Morphy Gets Her Groove On - Part 5

Spoonbridge and Cherry at Minnesota Sculpture Garden

This is my second 75 Books Challenge. I read about 250 books a year, so I'm not worried about meeting the challenge!

First thread: http://www.librarything.com/topic/130083
Second thread: http://www.librarything.com/topic/132781
Third thread: http://www.librarything.com/topic/137054
Fourth thread: http://www.librarything.com/topic/139572

I mostly read fantasy, preferably urban, but also enjoy general and genre fiction, historical romance, classics, popular non-fiction, and will honestly try any genre at least once.

I have more challenges and lists than I know what to do with and am not going to list them here except as notes to the books I've completed.

Best book of 2012 is:

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

My best books of 2011 are:

The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by McKillip, Patricia
Bridge of Birds by Hughart, Barry
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Wells, Rebecca
Garden Spells by Allen, Sarah Addison
Soulless by Carriger, Gail
What I Eat by Menzel, Peter and D'Aluisio, Faith
Ready Player One by Cline, Ernest

My favorite books from the last five years are:

Essential Spirituality by Roger Walsh
Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader by Anne Fadiman
The Stand by Stephen King
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Katherine by Anya Seton
Sweet Liar by Jude Deveraux
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff

My 12 in 12 challenge categories:

1. Family Science Fiction Read
2. TIOLI Most Popular Books
3. Prior Year Challenges
4. 1001 Fantasy Books to Read Before You Are Turned into a Newt
5. US 50 State Challenge
6. Around the World in 80 Sleuths
7. Reading Romances Challenge
8. The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Ultimate Reading List
9. LT Recommended
10. Off the Shelf
11. Nonfiction
12. Most Popular Books by Year by GoodReads

http://www.librarything.com/topic/127722

I stole this from someone else at LT and tweaked the last few ratings. I can't give credit because I don't remember who I copied it from! Since I started using this I've noticed I've been handing out more 6's and less 7's.

My rating system:

10 stars - The book completely enthralled me. Could not put it down. Got something more out of it than just entertainment -- it enlightened or educated me in some way. Can definitely see myself reading it again. Will keep forever and never loan it out.

9 stars - Not quite perfect but almost so. I will actively push this book on my friends and family.

8 stars - A really great book in all respects with perhaps some minor flaws. Highly recommended.

7 stars - Better than average but with some flaws. Recommended.

6 stars - Average. An entertaining read but probably forgettable. Will not reread. Recommended for entertainment value to readers with similar interest.

5 stars - Slightly lower than average. Some aspects of the story, characters or writing troubled me. Probably will not recommend.

4 stars - Finished but did not like. Would not recommend.

3 stars - Had some redeeming qualities or else I couldn't have finished it. Nothing to recommend it though.

2 star - I can't believe I finished this book. What am I? A masochist?

1 star - No book ever gets this rating. If it's a 1, I can't finish it.

Places I've read through August 2012:


visited 11 states (4.88%)
Create your own visited map of The World


visited 26 states (52%)
Create your own visited map of The United States

Spoonbridge Cherry! :D

Another thread! Wow! You are a reading machine, Morphy! You go girl!

Whoops, messed up where I posted my maps because some people snuck in. Hee hee.

sorry!

Visitors NEVER have to apologize!

Weight loss update: 158 pounds

Health update: Been diagnosed with insulin resistance. In an unexpected blessing, church has offered to pay for my rehab pool fees.

Job update: MrMorphy still out of work but the unemployment got straighted out.

School update: 100% in all assignments so far and loving the class (Computerized Applications in Accounting - currently QuickBooks.)

Good for you! It's always nice to hear good news.

Lots of good news! Also, such a fun sculpture in your top photo.

Found you again. And so well done on the weight loss!!!

Happy New Thread!

Lurking around. Congrats on the weight loss! Looking forward to more of your thread.

WOW! What a great image to start your thread!

I also agree with you -- The Fault In Our Stars is my favorite book of 2012 thus far.

Congratulations on your weight loss! You must feel oh so proud.

Mostly awesome news here! And I love the sculpture from MN. I have been there many times. : )

Yay, new thread means more great books and reviews. :)

Just *lurking* - what a beautiful pic up there. And congratulations on this incredible weightloss - I can not imagine how much willpower was required to loose that much weight. :)

Thanks for visiting and the support, The_Hibernator, Karen, Nina, Zoë, divinenanny, leahbird, Melis, Linda, Berly, Valerie, and drachenbraut23!

>1 Morphidae: DANGIT! I knew there was something else I wanted to see while in MN :-(

Oh well, I will just have to go back again someday!

Great new thread here, Morphy, and congratulation on the continuing weight loss. I miss you on Castleville.

Love the sculpture, Morphy, and what a great photo of it. Congrats on the huge weight loss!

Nora! You missed Spoonbridge and Cherry?! Your trip was incomplete!

Morphy - astounding news on the weight loss and marvellous that your church are so supportive. Look forward to the 50 or 60 or so books you will demolish during this episode of your thread.

Checking in on the new thread, Morphy!

Nora, you will! What did you think of Hugo's?

Roni, I can't hear you! La la la la la. :D

Thanks, Joe!

Paul, I shared your post with MrMorphy and we both laughed. It's so true!

Stasia, thanks for stopping by!

Love the Spoonbridge and Cherry - I saw it nearly 20 years ago on my only visit to Minneapolis. That's a great photo of it.

215. Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency by Douglas Adams

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #12 (TBR Buddy), 1001 Fantasy, 1001 Books

Summary: The author describes it as "thumping good detective-ghost-horror-who dunnit-time travel-romantic-musical-comedy-epic."

Opinion: I wanted to like this book much more than I did. I found the first few chapters interesting and amusing. I liked the rhythm of the writing. But then it got confusing and ended up making no sense at all. Bits of plot were left hanging. Other interesting bits petered out. It's pretty sad to say that after I finished the book, I went to Wikipedia to read the plot summary to see if it helped me understand the ending. No such luck.

Rating: 5

I hope you enjoy your next book more than you did that one, Morphy!

Love the sculpture! I found Birchbark Books on my only trip to Minneapolis but didn't know about Spoonbridge and Cherry. Next time!

Wow, Morphy, your stats are great news -- especially the weight loss. Keep up the good work!

>27 Morphidae: It was great! A bit of a sketchy part of town though. I ended up taking a bus because the shuttle was booked for several hours (the whole anywhere-in-a-5-mile-radius thing does not work as well as they intended). The selection of books was astounding, and I'm glad I didn't know how low the prices were until I checked out, or I definitely would have bought more than 3 books.

