Carmenere’s(Lynda’s) Home for the Tipping Tower of Tomes – The First Floor

Wow! It's great to be out of the basement! At last, I'm on the first floor of the Tipping Tower of Tomes Home and as so many 75er's are sharing pictures of their location I thought I might post some interesting shots of the Cleveland area.
First up: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
2012 induction ceremony is scheduled for April 5th. This years inductees include Guns n Roses, Donovan and The Small Faces.

Hi and welcome to my 2012 thread!
This year, I hope to concentrate on books off my shelf also lovingly referred to as the Tipping Tower of Tomes but will undoubtedly be enticed by my fellow 75er’s to look into books, authors and genres I may have overlooked or may be new to me. In any case, I know it will be another exciting year in literature and I’m happy to have you along for the adventure.

This year I'm challenging myself to read 77 books, one more book than last year, including a number of large books for my 12 in ’12 Chunkster Challenge found here many of which have been languishing on my shelves for too long and taking up too much space.

I also plan to complete a couple of challenges I began in years past: Alpha Order Challenge, found here I only need an author with a surname beginning with U to complete this challenge and the State Challenge found here of which I need 37 more states! Hopefully, by again playing along with TIOLI, I’ll be able to insert a needed book here and there. I just can't help myself, I've joined a another challenge for this year BOMBS and it's here

If 2011 was the year of Hemingway 2012 is looking to be the year to reintroduce myself to Dickens and Steinbeck.
So …………let the new year begin!!

Currently reading



Currently listening to:


Books completed in the first half of 2012
January:
1) The Awakening - Kate Chopin - 4/5
2) Matterhorn - Karl Marlantes - 5+/5
3) Stories I Only Tell My Friends - Rob Lowe 4/5
4) Cannery Row - John Steinbeck 4.5/5
5) Seriously...I'm Kidding - Ellen Degeneres 2.5/5
6) My Seinfeld Year - Fred Stoller 2.75/5

February:
7) The Ledge: An Adventure Story of Friendship and Survival on Mount Rainier - Jim Davidson 4/5
8) The Wayward Bus - John Steinbeck 4.75/5
9) All My Life: A memoir - Susan Lucci 3/5
10) The Zen of Steve Jobs - Caleb Melby 4/5
11) The Night Bookmobile - Audrey Niffenegger 1/5
12) Finding Sarah A Duchess's Journey to Find Herself -Sarah Ferguson 2.5/5
13) The Tales of Beedle the Bard - J. K. Rowling 4.5/5
14) The World of Downton Abbey - Jessica Fellowes 5/5
15) Inside Out & Back Again - Thanhha Lai 4/5

March:
16) The Last Gunfight - Jeff Guinn 5/5
17) Shockaholic - Carrie Fisher 3.5/5
18) The Wall Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtin - Peter Sis -3.75/5
19) Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy - Ozzy Osbourne - 2.75/5
20) The Winter of Our Discontent - John Steinbeck - 4.25/5
21) Into the Wild - Jon Krakauer - 2.75/5
22) The Quants - Scott Patterson - 3.25/5

April:
May:
June:

Books completed in the second half of 2012

July:
August:
September:
October:
November:
December:

Hi Lynda!

Am I first? :)

You're number one, Cee! Welcome!

#11-2012

The Night Bookmobile
Audrey Niffenegger
2010
38 pages
1/5 and that's being nice

I read it now………………………because so many people were mentioning it awhile back and it caught my eye as I was going through the Graphic Novel section of my library.

Book Blurb………………Creepy librarian. Weird Winnebago. Worst of all, the assumption that dead people can not read in the afterlife. I won’t mince words, I hated it.

Would I recommend……………..absolutely, positively not!

New books I received today from Will's Scholastic Order.
Inside Out & Back Again
War Horse and
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

I love the picture of the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, Lynda.

Happy Valentine's Day, sweetie!

Hi Lynda! I love when people post pictures of where they live. My father's family is actually from Cleveland but I haven't been there in years.

I'll have to check out The Zen of Steve Jobs. I'm sorry you didn't like The Night Bookmobile. It was one of the first graphic novels I read and I liked it although I was shocked at the twist it took.

I will have to check out your other challenges. An author I haven't read yet (but have seen recommended here on LT) whose surname begins with "U" is Barry Unsworth. Sacred Hunger is the name of the book I have on my library list.

All I can contribute about your current reading is that my former hairstylist (she retired and went to Florida to have babies) used to be Sarah Ferguson's stylist. apparently she's v. nice, but has really thin, dry, brittle hair. In case anyone cares!!!

I have a stack of Barry Unsworth novels I want to read -- just got another one out of the library (Losing Nelson).

Hi Lynda nice to see you out of the basement:)

For a U author I really like Jane Urquhart and a good resource for checking out other potential reads is the Fanastic Fiction website here's a link to the U page http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/u/

Hope you have a good day.

#8 Hi Caro! Always nice to see you drop by. Didja know the RnRHoF was designed by I. M. Pei. I think he likes blocky buildings and triangles.

#9 I like traveling vicariously too, Pat. I hope I can find enough cool pics of Cleveland to get me through the year ;)

#10 LOL, Suzanne, I was just thinking the other day, as I listened to Fergie's audiobook that I have absolutely nothing in common with the Duchess. What a relief to learn that we do share thin, dry, brittle hair!

#11 Hey calm, Ugh, I'm still pulling cobwebs off my clothes and it's nice to see the light of day again.

Thanks for the U suggestions, Pat, Suz and calm! I'll check them out. Looking for something on the slim side.

I've been reading The Brothers Karamazov for my 12 in '12 chunkster challenge and what a challenge it is!
So far, mainly male characters, except for the short lived wives of Karamazov the Sr. I think skimming is in order but I'm afraid I'll miss something important and have to trudge back. So on with the mucklucks.

Zooooooom *

Hi Lynda, I love those guitars in front of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. If I ever get to Cleveland, that will be on my list of things to see.

Your thread is both educational and hilarious. Who knew that Sarah Ferguson has dry, brittle hair? Oh, the things I learn on LT. Thanks for that interesting bit of trivia, Suzanne!

Good luck with The Brothers Karamazov. I enjoyed it very much...even the dry parts. Too bad there are so many places you have to 'trudge' through to get to the payoff.

Wow. The Brothers Karamazov still intimidates me. Have fun stormin' the castle!

Hi Lynda, just checking into your new thread. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is on my bucket list, so maybe someday I'll get to Cleveland!

Hi Lynda. So, you're getting a head start on The Winter of Our Discontent, I see. I will be reading The Wayward Bus in the next few days. I also think it's terrific that you're tackling The Brothers Karamazov. Like Richard, I'm a bit intimidated by it. I'll be interested to hear about your reading experience.

Lucky #13 Hi Donna, I like dry wine and dry humor, but nothing can be drier than the beginning of Karamazov. It needs a heavy dose of chapstick.
Oh wait! There's a payoff?!

#14 Ha! You intimidated?! I can't imagine that, Richard but the thought of it makes me shudder. Cause if that's true I give myself slim to none chances of finishing this literary desert.

#15 Hope you do, Judy!

#16 Truth be told I sort of stalled on TWoOD, Ellen. Not because I wasn't enjoying it but the Brothers took me away from it. I hoped to finish TBK by the end of February, so it's priority.

Found you .. Sorry to be late ... long day yesterday...

I loved the Rock and roll hall of fame. I went years ago! I went with two
friends I had made on another site.. and frankly, did not expect to like it
as much as I did... I had a blast!

Hope today is a good one!

Hi Lynda!
Cheering you on with your reading of Karamazov...

can't say I'm tempted on that one yet :}
I am just not ready to tackle a heavy book yet this year.

>6 Carmenere: never was a fan of Audrey Niffenegger ....aint gonna convert me with that review:)

I love the title of The Winter of our Discontent, for that reason I'm seeking it out for.... next month is it?

I have Crime and Punishment on my list for this years reading....will look forward to seeing how you go with the other!

Yep.. I am enjoying light reads, or continuing to enjoy thing.
Life can get heavy, reading at least gives us a choice!

My current read is a YA, but it sounded quite good.
I am not far enough in to make a statement on it yet..
but I think I will be liking it.

I'll anxiously await your impressions of Inside Out and Back Again. I read it last week and it really was Newbery worthy!

Lynda missed your 2nd thread travelling to the south of Malaysia. Congrats and continue the good reading. I have the Dostoevsky itching to be taken off the shelves. Read The Winter of Our Discontent last year and whilst not my favourite of Steinbecks it is still good fare.

Hi Lynda! I hope you enjoy The Brothers Karamazov. A few years back I went on a Dostoevsky binge and read that, The Idiot (which is also great), and Crime and Punishment. Once I started reading him, I found it far less scary and difficult than I had originally thought. Next year I plan to do a classic Russian author category. I still haven't read any Tolstoy or Turgenev.

Happy weekend to you Lynda!!! Hope you are having much niceness!

Hi Lynda. I did finish The Brothers Karamazov several years ago but I got through it by making it the only book I took on holiday with me (long coach trip). It was good but there were bits that felt like hard work.

Hi reading buddies, Kath, Cee, Megan, Linda, Paul, Kerri and Heather!

I'm back from our short stay in Toronto. We had a great weekend, good food, a little shopping including a trip to Suzanne's suggestion, The Worlds Biggest Bookstore. Pics are being downloaded/uploaded whatever so I'll post a couple later. Now I've got some thread catching up to do.

Hi Lynda- I'm going to be in Toronto in early May-- I will make sure to stop by that bookstore. Maybe I'll book my flight earlier so I can have some time visiting. I'll wait to see your pics.

Now I have a little time for personal comments to:

#18 Hah, I've never been to the RnRHoF, Kath!

#19 Thanks for your cheering section, Cee. I need it!

#20 Glad you'll be joining in for Winter, Megan! I read Crime n Punishment many years ago and really enjoyed it so I have high hopes for TBK.

#21 I've discovered YA's are good for the soul once in awhile, Kath

#22 I'm going to try to get to Inside Out soon, Linda. It looks to be a quick read.

#23 Glad you're back save and sound from your travels, Paul!

#24 I haven't read any Turgenev either, Kerri. I look forward to see what you choose.

#26 Only book taken on your holiday? What a great idea, Heather. All my other books are calling out to me as I read Karamazov and it's hard to keep my head in the book. specially the long, descriptive paragraphs.

#28 I hope you do get a chance to visit the World's Biggest Bookstore, Manuel. I would need a day to really browse the store the way I would like but that would be a costly adventure.

--------
Karamazov update: OK women have been introduced into the story. Meeting at monestary with father Karamazov, the elder etc was really quite humorous.

Downton Abbey update: Wow! Excellent season finale!
So much to look forward to in Season 3.
Oh, did you hear, Shirley McLain will join the cast next season. Hear that, Kath?! Maybe she'll draw you into the DA craze :0)

Some pics. Marche is an interesting restaurant. It's like a farmers market only all the food is prepared for you.
Is that CN tower? If so, that's the view from our room.
The World's Biggest Bookstore is HUGE! Only purchased 2 books: The Man in the Picture by Susan Hill and The Shadowy Horses by Susanna Kearsley a Canadian author.
Also purchased a globe for Will's birthday and a Brie Baker from WBB. They've got everything you can imagine!
No snow in Toronto! Everyone we talked to is waiting for the big snowstorm to hit, too.

