healing energy and lots of all sorts of positive mojo your way.. The more the better when it comes to positive energy, you know?

Hang in there Brit, dear and let us know how things are going, when you can. I'm glad to hear that there is a procedure that is less invasive. The helmut will no doubt be a big old pain, but look at it as a fashion statement :) They are very lightweight, and they don't look uncomfortable at all..

You will all be just fine, and in a few months you will be posting thos Henry crawling after his big brother pics that we are all looking forward to seeing. I do love to see pics of the wee ones :)

Huge hugs to all of you .. hang in there and remember to breathe.. all will be well.

Brit - hugs and prayers to you, Whit and especially little Henry. x

Brit - So sorry for all that you are going through, but so thankful that young Henry will be fine. Surgery on your little one is scary, and my thoughts and positive wishes and mojo will all be with you. Please take care and hang in there - we'll be here for you.

*Hugs* to you and the family, Brit. I know it must feel so overwhelming on some days. I'm sending you lots of positive energy vibes as you guys work through this. Will be thinking of you guys and praying that the procedure is smooth and uncomplicated.

Oh, my, I'm so sorry for Henry's troubles, but so glad there's a treatment! Please don't feel bad about being MIA - you've got reason. And let us know how things go!

*Nods head in agreement with Jim*

I've been thinking about you and your family a lot lately, and I'll certainly still be doing so, and sending all kinds of healthy, happy, healing thoughts your way, too, especially on Wednesday.

Thinking of you and Henry, Brit! Hang in there.

Hello Friends,

Thank you for all thoughts and well wishes. Here is an update that we sent out to our family and friends this evening:

Good Evening Family,

I apologize for the delay in sending this update. First, thank you for all the support you have been sending through e-mails and phone calls. I'm sorry if we haven't responded, it has been hectic with Henry and of course the ever-energetic Will.

Whitney and I decided to go with the minimally invasive procedure. The procedure will be done Wednesday, most likely in the morning because they take the youngest kids first. It is an in-patient procedure, so Henry will be staying in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at A. I. duPont. Whitney will be staying with him. Will and I expect them home by the weekend.

While the prognosis is great and Henry is fully expected to recover, it is still scary to think about our baby's head being opened up and skull cut into.

Thank you again for all the support and prayers.

We love you all. Updates will be sent following the surgery.

Love,
Whitney, Brit, Will and Henry

Lovely message Brit - love and prayers to all of you at this difficult time - God speed to little Henry to come out of this trial and make a full recovery.

Good, strong, loving support from faily and friends. That is a goodness. Waiting is hard. Being separated at a difficult time is hard. One week from today, the hard part will be well behind you, and healing underway. The good thoughts and energy will keep coming...hang onto it. We will all be waiting for the next update...it will be good. That boy is strong like his moms...hugs.

Much much love and luck tomorrow. I am sure everything will be just fine, but I'll be thinking of you all just the same.

Oh, Brit, I will be thinking about you tomorrow. I'm so glad to know the prognosis is good, and that this can be repaired, but you're right: this is serious stuff for your little one, and I would be scared just as you are. Sending good, good thoughts for your family and for little Henry!

Praying for you, Whitney, Will, and Henry, Brit!

Adding my nota bene that I'll be thinking of you and your family tomorrow!

Sending you and the family my love and support as well as positive vibes as you go ahead with the procedure on Wednesday!

Oh my goodness!
Wednesday has been and is nearly gone here, but not for you yet. I hope it all goes well, and you are able to get some relief from worry. Poor you guys, it must be terribly worrying.
Ill keep looking for updates.

((((((YOU ALL)))))

*still checking*

*checking with Megan*

Brit posted on FB. Surgery went fine and they took Little Henry home today... I am hoping she won't mind my sharing that...

That's great news! Hopefully the family is getting some much needed rest at home!

>98 oh good, thanks Kath. Im sure she wouldnt mind.

Dearest LT Friends,

Thank you so much for all your support and prayers. I truly they helped. As kath mentioned, Henry did great! He (and Whitney) came home last Thursday. The swelling is down dramatically. Today, he went and got a cast of his head made. From the cast, they will make the helmet which we will pick up on next Monday. Things with him are going well. Whitney is having some trouble which adds another layer of stress, but we are working through it.

Today was a long day and I was starting to be lulled to sleep by Monday Night Football until that crazy finish that gave the Hawks the win. Now, I'm just wired . . . oh well.

Book No. 31 The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

This book came about about a year ago and is Riordan's second book in his Heroes of Olympus series. This was a re-read so I won't say much. I really enjoyed it and am really glad that I re-read it since the third book The Mark of Athena comes out in a week!

I'm still listening to the Hadrian biography by Anthony Everitt. I just need to decide what to read while I await the arrival of The Mark of Athena. I guess I should say that I'm hoping I will get The Mark of Athena for my birthday which is coming up.

Guess I better try to get some sleep. . . .

Hello! Good to hear that Henry is a trooper. Poor little man, he must have you very worried at times. I suppose his helmet is a soft one? He is so young, that he will barely notice it, Im sure.
I hope Whitney's troubles come good too.