>29 Morphidae: I almost told you the plot was going to get weird when we met up, but I didn't want to influence your possible enjoyment of the rest of the book!

And now for your viewing pleasure. Nora and Morphy:

I'm glad someone did take a picture! It's always nice to see happy faces at meetups.

Oooh, would you just look at those lovely ladies! Again, jealous of you both for getting to meet one another.

Love the spoon/cherry photo, although I don't think I'd like to encounter it in person - disproportionately large things make me nervous...

#35

Hehe! I love that idea, that large items make you nervous. Does it work with any massive thing, like an elephant, or simply things that are supposed to be small but aren't?

You wouldn't like this dog anyway:



Love the pic of both of you Morphy and Nora :)

Oh what fun! Another RL LT meet up. :)

lunacat: The dog just makes me sad for it. But yeah, usually it's stuff that shouldn't be that large. I was once in an art museum, turned the corner into a small room that was nearly completely filled with this *ginormous* wooden barrel, which was suspended on top of two very large ropes. I let out a pathetic shriek, turned and ran.

>38 scaifea: I'm sorry. That shouldn't make me giggle. But it does, it does!

Sigh. I'm happy my weirdness amuses you. It is your thread, after all.

hi

eta: i am trapped with dog on lap

one handed typing

Love the picture of the Nora/Morphy meetup!

I would guess that the two of you are meeting in the coffee shop of a bookshop! At least with your thread Moniker there was no confusion as to names! Love having the meet-ups and you both seemed to too. If I can make it anywhere near the Twin Cities next year we must meet up to see if there are one or two books we can agree to like or dislike. Have a lovely weekend. x

Love the photo! Love the great smiles!

>33 Morphidae:: Beautiful meet up photo. Makes me smile.

>38 scaifea:,39: I'm sorry, but I have to agree with Morphy.

>41 maggie1944:: Maggie, I do hope it's not the dog in the picture. Do you need rescuing?

Great photo of you and Nora, Morphy! Looks like a fun get-together.

>well, it was a black dog, but he only weighs 15 lbs. Nicky is his name. And I love him to bits! That is why I could not move him even to type with my normal facility.

#36 Is the size of that dog real???

#48

Yup, he's a new addition to the Guiness Book of Records

Beautiful photo of two beautiful ladies! Glad it was another LT Meetup success!!!

Agree, beautiful pic of two lovely ladies!
I am amazed at the huge dog, but he looks like he doesn't get enough to eat.

Great pic of your meetup!
I would not like to have to live with a dog like that.

>28 Sakerfalcon: Sakerfalcon, I can't take credit for the pic. I grabbed it from Google Images.

>31 Donna828: Donna, what type of bookstore is Birchbark? Been here 20+ years and never heard of it!

>32 norabelle414: Nora, I'm curious as to what books you got!

>34 _Zoe_: Zoë, we had a good time!

>35 scaifea: Amber, hopefully one of these days you'll make it over to the Twin Cities.

>41 maggie1944: Karen, better than having Maia sit between me and the laptop. I can't see the screen much less type!

>43 PaulCranswick: Paul, coffee shop, yes. Bookshop, no. But I did send her on to one! I'll have to come up with a local mystery or thriller for you. That should fit the bill.

>47 maggie1944: Karen, plus the old guy would have gotten cranky and gummed your hand off.

Thanks for stopping by Stasia, Jenny, Valerie, streamsong, Nina, Joe, Laura, drachenbraut23, and Kerry!

THis morning I've convinced "the old guy" to sit next to me, on my right, and the youngster is next to me on my left. Hands free to type. Whoooopee!

BTW, the picture is a keeper, for sure. You guys look like you were really enjoying your Meet-Up!

>49 lunacat:: Oh no! Poor dog! I had assumed it was a photoshopped image.

>54 maggie1944:: Well done, Maggie. :)

>53 Morphidae:: Always enjoy dropping by, Morphy.

>53 Morphidae: I'll post them, along with the few pictures I took, eventually, when I'm feeling less lazy :-)

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Downbelow Station by C. J. Cherryh
The Ages of Chaos by Marion Zimmer Bradley
Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn

On Deck:
The Tiger's Wife by Tea Obreht
The Wrong Kind of Blood by Declan Hughes
The Secret Language of Symbols by David Fontana

Checking in from the GD. *waves* *cheers*

*waving* at Morphy

216. The Ages of Chaos by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #8 (portrait), to complete bibliography

Summary: Darkover novels containing Stormqueen! And Hawkmistress! (titles are good summaries, heh)

Opinion: I love the characters in Bradley's stories. They are interesting and display growth. Her writing is smooth and plots are straightforward. Bradley books are rather like chicken soup, something lovely to curl up with on the couch. Solid and warm. Not that bad things don't happen, they do. But the books aren't bleak and the endings are satisfying.

Rating: 8

And sometimes those are the best kind of books! Have a great day!

Dropping by to see the Nora meetup photo and to say hello since you've dropped by my gardening thread a few times...

217. The Wrong Kind of Blood by Declan Hughes

Genre: Mystery

Notes: TIOLI #4 (anticipation - 3rd page Chapter 1), Around the World in 80 Sleuths (12 in 12)

Summary: Ed comes home to Ireland to bury his mother and gets caught up in several murders

Opinion: I'm not sure why I liked this one. I'm not usually into books that are this bleak nor into characters that drink and fight and cat around, but the writing is particularly smooth and the story was interesting and complex.

Rating: 7

Can you believe I've never read an MZB book? I really should rectify this soon...

You really should. They are solid good reads.

Lots of cool things going on in this thread. *plunks down in corner*

#64: I do not think I have read any of her books either, Faith!

*waving* at Morphy

Hi, Micky! Hi, Stasia! *waves energetically*

I'm currently slogging my way through Wherever You Go, There You Are and The Tiger's Wife. I'll be done with the second today with any luck and will try something new and, hopefully, more fun.

*waving at Morphy*

Thanks for stopping by, Roni!

218. Waiting to Exhale by Terry McMillan

Genre: ChickLit

Notes: 50 State (12 in 12), Ultimate Reading List

Summary: Four African-American women in their thirties explore friendship and romance

Opinion: Dear lord, could women be any more stupid about men? I doubt it. One sleeps around, another is being divorced by a cad, another keeps dating men who take off and the fourth is closed off. The language is atrocious. I'm not a prude by any means, neither is my husband who overheard some of the audio, but both of us shook our heads over the amount of foul language. The only things that keep this book from being a total wash out are the friendship between the women and the familial relationships.

