(Bahzah) Cee's May Meandering

THE WORLD NEEDS MOMS!

Books read in 2012:
* indicates BOTS (Does NOT incl ER books)
JANUARY
#1 The Tiger by John Vaillant (4.25 stars)
#2 The Elephant's Journey by Jose Saramago (4.5 stars)*
#3 Cannery Row by John Steinbeck (4.5 stars)
#4 Wheat Belly by William Davis (4 stars)
#5 Big Miracle by Tom Rose (3.5 stars)
#6 Cake Wrecks by Jen Yates (3 stars)
#7 Sarah's Key by Tatiana deRosnay (2.5 stars) *
#8 Blizzard of Glass by Sally Walker (4 stars)
#9 Ex Libris by Anne Fadiman (4.5 stars) *

FEBRUARY
#10 The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson (4.25 stars) *
#11 The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman (4.5 stars) *
#12 The Wayward Bus by John Steinbeck (4.3 stars)
#13 The Subtle Knife by Philip Pullman (4.5 stars)*
#14 The Siege by Helen Dunmore (5 stars)
#15 The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman (4.5 stars) *
#16 The Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer's Care by Virginia Bell (3.5 stars)

MARCH
#17 The Owl Service by Alan Garner (3 stars)
#18 Little Chapel on the River: A Pub, a Town and the Search for What Matters Most by Gwendolyn Bounds (4 stars) *
#19 A Dog Year by Jon Katz (4 stars) *

APRIL
#20 River of Doubt by Candice Millard (4.5 stars)
#21 Sea of Poppies by Amitav Ghosh (4.5 stars)
#22 The Moon is Down by John Steinbeck (4 stars)
#23 Overseas by Beatriz Williams (3.5 stars)
#24 The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh (4.8 stars) *
#25 Iron and Silk by Mark Salzman (4 stars)

MAY
#26 Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen (3.8 stars) *
#27 A View of the Harbour by Elizabeth Taylor (4 stars)
#28 The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
(3.5 stars)
#29 The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce (4.5 stars)

Checking into the latest installment Cee!

Welcome, Paul!
You are Number 1

What an adorable picture! Happy New Thread, Claudia.

Love the mergansers - they look like ducks with attitude! Nice new thread, Cee!

Hi Mamie! I know, huh? The Mom looks like she could use a break! :)

Oh... missed you there, Pat!
Thanks! You get the silver medal ;-)

#26 Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen 3.8 stars



This was a re-read from a very long time ago... like... high school.
My RL book club read it - many for the first time.
I enjoyed it again!

Hi Claudia- Like the new May thread, love the baby ducks!

Hey, Mark! Hope you had a great, albeit short, weekend.

This is the time of year for Mother ducks to teach their babies about their world - it's soooo cute to watch ;-)
I love it :)

Actually, this was my long weekend. It was very nice but now I'm looking at 6 straight. Boo!

Hi, Cee. Love the picture!

eta to fix typo -- that's "love" the picture!

Huh, Mark? Did I lose a whole week? Thought this was your short weekend.
Well, then - glad you are ready to take on six! :PPP

Hi Terri - yeah. I do a lot of spying on nature at this time of year... love the babies making their appearance now.

I had a typo there . . . I can't seem to type straight tonight. I think you know what I meant . . .

Hi Cee,
love your pic, and the message :)
Following along with you gladly again for a new thread

No problem, Terri. I did know - cuz I'm so smart :-}

Welcome. Megan. Love having you along for the ride!
Hopefully this thread will be nothing but joy and lots of reading.

OMG, I adore that picture at the top of your new thread, Cee. Love it. It's a merganser with her babies, yes?
Moms are so important, and this is a time of much change in your relationship with your mom, Cee. I lost mine when I was but 22 years old, and it was a relief at the time, and still I miss her presence in my life. I hope you continue to navigate your process with your mom with grace and compassion -- for her and for yourself!

Cee, Your opening picture is such a lovely tribute to mom's (of all kinds) everywhere. Have a wonderful day!

Agree.. The world needs moms. Sorry I missed your change over till now..
Your RL book club read it for the first tone? yeesh!

So, what will you be doing with yourself today?

Ellen - Yes... and thanks. "Navigate" is an excellent choice of words for this process. Wish I had a map :)
Sorry that you lost your Mom at such an early age. My Dad died when I was 14. That too was a relief - but I've always wondered about how nice it would be to have had a Dad through all these years.

Lynda - I just love the look of exasperation on the mommy duck - LOL
Like - too many kids and a bad hair day :{
Still, like a good mom - she carries on...

Kath - Today... shopping with Mom for things she will need. I need to make a list. This won't be much fun, but we should be able to have a nice lunch out at least.

What a GORGEOUS day - if the whole summer was like this I would be very pleased. Sunny, 58, breezy, and the sound of the surf is huge! (must be that supermoon thing)

What a dear photo!

Hi Lucy! - gotta check for any new Posey photos????

What a great photo!

Hi Cee: Nice new thread. I always like to look at the growing lists of books at the top of the threads. You've read some great books this year. It reminds me I've always meant to read Philip Pullman (haven't gotten to him yet) and The Language of Flowers sounds like one to add to my list. And....these threads are so dangerous.

What an adorable picture up top Cee. For everyone who loved Cee's review of The Language of Flowers...its an ER giveaway this month.

Cute duckies, Cee.... too funny. I didn't know mama ducks gave piggy-back rides.

Must have been a long day... hope it was good, too.

Hi Cee, another fan of the cute pic! I've seen skunks give their babies rides like that but not ducks. Maybe because we don't have Mergansers. We do have four cygnets in our pond. I hope the Mama and Daddy swans can keep them away from the snapping turtles!

I hope you had a successful shopping day today. I look forward to more joy and book talk on your newest thread.

Love the pic up top Cee! Hope you had a great day!

So, what did ya buy? Anything for Cee, or did you confine your purchases to mom?

Where did you have lunch? Was it good?

catch us up!

Hi Linda, Beth, Bonnie, Caro, Kath, Donna, and Joanne!

I can see I'm gonna have trouble keeping up on LT this week. Thanks for visiting me - nice to see notes on my thread :)

The mommy duck rides don't last long... but they are so cute. Just drumming up a little appreciation for moms...

Beth, I put off reading the Pullman books for too long myself. They were a fun read for me.
And yes, Bonnie, I noticed Language of Flowers is on the ER list this month. Thanks for mentioning. I would rec trying for it!

Well, Caro. Now you know just about everything! LOL

Kath, I used to be a black-belt shopper. I have slowed down - but sheesh! Mom is definitely sloooooooow. I hate to tire her out... so it took a long time and we got very little really accomplished. Had lunch at Applebee's - another excruciatingly slooooow experience. When I want to get things done I hate farting around. :PPPPP~~~ 'nuff said. Next time I go myself.

Donna, I did not know about skunk rides! I just hate to think of them having babies... but that must be cute too. ;-)

Thanks, Joanne. Today will be better than yesterday. Still have things to get for Mom - but Ron is a very quick shopper! With him it's in and out!

I'm still reading A View of the Harbour and I'm liking it a lot. Strange (to me) characters that need to get a life... which seems easier said than done under the circumstances.
It's hard for me to imagine a little run-down town by the sea, but I'm getting the picture. Can't even imagine how this will end - perhaps it doesn't and everyone just kind of fades into the mist.

Hi Claudia!! Just checking up on you. :-}

My sister is a black belt shopper...
Not me. But I admit that if I have to shop..having her along is helpful.

View of the Harbour sounds nice..

Hopefully nothing on the agenda for me today..
I ended up weeding in the evening yesterday, so my big plan for today is
to try my had at making pizza...

any suggestions? A friend gave me a crust recipe... fingers crossed..

Morning, Cee! I used to be a black belt shopper, too. Now most of the time I just like to get what I need and get out, unless of course I am in a book store! I also really hate trying to shop with someone else, as I just want to go at my own pace.

Kath - Let me know how that pizza turns out. I would love a good crust recipe.

Sorry, Cee - it's been raining for three days here, no new pix and I really want a good outdoor one. I may have to give up and comb through my older photos and see if I can find anything!

Hi all,
Misty, foggy, rainy, dreary... beautiful day today!

More errands today - interview with nurse at Sunnybrook and find gifts for Mother's Day (Sun) and Ron's birthday(Mon). Wish I had a money tree around here.
Well, I DO have one but it doesn't work. It's a plant that supposedly if you stroke the leaves everyday you will get money. I did that when I first got it and all that happened was we got unexpected expenses - no money! Now I'm afraid to touch it. Have thought about throwing it out - but it's growing and I don't want to get it upset.

Hi Tammy!!! Thanks for stopping by :)

Kath, Making pizza throws me into a frenzy. It is just not possible to please my crowd. One doesn't like cheese or meat. One doesn't like veggies or seafood. I just don't bother going to all that work. Pizza is a night out for Ron and myself where we can order what we want.

Hi Mamie, I find I don't do well shopping with others anymore. If I go with the kids, I just buy stuff for them. If I go with Ron, I feel pressured to move along. If I go with Mom, it's like babysitting. Can't let her out of my sight and she tires easily. The only problem I'm left with when I go myself now is my conscience... Do I really need it? Should I spend the money? Have to hurry home to do whatever else... Don't really enjoy it much anymore. Had to turn in my black belt!

OK, Lucy, I guess the new baby is being assimilated into normal family life now and pictures will be fewer. Give Posey a hug from me :) Stay dry!

View of the Harbour - characters are getting - umm - can't find the right word. What a sorry lot! Good book though. I love the way she's writing.

So now we must have a picture of the money tree I think? So we know what to avoid :)
For years my sister's idea of going out together was shopping, and only shopping. I didn't
mind if i needed something ... but she also likes to spend hours and hours at a time and eat out at least once.Way too much for me.

Weirdly.. she has not spent one single day at home all day since Walter crossed. She runs and runs and runs. Yesterday, they took a ride to Lake Erie to check out a place they may want to stay some time in the future. Weird. And ate out 2 x and complained about the weather, the food and being tired after all of that. It's like she is trying to run away from something.. I dunno. I got invited to dinner with the nephlets in her absence though ... so that was fun :) and yummy ( pancakes )

I will try to remember to take one of the pizza if it isn't too big a failure?
I am not good at food pics..

Claudia, you gotta know I LOVE to mum & ducklings picture. I walked through Westmount park yesterday when there was a bit of a reprieve from the rainfall and was hoping to spot some ducks in the pond, but didn't see any, so you've given me my fill for now.

I used to be a black belt shopper too, and I have the debts to prove it! Now I mostly limit myself to online shopping, so since there isn't all that carrying of bags all over the place, it doesn't seem like I do so much shopping, but my credit card bills tell me otherwise. Oy.

Sorry I haven't been much of a visitor lately, but I know you forgive me, right?

Big hugs. xx

So how did today go?

Did you do anything relaxing?

Fun?

Did ya buy anything? Boost the economy?

You are navigating just fine, Cee. You may not have a map, but it sounds like you're trusting your (internal) compass just fine.
Keep doing that. xo

OK. I'm cranky and want to cry... but I'm not a crier. So how do people get that pent up emotion out if they can't cry. Keep in mind, I also don't do violence. If I can get through the next week, I can do anything!