Love the pics, Lynda! I enjoy Susanna Kearsley... hope you do too.
All those books and you only bought two? You are a very restrained woman.
The restaurant looks lovely!
Glad you went, Glad you had fun!
And Glad you took pics!

Heeey, didn't that place used to be called RichTree??? I wonder why they changed the name!!! Maybe it flipped ownership...

I've been to World's Biggest Bookstore a few times -- it's fun, but I tend to get sensory overload because the place is so huge big! LOL

...hmm... from the sounds of things... maybe we should consider doing a Toronto LT meetup in May?

*googles Toronto map*

Great photos and what a bookstore! I read The Shadowy Horses last year and enjoyed it and am planning to read more Kearsley this year. Marche looks great - what did you eat there?

Hi Lynda- Wow, great photos! I want to go there!

I loved the DA finale too! Just about perfect!

There's Marché in Canada? I think it comes from Switzerland (?). I had one in Frankfurt, and there's one in a motorway road house close to my parents' place. Whenever I visit them I stop there to buy some bread. For a restaurant chain they offer exceptionally good food.

What a bookstore! It would be my ruin.

Glad you enjoyed your trip to Toronto, Lynda. I love the view from your hotel room.

Love the Toronto photos Lynda and as many times as I've been to Toronto I have never been to that bookstore. Wow!

Hey everybody! I've got to run but I'll catch up with your posts later today.

Run carefully!!!

Great pictures Lynda! Glad you enjoyed your trip! :)

Hi Lynda. Great pictures, it looks and sounds like a good break. Hope you are having a good day.

#31 Yup, only two books, Kath. If I were shopping by myself I would have spent more time and money at the bookstore but I'm happy.

#32 Hey Faith, I Googled RichTree and I think your right, Marche looks like the same restaurant. But no explanation given as to why they changed the name.
Sensory overload, indeed! I had to put on my imaginary horse blinders to keep focused on the sale islands at WBB.

#33 Toronto is about 6 hours away from me, Kath. Probably, about the same for you. Thank goodness my husband did all the driving. I love Toronto but you've got to be a great driver to handle the traffic.

#34 Hi Dejah! I'm glad to see you enjoyed The Shadowy Horses I think I'll move it up on my to read soon list.
I ordered a really healthy and delicious pizza on ciabatta, topped with cauliflower, asparagus, gorgonzola, tomatoes and other yummy veggies.
The guys had steaks, which they thoroughly enjoyed.

#35 LOL, and I want to go to San Diego, Mark!

#36 Wow, I didn't realize Marche was part of a chain. I'd really like to buy a franchise for my area as we have nothing like it around here and I think it would be well received, in the right location.

#37 Ya know, Judy, I really enjoyed just looking out the window and gaze down at all the hustle and bustle on the streets below....and give thanks that I'm not one of the worker bees :0)

#38 I've got to thank Suzanne for the heads up regarding the Worlds Biggest Bookstore, Bonnie. Hope you get a chance to check it out, you'll be happy you did. It's right off of Yonge so centrally located.

#40 Lol @ Kath. Ran carefully, but exhausted none the less. Donut and glass of milk then it's to bed with me after I post this.

#41 Hey Chelle, glad your trip was good too. I've noticed about the house inspection on your thread but didn't have time to respond. Your second choice looks just as if not more beautiful than the first. Glad the inspectors came through for you.

#42 Hi there, calm. I'm pooped! Heading off to bed after a busy day. Must visit your thread tomorrow.

Night all.

Lovely photos of Toronto! I was there in 2010 for a work trip at the University of Toronto, but was so busy, I couldn't do anything fun. I hope to go back some day!

About "Downton Abbey": Shirley McLain will join the cast next season. No??!! Hard to imagine!! Have not yet watched the final episode of this season (I'll get to that when I return from Hawaii), but I'm looking forward to the finale!

Toronto..six hours? Hmmmmmmmm

DOC: Meet the Author series, Lakewood OH

February 22, 2012 at 7:00 PM

Mary Doria Russell

#44 Hi Kerri! We were only there 48 hours and simply not enough time. There is so much to see and do, I'd love to go back in the Summer.

#45 Oh! Do you have something to look forward to, Ellen. In the meantime continue to have a great time in Hawai'i!

#47 Thanks for the heads up, Kath. Lakewood is a bit too far away from me.

#12-2012
Finding Sarah: A Duchess’s Journey to Find Herself

Sarah Ferguson
2011
Audio
2.5/5

I read it now because…………………..I noticed it on the library shelf as I was looking for something that might interest me in audio format.

Book Blurb…………………Ms. Ferguson uses this venue to explain the misunderstanding involved with her latest scandal, that of accepting cash to give access to Prince Andrew. Being a very difficult time in her life she seeks solace through various means such as meditation, spirituality and health spas. For those who do not have friends living in grand style and who offer their homes to you to aid in your recovery or the ability to jet to serene destinations, oh like Tibet for example, the Duchess offers “nuggets” which may help the reader overcome difficult times, some are clichés which I’ve heard many times before.
As Sarah provided the narration for her book, I can say she sounds like a lovely and very kind person and adores her daughters and ex-husband. The book is at its best when she doesn’t offer advice.

Would I recommend it…………..Sorry, Sarah, I’d say no. Not feeling depressed when I started the audio, I began to feel more and more disheartened that I am unable to enjoy this kind of lifestyle. I would think that there are many more first person narratives that offer help to those seeking it without bringing them down further.

Lynda - I would get lost for days in the world's largest bookshop and probably take on a debt on the scale of the GDP of Rwanda as a result. Hope you didn't spend too much there.

Glad you had a fun get-away. Pictures are enticing... love the happy shopper leaving The World's Biggest Bookstore ;-)

#50 So right you are, Paul. Had I spent more time there, Suze Orman would be restructuring my finances right now. Luckily, we moved on quite quickly and I escaped unscathed.

#51 Hi Cee, Yes, I'm happy for the couple books I purchased but it was also getting close to dinner time.

I'm still reading Karamazov, though rather slowly, it seems The World of Downton Abbey has really pulled me into the early 20th century and I am enjoying that very much.

I also started The Tales of Beedle Bard for no other reason that it was small, it's a book off my shelf and figured I could finish it quickly. The tales in it are really quite good.

That big bookstore?? I worked there for most of a year! I ran the fiction & literature department for about eight months, until I went off to journalism school. And Marche? That's where I used to eat lunch when I came back from journalism school, and worked at the WSJ's Toronto bureau! (At least, I did once that big bank complex was opened -- it was the last of the big parts of the whole system, built around '92, I think.) I still eat there or get takeout there when I'm back in Toronto. Glad you had fun...

Suze Orman gets on my last nerve! lol
I am just skimming to catch up, but her name leaped out at me and made me itch.
I read The Tales of Beedle Bard a while ago.. I have no memory of it at all .. none. :P

I just wanted to pop in and touch bases ahd wish you a good day..
Oh and sorry Sarah didn't do it for you. I have always liked her......but..
She does whine a bit about her unhappy childhood. Few have a perfect one,
and she grew up to marry a prince and live in a castle ... and even though she
managed to spoil it, she still basically still has all of it but the marriage, so? She
should be happier.. imo

30: Great pictures, Lynda! Toronto is about a 18-hour drive from here, but I still want to go the The World's Biggest Bookstore. We took a family vacation to Toronto in the 80s and had a great time except for the teenager who had to leave his first love for a few days. Such pouting.

The Brothers Karamazov are steadily climbing up mount tbr, also thanks to your thread. They have already overtaken Doctor Zhivago which I had originally planned as my 'big Russian read 2012'. Two days ago I got a clear signal: I found the Italian version of the "Brothers" as give-away book at the check-out in my library. Now I have an English version on the Kindle and the German and Italien translations as real books. No more excuses - I must read it soon!

About Sarah: I would never read her book (I think), but I just can't help liking her, with all her faults and all her terrible mishaps. Like you I am convinced she is a very nice person, and I am sure she has a good and rough humour. I wish she wouldn't have to do things like publishing such a useless book or campaigning for diet companies just for the sake of money.

#53 I hope WBB had a payroll deduction plan for all the books you surely couldn't resist to buy, Suzanne.

#54 No memory of Beedle the Bard, Kath? I'm finding the stories very amusing but only time will tell if they stick.

#55 "Leave his first love for a few days" Yikes, I can only imagine what that was like, Donna. It probably felt like an eternity for your teen. Something else to look forward to I 'spose.

#56 Glad your moving up The Brothers , Nathalie. I'm enjoying the read just can't keep at it for long periods of time. I also need to reread alot of sections because they're so deep. I wonder if these passages were Dostoevsky's thoughts. Was he trying to speak his own mind. *Shrug*
And yes, I don't like to see Sarah sell herself to finance the lifestyle she's come to enjoy. Her divorce from Andrew is one of the most bittersweet relationships I can recall. they seemed perfect together.

Ok, here's my guy, better listen to what he says ;0)
http://www.loc.gov/bookfest//media/psa2011.html

Hey! That was a good PSA!

Sarah... I know, I still do like her as well. She has made so many
bad choices. I hope her daughters manage to do better. I won't judge
them by their choice of hats.. lol. All Brits seem to have interesting ideas
about hats.....

#58 speaking of hats, Kath, I wish they would be more popular in the US. I like their individualty factor.

I so want to read on this snowy Saturday but I've been cleaning ever since I woke up this morning. Put a pot of homemade beef soup together and finished one book shelf. Now, back to put the second together. Shwoo!

Just a 30% discount... However, we did find a cool way to finance our purchases. Penguin would periodically have 99 cent classics sales -- we would load up (at about 70 cents a pop), then take them up to the 2nd hand shop, where we could sell them for 1/2 the cover price. Then back with the loot to the bookstore to buy new books. I think it's called arbitrage... or summat.

I certainly wouldn't let Suze Orman spend my money - not nearly enough books would get added from the hitlist.
Our Suze on the other hand is a dark horse indeed. I didn't realise that she had been in training already for our proposed Fowey venture - and what a smart business woman (isn't that insider trading?!)

#60 Lol, So this is where your knowledge of high finance began! That was genius, Suzanne!

#61 Paul, I'm finding that not a day goes by where we're not finding out more about our fellow readers.

OK, now to catch up on a couple of reviews.

#13-2012
The Tales of Beedle the Bard

J.K. Rowling
207
111 pages
4.5/5

I read it now because………………..I purchased it at a book sale not too long ago. It looks brand new and it just called out to me to touch it and caress its lovely cover and crisp pages. I was sucked into it. If that’s not magical I don’t know what is. Another one for my BOMBS challenge.

Book Blurb…………………….A collection of five short stories or fairy tales, if you will, for wizards and witches which teach that virtue is rewarded and wickedness is punished. I found that a little common sense is just as good as magic in some cases. At the conclusion of each story, Dumbledore is on hand to offer his comments and background information.

Would I recommend?......................Yes, I would hope other muggles would find this collection just as delightful as I. The only problem is, there are not enough stories.

Beedle.. it is such a cute little book.. hard to pass up.
I don't own a single Harry Potter. My sister used to go and buy two hard copies of each one
for her family of four. I just hung around and waited for them to be done. This one, I own.