Rating: 5

What a nice thread! Spoonbridge & Cherry, some great news (congrats on the fantastic weight loss!), a meet-up photo, and good reviews. You may have snared me with The Wrong Kind of Blood, though I'm trying to resist another first-in-series.

Sorry that last book was not so great.

219. The Tiger's Wife by Tea Obreht

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI (12 in 12)

Summary: Set in the Balkans about a young doctor and the relationship she has with her story-telling grandfather

Opinion: I don't know. It was okay, I suppose. The plotting went all over the place and I don't understand how it was all suppose to stick together. I was more interested in the grandfather's stories than the granddaughter's.

Rating: 6

220. Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #12 (Buddy TBR - librattyteen), Ultimate Reading List (12 in 12), 2009 TBR

Summary: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life

Opinion: I think I have one or two more meditation/zen type books on my Must TBR list but then I'm done. I don't know if these books are too frou-frou or too Eastern for me, but the best I can do is skim them. I need more straightforwardness. I gave it a five because it has encouraged me to get back to trying meditation.

Rating: 5

I also didn't understand how the plotting was supposed to stick together in The Tiger's Wife, Morphy. To me that was a major flaw. She's a talented writer, but as you say, the plotting went all over the place.

221. Eon by Alison Goodman

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #4 (Anticipation - pg 4 Ch 1 waiting), Calico

Summary: A female conceals herself as a boy in order to become an apprentice to a Dragoneye (magician) in an Asian-flavored fantasy

Opinion: I waffled between a 6 and 7 because while I enjoyed this book for the non-European-style fantasy, dragons, gender identity themes, and "pig boy" story, I thought the hero(ine) was reactive instead of proactive and the plot was bleak and depressing. I have hopes for the sequel though.

Rating: 7

222. A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #12 (TBR Buddy), 1001 Fantasy, Ultimate Reading List, TBR 2007, TBR Next

Summary: Epic fantasy with tons of political intrigue, plot lines and characters

Opinion: What can I say about this book that hasn't already been said? I do know that while I will read the rest of the series it will be over a period a time because I can only handle so much tragedy and violence.

Rating: 7

223. Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich

Genre: Mystery

Notes: TIOLI #9 (9 letters), Misc

Summary: Valentine's Day Stephanie Plum novella

Opinion: Fun fluff. Plum taking over the "relationship expert's" cases was amusing. Grinned throughout the entire thing.

Rating: 7

224. The Wolf by Jean Johnson

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Notes: @ Series

Summary: Medieval fantasy romance erotica...stuff

Opinion: Plot holes a planet could go through. Over acting. One dimensional villains. Chiches abound.

Who cares?

This is sheer naughty escapism. She gets off while riding his horse form. He gets in a fist fight with his brother for hugging "his woman." Meanwhile, the eight (yes, EIGHT) brothers and the queen are a loving family and there is lots of laughter. And sex. Did I mention the sex?

Rating: 7

225. Reckless by Amanda Quick

Genre: Romance

Notes: TIOLI #4 (anticipation, pg 3 - anticipation), to complete bibliography

Summary: Regency romance where the couple share a love of rare books and solve a mystery

Opinion: Meh. I used to really love these Regency romances and I can't remember why. I like a heroine with a bit more character. Maybe it's because I'm reading Quick's older stuff as I work through her bibliography and I was much younger when I read them. Don't get me wrong, it was a decent fluff read. Just not what I remember.

Rating: 6

226. Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #8 (portrait)

Summary: Half-vampire teams up with a full vampire to go after the really bad vampires - oh, and the couple falls in love, of course

Opinion: Yay! An urban fantasy/romance with no love triangle! I'm not sure how much I like the heroine. She's harsh and lacks some compassion. But she might grow on me. And I'd like more humor. But I enjoyed this enough that I ordered the sequel from the library right away.

Rating: 7

>75 jnwelch: Joe, to me it was two different stories and I had no idea how it was all supposed to fit together. Ah well. Maybe she'll learn. I'm willing to try something else by her.

226 books! That's three 75 Challenges in one year -- and you're still going strong! WOW!!!! :)

>82 Morphidae: Me, too, Morphy. She sure can write.

Congrats on passing the 75X3 mark for the year, Morphy! You are right on track to hit 300 for the year.

I have a very stupid question about the picture at the top of your thread, Morphy. Can people actually walk on the Spoonbridge?

>83 tymfos: and 85 Terri and Roni, I'm shooting for 300 this year. I almost made it last year with 290!

>86 rosalita: Julia, no, it's an actual sculpture. I wouldn't call that stupid at all. They call it a bridge! Odd word if you can't walk on it.

***

Life update:

Still no weight loss. Still no job for MrMorphy. Feeling very stuck. But we are getting blessings from unexpected places and I'm making some social connections so I get out of the house more. I went to pool rehab for the first time in two months thanks to the generosity of my church and had a great time. It feels great to exercise for an hour!

I got invited to a senior center for lunch by a friend and the group of ladies I got introduced to insisted I come weekly to visit, even though I'm not a senior. Several hours in my wheelchair is uncomfortable, but it's worth it to get out of the house and to meet people.

School is going well. I'm really enjoying "Computerized Applications in Accounting." We just finished up with QuickBooks and are starting with Peachtree.

You are Amazing. Just thought someone ought to tell you that today!

*lurking my way through*

I enjoyed reading your comments on all the books I'll probably never read. I loved Wherever You Go, There You Are as I am sure you could have guessed. Carry on.

Good luck Morphy going for 300 - Go Morphy Go!
I showed my home on my thread yesterday at your request - your turn surely?!

It's nice to hear your news, especially, of course, about your blessings. It's always great to be invited to spend time with people. Well, as long as you're gregarious :)

As for weight loss, you're doing better than me. My husband came through for the school holidays, so we took the kids down to Melbourne, and naturally, any idea of watching what I ate went out of the window. Couldn't see it for dust, in fact, and I indulged in hot chocolate and desserts, not to mention moon cakes. And now the motivation to get trim has dipped, too - though he's planning to be back in a couple of weeks. So ... back on the treadmill.

I'm actually quite disappointed that your 'Spoonbridge' is just a sculpture; I was hoping to walk across it. Of course, I'd have to make it to Minnesota first, which I've never done yet, so no great harm done.

Congrats so much on your 3 x 75! That is so amazing!

Wow, Morphy, you are having three times as much fun here as I am - and I'm having a ball!

