(Bahzah) Cee's August-Hot Adventures

What's great about August in New England?
WILDFLOWERS - everywhere!



Welcome to All !

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)

JUNE
#30 The Moonflower Vine by Jetta Carleton (4 stars) *
#31 Auraria by Tim Westover (3.7 stars)
#32 The Call by Yannick Murphy. (4.5 stars)

JULY
#33 "Frost, You Say?" by Marshall Dodge (3.8 stars)
#34 Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury (5 stars)
#35 Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick (4.25 stars) *
#36 South of the Northeast Kingdom by David Mamet (4 stars) *
#37 The Coroner's Lunch by Colin Cotterill (3.8 stars)
#38 River of Smoke by Amitav Ghosh (4 stars)
#39 Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury (4 stars)
#40 In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson (3.8 stars)

AUGUST
#41 Thirty Three Teeth by Colin Cotterill (4 stars)
#42 The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (3.8 stars) *
#43 A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith (4.5 stars)
#44 The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery (4.5 stars) *
#45 The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman (4.4 stars)
#46 Fast Lane on a Dirt Road by Joe Sherman (4.5 stars)
#47 The Red Pony by John Steinbeck (4 stars)
#48 Disco for the Departed by Colin Cotterill (4 stars)

#39 Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury (4 stars)


Another great read from Ray Bradbury.
A carnival of horror - a story of desire and escape.
What it's like to be young; what it's like to be old...

I am currently reading In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larsen.
This Larsen guy can bring you anywhere. This time it's to Berlin, Germany in the years of the rise of Hitler. Engaging and viewed from a different perspective. About 2/3 of the way through and finding it an interesting read.

Claudia- I like your colorful August thread! Of course, I also loved Something Wicked and I enjoyed the Larsen book too. He's a good NF writer.

I like your description of SWTWC... perfect!

I was tempted to pick up my copy of In The Garden of Beasts.. but since I am going to join the GR from
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, I will liet it stay on the shelf for now. I am going to read ( I think) Pigeon Pie Mystery, a little item I scored from Vine. The plan is to read both at once, not sure if that will happen or if one will win out over another. Time will tell. Have fun Tiding...

Terrific pics of wildflowers, Cee!
So, you were in VT? We drove through the nw corner on our way back home and ferried Lake Champlain to NY. Gorgeous area which deserves a longer visit.
Glad you back home, safe and sound.

Hi Mark! No surprise you have read and loved my two latest! You are quite right about Larsen. I just wish I could inhale books at your rate of consumption... still I chug along as best I can and I have your thread to refer to when I need another great suggestion :-)

Hey Kath - Thanks. I'm pretty sure you could blast thru the Larsen book quickly... and think you would like it. It's time will come. I just got a new (used) copy of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn in the mail to replace the musty/stinky free copy I got at the library sale. Depending on how things shape up around here, I may join the GR - but I have not been too successful with GRs latley.

Thanks Lynda! Northern VT was really lovely and very rural - I love the ocean and coast, but the mountains were a nice change of pace.
Would LOVE to go back when it snows ;-)

************************
So today I need to gear up again - vacation is over - back to work. I was hoping an army of elves would have cleaned my house from top to bottom while I was gone. But no. Maybe I am reading too many fantasies!??!

Hope everyone has a day with a good surprise in it!

Happy new thread, Cee! Love the gorgeous flowers up top! I am also a big fan of your two latest reads - loved both of those books. I will be participating in the GR for A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, so I do hope you join in. A lot of times with the GRs, I just check in at the beginning and then follow the thread at my own pace - it's fun to see everyone's thoughts on the book.

Hope your day is full of wonder!

Welcome home and Happy new thread for August! Just from one week away the sounds and feel outside has changed.... late summer has arrived.

Nice to see you safely ensconced in your new thread. Back from the highlands of rural Vermont. If it wasn't you I would begrudge the fresh mountain air while I am broiling in the heat haze here in KL. X

Love the wildflowers. Have been thinking I would do flowers for August, too, but on my morning run I have developed (or begun developing...) a new idea...... heh

Mamie - I just finished a book so maybe I will have time to join in the GR for ATGIB. Will check out when that starts...

Lucy - Thanks. And I know what you mean. When we left VT and drove home, it felt later in the season. Seeing summer fade a little makes my heart sing... but I know there's a lot of warm weather left.

Paul - I feel so bad for people who have hot weather year round. The price for all that beauty, I fear.

Ellen - You mean you can think and run at the same time???? Not sure I could manage that one. Can't wait to see your developing idea ;-)

Cee, are you kidding???? I do my absolutely best thinking while running. It's one of the things I like so much about it. It's also why I most prefer to run alone, but due to safety reasons I often run with a buddy.

#40 In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson (3.8 stars)



I wasn't inclined to read this when it first came out since I need to be in the right frame of mind to read about Hitler's Germany. But, my RL book club is reading it and Erik Larson wrote it - so I caved.

This book does not disappoint. In fact, it presented a fresh interpretation of well worn history through various personal observations during the rise of Hitler's power. Not overly graphic or shocking this story conveyed the epidemic fear on both sides, and in conclusion a deep sadness.

Ellen, I guess we all have a "best place to think". My place is in the shower. I've had so many great ideas and revelations under streams of warm water. lol

Hi cee,
lovely new thread, heralding the coming of Spring for me anyway :)
Hope you are having a great day.

Best place to think? Nope. Don't have one. Maybe the porch? Sometimes I'm not sure that I still think.. lol
So ITGOB looks good. It does not look like I want to read it just this minute. I have two sitting here... one is A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and one is Pigeon Pie Mystery I am hoping to read Pigeon Pie as my main read and just read Brooklyn in the background.. but we shall see. I will be perfectly happy if this afternoon is not a repeat of yesterday afternoon.

Getting the Tide out? What else?

What else? What else? Do you have any idea how hard it is to get the TIDE out? It's exhausting! lol

I don't think that far ahead - one thing at a time. Still have a stack of laundry to catch up on and time to choose a new book which I think will be A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Gotta look for the GR thread.
Also gotta get outta here - catch ya'll later!

Morning Cee! Just to help you out (and encourage you), here is the link to the thread:

Group Read of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

And thanks for getting the tide out!

Nice new thread Cee!

I've seen the Larson book so many times at my local Costco and for some reason never had the urge to pick that one up. Your review has perked my interest though! I hope you are having a great day and recovering from your vacation. :)

See? I knew you could do it.
Tide out, laundry in, book chosen... all done! lol

Hi Megan - I am looking at flowers that usher out the warm season and you are looking forward to the first signs of Spring! I love it! The earth is so interesting and beautiful - don'tcha think?

Hi Mamie - Thanks for the link :-) I signed on for ATGIB. And - I try to do my part to help the rhythm of the earth... pushing the tide out and all ;-) Tough work that.

Hi Valerie - Thanks! I'm glad now my book club chose In the Garden of Beasts or else I might never have read it.

Ah, Kath - You have too much confidence in me. How can that be when I have so little myself?
I have my TIDE team working like a well-oiled machine now. I do consider that an accomplishment since they are all 80+. I love them all :-)

Hi, Cee! Lovely new thread here. Wildflowers, Ray Bradbury, Erik Larson . . . who could ask for anything more?

Yeah...I can probably say the same of LT here. So many books that I don't think I would have picked up on my own, but the glowing reviews here tend to push into unknown waters. Not that I mind, of course. :)

Good morning Cee...is today a nothing special to do day yet?
That is what I am hoping for.. I didn't read a thing yesterday..
too much to do. Today I hope. This is one of those days where I woke up sleepy.
Dislike. I seriously think I might have been able to sleep till, well.. later than nearly 7.

I guess we'll see what the day will offer.

Maybe a nap?

Hi Terri - I would only ask for one thing more - the first frost ;-)

Valerie - I keep telling myself - OK. You have enough books for a long while. Don't look at the blue print anymore. But... well... I don't want to miss anything. *sigh*

Well, Kath - I have to take Mom to the dr this afternoon. Routine followup to her cortisone injection.
A mere 10 min appt will take up most of the afternoon.
Will have to go to the grocery store for Mom, too.
Before we left for our week vacation I stocked her up on basic groceries including 3 containers of ice cream (ya know - the almost half gallons) for her night time snack.
She ate all three while we were gone and ran out. Huh?
That was supposed to last about a month!
Not to mention she can get it at any meal they serve her.
I can't keep buying her food - that's all supposed to be included in the rent. I wonder if she is skipping meals?
I'll have to inquire... oy.

Looks like an icky, sticky day today. Not 100 degrees, I admit, but uncomfortable nonetheless. Cloudy right now and I hope it stays that way :)

I'm guessing mom decided to up her daily ice cream dessert to after every meal? lol

Maybe she forgets to go to meals? ( cause she is full of ice cream ) and so has to make her own?

Oh well.. I hope you do something for Cee while you are out... spcial coffee? book? nail polish?

I do believe when you are 89 you can have all the ice cream you want - but geesh! I'm sure she would forget meals but they do keep track of her attendance and what she eats - or at least they are supposed to. I know they remind her for every meal. I don't want to be worrying about this.

The only thing that will be special for me today will be coming home. I had all my "specials" last week - back to muddling through the summer. I'm way down from the crazy happy I was a month ago... it lasted a long time though. Was nice while it lasted ;-)

Hope your afternoon is pleasant and quiet after a nice refreshing swim.

Don't worry about it. She is not going to be allowed to starve. Maybe she is just having a hungry week ? :)
Or maybe she is having Ice Cream parties...

I asked her about that (Ice cream parties). She denies it - but...
I do know everytime someone visits her she offers them ice cream. *heavy sigh* When do I get to be 89, live in a nice place that does all my cleaning and cooking, and eat ice cream all day???

Well.. I have always been bad at math....but...

Ice cream, I have a funny anecdote about ice cream I'll tell you about later. Just to say I totally understand your mum. For now, stopping by to visit your pretty new thread. I love wildflowers! Enjoyed your review of In the Garden of Beasts, and it's the first time I've felt inclined to add it to the wishlist, prob. because of you saying you have to be in the right mood to read about that time and place and main actors. I feel very much the same way and usually am not. I mean disposed to it. But when I am, I usually find it plenty interesting.