Today - went to Sunnybrook to talk with nurse supervisor and financial person. While I was gone Ron gave Mom a box and told her it was for packing up stuff on her computer station. She proceeded to empty just about everything from a storage closet in her room and dumped everythng she could in the box. When I got home, her room was a MESS! Computer station has not been touched. I'm hoping she had fun. My hair is getting thin. Oh, lawd! Have mercy.

Kath, OK. I will post a picture of that sucker - don't know it's real name. It's freaking fearful! I put it on a bookshelf - hoping if I am meant to spend money it will be on books! :)
Sorry about your sister. I'm sure she has a LOT to work through after all she's been through. Keeping busy could be her way of just breaking off small pieces at a time... or avoiding til she feels able to handle it.

Ilana, so glad you like my ducks. I usually see them in the late afternoon. I think they have a routine - though I don't know what it is.
Don't worry about visiting my thread - I'd rather you do all those other wonderful things you're doing. I do love it when you get a chance to say hi though ;-)

Ellen, someone needs to come up with a "Lifestyle GPS" for navigating through life. You pick a lifestyle and it directs your decisions and actions, etc. oooo - I like my own idea! Thanks for the positive encouragement. Pls add it to my bill - LOL

****************
Bridget has invited me to join her in Manchester, NH this weekend. That's my girl!
She is going to a yoga conference (she's an instructor) and will be staying alone. Since she has to pay for the hotel anyway, she thought I might like to take advantage of free lodging with her and time to do my own thing during the day on Sat.

At first, I said no thanks (as I always do to everything). Then I thought about it and decided I'm going!
Ron is good with all of that. YAY!

So: Friday I'm going to NH - returning home Sunday. I felt funny leaving Mom for part of Mother's Day then remembered - Hey! I'm a mom too! :-)

Yay for Bridget! No need to cry, now. Weekend with her will improve yr spirits. Glad you're going. Yay you!

Hi Claudia- Stopping by to offer a shoulder. Sorry to hear you are still struggling. I hope your get-away weekend helps. Gentle hugs!

Beware the *Money Tree*
The saleslady neglected to say that money goes OUT

does NOT come in! :P~~~

It looks fairly tame...nice book corner!
Your home looks cozy :)

(You haven't strangled Ron, have you? )

Thanks for the shoulder, Mark. But really, I don't cry anymore. Wish I could. I'll take the hugs ;-)
This struggle will go in in varying degrees for awhile yet.
I'm kinda emotional - heh. Have you ever noticed?

You know Bridget is my savior, Kath. I'll come home happy again :)

Yeah, right. It LOOKS tame - but it is evil and I am afraid to throw it away. Don't know what to do with it :{

It will be a good and well deserved relaxing time for you...

Oh, and did you notice how neat those books are? All alpha by author. Those are 2 of about 6 shelves - 2 of them much taller. And I am officially out of room again... BUT when Mom leaves I might get one of my shelves back again. That would help.

Then I'm gonna try to keep it at that, i.e., one book in - one book out! No exceptions to the rule! HAhahahaha!

I did notice that they were neat and tidy. I couldn't see that they were alpha order but...
I remembered, I promise :) Most of my shelves are nowhere near that tody, and none are in alpha order... I have a by genre order.. ( loosely). Maybe today would be a good day to fill a box with books
to go.

My goal is to empty one more shelf before the end of summer.
I want to get rid of any books that are already read and not on my reread list.
I have some other things I want to make sure go to the kids or somewhere else where
they will be useful... going through clothing, etc. I have a sort of time frame in mind....

Margie and I were talking about that ... the other day. Not crying. I think that we reach a point where
we are sort of cried out. Amy sometimes makes me cry. Yesterday, the Obama interview made me cry. Mostof the time though, I just ache from the bones out until I feel like you should be able to see it
on my skin itself. But mostly crying eludes me. Maybe it is age or despair?


So whatcha doin' today? When do you leave for your time with Bridget?

Just stopping by to see how you're doing, Cee. Sorry to hear about you mom's packing adventures. Glad you can get away for the weekend!

My bookshelves are overflowing again, and there's a big used book sale this weekend that I am arguing with myself about going to. . . shouldn't buy any more . . . but so hard to resist the siren song of the big book sale . . .

Crying . . . me, as I get older, I seem to cry more easily over silly sentimental things, but not so much over life's problems. Family drama doesn't often bring tears, but certain songs will turn on the waterworks every time. Go figure.

Cee - Thinking of you today and sending good wishes your way. I hope that your weekend away is relaxing. Do something just for you!

Very nice book corner, Cee.
I don't cry, either. Well, I cried a lot after we lost Edgar, but that was such unadulterated and uncomplicated grief, there was nothing else to do. With more usual-life-stress and overwhelm, I run. My runs are where my anger, fear, and grief typically go. By the end of a 3-5 mile run, my head is clear, my anger is dissipated, and my sense of optimism is usually restored. So, perhaps a brisk walk?

Oh Ellen.. yes.. there is that.. grief will do it.. goddess.. I don't dare even think
about losing a furkid... if I can help it.

Thanks to all who stopped by -

Interesting thoughts on crying. I think I did enough when younger - so, yeah - cried out. The passing of a furkid would definitely bring tears if the past is any indication. Like you said Ellen, pure "unadulterated grief". I agree, nothing else will do.

Oh gawd - Mom now packing her sewing stuff - which she doesn't do anymore. Can't imagine what I will find. At this point, if it keeps her busy it's all good. Will sort stuff out later.

I will probably leave tomorrow afternoon for NH. Have to talk to Bridget again to make plans.

Nasty migraine this morning - new med did not work. So, I took one of the old faithful standbys (that works a little) and hope the chemical reaction in me won't result in an explosion or meltdown. Actually, I called the doctor and he said it was ok. Waiting for something to kick in :PP~~~

I keep telling you .. Excedrine and Dramamine.. never fails me.. or my family....
But no driving while asleep, after taking dramamine

( think Occam's Razor)

feel better fastest!

Sorry that you are frustrated but hopefully your weekend away will be calm and lovely for you!

When I am frustrated and feel like crying I usually take a hot bath and put a hot washcloth over my face. I don't know why but that always makes me feel calm.

Hugs!

Ceeeeeeeee, Have a wonderful time in NH! Forget about all the stuff and just relax.

>42 -Cee-: great news on you heading of on a mother daughter outing. And good on you for reversing your initial NO decision.

And can you please tell you daughter I have taken up yoga again, and am loving it :) Im sure she'd be interested to hear . lol

But Kath, I don't have any dramamine! Slept all afternoon - best I could with sun sneaking in under the blinds and phone ringing rather frequently. Dr said I could take two meds together - so I did and things are tolerable now.

Yeah, Chelle - I should do that hot tub soaking thing. Now that I have a bathtub meant for soaking :) Forgot about that! Thanks for the hugs - this too shall pass ;-)

Lynda - That's exactly what I plan to do - exactly. And Bridget is one who can make it happen. It will be nice to feel like a loved mother for a change (instead of a no good daughter).

Hi Megan! I will tell Bridget about your yoga. She really will be interested and happy for you. Something about these yoga people - always trying to get everyone to relax - heh.

My poor day was somewhat wasted - much to my dismay. But I came thru it to the other side and am looking forward to a good weekend. I will try to visit a few threads... but first,
I was able to ead the last 20 pages of my book and it is finished!

Just what the doctor ordered Cee---weekend get away with your daughter. You will have a great time. I just know it.

#27 A View of the Harbour by Elizabeth Taylor
4 stars



A different kind of book focusing on a handful of characters living in an old fishing village in England. The town is dying and those left are remnants of a by-gone era. Lots of introspection, judgement, and speculation paint a sad picture of what this town and its people have become. You begin to wonder if any of the townfolk can be saved from themselves.

The writing is wonderful. It starts out scattered and all comes together like a woven tapestry. Even better, there are lots of zingers in what this author wants you to think about and notice. I loved several quotable passages - this following being one of my favorites:

"The day comes in slowly to those who are ill. The night has separated them from the sleepers, who return to them like strangers from a distant land, full of clumsy preparations for living, the earth itself creaking towards the light."

Not action-packed - no violence, sex, or superheros- this is a perceptive look at what it is to be human in a forgotten little town. Slowly unfolding, but not boring...

Yes, indeed, Bonnie! The thing is... I never have to ask or suggest these things. Bridget is always coming to me just at the right times with exactly what I need. She's great!

Hi Claudia- Congrats on finishing a book! Hooray! But... "no violence, sex, or superheros"?
WHAT?? I've been seeing this Liz Taylor bandied around lately. I'm not sure she is my cuppa.

LOL, Mark! I knew that would be a stumbling block for you!
Well, there was an affair - as well as many suspected/implied illicit relationships. Somebody died. Lots of beer drinking! Nothing graphic though... sorry.

a perceptive look at what it is to be human in a forgotten little town.

Nice. Elegiac works look like they suit your present mood dear lady. Take the weekend with Bridget to right all your ills.

Or maybe this book wasn't so "elegiac" - just my mood made it so? Hmmm. Nope. I think you picked the right word!

But, Paul. Being one who seems to be up all through the night - don't you love the phrase "...the earth itself creaking towards the light." ?
I've been caught a few times around 3-4 am wondering if the night will ever end!

Soooo, ready for this weekend, Paul ;-)

Yeah Cee it is a lovely phrase and I can appreciate the same given my own lifestyle and occasional moods. Have a lovely time in NH. x

Hi Cee - Sorry to hear about the packing problem.

Have a wonderful time this weekend with your daughter!

I've been on a little book buying binge and one of the books I ordered is A View of the Harbour.

Hi Joanne! The "packing problem" is reflective of the way we live around here. Will be nice to get back to some kind of order that makes sense, I hope. Maybe I'm asking for too much. But if the universe can have order, why can't my little house? Ah well... many have worse problems.

I think you will like A View of the Harbour. It's rather light reading with just enough human behavior substance to make it interesting.

I haven't been on a book buying binge in awhile.
Does anyone know Manchester, NH?
Any good bookstores around there? I have no clue.
Will have to check on that.
Not sure how much I will be on LT this weekend with traveling and Mother's Day duties when I get back.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend... AND...
To all mothers in all circumstances (which includes furkids), single fathers who fill in on the mothering role, and Mother Earth:

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! THANKS for all you do! Each of you is very important and special :-)

Hope you have a really great time, Cee!

TAKE THE CELL PHONE WOMAN!!!

In case of emergency, or need to text someone about how great a time you are having!

Thanks, Mamie! Will do!

Kath, Kath, Kath!
I don't have a cell phone. Mom had one that I carried around for her. I disconnected it. She doesn't need it and I'm sick of carrying it around - and charging it. I just don't use it :P~
If there is an emergency, I'm sure everyone around me will have a cell phone. And I don't know how to text. Nor do I want to know.