A big hooray for meetups. I'll be in touch next time I'm in your area. I promised my aunt and uncle in Marquette, MI a visit next summer. Minneapolis is the long way there, but DH likes to check on our new store at the airport. And I like to stop in at Birchbark Books. It is owned by one of my favorite authors, Louise Erdrich. She specializes in Native American books and crafts. It's worth looking up!

>88 dragonaria: Thank you, dragonaria!

>89 maggie1944: Of course, Karen. :)

>90 PaulCranswick: Paul, MrMorphy will be taking pictures today, I think.

>91 humouress: Nina, I'm not particularly gregarious but I've been mostly housebound and going a bit stir-crazy. It's nice to get out.

>92 streamsong: Thanks for visiting, Janet!

>93 Donna828: Donna, would love to meet up with you!

Hi Morphy, just dropping by to say - don"t get too discouraged if the weight loss is on hold for a little while. You've made such a lot of progress and there are bound to be times when it doesn't go as well. Glad that you enjoyed the pool session so much!

Okay, here's our little house. It's not much, but it's home.

Thanks Morphy - what a beautiful setting. It looks like a nice peaceful place.

I think it is a cutie. And it does look like a wonderfully pretty neighborhood, too.

I do love the neighboor. It's covered in old trees.

Awww, it's a lovely house. Just what I was expecting, interestingly. I love seeing people's homes - it must be the voyeur in me ;)

Morphy - Thanks for that. Love that you're surrounded by trees. Your place looks splendidly restful - just the place to get plenty of reading done. The flag you seem to be flying is to commemorate 3x75 books already?!

We change the flag every month or so. Right now it's harvest fruits (pears, apples, grapes). Soon we'll be changing to the Halloween flag of a witch that says, "If the hat fits, wear it."

300 this year?? Wow, you continually amaze me, Morphy!

Thanks again for all your wonderfully concise reviews. It makes adding to my WL all that easier..haha!

Your house looks homey and comfy! I love all the trees. The only ones I seem to see around my area are big pine trees that look the same all year around. NO change in colour whatsoever, unless you count the various shades of brown... :)

Ditto on loving the home and the trees - lovely!

Your place looks peaceful and homey, Morphy, and how great to be surrounded by trees like that. Another great reading year you're having.

Hey, can people go into my collection LT Recommended and pick a book for me? Or can you not look at other people's collections?

Wow. I just went through your top 100 recommended books and have only read a couple of them. :) Neither of them was a must-read.

I'll be in the Twin Cities again for a week somewhere around the 17th. I haven't decided my exact dates of travel yet. We can meet up. :)

>106 Morphidae: Bossypants. Or Does Anything Eat Wasps, because I like the title. Unless you want fiction, in which case Wonderstruck.

>107 The_Hibernator: That would be great. Look forward to it!

>108 norabelle414: I'm currently reading Bossypants. I do like it!

I would suggest Sea of Poppies, or Zombie Economics (wrong touchstone), or Doc: A Novel

Now, since you know my reading tastes, you'll probably run screaming into the night: no, no, not those!

Oh I like that collection idea, I should do it, I use goodreads as a dumping ground for my to read suggestions.
From your list I'll suggest Cinder or Rivers of London, I loved both of these.

What great photos of your meet up with Nora and of your lovely house!

Oooh, I loved Bossypants!

From the ones I've read

Rivers of London (good start to an urban fantasy - I haven't read any more in the series yet)
The Coroner's Lunch (fun, interesting and great characters - I have read the second and found it enjoyable, still need to find a copy of the third to read)
and Song of Achilles (wonderful retelling of Greek myth from a different POV).

I probably should I mentioned (DOH!) I have already the following on my TBR soon list, I need one to add to it (it's for my October selection for my 12 in 12 challenge - I'm a bit behind!):

May - To Touch a Wild Dolphin by Rachel Smolker
June - The Beekeeper's Apprentice by Laurie K. King
July - Midnight Riot (Rivers of London) by Ben Aaronovitch
August - Long Lankin by Lindsey Barraclough
September - Bossypants by Tina Fey (currently reading)

I'm sort of leaning toward Cinder at this point but am still pondering suggestions.

I haven't read it yet, but Roni gave a great endorsement for Face in the Frost on the Halloween read thread.

Love the flag you describe with the witch's hat. I wonder if I can find a similar one for over my desk at work. ;-)

Cinder looks really good. You should read it so I can read vicariously though you :-)

Oh, yes, Face in the Frost is excellent.

And it's available on Kindle, if you have one. There is a review saying there are lots of errors in the text, but I downloaded the first sample chapter, and it is clean. Very convenient.

And the winner is:

Face in the Frost

Thanks, everyone!

I enjoyed Face in the Frost when I read it, Morphy. I hope you do too!

Face in the Frost sounds very interesting. Waiting to read your thoughts on it. Wish you a lovely Sunday.

227. The Secret Language of Symbols by David Fontana

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #8 (dead author), Nonfiction (12 in 12), TBR 2009, Dewey, Ellie's Mixing It Up Challenge

Summary: Reference guide to symbols

Opinion: I was so distracted by the horrendous artwork, I could hardly be bothered to roll my eyes over either the frou-frou section heading writing or the near dictionary-like listing of symbol meanings. Not what I was looking for at all.

Rating: 4

228. Alpha and Omega: Cry Wolf - Volume One by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Graphic Novel

Notes: TIOLI #16 (4's in ISBN)

Summary: Graphic novelization of Cry Wolf - paranormal romance about werewolves

Opinion: I think I'm done reading graphic novelizations of urban fantasy books I enjoyed. In general, I don't find the artwork is done well and the story is glossed over so lightly that I'm bored.

Rating: 5

***

No one has it listed in LT so no touchstone or artwork and I'm too lazy to enter it myself.

229. One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #11 (cemetary)

Summary: Cat, half-vampire, now a Special agent, is targeted for assasination and needs help from her old flame, the vampire Bones

Opinion: The only thing that could make this series better is if some humor were interjected. Frost needs to lighten up a little. Otherwise, I love the characters and the story line. Steamy and emotional without being ridiculous. (No love triangle!) Plus Cat kicks some major ass.

Rating: 8

230. The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon

Genre: Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #16 (4's in ISBN), WCC Book Club

Summary: A novel about a woman who can't speak, a man who is deaf, and a widow who finds herself suddenly caring for a newborn baby.

Opinion: The story in general was okay but I think I was bothered that the whole 40-year plot felt like a device to get to last chapter. Where it worked was when it focused on the characters, especially Homan and Lynnie, and the effects of institutionalization of those considered "defective."