Hugs. Quick and light ones, because it's muggy over here too. xx

>31 -Cee-: ice cream parties! Midnight feasts. chuckle, sorry Cee, I hope it not too much of a worry for you but it does sound kind of funny!

My partners dad came over the other night with 3 x 2 litre containers of ice cream. And dare I say it, but NZ does a pretty delicious creamy ice cream. So needless to say, with my sore throat earlier this week I tore through a fair amount of it!

So - I admit I do not understand ice cream addicts lovers!
3 containers in ONE week ??? - by a little old lady living by herself???
At least you had a legitimate ailment and needed to apply cold to the affected area, Megan.
Right now it is very cool and very foggy in our own forest. YAY!
Reminds me of your picture.

Thanks for the hugs, Ilana!
Without getting in too deep, I will say that most of what I have read about Nazi Germany leaves me with so many questions about how it all could have happened. In the Garden of Beasts focuses more on the insidious daily changes in an environment of fear and not exclusively on the shocking atrocities. It was different.

So did you get any info on mom's eating habits? Does she go to meals?
( I bet she does) Feeling better ?
:)

I'm still in the dark about the ice cream, Kath. Tomorrow we have to go there again as they are having a family & friends summer cook-out. I'm waiting to snag a few staff members then.
It's gonna be hot and horrible - hope we get a promised thunder shower so they will move it inside to a/c. :PPPP
(Sorry to be complaining so much about summer. I get sick of hearing myself think.) I might jump in the pond.

Sorry... I hate it hot too.. I went to mysister's to escape.
Wanna come? We're scary in our swim suits tho

Thanks for the invite - but I don't think I even have a bathing suit. Even scarier! :pppp~~~~
(Haven't worshiped the sun for years.)

I do remember from years past that a dip in the pool is a very nice way to cool off! If I want to jump in the ocean, it would be flash freeze! hmm... maybe...

89 and overdosing on ice cream?? Sounds like heaven to me Cee. You hit me with a big BB with In the Garden of Beasts. I've known about it but it's been on the back burner

lovely new thread! Those wildflowers are so pretty

I am envious of your mom, I would love to eat ice cream everyday! I guess that is something to look forward to about growing older

Actually, I am not so much sun worshipping as forcing myself to exercise. Too hot to walk.
This seemed like a good alternative. Good aside from the fact that the moving water makes me feel nauseated and the sun makes my skin crispy. Still. Aside from those thing ( ouch) . An added benefit is that I get to see the kids. Oliver is pretty much in constant motion and screams quite often. It is sort of his way of saying excuse me... I need everyones attention. ( every 3 minutes or so ) Owen however.. is blissfully happy in his little floaty, or in my arms :) He plays now.. and when he put his hand by my lips and I kissed it, he did it over and over.. Then I kissed his toes, and he did the same. He gurgles and giggles and I was so happy to see his bliss ..... so I will do it again :)

Have fun at the cook out :) and do wear sun screen....( ouch)

Stopping to say Hi, so I can find you again! I haven't been around much these last few weeks. Been busy with work and Ty's baseball games. Looks like you've been busy too!!

Hope you have a good weekend!!! Happy Reading!!!

Hi Bonnie, I know, huh? I should lighten up re the ice cream. I think it shocked me more than anything. :-}
Hope you get a chance to read In the Garden of the Beasts. It just feels like another piece of the puzzle.

Hi Chelle, I don't care so much about the ice cream but I would love to have someone do all my cooking and cleaning! That's what I look forward to (if I live that long and have any money left). Thanks for stopping by! You are a busy lady right about now! Good luck with all your plans :-)

Hi Kath, It seems Oliver is starting to feel the pinch of sharing attention with Owen??? Hard lesson after being an only child for awhile. If only kids would realize they would get more positive attention by being sweet and not settle for the negative attention. Ah well - it's all a process. Baby snuggling is a precious gift ;-)

Hi Tammy, Yes - I've been busy for sure (and sick for two weeks on top of it). Then vacation for a week. Glad July is a thing of the past - August looks a bit better except for the weather. Thanks for stopping by!

*****************
I may spend some time in the basement today - it's cooler and I need to clean out some of the clutter. I expect we will have enough to eat at the cookout so I will NOT have to make any supper. ;-)

Basements are a life saver in the summers! We spend at least 1-2 weeks out of the year hibernating down there because we don't have AC. But in the winters, ouch, wouldn't want to be stuck down there because it's frrreeezing! I hope you have a great time at the cookout and yay for not having to cook! :)

Wishing you a wonderful weekend, Cee!

>37 -Cee-: I love the term "cook-out", to me it conjures up thoughts of a campfire and camping and maybe even an earth oven? I think it just refers to a BBQ though doesnt it?

I Hope the ice cream mystery is solved asap, Im keen to figure out what is happening too. You need to read some Nancy Drew and get sleuthing!

Hi Valerie! The cookout worked just right. Yummy food and was not hungry for supper ;-) They had everything set up in the shade and it wasn't bad at all. They even provided a decent breeze and lots of old time music '30s, '40s, '50s.

Thanks Lynda! Same for you :)

Hi Megan! yup cook-out = BBQ
btw - you have lots of NZ expressions I love too.
I don't think the ice cream mystery will ever be solved :{
As a matter of fact I'm beginning to wonder if they are all in cahoots. I do know everytime someone visits Mom she offers them ice cream. Perhaps on these warm days the staff and neighbors are taking her up on the offers???? All I can do is guess at this point. Not a very good Nancy Drew, I fear.

Got some rain last night but it will still be quite warm today, they say. No comments... how's that for restraint?

#41 Thirty Three Teeth by Colin Cotterill (4 stars)



This Dr Siri series is a hoot! Oh sure there are murders, spirits, and high suspense, but it still manages to be fun.
The characters are lovable and the pages fly by.
Perfect summer reading.
"Hot, isn't it?" "Damned hot." lol

:) I'm glad to see so many enjoying this series. Maybe some day I will give it a go.. now is just not right for me .. How was yesterday? Did it go well? Did you melt? What is on the agenda for today?

Hmm Wonder if I missed you this morning? I am late to get here..
well happy day to you anyway..
hugs

Ah Kath... I'm surprised you are avoiding this series. I think you would enjoy it immensely. But - I know you are a free spirit. ;-)

The cookout was much better than anticipated. I expected it would be pure torture but the food was good and it was comfortable in the shade where the tables were all set up.

Today - dunno yet.

I'm not avoiding it.. I just can't afford another series...
I haven't been able to find it in libraries locally.. so I am waiting to see if I can get them
later, you know? But they do sound fun.

Today? well whatever it is, I hope it's good!

Cee - You are right the series is a hoot. Did you have a go at counting your teeth along with Dr. Siri to take the gifted test? Hope you are having a good weekend.

Good Morning !!!! Is it cool there? It is so muggy here, I think I walked about 4 inches off the ground
this morning when I went out with Dunkers ..just on the thick air. GAH

I think I am going to make Spanish Chicken today.. and no pool ( good) so reading, here I come!
Weird dreams last night.. one was about a car part... baffling.

Kid call day... so that is good. One week of Olympics down. Also good. Nothing else going on....
very good. How about you ?

Morning Cee - It's raining here, which is fabulous, and there is a rumor that there is also some cooler air behind the storm front - I am really hoping for some of that. Yesterday it was like soup outside - so sticky and humid, felt like we were deep in the Carolinas instead of the midwest. If it's gonna feel like the Carolinas, then I want that gorgeous scenery, too!!

I am picturing you stealthily infiltrating your Mom's place and hiding a video camera that records all the action at your Mom's freezer. It will be activated by some kind of motion detector that is trained on the freezer door so as not to record hours worth of meaningless video because, after all, your time is valuable.

"Where were you on the morning of August 5th at 2 am? Asleep you say? That's interesting because we have incriminating photos that place you at the freezer. We have pictures of your liason with the butter brickle! What do you have to say about that?"

Gee, Kath. That stinks that your library does not have the Siri series! That's where I am getting mine to read. I know what you mean about "another series" though. This one feels like a satisfying read while waiting for Penny's new book :)
Spent a bunch of time reading yesterday as it was too uncomfortable to do much else. So... I am about halfway through A Tree Grows in Brooklyn which I am not sure I like it as much as I should. Gotta check out the GR messages and see what others think.

Paul! You are too funny! Is there anything you don't count? LOLOL Since I have had my wisdom teeth extracted, I'm pretty sure I don't have 33 teeth. I have been somewhat short on wisdom though.

Cool and foggy today Kath - but oh so humid and clammy. Humidity 98% Temp 74
Nothing planned for today. We'll see what happens.
I was about to start dinner last night when Ron was toned out. He didn't get back til after 8 p at which time I was NOT gonna start cooking. So we had cereal and strawberries. First time I ever did that :{ or :} - haven't decided yet.

Hi Mamie! Another budding mystery writer! lol
If you want to finish that story, I'll have my answer and move on to the next in the series ;-)
Life is one mystery after another when you have Alzheimer's.
And I have a deep fear that I am following in Mom's footsteps.

Hope you are having a fun weekend...

Sounds lovely! I think it is definitely a thumbs up, cereal for dinner.

Dropping by to say hello... Way behind on the threads, after a week away and another week of computer woes. Pretty thread header!

So glad to see so many enjoying Dr Siri! I just broke down and bought Thirty-Three Teeth and am looking forward to starting it

#42 The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (3.8 stars)



A creative and thoughtful book which seemed to me a little disjointed for awhile but it all came together in the end. Reminded me a lot of a "Harry Potter" style book.

I like what Neil Gaiman said (in his Newbery Medal acceptance speech) about writing the finish of this book:
"I had set out to write a book about a childhood ... I was now writing about being a parent, and the fundamental most comical tragedy of parenthood: that if you do your job properly, if you, as a parent, raise your children well, they won't need you anymore... they go away."

Changed my mind. I don't like that at all. What was I thinking?