That is exactly what I was afraid of... you know.. Ron has one, right?
And for an extra 10$ a month, you can have one, too. Just in case.

see... I knew it, I knew that you would be going off with no cell phone .. grr

Your upcoming week end sounds delightful, Cee. Maybe you can run out of packing boxes...at least while you're gone? It sounds like Mom is still good with the move which is a very good thing. I hope all three generations of mothers in your family have a wonderful Mother's Day!

OK, Kath... cool your jets ;-) Ron made me take the cell phone and the GPS. What I do to keep you all quiet! How did I ever live w/o technology?

Hi Donna, Ron has been helping Mom to pack and is pulling out his hair. :{
I just wanna say to him - "Welcome to my world!"
Thanks for the good wishes - hope you have a lovely day too!

So I'm in the hotel waiting for Bridget who is just pulling in. Poor tired baby - she worked all day and drove 3 hours and got lost - so I talked her down (so to speak).
All's well that ends well!

Check in tomorrow! Oh! I'm a happy, happy woman!

Cee - I don't know whether this helps but here is a link giving you all the bookshops in and around Manchester, NH : http://directory.nh.com/manchester+nh/bookstores.zq.html

have FUN!!!!
Happy Mothers Day, you've earned a nice break away

Not much in the way of bookstores in Manchester (as I expected) but perhaps you pass through Portsmouth??? Or one of these other towns? Here's a link to the Independent bookstores in NH:

http://www.newpages.com/bookstores/new_hampshire_bookstores.htm

Glad it all worked out... and hope you are breathing deeply and relaxing every single moment.

Wishing you a Happy Mother's Day Claudia!!! Hope you enjoy your much deserved weekend getaway!!!!!!

Have a great weekend. Lovely review of A View of the Harbour.

Cee....now that you've arrived and Bridget is there, TURN THE DANG PHONE OFF! Enjoy your visit and don't let us intrude. In fact, I hope you're reading this long after you return from a well-deserved BFF weekend.

Happy mother's day, Cee!

Glad to see no new posts.. must mean you are having too good a time to think about LT!
yay!!!

Happy Mother's Day, Claudia! Hope you are having a wonderful weekend with your daughter.

Safe home yet?

Cee - I hope you had a fabulous and relaxing time this weekend and got to enjoy your daughter's company. Happy Mother's Day!

I'm hooooome! What a great, great treat this get-away turned out to be!

Thanks to all for the nice sentiments and great advice! I decided to have fun - phone and computer off - rested, read, shopped, spent quality time with B, walked - all things good!
Last night right before bedtime, we warmed our feet in the hot tub (a few doors down the hall) and ran to our room and jumped in bed. Nice.

True pathetic story of panic: While I was packing I threw my ER book that I was reading and loving into the front pocket of my bag. When I got to NH and went to pull out the book to read at bedtime - it was NOT there! I panicked! I had NO book to read. Yikes! I figured I didn't actually pack it and was hallucinating????

The next morning I went to the bookstore and suffered sticker shock. I was determined to buy something, but couldn't believe the prices as I almost always buy on Amazon used (cheap) or with points from my credit card ($0). I was gonna get Stephen King's new book. But $35??? I don't think so!
Then I couldn't figure out what to buy... I wanted to buy the book coming up for the June GR River of Smoke but couldn't remember the name of the book or the author :P
After taxing my brain long and hard - I remembered Binocular Vision that I wanted to get - but it was not in stock. NOT IN STOCK? We're talking B&N!
I finally settled on The Betrayal for $15 (choke, choke). It's starting out good... saved my sanity at any rate. Didn't have much time to read, but at least I had a book nearby. Whew!

So - I get home only to find my ER book was not on my nightstand either! I panicked again! Wailing to Ron - "I liked that book and I want to finish it! Where can it be? I can't buy it yet! How am I gonna write a review?...etc" He went over to my suitcase and pulled it out of the front pocket!!!! I didn't realize there was a pocket-in-a-pocket deal. I had completely missed it I was checking the wrong pocket :P I had the book all the time! I give up... old age sucks ;-)

Tired and happy - will visit threads tomorrow. Pls forgive me...

Cee - great to see your weekend at least matched expectations - look forward to hearing more of your news when you are rested.

Good morning Paul! (or I guess it's good-night actually!) News for my today - packing, packing, packing up Mom's stuff. Where did she get all this stuff?
Frankly I hate moving and this is the second time in 3 years we have moved her... there'll be at least one more in the future. :(

BIG MOVE is tomorrow and however many days after that it takes to get everything over there!

Hope everyone has a great day ;-)

Sending good thoughts and positive moving energy...
It's a huge job and I hate it too, but how exciting for you and for mom..
A whole lot of new time for you, and a new life with new friends and new experiences
for mom.. what a wonderful time.

Good luck to both of you Cee - I'm sure that it is the best thing for both of you and the place looks genuinely fantastic.

Thanks Kath! In need of that energy :)
I know... life is looking up for all of us.

Thanks. Ya know, Paul - if Mom were not moving in to that place, I think I might consider it! Sometimes I think I feel older and in need of more care than she. LOL

Ron's birthday today - so add making a bday cake to the day :)

Claudia- Welcome back, my friend. Sounds like you had a wonderful weekend and didn't end up losing any books. Yah! Hugs!

Praying the rain holds off....moving is hard enough without having to dodge the droplets!

Too, too much going on here...i feel an attack of The Vapors coming on

Your book shelves are way too neat.....i feel the need to go in and mess 'em up

Good luck on "moving Mom"....and i'm hoping it's a good fit for her....and that you'll take some deep breaths and get through the initial trauma/guilt.......

{{{Hug}}}

Cee: Good luck with the move. It sounds like you had a wonderful weekend; I love your story of the lost book. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who does stuff like that. With me, it's usually my glasses. I'll walk through the house looking for them and find them in some odd place like the kitchen cabinets. Old age is not for sissies.

Let us know how it goes...
we will be sending energy and waiting to hear...
When you are ready to tell.

hugs

missing glasses......often found on top of my head!

Oh, Tina.......i know that well, when i used to have my glasses on a necklace/chain....and didn't "need" them for a minute......whoop, they'd go on the head, then i'd 'forget"

;-)

Birthday wishes to Ron, Cee - trust and pray everything goes well with you Mom.

>91 PaulCranswick: pocket in a pocket deal huh, gets them every time :)
I feel your panic, lol

All caught up with you now Claudia. My one thread tonight before I start getting ready for bed. It's already very late for my new schedule...

So glad you had a great weekend with your daughter. You deserve it. In moments of stress this week, maybe you can just try to think back on some of the nicest parts from your weekend getaway to help keep things in perspective?

A belated happy mom's day. I forgot to wish the same to my own mom... thought they have it on a different day in France, so I'm in the clear. Not that she cares about that stuff, as she likes to insist.

Moving is no fun. Goodness knows I've done my share of it in life, but very glad that I've been in the same place for now 11 years and have no intention of going anywhere if I can help it! It does sound like you're up against quite a lot of work, undoing the havoc your mom is wreaking! Eek. We're all here to listen to your rants if you need to let out the steam once in a while!

Big hugs. xx

Hi Cee - Glad you had a nice weekend and Mother's Day. Good luck this week!

All you guys are GREAT! Thanks so much...
gotta go wake up Mom now...

Great story about the un-lost ER book, Cee. Panic mode sets in quickly when you're sure you put something somewhere and it's not there at first glance, but especially so when it is a book!

I'm glad you spent the weekend in NH it sounds like it's just what your tired soul needed and Ron sounds like a dear man to help your mom pack. OK, perhaps he's just a happy and relieved man.

How many times has something like that happened to me? I look in a spot over and over,
only to find the missing item in that spot later. Frustrating.

Good luck with moving day!
I suspect that this will mean more painting and maybe some new curtains?

And so it will be extending the renewal of Cottage Cee.... I look forward to details.

You know, if I didn't have a fondness for Pride and Prejudice due to the lovely miniseries with Colin Firth, Sense and Sensibility would probably be my favorite Austen novel. I just really loved that story!

Hi Cee,
I'm glad your getaway was so refreshing. It sounds like just what you needed, sticker shock at B&N aside...... I'm glad you found something to buy. I never, ever buy hardcover books, partly because of the price and partly because of the heft. I often get them from the library, of course, but when I buy, it's almost always paperback. And I still pay too much and too often.... Sounds like you're one of the LTers planning to participate in the River of Smoke Group Read. I am tentatively planning to join in.

Keep taking care, Cee, one step at a time.

Moving Day, Ron's birthday... so much going on here. Best of luck to you with everything that is happening right now, Cee. It's a good thing you had a brief respite late week end. I had to tell my husband about your book getting lost in your suitcase. Luggage is our business so I know firsthand that there are way too many pockets to lose things in. ;-)

Thinking of you today.

Loved your book saga. I've done things like that all my life. Q. is , will this now get worse, or will I actually be better at coping?

Hope today goes well for you and your mom!
Sorry to hear about your book troubles, but finding I had forgot a book would send me into a panic too! Glad you found it with Ron's help ;)

Hope it went well... you have been in my thoughts ..

Hi! Glad you had a good getaway, and that the book turned up. I spend half my life looking for things I can't find. (Redundant statement, I know; I wouldn't be looking for them if I knew where they were!)

Hope today went well for you and Mom today Cee. Anxiously waiting for news....

ummmm When I said :
Let us know how it goes...
we will be sending energy and waiting to hear...
When you are ready to tell.

hugs

I was kidding. I meant// let us know how you are, soon...
it's that old ESL issue biting me in the butt again.

Oh my! I've had such great visitors and messages :)

The BIG MOVE is accomplished - and all went smoothly. YAY!
Yesterday started early and ended late. By the time I got home, I was a wreck (mostly physically hurtin' and exhausted).
Today was a mix of errands, appts and back to Sunnybrook for an afternoon visit and more orientation... for Mom. I imagine it will take months before she is truly comfortable about where she's going, but she is in a good frame of mind and open to the change. What a relief!

Remember the big box she was packing on Ron's watch (I think I mentioned it)? I found her today digging into it. When I arrived everything was everywhere in her bedroom. I have never seen such a mixed pile of stuff in such disarray.
Socks, money, pictures, books, pens, things as old as a picture of her at 18, things as new as the resident orientation handout from yesterday, souvenirs from everywhere, stamps from her collection, CDs, etc.. etc... I can't even remember. The box was still half full.

And here's the thing... I was able to look at her and her mess and smile. She was so freakin' happy! She had so much fun packing the box and now she is having even more fun taking it all out. Just hope she can find a place to sleep tonight ;-)

She managed her own breakfast (oatmeal) and lunch (sandwhich) today in her room and went to dinner with a new "friend". I watched them get off the elevator and walk together into the dining room - two little silver-haired ladies moving slowly and chatting companionably. It was very sweet.

COMCAST IS THE DEVIL! OY! We now have to deal with them for Mom in her new location. Ron set up the account for her and then they were VERY rude and would not talk to him about the account cuz his name wasn't on it! To make a long, frustrating story short - we got her on the phone to allow his name on her account. They asked her what her SSN was. She said very emphatically - "I don't know! I don't work anymore." I gave her the number, she read it off to them, they put Ron on the acct, then did NOT show up to hook up her tv/computer even tho it had been scheduled for yesterday.
Trying again tomorrow. I dread the outcome :P~

Anyway, my heart is glad and Mom and I are already on better terms.
Thanks for all the wonderful support and wrapping your thoughts around me when I needed it most.