Hats.. I look ridiculous in them myownself..
but I would really like to have a big brimmed sun hat to wear outside
at time. I had one once.. it fell apart.. lol

#14-2012The World of Downton Abbey

Jessica Fellowes
2011
303 pages
5/5

I read it now because……………………….I must admit, I am hooked on Downton Abbey, the Masterpiece production aired on PBS and I wanted to peruse the book just to check out the pictures. What I got was much , much more than I had imagined.

Book Blurb…………………This absolutely beautiful book isn’t just some decorative item to keep on your cocktail table to tell the world that you’re familiar with a popular television series. It is a collection of stunning stills from the show and historical pictures from people who have a connection to this moment in history or the venue itself, Highclere Castle.
The book offers comments from cast members, behind the scenes information from everyone involved in the production of the series including hairstylist to costume designer to writers and consultants. By all means it is a complete depiction of the making of an extraordinary production.

Would I recommend it?.........................Did you really have to ask? If you know of and enjoy the series you must, by all means, add this book to your collection. If you are not familiar with Downton Abbey, well for goodness sake, what’s taking you so long?!

#64 Hi Kath, I was working on my second review when you posted.
Yeah, the Beedle the Bard book is definately a keeper and I am not a keeper of books for I don't have the room for all the books I've read let alone the ones I haven't, but this one, one of the few I will refer back to again.

Morning Lynda- "If you are not familiar with Downton Abbey, well for goodness sake, what’s taking you so long?!" Amen, sister. I'll have to check out The World of Downton Abbey. The DA love continues...
And go Clint!!

Hey Mark! We've been streaming Rawhide for the past couple of weeks. I just can't get enought of Rowdy Yates

Lynda for your book reviews 13 and 14 why have you reverted to 2011?!

Just checking to see if people actually read my reviews. That's it, yeah.

Hi Lynda. Hmmm, I'm tempted by The World of Downton Abbey but mostly I just want them to do more episodes!

I am not hooked on Downton Abbey, Only watched part of the first episode.
I think I will try again to watch it. I have been not so good at keeping up with tv
most times. With Shirley Maclaine in it this season though, I might be able to do it..

Your post about Rowdy Yates sent me on a marathon of pondering whether names
are self fulfilling prophecies. Then I wondered if it was only true, if it were true at all,
for dogs and cats as well as people.

Talk about a wandering mind...

Good news Ellen, DA will do more episodes. Bad news, We just need to wait till January 2013 to see them.
Of course watching seasons one and two all over again are a great option.

News Flash: As God is my witness, and my LT buddies too, I will not buy another book this year! Kindle Deals of the Day don't count. But after assembling two new bookcases and organizing my books in alpha order all weekend I have discovered that I can easily withstand the WWBF. My unread books total in the 100's. Jeez Louise, My place looks like a public library. Crossables are not crossed, this time, I mean business.

I will not hold you to that... it was proclaimed under duress ~

Hi Kath, we cross posted. Hope your mind has stopped wandering and found its way back to its proper place.

I'm listening to the local news and there's just been a school shooting at a school within my County but not locally. Still, too close for comfort. I pray for the safety of those kids.

#74, No, no, Kath, you must hold me to it! If I waiver, please be my Bookaholics Buddy.

I cannot expect from you, more than I can expect from myself when it comes to book not buying..
Can we still be buddies? :)

How about if we both try not to buy more books, and let each other know if a purchase is imminent?
Like chocolate cake and diet buddies :)

School shooting.. dear goddess! Terrible just never ends these days. How can these things continue.

I posted in Stasia's thread about an 11 year old boy nearby who shot and killed his father's fiance who was nine months pregnant. Then he went to school like nothing had happened. After much dithering about.. they have decided not to charge him as an adult. I have mixed feelings. Surly a typical 11 year old knows that taking a shot gun to a sleeping woman could result in a bad outcome. It is not a child's crime. Will keeping him in prison for his entire life be right? Will allowing the whole thing to disappear when he is 18 be right?I just don't think that there is a right for something so wrong. And now, another child shooting at? adults? children? So sad and so terrible.

What a horrible story! Maybe he didn't know it was loaded, was jealous of her and the new baby and was 'playing' shooting her while she was asleep, pulled the trigger just that little bit too far. And when he saw what happened he blended it out. The latter would be a typical reaction of a child - he just couldn't process it. How did he get the gun and how (if it wasn't loaded before) did he know how to do that at that age?

I am wondering how he could be considered an adult. In Germany there's a law that kids cannot be held responsible for their actions until they're 14 - no way could you send a kid of that age to prison. A closed ward - yes, maybe, if required. I agree that 14 might be too old in some cases, but you need to draw a line somewhere. 11 is still so very young.

(I don't know the background to this sad story - I just know what can happen with guns. My dad has a gun - he also has a permit - and many years ago when we moved to our new house, two of his friends who helped with the moving found the gun and started playing with it - aiming at each other. They were definitely not drunk and both were then far in their thirties. A shot went off and thanks God hit the floor, tearing a big hole. Imagine the shock. The gun has since been locked away in a security container)

http://www.wtae.com/news/30516973/detail.html is the latest info.

http://www.wtae.com/news/18781193/detail.html from when it happened.

Accidents do happen with guns. My sister had one.. shot herself in the foot.
I don't remember for sure, but I think he shot
her more than once. He brought it from another room and used the gun. I
honestly do not remember the details that well any more. I think that is one reason the
trial has been delayed for so long. He has been in custody in a juvenile facility.

He is 14 now.

One of the students Lynda mentioned above has died. Very sad :(

On a lighter note..

It is a warm and beautiful day here.. I think we dodged a bullet
as far as winter is concerned. We have had a warmish and really
not snowy or difficult few months, and february is nearly over.
Three weeks until spring, I think?

Yes, Kath, on of the five students shot has died. Of the remaining 4 students 1 is in serious condition, one fair and no report of the other two life flighted to hospital.

The community is stunned, to say the least. No official cause for the shooting has been reported but the gunman has been apprehended.

Funny, I'm almost finished reading a book about a little girl from Saigon who moved to the US in 1975 and the bullying she was subjected to because she was different. Not to say this case is due to bullying, but you never know.

My heart goes out to you and your community, Lynda. I'm so sorry one of the students lost their life. Very tragic and so incomprehensible.

I can't think of one good thing about guns. Srsly.

There's not one good thing to say Claudia. Guns have no redeemable values. I thought of you right away when I heard it on the news Lynda. Just terrible. When will it ever end?

Hi Ellen, Cee and Bonnie! We've been hearing, since last night, that a second student passed away and now it is confirmed. It's all so unimaginable.
There seems to be so many different layers to this tragedy. My heart goes out to the family and friends of everyone involved.
If you could all see this little town of Chardon, so picture perfect, a place where time seemed to stop at the turn of the 19th century, so quickly brought up to the 21st.

So, I do need to get back to Karamazov but the problem is a new TIOLI month is starting and I get all excited. That's why I'm excited to start reading Into the Wild today. Brothers are staying home.

Cee... I feel the same ..

Lynda.. I cannot imagine. I seriously cannot. These things always take my breath away.
You have to wonder what it was that caused this. I have been thinking of their families since
it happened :(

Home is a good place to be today ((((Lynda)))

Lynda- Enjoy Into the Wild. It was a terrific book (Good film too). I'm a big fan of Krakauer and have loved all his books.

Hi Lynda! I'll be curious to read your reaction to Into the Wild. I saw the movie, but didn't read the book. It seems that people either love it, or hate it and want to shake some sense into that kid. I fall into the latter category, quite frankly.

Aaaaaaargh! I'm dead dog tired, my iTouch battery is nearly dead,took brothers Karamazov out of my bag and forgot to put Krakauer in. So no books during hyperbaric. I'm my own worst enemy for sure! Hopefully I'll have enough west wing episodes to get me through.

No book for hyperbaric?!? horror of horrors! I am so sorry. Being stranded without a book is just plan terrible. So sorry :(((

A third student passed away this afternoon, may they all rest in peace.

So sad...so senseless.

Hey Lynda, thanks for stopping by my thread today. Just feeling so, so sad about the Chardon high school shootings. I don't have kids, but I have worked with kids for over 20 years in youth theatre, and this must be so shocking and confusing for them. My heart goes out to the entire community.

On a less somber note--I saw that Downton Abbey book at the bookstore the other day. It looks gorgeous. I am going to see if I can get it from the library.

Sandy K

I become SO FURIOUS when I hear the gun lobby say smugly "guns don't kill people; people kill people." At what point will they acknowledge that without guns, it becomes a great deal harder for people to kill people? If you have to run someone down and stab 'em with a carving knife, well, let's just say I've yet to see a single headline about a "knife massacre". It takes a group of people and some serious knives, like Rwanda & the machetes, to do serious damage. Sure, it can be done, but guns make it a lot easier. While there are relaxed gun laws, it is far too easy for weapons to make it into the hands of people who flip out and murder their families or go on rampages like this. Utterly irrational. Sorry, but this makes me livid. It's stupidity.

Lynda, so sorry to hear the news about the shootings. As Nathalie said, it just seems so senseless.

Suz, Amen. amen.

What a terrible thing for the families..
for the entire school, neighborhood and how hard is it to send the
kids back to school, now :(

hugs

Such horrible things happening - so sorry to hear about the local school.

{{{Hugs}}}

Hope everything in your life is going smoothly and that you have a book to read.

what a horrible thing! Sending hugs

Not sure what happened with the student, but very sad ultimately for everyone. Sorry for you.

What a terrible tragedy. I read Columbine last year and even that well written book couldn't make sense out of such a senseless act. If only guns weren't so readily available, perhaps these horrible events could be avoided, as Suzanne says, "You don't see headlines about a knife massacre!"

Just adding - yep, hate guns. don't hate many things, but guns I hate.

Lynda, just know that you're in our thoughts. Such sad and senseless events.

Peace.

Thinking of you Lynda, and your community...I just heard one of the moms on GMA.
She is a very good woman, I could not be so generous.

How are things going in the rest of your life?
Well, I hope?

#93 Yes, indeed, Donna, senseless!

#94 I have a feeling you're going to enjoy The World of Downton Abbey, Sandy.

#95 Until things change, Suzanne, why don't schools simply prohibit bookbags from school. How does this stuff get into the building? In bookbags. Back in my day, it wasn't cool to carry your books in any kind of bag
but I guess today they need their hands free for cell phones, ipods, ipads, nintendo's etc etc etc.

#96 Does this stuff happen in England, Heather?

#97 Kath, The one student remaining in hospital is paralized from the waist down. God help him and his family.

#98 Does this stuff happen in Wales, calm?

#99 Does this stuff happen in Canada, Chelle? Thanks for the hugs.

#100 Are there school shootings in NZ, Megan?

#101 I haven't read Columbine, Judy. But I have read We Need to Talk About Kevin, Kevin seemed to be born that way.

#102 What are the odds, Ellen. The Cleveland Indians can't win a world series, the Browns can't win the Super Bowl, the Cavs can't win a title but there's a school tragedy 20 miles from my neighborhood. Go figure.

#103 She's one tough cookie, Kath. I suppose talking about it is part of the healing process. Hopefully.