WTH???? Ron just got called out again! What is this a supper time ritual now? People just never seem to time their emergencies right :(
I am NOT having cereal for supper again. Gonna cook the damned turkey cutlets anyway - even if I have to eat them alone. Ron can have the leftovers when he gets home. :pppppp~~~~~~~~

So, Lucy, as you can see - I am not enamored of cereal for supper. *sigh* Maybe tonight I should go for blueberry pie and ice cream??? I hear it calling me ;-)
Hate to cook when it's hot - which it is.

Hi Katherine! Nice to see you here :-) Thanks. I'm afraid I have not been very good at keeping up myself lately.

Hi Chelle! I can't imagine reading much of anything in your shoes (and lovely ones they are) just now. But hope you love 33 Teeth!

Ah well, I will read them or not..( Siri) time will tell..
I approve of your decision to cook anyway and keep a plate for Ron...
No reason you should be cooking so late instead of being DONE.
Probably someone starting a fire while cooking their dinner :P
I am frequently amazed at the news, hearing how often people fall asleep while
cooking and start fires. Srsly.

Hope today is better in that reagard. and wonderful in all others :)

Hey Cee, Dr Siri sounds like a series I can cozy up to. On to the WL with hope of getting to them some time this millenium

Hi Kath,
Well, Ron came home from first call (car off road - jerk! ) just in time to sit down to supper :)
Unfortunately, he was immediately called back out for call #2 (swimming woman too far out, banged up on rocks when coming back to shore - jerk!).
So, I just sat down to a quiet supper with a big glass of wine and Ron had his when he got home. So. There.

Falling asleep while cooking? Weird. We did have one woman who passed out while cooking and burned herself. Luckily there were others around.

Hi Lynda,
I know what you mean. I didn't want to start any new series myself - but this was so tempting. It just seemed to fit what my cranky summer mood needed... the right mix of humor and a good story.

*************************
Got up to answer the call of nature last night and saw a HUGE spider on the floor - in the dark. Eeeeewwww!
It was THIS BIG, black, and hefty:
I------------------------------------------I
(I think)
Woke up my brave First Responder/Fireman and he got it!
Whew! It was a monster! Had a bit of trouble getting back to sleep.
WTH was it doing in my house? It has extensive woods outside where it is more appropriate and safer for a spider!
Hope it was a loner.

*waving* at Claudia

How did you see a black spider in the dark? Just curious. :)

Beats the heck outta me, Stasia! There was a nightlight on... but I think I have "spider radar". If there is one around, I will always see it first!

Good that you have radar... sounds terrible!

We have had a couple of big ones come in over the years, and wed dont even
live in the same sort of surrounding.. UGH! Too big for a spider.. way too big.

Confession? During the last weeks I was working.. I saw this ginourmous bug..
about the size of your spider, heading into Marcia's office. It wasn't a thousand legger, I don't think.
I had never seen anything like it before. I watched it go into the office and head for the stuff she kept under her desk.. and gently closed the door.

later

she found it.

It gave me way too much pleasure to hear the ensuing kerfluffle from a distance. .

eta

glad you had a nice dinner with wine. Poor Ron.. Is he always "on" or does he just do certain days or?

Hi Cee, I'm speed threading tonight and I think I'm failing miserably...

Dr Siri is a hoot! I have Disco for the Departed from the library. I just need to find the time. I also have In the Garden of the Beasts but I'm still waiting to be in the right mood. Summer doesn't feel right, somehow.

Spiders...*shudder*

eta - Love your flower pics!

Good morning to you!! What is on your agenda for today?
Anything fun? You can always take more pics of that beautiful place where you live to share :)
Say, the cove? the woods.. I meant to ask you.. have you been out on any boats this year? I think my fave pic of you is the one with the lobster boat :)

Nothing going on here... at all

#43 A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith (4.5 stars)

Moderate migraine this morning - weather changed for the better, head registered change. I'll take it anyway.

Book Club today - I think I will make it.

Fire training last night turned into new fire engine off the road (into a ditch) needed to be towed out. Moderate damage to engine. Shoulder of the road crumbled/collapsed - what a mess. Everyone shook up but ok.
Luckily it did not happen on the way to a real fire. Oi! Never a dull moment :PPPP

Later.

OMG

Sorry to hear that you aren't feeling well.. Hope you are much much better soon.
hugs

When I am 89, I will certainly eat ice cream every day. I may even do so when I am 79......

Cee, you're motivating me to break into Thirty-three Teeth, which I have on loan from the library. AND you're another one motivating me to get hold of a copy of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn!!

And I hope the turkey cutlets were yummy, even without Ron. :-|

Kath - Good story about Marcia ;-)
Unbelievably - we have not been boating yet this year. Will have to rectify that.
Migraine fading. Fire engine in "the truck hospital" for a couple weeks, I hear.

Joanne - I just reserved Disco for the Departed at the library today. It'll take awhile to get here.

Ellen - OK. We bought Mom 2 more half gallons of ice cream on Thursday. It's just about gone today!!!
If she is the one eating it - fine. But I kinda doubt she is pigging out that much. She has a small appetite.
I also doubt she is having ice cream parties - but you never know...

***********************
I just don't know what to say about A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I liked the second half much better. An excellent book overall, it has a strong focus on family and a touch of the magic of growing up. A good chunk of it could have been my own story minus any magic. Great characters, issues, and storyline.

We were picking out a new book to read for our book club (RL) and before I could open my mouth, someone rec A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I piped up I just finished this last night and seconded the rec. So - it was chosen!
YAY - I already have the Sept book read - lol.

Oh! forgot to say - I am now reading The Good, Good Pig and The Light Between Oceans an LTER book.

Speaking of which - I didn't see one book on the new ER list that interests me in the least! I'll have to take another look at it later. *shrug*

None of this month's ER books looked good to me either Cee. I'm about a hundred pages into A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and enjoying it too. How cool that your book club picked it so that you are all set for September. The book gods are smiling down on you:)

Hi Cee,
Spiders freak me to the bones, I dont want them to and think Im the kind of person who wouldnt be scared by such things, but I am. I can handle mice, gross messes, smelly things and bugs, but not spiders. Lucky there are no huge ones here, or poisonous ones. phew....I must get it from my Nan, as a war refugee she chose here over Australia based on the lack of spiders and snakes :)

eta: I addded A Tree grows in Brooklyn after seeing it on Kaths thread.

Woot! Good news about the September book :) no pressure to read a book someone else chose !

I liked The Light Between Oceans, I didn't LOVE it.. but it was an okay read.. a decent story.. I liked the characters.

Feeling better today?

eta

A trip to Peggy's Cove on your horizon? Lucky you!

Hi Bonnie, Sometimes I like when the book club picks out something I would not have normally read on my own. But this time I am happy to have this one all taken care of in advance. Crazy summer.

Hi Megan, There's just something creepy about spiders and snakes. *shudder* I think I take after your Nan too!

Hi Kath,
Have been searching for a place in NS that calls to me.
How about this one???

http://www.vrbo.com/418199

Hints of a book reader owning this place, too :-)

*****************
Today? We'll see what evolves.

Lisa recently recommended The Good, Good Pig. I hope you're enjoying it.

That looks beautiful Cee! When is the trip ?
How wonderful to travel all over like that!
I hope they have some good restaurants and maybe a book store, nearby.

Hi Ellen, I think it was Caro (cameling) who rec that one to me a long time ago and I am finally getting around to it. I'm not exactly sure as I did not note at the time who was making the rec. I'm loving it. I needed to read an animal book ;-)

Hi Kath, Haven't decided on the date yet. Probably Oct or Nov. It's not so very far away - a 10 hour drive it says. But I want to break it up a bit on the way up and back. I knida doubt there will be restaurants/stores. Looks pretty lonely :-)
Plus, I imagine any seasonal places will be well closed by then. Exactly the way I would like it. But Halifax is nearby - plenty there!

Read a good chunk of The Good, Good Pig. LOL that the author thinks she was an animal in her prior life and feels more akin to animals than humans. Love it!

Tip-toes in...any Cranky Old People around? Just checking. I also finished A Tree grows in Brooklyn too. We gave it the same rating but I actually preferred the 1st half. Funny, huh? Glad you are liking the Pig book!

HAH! here you are!

Hi Mark!
This is a sure bet to find a cranky old lady on this thread until the first frost! No need to tip-toe. Come on in and have a nice cold beer! According to the weather predictions we should get used to this scorching weather as it will become the new normal. Will have to rethink a/c for the whole damn house if that is true!

Some people just have a way of relating to animals and writing about it. These are some of my favorite books even tho not classic literature or dense earth shakers ;-)
The simple truths are sometimes best.

Hi Kath!
I am getting crankier by the hour. I keep getting kicked out of the internet and losing stuff. Then I can't get back in without completely shutting down :PPPP
Ron is having no trouble on his laptop - so I guess it's time to throw this stupid thing in the ocean!

Sorry to hear about the Internet problems. I hope the migraine is gone by now!

Cee - That vacation spot in NS looks fabulous! I want to go there! GORGEOUS!

Sorry about your computer woes.

Hi Stasia!!!
Migraine is gone - YAY! I don't know about the computer. It's so frustrating and I don't want to buy a new one or bring this in to be fixed (as they will only make it worse!).
It's great seeing you around again. How long do you have off? Are you the star pupil yet? I bet so!

Hi Mamie - Ron pointed out to me that there is no TV. And I said YAY! He's ok with that.
NS: You want to go there - I want to live there!
*dreamy sigh*

Nighty night ...may you wake up with enough points to immigrate :)

I would have to wake up about 25 y/o!

OK. I deleted a bunch of stuff in my email inbox last night and it was all back this morning! Huh???

I was looking out the door this morning and based on the amount of water my indoor plants take, I got to thinking about all the water the trees are soaking up. Wow! And we have a million trees around here!
Makes me want to read more about trees. I think I might have a tree book around here... If not, ah... well... maybe I can look for one. hehehe

Hope everyone has enough to drink today :-)

LOL I don't know that I would want to wake up and be 25. I might consider 44. Size 12 max, would be nice, too. With a metabolism that works.. I don't think I woke that way though. I was sleepy and draggy.. still am. Now I'm hungry too. Oh well. None of those things will will get me any closer to Canada.. :P

Ok.. have to put together an Ikea shelf to go behind my chair. Got the kitties a new tent with a scratching post.. and one of those S shaped scratchers... and shelves to hang by the sofa.. so they can clim up there to sit. Got the idea from Jackson Galaxy . Can't wait to get those up! It won'tbe today.. maybe next week...
Dan will have to do it. Now for my little shelves. yay!