I will answer individuals later... I'm pretty overwhelmed myself!
Ron is still waiting for his birthday cake from Monday :}
Maybe tomorrow...

Hugs to you all!

Sounds good.. all good.
Except for the devil Comcast..
Wish you luck. Adam is locked in a battle with them, too =(
Glad it is sorting out well....
hugs

119: COMCAST IS THE DEVIL!
It is indeed.

Wow, I've missed a lot. Seriously, a whole thread went by? A happily relocated mom sounds like an excellent outcome.

Aww!! Glad things went well!!! :-}

Claudia- I'm glad things went as smooth as they did. Hope you are hanging in there. Hugs!

And here's the thing... I was able to look at her and her mess and smile. She was so freakin' happy!

Cee - you're right - just the thing indeed! Nice way to start my morning here to see and share in vicariously with your heartening news.

Congrats, Cee! Even with the cable issue, it's all good.

See, I had theories..
You got home and had a "date night" . A long one.
You got there with mom and liked it so much, that you decided to send mom back and stay yourself.
That you were so done after all of the lead up to it that you decided to sleep for days.
That mom packed your computer and you hadn't noticed.
That you had an appointment for massage afterward with John Travolta.

There were more, but you get the idea...

High fives and pats on the back! You've done a great thing, Cee, for both you and Ron as well as your mom. It looks like she'll be entering a new stage of life surrounded by companionship and love. Ok, now go ahead take a deep breath, exhale..........now don't you feel better :0)

>108 Carmenere: Lynda, I have heard others talk about taking extra reading material everywhere they go and never quite understood ituntil I found myself sans book in a hotel! Yikes - never again :}

"Ron sounds like a dear man ... OK, perhaps he's just a happy and relieved man."
It's both, Lynda. He's the best.

>109 mckait: Kath - "Lost and Found", getting to be the story of our lives, I think. But I don't have your kitties to blame - and Woolly has never (I mean never) played with or moved anything belonging to me - except emery boards!
>115 mckait: Thanks so much for keeping me in your thoughts. That has great value to me. truly.
>118 mckait: "When you are ready..."
Believe it or not - that phrase hit me good. I needed to hear that, so I took it literally. Sorry it's actually taking some time - but I'm pretty overwhelmed still.
You must be patient, my dear friend ;-)

>110 The_Hibernator: Hi Rachel! I guess I am going to have to check out that mini-series of Pride and Prejudice soon. I expect to be watching more movies - and think I will re-join Netflix. They seem to have just about everything!

>111 EBT1002: Ellen - I am planning on joining in the River of Smoke GR. I ordered the book from Ammy and it is in the mail! Even if I can't join the group due to timing, I still need to read it :)
I used to buy paperbacks before the print started getting waaaay too tiny. Now I don't trust them unless I see the actual size of print in my hot little hands. Still - even paperbacks are priced outrageously now. :P

>112 Donna828: Hi Donna, Really... I'm not that stupid when it comes to pockets. I still can't believe I couldn't find that book!
Maybe you and DH could come up with a geriatric carryon. Don't even ask me what that would look like LOL!

>113 sibylline: Thanks for thinking of me, Lucy. I really feel the power of my LT friends holding me up during this stressful time :) It's good to know I am not the only one with these coping issues ;-) Somehow, I don't think it's gonna get better. Still, I am amazed at how the elderly draw on their life experience and adapt rather well (before they totally lose it). I believe we still have some time.

>114 ChelleBearss: Hi Chelle! That's what husbands are for, right? Helping with the little and the big things, if you get a good one! I'm thinking you did :) I'm dreaming of a trip to NS now that I might have the freedom. Maybe in the fall. I'll bet it beautiful then...

>116 tymfos: Terri - LOL "looking for things I can't find" ! I hear ya though - geeze. I'm not a hunter by nature. If only I could teach my cat to find things. She likes to stalk and hunt...

>117 brenzi: Bonnie, The day couldn't have gone better, imo. It didn't rain - no one got hurt - Mom was good - I didn't miss any meals! What more could I ask for? I'm still reeling from the change. The happy change. Wonder how long this euphoria will last?

>121 qebo: Katherine! Thanks for visiting! I haven't been all that great in getting around threads lately. I'm sure to have a new Comcast story by tonight - OY! Glad Ron is dealing with them and not me. :P~~~

>122 tjblue: Tammy!! Thanks. I fluctuate between happiness that all is going well and fear of the axe falling anytime! This is going to take time to get used to for all of us.

>123 msf59: Hey Mark! I am hanging in there - thanks in part to your great hugs! Sort of like an amusement park ride at times ;-)
Did you notice River of Smoke is being brought to me by my friends at USPS? (I do a PO Box)

>124 PaulCranswick: Paul, I am being amazed at how this whole move is going... and how I am so much better able to accept Mom's "quirkiness" now that I am not feeling responsible for her every single moment. I almost feel I am getting my Mom back again - not the one I grew up with, not the one I came to know as an adult, but still a special woman I love very much. I hope it lasts.

>125 Copperskye: Joanne, You're right! Even the cable issue can't put a damper on my spirits. I have heard so many complaints about them - just thought I would throw in our wonderfully idiotic experience. I keep wondering how they get away with that kind of service (or lack thereof)???? But I guess, when you come right down to it, I belong to yesteryear. *heavy sigh*
Comcast can't push me off Cloud 9! Comparatively speaking - it's a small detail. Mom doesn't watch much TV and barely understands her computer... so ...

>127 Carmenere: Lynda - Thanks for the encouragement - I still need it... ok... *Deep Breath*! Oh, yes! I feel much better :)

Hope everyone has a great day.
I, myownself, need to get domestic and do laundry, cleaning, cooking, etc...

I'm thinking of you and sending lots of love your way. Regarding the topic of crying, I am like you. I can cry regarding animals, but usually hold the emotion in and rarely cry.

I wish I could cry more often. As I get older I find that I tolerate less from nasty people. I get frustrated and hurt and it is all pent up somehow.

I do cry when people are nice. When people are kind and loving and sensitive it seems so uniuqe that the tears arrive easily.

Good look re. your mom. You are a saint!

Re. migraines, the magic bullet for me is fiorcet. It is loaded with caffeine.

Much love.

Ha, Linda! You're right about the caffeine. My cure has been fiorinal and a pot of coffee. (Kills my stomach but I'll take that over the headache.)
In the past several months, it has not been as effective. I've been trying other things w/o luck. Maybe when things calm down, it'll get better.

I'm with you on crying - animals' (my own pets actually) deaths and really nice people will turn on the tears. But that's about it.

Cee - So very happy that every thing is working out, and that you got her moved okay. What a load off your shoulders to have her getting settled in and know that she will be fine. What a loving daughter you are!! I think you have handled everything beautifully, and I can feel your giddiness at having it taken care of and being able to concentrate more on your own life. Wishing you only good things and lots of quiet moments to enjoy them in. Yeah for you!!

Hi Mamie!
Thanks for the kind sentiments.
Apparently Mom went to lunch in the dining room (which she said she would never do) and when pointed towards the dining room for supper, took off like a kid in school :) She went walking today (with a small group) and did an easy exercise class in the afternoon. Oh yeah. She's adapting!

That is just so excellent!

So glad to hear the move went well! It's great when things go the way they should and everyone is happy!

130: If you do come to NS please let me know and we could have a little meet up!

So happy mom is liking her new digs!
I am so happy for all concerned :)

Checking in -- sounds as though things are going well. That's quite wonderful.

Jumping in late, but in our family, COMCAST is known as "Satan's Cable company." So glad everything is going well for you and Ron, AND YOUR MOM.

Here a bit belatedly to say I'm glad the move went so well! What a relief.

Chelle - I'll be sure to let you know if we make plans for NS. We both want to go and we'll have all summer to get those crazy passports I keep talking about.

Kath - I'll bet everyone here on LT is breathing a sigh of relief... no horror stories :) After all that agonizing for me, it was an easy move for her. Go figure!

Hi Lucy - You know it!

So Tina, good news! The Comcast guy was supposed to come between 3-5. He made it at 4:50! Hooked everything up - Ron said he even knew what he was doing. He had to upgrade the wiring first so it took awhile. All's well in Sunnybrook!

Yes, indeed Ellen! It was all coordinated well, plenty of help and cooperation - and in the end - a blessed relief!
Still, I don't know how Mom is getting along w/o ME. Sheesh!
Ok. She did it for 25 years before I was even born. And lots of years after I left home...
I guess I give myself too much importance LOL!
I love Sunnybrook!

Oh Cee....that's such great news. Internet, cable....now she can be connected, and you can relax.

Claudia, I'm so sorry I wasn't here to celebrate with you yesterday. What exciting times! I'm sooo happy for you and can only imagine how relieved you must be. Now you'll have to figure out how to use up all that extra time you'll have on your hands! ;-)

Hugs. xx

Just dropping back to say I'm glad to hear that everything is going well with your Mom. I hope you get your trip to NS. We had a holiday there a few years ago and it definitely rates as one of the best ever - and also the best breakfasts.

Good Morning!!!!!

A whole day of freedom ahead of you.. what to do?
Cool, huh?

And mom is clearly having fun so all is well....

Are you planning a trip yet?

Hi Tina! I'm wondering if Mom will have time for internet and cable activities! She's a wild woman let loose in a senior's playground ;-)

Oh Ilana - I'll be celebrating for a long time yet. You're not too late! I keep thinking how sad this house was becoming. My mind refused to think. My eyes refused to see. My body was a tangled mess of tightening muscles and was shutting down. I now feel like I am uncurling sort of - opening up - blossoming with the new spring growth. I know that all sounds corny - but it's the truth! Thanks for stopping by :)

Hi Rhian, We've been trying for a few years now to make it to NS. Never could arrange enough get-away time to do it right. So, we're still seriously hankering to get there. And now you've given me a tempting teaser - "...the best breakfasts." YUM!

YES! A day of freedom, Kath -
A very good morning indeed! Going to lunch with "the office ladies" (our monthly meeting). Every month we go to a different place. Very cool!
Making a quick trip to Sunnybrook to check things out - just a little reassurance after being away all day yesterday :-} Also have a few things I need to drop off for Mom.

A beeeeuuutiful day - the sun is shining and it's in the 50s.
I hope everyone gets a jolt of happiness today!

Hi Cee: I'm so happy everything is going so well with your mom. It sounds like you even have some time now to take a deep breath and enjoy the the day.

Hi Beth!
I'm happy too! Can you tell????

149: You seem in fact a little giddy. :-)

Cee - you are radiating happiness! Hope you have a great day today!

I know that I can tell!
Whew! I am relieved. I was worried. Not about mom..
especially after you found such a great place. I was worried about you.
I am so glad it is settling into a good fit for all :) Your happy is infectious.

