Marvelous Maggie1944's 2012 Readings, part 3

Two favorite things: happy artistic niece and new comfy reading chair

Does it get better?

Love it! How old is she?

*waves* at Karen. Enjoy your down time this weekend!

fuzzi, Jocelyn will be 5 in January. She is growing up to be a charming young lady. luvamystery65, thanks, I intend to, in all its parts.

*smoochings* for new thread mojo and lung mojo...maintain those normal values whammy added.

Nice new thread, Karen! Hope you have fun tonight!

((hugs)) back at you, richardderus, and thanks for the good thoughts. Crazymamie, thanks. I'll try. I just put together the pictures I owed these two friends for ten years. It will be nice to give them to the girls, as I've been on and off feeling a little guilty!

I've got to go look for shoes! Last-minute-itis! Yikes!

Karen, five is a wonderful age!

Yup! She's a sweetie.

OK, update on High School Reunion: I went to my favorite high end dept. store (Target*) and found a pair of flats that are exactly the right color to go with Schelie's dress and sweater. I also bought some fresh mascara, and eye shadow, and a new lip stick. I use these items so seldom they are all caked and decayed. I'm just stalling now because it is way too early to get dressed.

Sigh. Think I'll read for a bit.

* for my friends who may not be familiar with Target, it is a low budget place. The shoes were $14.99

Nice photo of your niece and the chair. She looks like a dear girl, and the chair looks comfy!

Have fun at the high school reunion, Karen!

Love the picture of your niece. She looks like a spunky one - I bet she keeps you on your toes!

Hi Karen- Hope you are having a great time at the reunion. I want all the spicy details, along with revealing photos in the morning.

Congrats on the new thread.

Ah--Chez Tar-jay! My favorite!

Don't forget that exclusive French boutique, Jay Say Pen Nay... ;)

Terri, you are right on both counts. I'm sitting in the chair right now. Good posture, will not get all stiff and potentially sore as I did when sitting on the sofa, bending over the lap top on a little table. My hip doctor surgeon would be very happy! And it is perfect for reading, too. Great full spectrum light I bought from a local store for 50%. Whoooooeeeeee!

The great niece is just great. She loves to hug and cuddle and do art. She is a good deal of fun to be with and then fun to leave with her parents, too. Ha!

Stacia, the niece has a good deal of spunk as does both her Mother and her Father. When she, or one of her brothers, gets all stubborn and assertive I laugh and say well "the acorn does not fall far". I love her to pieces!

High School Reunion - very interesting. It was located in a venue which was just barely large enough so that as we were having drinks before dinner people had to circulate by squeezing through little clumps of chatters. So, of course, I recognized faces and had fun reconnecting. Embarrassing when I saw someone I should have recognized right off, as she worked in the same school district as I did, and we'd seen each other half a dozen times over last 50 years, but I didn't. She recognized me and we had a lovely chat. She retired, did some consulting work, and next thing she's been hired again to work as a school principal. She herself admits it's a touch of crazy but she has a passion for the kids. We are lucky to have such dedicated educators. I was able to catch up with my two good buddies and we swore we'd get together more, which we can do as we are all retired now.

Did also revisit some old high school feelings. I went to the school which at the time had the reputation of attracting most of the money people in Seattle and her grads were big for going to name colleges and universities. We had the party at a Country Club which was very near where I lived, and I realized it was the first time I'd ever felt privileged to drive into the grounds. It still has a little guard house at the entrance with an real live attendant, in the evenings. Amazing. My family did not have money so you can guess how I felt some of the time. But, truth be told, everyone was very nice, charming, and fun. So those visits to old feelings of "not good enough" were fleeting, thank goodness.

Mark, it is true there were a few "spicy" ones. I saw at least two women who were dressed to attract flies. Honestly, why someone in their 60s would still be trying to put on revealing clothes, lots of make-up, and sparkle sparkles is beyond my understanding but they were there. Fascinating to hear women quizzing the men about "oh, may I ask, were you boys from your first marriage?". And I did see a couple of people of the male persuasion looking like they might be "on the make", too. I guess human nature never changes, eh? Not that I did not have a thought or two of "hmmmm, let's see, any old flames here?"