Brit - very relieving to see the little fellow come through with flying colours but sorry to see that Whit is instead now having issues - hope things turn around for the better for all of you in the blinking of an eye.

So glad to hear that things went well for Henry! Still sending healthy thoughts your way...

It would be surprising if whit were not having some trouble. She still hasn't gotten her hormones back in order after the birth ( hormones can be the devil ) and she had this laid on her. But that too, will pass. I'm
Happy to know that the swelling is down and that you will move on to the next step. The whole Helmet thing will suck, I'm sure, but it is temporary and will help to keep him safe. Hang in there, Henry is indeed a trooper, but so are you! Glad to hear an update :) You and your family have been much on my mind..

I'm sending healing thoughts your way. And, Happy Almost birthday...Four more days!!!!

psst, not a secret, but something to be elaborately celebrated.

Our dear Friend will have a birthday tomorrow!!!!!

Hugs and happiness to you Brit!

Megan - Actually it is a hard plastic helmet, but he won't notice regardless. The plastic is pretty thin. Thank you for your sweet thoughts!

Paul - Thank you!

Amber - Thanks! I swear one day we will do some Latin-learning together!

Kath - Thank you for all your support!

Linda - Thank you! I had a pretty good birthday!

Hello Friends!

So, while waiting for The Mark of Athena which my mother-in-law got me for my birthday, I started The Art of Fielding. I'm not very far into the book (10% on the kindle), I'm hoping it does pick up some. I also purchased The Oath by Jeffrey Toobin, which the geek in me is super-duper excited about! Anyway, I will probably put down The Art of Fielding on Tuesday when I pick up The Mark of Athena. I also need to back to the Song of Ice and Fire series. . . . so many books, so little time. . . .

So little time for sure... I saw the pic of Will on fb.. he is looking quite the young gentleman these days.
I am sure Henry is doing well.. I sure would like to see a big brother little brother pic sometime soon..
( Why hint when one can just ask?) Yoour family is often on my mind and I am still sending some energy your way.. I am so happy for you, that things are getting back h( hopefully) to Normal and that Whit is feeling better now?

Hugs to all

I'm so glad that the surgery for little Hank is behind you and that all went well, Brit. Take care, all of you. And happy birthday to you, Brit!

Aw, I missed your birthday. Dag! Hope it was an amazing day!

And I'm here ready for Latin whenever you are - I'm happy to wait. :)

Sorry to hear about Hank needing that surgery but I'm so glad he got through it fine! Sending you good thoughts for life slowing down to a dull roar!

Oh, I missed it as well! Happy Belated Birthday to you Brit! Hope you and the family are doing well post-surgery!

Kath - Yes, I need to get some pictures of the boys - together - up soon. Whitney is slowly getting better. She is going on some low-dose meds which I hope will help because it seems no matter what I do or say these days she is cranky and upset with me.

Deb - Thanks! Hank is doing fantastically!

Amber - No worries about missing a birthday. Some day we will work on Latin. I just finished Hadrian by Anthony Everitt and it made me think of you. I loved the book. If you haven't read it yet, I would highly recommend it.

Chelle - Thanks! The slowness will come. I am on duty (again) this weekend, but after that, hopefully I can start having some time.

Valerie - No worries! We are all fine - well, Whitney is still dealing with her stuff, which means it is effecting me - but we'll get there. :)

***

Book #32: Hadrian by Anthony Everitt

Everitt is probably one of the preeminent scholars on Ancient Rome right now. He has written biographies of both Cicero and Octavian Augustus, both of which I highly enjoyed so there was no question that I was going to pick up this book. Well, okay, I listened to it. It was excellent. If you are not a fan of Ancient Rome, I think you would still enjoy it, though maybe not quite as much. He is excellent at describing events and takes into account many differing viewpoints of other scholar, historians and differing sources. The way Everitt can mould the history into such a wonderful narrative is amazing.

I put down The Art of Fielding as I am now about 3/4 of the way through The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan. If you are a fan of Riordan's works, I dare say he has outdone himself again this time. It seems that every book from his Heroes of Olympus series gets better and better. Although I am not finished with The Mark of Athena just yet, I cannot believe I am going to have a wait an entire year before the next book in the series!

I also started John Adams by David McCullough as my current audio book. I started this book many years ago, and then had to put it down. I think either my undergrad thesis or law school got in the way. Anyway, I enjoy McCullough's writing and historical insights, so I am sure I will enjoy this book.

That is all for now friends, I am sorry I am so MIA. But please know that I lurk when I can and greatly enjoy you all and LT.

I have Everitt's Cicero biography on my shelves and I really want to get to it someday - the Hadrian sounds good, too. He's not a preeminent Classics or History scholar; in fact, he only has a batchelor's degree in Classics. He's an art & culture prof (or some such combination) who has always been fascinated with ancient Rome and is good at writing biographies - his stuff doesn't really put forth any new theories at all.