How are things going in the rest of your life?

Welllllll, we've tapped 75 trees yesterday and today we boiled down a pretty nice amount of sap. It's in the finisher now and we'll probably be filling bottles in the next hour or so. (I took a couple of pics, probably post tomorrow) It was spring like yesterday, the first time we did this without a foot of snow on the ground. Now that's enjoyable!

I see I blabbed enough for awhile, hope all is well in all of your corners of the world. For me it's back to syrup production. Night!

I dunno about book bags -- I'm 50, and I have always had bookbags of one kind or another, starting with a satchel. I can just imagine dropping things here, there, everywhere. Well, actually, that's what I did for a couple of years in Belgium when I would go back and forth with a massive binder full of notes and at least four thick textbooks every night in order to get my homework done. If we can't ban guns (the easiest, especially since one of the British school shootings I recall involved an adult taking a gun into an elementary school) then put up metal detectors.

Unfortunately things like that do happen in Canada. I fear it's a human thing, no location is spared from violence and hate. I just wish it were harder for people to find guns, it might take away the amount of violence if people had to work harder to find them when they are upset or angry.

I've never tapped trees for sap before? Do you sell it or is it for your personal use?

#105 I don't know, Suzanne. I'm still not convinced MD's are the way to go. At first glance, yes, they sound good but then there's the expense of purchasing them for each building in the district and the labor force to utilize them properly. Unfortunatly, many districts can't afford books. And like many security camera's they may never even be used but sit idle.
Then you open another can of worms by frisking kids who set off the alarm because of, what, a key chain.
Then it's belt buckles and then it's uniforms all around and I see police state. Lastly would kid's be harmed if they were exposed to this everyday for 12 years?

No easy answers, I'm afraid.

#106 I fear it's a human thing So true, Chelle.

Most of it is for gift giving, personal use but some neighbors insist on paying for it. They know the work involved and the price at the market.

Now to get to those pics I promised.

Oh no, paralyzed from the waist down? I can't wrap my brain around how he did all
of that so spontaneously. I mean, to do so much damage, three deaths and this too? Was he an experienced shooter, or was he just that close?

Columbine is an extraordinary book. The story is told from a distance and a perspective
that does not sensationalize . I recommend it for someday..

sending more hugs, for what it is worth, because there are no words..

#108 Hugs back at cha, Kath. We all need them in some way or another.

Lynda, thanks for the pictures. It looks like a major operation! And what a fantastic backyard.

I admit I'm avoiding all the news about the school shooting. It's all so sad and incomprehensible to me. I'm really sorry it happened so close by to you.

Fresh maple syrup!!! Yum...
Don't you hate eating out, ordering pancakes or french toast, and then finding they deliver it with corn syrup?? that should be illegal.

Hi Lynda- I LOVE the BIG photos! It looks like you have a nice property. Hey, I'll have to give you my address, so you can send me some home-made syrup. Ditto on the Yum!

OOOO! REEEEAL maple syrup. A lot of work!
I just can't buy anything else anymore - no matter what it costs. I'm so very spoiled.
Just had Maple Salmon for supper - yummy :)
I also would never order pancakes, french toast, or waffles out. They never arrive hot enough for me.

#109 - Oh my! What an impressive production! I want some.

Stopping by to wave hello.

I love the photos!!!!

>104 Carmenere: I dont think I have heard of a school shooting here. To me it seems a very North American phenomenon, and one I can barely imagine. There is the odd violent act reported from a school, and rising aggression amongst female students has been reported on recently as well. But thankfully you just dont see handguns here. Ive never seen one.

Good job on the maple syrup gathering, you will be set up for a while with all that. Its so worth all the work now for the rewards later.

I'm on my way over to your back yard. Lemonade and good books ready? Oh, maybe I'll wait until it warms up just a tiny bit.......

Happy weekend greetings Pat, Suz, Mark, Cee, Kerri, Linda, Megan and Ellen. Thanks for the nice comments. Will gave the log cabins to his teachers and neighbors have been calling since the buckets went up. Bill boiled down sap all day Thursday then we filled the containers about 10pm. Our yield was 1.7 gallons. Yeesh!

it seems a very N American phenomenon If that's not depressing I don't know what is!

Yes, Ellen the yard looks better when hammocks are hanging from the trees instead of buckets.

Typing my comments in bed, thumb sore from iTouch keyboard, Peanut is looking for breakfast, but it's dreary and windy, looks cold so a little more snooze time is called for.
I'll be back later w/2 reviews.

Tree tapping time again. I love that I know someone who does this. Did the mild winter affect the sap output? Maybe I'll post pictures of our black walnut crop next year, although picking up nuts is not nearly as cool as making maple syrup! Thanks for the terrific pictures, Lynda.

#104 It does happen in England Lynda but it's less common. I can't recall a school shooting where a student took a gun in but there has been one where an adult took a gun in. There are occasional stabbings in UK schools by students but as Suzanne said earlier, it's a lot easier to hurt more people with a gun.

Hope your sore thumb gets better.

I am so impressed by your maple sugar operation~

Dan inexplicably set his alarm for 6 am today.
I woke, the furkids woke.. Dan went back to sleep until 8-830.
He has no explanation. I am sleepy now, and think I might try for a nap.

Love the pics of the maple syrup tapping! I love real maple syrup.

If I may answer Kath's question back a few posts--the shooter was in very close range to the victims. Like one lunch table over. Stood up, pulled out gun and started shooting, according to student eyewitness reports that I heard on the news.

Sandy K

#120 Hi Donna, I have heard from professional tappers that this has been their best year in a long, long time. Almost getting double the amount of syrup. As for us, we just started March 1st and will continue till the trees bud.

#121 Heather, I'm so sorry to see that school shootings are so commonplace. I agree it would be more difficult to stab 5 kids in the cafeteria and I would imagine less likely of causing fatalities.

#122 Kath, it felt so good to fall back to sleep yesterday but I found that I seemed a little off all day and tired early at night. I guess I'm just an early morning person period.

#123 We love it too, Sandy and cringe at getting the bottled stuff at restaurants, but it seems most in Geauga County will give you the good stuff because they know what we expect in a good syrup. I guess were smug about syrup :}
Thanks for filling in the detail in my absence. I'm a little confused about why the prosecution was saying this was random when the local paper gives details as to why at least one of these kids was targeted. *shrugs*

I still have two reviews to come, I just don't feel like it, bear with me folks. They're coming for Inside Out & Back Again and The Last Gunfight
Hopefully, I'll scribble something later today.

#15-2012
Inside Out & Back Again
Thanhha Lai
2011
262 pages
4/5

I read it now because……………………I selected this book from my son’s Scholastic Magazine and read it almost immediately because it looked so interesting and a quick read.

Book Blurb……………………..The books begins in 1975 when a little girl named Ha makes her first journal entry . She is living in Saigon with her mother and brothers and enjoying the celebration of a new year. She loves nurturing her papaya tree and living a carefree life a ten year old girl should. Problems are arising on the horizon however, her best friend is leaving town and South Vietnam is about to fall. They must consider leaving but how can they leave their father behind when he’s been missing for years? How will he find them?
Leave they must but Ha finds that being very different from everybody else in Alabama is far worse than she could ever imagine.

Would I recommend. The journal entries are short and very moving. This book is a little treasure for those who find they will never fit in but through the goodness of others it happens…… in time. Highly recommend.

I've never actually witnessed or participated in tree tapping. It sounds really fun --- and yes, about as North American as one can get. (I'm sure there are other places where this occurs, but to me it just screams New England and Canada).

Ellen, today is going to be a fantastic day for tapping. 60 degrees! The buckets are almost full to the rim so my husband is going to be very busy this morning. When my son and I get home this afternoon will help with the finishing and bottling.
Have I mentioned the wonderful aroma which comes from the evaporator? It's soooo good!

Believe it or not another 20 hyperbaric sessions have been prescribed for my mom so that will take us to the middle of April. And there could be more after that, fingers crossed that it's not necessary.
Picked up more audio books from the library and season 2 of West Wing is on it's way. The make the trip and wait more tolerable.

Hope many of you are sharing in this beautiful spring like day!

OH NO! One of my local libraries has started self serve pick up on books you've placed on hold! Grab your book then head over to the self - serve check out machines and you're out the door. Without even chatting to a librarian. What's next, the future of librarians etc.

Sorry to hear that your mom has to have more treatments. Hope that all this is worth it and that you have plenty of books to help with all the waiting.

I don't like the idea of self-serve checkouts (not even in the supermarket) and having them in the library just seems so wrong.

NOOOOO! More treatments.. I weep for your hours spent waiting.
I would be a gibbering blob of humanity. I am not good at waiting ...I sure hope
this is the last of them and that mom heals well.

Not self check out at the Library!!!! :( I hate self check out anywhere.
And I hate voicemail gone wild. You know where it is redundant and repetitive and terrible. I hate any
voice mail at a doctors office. Travesty.

However, on the plus side, today sounds like it will be fun when you get home!

We have a self-serve "hold" at our local library... it's weird. I don't like it. I feel strange going and picking books off the shelf there -- how can they be sure someone doesn't grab someone else's books? I do use the self-checkout sometimes though... it's very fast, and depending on who's working that day, much more pleasant than the librarian at the desk... o_O

I am sorry your mom has to get through even more treatments. Fingers are crossed that those will work well and will be the last ones!!

You know, I never really thought about how maple syrup is harvested. And now after having seen those pictures I got a craving for American breakfast, with pancakes, bacon and maple syrup. Maybe I'll find some at the organic food store.

Library rant coming:
I love my self-service checkout at the library - since I joined them I have used it whenever possible. I'd be happy if they offered the service for requested books as well. The queues at the normal counter are often terribly long and people always have complicated issues to discuss. I doubt any of the staff there are librarians or book lovers, for me they all look like your usual lethargic municipal employees. They are never helpful, and I am really tired of spelling out author's names to the staff at the info point ("it's Steinbeck - like 'Stein' (German for stone) and then b-e-c-k").
You're lucky if you have nice librarians willing to have a chat about books.

>130 mckait: one of my local libraries is trialling (yea right, it'll so happen eventually) a self check out ONLY system. Basically there is only one tiny desk where an actual person is. and there are a row of 6 self check out terminals. Not very friendly if you ask me. But is is fast, Ill say that.

>132 Deern: they all look like your usual lethargic municipal employees
Shame, our librarians always seem helpful and interested and interesting .

I guess self-checkouts are the wave of the future for libraries. It's strange, I very rarely speak to any of the librarians anymore (and they are all really nice and helpful at my library). I order my books over the computer, go in and pluck them off the self-serve shelf and check them out with the automated machine. In and out in five minutes.

# 131 - My daughter tried to be helpful one day when she saw books waiting for me to pick up on self-serve shelf. She tried to check them out with her card and she couldn't, so I guess when you put them on reserve, they are held by your library card number.

Lynda, we have self-checkout at our library and I have to admit that I love it. The machine where you do the actual checking out is at the desk, so I still usually get to at least exchange pleasantries with the librarian (unless they are busy assisting someone else). Regarding 131's concerns about someone swiping another patron's book: if I have put a book on hold, the system knows that book is reserved for me and it won't let another soul check it out. I guess Judy got to that comment before me. :-)

I adore maple syrup, maple cookies, maple bars, maple anything. The tapping and bottling and such sounds like a real advantage of living where you do. Do you keep and use all the bottles of syrup?