Rating: 6

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Downbelow Station by C. J. Cherryh
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Curse of the Mistwraith by Janny Wurts

On Deck:
Overcoming Binge Eating by Christopher Fairburn
Chthon by Piers Anthony
Gerald's Game by Stephen King

MrMorphy just headed off to his new job. Whoo hoo!

After weaning myself off those STUPID anti-depressants, I'm losing weight again. Lost 3 pounds this morning. Can we hear another Whooo hooo?!?

Whoo hoo - congrats for new job; getting off the antidepressants and the weight loss.

Hope all this means a good time for you Morphy:)

#128:

Good news on the the new job and losing the weight!
Face in the Frost looks interesting, I've downloaded a sample chapter.

That's great that Mr. Morphi found a job! :D

And that's great about your 3lbs! :D

Whoooo hooo, double good news!

Oh, great news, Morphy! Happy for you and Mr. Morph!

Great news on both fronts! Whoo hoo!

> What Stasia said!! :0)
(Congratulations to you both. I'm glad things are looking better)

Whoo hoo! Congrats on both fronts, Morphy. What great news.

Not only is it nice financially, it's also nice to have the house to myself again. Heh. Being together 24/7 was getting on my nerves.

Hah! I know my much better half worries about that part when I get to retirement. I tell her I'll hang out in the cafes.

Yay, fantastic news! I'm so pleased for you both. Here's hoping the good times continue :)

Whoo hoooooo, indeed! Morphy, that's great news for mrmorphy, and indeed, those meds can really affect your weight, so it's good to have them out of the way. Fantastic! Congratulations!

That is great news Morphy! Congratulations!

Congratulations to MrMorphy on the new job! What a relief that must be for both of you!

YEAH!

Ha! I know my mom sometimes struggles with having my dad in the house more than he used to be - he's not yet retired, but works less than he used to, so he's underfoot, as she calls it, more often than she'd like him to be, I think.

Thanks for stopping by and giving support, calm, Stasia, Kerry, The_Hibernator, divinenanny, Amber, Zoë, Athabasca, Joe, Jenny, Roni, Lori, Julia and Karen. Whew, what a crew!

MrMorphy had a good first day though he was a bit tired and sore.

Part of the reason I'm glad he's out of the house is because he was becoming so depressed. He needed to be doing something and I couldn't get him away from his man cave and off the computer. His mood is already improving after just one day.

Hooray for you and Mr. Morphy!

Woohoos are definitely in order for the continual weight loss and Mr. Morphy heading off to his new job. :)

I'm frustrated this morning. After just three days of work, I'm already getting the "I'm not going to get any down time for weeks" complaint from MrMorphy. Over the next couple of weekends he has to replace a window, we have friends coming over, I'm meeting a friend for lunch and we'll be going to a BOOKSTORE where incidentally I'll be meeting an LTer but he gets to go shop for books.

He just spent TWO MONTHS in his man cave in front of his computer. I could barely drag him away from it. He would complain of not being able to sleep, of neck pain, of back pain. I told him he need to get OUTSIDE, to be active, to get away from the computer and he would sleep better, but he refused to do it.

Now he says he's too tired after work to "do anything" and it will be November before he gets any "down time." SO WHAT? We will be having FRIENDS over. My mom sent hundreds of dollars so we could repair a broken window before winter sets in. I will be meeting up with friends so I have a social circle that is bigger than JUST HIM. Why not look at the good side of things?

And what exactly is wrong with being busy for a few weeks after two MONTHS of sitting on your ass?

GRRRRRR!

/rant

Oh nuts, Morphy. I'm sorry about the husband frustration, and understand it completely. Maybe he'll settle into things once he gets used to the change - I know that every fall when classes started back up, it took me a good couple of weeks not to be exhausted at the end of the day. Maybe he just needs to adjust to the new level of activity.
(I'm not trying to defend him so much as comfort you - I hate it when I complain about something and people try to defend the thing (person) I'm complaining about. I just want sympathy, dammit, not a solution! Ha!)

((((hugs)))))

it is frustrating when the housemate is whining about stuff he could change

I agree with Amber, Morphi. The first week or so of a big change like this is generally exhausting, so hopefully he'll calm back down again soon.

It used to take me 6 weeks at the beginning of a school year to get acclimatized to being back at work.

I doubt it will much change. It's a personality issue. He can be a pretty negative person. "My life sucks," etc. If I try to point out the good stuff, I'm "not being supportive" and "not allowing him to have his feelings."

Don't get me wrong, most of the time, he's an awesome person and I love him tons but the Debbie Downer crap is draining since I'm the opposite. Even when life is the worst, I have hope and try to stay positive. Whereas no matter how bad or good life is, he is looking at the negative. I swear, we could win the lottery and he would be complaining about how difficult it will be to handle all the money.

Chin up Morphy - as you point out his pros far outweigh his cons and we guys all need someone to unload to. He is comfortable enough with you that he is able to unload to his heart's content (if not exactly yours!). x

((Hugs)) We are here if nothing else so you have a place to just let it out without fear of judgement. Maybe a pair of earplugs for Christmas so you can pop in those babies during the Debbie Downer episodes?? :)

Sorry about the dark lining on the silver cloud, Morphy. Transitions can be tough. You already know you don't have to "fix" him, so keep on hanging loose, reflecting his feelings, and doing what you enjoy doing! {{{hugs}}}

Bit late here, but would you like some more WOOHOOs? Thrilled to hear about your good newses.

I have to admit that I've been a bit like Mr M.; after the relief of starting work after a slow patch, you regret all the spare time you don't have any more. Hopefully he'll settle in soon, and things will pick up.

MrMorphy is a budding writer and would REALLY like some feedback on the first few chapters of a book he's writing. It's fiction about a bard (musician) in the 80s and he calls it a romance but to me it's more general fiction. I'm liking it but then I'm biased. This is a first draft so proofing isn't needed more editorial-type comments. Be gentle but honest!

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/3058176/1/The-Bard

#159: I will take a look when I am not at the office, Morphy :)

Oh, I forgot, you put your feedback right on the webpage. There is a little form at the bottom of each chapter.

I'll take a look too.

Here's the picture of our meetup Morphy! I really enjoyed meeting with you. Hopefully we can do it again sometime. :)

The time just flew! I couldn't believe it when MrMorphy told me it was 4pm. My thought was, "she's leaving already?!" Would love to chat again.

I was surprised at how quickly the time passed too. I felt like I was leaving too early, but we really had been talking for a while! :)

Great photo! I love seeing pics of LT meetups.