I took two pictures, one each of my two buddies. One of them was able to get in a picture with women of her old elementary school Brownies group!

Human nature never changes, never ever. Both a Good Thing and a bad one, I guess. But I'm glad you had an enjoyable evening!

Thank you, Richard, I did have an enjoyable time. And I'm glad it does not happen to have High School Reunions more often.

I've never been to one. I didn't like them then, why would I like them now? And there were so damn many of them! Six hundred or so.

Oh my oh my...I cannot *wait* for the Tea Lady review of Girl Sleuth!

823 in 1962. Oh, my!

823!!!! That's a good-sized village right there, add in the parents and siblings and it's a town!

Glad you had a good time at your reunion! AND congrats on your new chair!

Thanks, Roni. I'm loving the chair, right now. Resting after a bit of floor scrubbing in the kitchen!

Yes, the reunion was nice. And I'll be all ready to do it again in 10 years, or maybe 15 years. Who knows.

Oh, good. I know you had some trepidation about going to that reunion, Karen. I'm glad it turned out well and you had a good time.

Joe, it was full of lots of folks I have no memory of, (class was just too big and I was very much an outsider) but everyone was very nice, and friendly, and there were some good stories. I did enjoy visiting with my two good girl friends.

Glad you enjoyed it, Karen.

I went to one reunion, my 20th. Our class was 667 strong, so I didn't know many people there, and my best friends didn't show. It was disappointing.

Lord willing, I may go to #40, but that's about five years away.

Karen - Sounds like you had a lovely time for the most part. So happy to hear that!

Yes, I did have a lovely time. But I confess I would not want to do this every year.

Here's another fine time:

Ah, looking perfect for a night - or day - out on the town.

And this was just before his bath! Shiny coat, isn't it.

Oh, that is SO cute!

Handsome fella!

thank you so much, I'll tell him!

He's adorable! What is he, a Scotty?

He is a Miniature Schnauzer. Smaller than a Scottie, with a somewhat shorter snout, but still has a very definite "schnauze" (or how ever it is spelled in German). He was a rescue dog and I got him just before I retired. He has been with me through thick and thin the last 11 years, and he is getting quite elderly. He was 5 (supposedly, reported by the Animal Shelter people) when I adopted him. So he might be 16-17 years old now. He has pain in his back, and so he gets pain pills and anti-inflammatories, he is a little anemic so the doc gave him some Prilosec and other tummy pills. Between the two of us we have a regular Pharmacy here!

I love him dearly and am very sad to know he will be finding his way "to another plane of existence" soon. His buddy, Greta Garbo, will have to be my only pal, until I find another Miniature Schnauzer puppy! They are like potato chips.

I can talk about my dogs for just as long as I can talk about books.

Talk about them all you like! :)

awwwwwwwwwwww poochie pooh! Such a zorch fellow with his red collar! *schmoozle*

Richard, he hears you! And is smiling!

ETA: auto correct tried to make the smiling into skiing! Bah, humbug. Technology. Sigh.

I'm not a fan of little dogs, even though I own one, (long story). I'm a big dog person but I like the way this little guy looks. My lab is 13, so I'm with you on the elderly part. Toughest part of dog ownership.

Miniature Schnauzers run to between 10 and 25 lbs. Since they were bred down from standard schnauzers (about the size of a standard poodle) they tend to vary and some are bigger, some are much smaller. I like the 20 lbs. version. Big enough to not be fragile, but small enough that a little old lady such as I can pick them up. Nicky (above photograph) is closer to 15 lbs as he ages Greta, his partner in crimes about the house and yard, is closer o 20 lbs. I love her to bits, too. She sleeps with me, under the covers. As they do not shed, they are easy on the house. No dog hair, all over every where, thank goodness!

Adorable picture of Greta!

Ms climbed up on some boxes to reach up to the butcher block and grab a BIG bar of dark chocolate! Little devil - trip to the vet, they made her throw up and said she had great big chunks of the chocolate. Cost me a bunch of money! Damn. But she is alive and recovering.