I'm so sorry to hear that your mom has to have more treatments, Lynda. Darn. Twenty of them. Yikes, that is a lot. I hope they are effective!!!

I'm just catching on that you're watching "West Wing." Is the series new to you or are these re-watches? I loved that series when it was on and I've occasionally thought about going back and watching it again. CJ develops very nicely (when you get to the "woot canal" episode, you're in for a treat), as do most of the other characters. I still want Jed for my President.

#16-2012
The Last Gunfight: The Real Story of the Shootout at the O.K. Corral-And How It Changed the American West


Jeff Guinn
2011
Audio
5/5

I listened to it now because………………………Several years ago I drove through Arizona, specifically, Scottsdale, Tucson and Tombstone. Ever since, I have had a deep desire to know more about the history of this area and the historical figures which shaped the Southwest.

Book Blurb……………………..I truly enjoyed the audio version of this book. Although it takes the majority of the, I believe it was, twelve disks to recreate the circumstances which brought the Earp brothers, Doc Holliday and the Clanton’s together for that fateful day at the OK Corral it was well worth the wait. The roles of cowboys, prostitutes and lawmen are thoroughly explained. The need for adventure and the thrill of finding a gold or silver strike paved the way for all those who sought to find a better way of life, others were drawn to the West to leave behind the oppressive form of government East of the Mississippi. I was drawn into this story by the huge amount of research Guinn obviously applied to this retelling.

Would I recommend it?.......................Absolutely,
I believe those who have read Doc by Mary Doria Russell would enjoy this informative book as well.

My academic library has just introduced self-scanning - and when I approach the counter anyway, the librarians usually give me the evil eye. (Such is the obscurity of my tastes that I've generally found a book missing a barcode, or which isn't even in the catalogue - so they have to interact with me - mwuh-ha-ha!)

But the local library I use is well-staffed by hands-on librarians who love to chat.

#129 Hi calm! The docs say they wouldn't be continuing with the hyperbaric if it weren't working so I guess it's a good thing.
Truthfully, I don't like self-serve anything. First it was gas, then I had to pick out my own donuts, now it's library books. No wonder I feel so frenzied at times.

#130 I really don't mind waiting, Kath. I waited till I was 32 to get married, 38 till I had a baby, I'm cool with it. Now that the weather is getting nicer I'm going to stores etc instead of waiting around the hospital.

#131 That's funny, Faith. I was thinking the same thing. Someone will take my books or I'll check out and feel as if I were stealing. As I get older I'm not liking change so much.

#132 Most librarians I've come across are nice, Nathalie, others are a bit odd, no unusual is a better word. As I was waiting in line to pick up my holds today the little boy in front of me was having a tantrum and laying on the floor, not moving for anyone or anything. It is times such as these that I would like self check out.

#133 Megan, it appears to me that self check out is becoming an epidemic world wide! Where is the cure!?

#134 Well, on the bright side, Judy, it looks like I'll be able to play librarian. I'd like to do that.
I'm glad you mentioned that your daughter couldn't retrieve your books. It's comforting to know my holds will be there when I come for them.

#135 I just had a thought, Ellen. Here's the upside of not getting your holds from the librarian, they can't ask you if you want to pay your fine. Ha, ha. I'm beginning to like this self checkout idea more and more.
We give some of our syrup to neighbors, family and a few old co-workers. The rest we keep for ourselves. At one point, my husband wanted me to make maple candy. Nope, I would not be suckered into that project. No way.
I've started watching West Wing because it came up during a discussion about Rob Lowe's memoir. So having never watched it I'm now working my way through the DVD's and find that they are very, very good. You're right the woot canal episode was a hoot. But I'm still trying to figure out The Jackel song. I didn't get it. The character's are great, the dialog is top notch and the storylines are strong.

I've abandoned any attempt to listen to the audio version of Brian Greene's Fabric of the Cosmos. Although it sounds very interesting, much is lost when you're trying to listen intently and drive at the same time. Perhaps I'll pick up the book some time and scribble notes in it and hi-light the good stuff.

So on returning that to the library, I've picked up Dr. Ozzy by Ozzy Osbourne. Thank goodness he is not reading or I'd never understand any of it. So far, it's pretty good.

Just two and a half hours till Friday! So have a great day everybody!

#137 Oops, Liz, we cross posted. Hurrah for well - staffed hands on librarians. Soon they may appear on extinct or threatened species posters. *sigh*

Forgot to mention, I finally saw my doctor about those flutters I was getting in the summer. Still get them occassionally but not as often. She did an ekg, said no sign of palpitations but lay off the caffeine, having no more than 2 cups of coffee a day and try not to be so stressed. ha ha ha ha ha. ha ha ha haha. yeah right.

x-rays of tailbone which gracefully hit the ground on my first attempt at x-country skiing and hip that's been a little painful since I made a New's Resolution begin yoga again.

Hi Lynda- Good review of The Last Gunfight. I had not heard of this one but it sounds really good. If you can remember, I was a huge fan of Doc.

I remember, Mark. I purchased Doc after reading your review as well as Kath's. Unfortunately, it languishes on my bookshelf.

{{{Linda}}}

Hugs for you all day long, everyday
you have sooo much on your plate
cover it all with real maple syrup (hehehe)

No caffeine? ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
No stress? ditto

One day x-country skiing - as I started out - I fell right away.
A man went sailing by, looked down at me and said "Maybe you should take lessons?"
*heavy sigh*

Oh Poor Cee! Getting "the look" as well as the comment re: lessons :(

Lynda- tailbone and hip injuries, youch. Will they really give you an xray for a hip that is "a little painful"? Or are you underselling the pain for us? Not trying to be rude, just pondering the potential differences in medical assessment. Here you have to work hard to get an xray.

Yup, "ha ha ha ha ha. ha ha ha haha. yeah right" was my reaction to "no more than 2 cups of coffee a day and try not to be so stressed", too.

I love my self-service checkout. It means that when I'm pressed for time, I can zoom in, grab the books, check 'em out and be back home within 5 to 10 mins, max. I don't need to worry about having to be in a line behind people who don't have the right ID to get a library card, who are arguing about fines, etc. It also frees up the librarians to actually chat about books, instead of just process them. They sit at an oval desk immediately facing the entrance, so I can instantly see if Ms. H (who calls me sweetheart and tries to give me cookies) is there, or any of the "kids" (a couple of younger guys who are really pleasant & helpful). If I want to chat about a book I've just read, I can go over and do that, or I can wave and just get on with it. They never seem to be just hanging out; here's lots for them to do, and they aren't cutting back on the # of people. I think it's a more efficient use of their time, in many ways -- as long as we don't start seeing attempts to cut back on 'real' librarians follow the new technology. So far, that hasn't happened. (It's been about four months since the library reopened with the new technology.) And the electronic system won't let you check out the book if it's not on your card.

Lynda... do you follow MDR on FB? You should. She is a hoot for one othing..
and she is doing work with Smile train in connection with the book Doc AND there is going to
be a tv show !

I am with you on self serve anything.. self check out etc. It means someone who used to have that job no longer does.. Airlines, groceries, now libraries... and you are right, donuts!

I have ranted before about our nasty librarians in this town.
No matter, though. Our libraries don't have much anyway.
And frankly, the drums have pretty much scared me off.
Although, I did talk to my niece about letting me take Oliver there
once a week... for story hour. I don't know if she will allow it .. she is thinking about it.
Of courset everything is on hold until her wound heals and other family stuff settles down a bit.

I admire your ability to wait. I do.

A second for the recommendation of The Last Gunfight. I liked it quite a lot last year when I read it.

Lynda, I bet those self-checkouts are programmed to know if you owe money on overdue books and won't let you check out more books until you clear your debt. Or even worse, they turn into a extra loud siren and everybody in the library knows you have library fines to clear!

I admit I'm happy with the self-check-out at my library. Holds are on an open shelf (same restrictions, it won't walk out with someone else). The main librarians are on the main floor at their desk, ready for any visits or questions. There is always one at the desk by the door where the check out is. Friendly and happy to help anyone who can't or chooses not to work the self-check out.

As a former librarian, I'm not entirely sure how they keep a good eye that each book that walks out of there was checked out. Before the self-check out, the library had to carry your books past the alarm system. Now, with books on the sales tables, and self-check out available on the main floor and also on another floor, I just don't see any control at all possible. I'm sure it was discussed and apparently accepted.

What? Doc languishes on your book shelf? Did I hear that correctly? You need to pull that bad boy down, pronto!

Enjoyed catching up on 9 days posts Lynda as I have been snowed under recently (not the best adjective possibly for tropical Kuala Lumpur but still). Would love any libraries at all irrespective of lending arrangements but I don't have any.
The Last Gunfight looks just down my Corral if you see what I mean.

Have a lovely weekend.

I have to agree with Mark, Doc is a wonderful read, and hope you get to it soon..
it is interesting, entertaining and well... by MDR so that is always a plus!
How did the big maple project go? is it finished for the year? No more tapping?

Lynda
I love hearing about tapping the syrup! It sounds like such a lovely tradition!

Self check out for books? Oh, no....Part of why I love going to the library is to chat with the lovely librarians who are now my friends.

I read Inside Out and Back Again when it was designated as a Newbery honor for this year. It was not one of the stellar Newbery's (in my opinion), but like you, I recommend it.

Happy Saturday to you.

Oh my, I see I have some catching up to do. I loves my visitors!! :0)

#142 Ooooo, Cee did that accomplished skier at least give you a hand?
My son had a few lessons in school and stayed on his feet quite well but like you fell as soon as I stood up. Then, realized the only way to get up was to take off a ski. I enjoyed the hot cocoa back at the lodge afterward.

#143 Yeah Megan, it's pretty easy to get a x-ray around here. It's not so easy getting the results from my doctor or the remedy :(

#144 Liz, I'd be quite happy to take my coffee/caffeine intraveneously if I could. I've been drinking decaf and my days are not the same, in fact, I'm not remembering them. Must be the constant sleep walking.

#145 I can see the upside to self checkout, Suzanne, really I do, but the Dowager Duchess Granthan in me believes there are other people paid to do that kind of work.

#146 I do follow MDR on facebook, Kath. Seems she's writing a new book. Do you know anything about that?

#147 Hi Jim, Glad you enjoyed The Last Gunfight as well, that puts me in good company.

#148 LOL, Judy that would be down right embarrasking!

#149 Interesting that the holds are past the alarm system, Laura. I wonder how long that will last.

#150 I hang my head in shame, Mark! Now would be a good time to sckooch it up a bit.

#151 No libraries, Paul?!! Oh the pain of it but hey your beaches and bookstores will surely see you through.
I hope you find The Last Gunfight. I'll bet that you'll enjoy it.

#152 Thursday's syrup production went pretty well. Produced a little over 3 gallons. We'll probably do one more batch Sunday.

#153 I agree Linda, I love chatting with librarians and some offer great insights into what's new others meh.
But I'm usually never in a hurry when I walk into a library and often linger even when I try not to.

Sooooo, it's Saturday! Yeah! Have a lovely weekend everyone. It's a cold but sunny start to the day here and only going to get better tomorrow.