Oh, just look at those lovely ladies! Jealous, but happy for the both of you that you were able to meet up!

Great picture of the two of you, Morphy and Rachel! Sounds like a fun meet-up.

231. Overcoming Binge Eating by Christopher Fairburn

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: Recommended by therapist

Summary: What is binge eating and how to overcome it

Opinion: The writing was fine but the information was old for me as I've been through a binge eating program. Also, it was more aimed at bulemics rather than those with binge eating disorder. Lastly, more than half the book covered defining what binge eating was rather than how to actually overcome it.

Rating: 5

232. Chthon by Piers Anthony

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #10 (different title/territory - The Planet of the Damned, Germany), to complete bibliography

Summary: A man has to escape a prison planet and the grip of a minonette

Opinion: This was Anthony's first book and it showed. Unsympathic characters, meandering plot, and slightly purple prose made this an unpleasant read. I hope it doesn't take long for him to catch his rhythm as I'm committed to reading his bibliography.

Rating: 4

233. The Heirs of Hammerfell by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Genre: Science Fiction

Notes: TIOLI #8 (dead author), to complete bibliography

Summary: Twins escape the destruction of their home and years later try to reclaim their heritage

Opinion: I checked the date because the writing and plot was so simplistic that I thought for sure this was one of Bradley's first books. To my surprise, it was one of her later ones. Both the main characters were brats, though the "younger" was less of one. This read like a kid's book. Perhaps that was her intent?

Rating: 5

234. Gerald's Game by Stephen King

Genre: Horror

Notes:TIOLI #10 (different title/territory - Jessie-France), King, To complete bibliography

Summary: A woman is handcuffed to the bed during sex games with her husband - then her husband dies

Opinion: I remember hating this book for some reason when I read it decades ago and while I didn't love it, it didn't make me as angry. I might have been going through some similar emotional issues at the time. Anyway, generic King. Nothing to write home about.

Rating: 6

235. Archangel's Storm by Nalini Singh

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Notes: TIOLI #3 (old or new), to complete bibliography

Summary: Love story of an archangel is sent to India to discover the murderer of India's archangel's consort

Opinion: The story and characters didn't have the emotional pull that Singh's previous books have had. I don't know if it's because she's an uneven writer or because she hit her peak and now is just pumping them out. We'll see. It was enjoyable enough for a evening's read.

Rating: 6

What a great LT MeetUp picture and if the time flew, then you ladies definitely were having a wonderful time.

236. The Spirit Ring by Lois McMaster Bujold

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #12 (vowel i), to complete bibliography

Summary: Renaissance fantasy about a young couple struggling against an evil lord and his mage minion

Opinion: While Fiametta was somewhat entertaining, she allowed herself to be pushed around too much. She didn't do much until the last chapter or two and even then it was with a lot of help. I understand that the period of time wasn't conducive to strong women but it doesn't mean I like to read about it. I read in another review that Bujold said the reason for low sales was because the heroine was biracial. No, it was because it's not one of her better books. Not bad, just average.

Rating: 6

237. Dark Currents by Jacqueline Carey

Genre: YA (I typically don't use this designation, instead use the actual genre, but this was obviously dumbed down to aim at a lower age level.)

Notes: TIOLI #3 (old or new), to complete bibliography

Summary: YA urban fantasy about a half-incubus Police clerk who is also the liason between the eldritch and mundane communities in a small Michigan town

Opinion: What happened to Carey? Where is the rich detail and plot? Where are the interesting characters? Just because something is YA doesn't mean you have to dumb it down. This book was almost boring. There was nothing new or special. I didn't laugh. I didn't cry. I didn't even chuckle or smile or sigh. How disappointing.

Rating: 5

Oh, I didn't know that Carey wrote a YA book. Yup, I don't think I could read something like that after I read her adult stuff. So much richness, so much depth, it would be hard to read something meant for a younger audience unless it was done really well. In this case, it doesn't sound like it was.

>174 cameling: Caroline, we did. When Rachel left I asked MrMorphy what time it was - 2 hours had passed. I thought it had been less than an hour!

>175 Morphidae: No, it wasn't, Valerie. The Kushiel books are some of my favorites, urban fantasy is my favorite genre and I can't recommend this book at all. It was meh. Just meh.

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Downbelow Station by C. J. Cherryh
Bossypants by Tina Fey

On Deck:
Audrey's Door by Sarah Langan
The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins
Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews

Morphy - looks like you and Rachel had a great time - I'm certainly someone who enjoys meet-ups having met three of our group this year and all have been wonderful experiences. Let me know when your little package arrives!

Paul, I'm tapping my foot waiting! I'm determined to read whatever they are.

Thanks for the heads up on Dark Currents, Morphy ... I enjoy the Kushiel series and would have thought to pick this up if I'd seen at the store.

Glad to hear MrMorphy got a job but understand your disenchantment with his "no downtime" complaint! Also I'm glad you had a chance to get out and meet Rachel!

Re #171 The Heirs of Hammerfell bear in mind that Bradley was pumping out a lot of material towards the end of her life, even as she was ill. No excuse, just real life.

Edited to add Okay, it was earlier than I thought. The Heirs of Hammerfell was published in '89, which was ten years before she actually passed in 1999. So you're right; it might just be a really bad book.

>183 jillmwo: Yeah. I was going to give it credit for being one of her last books but then I checked the date. Nope, just a bad book.

Well, by her own admission, she wrote potboilers. I remember hearing her speak at a Worldcon and she used a phrase I've never forgotten about the best plots of science fiction being stories about "Johnny gets his a-- caught in a bear trap and has many adventures getting it out." That's exactly the kind of stories that the Darkover books represent. No more, no less!

I made the mistake of looking at your blog this afternoon and ended up spending hours trying to create my own 101 in 1001 list! And I'm still only at 67....

I love lists. Too bad about my productivity, though.

>185 jillmwo: Yeah, but at least she usually writes *interesting* potboilers!

>186 _Zoe_: Bwhahahaha, my work here is done. Check out http://dayzeroproject.com for ideas and a place to put your list, mark them done, have a countdown, etc.

>187 Morphidae: Oh yes, I searched and found dayzeroproject. But then I still needed to create a parallel word document to be better organized. And then I had goals like "made a list of 50 books I really should have read, and read them", which required creating said list. And I've still only chosen 80 goals, and not prioritized them at all, so it's a work in progress....

I think it's a great idea to set goals for a period of longer than a year, but shorter than a lifetime. I'm not sure why I had never considered this before.