So glad to see you popping in.. I miss seeing you here...
I'm glad to hear that Henry is doing well and I hope that everyone feels great about everything soon!
And wishing you good books....
:)

Glad to see the mini update, Brit! Life adjusting to a new addition, dealing with all the wonderful aspects of motherhood and a baby are joys, but is can also be energy sapping. Thinking of you and great to see you still have some precious time to read. Take care!

Hi Brit! I just got caught up here. So sorry to hear of Hank's medical issue, but glad to hear he's doing well. Take care!

Amber - Touche - clearly I was going off something not-fact checked. . . :| Anyway, he is a very good writer at the very least and I greatly enjoy his books.

Kath - Hello! I know. I miss being here. I'm hoping that I can get on more regularly. I'm going to make it a strong commitment. Whitney is doing much better, thanks to some modern medicine. Nothing long-term, just to help her out in the short term.

Valerie - Hello! Yes, babies are energy-sapping, but in a good way. Then again - so are 3 year olds!!!!

Kerri - Thanks! He's doing great!

*****

Book #33: The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

This was a fabulous addition to the Heroes of Olympus series. I finished it on Friday on the bus to our last soccer game (thank the goddess that soccer is over!). It was fantastic. I really delayed finishing it because I just didn't want to end. I don't know how I'm going to wait a whole freakin' year for the next installment! I won't summarize the book here because I don't want to give away any spoilers. I loved the gods and goddesses in this book and the way they were represented. Riordan did a fabulous job - again. But oh how I hate to wait!

Not sure which reading-book I will pick up. I received Some Enchanted Season as an ER book, and I'm wondering why I even requested it. I'm not very far into it, but I just don't think it will be my cup o' tea. Still working on John Adams and am wondering if I could run while listening to it. (Yes, I've picked up running and am even contemplating signing up for a 5K). Hmmmm. . . . maybe I will test my theory today. . . .

Well, I also have Rachel Maddow's book, Drift, and Jeffery Toobin's new book, and many many many others. . . .

Good Morning Friends!

Well, I've already failed in my attempt to get on here more often! Oh well. I can keep trying.

Book #34: Some Enchanted Season by Patricia Burroughs

This book seemed like a light fun read, but I had trouble getting into it. I found that the opening scene was a bit unbelievable and could not really get past that. In the end, I just don't think this book was for me - through no fault of the author

I think I'm going to pack The Maze Runner and Drift for my two paper books for my trip to Seattle. I still have John Adams on audio and countless other e-books on both the iPad and Kindle. I just hope that I can get some real reading done! :)

Whitney is doing great! I am okay. I am very worried about this impending trip to Seattle for my sister's wedding. Travelling with both boys seems a bit daunting right now, but I think it's just one of those things that you have to dive into! We are only bringing the iPad with us (and the kindle fire) so catching up here might be a bit difficult. I wish LT would come out with an app!

Happy Friday Friends!

You two are great moms.. and strong women... and all will be well..
I am so happy to see a post..and know that all is well with your family :)
When do you leave? Safe and smooth travel mojo headed your way...
have fun! Take pictures :)

hugs

Wishing you safe and trouble-free travels with the boys!

I'm with you on that LT app, too.

Kath. - Thanks for the vote of confidence. All went well and we are glad to be so far away from the hurricane!

Amber - thanks! I think we will have a good time. We already had an excellent morning at the zoo.

Book #35: The Secret of the Fortune Wookie by Tom Angleberger

I was looking forward to reading this book and discovered that the school library had it right before we left. It was a cute continuation of this ya series. I was able to read it on the first leg of our trip while entertaining Will. But the quickness with which I read it should not dissuade anyone from wading into this series.

I am now about 50 pages into Rachel Maddow's book and thoroughly enjoying it!

Glad to see you popping in every so often, Brit! You and Whit are amazing with your boys. They are very lucky to have 2 moms that love them so much. :)

Have a great and hopefully not too stressful trip to Seattle.

Hi,
I had been wondering how you were getting on. Glad to hear you are all coping so well. If my childrens babyhood is anything to go by, it is the most testing time in a relationship. Sleep deprivation, anxiety over babies wellbeing, complete and utter busyness, and no time to yourself....it all adds up to a crazy situation!

And I think you are right about just chucking yourself in the deep end with regard to family trips. Sometiimes they go swimmingly, and other times not so well....but you never regret going. I reckon :)

Oh, I agree about babyhood being the most stressful time in a relationship. In 8 years of marriage, Tomm and I have never had an actual shouting fight, but we certainly got snarky with each other during those sleep-deprived first months with Charlie...
Hoping your trip is going beautifully, and hoping you come home to zero storm damage!

Hello Valerie! It is nice to be on every now and then - although I admit that lately I have really wanting to get on more often! I'm going to try to make it a serious commitment. Thank you for your kind words! Our trip to Seattle was pretty good.