Slinking in to say hello ..... too hot and too muggy today for any high energy prancing.

Hot here too.. the weather guessers ay 70's tomorrow.. I don't believe..

Cee.... how has today been for you? Way busy for me, as always when dan is home. I have been doing things for my kitties and my books. Both are pleased.

Hi Kath! Sounds like you have had an ambitious day! Need a picture of kitties on wall shelves. I don't have an accurate mental image of that.
And if I could wake up a size 12, I'd settle for my age ;-) Not that Canada would be impressed...

Hi Caro! Sorry about the weather. I swear I didn't do it! Try to practice sitting still - it does help to keep your body temp stable.

LOL Canada is quiet ... but quite staid and determined...

Hi Claudia, thought I'd come catch up with you. Sorry about the computer troubles. Time for a new one? How old is the one you have? What kind?

I saw a film about an very well known, very prolific artist tonight and it's seriously shaken me up. I need to get off my ass and DO more. But then what happens to LT time?

Rise and shine! Whats doing in the north woods this morning?
Anything interesting? Shopping done is good, will this be a relax by the cove day?

Morning Claudia- You would love it today! High 73. Cool & breezy. Sweet!

Good mornin' Ilana - Well, my laptop is about 3.5 years old. A Toshiba. I was so happy with it til I had to have a small fix about a year ago and it has been a mess ever since. Never should have let tham touch it!
Apparently the wire connecting the top and the bottom was worn out from opening and closing and needed replacing. Should have been a quick fix but they sent it away for over a month and told me it needed a ton of repair incl a new hard drive. They lied. I know they did. I should have bought a new computer at the time but - it's a long, maddening story.

Anyway - I am considering a new something or other now. Ron and I are connected to the same network, etc. His laptop works fine, mine is slower than molasses running uphill in January :P But when it starts kicking me out of the internet constantly - that's more than I can bear. So. I don't know. It's not a cheap thing to replace :{

Your calling as an artist - vs - LT. Hmmm.
Ilana, you are an enigma! You want to do everything and do it the best ever! Unfortunately, and I say this in the very nicest possible way, you are human. I know. It stinks, huh? Limitations, choices, not knowing what to do, trying to find a balance... If I had the answers, I would write a book and be very wealthy! You may be trying to work this out all your life. You're too good at too many things! Good luck.

Hi Kath - Well, I rose but did not shine. It's foggy and 72 - BUT - 98% humidity. I'll take it. It could be worse. And probably will be before the day is over.
I expect to visit Mom today, re-stock her ice cream, and be treated to some piano music while I am there.
I have a new great-nephlet! He's a cutie - but in NY. Will have to be satisfied with pictures.

Hi Mark - I'm so happy for you! You deserve a day you can enjoy your walking - and breathe at the same time!!! What a welcome treat, huh? Enjoy!

**********************
I'm glad ER books are free. Some of them, including the one I am reading, is ok but not worth actually buying. I think. Maybe it will get better...

OTOH, The Good, Good Pig is delightful!

Cee... check ASUS on Newegg for computers? Asus in general gets good marks. Not a fan of Toshiba after my own experiences with them.

OH and the book does have a good ending... not great mind you.. I agree, it is worth reading, not buying...
let me now what you think when you finish.

Hope today gets grey and stormy for you :)

Sorry to hear about the computer woes and the ice cream mystery, Cee.

I suspect she's getting help eating the ice cream, especially since you know that she offers it, but who knows?

#44 The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery (4.5 stars)



This is a Good Good Book! Books about animals are often uplifting and refreshing to me. This book did not disappoint. As a matter of fact, it was one of the best. Well written with personal observations on life and the connections between humans and animals. A heartwarming story of pure love.
Highly recommended to all animal lovers.

Thanks to Caro for recommending many months ago! ;-)

#105: I have had that one in the BlackHole for a while now. I cannot remember if my local library has it or not. Off to check. . .

Have a great weekend, Claudia!

Finally raining here - we need it! As do many, I know.

I'll check out your suggestion, Kath, when I am ready for a new computer. Right now I'm just grumbling and struggling.

Hi Terri, I suspected ice cream parties myself - but after talking to her today I wonder again. Now I think she ate it all herself. I'll have to just let it go. Curious though ;-)

A couple threads - then bedtime!
Let's see how long I can get out of my laptop ....

Oh! Stasia! Almost missed you -
I hope your library can get this one for you. You will be able to knock it off quickly and it is really worth it!

Happy weekend to you too!

Hi Cee ...so glad you found the book to be a gem too. Didn't you just love the photos too? That was some pig!

Finally rain to cool things down a little and wash out the mugginess from the air. Watching the lean and muscular track Olympians and feeling slothful lying on the couch with laptop on my stomach. I wonder if electro-magnetic waves from my laptop will melt some of the fat off and give me chiseled abs?

I DID love the photos, Caro! I always like to see who I'm reading about - and that pig was amazing!

Sorry to say, I haven't seen any evidence of laptop melting fat despite the warmth it emits!

Even if I leave it on for an hour?! *whimpers piteously*

sorry...

There, there. You look beautiful just as you are :-)

Your calling as an artist - vs - LT. Hmmm.

I know, makes it all sound very ridiculous. And yes, I'll probably be trying to figure out where best to put my energies for the rest of my life. Too many interests. I've often wished I had just the one passion I could dedicate myself to...

But LT has become an important part of my life! And there are so many wonderful people here, including you of course, who I want to keep in touch with...

We've had lots of rain over here today too, cooling things off, though it's still quite muggy.

Hope you have a wonderful day tomorrow!

#108: I did check and my local library does have it, so I put it on hold!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend too, Claudia.

Well, now I'm regretting not having bought The Good, Good Pig at our Seattle-area meet-up at Third Place Books, where I had given myself permission to purchase one book per attendee and Lisa recommended that one. I carried it around for a bit.....

I don't think that RL and LT are in anyway mutually exclusive - ok I know I get by with slightly less sleep than most do but I have found the site and this group in particular has added gloriously to an already stuffed full life rather than replacing anything.
It has enabled me to make the acquaintance of so many wonderful people in the last 18 months or so - including you Cee of course. Don't think I could stay away from LT for too long nowadays as it is part of life's sustenance for me already.
Have a great weekend. x

Oh good. When you never popped back in, I was afraid that your laptop woes had gotten worse.
Glad that isn't the case. Isn't it great to find a book that touches your heart? Glad that one did it for you :)

Caro... if laptops could melt fat, I would look like Twiggy... if only huh?

Ellen... oh no! you had it in your hands? Don't you just hate that? It's happened to me ..

So Cee.. what is your plan for the weekend? Is it still grey and gloomy and rainy? I hope so! It is here.. at least this morning. Not sure what the afternoon will bring. Not sure what I am going to do either.. we shall see...

Well, there's no doubt about it - LT is a special place. We explore the world, support and encourage each other, and share our mutual passion for reading and books. So, I agree with Paul that LT should complement RL. Life is a balance, I think. It can be hard to make time for everything you love. Time is the culprit here!

I understand what you mean, Ilana, when you say you wish sometimes to have one consuming passion. Then you would not need to make decisions about how to spend that precious commodity - time. But, I think if you limited yourself to one thing, you would become bored. Chances are pretty good that your artistic talent will demand your attention and time as you learn more and it becomes enjoyable to you. Let it flow!

Yay, Stasia! Good good pig makes a perfect library book... easy to read in time alloted, no need to spend the money to buy, and a good good read! Sy Montgomery has written other books about animals and I am tempted to look into that. She did one on tigers and another on the Amazon jungle... I bet they are good.

If I lose this message, I'm gonna be po'd. Will never remember what I wrote... posting...

So, Ellen. Don't despair. Ya just can't buy everything! Check the library for good good pig. There were amusing passages from that book that I would share here, but they are a little lengthy for a non-typist such as I am. There was for instance an observation that in Eden God kicked Adam and Eve out of the garden but let the snake stay! She does take a different perspective at times ;-)

Yes, Kath, grey and rainy - beauteous :)
I am still having computer problems but I'm just bearing it for the time being. We'll see how long my patience lasts.

My weekend is open right now. I suppose I should do something productive - or exciting - or ?????

Hope everyone is more decisive than I and have a great weekend planned!

No no no no no... IT is meant to be... nothing! Do nothing but relax, read, eat and be happy!

Ah yes - my to-do list is growing but it's too muggy! Would do some driving around, maybe shopping - but too much traffic this time of the year. And the drivers are just too crazy!
I like shopping at LL Bean cuz you can go at night - it's never too late - and have the store to yourself. Alas! I don't feel like spending money right now. I must be sick!

I have a lot of $ going out for Dans Canada trip. Yes, he gets to go to Canada, I get to go nowhere.
So I am watching pennies, too.

Stinks, doesn't it ?!?

You need a vacation too!!!!!

I know I do. But Dan is not dependable as a caretaker for the furkids, due to the vagaries of his work.
I have no one, but Debbie. She will come once a day. I am trying to work around that to get to Maryland. So far, no luck aligning everyones schedule.

What if you figured out a combo of Dan and Debbie to care for furkids?

You're important too, ya know!

Thank you my friend. I have been working in it. I just ran down to Kims to snuggle kids and take them some pie. Dan brought home pie. I don't want all that pie in the house. Love those kids..

Hi Cee! Just trying to catch up with everyone and it looks like you've been reading a string of good books. Most of them are sitting on my TBR mountain just patiently waiting till their turn.
I caught your comment about the spider and it just reminded me of the time my husband and I were down in Costa Rica with our youth group for a missions trip and my BF (now husband) went to the washroom one night and found a spider that was (not kidding) was the size of the sink. From tip to tip, it spanned the entire length of the sink. He chose to not wash his hands that night. I don't blame him. :)

*trying not to picture spider the size of a sink*

*not working*

The size of the sink - on dear! *silent screaming* That's very big. Definitely too big.