Now.. where did you go for lunch? What did you have?
Was it good? Did you do something crazy for Cee after?
Are you going to go out this weekend?

Are you moving rooms yet?
No hurry?

When is the next batch of company coming?
Want me to stop asking questions?

ok.

So happy to see you so happy Cee! It'll take some getting used to having your home to yourself again AND knowing Mom is in a safe lovely place but it will happen. Probably sooner than you think.

want you to know that even tho I have been absent with my RL stuff you and your mother have been in my thoughts :)
I have read every 50 some posts! yes I did, because this change in your life was important and I'm SO glad things have worked out as well as they have :)

{{{hug}}

as far as your migraines- I just read something online and saw on TV regarding a seizure med that has shown to be effective in treating them. Neurontin? I think.....
I will check and let you know unless you already now about this :)

Hi Katherine, Mamie, Kath, Bonnie, and everyone who has suffered my distress of late...!

Giddy & happy - yup! I know this level of joy doesn't last forever, but I haven't felt good in so long and it's great for as long as it lasts :-)
Happiness is fleeting, Kath. You can worry about me later ;-)

So... for lunch we went to a yummy bistro in Bath that just started serving lunch. I predict success for them.
mmm-mmm!
We had fish & chips, crabmeat salad and lamb gyros - with
*drumroll please*
Celebratory champagne toast!
Ending with - a sinfully moist and dense chocolate mousse cake and a warm apple tart w/ice cream - which we passed around the table. Top notch!

My next company is tomorrow - aunt and cousin coming for a long planned visit which will be focused on Mom's new digs now. That's ok.
Bridget and family coming the following weekend for Mem Day. Haven't seen the grands in a long time.

We actually haven't moved back to our bedroom yet. I want to get it cleaned out and possibly re-painted. There's still a lot of "stuff" we need to get rid of... I might re-do the sitting room into a library. But thinking of moving all those books again makes me crazy =:P~
No real hurry.

So, it's getting late already - where did today go?
Company tomorrow... I'm getting pooped out already :}
At least my week getting up early with Loki is over - Ron's turn!!!

Kara - oops! cross-posted

Thanks for your kind thoughts - I know you have had a lot on your plate lately. I appreciate all the positive energy and support from everyone. This was a "biggie" for me!

That's interesting about Neurontin (gabapentin), Kara. It's being used for a variety of things now. I am actually taking that in a small dose every day, just started recently. I am sensitive to meds and have to start slow. Thanks for passing that on... I'll let you know if I have success with that.

Hope things lighten up for you and you are able to make positive changes in your life. It feels so good to feel good :-)

Cee - Hope you have a great weekend and a good date night tonight. Trusting you don't spend too much time pining over your mum. x

Cee - Hope you have a fabulous weekend and that your company is kind to you. Here's a House Rule written just for you: While I am happy to welcome you into my home, the doormat is outside.

Let me know if you need a few more!

I like that house rule. I may paint it on my front door. In Red.
So what time are they coming? will you go with them to see mom or smile and wave :)
I figured that you would be wanting to paint and redo the rooms.. I am glad that you
are getting the chance to make them all fresh and new for you. Or, will..
when the company goes home. Have a nice weekend!

Paul - we don't need "date night" anymore... or... every night is a date night! Take your pick :)
LOL - pining - LOL you funny man!

Oh! I love it, Mamie! Slip in a zinger anytime at all!

Kath, Aunt Phyl & Elaine will be here about 11:30. I'll go with them to see Mom and we will all go out to dinner in Freeport.
Before I can seriously tackle our bedroom suite, we have to wallpaper the one wall in the bedroom upstairs to finish that up. We got a bit interrupted on that room. Gonna try for tomorrow on that one.
Gotta get this stuff done before everyone gets their boats in the water. Hoping to spend more time on the water this summer - and kayaking again!!!

Well. This is a glorious day and I think I might be making everyone sick with all my happy gushing... but it continues... I'll get over it eventually ;-)

Have been reading Pilgrimage of Harold Fry - an ER book. I'm lovin' it. Well written - great story - making my feet hurt! Anyone else would have knocked this one off in a jiffy. I can't even remember when I started this...maybe 2 weeks ago? Oh, I am so behind on my reading :(

Happy Saturday to ALL!

Don't get over it - we are all soaking up and basking in your happiness! It's making us happy, too!!

Cee: Have a great weekend and good luck with your DYI projects. I have a couple of those going myself, and they take forever.

yep. What mamie said!

Claudia, everything in life is temporary, especially life itself, so feel free to enjoy this time of giddiness to it's fullest. You deserve to feel happy and relieved. You had been going through some very difficult things and have had quite a huge load taken off your shoulders. I'm really happy that it's having such a dramatic effect on your mood. Well deserved.

I've been taking Gabapentin for about a year now, by the way. It's not foolproof, and one definitely can't afford to skip any doses, but I think it has lessened the frequency and intensity of the migraines.

Cee, your happiness is catching. I am smiling as I read about your plans for your house. A library. I think having a room dedicated to books would be worth the hassle of moving them again. It doesn't have to be done tomorrow. Maybe a good winter project?

Enjoy your visitors this weekend. You know, people love to help...if you want to get started on one of your projects. ;-)

Thank goodness I am a woman! I can and will be changing my mind -
on the wallpapering tomorrow.
Going straight for the repainting, etc. of our bedroom downstairs so we can get back into it. The sooner, the better.
I'm convinced Mom will be fine and not be moving back here for maladjustment reasons. Anything else we can't predict and will handle if and when necessary.

Mamie - It's wild to think I am happy enough to make others feel it too! *grin*

Beth - I'm so anxious to have this house back in shape that it does seem to be taking a long time. I have so many things I'm working on, something will have to come to completion soon!

Kath :-) still smiling!

Ilana, I'm thinking that Mom leaving our house could have been under such very different and awful circumstances. At least this particular move was so very good for all of us - I feel vindicated about the decision. I know this feeling won't last forever, but it's been a long time since I have actually let myself feel ecstatic.

Did the gabapentin make you really, really sleepy? I'm trying to get up to a dose that will be effective, but I was feeling sooo sleepy and started taking naps cuz I could NOT stay awake. I had to cut back and am trying to take a bit more now. The doctor told me to half the capsule contents - but OH :PPPPPP
It tastes horrid!!!!! Ick, ick, ick! Don't do it!

Hi Donna, Company leaving early. Will get right on painting and polishing things up (like the wood floors). If my brain is working I will be planning how I want the library/reading-sitting room while I'm at it. ;-)

Hi Ho! Hi Ho! It's off to bed I go! very soon - with a book! YAY!

French toast with Orange Blossom Water tomorrow... ooooooooo YUM!

Claudia, the gabapentin does make me feel sleepy, but then so does everything else I take! It's a wonder I ever manage to stay awake at all! I take pills and not capsules. Twice daily in doses of 300 mg. I'm guessing you must be on a much smaller amount, or you would wouldn't have to be tasting awful capsule contents. How horrid! What dose are you on?

Hi Cee,
Just doing a fly by hello as I cruise the threads to see what Ive missed.
Looks like a HUGE amount, as I could have guessed.
Good luck with the wallpapreing, sounds like shoulder massages could be in order shortly :)

Cee, Your happiness and your mom's adapting brought a huge smile to my face this morning. Enjoy your visitors! and be as giddy as you like! There needs to be more giddy in the world!!

Orange Blossom Water? What is?

Morning Claudia- Hope you are having a nice weekend. Glad to see you in such a good mood. Puts a smile on my face.

Well. I'm even happier thinking that I am spreading smiles all over!

Ilana, I am experimenting with 100mg/3xday. And it does seem to work - just too, too sleepy. Have cut back to 100mg x2/day. (Even tried 50 in the AM and 100 at bedtime.)
As I cut back, the headaches started coming back.
The change in my stress levels recently is making me wonder if I might not need it anymore. My physical/mental state seems to be dramatically improved... we'll see if it lasts.

Ah, Megan - you have wallpapered before? (You know about needing massages.) Thanks for stopping by! I need to get over to your side of the world - be right over!

Thanks, Lynda! Funny I should need approval to feel good LOL This is Day 6 and I am still "up there" in my beautiful balloon!

I don't really know, Kath. I guess it's nectar extracted from orange blossoms which is edible, added to water, and lends a flavor to foodstuff. I am going to try it in french toast as Ilana recommends. Sounded interestingly yummy to me.
0 cal, 0everything! Just like water.

Hi Mark! Thanks for dropping by... this is a very safe thread with no blue temptation right now. Keep smiling!

I believe this is Sunday - and I believe it's gonna be great!
geesh! all this happiness is disgusting - right Jude? :-}

It's a joy to come over to your thread, Cee.

Cee - don't normally do this, but....what Lucy said.

Claudia, how was the French toast?

I found the following one wikipedia: "Orange flower water, or orange blossom water, is a clear, perfumed distillation of fresh bitter-orange blossoms.
This essential water has traditionally been used in many French and Mediterranean dessert dishes, such as the gibassier and pompe à l'huile, but has more recently found its way into Western cuisine. For example, orange flower water is used in France to flavor madeleines, in Mexico to flavor little wedding cakes and Pan de muerto, and in the United States to make orange blossom scones and marshmallows. Orange flower water is also used as an ingredient in some cocktails, such as the Ramos Gin Fizz."

There's more on the page if you're curious.

Migraines: I know a lot of mine a caused by stress, so it could well be that by having taken care of one major stress in your life, you might not suffer from them as much. I still get them on 600 mg/day so there's no question of reducing dosage in my case, but you're reminded me of one of the reasons why I'm so sleepy all the time. I tend to forget about that!

Cee, I'll join the others in encouraging you to just enjoy the joy, the giddiness, and the relief for as long as it lasts. And I'm glad you are enjoying your ER book.
And I love Ilana's list of how various cuisines have used orange flower water. Yum to all.

So how has the day been?

>173 sibylline: & >174 PaulCranswick: Lucy and Paul - Joy to the world!
Supper on the deck for TWO this evening as the sun was slipping behind the trees... sweet!

Ilana, French toast w/orange blossom water delayed til tomorrow morning. Ron started his breakfast this morning before I got to the kitchen. He wants to try it too. Now he knows to wait a few minutes tomorrow. Geesh!
Thanks for the lesson on Orange blossom water - so, they use the actual blossom. huh.
Oh, I LOVE madeleines!!!!
Good grief - come to think of it, if I were taking 600 mg/day I'd be in a coma!

I agree, Ellen! "Yum to all."
I keep waiting to slump into a funk (nervous fear) - but I'm still crazy happy. It's like the feeling I had when I got married and started a whole new life.
Called Mom tonight and she sounds so good!

Oh, happy day, Kath!
We emptied out the sitting room - cleaned it all up. I cleaned the woodwork and window frames - then primed where it was needed. Will get the trim all painted up tomorrow - I'm hoping. If I had pushed myself, I could have done it all today. But, what the heck... I'm practicing pacing myself :)

Fresh air everywhere! In all the rooms... Love it! Every window and door open today - cool breezes and sunshine flooding in! Did some reading inside out. Not liking the book so very much - but it is a library book due very soon so trying to finish up. The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland (love the title) is a little too juvenile and somewhat disjointed. There are a few good passages and ideas - but I'm glad it's going quickly.