Megan - Hello! Yes, lots of sleep deprivation this week! On top of the switch between daylight savings time and standard time, last Sunday we had to contend with jet lag. And neither boy slept very well this week. Ugh! Super-tired Mommies this week! You're right, I did not regret going. Although my sister was difficult to deal with (more than I thought was necessary for a bride!). The best part though is that her last name is now legally and officially Bossi! LOL!

Amber - No storm-damage! Thank goodness! Despite the lack of sleep, Whitney and I have handled this week pretty well. It was her first week back at work, so getting everybody up, fed, dressed and out the door as close to eight as possible was tough!

Book #36 Drift: The Unmooring of American Military Power by Rachel Maddow

This was a phenomenal book! While Maddow is a liberal, this was not a book for just those bleeding hearts. I think anyone of any political persuasion would find this book fascinating. Maddow does a fantastic job of describing how the military-industrial complex has spun America out of control. While I greatly enjoy Maddow's show, this book really gave her a new depth. She was able to take a very dry topic and make it incredibly readable and interesting in a way that only Maddow can.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning how America's defense budgets have exponentially grown out of control or how the military is able to dominate the overall budget.

Now, I'm stilling listening to John Adams, but other than that I'm not sure what book to read next. I'm certainly feeling a non-fiction kick, but don't want to start a non-fiction book then get bored and need something else . . . . hmmm. . . . I have a coaching book I can read. I have Jeffrey Toobin's new book The Oath, oh who am I kidding? So many books! So little time!

Thoughts my friends?

Also, I will go searching for it, but is there a secret santa swap this year?

Trust that you are having a wonderful weekend Brit and I see it is sufficiently stress free to allow you some LT time.
Amber - SWMBO and I will actually comment on the rare occasions when we get through a day WITHOUT a stand-up fight!

So glad you managed to visit :)
Hope the getting out the door gets easier soon !
hugs

Bossi! What a fantastic surname!
eta: me and my lovely other are not fighters, we have discussions that I call fights, but he defines them as walks in the park compared to actual fights hes had with old g/fs

Paul - Yes, I am trying hard to be more present here. We'll see. . . . :)

Kath - Getting out the door is much easier this week since Whitney and I laid out a timeline. It helps bring order. Now, if only I could remember to either (a) start the coffee in the morning or (b) set-up the coffee to start on the timer the night before, I'd be all good!

Megan - I know!! I love it!

***

Books update: Okay, so I received a slew of magazines in the mail today, so I will be flipping through those. But I started The Oath last night and after the prologue, am already hooked. I'm about half-way through my listen of John Adams. It's just so good! McCullough is just such an engaging writer. It's also neat to be playing Assassin's Creed 3 part of which is set in colonial America.

Oh, I'm glad you're enjoying the McCullough - I *loved* it, and in fact I can't htink of anyone I know who has read it and not loved it. McCullough is a talented guy, no doubt.

Tomm is so so excited to get his hands on AC3...

I know nothing about games... but I know this, games for you means life is falling back into normalcy and that is only good. Nothing much going on here.. but I will say that now that I am working again,( and only part time).. I am again left in a state of wonder how young families do it with both moms ( etc ) working. It
seems impossible. Glad you two are conquering that mountain :)

Amber - Yes! I've contemplated listening to it while I run/bike. Tomm will *love* it! There is a good plot twist early on too.

Kath - Indeed, I think normalcy is returning. Slowly, but surely. I'm not sure how we are doing it either, but we are just taking one day at a time!

Well, I'm on duty tonight and what a night so far! Whitney had to go to the ER with a student who suffered a seizure. Then, that girl's room underwent a room search. We had to get a kid to sit in our apartment while Whit is gone and I'm on the floor. Ah, the night before vacation (for the kids) - also known as "The Night The Shit Always Hits the Fan!"

LOL glad you had it under control... and now a break from the kids? Do they all go home?

Oh yes! They ALL went home!! Hooray! Now the school is nice and quiet! It's also nice because I can let Will take his toys down to main hall and run around instead of going outside.

Last night Whitney and I saw "Lincoln." I was very pleasantly surprised. Despite all the hype for this movie, I was fairly skeptical. But I was impressed in the very first minutes. I would definitely recommend this film to anyone. It does an excellent job of showing that passing laws is messy and not always perfect. (Ok - never perfect!)

I hope everyone has a good weekend! I've already been up for 2 1/2 hours thanks to my wonderful 3 year old!

I really want to see Lincoln. To be honest, I want to see it as much for Sally Field and any other reason...
I love her! Glad you liked it, I will try harder to see it...

Sally Field was AMAZING as Mary Todd!! The whole case was amazing. If we lived closer together, I would set-up a movie date for us ASAP!

Okay, I'm about a third of the way through The Oath. It is very good and compelling so far. I think either liberal or conservatives will enjoy it. Although, as I lean a bit more to the left, parts of it I find maddening!

A movie date would be fantastic! :) Instead, I will think of you when I see it, okay?

I really look forward to seeing her.. I admire her a great deal for many reasons.