Ok, trying to shake that spider thing off *more silent screaming* - I'm all caught up here, Cee. Sorry about your computer woes - I really HATE that. Technology must work. Liked your review of The Good, Good Pig - will have to look for that one. I was hoping you had solved the ice cream mystery because I was curious my own self about that one. Hope you are having a fabulous weekend so far - it's GORGEOUS here. Sunny and 72. Just about perfect - and completely unheard of in August in these parts, so I am soaking it all up and enjoying it.

You tried Go To chicken? Fabulous!
Isn't LT great? Its like a more personal, more literary Google or something..
Or like a mini goddess.. ask and we receive.. even if we don't ask!

Did you have a good day?

Day was ok - kinda boring. Too muggy and buggy. Laid low.

OMG! I am in serious deep poop!

I finally caved and checked the series category on LT.
*I have read sooo many books that I liked and didn't even know were part of a series!
*Then there are the ones I knew were in a series and I have a way to go...
*And I can't even begin to think about all the ones I want to read that haven't made my list yet.

Where did all these books and authors come from????
I don't know where to start :{

*Puts on galoshes and gloves, ties surgical mask over mouth and nose, and wades in to help Cee out of the poo*

Pick five of them, Cee, and ignore all the rest for now - or pick 2 from each category you listed above.

Or you could panic - wait, that's not helping is it?

I say, throw caution to the winds, and get the next 2 of each series...
Call it therapy.. and put them neatly on the TBR pile.

ROFL!

:)

Now you can dream about which series you will follow..
and thanks for the warning.. I am NOT going to look there any time soon LOL

sweet dreams

You two are a BIG help!

Just want you to know Mamie - I am touched that you would wade through poo for me! LOL

Kath - I already need another book shelf! Where would I put them all? Srsly. Don't look!

ETA: Sweet dreams tonight to all who are not up late reading!

Mamie and Kath = possibly nuts.
But so loving! :-)

Stack some behing the sofa? Who would know. And no... I have no books behind my sofa. I had them behind my chair, and I found places for them. Ellen... nuts? well of course, I have never denied that :)
We just want our Cee to be happy!

Hi dear, just stopping by - in vacation mode here.....

Well for purposes of full disclosure, it does say Crazy right in front of the Mamie part.

You got that right, Ellen! And that's why I love them!

Behind sofa??? Hmmm. Don't think so, Kath. I just got my books all organized with a bit of extra space and it's gone already. I need to keep them alphabetical. Maybe that is an unrealistic goal. Those 27 free books from the book sale in July messed it all up...

Hi Lucy! Thanks for stopping by. I'm wondering if the Cape feels as cool and clammy as it does here? Hope you are having great fun :-)

Oh. Yeah. Huh. You're right! CrazyMamie... you did indeed warn us ;-} And there is a big heart in there, too!

************
Strange day... low key... rainy Sunday... not complaining :)

I am enjoying the ideas for where to put your books Cee. That's a constant problem here too especially since hubby has actually made the suggestion that I not purchase any more books until I read all the ones I already own. When I picked myself up off the floor from being overcome by gales of laughter, I mentioned that that would never happen and I will have to just buy more book shelves. He just walked away shaking his head. I live in a fairly large house with lots of room for bookshelves so what possible reason would I have for not continuing my buying ways? It's probably true that I will not live long enough to read them all but I have to be prepared for the moment when I say to myself, "What do I want to read today?"

Right! So right, Bonnie! It's all about having great choices at hand. Especially since there are a diminishing number of book stores around. I totally understand your reasoning :-)
My hubby keeps saying "Buying more? I thought you already had all the books in the world!"

I need to weed, I guess.

101: Cee, I can relate to your computer woes. My laptop was at least 9 years old and doing weird stuff, too. I love my new MacBook Pro. I hope I have it for at least 9 years as I don't do change well.

Sheesh, what is it with husbands and books? Mine is resigned to my vice. I just tell him that my books are much nicer to look at than his collection of worn out running shoes!

Hi Donna,
I looked at the MacBook Pro today - a bit pricey! And I still don't know what's really better about Macs???

LOL re the worn out running shoes!

Oh, you are reading such gret books.

Regarding macs, people who use them are wedded to them. When we switched from Macs to PCs for the design of the student newspaper, the design staff who used macs went ballistic, some of them quit!

That is probably a true statement - about people who use Macs being wedded to them. I my own self love my MacBook Pro, and all of our other computers are also Macs. They are just so very easy to use right out of the box - and everything works together so well.

We used to have a PC and it was one frustration after another, so for me, personally, the Macs are ever so wonderful. And I have never had one crash on me. More money, less hassle - that's how I like to think of it. We have three kids who do online schooling so the computer has to work, and it has to be reliable.

I too am a MacBook Pro lover. I tried using my hubby's PC's and got all annoyed because the functions weren't the same. Another selling point is way less viruses and I've never had my Mac crash on me either. But I gotta admit the price point is a bit high and if you don't have a preference to begin with, just a good ol' PC would do the job.

I know all about those Mac user/lovers, Linda, which is why I keep trying to figure out why all the fuss?
You make a good case for reliability, Mamie. And reduced frustration.
Valerie, I have heard Macs have fewer viruses.

I don't have a lot of trouble with viruses since I don't do a lot of web surfing, etc. I'm a basic user. But I certainly DO get frustrated when there are unexplained glitches or slow, slow, slow response. Especially when Ron is using his pc right next to me having no problems. He has a slightly newer Toshiba.

I figured I could buy about 3 PCs for the price of 1 Mac... about right for a 9 year timeframe.
If I could count on 9 years on a Mac, I would go for it. But - dunno. It's more money than I want to spend on anything right now.

Do I try to learn patience - or - part with the bucks?

Hi Cee! Just popping in to say hello!

My husband is pretty sure I have all the books. I've started to get a little ruthless by either donating to the library or selling them to the Tattered Cover. They pick the ones they want and pay a dollar or two each in store credit. It's a vicious circle... And I still have way too many books lying around.

I'm sooooo far behind but I need to say that that vrbo listing looks perfect. I'd love to spend a month or so.

Joanne, me too. I have gotten ruthless giving them away. I will clear out another big bookshelf this week and they will go to the humane society and a select few to the Boro blding mini library, and some to the Conway towers, apartments for the elderly. I am helping to build their library :) It helps to know that they are going to good homes.

Good morning Cee... So what is goin on in your world today? Anything fun? A walk on the beach ?
Dinner in the city?

A mac. My Aunt Elaine tried to talk me into a mac for years. I said I didn't have the money... for years..
Finally I threw caution to the winds and bought one. I agree with all of the pros posted here.. I have found no cons.. aside from .. they can run a little hot. This is just the way they are. IN fact Apple does not call them laptops, but netbooks ( I think) to discourage putting them directly on your lap.. I always use a cooling pad, but I did that when I had a toshiba.. so?

I will never look back. My laptop is 4.5 ish yrs old. I have sent it out for dusting and cleaning, because I had the insurance so why not? But mostly, I take care of the weekly cleaning chores with MacKeeper and it runs like a charm. I love it and can't really explain why. The intuitiveness is one thing, dependability another but ..

Cee and Donna - Marriage and Books - For "husbands" in my case read "SWMBO" for tongue in cheek comments about deforestation read intimidation leading to covert book smuggling operations and medals of valour for maid and driver (now exeunt).

Hi Chelle-Bride! Sending wishes for happiness and a few quiet moments for reflection :)

I know Joanne! One week just doesn't seem long enough for vacation. A month would be great! Especially in NS on the shore... Gotta have enough time to experience all kinds of weather... like storms, sun, warm, cold, tempests, calm. Hmmm. Maybe I need a year ;-)

Mornin' Kath! I know. I'm dragging my feet on this computer decision. Maybe I can make a decision when the humidity goes away?
Today. Need to do some volunteer work at the GHS - membership database updating and renewal reminders.

Hi Paul! It really seems to me you need an e-reader! No one will ever know how many books you buy (unless you tell them) and it solves the storage problem. No more deforestation or sneaking around!
Of course, even with a Kindle, I still buy too many books. *heavy sigh* And your book games kinda sound like fun ;-)

If I were still working as an art director at a big publishing firm and they suddenly went completely nuts and decided to replace Macs with PCs? (not that this would ever be likely to happen, because any serious company that understands the value of good design understands Macs are the only way to go) I would quit my job too. Having to work on a PC would be punishment enough, but it would only be a sign that things are about to get much worse in many other ways.

So. No, I'm not biased in the least! :-)

I've always been an Apple and Mac user because they make the best products out there, while other companies just scramble to keep up with their innovative technology which always delivers better products that benefit the user experience.

And no, I'm not sold on their advertising. :-)

Just go with a Mac Claudia. You'll never look back, and you'll wonder why you ever hesitated to make that decision. I promise.

And... oh, HI Claudia! xx

Stopping by to say hi! I've purchased The Light Between the Oceans and here you have it as an ARC!! I'm looking forward to reading my copy, but life is conspiring against my reading time! Grrrr! :)

Yep... macs are amazing... I disagree with them being assembled outside of the country. That is a serious dislike for me. I don't see it changing, but I would love it if it did. I have some heavy duty guilt over that.
Still, I will stick with macbook if I need a new laptop. It saves in the long run.. both money and aggravation, IMO.

So.. hope today is a happy day for you !

Interested to see the buzz around The Light Between Oceans which has had a lot of attention here... I have it in my TBR pile, but think it might be a while..Oddly (?) I am not so keen about Australian novels - preferring to travel to places I don't know. Then again, Western Australia is further away from me than New Zealand, so....

Hi Ilana! I'm tempted... really tempted. A Mac may be in my future :) Gotta find a place around here that sells them, I guess.

Hi Deb! I can't say yet what I'm going to think about this book. At first I was thinking it was gonna be predictable and boring. BUT THEN... not so much. The tension and conflict builds and ethics become a real issue. Things aren't going so great for the main characters right now. Looks like they will only get worse????