It's Cee's Happy Place! Can you bottle some of your bliss and pass it around? :)

It sounds like a busy but good day.
Glad to see the happy is holding.

Good morning!

I wish I could, Joanne! I'd even save a bottle of it for myself - cuz I know there will come another time I will need it.

Kath - I'm keeping the busy at a moderate pace... don't want to crash and burn :} This pacing thing is hard to do. By nature I am a horse that runs til it drops...
So... today - woodwork painting and reading :)

Good Morning, Cee! Don't work too hard today. Woodwork painting and reading sounds like a good plan. Please give Loki my love.

I've been obsessing with the idea of mopping the entire first floor (it's one very big room) and you are making me think, go for it. Your energy and enthusiasm are so infectious.

Cee....did you see where Tim of LT fame is speaking at Patten Library next Wed at Noon? I'm planning to come and would love it if you or any other 75ers in the area could also. we could do a mini=meetup! http://www.patten.lib.me.us/

Oh Wow!!! That would be fabulous! What a great meet up op!

So who's coming? Should we post in the kitchen?

I found it!
The seizure drug is Topamax for migraines :)

here is the article/video that I saw on my local news

http://www.clickorlando.com/news/Following-medicine-guidelines-could-end-migrain...

YAY! All the white (Snowy Egret is the paint color - love the name) stuff is painted in the sitting room. All the 10 ft high things are cleaned, dusted and tacked up. Now to polish the floor and figure out what will go where again... tomorrow.

Mamie, Loki got an extra long hug from you today. I think he liked it since it was right after I brushed my teeth and he was loving the smell of the toothpaste! probably looking for somethng else to eat...

Lucy, I would help you with that floor if I were a little closer... maybe you will be listening to an audiobook.
I was listening to the birds :)

Oh, Oh, Oh! Tina! I did not know Tim was coming to Bath! Thanks for letting me know. How great is that?
I will be there no matter what!
It's on my calendar - are we supposed to bring our own lunch? Go ahead and post wherever! I hope some others will be there too! Did Tim advertize it here on LT? I'll have to look.

Come on up, Kath! I have a spiffy new guest bathrm! I'll pick you up at the airport :)

Thanks, Kara. Topamax - huh. I'll look at that link.
Migraine sufferers will try just about anything for relief :(

Don't tempt me too much.. I might surprise you !

you are very excited about Tim I see :)

Actually, I'm excited about meeting other LTers.
Common, Kath. Surprise me!

Glad to see the happy dance is continuing and now you may even have an LT meet-up! Life is good Cee!

184,188: Neat. You know there's a meetup group (http://www.librarything.com/groups/librarythinggatherin)?

Actually Tim didn't advert on LT....the librarian group here in MidCoast Maine invited all local librarians and said "BRING A FRIEND" and bring your lunch. SO.........................

wow sounds like you are getting a lot done!
Hope you are finding time to relax too :)

Well, someone better take pictures. Better.. everyone, take pictures!

Cee, I do hope you don't "run till you drop." Breathe? Just once? Just a little one?

No, really, I think it's great how much the relief of getting your mom settled has spread through your whole life, how you've got energy for some projects now, and just how much you're enjoying your days. It does seem like a bit of a new life for you.

hmmmm wondering what Cee is up to, now?

Cee! I lost you for a few days, but I am SO, SO HAPPY for you reading these posts and seeing how well things have gone. So great to see you happy! So glad to hear your Mom is happy in her new surroundings, and adapting well. Enjoy, friend!

Life is very good, Bonnie. Enjoying it while it lasts ;-)

Thanks for the link, Katherine! Now if I just had a private jet :)

I'll see you there, Tina... can't wait!

Hi Chelle, I told Ron I am trying to work 1/2 day and play 1/2 day for now. Don't worry I'm relaxing here and there - just hate to waste any energy that comes my way.

Yes, Kath Sir! Pictures for sure!

Oh, I'm breathing, Ellen! Relief is a powerful medicine :)

Sorry, Terri. You probably couldn't catch me in one place - I've been flitting around. Today was productive in the little things - but didn't progress much on the house work. I did get to spend a good portion of the day with Ron and we enjoyed that.

******************
So, tomorrow I go to a hearing clinic with free screening. I can't hear well with my right ear - but 2 ear doctors (both very professional) have said my hearing is fine back in 2005 and 2007. :P~~~
Gonna try once again, dang it! I think I know when I can't hear! I'm NOT crazy. I wanna hear better! If they tell me I need a hearing aid, I'll probably start whining about the cost. But, I just might be able to hear!!!! Wouldn't that be novel and exciting?

Claudia- Don't laugh but I was fitted for hearing aids back in December. I know I am only 52 but my hearing was really dropping off and my wife was getting frustrated with me. I have to admit it has made my hearing life much better. Yes, the cost is ridiculous and I'm glad we had the money. Insurance SHOULD cover, at least a portion of it.

Great Cee....I've marked the calendar...it's a gorgeous library so if anybody else wants to join us, let us know.

Mark - I'm not laughing! The only good thing about a bad right ear is at night when I lay on my left side... can't hear the snoring next to me! Otherwise, it's very frustrating to me.

If anyone else will be in this neck of the woods (Bath, ME) Weds 30th, please join us at the library!!!

#28 The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
3.5 stars

I don't think I was in the right mood for this one. Too much childish fantasy (did I say that?) - maybe too many hidden messages. This story seemed convoluted and just couldn't hold my attention... what little of it I have right about now. It got much higher ratings overall - so maybe I'll try it again someday; maybe not.

200: Thanks for the link, Katherine! Now if I just had a private jet :)
You don't want to add your meetup there?

OH! Hahahahaha!
Katherine, I'm too dense for words!
LOL! Duh...

OK - here it is
http://www.librarything.com/topic/137429#

and here is a link for the Patten Free Library where the event is being held..
http://www.patten.lib.me.us/

Uh Oh! My bad :P~~~~
I should never be trusted to do anything important :(

I set up the meet-up thread
BUT - ACK
I spelled Tim's last name wrong in the subject title!!!!

Can this be corrected? (I feel terrible.)

208: There's supposed to be a brief window of opportunity, maybe 10 minutes if you edit the post. Maybe Tim will fix it if you PM him. :-)

How do I do that?
Nevermind I found him...

I'd better go to bed.

Cee thanks so much for setting up that up....I had it on my list to figure out how to do tomorrow. I owe you big time.

I think you would have done a much better job of it, Tina.
If you really think you owe me, maybe you can make sure Tim never finds out who I am while we are there. Oy!

Hello Cee,
Good luck with the hearing screening, I guess the desired outcome for you is to confirm that you have a hearing problem, but as you say, you already know!

And re: the snoring....you can always take or turn off any hearing aid that you may or may not get! One trifle convenience maybe....

Cee, I hope the hearing screening goes well!

Good luck with today... hope you can get some help. Hearing is good.

Setting up threads, planning meet-ups.. what a busy woman!

and yes.. pls do remember to take a camera ! Wish I could be there... of all of the meetups.. this sounds the best!

Hi Megan! Thanks. I don't know what to think after being told by 2 doctors that my hearing is ok... but a few years have gone by. Maybe there has been a decline - or maybe three's the charm. I never hear of anyone who needed/wanted a hearing aid turned down. It's not like I want the inconvenience or the expense. And yes, I am consoling myself that I can still avoid the snoring issue :)

Thanks Ellen! Me too! Funny I am considering that failing the test is the desired outcome? Sorta? Kinda?

Hi Kath, Help. Hmmm. Like with housecleaning, you mean? Oh, no. That's not what you were referring to?
Well - at least these hearing tests don't hurt or take any intelligence.

Should be an interesting day for me - hope you all have a little unexpected sparkle in your day ;-)

Heavy sigh... today was a good example of "you get what you pay for".
Paid nothing for the hearing screening - got nothing in return.
While the audiologist did note a difference in the function of my 2 ears, he was underwhelmed I guess. Told me I should go to my doctor for a comprehensive test.

Came home and asked Ron "I DO have a bad ear, right?"
He said "Right!"
I asked "Then why don't they believe me?"
He replied "Cuz they don't sleep with you!"
Hmmm... I'm taking that to mean it is more apparent when my good ear is on the pillow?
I'm not crazy...I'm not crazy...I'm not crazy!

Tim's name is spelled right now on the meetup thread (feeling sooo better) - and I find out that Jeremy is gonna be there too! Very cool! I wish it was as easy to get you all to Bath as it is to get you on my PC!
http://www.librarything.com/topic/137429#

There's you answer! You need to sleep with the audiologist!

Things are going nicely for you again.. the meetup will be good.
You will get to meet the maker...
and even your weather is good!

You are not crazy. Although Kath does have an interesting idea.....
No, really, trust yourself, Cee. You have been living with those ears and their hearing for a long time. You may not cross some threshold for "hard of hearing," but it seems like it would be good to get some sense of why your hearing in that ear is deteriorating.

NO thanks, Kath. I like to sleep in my own bed - no audiologists! But if they drive me crazy enough, I may have to resort to just that. *sigh*

Hi Ellen! Right! My ears for a long time - I think I know my own ears! I did have the thought that perhaps it's not my ear, but my brain. I worry a lot about my brain. I know there's some slippage there!
But - if that was the case, wouldn't both my ears seem the same? How deaf do you have to be to get help? Good grief!
"...it seems like it would be good to get some sense of why your hearing in that ear is deteriorating."
Exactly! If nothing else, would appreciate an explanation.

I am slightly disappointed that you don't find my suggestion helpful.....................

.............................what if I find you a cute one?...you can send me specs..

Sorry to hear that you didn't get the results you wanted at the doctor. Did they notice a difference in your left and right ears? When I had mine done last year I was told that I hear better in my left, but not enough to matter yet. (Affected from the headsets at work, too many loud noises over the years)

Claudia- Sorry, that your hearing results were inconclusive. Well, I guess it's better than bad news, however frustrating.
"I think I know my own ears!" I don't know, you live with your ears all your life and then find out, you really don't know them at all. Sad.

Mark....lol ( sorry Cee)

oh, Kath -
ok... mature female (not cuter than me), avid reader, granny gown, smells good, gets up early with the dog (quietly) and makes coffee. Oh! I think I want a wife!

Hi Chelle, Yeah there is a difference.
500 mz: R 25 L 20
1000mz: R 30 L 15
2000mz: R 30 L 10
40000mz: R 45 L 30

You don't want to get above 25 I was told. But there is (imho) quite a difference in some levels. R ear is the bummer.

This was essentially the same hearing screening test they give to kids in school :PPP~

LOL! Mark!
Whatever made me think I really knew my own ears???

If I were an audiologist I might fit the bill... lol

Anytime, Kath. Bring Dunkers ;-)
Try to be here in time for the mini-meetup next week.

I bet he would love walking along the beach...I know I would!

Oh well.. another thing to dream about :)

So is it almost time for your friends to get their boats in the water?