>188 _Zoe_: Oh, and then I put them all in a binder with a page for each goal and goals with lists, I printed the lists and check stuff off the lists. And then I can sort the goals by category and then in the order of how soon I think I can get them done and then review them once a week...

Nah, we aren't compulsive about lists. :D

Hehe, I like it! Fortunately I don't have a personal printer at the moment, but maybe at Christmas time.... I'll definitely need some sub-tracking for my book goals at least :D

Hello Morphidae,
I love the photo of you and Rachel and I am glad that you had so much fun.

I felt exactly the same about The Heirs of Hammerfell and actually that is one of my least favourite book from the series.

Thank you for the review on Careys YA novel - definately nothing for me and I also love her Kushiel Series. BTW did you read her Moirin Trilogy as well?

Archangel's Storm is on my wishlist, good to know what to expect. :)

>191 drachenbraut23: Yes, the only thing I haven't read of Carey is her Sundering duology because I couldn't get past the writing style.

I hadn't realized Carey's newest was YA - I saw that it was Urban Fantasy and assumed it would fall into the adult part of that genre. Good to know - thank you! I could not get past the first chapter of the Sundering books either.

>193 Sakerfalcon: I may try again. I'm jonesing for some decent Carey and it's too soon for a re-read of the Kushiel series.

I'm following the Sundering comments with interest; I was given those books a couple of days ago, and based on Carey's reputation (for Kushiel) and the description on the back (and one of the reviews I read here on LT) I am very interested in those books...

ETA, I have never read any Carey BTW, so this would be my first encounter with her.

If I had to recommend a first encounter with Carey, I would have to say Kushiel's Dart. I'd be wary of starting with the Sundering. But let me know how it goes!

I will. But it is on Mount TBR (or planet TBR, it is getting ridiculously large these days) so who knows when it will float to the top ;)

I've been told by my sister that I need to read the Sundering, but I have only read Kushiel's Dart. I was thinking I would finish that series first but I'm not positive.

*drive-by comments*

>179 Morphidae:: I made a cake for our local library's 'Books 2 Devour' competition, based on Arabian Nights

>188 _Zoe_:, 189: Good grief!

>190 _Zoe_:: Put it on the list (get printer).

Nice photo, good meet up, and thanks for the reviews (and warnings!)

>199 humouress: Ha! I don't actually need a printer, though; I'm just living here temporarily for a few months, so I'm trying not to acquire unnecessary items. I'll wait until I'm visiting my family in December--it may take me that long to prepare all my sub-lists for printing anyway!

>199 humouress: *waves at drive-byer (drive-bier?)*

>200 _Zoe_: How can you ever survive without a way to make LISTS?!?

We had the dreaded four-letter word* yesterday for the first time this season though it didn't stick.

*snow

*waving*

Wait, Morphy - you had snow? Whoa, that's a bit too close to (my) home for comfort.

I actually like snow, as long as I don't have to go anywhere by car. I'm sort of jealous every time I hear that it's about to snow somewhere else.

And don't worry, I can make plenty of lists on my computer! I'll hold them all in my hands one day.

So sorry! I may have started a trend with the S word.... Tried to keep it over my city, but guess that didn't work out so well! :/

Caught up finally - it's not like you make it easy, Morphy!

I do love Marion Zimmer Bradley but its ages since I read anything of hers. Maybe a trip to the loft is in order - go back and read some old Darkover ...

Actually, I popped over to see what our respective recommendations for borrowing are and I've already got most of those it suggests I borrow from your good self. I'll need to check whether that's because I've not catalogued them yet or because they're different editions? if the former then that's another job for the list (and definitely a trip to the loft).

A couple of friends came over for Papa Murphy's pizza and Munchkin last night. We battled monsters, ate peach pie, listened to tunes, laughed and in general had a great time.

Yea! Let's hear it for friends and good times! Me, too, the birthday party was good fun, with good food, and interesting people. Today, I'm back to reading, and taking care of household chores.

Munchkin! I almost played on Saturday, but we ended up playing Killer Bunnies instead. Gloom is also awesome.

238. Bossypants by Tina Fey

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #1 (random tag generator - read in 2011), LT Recommended (12 in 12), Ellie's Mixing It Up

Summary: Memoir mostly covering her time at Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock

Opinion: Even though I've never seen either of the shows, I enjoyed her book. She has a great sense of humor, obviously, and seems to be a delightful and interesting person.

Rating: 8

239. Redoubt by Mercedes Lackey

Genre: Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #3 (old or new - 2012)

Summary: Ongoing story of Mags and his friends at the Collegium

Opinion: Why do I do this? I don't know. While Lackey is an easy enough read, there is little to no story here. About the only thing going for it is the secondary plot about Bear and Lena. Don't buy, just borrow.

Rating: 5

240. Audrey's Door by Sarah Langan

Genre: Horror

Notes: TIOLI #13 (architecture), Calico

Summary: A troubled architect with mentally disturbed mother moves into a haunted building

Opinion: Meh. Not scary. Somewhat interesting character study but I found it hard to like any of the main characters, especially the boyfriend. Won't read anything else by this author.

Rating: 5

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Downbelow Station by C. J. Cherryh
Slow Fat Triathlete by Jayne Williams
Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews

On Deck:
The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins
The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket
Firebird by Mercedes Lackey

>170 Morphidae: Oh, dear, however did you manage to commit to reading Piers Anthony's entire bibliography? What an unrewarding slog that will be! I do like books 1, 3, and 5 of the Chameleon series, and there is one early book that is laugh-out-loud silly--Prostho Plus about a dentist kidnapped from Earth to do alien dentistry. But most of his stuff is so turgid, regressive, ponderous...and I read pretty much everything he wrote up until the early 90s, when I totally burned out on him. That means I read the Space Tyrant series, the incarnations of Immortality series, the Tarot series, the Mode series, and the Apprentice Adept series along with the first 15 books of the Chameleon series, so this is not based on a limited sample.

Just feel like it. I've read most of the books you've mentioned and liked them well enough. I pick a new author every once in awhile. Keep in mind, about five years ago I added Robert Heinlein to my entire bibliography list and I'm only about 6 or so books in. Not like I run through them or anything. I have about 60 authors I do this with.

>214 ronincats:: I read a lot of those series, too. I discovered him with the Xanth series (could have been A Spell for Chameleon), but I think I gave up on those when the titles got as sophisticated as The Colour of Her Panties. The Incarnations series was interesting, though. It's all so last century for me, dahling.