Hi Kath - see above... I'm cracking on the Mac. But it can't be this month for $ure.

Hi Prue!!! Light Between Oceans seems more about "inner" places (i.e., mind, heart, conscience, relationship) - not so much about Australia.

*****************
So, today:
The annual Women's Working League Fair. Every year it is on the second Tuesday of August from 10 am to 2 pm. Go figure. It's been challenged many times but has become a time honored tradition that will NEVER change.

Managed to come out relatively unscathed except for a couple books (hehehe). I donated a lot of stuff this year and I don't want to replace it with more stuff!

$3 got me -
The Lost City of Z by David Grann (was on my WL)
Here if you Need Me by Kate Braestrup
Orlando by Virginia Woolf (one of the few of her books I didn't have)
Till We Have Faces by C S Lewis (will be a re-read)

Then - I got dizzy again. :PPPPP Have been just fine for weeks. So, WTF? (sorry)
Came home, went to bed and slept for a couple hours. Better now - but not completely. Will take my med when I go to bed tonight. heavy sigh.

Then - I got really crazy! I baked a cake.
I was craving something sweet - stupidly, I passed up the goodies at the fair. Then I just couldn't stand it anymore. After patting myself on the back for not buying sweets - I am kicking myself for being so stupid. Oh well.

It was a day :}

Awww..sorry to hear that you didn't feel well again! That dizziness must be such a pain to have to deal with. I really hope you can find the cause of it at some point...
Wow, to end the day with a homemade cake is pretty amazing and awesome. Hopefully it was super tasty and worth the work! ;)

I just made a triple chocolate cake, Valerie. Very easy and good with ice cream. But - if I wasn't so cheap I could have had a homemade blueberry pie!

Can't wait for my end-of-Sept appt with the ear specialist.

Cake baking, great antidote for not buying sweet things. Next time youll know better. Hope you are feeling better after the dizziness.

It sounds like you had a good day, then... ?

The Lost City of Z by David Grann I liked a lot..
Here if you Need Me by Kate Braestrup not as much... but I think you might like it better.
I haven't read the other two..

I would like to think that I would have bought the pie......dunno.
Have you tried getting a cancelation appt with the specialist?

The Lost City of Z's been on my wishlist ever since Mark suggested it, and Orlando is in the tbr, if I can ever get to it...

What's wrong with baking a cake?! I think that's awesome, especially a triple chocolate one. If you feel so guilty about it, then just send me a portion of it, like half or something. ;-)

So very sorry you felt dizzy again. Hopefully it's just a passing thing. I do hope you get all better very soon.

Right, shouldn't be here, painting class is just a bit. Couldn't resist dropping by to say hi. xx

Hi there, Megan. Feeling better today :)
"Next time youll know better."
Maybe... it's easier to resist a purchase in the moment than to live through the memory of what could have been mine! *sigh*

Hi Kath, It was a good enough day but could have done w/o the dizzies. It alarms me to think it can happen just anytime and comes on quickly. Supposedly I have been on a waitlist for the dr - but it was kinda long to start with.

I would have wound up eating most of the pie myself - but the cake was more for Ron. I just wanted one piece, though I took two! So maybe it's better this way. Pies are my downfall - love them - any kind!

Hi Ilana, I would send you cake but it reminds me of the apple crisp my sister mailed to me for my birthday one year. Holy cow! What a mess when it arrived! Couldn't believe she did that. Couldn't believe I ate it :-}

**************
Stayed up til midnight reading Light between Oceans and almost finished... should have kept going as I tossed and turned for another hour to get to sleep.

High clouds (no sun), nice cool breeze, lovely day but still a bit sticky. Ah, summer!

I've made a triple chocolate cake ONCE, and it was my first time ever baking a cake from scratch. Coming from someone who has never baked cookies without burning them, it was quite the feat and I could tell I was making my husband anxious..haha!
Anyways, it turned out not too bad, but by the end of the night, the cake was starting to resemble the Leaning Tower of Pisa. :)

I'll bet it still tasted good, Valerie!

I am just stopping by before my eyes close involuntarily and I fall asleep on my laptop...
Sweet dreams and good sleep tonight... Probably a piece of cake before bed will help with that :)

Poor, poor Kath. She's soooo very tired...
sleep well surrounded by kitties and don't groan too loud when you try to get up tomorrow morning :{

Cake is in my snack plan tonight...

Good.. have some for me :)

nighty night

Did someone say cake?

I love hearing about others staying up late to read. If only I didn't still have to get up so early....

Ahhh... Mamie. You're feeling better! OK - you can have some chocolate cake. Do you want whipped cream or ice cream? I didn't frost this one.

Used to do that all the time, Ellen. Not so much anymore though I would love to! My eyes get too tired.
Today I got to sleep in as it is Ron's week to get up with the dog.
Retirement is great! You'll see :-)

Ice cream, please.

You got it! And you are right on time!

Thanks so much, Cee!

Oh, Cee. I so look forward to retirement. I mean, I do not want to wish my life away, but it sounds absolutely divine. And well-deserved by the time you get there. :-)

I guess I can't complain. P and I are booking another trip to Hawaii for 2013..... now that is relaxing!

You are always welcome, Mamie!

I know what you mean Ellen - I looked forward to this for a very long time and worked my butt off.
And we did that too - traveled while we were still working to get a real break when we needed it! Also a way to have maximum fun while you are young enough to enjoy it.

Triple chocolate cake, oh my!

Ahahahaha! I just left your thread, Lucy!
Get back to your vacation now!!!! That's an order! :D

Hi Claudia, aka "The Troublemaker". You are very funny, my friend and that is why you are so beloved over here.
I also loved The Lost City of Z! Enjoy!
Hope all is well with you! See how nice I AM! LOL!

So glad to read your comments on The Light Between The Oceans. When I get to it, I suspect I will enjoy it. Somehow, it just grabbed me at the bookstore! Sorry to hear that you are feeling dizzy! Dreadful! I hope that will resolve itself fairly soon.

Hah! My husband and I switch off " getting up with the dog" though he is not retired and I am a err - retired mom and wife. Just take up space around the house!;)

Mark! "The Troublemaker" ???
What did I do now? I thought I was being an angel???



Deb - I finished The Light Between Oceans last night. I liked it a LOT. I'm thinking 4.4 stars. A great debut novel...
btw - how did you manage to retire from being a Mom and Wife? Those jobs just seem to stick :)

#45 The Light Between Oceans by ML Stedman (4.4 stars)



LTER book
This story explores the emotional landscape of the human heart. How much pain and sorrow can one hold? And when the limit is reached what actions are acceptable, honorable, or even justified?

As the beginning of the story unfolds there are no obvious signs of the storm brewing in the lives of a young couple who fall in love and choose to live the isolated lives of offshore lightkeepers. In fact, it seems to suit them quite well. However, before long their love and sense of right and wrong are sorely tested when a healthy baby and her dead father wash up on the beach in a rowboat. Many lives become entangled in fear and angst, ultimately unraveling in great sorrow. The struggles of all concerned are monumental and heart wrenching. No ending can be satisfying to this bitter chain of events. Nevertheless, it is just as it must be… tragic and beautiful.

A very sad story is lovingly and thoughtfully written by Stedman – and it’s her first novel. I look forward to future novels by this writer who doesn’t shy away from the difficult or the controversial aspects of living.

This story explores the emotional landscape of the human heart. How much pain and sorrow can one hold? And when the limit is reached what actions are acceptable, honorable, or even justified?

Awesome review, Cee! If this book wasn't already on my WL, you definitely snagged with your review. :)

Thanks, Valerie. I think you will like it.

What a lovely review, Cee! Adding it to the tumbling tower I refer to as my WL.

Thanks, Mamie!
And now that you are feeling better, hope your water heater follows suit!

Terrific review Claudia! I'll have to wishlist that one!

Great review Claudia! Thumb up from me! I look forward to reading my copy! Thanks for the wonderful review!

You always write beautiful reviews. I am going to give it a big green thumb because I like you, and I like the review and because I just wanna!

So what did you do today? How did you feel today? What is happening at your house..?

Catch me up!

hugs

Thanks for the kind comments Mark, Deb and Kath.

So... tonight was a potluck supper to celebrate a successful Celebration of the Arts that we held last month. Good crowd - great supper. I'm stuffed! And I think I drank a whole bottle of wine... oi

It rained most of the day so it was cool and now is 63F. We got about 4 inches of rain in the last 24 hours so all the trees should be happy and no longer thirsty.
I have been feeling fine - thanks for asking, Kath. My head has been on an even keel lately. Thank the Dizzy Goddess!

Gotta choose a new book tonight - so it looks like Disco for the Departed - supposedly another Cotterill hoot!

Hugs to all!

Terrific review Cee, this sounds like one for the teetering tower. We're supposed to get some rain tonight and we could use it as we're still considered to be in a drought.

Interesting about the Mac vs. PC. I've always had a PC and have been pretty happy; can't say we've had any viruses or any other problems really. My present laptop is about six years old and is still going strong. But I also have an iPad and I will say that I absolutely love the auto correct feature except when it makes me say something I never intended and don't notice right away. But I'm not sure I would spend extra to get a Mac. I guess I'm not unhappy enough with my PC to lay out a lot of $ for a Mac.

I started Ninth Key last night. It's the second int he series, but I'm fine with starting there.. it's
a book I found in someone else's thread.. sorry, I can't remember whose :( it is a fun read, I won't miss the first one, and I have the third one.. they are library to nook.

Not sure what my day will bring.. how about you?

Hi Bonnie,
What kind of PC do you have? I really think mine would have been fine if I had not sent it to be "fixed" when it simply needed a new wire for the lid. I wound up losing a hard drive and skype when they sent it out. It's never been the same since.

Ah, Kath,
You are so radical! Reading a series out of order!!!! I keep thinking it would not really matter - but I just can't bring myself to do it ;-(

Today will visit Mom and have her help me with a GHS mailing. She loves to stuff envelopes. I just have to keep a wary eye out that the right labels get on the right envelopes.
We'll probably go shopping as I have a sneaky feeling she's out of ice cream again!!!