Hi Lynda. Just stopping by. I hope these extra treatments do the trick for your Mom and give you the opportunity for some good reading. I went to thumb your review of The Last Gunfight yesterday but didn't see it. Will have to check again after I post this message. It sounds like a great companion read to Doc which I have patiently sitting on my bookshelf.

Hope you have a great weekend and a good time tapping (is that the right terminology?) tomorrow.

Lynda, lol about the fine-paying issue. When I self-check out a book, it tells me that I have a fine due, but it still lets me check out my books. I assume that would not be the case if I owed a ton of money.....

I have Doc on hold and I suspended it until May 15. Maybe we could do a shared read in May. We can try to think of a TIOLI challenge for which it will fit.

#155 Hi Pat! Good to see you here. I don't post my reviews as often as I used to but thanks for the thought of thumbing.
Me thinks today will be the last day for tapping. The forcast indicates that although daytime temps will be in the 50's and 60's, evening temps will be well above freezing wich the sap needs in order to run.

#156 Hey Ellen, Assuming you felt alot of loose change in your pocket and wanted to pay a fine would you then need to go to the main desk? Or perhaps there is a self serve slot for payments? Better yet, I'd like to pay with a credit card.
-----------------
In other news: Will rec'd his ACT results in the mail the other day and for a 7th grader, not all that bad, a score of 17 out of a possible 36 puts him in the middle with lots of learning still to come. He's strongest in History with English, Math and Science following close behind. All in all, it was a great experience for him.

Today is selection Sunday for NCAA brackets! and if that's not a sure sign of spring this weeks temps are going to be phenomenal!

Still reading The Winter of our Discontent - but I'm not sure why, the story takes place in the spring? And was it only one winter that there was discontentment or should it have been call "The Winter(s) of our discontent"?

Had a nice night out with the BFF's at Cheesecake Factory. I had some Chinese/Mexican dish - that was unusual but oh so yummy and peach Bellini's! I can not get enough!!

Till later and a review of Shockaholic by Carrie Fisher and The Wall:Growing up Behind the Iron Curtin a GN by Peter Sis.

And my Kindle is broken, won't charge, screen frozen with Virginia Woolf's likeness.

Yeah! Kindle on line chat help me solve my problem and it is up and running again.

Lynda actually that is an excellent point about the Steinbeck - winter doesn't feature at all in the story does it? Allegoric as it may be he could have thrown in a few snow and hail storms to pep it up a bit.

Good point, Paul, allegorically speaking it seems to be a cold and brutal time in Ethan's life.

Glad to hear your ECG was clear and your kindle has recovered ok Lynda.

"try not to be so stressed" - oh sure, that's easy! Bah!

Heather, I'm sorry to say I don't even remember what normal and unstressed felt like. Maybe a nice cold beer will remind me. MGD's anyone?

The sap is flowing like crazy today. Right now we've got some boiling away. It's 61 degrees and sunny! Woot.

>136 Carmenere: Loved your review!

Do NOT love your stress levels...{{{Lynda}}}

/delurk

Chinese/mexican from a cheesecake place? Now my palate is very confused :)

#163 Hugs back at cha, Richard. You loved my review?! Shucks, I am speechless. *smooch*

#164 Here it is Megan. Believe me, I was just as confused but the crispyness of the eggroll mixed surprisingly well with the mexican flavor. I want more!

I've had the Mexican egg rolls too. They're awesome. Especially with a mojito. And red velvet cheesecake!

Oh, my now I am hungry.

Yum.

Lynda, you do make an interesting point about the winter/spring focus (in fact, in Part 2, he very eloquently describes the months of June and July in his little bayside town). But the word "discontent" comes up numerous times throughout the novel, so I assumed that was the part he cared about..... I feel like I need to read Richard III again.... or once. I don't think I've ever read it although I'm sure I've seen it on stage.

Hmm, yes Richard III - never seen it, never read it all the way through, despite knowing bits like "made glorious by this summer sun of york". Guess I read Daughter of Time too young!

Suz - of course that very phrase starts ....Now is the winter of our discontent.... but if I'm not mistaken continues "made glorious summer by this sun of York" and not quite as you've quoted. Very apt for the Steinbeck we are discussing of course but not sure how, other than taking the title from its pages, Steinbeck makes further use of the play or its themes?

LOL -- good catch, Paul!! That's what happens when you think you know a phrase that has been quoted to death... And of course, W. Shakespeare, arch-punster, had some fun in there, too.

As an arch Yorkist I was horrified to be doing Richard III for my A Level English lit but nevertheless swotted up on it over the summer only to learn that the school had issued a typo and put an extra "I" and we were left with Richard II - historically not much better treated by WS - but we had the beauty of John O'Gaunt bedridden pearls of wisdom instead. His description of England resonating throughout the ages ...This precious stone set in the silver sea, this sceptered isle.." Makes me just a little bit homesick occasionally.

Yes, that is one of my fave bits of Shakespeare -- hands down. Although I have other choice tidbits, slightly modified, ready to begin my next thread when the time comes.

I look forward as always to reading what you place at the top of your threads Suz.
Hi Lynda - sorry to have hijacked your thread a tad - a least I'm not guilty for #173/174

Oh dear Lynda.. I am so sorry. I have gotten so far behind. Maybe this will will be better?
I hope all is well ? :) It looks like you were sappy again ? What a great family project that is.
Unstressed. I don't remember it either. It is something I want to learn about. My daughter seems
to think that I can just decide not to be stressed. So far that hasn't worked :P

#166 Hey Jim, At first those egg rolls were a bit spicy for me but after 1 or 2 my tongue was numb and I could have easily consumed another 10. :P

#167 Head on over to your nearest Cheesecake Factory, Linda. Pronto!

#168 I haven't read Richard III either, Ellen. Just downloaded it into my Kindle for future reading. I didn't buy it, so I didn't break my BBB. It was free!

#169 - Hi Suzanne and Paul! thanks for continuing the conversation in my absence. Hope you grabbed some "Peeks" from the bowl on the table. They came from Ethan's grocery store, but don't tell Marullo.

BTW: I'm racking my brain to see what connection if any Ethan Allen, the patriot has in common with Ethan Allen Hawley.

#177 Well, Kath, I started my day with "Stress Buster" yoga poses and made a cup of instant decaf coffee, BLAH! It fizzes like a science experiment.
Perhaps your daughter will think differently when she's in her 50's. In any case, I do hope she has a stress free life.

No hyperbaric today. I have my own appointment to attend to. Pulmonary guy, Dr. Liu. Appt is for 3:30 I'll be lucky if he arrives before 4:45! He's at same hospital as hyperbaric but there is no way I'd drive mom home only to drive back to the same place. And I couldn't have her wait cause God knows how long the wait will be. Dr. Liu is the sweetest doctor I've ever met and it's no wonder that we all sit patiently for him. Steinbeck's coming with me.

License Bureau and grocery's round out the day.
Have a fun day, everybody

Lynda wishing both you and Steinbeck a successful visit to Dr. Liu.

Hope that all goes well for you today. Enjoy Mr Steinbeck:) I still have to open this month's read:(

You mentioned over in the 12 in 12 that you had lost me - I'm here http://www.librarything.com/topic/132388

Hope your appointment goes well..
too bad the day off from hyperbaric does not mean
a day off from driving ..

Well, the picture looks great, maybe its a bit too "fusion" for NZ right now, apparently we have a traditional attitude to food. Not in the cities, but some farmers pretty much just eat meat (off the farm) and three kinds of veges (from the garden) and that's that.
I like yours better :)

#179 Hi there, Paul! All is okie dokie. Doc saw me at 5:00 pm not at 3:30, my appt time. But I can't help but like this guy.

#180 Thanks for your link, calm. I accidently clicked on ignore, that's why I lost you. Big fingers and an iTouch just don't mix.

#181 Did more driving today than I thought I needed to, Kath. I'm requesting a Lynda day of rest but when that will be scheduled, I'm not sure.

#182 Hi Megan, Fresh meat and veggies sound like a healthy diet but I'm not a big carnivorous person so I guess I'll be hanging out in the city should I ever be in your neck of the woods.

Hear ye, Hear ye, at the risk of embarrassing myself royally here are my Final Four picks for the NCAA playoffs
Indiana - Michigan - Wisconsin - Kansas = Championship to Michigan
My sons choices:
Duke - Missouri - Ohio St - San Diego = Championship to OSU

ETA: After hearing of Syracuse Center being disqualified I changed my final for to include Wisconsin instead of Syracuse.

#17-2012
Shockaholic

Carrie Fisher
2011
Audio
3.5/5

I listened to it now because………………….who doesn’t like Princess Leia?

Book Blurb…………………….Oh, no! Here we go again, another book about a celebrity’s hard luck story and desperate cry for help. But wait! After the initial chapters which pertain to Ms. Fisher’s experiences with shock therapy, she shares some great life experiences and insight into her friendships with Michael Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor and her father, crooner Eddie Fisher. The audio turns out to be quite entertaining after all.

Would I recommend?....................Guardedly. You need to enjoy the world of entertainment to get into this one.

me me me! I mean, I don't dislike Princess Leia..but she wasn't my favorite.
She seemed a bit prima donna like to me :)

I saw here on something.. I think the Joy Behar Show, When joy had a show on HLN.
It sounded like it would be what you in fact, saw in it.. sorry :(

She seemed a bit prima donna like to me :)

Well, Kath, remember she was the daughter of Queen Amadala!

Seriously, it must be about the money. Why else would these celebrities bare all in not so meaningful memoirs?

Hi Lynda! Many apologies for being so far behind. To bring closure to my last comment and your question (waaaaay up there 142/154), NO! The idiot did not offer to help me up. And it's a good thing. He had a head start to get away.

I'm thinking, real readers are the only ones who don't mind waiting for a doctor. I actually get annoyed when they are on time and I don't get a chance to do any reading.

You definitely *NEED* a "Lynda-day off". You should plan one. See if someone else can take over for you one day and do something you really enjoy! Think about it!

How in the world did I get so behind Lynda?? Well I'm caught up now. To summarize: please do read Doc w/o further delay, maple trees are being tapped around here too and everybody says it's going to be a banner year, Oh no, more treatments for Mom? I've had the Mexican egg rolls at Cheesecake factory and they are delish, I only "request books" from our very small library so I've never used the self check out. There now I will vow to stay caught up.

I'm thinking, real readers are the only ones who don't mind waiting for a doctor.
I've noticed that in a waiting room I am always the only one with a book and I am glad if they make me wait a bit. Everyone else is staring into space or skimming through those horrible old magazines (I am convinced that's how viruses are spread best: months old gossip magazines in waiting rooms)

I missed the whole Star Wars hype in the 70s and very early 80s and only saw the movies on DVD many years later, so for me Princess Leia was always a side character with funny hair.

I agree you need that Lynda day of rest somehow...

I agree. A Lynda day is called for.
What would work for you? Massage?
Everyone else leaving you alone in your house?
Shopping with friends, and lunch out?
or?

As for Princess Leia, true... she was..

Cee....I have never seen someone struggle that I did not offer to help..
There have been countless times that I could have used a hand, and it
has only been offered a VERY few times. I don't understand that. It just
does not compute. How can one person see another struggle with a door, a
load of any kind, or? and not reach out.