Without fail, I think kids have a radar when they know we are in a rush to go somewhere or be somewhere and that is when they decide it's time to do their business, or put all the stuffies to sleep, or rearrange all the cars in a line, or gather all the lint off the floor. Oh wait, that might just be my little guy. In our house we always arrive anywhere on Caleb's time. ;)

Sally Field as Mary Todd?! That sounds amazing.

PS: I keep seeing on Facebook posts that say that you've played Assassin's Creed III in the last 24 hours, and every time my first thought is, "She played Assassin's Creed *for* 24 hours?" Ha! I remember the days BC (Before Charlie) when I'd stay up all night playing Civ...

Valerie: It's kind of the opposite at our house: Charlie is standing by the door, ready to go, saying, "Mommy, have you got your phone? Have you got your keys?" He knows me so well...

So Brit, are you making a Thanksgiving dinner, or will you Go to one?

Sally Field gained 20 pounds on purpose to play Mary todd...she wanted to be the same size... as indicated by a dress of MTL's that they had... that is dedication to a role. hmmm Maybe we will go later tonight?
maybe? (doubt it..too much to do )

Have a happy Thanksgiving :)

Lucky you! I need to teach my monkey that! ;)

Have a great Thanksgiving to you and your lovely family, Brit!

Brit - it has been a very eventful year for you and I am pleased that most things have worked out well in the end. Happy Thanksgiving dear lady to you and yours.

Happy Thanksgiving, Brit!

Kath - Yes! Go see Lincoln! I would really like to go see it again. A friend from work asked me to go this weekend, but I can't because Whit's on duty so I have the boys all to myself! Whitney and I did some cooking for Thanksgiving. We were at her sister's house in Salisbury. Whit's turkey is the best, so she did that and the rest of worked on all the sides!

Valerie - My punk totally has the same clock as your monkey! And Thanks!

Amber - I generally think the same thing too when I see those posts! And I wish Will was a little more like Charlie with respect to being ready to go in a reasonable fashion.

Paul - Thank you! It has been an eventful year, but a good one. I hope I can start spending a bit more time on here.

Kerri - Thank you! I hope yours was nice too!

***

LT Friends - I know I keep saying I will be better about getting on and I feel like I am trying! Oh dear though! It's just so busy! I think about the time when I was a stay-at-home-mom and had so much time to read everybody's threads and get caught up in lists and lists and list of wonderful books! Oh well. One day. . .

Things here are going well. (Except for the fact that I really should be writing this kid's college recommendation right now. . . Oh well, there is tomorrow.) Not much to report. Basketball is in full swing and that's different than my other sports because we have late evening practices since there is only one hardwood court (the competition court).

***

Book #37: The Oath by Jeffrey Toobin

This was a phenomenal book and highly recommend it to just about everyone. While Toobin is bit more liberal than conservative, he does give the conservatives a fair shake. This book explains that shift that has occurred on the Court since Souter, O'Connor, and Stevens left and does a very good job of giving background on the recent important cases. Most notably, the health care law case which is the climax of the book. Toobin does an excellent job of writing and this book reads like a Grisham novel - only its all true! Again, highly recommended!

Now, the big question - what to read next? I am still like I am on a big non-fiction kick, but I have a couple ER/Member giveaway books to read . . .hmmm. . . .I guess I can start those because they are e-books and currently more accessible since I'm out on duty. I'm still working (listening) my way through McCullough's biography on Adams. While McCullough is truly an amazing historian, I believe he could benefit from some brevity . . .

I miss you! *Hugs* I'm sorry I fell behind on your thread, it looks like I missed some very stressful times in your life. I'm glad everyone is okay, and hope things are at least a little more peaceful for you now, even if you are still so busy.

Stephen!!! I miss you too! **HUGS BACK*** Please don't worry about falling behind on my thread. I hardly make it out to everyone else's in a timely fashion. Things are a bit more peaceful! It's nice that basketball season has started. I just really like coaching basketball!

***

Book #38 The Spirit Archer by Mike Evers (Member Giveaway)

I was pleasantly surprised by this novella. It was a fun and informative read. A good modern day story about teenager with a struggling single mom. The twist is that the teenager stumbles upon Robin Hood's resting place and begins to converse with the legend's spirit. There were many good facts that the author gave regarding Robin Hood's life. However, I was profoundly disappointed by the "Notes" section. Almost every single "note" was a link to wikipedia. Now, it was unclear if the author was merely pointing the reader there for more information, or if this was where the author actually received the bulk of information. I really hope it is the former.

>141 I know! I prode (=used to pride) myself on always being on time. In order to achieve that with two littlies, one must be UBER prepared and start UBER early in the process of leaving the house :)

I hope you picked the right one for the next read, I feel so much pressure sometimes starting a book. Hoping that Ill like it and feeling like I should finish it even if I dont....I go a lot more easily on myself these days about that. Life is too short afterall.

Megan - I used to have the hardest time putting down books that I didn't like! I'm much about it now. You're totally right, life is too short. And there so many books to read! I really enjoyed The Spirit Archer as a nice short and fun read. I started another member giveaway book last night The Legend of League Park, I'm hoping it is good. I'm still working through listening to John Adams.