Fine day today! I think all the rain helped and a new front came through. Have to get a wiggle on as I also have to deliver some books to the old ladies for their book club reading.

Hope everyone has a great Friday to kick start the weekend :D

Great review of The Light Between Oceans, Cee. I came close to requesting the ER book but changed my mind at the last minute and now I am regretting it!

Not so much out of order, just giving up on book#1.

Did you get all of our errands and chores done? GHS all sorted? How is mom? Was she out of ice cream :)
That sort of cracks me up ...

hope all is well

Thanks, Linda 007! Welcome! Nice to see you.
I've done that a few times myself I hate to say.

Hi Kath, All errands and chores completed - envelopes are stuffed and mailed ;-)
Mom is fine. And YES! She was completely out of ice cream again!
So this time we got 3 half gallons of ice cream, a pkg of ice cream sandwiches AND a package of choc ice cream w/ choc shell covering on a stick.
I told her that should last her a month! Then summer will be about over and she will have to cut back.
She had a BIG grin on her very guilty face. Sometimes life is good :-)

Sounds like a full day, Cee! That's so sweet that you loaded up your Mom's freezer with ice cream treats again. Did you remember to position the motion activated camera in the plant directly across from the freezer to catch all the action?

Cee - I see you got enough ice cream for a day or so! Enjoy your weekend dear lady even though it seems certain to be calorie laden.

>200 -Cee-: maybe I need to visit your mum....I could certainly help her with that lot of ice cream!

That should hold mom for a day or three... I like the way you think, Megan :)
It sounds like your day went well.. good! Glad to hear it :)
Have more to do today, in fact I need to move some books around in about half an hour..
taking my time this morning..

Wishing you a good day :)

What a great idea, Mamie! LOL I'm thinking it might be a very entertaining video - or at least enlightening. Half of me knows this makes her happy - and half of me worries about her overall nutrition. I guess I won't be overly concerned until they tell me she is not eating her meals.

Hi Paul! A DAY or so???? hmmmm Did I make a big mistake here replenishing Mom's freezer? I, myself, am not a huge ice cream lover which could be one reason I am not understanding this disappearing ice cream mystery.

Hahahaha, Megan! I do think the two of you would have a great time. If you brought the two boys, it would be a grand party. Mom LOVES babies, small children, and sharing ice cream!

Hi Kath, "I need to move some books around in about half an hour..." Huh? You schedule your household chores into time slots? Wow. You are disciplined? organized? neurotic? I have a load of wash that's finished in the washer and sometime when I walk by the laundry room I'll switch it over. Whenever... Of course, maybe that's why you get way more done than I do.
Glad to hear you are taking your time. Pacing yourself is a good thing, imo.

I feel like I should have something planned for today. I guess laundry will take center stage. How exciting!
Hope everyone has a good day!

Probably more neurotic than anything. I like to get started early, but had to wait till later so my noise didn't wake Dan. ( AS IF)

Have to lug down the box springs Hopefully with Dan's help and cook...

Ice cream? Why didn't I think of that while I was home with my mom last week? Actually, on one of those endless trailing through the doctors' (4) offices days, we did take a perk=us=up stop at the hospital's coffee shop (très chic) where mom got an old fashioned gorgeous gooey rum bun and a bottle of milk. I got a peach yogurt smoothie. She'd never had a smoothie and since peach is one of her favorite ice cream flavors, she asked if she could taste it. I'm afraid I've created a monster!

But....ya know....at 88 and still going strong, she can have all the peach smoothies she wants. I'll be posting a little bit more on my thread later this weekend (and on Tutu's blog) about some of her 'adventures'.

Just glad things are working out for you and your family, and I hope you are enjoying this glorious overcast, drizzly day we're having.

I'm so glad you liked The Light Between Oceans, Cee. It's been getting a lot of press and I'm waiting for my library copy. I plan on starting Disco for the Departed very soon.

Hi Claudia, was a time when the faster you replenished the ice cream stock, the faster I would have gone through it. But I've calmed down a little now.

I agree that was a lovely review of the Stedman book, but I will stay well away from it—sounds too depressing by far for me to enjoy these days!

It's been really cool here today. A preview of fall weather? It's actually getting to cold for me to continue sitting on my balcony dressed as I am (shorts and a thin t-shirt), so must be time for me to pack it in and do my art hour! :-)

Hope you have a great evening and a great day tomorrow.

>197 -Cee-: What kind of PC do you have? It's a Toshiba and my hubby just reminded me that its at least 8 years old. We also have a Dell that he uses that's newer, about 4 1/2 yrs. old.

We've got rain here today too! It was so hot a couple of days ago, I am quite grateful!Hmm - I do housework just like you do - when I bother to do it at all!;)

Mornin' Kath. Hope you get a "day of rest" today from your lugging and cleaning. Even I am getting excited about all the changes going on over there :-)

Hi Tina, Peach smoothies and rum buns sound yummy. I'll have to remember those if I ever get to 88. Will have to check out your adventures... I'll bet your glad to be home :)

Hi Joanne, I was surprised to find I actually liked Light Between the Oceans as much as I did. I didn't expect to...
I'm loving the Cotterill books. Really. I resisted getting involved in another series, but turns out they are great bedtime reads.

Ilana, Thanks for taking the time to come and visit. I know that time is a precious commodity for you. Makes me feel special :-)
It looks like I missed out on the ice cream gene - but I have a very strong pie gene. Any kind of pie will do!
I agree you would probably not want to read the Stedman book. At least not now and maybe not for the next 20 years. There's a lot of angst and struggling going on. You could write your own book about that. And maybe someday you will???
We finally got a nice cool day in the 60s and the humidity is dropping like a rock. YAY! I have to bake cookies today so it's all good ;-)

Well, Bonnie, That's interesting. I did like my Toshiba til it got messed with to have a wire fixed. Maybe I need to learn computer repair and do things myself!

LOL Deb! A woman after my own heart. If I had the funds, the first thing I would do is hire a housekeeper/cook. I could swear I had one in my last life!
***************
So, baking today! Cookies! Haven't decided which kind yet. We are going out boating tomorrow for the day and my contribution is cookies. Not a bad deal. Five of us are going out to Seguin Island for walking the trails and a picnic at the lighthouse. Haven't been out there in awhile and the weather is supposed to be nice. I expect we might continue on in the boat afterwards - they always make it a full day.

Wishing a pleasant Sunday to all over here - and a restful Sunday night for the other side of the planet!

Morning Claudia- Hope you are having a fine weekend and I'm glad you are enjoying another Dr. Siri. You will have caught up with me. I'm planning on getting to book 4 next month.

Hi Mark - I'm trying (and miserably failing) to stretch out the Siri series. They are just so much fun. What a crazy mix of history/politics/mystery/murders/spirits/prejudice/comaraderie - and a 70ish and feisty lovable man juggling it all with perfect aplomb!

Cee, I too am having a hard time forcing myself to stretch out the Dr Siri series. I find myself reaching out for the next one in my TBR Tower and have to really forcibly stop myself and make myself read a few others first before 'rewarding' myself with a Dr Siri. I'm bringing one with me to Tokyo. :-)

#46 Fast Lane on a Dirt Road by Joe Sherman (4.5 stars)



While I normally like to read about a place before I visit it, this time it turned out to be a happy reversal. We did a lot of exploring, driving, and poking around the state of VT while we were on vacation last month. So, it turned out to be perfect for me to follow that adventure with this insightful book of the recent history of VT (about 1950-2000). With a fresh memory of the small towns, many family farms, dirt roads, a few larger cities, and tourist towns this book struck a chord with me. It was quite comprehensive in it's scope.

The later half of the twentieth century includes most of my lifetime and I remember living the earlier New England values, the 60's, the changes in politics, urban sprawl, and the prominent issues of environment, politics, women's rights, etc. Sherman brings it all together from his VT perspective and I believe gave it all a fair balance as it happened.

I can't escape the close similarities I see in Maine to what's been happening in VT. This was a terrific book for a look at northern New England over the past 50 years. Now Sherman just needs to add the last 10 years... I'm thinking he will as he did with the 1990 decade.

ETA: Thanks to Lucy for recommending!

Hi Cee! Glad you liked the last read, do you know what's up next?
I have yet to get to Military Fly Moms... hope to tomorrow.I borrowed two more of the fluffy books from the library since they were available, had to stop and charge nook before I could procede ...Held the baby and he fell asleep. Bliss.

"...have to really forcibly stop myself and make myself read a few others first before 'rewarding' myself with a Dr Siri"
Exactly, Caro!

Hi Kath!
Don't know yet which book I will be reading. So many to choose from! How lucky am I?
Ahhh... baby. Hugs!
Just finished cookies for tomorrow :-)

Hi Claudia, it's true I don't make as much time for LT these days, or at least not for the socializing bit, but it's all relative considering I spent the better part of last year doing exclusively that. Obviously that wasn't sustainable, given all the projects I like to work on that keep me busy and (somewhat) sane. :-)
But I consider my LT friends an important part of my life and everyday am thankful I found this wonderful community.

I agree you would probably not want to read the Stedman book. At least not now and maybe not for the next 20 years. There's a lot of angst and struggling going on. You could write your own book about that. And maybe someday you will???

I've always said I think I have at least one book in me, and eventually I'll sit down and start working on it in earnest. I've made several false starts, thinking it might be good to put down all those difficult memories, but it was truly horrifying to go through some of them again, even if only in memory. I'll definitely have to write a work of fiction and spread out real and less real experiences among many characters because I'm not sure I'm willing to admit to some of the things I've been through. Eventually I'll find an angle that'll motivate me to dedicate the time and energy needed to sustain a project like that.

Dr Siri: I haven't been making any effort at all to spread them out as have reserved book #4, Anarchy and Old Dogs at the library already. Usually I don't keep up with a series back-to-back because I tend to get less and less appreciative as I go (boredom settles in quickly over here!), so I'll just take it as it comes and keep reading at whatever rate I'm inspired to... then if I DO finish the series too fast, I can worry about regrets down the line. ;-)

Cee - I can almost smell those cookies baking!
Tremendously enticing review of Fast Lane on a Dirt Road and it will be added to my hitlist post haste.