Yes... Doc ...soon.

#187 Hey Cee, lol, glad your sense of humor stayed in tact despite wallowing in the snow.
I'm working on Saturday being a jammie day and I won't mind wearing them on my deck as I read books all day. It will be 70 degrees here and I need some sun on my skin before we head off to Florida for spring break.

#188 Ok, Bonnie, I'll try to slip in Doc in April.
Yesterday we pulled the taps out of the trees and washed all the buckets and spiles. Surely, with temps in the high 60's and 70's the trees will no longer produce much sap and trees will soon bud.

#189 Nathalie, I go completely nuts if I don't have something to read and if I had to I would rather read medical brochures rather than those old germy magazines.

#190 I'll try for Saturday, Heather. The most I will do is throw steaks on the grill and put potatoes in the oven.

#191 I get massage anxiety, Kath, but a mani-pedi would be nice.

Truth be told, I was never that enamored with the whole Star Wars craze. I saw the the first movie in 1977, I think, and didn't think too highly of it. It wasn't until my son latched on to them that I've grown to respect their entertainment value. Of course, Harrison Ford, Mmm mmm mmm.

No hyperbaric activity today. Two doctor appts for mom instead. I just can't get away from white coats!

I liked the Star Wars movies..
I am more of a Star Trek fan, though... I LOVED the last Star trek movie!
I have seen it 5 times. Maybe 6?

#18-2012
The Wall: Growing up Behind the Iron Curtain

Peter Sis
2007
50 pages
3.75/5

I read it now because…………………..Mark (MSF59), my Graphic Guru who keeps my addiction to Graphic Novels supplied, recommended this book on this thread.

Book Blurb……………………..Hard to believe that it has been 23 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, even harder to believe that the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States began approximately fifty years ago. Peter Sis, author and illustrator of The Wall, realizes that soon, with the youngest generation, these days will be lost to history. He uses this venue to document this period of time growing up in Communist Czechoslovakia under the shadow of suspicion, fear, corruption and lies yet always hoping that liberty, justice and equality would not only be words but a way of life.

Would I recommend?................The illustrations are certainly not the most elaborate I’ve seen and as I am of the age to remember much of what the Iron Curtain meant not much was new to me. However, and this is a big one, I think people under the age of 25, who may take their freedoms for granted, should read this book for it clearly depicts life without music, books, art and culture.
My son, almost 13, loved it.

#193 Oh oh oh, are you talking about the one staring Chris Pine? I loved it too.

That's the one :)

So hope you manage to get that Lynda day - with no white coats:)

>195 Carmenere:/196: I just sat here for a few minutes thinking... "Nemesis??? Are they talking about Nemesis??? They CAN'T be, no one liked that one..." in bewilderment, until I remembered suddenly, oh yeah, the JJ Abrams' film! Wow... talk about a brain fart... can you tell I'm a Star Trek purist? Abrams' timeline doesn't even register in my universe. Lol.

Lynda I think Nathalie may have identified a cure for MRSM - take your own books and magazines!

Lynda, have you read others by Peter Sis? I loved Tibet: Through the Red Box.

>184 Carmenere: I found Carrie Fisher's other one.....um, what was it called again?......very lightweight and a bit silly. And it made more sense to me when I discovered that it was originally a stand up comedy routine.

#196 There is a sequel to the prequel planned, Kath. Originally set for this year it's now pushed back to accomodate Abrams' schedule.

#197 Saturday is still looking good for a Lynda Day, calm. Maybe I'll have my own personal read a thon day!

#198 I'm not a Star Trek purist, Faith. Perhaps that's why I enjoyed the prequel as much as I did. It was just fun.

#199 I normally do bring my own reading material, Paul. Just once, I forgot my book and I think I became comatose watching game shows, soap opera's and news channels. Thank goodness, being in a hospital setting, they were able to revive me.

#200 No, Ellen, I have not read anything else by Sis but I'll check my library for Tibet. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.

#201 Yeah, Megan, I think she performed that one on stage. Doesn't matter, I don't think I'll be checking out any more of hers.

Sweet dreams all.

Hi Lynda- Good review of The Wall. I'm looking forward to trying more of his work. Believe it or not, I'm taking a mini-break from GNs. I only have one at hand.

Hey Mark, I've requested Tibet: Through the Red Box from my library. I'll let you know if it's worth the looksee

ETA: I intend to finish The Winter of our Discontent today.

Lynda- I FINALLY posted on the Winter Thread. I got a late start reading it but like you, I will finish today.
You did a fantastic job hosting! I hope you do more.

Looking like great weekend weather around here, Lynda.
Hope it'll be the same for you and your special day!!!

#205 glad you finally made it to TWoOD thread, Mark.

#206 Yup, Cee, it's steaks on the grill for us on Saturday! It rarely is this nice in May so this coming week looks like a treat! Jammie Day still set for Saturday as I'll do most of the laundry today.

Alllllmost done with TWoOD. I fell asleep reading it last night so I'll finish it, for sure, this morning. Then back to finish Into the Wild.
Have a super duper friday, everyone!

Hope you have a great weekend Lynda. I'm ashamed to say that I still haven't opened The Winter of Our Discontent but there is still a fortnight to go in March and I will read it soon. Avoiding the group read thread until I read it as I'm sure that there has been a lot of chat about it and I want to make my own opinion of it. See you there before the end of the month:)

A jammie day can restore the spirit...
sounds like a good plan !

hi calm and Kath! Lynda's Saturday of rest is beginning now @ 6:55pm Friday. With book in hand wine glass within reach I'm sitting on my patio watching a beautiful sunset . Soon Venus and jupitor will be shining in the western sky. I'm relaxed already. Inhale - exhale ahhhh - g'night :o)

Have a lovely, lovely evening!

Lynda - your evening star gazing sounds poetically entrancing! Enjoy and have a lovely weekend.

#210: that sounds sooo wonderful! It'll be some more weeks until I'll be able to sit on my terrace in the evening. Have a great weekend!

Perfect beginning.. hope it is a long and peaceful weekend, filled with happy!

Today, everybody is Irish, don't ya know! So, to all my LT book buddies............
glitter-graphics.com

#211 Hi Linda, Wow, I've never, ever sat on my patio in March. Normally, I would be shoveling it. This year is just so weather weird, but I like it!

#212 It was an evening fit for June, Paul! The weekend has been very nice thus far.

#213 True here too, Nathalie. It's 2 pm on Saturday, March 17th and it's 71 degrees. Me thinks the weather gods are just playing with us then throw us the mother of all blizzards when we least expect it.

#214 To the brim happy, Kath. Read in bed this morning and finished The Winter of Our Discontent. What an incredible book! I'm surprised how meh it was until the last chapters and all of a sudden, bam, I loved it. Watched two episodes of The West Wing. Yikes, how they fire the quick paced banter. Love it! Took a very relaxing walk. After this I'll take Into the Wild outside and try to finish it up.

Two reviews forthcoming, but today I'm off. 1. Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy and 2. The Winter of Our Discontent

have a wonderful day!

Have a wonderful day off, Lynda. Sounds like it's going great so far. I've only just started The Winter of Our Discontent but hope to finish it before the end of the March. You've done a great job hosting this month!

#194 Mark is my graphics guru too :-)

Hope you have a wonderful day off today.

Lynda - a nice graphic in #215....a blessing to you too.

So true, weather fit for June! We are enjoying it here, too..
I had my ceiling fan on last night ...

Happy to the brim is good! West Wing is good :)
I agree, I love the banter.. I should find some episodes to
watch. That was a good show.. Aaron Sorkin is a genius.
IS he doing anything now I wonder? Was the other show
called Sports Night??? I got sucked into that one too, for the same reason..

#216 Hi Pat, I'm really looking forward to what you think of TWoOD. So many mixed feelings about it.

#217 Yup, it's nice we have a graphics guru, Heather. There are so many not so good ones out there, Mark vets them for us so we can move on to the good one.

#218 Hi Paul! Hope all is well in your corner of the world!

#219 Kath, This weather is too unbelievably extraordinarily awesome!!!!! I fear we'll pay for this.
I've never watched Sports Night. It must be off the air now, yes?

Off for a morning walk, I'll try to continue LDoR as long as I can. I recommend everyone have a day every month, but then again that's what Sunday's used to be for.

Good for you, Lynda! You had your day in the stars and the sun!
Sounds very lovely :)

#221 Hi there, Cee! Oh, how I appreciate the longer days and the weird warm weather lets us enjoy the early evenings as well. This keeps up, we'll need to buy more wine.

Woot woot, who da man, who da man. I have 11 teams in the Sweet Sixteen. And OSU, Ohio U, Xavier and Cincinnati are all kicking butt. Make us proud guys!

Well, I'm not getting my kitchen renovated as yet, but from dire necessity we purchased a new dishwasher. A Maytag with stainless steel door. We hope to get the same look in our other appliances that will be needed very soon. Delivers Wednesday and a friend will hook up for us. :0)))))))

That sounds like a nice start for a new kitchen... I still haven't
even bought the paint for m mini redo... too much going on..

I have enjoyed the weather too.. to a point. It is okay when it is 70-75 ish
for a spell.. but 80F today? I agree that we will pay, but I worry that it will be
with a freakishly warm summer?

#223 I can understand you waiting to paint, Kath. It should be fun and now you've got too much on your mind.
I worry about a freakishly early and long winter. Snow in September?

Ok, now for a review........

#19-2012
Trust Me, I’m Dr. Ozzy

Ozzy Osbourne
2011
Audio
2.75/5

I listened to it now because…………………….I honestly have no idea, perhaps just curious.

Book Blurb………………………….Unbeknownst to me “The Prince of Darkness”, “The Godfather of Heavy Metal” and reality show star, Ozzy Osbourne writes an advice column in the Sunday Times and Rolling Stone Magazine. This audio book, thankfully read by British comedian Frank Skinner, is a continuation of this format. Questions of every nature are asked by various people and Ozzy offers advice, much of which he gained through his unusual life experiences and hard living but often recommends seeing your GP. To say Mr. Osbourne is a survivor would be an understatement. He’s evidence that miracles do happen and, at 62, he easily and openly talks of being free of drugs and alcohol.

Would I recommend………………….It was amusing in part, sometimes funny but most of all this is for mature audiences. So, you make the call.

#225 - Interesting! I was unaware that he wrote a column (actually, I was unaware that he had any brain cells left.) I read that Motley Crue book a few years ago, and I will always, without fail, get caught up in those VH1 Behind the Musics (e.g. this week the story of Ratt or whatever), so I understand.

I didn't know about the column either..
I like Sharon Osbourne a lot, and have watched the
show The Talk a time or two, mostly because she is on it.
I also used to watch their reality show now and then when it was on.
It was sad, and funny at times. The way the kids were being raised ( or not )
drove me crazy though! All seems to have worked out well though? ..

LDoR? Lynda's Day of Rest?

Congrats on early success in your brackets. I didn't do brackets this year, but I'm confident that they would not be looking good if I had done so.

My call is that I'll be skipping Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzie. Just a gut feeling on my part. :-)
No touchstone......

#226 Hey Kerri, It is hard to believe that Ozzy still has the wherewithal to do anything at all. He's played around with so many drugs and incidences which have left him near death. The way he talks, his wife Sharon is the person responsible for him being alive today.