Happy Day To You!

Linda - Thanks! I think the boys and I are going to the Delaware Children's Museum and meet up with some friends!

***

So, I just looked at my last thread from 2011 and realized that I read almost 60 books. This year I don't even think I'll get to 50. :( I'm trying not to focus on that, but it is still depressing. I will still join this group for next year though because you all are awesome!

Being on time was never an issue for me.. but I was always uber prepared.. I had to be with 4 ...
otherwise I was sunk. We didn't go out much though,as I didn't have a car of m own until they wre in high school.. so it didn't come up much. Dan was still drinking at the time, so he was much like having a 5th child. Only worse.

Do not worry about books read.. look at what you have done this year! You have grown your family... and had trips and trials and all sorts of things both wonderful and difficult to do instead. Family first always was and is my motto and I can see that it is yours, too. As it should be.

I miss seeing you around here and fb.. but I am happy for you living RL instead :)
hugs

Hello Kath! Well, I miss around here too! I'm trying to make it more of a priority.

Home today with a sick Willster. Hopefully, I can get caught up!

Oh no! Hope Will feels better soon!

And I agree that it's wonderful to see you around these parts again!

Thanks Amber! I like being around here!

Will's fever broke last night yay! Unfortunately, Whitney is sick now. . . Oh well, I'm just hoping that it doesn't get to me!

Oh no, a circle of crud. I hope you remain out of that loop!

Oh no! I hope it passes quickly for Whit and stops there!
hugs

Luxx - So far, so good! I'm just using my Mommy's superpowers to ward it off!

Kath - Me too, but she thinks she had a fever last night. . .

So, as most of you can gather, this week was incredibly long. One of my friends on FB put it brilliantly when she demanded to know who had snuck a couple extra days into this week!

I did manage to finish a book, though!

Book #39: The Legend of League Park by Amy Stilgenbauer

This book was a gem. It was beautifully written and, overall, the story lines were well drawn and intersected nicely. I would highly recommend this book to just about any baseball fan. Stilgenbauer's love of the game seeps into every page. Like any woman who has truly loved baseball since a young age, I faced many snickers from boys growing up. These sexist prejudices, while not dominant in the book, were carefully and thoughtfully added. While I would love to give this book 4 1/2 - 5 stars, I just cannot for a couple reasons. First, throughout the first half of the book it is very unclear if the main protaganist, Gioia Rinaldi, pitches softball or baseball. Stilgenbauer is not very clear on this front and found myself constantly wondering whether Rinaldi wanted a scholarship for softball and baseball. Similarly, the mechanics in pitching a softball versus a baseball are very different, so I had a difficult time buying into the premise that Rinaldi could be so dominant at each. I think it would have been more believable had Rinaldi been a phenomenal baseball pitcher and a softball center-fielder. That would be more plausible because those throwing mechanics are more similar and have a strong center-fielding arm would translate better to baseball. Second, one of the shorter story lines concerning Rinaldi's brother is cut short and I am left wondering why. That particular story-line is abruptly abandoned when I felt that it really could have been continually weaved into the overall story. Despite these, at times, frustrating drawbacks, the book was great and I was sad when it was over.

Okay - I am trying to finish The Art of Fielding (e-book) and still listening to John Adams. I was on quite a non-fiction kick and then got pulled into my last two fiction reads. While The Art of Fielding is also fiction, I'm hankering for another non-fiction read. I have a massive biography of George Kennan that I received last year for Christmas (clearly I need to add my own BOTS challenge!). I also have a biography of Frances Perkins that I have been wanting to read. Hmm. . . .not sure what to do . . . not to mention all the books I've put on my kindle! Ack! So many books, so little time!

Who else has read The Art of Fielding? I'm having trouble with it. It is almost too pretentious for my own taste, so I am struggling with.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>sending extra mommy superpower mojo >>>>>>>>>>>

Well, not to add to the problem, but I recently finished a book that made me think of you (in the sense that I think it may be right up your alley): Power, Faith and Fantasy, which is a history of the relationship between the U.S. and the Middle East, from the beginning of the U.S. on. It's fascinating and very well written.

Kath - Thank you!!! I think those extra vibes certainly helped me get through the week!

Amber - Thanks for the recommendation! I am adding it to my TBR list right now!

So, I am enjoying The Art of Fielding despite its pretentiousness. I was admitted to federal court in
Harrisburg on Friday which meant that I had a solid three hours of listening time for John Adams. I am greatly enjoying that book. I also decided that I think I would like to have my own challenge of reading a biography on every president. I am going to make a list, and include anything I have already read.

Is the 2013 page up yet? I'd like to save a space and hopefully I can get into a rhythm and stay up to date with everyone!

Congratulations to you, btw.... Very happy for you!

So... how about a christmas pic of your beautiful family some time soon?

hugs

Thanks! It was quite interesting being in Harrisburg. It took me longer to get there than it did to be sworn in!

I will work on a Christmas pic. Although our we are just using are unsent birth announcements as our Christmas card and then we are adding a letter.