I think Ilana is right - there is a book in most of us. I'm sure that most of us could produce something quite readable (Suz and a few others already have of course). I have detailed synopsies of several books but have neither the courage or the unsponsored time to make it happen so far.

Hello Cee - my daughter is the baker in our family - mostly cupcakes and muffins. Last night's effort is on the bench, sweetly made with gluten-free flour (though not especially successfully - it was her first go with the GFF and I think it needs special handling). Still, they are raspberry and white chocolate so nothing to complain about that...

Wonderful review of Light Between Oceans; I think I shall have to get to it sooner rather than later...

I'm reading Howard's End is on the Landing by Susan Hill which is an enjoyable book about books and the writers she has met (everyone from C P Snow to the Sitwells to Amis pere and fils and dozens in between!). It is just what I feel like reading right now and I am a happy chappy!

Oh do take pictures? Then share them :) Please?
Have FUN!!!

Ilana -
I tend to get bored relatively easily too. In fact I am starting to wonder what to do with the free time that I worked so hard to attain. Have even thought of getting a job - eek! But I don't like the discipline involved with that! Wish I had some talent to develop. Maybe I'll go back to school ;-)
I don't think we will have regrets about reading all we can of Dr Siri. There's always plenty of books (series or not) with which to be tempted... as you well know ;-)

Paul -
I'll bet you do indeed have many interesting stories to tell. It's pretty obvious that many LTers have great writing potential. I, on the other hand, simply cannot write worth a darn and I have no story of interest to tell... yet, anyway.
I would love to read the books that are trapped inside this group. I do get a taste of it on the threads and consider this reading as important as any book... especially because these are all real people that I care about.

Prue -
My daughter and her family are all gluten-free and have done a LOT of experimenting with weird ingredients. They are not always pretty - but I think they are yummy. AND your daughter's baking sounds good too! It's nice when things look like they belong in a magazine - but not essential to me ;-) I'm happy to eat almost anything that someone else makes!

Kath -
Will be taking camera today - but that is never a guarantee pictures will result. I'll see what we can do.
Weather is perfect for me - a bit chilly. It will no doubt warm up some though. Probably a good thing being out on the water.

OK. Gotta get some breakfast and we're off.
:D

Oh Cee, have fun!

Hi Cee! Caught up again on your thread. Darn that Siri series keeps popping up...Have fun today and good luck with the camera. ; )

Mamie -
Back home - totally wiped out!
Beautiful day - 7 hours of fun ;-)

Kim -
I know, huh? I tried to ignore all the talk about Dr Siri - but it didn't work.
Have some pictures on the camera. Will download, review and possibly post...

Started reading The Red Pony even tho I worry about heartbreak. I was warned, but I like Steinbeck a lot.

>219 Smiler69:/220 Wilbur was producing an outline to a book when I came to collect him at preschool this afternoon. It was about fire engines, but does go to prove your theory, Paul, that we all have a book in us somewhere!

>223 -Cee-: secretly I am with you Cee, I have no book in me, much less the ability to write one!

Just swinging by to say hi, Cee.
The Red Pony is, indeed, heartbreaking (at least twice) but it's also very well written. (well, it's Steinbeck).

Just a quick hello.. and out the door to Walter's house.. I am sure that today won't be as good as yesterday, but I hope it is very nice in as many ways possible. Hope you slept well and are rarin' to go !

Hi All -
Yesterday was a great day for boating.
On our way to Seguin island and the lighthouse -

Wow, look how blue that sky is! Glad to hear you had a outing of a day. :)
I'm still trying to ignore talk about Dr. Siri. I cannot afford to start another series. Too many going as is!

Ron taking us to the island from the mooring to the beach preceding a long climb up the hill to the light.

Finally made it to the top of the hill - Seguin Light
Two of our friends, Gene and Carolyn


Then to the top of the lighthouse -

The light within the First Order Fresnel lens - can be seen 30-40 miles offshore.

Awesome pictures. What a great day! Thanks for sharing. (Isn't it amazing how far away lighthouses can be seen? Good thing too!)

Megan -
Ron (DH) would be interested in Wilbur's book on fire engines (being a firefighter). Perhaps he could interest the rest of the fire dept!

Ellen -
Hi! Thanks for stopping in... did not have time for reading yesterday. It may turn out I will be the one that took the longest to read Red Pony.

Kath -
After all that fresh air I slept sweet and deep last night. I really should get out more! Another beauty today. I'm thinking I should move my washer/dryer out on the back deck to get more fresh air! lol Hope you are successful moving stuff today?

Valerie -
I totally understand about avoiding new series... but...
if you ever need another choose Dr Siri!

Kim -
Thanks. I think lighthouses were a great and necessary idea for sure! They are also romantic, mysterious, solid, and considering their locations, quite beautiful/picturesque.

I love the pics! Are there more? I find that Im greedy for pics of other peoples fun! Saves me having to have my own. You look loverly... of course.. I am happy for you that you had such a good day :) I think it would be kinda fun to put the washer and dryer outside :) Are you washing today? That is in my future .

I'm still moving and packing and yadayada. Boring me.

I am seriously tired. I need to catch a breath and then clean out one more thing.. and am done for the day.
Morning at Walters.... that is all ready to go..at least my part.

I think I misplaced a book... but I'm not sure..
hate that.

eta

Glad you slept well :) that's a good thing..

Wow great pics Cee. The water and sun look so inviting. And the lighthouse is just the piece de resistance. Lucky you!

I love the pictures and what a gorgeous day you had for your outing.

Kath (my greedy friend!),
Consider yourself fortunate to have these pictures! I thought I did pretty dang good - photography is not my forte.
Heavy moving is definitely a good calorie burner. I lost a few pounds after Mom moved just getting the house rearranged.

Bonnie,
We're quite lucky live in a beautiful location and to have friends w/boats!

Lucy,
We've had some pretty weather the last couple of days :-)
At last!

#47 The Red Pony by John Steinbeck (4 stars)



A short work of 4 loosely related stories focused on tough growing experiences for a 10 year old boy on the way to manhood. In a hardscrabble existence, this young boy must also deal with his own anger and difficult family relationships.

But Steinbeck is more than the obvious. I think what takes this to another level is the recognition of the older generations, their unexpressed emotions and sense of worth as things change and they must make way for the future.

A very good book - but it is one heatbreak after another...

Love the pictures, Cee ... looked like a lovely day. There's something about lighthouses that make me feel sad though ... I like them, like visiting them when I can, but I feel melancholic when I look at them ... I think it's because they're beautiful but lonely.

Okay....you got me with your review. And you know which part got me? Heartbreak. Don't know why I'm a sucker for something that isn't happily ever after. Will have to check the used book store to see if they carry this one. Thanks Cee!

I can't believe that you can pretty much walk out the front door and just go to these wonderful places any day of the week. Amazing.

Well, now that you don;t have a vacuum cleaner, you are off the hook for that today.. so what will you do instead?

Great pictures, Cee! Thanks for sharing them! As it happens I am reading a long listed booker The Lighthouse by Alison Moore. Actually I am re - reading it quickly because it had such a startling and ambiguous ending!

Looks like you had a beautiful day out on the water!

Morning Claudia- Gorgeous photos! Looks like you guys had a beautiful day. Glad you liked The Red Pony too. I just finished it as well.

#48 Disco for the Departed by Colin Cotterill (4 stars)



Another great adventure in the Siri series! I love the easy reading and high level of interest in these books. Fun summer reading :)

Caro -
I quite understand the lonely feeling of lighthouses - part of what I love about them. Many are said to be haunted too. Seguin had a lightkeeper long ago whose wife played the piano. Unfortunately, she only knew one song and played it until it drove her husband nuts. He then took an axe and killed her. Many nights people say they can here a piano playing coming from the island. I personally have never heard it. Darn. Wonder what song it was? Maybe... "I'm gonna wash that man right outta my hair." No. That came later ;-)

Valerie -
Good luck finding Steinbeck in a used book store. I didn't have any luck... had to buy it from Amazon. I like happily ever after books - but I want the happiness to come at a price. Makes it more satisfying.

Kath -
Well, I can't walk on water! We do need friends with boats. The one we bought was a piece of crap and we were happy to be rid of it. We're kinda fussy. We don't want a boat with a cracked transom with the motor ready to fall off into the ocean. I know, Details, details.

Deb -
So, do you rec the lighthouse by Moore? Must be good if you are re-reading? I'll check it out.

Mark -
Yup. Great day for boating. We had fun. This whole week is turning out to be a great one for anyone on vacation around here. The tide, the weather, the area attractions, the perfect sleeping nights, the fresh produce, etc.
I did like Red Pony but could hardly say anything about it. Afraid of spoilers.

*****************
So, I think my next two books are:
Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes
Wild Dogs by Helen Humphreys

Sorry to hear that your boat wasn't a good one, but three cheers for friends with boats and good sharing natures.

I haven't read yet, I have barely breathed. I am going to read later, a vine book that looks good.
We have had some great weather here. It will of course be hot and humid on friday when we move stuff.
sigh.

I am about to weep copiously. I just sat down now Duncan wants to go out. So.. off I go again.
later!

Perfect sleeping weather, I call it!

We've started turning our floor on (radiant) which is a real 'sign of fall' - we have to slowly bring it up to a neutral temperature now. For months the cold floor has kept the house cool, but now it's just unpleasant. Always seems to happen so fast.

Kath - Passing tissues to my poor, tired friend.
OK. I'm only on page 15 of Matterhorn and I have a quote for you:
"Hawke had learned long ago that what really mattered in combat was what people were like when they were exhausted." (pg 11)
Carry on soldier!

Loki does that to me all the time. As a matter of fact, I think he links my sitting with his need to go out. ???

Lucy - I don't know anything about radiant heat - but I like cold floors. I would turn it on for the rest of the world eventually - but August? Really? Does neutral temp = room temp? I suppose that would be ok.

I like cold floors too, until the air gets wintery...
*salutes*

nighty night...sleep well :)