>211 Morphidae:: Is Redoubt the last in the Collegium series? I thought it was going to be a trilogy, but it's continued on. I quite like Mags - despite his accent - but Bear and Lena were starting to irritate me in the last one with their whining. Have been borrowing the whole series from the library (thanks for the warning). Have to agree; easy to read, don't buy, just borrow.

Also agree with both of you on the Collegium series--I've been getting it through the library after the first one, which I picked up at the Borders going-out-of-business sale. I was interested in how the system moved from individual mentoring to the collegium system we found extant in Arrows of the Queen, but have found the story lines less than enthralling, although I will undoubtedly finish the series.

I try to keep to only a couple of "entire bibliography" challenges at a time. Otherwise it seems like an unmeetable challenge.

>216 humouress: No, Redoubt is not the last. In fact, there was hardly any forward plot movement at all.

>218 The_Hibernator: I have about 60-ish authors I'm working on. :)

My latest Artist Trading Cards RAKs (Random Acts of Kindness):

Oooh, did you stitch that? I love the little bee.

ETA: Ooooooh, there's more! All of those are great! Are these the trading cards I've heard you talk about before?

Yep, stitched them all.

So nice! I love the lamb in particular.

Impressive Morphy! I'm still working on my first cross stitch pattern and I'm ashamed to say I started it right when we first got married and now it's been 5 years.... :/

I like the nautilus; but is that stitched?

Just picked up Redoubt from the library. No forward movement? Uh oh ...

The shark is stitched, the nautilus is a sticker.

Hi,, Morphy! My, I got way behind here. Woo-hoo to the resumed weight loss and Mr. Morphy getting a job. Sorry he's got such a negative attitude.

Lovely stitching!

For the month of November, each day I'm going to post something I'm grateful for. I'm a day behind so I'll post two.

November 1st - I'm thankful for my understanding and compassionate husband who is tender with me when I'm tired and cranky.

November 2nd - I'm thankful for MetroMobility which allows me to get out of the house, be social and get to various appointments.

Love your thankfulness idea for the month. I may steal that for my thread!

An Attitude of Gratitude! Great idea, Morphy. Hope you have a great weekend.

Great idea Morphy and I look forward to seeing your daily thoughts. Did you get the books yet?

Marvelous idea, Morphy! I also would like to participate in such a worthy goal.

>229 streamsong: Steal away. I stole from someone myself.

>230 maggie1944: You, too, Karen. Nine more days until Hawaii for you!

>231 PaulCranswick: No! *sobs* I want my books, Paul!

>232 ronincats: I look forward to seeing what you are grateful for.

Hi Morphy, I'm also posting my 30 days of Thankfulness on my thread. I must say I was inspired by your TIOLI Challenge. Thank you for that. ;-)

I listened to Bossypants in bits and pieces while driving around town on errands. People in other cars must have wondered what that crazy woman was laughing about.

Have you thought about slipping Mr. Morphy some of those antidepressants you're giving up? I have to really work to keep an upbeat attitude. That's one reason why I'm doing the thankful thing. Holidays tend to overwhelm me, but I have only myself to blame because I try to do too much. I hope to take a more relaxed attitude this year.

Love the RACs! That little lamb is adorable!

That is a great idea, Morphy! I think keeping track of things that we are thankful reminds us that we do indeed have plenty to be thankful for! I have something similar stewing in my mind for next year if I decide to do this whole crazy business of maintaining a thread! :)

I am thankful for my church. I'm not all that religious and I don't consider myself Christian, more just someone who believes in God, but they have accepted me with open arms and have been more than generous with MrMorphy and I. They have helped with our mortgage, bought him glasses and other things when we have struggled financially. All I can do in return is donate my time which I do by leading a book group, crocheting items for charity, tending the reception desk on Friday mornings, and coordinating a telephone senior outreach program.

I am thankful for fun movies and good friends.

We went to see Brave at a place where you can also have dinner with some friends and their kids. Had a great time and the movie was awesome. Even MrMorphy loved it. Plus, they messed up our meal a bit so took my burger off the bill. Yay!

Hopefully Morphy the books will be with you shortly.

241. Slow Fat Triathlete by Jayne Williams

Genre: Nonfiction

Notes: TIOLI #16 (ISBN 4's)

Summary: Live Your Athletic Dreams in the Body You Have Now

Opinion: I plan to do a sprint triathlon by my 50th birthday and this was a good introduction on how to get ready for one if you are fat and out of shape. Lots of encouragement and how-tos for those with less than an athletic physique. I've put it on my Amazon wishlist for future reference for when the time comes.

Rating: 7

242. Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Notes: TIOLI #3 (old or new - 2012), next in series

Summary: Break off novel from about a secondary character from the Kate Daniels series plus a Kate Daniels novella.

Opinion: Fun continuation of the series. Read the novella first though.

Rating: 7

243. The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

Genre: Children's

Notes: TIOLI #16 (ISBN 4's), LTMP

Summary: Three orphans are sent to live with their evil uncle

Opinion: Too bad that I know that this series doesn't really have a good wrap up ending else I would probably continue it based on the quality of writing, the interesting story and the fun characters.

Rating: 7

~~~~~

Currently Reading:
The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard F. Burton (SantaThing)
Downbelow Station by C. J. Cherryh
Fifty Shades Darker by E. L. James

On Deck:
Phantom in the Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Patty Jane's House of Curl by Lorna Landvik
The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

Paul, I know! I'm getting very impatient. *taps foot*

I'm so excited about your triathlon plans! You're going to have so much fun and get so much satisfaction from it. You might also enjoy The Accidental Athlete, which focuses specifically on running and is a memoir rather than an advice book, but still good reading.

Well, there is no way I'm going to be able to run. Because of my knees, I'm going to have to walk the run part. But according to the book, that is perfectly okay in the sprint triathlons.

For those who don't know, a sprint triathlon is a short distance triathlon and runs about 1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike ride and a 3 mile run (or walk in my case.)

Yup, plenty of people walk in all sorts of events. I don't know much about triathlons, but I know there are people who walk half-marathons (13.1 miles).

Morphy, you are a credit to your gender!

Morphy, I've never heard of a sprint triathlon, but that actually sounds doable for me, and I'm inspired by your example!

I've done a sprint triathlon and I walked a good deal of it. :) It was my very first and I was SOOO tired after that swim!!! The bike part I was pretty good at though.

The woman on the front of Slow Fat Triathlete looks like she's in better physical condition than me.

I really enjoyed the Series of Unfortunate Events despite the ending. Actually, the non-ending fit with the series better than a "real" ending would have. A real ending would have kind of clashed with the theme of "and on and on this goes forever and a day."

New thread!

http://www.librarything.com/topic/144353