#227 Kath, I might have caught a glimpse of Sharon on 'The Talk" but I've never watched the Osbourne's reality shows etc. But yes, from what I've seen, Sharon is pretty cool and looks as if she's got it all together

#228 Yup right now my brackets are pretty decent. Funny, I didn't choose an Ohio team to go any further than the Elite Eight. I thought it might jinx them, yeah, like I have that kind of power ;0}
Hope you plan for an EDoR one of these days. They're great for recharging the internal batteries.

That's it, not much to say except wishing you all a great day!

Brackets? My mind first went to the ones we use for touchstones. lol
That didn't seem right so then I was thinking hardware. I didn't see anything
that might be hardware related.. so only then did it dawn on me that you were
talking about basketball :P

Hope that your week is going smoothly and that there is still some leftover goodness
from your jammie day :)

Glad you got it kath, Im still unsure about what a bracket it in this conversation :)

Sorry Kath and Megan, I was speaking in college basketball playoffs language. All around the US, this time of year, also known as March Madness people in offices, bars, wherever two or more are gathered, they are playing/betting on the brackets. The best college teams whittle down to the the Championship game.

Here's what it looks like (hope this works)

http://outwi1.twc.com.edgesuite.net/toolbar/ncaa_brackets/brackets_2012_34.html

In other exciting news...........My new dishwasher was delivered yesterday. A friend will install tonight. Hopefully, finally, I will not have to rewash every dish, glass and fork that comes out of the dishwasher. Yippee!!!!

I should finish Into the Wild today and start Everyman, a Janet in London memorial selection.

Listening to The Quants. Mathletes and computer geeks make bazillions. When will avid readers make bazillions?!

Good day all :0)

Hi Lynda- I hope you liked Into the Wild. Is this your 1st Krakauer?

Ohhh...I want a new dishwasher.....

I hope it works perfectly!

cool! New appliances are a good thing :)

Lynda, we had to get a new dishwasher a few years ago, and I was amazed at how quiet the new models are. We have all newish stainless steel appliances now except for the built-in double ovens - that will probably never quit working because they don't get much use!

Lots of BB excitement in Ohio. It's great that you have four teams in the Sweet Sixteen. At least I think I got that right. We watched lots of basketball in Texas. My DIL went to KU so I'd better root for them. It was nice of Missouri to lose right away so I don't have a conflict. ;-)

Congrats on the new dishwasher, Lynda. We got a new one a few years ago, and I was amazed at how quietly the new models run. Our appliances are newish stainless steel ones except for the old built-in double ovens. They'll probably never quit working as they don't get enough use according to my husband.

We watched lots of basketball in Texas last week end. My DIL is a KU grad so we'd better support the Jayhawks. It was nice of Missouri to lose in the first round so we don't have a conflict. ;-)
There must be BB Fever in Ohio with 4 teams in the Sweet Sixteen. At least I think I got that right?

#233 I think this is my 3rd Krakauer, Mark and the one I like the least. Under the Banner of Heaven is my favorite.

#234 Lol, I hope you get one soon, Dejah! I waited for mine along time but well worth the wait.

#235 A VERY good thing, Kath. One down, two more to go.

#236 You are so right, Donna. It purrs like a kitten. Ours is stainless steel as well and I hope to get matching frig and range sometime soon. I think they'll go well with my wishlisted white cabinets with stainless door handles.
Well, for sure one Ohio team is going home a loser tonight as OSU is playing Cincinnati.

All is lost anyway as my champion pick, Michigan, lost to Louisville.

Another gorgeous day here. 80 degrees! Gave my car a good washing inside and out.

Night all.

#20-2012

The Winter of Our Discontent
John Steinbeck
1961
311 pages
4.25/5

I read it now because…………………………it is the third selection in this year’s Steinbeckathon and also fits TIOLI Challenge #6. Read a book with a title word that is a heterograph/homonym (same pronunciation, different spelling, different meaning) (Our)

Book Blurb……………………………Ethan Hawley comes from a long line of accomplished men: pilgrims, pirates and privateers, Early Americans who had built up a sizeable estate. Ethan’s father, through some financial miscues loses a majority of the inheritance and Ethan, a college graduate and war veteran in his own right is diminished to grocery store clerk at the market his father once owned. Ethan appears jovial and content with his station in life until the promiscuous, Margie Young-Hunt reads, in her tarot cards, of an impending fortune in his wife's, Mary Hawley’s, future. The pressure is on for Ethan to return his family to the status they once enjoyed. Local business men offer lucrative ideas which may or may not be ethical and Ethan’s morals weigh in the balance. Will he succumb to what appears to have become a nation of liars and cheats or will he go for the higher moral ground?

Would I recommend……………………..Steinbeck has become one of my favorite author’s. His stories speak to our consciousness and ask us to examine ourselves. No matter how emotionally and ethically destitute his characters are there remains a glimmer of hope and rebirth. So, although not my favorite Steinbeck, I would still recommend this book simply because he makes you think.

There were 4 refrigerators ( a few of each )
on the Vine list yesterday. I almost passed out!
I clicked instantly.. but was still too late. I could
use a new frig..mine has a few issues..

I did not get one, but wow! for a second there.. the almost felt good :)
I need a new dishwasher, too. Mine is about 12 years old. It has had
some *moments* lately.. it is an under the sink model though, and costs
a fair bit more than typical models.

Glad you and Steinbeck have become such good friends :)

Lynda, this is a great review again for the Steinbeck. I like especially what you wrote in the "Would I recommend" section. He addresses something in my brain which far exceeds normal reading.

The 'purring' dishwasher sounds great. I also love stainless steel appliances. My old kitchen in Germany had those. Sadly I couldn't take them with me when I moved, as my new appartment already had a built-in kitchen - black and white glossy fronts, a nightmare when it comes to cleaning.

So here I sit on the patio @ Panera's. Beautiful day to sit here while I wait for mom at hyperbaric. Wound is .2 cm smaller today yeah still along way to go. Mmm these blueberry scones are so good.

#240 can you get a good deal on frig's through vine, Kath? If you're lucky enough to get one do you have to write a review on it? Bad joke,huh?

#241 Hey Nathlie, I think Steinbeck is one of those authors I can really sink my teeth into. There is so many different directions his writing can take me.
You're review is better:0)

Scone is all gone, so I'll head back. Nice here but Joe's Cafe is abit nicer. Probably the personal attention the propieter gives you there.

So, although not my favorite Steinbeck, I would still recommend this book simply because he makes you think. I couldn't agree more. And, I am also now counting Steinbeck as one of my favorite authors!

Congrats on the new dishwasher, Lynda. I hope it's one of the quiet ones, as well as one that will actually clean your dishes!

#242 It's been a lovely day to sit out in the sun here too Lynda. Did you get some good reading done?

#243 In a test run, it seems pretty quiet, Ellen. Haven't given it a truly messy batch of dishes so the jury's still out.

#244 No, realy not much reading, Heather. I was playing with the android version of iPad which my son and hubsters bought me. It's got B&N loaded on it but I'm not sure if I can get iTunes.

Here's a quick diversion for you fans of the Hunger Games.
www.hungernames.com

I'm Fulvia Scrabblerod. I was a tribute in the 11th Hunger Games and zapped by electrocution. Yowch!

Hi Lynda, hasn't this beautiful weather been just, I don't know, wonderful? I guess it'll be downhill now but still well above normal. Lucky you with a new dishwasher. We could use one but I don't see it happening any time soon I'm afraid. Lovely review of Winter of Our Discontent. I'm going to read one or two Steinbeck's this year, probably The Grapes of Wrath and Travels with Charley.

HI Lynda! I am Valerian Wackadoodle, I was a tribute from District 6 in the 35th Hunger Games. Unfortunately I was killed by eating a poison apple.

Congrats on the new dishwasher! I have a brand new one sitting here but I'm still washing dishes by hand because Nate can't figure out how to hook it up yet. Maybe tomorrow ...

#245 Looks like fun!

Your name is
Abadia Gristlechew

Congratulations! You had the honor of being a District 9 tribute in the 1st Hunger Games!

You were killed by trying to escape.

LOL #245 is fun. I am Cray Treefit, Tribute from District 3 in the 41st Hunger Games. I was killed by thinking that the dog wouldn't bite!

That sounds like me, my mother was always warning me away from approaching unknown dogs.

TWooD- is one for me I'd say. Im Steinbeck-a-thon-ing without actually doing the Steinbeck-a-thon!

Stopping by and waving hi. Speaking of March madness....Yeah for Lehigh. Who would have thought they would beat Duke. The students were so darn excited last week. Many actually met the team at 3:00 a.m. when they returned to campus from NC.

#246 It's been a phenomenal winter, Bonnie! The flowering trees are gorgeous this year. I'd like all winters to be this way, but I wonder how that would effect everything. I know it would have a positive effect on me!!

#247 It's so good to see you posting again, Ms. Wackadoodle.
I give Nate a lot of credit for attempting to install the dishwasher. Hope your house isn't like ours where when you fix one thing two other problems are found. Good luck.

#248 Just think about it, Heather, being in the 1st Hunger Games would be terrifying.

#249 Judy, LoL at your LoL

#250 Whatever works for you , Megan, the important thing is you're enjoying discovering this author.

#251 That must have been a great experience for Lehigh, Linda. It's refreshing to see the Goliath's brought to their knees unless of course the Golilath is OSU. ;0)

Speaking of which OSU has moved to the Final Four! They'll play N Carolina or Kansas. A good match up either way. Go Bucks!

As for the warm winter... our local natural gas supplier wants a rate increase..
poor babies did not make a mint this past year, as they did the year before. I hope
they don't get it :( What a world we live in.. Corporate entitlement.. ? seriously?
I did enjoy the warmer winter, too.. but I fear we will pay for it with more bugs and
who knows what all :(

hmmm.. basketball not over yet? boo!
( sorry)

"...simply because he makes you think..."
So, that's why he's a fav of mine! He makes me think...
Steinbeck has always been a favorite, but I still have more of him to read... incl TWoOD! Nice Review, Lynda :-)

ETA: Thistle Dundermifflin

Congratulations! You had the honor of being a District 9 tribute in the 1st Hunger Games!

You were killed by eating raw Jabberjay.

I know nothing about Hunger Games yet... so, I'll have to read the book to find out :)

#253 our local natural gas supplier wants a rate increase..
poor babies did not make a mint this past year, as they did the year before GRRRRRR, this makes me so mad, Kath! The same thing happened to us a couple years back when we had a rainy summer. The water company wanted to increase prices, because water consumption was down due to all the rain and people didn't need to sprinkle their lawns, flowers and veggies. Ha! You don't see them lower rates in times of draught!!!! GRRRRRR

#254 Awe, Cee/Thistle! You ought to know better than to eat raw Jabberjay. I haven't heard of anyone being a winner in any of the 50 odd Hunger Games, What gives?

I finished Into the Wild the other day and bumped into a man wearing a t-shirt w/ Nome, Alaska printed on it. I asked him about his trip etc etc. He hadn't read the book so I gave him my copy. I think he'll find it interesting.

Finished The Quants on audio today and started
Da Vinci's Ghost so two reviews to type up, but that will have to wait till tomorrow. Night All!