Hugs back!

Ah well... totally understandable, AND a wise move. I myownself send nothing out.. so.. um.. Merry Christmas!

Ack!! As the holidays move closer, I seem to falling farther and farther behind!

Kath - Merry Christmas - although I'm sure we'll be in touch before then!

Book #40 The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach

I struggled with this book. I found the author to be overly pretentious, especially in the beginning. By the end, he really mellowed out with his writing. The story is fascinating, but really didn't begin to grab me until about a third of the way through. While it is an amazing book, I would only cautiously recommend it because it took so much patience to really get into it.

Hello Friends!

I am very excited that the 2013 thread is up, I have joined, but have yet to start a thread. I was so afraid I was going to miss it!

The past few days have been great! Took the boys to see Santa. I will post a pic when I'm not on the iPad. Finally decorated our tree and most of the presents are wrapped! Right now I'm starting a batch of pork loin chili, except this time I'm going to try making it with pork butt. And then this afternoon I'm taking the chili over to a friends house to watch some football and let all of our boys run around!

Oh yes, I am current reading Trading Manny, which is a fantastic read so far. Although I just received two short stories from member giveaways, so I may try to power through those. We shall see!

Happy Sunday Friends!

Did Will like meeting Santa? We're not even going to try with Charlie, for fear that he would either be terrified or horrified that is isn't really Santa at all but just dome dude in a suit (he's really too smart for his own good these days).

Brit - great to see things are going so well for you all at the moment. As I am going off to Langkawi island tomorrow I thought it best to get in my Christmas wishes a tad early. x

Amber - Yes, Will did like meeting Santa. It was the first picture of him with the big guy that I'm not in! Henry was a bit more skeptical. (Runs off to find html coding for pics. . . )

Paul - Thank you and a merry holiday for you and your family as well! Safe travels!

Love this pic!!!

Thanks for posting...

Much happiness to all of you, Brit dear!

Oh, such beautiful boys! And I love the look Hank is giving Santa - ha!

Oh, what a great picture!

Ha! "Skeptical" is one way to describe Henry's reaction, I guess. :P

Merry Christmas!! Love the picture with Santa!

Merry, merry Christmas, Brit! What a wonderful photo of the boys.

>165 I also decided that I think I would like to have my own challenge of reading a biography on every president. I am going to make a list, and include anything I have already read.
wow, that is an awesome challenge- good luck!

Wee Hank! He is so cute- and a smart looking big bro too! Is that his head gear I can see by his forehead? How is he handling it all? And you guys? I bet you are totally on top of things, no matter how hard it was for you in the first stages.

Happy Holidays!!

Hello Friends! I am sorry that the last few days have been so hectic that I was not even able to get on and wish you all a Merry Christmas on your own threads!

Amber, Luxx, Stephen, Chelle, Anne and Megan - Thank you all for the warm wishes. It was quite the trip to see Santa!

Megan - Yup, that's Hank's helmet. He is doing fine with it and it seems to be doing its job. Whitney was really upset at having the helmet at first, but now she is fine with it. I was a bit laissez-faire about the helmet at first, but now I have more trouble with it. I just like his plain bare head!

***

Books #41: John Adams by David McCullough (audio)

I am so glad that I finally finished this book! McCullough is masterful and his biography of our second president is excellent. The narrator was difficult in the beginning, but I think that had more to do with the mixing and editing. As a solid Jefferson fan, I was very curious about Adams. I really enjoyed getting to know him a bit better. Highly recommended to anybody!

ETA: I am just about finished with Trading Manny which is also very good, except for one quirk that is extremely annoying. The author keeps referring to Safeco Field as "The House the Juice Built." I take major offense and issue with this characterization. First, as any knowledgeable M's fan will tell you, Safeco is a true pitcher's park. It is quite cavernous. It was built back when Randy Johnson was the top pitcher in baseball. Additionally, if it wasn't so cavernous, then why, pray tell, are they moving the walls in this off-season! Second, the most prolific home run hitter in M's history, Ken Griffey Jr., was the most naturally talented hitters of the steroid era and there has never been a whiff of PED use associated with his name. Same thing with Edgar Martinez, the best DH in baseball history and career doubles leader for the M's. Anyway, I feel much having gotten that out of my system.

Book #42 Trading Manny by Jim Gullo

Overall, this was a very fascinating and heartwarming book about how a father helped his son (and himself) through the turmoils of the steroids scandal in baseball. Both father and son are avid baseball fans, and the son is devastated as the steroid scandal unfolds. The son begins sorting his baseball cards into cheaters and non-cheaters. Both father and son become disillusioned with baseball and the father embarks on a journey to help explain the scandal to his son. It was an excellent book and a must-read for any baseball fan.

***

Okay, so now I'm not sure what book to read next. I'm currently listening to a short Sherlock Holmes story on audio, with a biography of JimmyMad (a/k/a James Madison) ready to go after that. I think I will start with two short stories I received as member giveaways.

Book #43 The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (audio)

This was a free audio book on audible.com. It was an excellent short story for any Sherlock Holmes fan!