I am sure it will be another happy day for you, so enjoy!

Hi Kath! I've been so busy with my own life issues, I don't know what the rest of the town is doing. If I had a boat, it would def be in the water by now. Still a little early for the majority.

Great day to finally get to polishing my floor! Oh joy!
Seems like everything I start lately gets interrupted - hope I can finish this floor especially since that will finish the sitting room and make it useful again.

Almost finished with Unlikely Harold - I keep falling asleep on him. He is in quite a mess right now and I hate to leave him like that :(

HEY CEE, (that was for the right ear) just canoeing up the coast to see how things are in Maine. All the ear talk is ROTF funny.
My canoe will not be waiting around for the meet-up but it sounds like a nice time.
Enjoy the day!

Lynda - hahaha - physical impairments are much more bearable when we can smile or laugh about them and some of the comments here about hearing are sidesplitters!
I have no trouble with my hearing unless SWMBO is asking for even more money - my problem is -700 in both eyes requiring what Morphy beautifully terms coke bottle lenses. What about the blind guy that refused to do decimals......he couldn't see the point!

Mark and Kath, you're cracking me up. You too, Cee.
I know my own hearing is not what it once was (well, if one tells the truth, what is what it - or they - once was/were, really?), and P would tell you I'm getting hard of hearing. Or that I don't pay attention. She may be right about the second part, but I think she mumbles.....

Hope you finish todays project. I have a few that I want to start, but I also have a think or two holding me back.. complicated. I wouldn't mind sitting on a breezy, cool beach right now.. could you do that for me sometime soon?

Hey, Lynda! Thanks for speaking up there. lol
I LOVE canoes - but could only talk Ron into kayaks. I think he was afraid he would be the one doing all the work. Why does he think that way?

Hi Paul - All men have selective hearing! Cute decimal joke (lol)!
I realized this morning as I was in bed listening to the birds singing, if my left ear were as bad as my right, I would not hear them at all! Can only hear them when I'm laying on my right side. I have one ear doing all the work. Whatever.

Hahaha, Ellen! She's mumbling, huh? So that's what's going on! Everyone is mumbling! I think you may be right on that one :)

No problem, Kath! I imagine I'll be spending some quality time on the beach this weekend with the grands. They are so excited to come up and I can't wait to see them :)

OK... I got the library/sitting room together today. First draft anyway. Will see how it works out. I think it's lookin' good!
Then I finished my ER book The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry - I loved it! 4.5 stars
Interesting ending... review later.

Well I think I might have an idea what's going on:
This was essentially the same hearing screening test they give to kids in school

Those things don't work! Jeez!

My SIL had something called Sudden Spontaneous Hearing Loss. One day her hearing was fine (for an older person) and the next day she was totally deaf in one ear. Hearing aids were of no use. Something called a cochlear implant might help though. You need to see a good ear, nose and throat doc Cee.

Cee.... I have Harold Fry sitting here in a gorgeous pile of ARCs...and really want to get to it. so glad to hear you liked it.

Cee - I think Bonnie has a good point. When my youngest was little, I kept telling my husband that she couldn't hear right. He insisted that she was just stubborn and was choosing to ignore me (um...she IS very stubborn, so he did have a point, but Mom's know things). Anyway, we ended up taking her to an ear, nose and throat doc and guess what? I was right!! She had adenoids that weren't functioning properly - they were trapping fluid in her inner ear and the fluid became infected. They had to surgically remove both the adenoids and the viscous fluid that had been trapped. She has some permanent damage, but it is slight.

I know Bonnie. What did I expect for free? I walked in knowing I have a problem. I walked out with the advice to go see a doctor! Duh. So, I am making an appointment with a THIRD real medical doctor (ENT) to see if they can figure it all out. I'm bound to hit a good one eventually. If nothing else, I need an explanation of what's going on. Glad I don't need my ears to read!

Tina, It really is a good book imo. Sort of a walking adventure for the thinking man/woman. Now I want to go on an unlikely pilgrimage! And I almost feel like I've been on one with Harold!
I need to write a review but have so much to do - and company coming - I can't concentrate right now.

Of course you were right Mamie! Attentive and loving moms *do* know things! Glad to know you did moms proud and persevered. It probably helped your daughter's learning and social skills :)

I had so many ear infections when I was a kid - my problem could stem from that. But I've only been aware of this problem for the last 10 years (or so). Only! Geesh! And the past few years I think it is worse.
Obviously, I can function. But if this can be corrected, I'm ready. If not, tell me why not! That's my current mission.
***************
Company coming (Bridget and kids) and I feel like my house is topsy turvy. Thank goodness it's comfortable family. There are rooms in this house that look great - and rooms that look like we are moving (quite messy). Ah well - I can provide shelter, food and hugs! That's what really counts.

Maybe I can sort out a bit more today - but I need to save some energy for the grands!

Started Moonflower Vine last night. Didn't get far but it looks promising...

hmmm I guess I haven't made it here, yet.
I am so beat! And I have a nagging headache :PPPP

Nothing much going on, errands done for today and a book in hand.
I had the book Moonflower Vine, but I think I gave it away without reading it.
Or it is hidden away somewhere.

I planted more moonflowers the other day, we shall see....

Have fun with the family! I am a little envious of all the visiting!

Cee I hope you hear this message - Have a lovely weekend!

Kath You have a big weekend ahead of you - rest well tonight :)

I'll share my family with you if you come up;-)
Very foggy in Maine tonight
FD plant sale tomorrow morning ... then over to see Mom.
Probably to the beach at some point.

Loud and clear, Paul! Hope yours is a relaxing one :)

MY LIBRARY!
It's a start: needs a braided rug and another chair, I think.

Beautiful!

Morning Claudia- Love the library! I could be very comfortable there. Looks like plenty of good reading light. Have a great weekend and enjoy your company.

Ohhhhh...... Your library is exquisite. That shiny floor. Oh.

Claudia: I love your reading room -- I think you need another chair for visitors;) I have Moonflower Vine sitting around here somewhere... Maybe I should pick that up next. I'll be anxious to hear your comments on your ARC book -- sounds interesting.

Have a good weekend. These holiday weekends do get busy, don't they?

Hope fun is being had by all! Beaching too :)

Ceeeee! what a beautiful, cozy spot. I snicker at the hard wood chair. It seems to say "You can sit down to tell me what you have to tell me but then go". What does the scene outside your window?

She has a beautiful home, doesn't she :)
Sigh...

Is it still nice and cool there Cee? I have weather envy

Cee.....the library/reading room is gorgeous! I can just envision watching the seasons change through all the windows, and snuggling down when it gets cold. It's just perfect!

244: Oh my goodness, Cee, I absolutely adore your library. It is the opposite of mine. I have cherry paneling and built-in shelves. My window looks out on about a dozen tall trees and a bit of the lake view. It's almost like reading in a wooded glen whereas your reading spot is as light and airy as a Maine beach. It's no wonder I'm drawn toward such dark books while your reading is of a happier nature.

>244 -Cee-: Is that really your library? It looks like a magazine photo shoot photo! I mean that as a compliment really :) It looks a gorgeous place for reading. Gotta have that reading light!

>244 -Cee-: Wahh! I want that room! It's just so beautiful. And what a nice spot to curl up with a good book. Just lovely Cee.

What a lovely library! So light and airy. I want to go to there!

I hope you're having a great weekend!

Wow Claudia, that's it, I'm inviting myself over! That library just looks too inviting!

How I'd love to be there at the meet up. Would be wonderful to meet you in person.

I hate when doctors don't take complaints seriously. You just have to keep at it till you find someone who'll listen to you (no pun intended).

Hugs my dear. xx

How lovely, Cee! What a wonderfully inviting room - I would never want to leave it. Hope you had a fun filled and relaxing weekend.

Yikes - this has got to be the most behind I have ever been in my own thread! Bridget and the kids left last night - and as usual they left us happy and exhausted. We had picture perfect weather for the beach - and surprisingly, not too many people!

Nice to see all of you dropping by - thanks!

Kath, I know you must have had some hot uncomfortable weather this weekend - I so wanted to share ours with you. *whispering - we have not had any nasty hot weather yet - it's been awesome* Hope the baptism went well... was thinking of you all :)

Ah, Mark... you must be getting old LOL You noticed all the great light in my reading room for easy reading! It does become important. My mom used to yell at me all the time when I was a kid to stop reading in the dark and turn on a light! She said I would ruin my eyes. Maybe she was right?

Lucy - Thanks for noticing my shiny floor ;-) It took a bit of work to get it that way - and now I'm thinking of getting a large braided rug to throw in there for some color and texture. Never had one before - so I don't know the pros and cons.

Hi Beth! Thanks... I think you are right. Another chair for a companion is needed - when I get around to feeling like I want one, I guess. Right now I love the quiet and the fact that my need for privacy is well respected. I'll have to force myself to write my review of Unlikely Harold now. The further I get away from it, the more I forget. Maybe I'll read it again ;-)

Lynda, You figured me out!
""You can sit down to tell me what you have to tell me but then go" Actually, it's even worse than that. That little wooden chair is a bit wobbly under adult weight. But, I love it. It was hand carved and there is an inscription of love under the seat :)
The scene outside the big window on the right is trees, tidal cove, and trees on the other side of cove. It's a SW exposure so perfect for plants... and lots of wildlife viewing if you sit long enough to catch it. Very peaceful.

Hi Tina! It's truly a beautiful view (imho) for watching the seasons change. It would take a book of photos and meditations to really describe it. Great place to snuggle with an afghan in the winter - or sit under the ceiling fan with all the windows open to the seabreezes on a hot day. No need for A/C ;-)

Donna Your library sounds lovely too! Since I have lots of trees outside my windows, too, I feel quite "wooded" and shady when the leaves come in. They're working on it - slowly...
My reading is not always happy - it's just what I've been drawn to lately - but I never care for violence and attitude. Can't handle it.
I've always wanted my shelves built-in, but Ron doesn't feel up to the challenge and it'd be cost prohibitive to have someone else do it for me.

Well, Megan, I am excited to have my reading room back!

Thanks, Bonnie! I may have to squeeze a few more bookshelves in there when I get to my living room improvement phase. It'll still be cozy though - probably more so - LOL

Come anytime, Joanne! I'll make sure there is a comfy chair here for you :)

It all sounds so wonderful. If you ever decide to become a B&B let me know.
Color me green ...

kids still there?
plan for today?

Hi Ilana! Would love to have you here ;-) I do hope we will meet someday...somewhere. I wish everyone could come to the meet-up on Wednesday. It would be great.
I fully intend to make another apppointment with another ear doctor and hope to get some answers.

Hi Mamie - I only regret not having a real wood-burning fireplace in there. I have a little electric stove-looking heater - bottom right hand corner of picture - if I need more heat (haven't used it yet in 4 years). Makes a good plant stand though :P

My grandkids are growing so very fast again... they look different everytime I see them. Waaaah! What happened to the babies? They still let me hug and kiss them... but ... well, I'm afraid it is just polite tolerance now.
I took a picture of my Sam (almost a teen - ack!) in her crazy sense of morning fashion making breakfast. Will try to post soon. We all had great fun. Even the weather was perfect.
I had a wonderful weekend - hope you all did too!
Will try to get around to the threads soon - have lots to do still to get our bedroom in shape so we can move in again. Gotta sort through all the crap Mom accumulated and she is a pack rat. Most of it can probably be tossed - but I have to go through it all first.