(And now I need to put Hank down for a nap!)

Some good steady reading here...well done!
Book slump here.. :(

How are the boys?
How are the mommies..?

Not a single thing going on here. thank goodness..

Good Morning Kath - Yes, lots of gobbling up of books! I have several more to post too! (Even if they are short). So sorry to hear about the book slump. :( Maybe it will snap out of it with the coming of the New Year? The boys are doing well - for the most part. Will is *very* three and testing limits all the time. Henry is doing great! He is an expert roller-over, can just about sit up without tipping over and has two little teeth! He is battling ear infection #5 though. . . The mommies are doing alright. I'm a little worn out from being up with Will every morning. He gets about around 6ish and is ready to burst with energy by 7:30. His Mama hardly ever gets up with Will - well, except for yesterday when Will slept until 7:15!! Oh well. I try not to let it bother me. . .

Glad that you are having a nice quiet Sunday! My favorite football team has a really big game today, so I'm hoping that I can find someplace to watch it - especially since it's not our cable.

Well, I'm off to get some more coffee, then be back to add more books!

In a lot of families.. a routine begins where one is more likely to get up with the kids.. drive to the store..
do this or that... Maybe you could make an agreement like Cee has ! She and Ron take week long turns getting up with the dog! :) Seriously... before it ends up being.. just the way it is.

But I am sure things will sort out.. sorry about all the ear infections for Henry.. yikes!
I hope he grows out of that.... and soon! Sounds like he is doing well otherwise.

I would put Olivers antics up against Will's any day! His threes are not enjoyable for those around him... :P

Book #44. The Missing Text by Amanda Lawrence Auverigne

Book #45. An Honest Mistake by Amanda Lawrence Auverigne

I received both of these short stories as part of a member giveaway. Unfortunately, neither was very enjoyable. I think if the stories had been any longer I probably would have given up on both of them. The first is about two teenage girls who want to see the latest vampire movie with their boyfriends. There is some miscommunication and they end up missing their double-date. The second story is about two sisters and their older brother. In both stories, the male characters are shown as meat-heads and jerks, which annoyed me. The authors attempt at writing in "teen-speak" also failed; none of the teenagers I deal with (which is a fair amount) talk how the author portrayed them. Overall, I was very disappointed.

Book #46. Star Wars Art: Comics by Douglas Wolk

This was an AWESOME book! It was a collection of various comic artwork in the Star Wars universe. I absolutely loved it. It was so interesting to see the different characters, universes, droids and vehicles as well as how the different artists portrayed them. I would highly recommend this book to any Star Wars or comic book fan!

Kath - Well, yes. I think it just is the way it is in our family with me being the one to get up with Will. It's fine until I want to rip my hair out which can happen anytime between 7:30 and 8. Whitney is always very appreciative so that helps. She is letting me go out and find someplace to watch the ball game this afternoon after naps.

As far as the ear infections go, I think we are headed towards tubes. Will had tubes and it helped tremendously.

Will is actually a pretty good kid - just lots of energy that can be difficult to funnel in a small apartment in the morning . . .

I honestly believe that kids are built differently these days. Maybe it is an evolutionary response to so much technology? In years past, kids played and made noise of course.. and lots of it. But they were able to settle down to quiet with no problem. These days.. kids seem to be riotously busy and on the run... or busy with tech toys.. preparing for a life with work in technology?
Dunno.

Oliver is very busy too..
Sometimes.. he isn't very nice... so spoiled!
His dad said no on Christmas night when he wanted to play with one of is brothers toys.
Dad said it was too loud and there were too many people for a toy that blows balls all over.
In fact, Dad had taken out the batteries. Grandma however.. replaced them overriding Dad ( again ) and
well.. you can see the problem. Grandma is there a lot!

It almost seems that kids need to run out their energy as much as they can all at once, since they weill be spending so much of their time to come sitting...

I am doing a bad job of explaining this.. :P

It's early!! Whitney is taking Will with her to play in the snow and walk the dog. Will can be good and calm down if you really focus him. But he reminds me of our dog (a yellow lab). You need to work out the energy or they can be difficult! :)

I get what you say Kath.
I see it happening before my eyes, although its not technology so much as DVDs for our Wilbur. It seems the only thing that'll calm him down, so we rely on it too much, then he goes running about crazily. Its about finding a balance.

Boys need an outlet, a physical outlet, for energy, or else you'll pay for it later in the day.

Happy New Year Brit!

Yeah, we have certain times that we let Will watch TV or play with the iPad. Generally the morning while I'm still trying to wake up. We like to read to him to calm him down too, but sometimes he is too much of a squirrel and it takes a while!

I agree with you, Megan - boy need a physical outlet! The recent snow has been nice because we haven't received much snow this winter so Will has been willing to spend hours outside while its cold. If it is just cold without the snow, it's a little more miserable for him to be outside for some reason.

Happy New Year!!

I need a book to read. . . I am currently listening to James Madison by Richard Brookhiser which is good and very interesting.