Oops! Hi again Kath!
Kids left last night late.
You are welcome anytime.
Today, gonna tackle the bedroom and closet.
Do they rent bulldozers? *heavy sigh*

Will go visit Mom a bit later this afternoon as she probably needs a few groceries for her breakfasts in her apt. There was another reason I wanted to go out, but didn't write it down and now forget :P It'll come to me.

Hi Cee ... glad you had a good visit with the grandkids. I hope you take some time today to relax after all the cleaning I know you'll be doing, nevermind the bedroom and closet.

Hi Cee,
I bet grandkids grow even faster than own kids!
How is your mum settling in at her new home? (you might have said and I missed it, so sorry if you have)

Cee, your library is charming. It looks like a wonderful place to sit and read while enjoying a cup of tea or a glass of wine, and while everyone around you is mumbling..... :-)

Hi Caro! I was just over at your thread reading about your bat adventures! Hope they are over now :}
Well, cleaning out the closet is relaxing compared to running with the grandkids! We started moving our clothes back downstairs - it's looking like we will be down here soon. Still have the bathroom and bedroom to spiff up. Getting excited to have our space back :)

Hi Megan! Yes grands do grow much, much faster - you are wiser than your years!
My Mum is settling slowly but surely. Actually, considering her condition and all, she's doing very well and not all that slow about it. It's only been 2 weeks and she is really doing great - making friends and jumping into available activities. She still has her personal, private, quiet times - but is making friends too. It's really the perfect place for her - I think.

Gotta go get supper on the table - chicken pot pie.
Oh, btw, NOT homemade but very yummy!

Hi Claudia- Just a quick check-in! Hope you had a good day and hope you enjoyed the grandkids!

LOL Ellen! Won't be long and even the mumbling will go away, I imagine. I do like quiet - but....

Hey Mark, I just don't know why you are still kind enough to check out my thread - there's hardly ever any book stuff. You are loyal and true. You have more hope for me than I have for myself. Trying to climb back on the reading wagon :)

Mine has no book stuff either, most times.. and when it does.. no one mentions it .. lol

I know what you mean, Kath. I guess RL is not letting up on us quite yet... miles to go before I read (very much).

Feeling any different yet???

closer to the vortex :P

Good morning! How are you ? What huge plan do you have to fill your day today ?

Hi Kath!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!
Got work to do at the GHS updating database and making labels. Will be pushing out the TIDE this week, I expect.

We are also putting on a Celebration of Art this summer. I am the contact person for all the artists to register and tell me what they need to exhibit. That's in full swing now though the Celebration is in July. I'd be much happier if they had these things in December or February... but I'd be the only one with a smile on my face :-)

Have spent the night and morning listening to small thunderstorms rolling by. Hope you got your rain.

We're having whopper storms today too! And lots of rain.

Cee - I have noticed the acceleration of time as my own age progresses relentlessly and ocassionally gracefully towards a half century. Blink and Yasmyne is having whooping cough, blink again and its febrile fits blink a third time and boys are hanging around waiting for her to deign to look out at them from a window or warn them that her crazy father is about to chase them from the grounds!

>276 PaulCranswick: poor Yamyne has been through a lot, Paul. No wonder you're chasing the boys away....

Hope the thunderstorms are dramatic and quick for you Cee :)

#29 The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
4.5 stars - I loved reading this one!



Harold received a letter from Queenie a friend he had not heard from in many years. It was a good-bye letter because she had cancer. Harold wrote a rather dry reply and went to post it at the nearest mailbox while fighting emotions that began to re-surface to haunt him. This began an impossible journey on foot for hundreds of miles across England, and more particularly into his soul exploring deep personal truths of despair, love, angst, and compassion. What kept him going? He wanted to believe that if Queenie knew he was coming, she would hold on to life until he got there.

During his trek Harold made discoveries about himself, his family, and indeed humanity itself. Ill prepared to cover the distance that stretched between him and his dying friend, he struggled through a painful metamorphosis – both physically and spiritually. The reader is given bits of information along the way to unravel the real burden Harold carries.

This is a cleverly written book in its style and format. The important characters were well-drawn and though seemingly random in the story were strategic in the unfolding of the journey. Harold’s adventure did not progress in a straight line. The dangers of the terrain he covered on foot reflected the path he was following in his heart. Whether he made it or not is really beside the point. It’s an easy read, but a difficult pilgrimage.

Cee - A thumb for your lovely review! That sounds like one for the list! Hope you are having a great day and getting some time to yourself.

Thanks, Mamie!
After visiting your new thread, I realize I need to do it myself - soon! Maybe tomorrow with pictures of our mini-meetup :)

That sounds like some book ~ wow ......

And thank you for the good wishes.. you sure aren't letting any grass grow under your feet ..
busy woman! Even your thread is busy !

I loved the book just from your review, Cee. Definitely one for my obese wish list .. if I don't succumb and just go buy a copy before the week is out.

Lovely review Cee - and a great idea for a story. And what a gracious and tidy home you have! (small sigh of envy)

Why am I awake? I am still sleepy :P
Whatcha doing today ? More GHS work?
When will you do nothing or a day?

I would like to do nothing today, but that is soooo not going to happen. Oh, well! Morning, Cee!

Good morning all!

Kath, You don't sound any older to me ;-)
I don't know why my thread is busy at all. It seems to be turning into an interactive diary for me... I could never do this anywhere else. I just trust the 75ers LT crowd, I guess.

Got all my GHS stuff done for now. Waiting for the TIDE to arrive - today or tomorrow??? Guessing it will go out on Friday.

Caro, I forgot to mention that Unlikely Harold is an ER book and a first novel for Rachel Joyce. It was the best ARC (in terms of publishing details) I've read. Either there were no errors or I was too involved in the story to pick them up. Small mistakes make me crazy... not in this book. Looks like it will be released July 24th.

Hi Prue, Thanks. My home is not really gracious nor tidy. My reading room is just getting started and rather sterile at the moment. Needs warmth. It will get more inviting and more messy with time. LOL

Hi Mamie! Yesterday I was happy to be retired. I got up early and tired out quickly for some strange reason - so I went back to bed for a 3 hour nap. Perhaps it was the rolling thunderstorms the night before that kept me awake. But hey! I didn't have to drag myself to work! ;-)

**************
Today I'm going to the Bath Library to listen to Tim Spalding talk about LT... Jeremy will be there too! Hope to meet up with Tina (tututhefirst) and remember the camera. I'm not a great photographer - so stop salivating. I'll do what I can.

Also won another ER book that when I checked the LT oracle it said I probably won't like! Huh? Well, at least I'm happy to see LT is taking chances and not just sending me animal books (which I do love).

Hope everyone has a great day!

Morning Claudia- Have a great day today! Enjoy Tim and Tina! I snagged an ER book too, I'm very pleased about.

What did you win, Mark?

Logavina Street by Barbara Demick. I loved her book Nothing to Envy, earlier in the year. I am pleased.
What time do you take off for Bath?

I think I requested that one too, Mark. Will be interested in what you think of it.
Instead I got My Struggle: Book One which also looked interesting.

I'll be leaving for Bath in about an hour. Will be interesting to see what Tim and Jeremy think about LT. There's so much more to it than I will ever use. Also excited to meet Tina :)

Wah! I want to hear all about it, please?

Ok, ok, Kath! Wait till I go and get back - sheesh!
I just wish I could pick you up on the way....

me too :(

Have fun in the Bath with Tim, Jeremy and Tina! Don't forget PICTURES!! :)

I am so late here

...want to say..I'm glad you got your Mom settled

>244 -Cee-: Forget it...if that is your Library...you don't want to see my House, at all...I have the Books...not the Organization...but, i'm glad you have your House back

I can't keep up, here.....you're still my "C"

Boy, LTers are clearly partying hardy!

*waits excitedly for news*

Exciting!
Looking forward for news......
*drums fingers on desk*
Are you back yet?
;)

Wondering where the pictures are from the meet-up?..................Waits impatiently..........

What a day you had planned, Cee! I'm not drumming my fingers, not checking your thread every three seconds, just hoping you had a great time.

Just checking..... :-x

O, Cee's thread again? Wait.. sorry I was headed to... >>>>>>over there

Ack! I just lost everything!
Will have to try this again - :PPPPPPPPPPPP

OK. I'm still here. Good grief!

Forgot what I said...

Don't let us distract you, Cee....

Too much pressure, Cee? 'Cause we can wait.

See how nice we're waiting?

Dropped by to admire your library. I'd forgotten today was Bath day. I'll drop by again to see the photos...

Did you finally try a couple of those beers, or what?

ok. ok. calm down -

We had a great time today at the Bath Library. I saw Tina (tututhefirst) coming in and immediately knew it was her!
Tim and Jeremy gave a great presentation - though I admit it all made me a little dizzy. I knew there would be a lot more to LT than I knew about - and there is! Don't ask me what right now - lol! Will have to do some exploring. There's a lot of fun to be had.

So, Tina was a good girl! She brought her camera and insisted someone take our picture so we wouldn't be kicked off the 75er Group. She has pictures in her camera and will email to me. Don't know if she got it on her own thread yet.

When the Bath librarians found out Tina and I were just meeting for the first time today after chatting online - they were so excited they had to take our picture for their newsletter (I think?) I fear we are a story-in-the-making.

Anyway, Tina made a few requests of Tim during Q&A, pictures were taken and we then scooted over to lunch at the Starlite Cafe. It was 1:45. They close at 2:00. But hey! We were in!
Tim, Tina, Jeremy, the library's director and moi. Great sandwiches and conversation. Parted to go our separate ways with thoughts of LT dancing in our heads.

No, we did not go to a single bookshop.
Well, I did sneak into one right before I went to the library but did not buy anything - yet. May go back tomorrow.
There were a few books of interest ;-)

I typed this out TWICE for y'all! Yes. I do love ya!
Wish you were ALL there. Did I already say that? Why, yes. I think I did.
TY for your patience!

Claudia- Sounds like a fantastic time and you don't sound tipsy or anything. The Wonderful World of LT just keeps on spinning.

http://www.librarything.com/topic/135096

Picture on TIna's thread - why I am telling you this, I don't know.

Mark - no beer today! Forgot about my fav pub with the only beer I like that I also don't remember the name of ....

Wow, Cee, I think you just had the meetup of the year! Lunch with Tim. Awesome!

Agree, Donna!

OK... I reeeeeeallly need to start a new thread!
I think I see flashing lights in my rearview mirror :{
Will work on it....

I will be pleased to move this to your new thread, too!

Sounds like a great time!!!

How did you do that?

magic, of course !

It's a wonderful pic :)

OIC! (hehehe) Of course!
Thanks.

:) any time

There is my happy friend! But no beer or book! What??

I emailed you one, too