How is Miss G this afternoon?

She seems fine although a little more often looking to sit on my lap than normal. But I think it is all good. Thanks for asking.

Karen - So glad that Greta Garbo is fine after her chocolate indulgence. Poor baby! And I LOVE the photo of her amidst the daffodils up there!

Thanks, Mamie. She is pretty cute, even if she looks like a "little old man".

Oh, lovely dog photos! Glad Greta made it through the chocolate episode OK.

I'm glad you had such a nice time at the reunion. I only went to one high school reunion, and found it somewhat awkward. I think name tags might have been nice. It was only 15 years out, and already it was hard to identify people -- especially the guys, many of whom had much thicker waists and much thinner hair than when I'd last seen them. Add in the ones who'd grown or shaved facial hair since last meeting, and I hardly recognized any of them. I recognized more of the gals, but it seemed like none of the crowd that I hung out with in high school chose to attend. I did connect with one woman who was a friend more from elementary school days, and had a nice conversation. I never got an invitation to another reunion -- perhaps they lost track of me?

Our name tags were the best. They had a copy of our Sr. yr. annual picture and our name, they were laminated, and had a sticky back that you could stick to your blouse, and then remove it and put it on a jacket, and then move it again. People were very funny at leaning in and staring at your name tag so they could try to remember you. I received lots of "I remember you", but truth be told, I think they lied for politeness sake. It was fun!

ETA: Call the school and ask to be put in touch with the people who organized the last one.

Oh, those name tags sound nice! I wish we'd had those . . . or any kind of name tag . . . ;)

Finished reading The Night Circus and am mulling over my "review". I loved the book, that is not the problem. The challenge is finding a way to capture why I loved the book in a way which might convince you to read it.

So, it starts, sorta, with a farm boy walking from his farm to a circus which has just arrived in the neighborhood, unexpectedly. And it is an odd circus as it is open only at night. Well, and then, it is also odd because it is basically all in black and white. Dramatic. And Mysterious. Then you get to meet some of the people who manage the circus, produced the circus, and are continuing to be a part of the circus. And then, just like the circus is a bit weird, perhaps magical, perhaps other-worldly and unsettling, more of the story becomes just so, also.

The books settings are not all at the circus. As the story and the circus develop the reader is treated to the acquaintance of people "behind" the circus. And their social life with each other is reminiscent of turn of the century dinner parties with the rich and famous. And they are entertaining, too.

Finally, there is a love story. So there you have it: A really weird, and wonderful, circus; a varied and entertaining social set including a couple magicians; and a love story. All shot through with magic, smoke and mirrors, and marvelous writing.

Read it. Really, you want to.

Oh, five stars from me.

Maggie- Good review of the Night Circus! And 5 stars too? Wow! I think I was closer to 4. And I agree with you about the difficulty describing this book. I don't think I ever reviewed it. I wimped out.

ETA- You should add a touchstone to your review, so we can Thumb you faster!

Cross posting - I just posted a note on your thread.

Whimp! Whimp!

You can always try again....

I understand giving it a 4, but I gave it a 5 because it called to me all the time, "read me, read me". When a book grabs a hhold of me like that, its a 5 from me. I'm not a literary sort so I can do that. No reputation to uphold.

>52 msf59: "you should add a touchstone to your review, so we can Thumb you faster!"

Isn't that putting the square brackets around the name of the novel, so you can click on it and go to its page? I did that, I thought Did I err?

ETA: Oh, I got it. The above was copied from the original which is posted over in The Green Dragon, on my thread there. When we copy, the brackets fall off, and need to be added back in. Done!

>51 maggie1944: I am so so pleased that the book made you feel this way! *smooch*

You made me think, I was seeing things! LOL. You gotta big Thumb from me, even if you called me a WIMP, which I deserved.

Thumbs up from me!

Nice review of The Night Circus, Karen!

Richard, you frequently make me happy! But when I read a lovely book like that one, I'm very happy!

Mark, I appreciate your suggestion. And thanks for the thumb.

luvamystery65, You, too! Roberta, Thank you.

Darryl, your praise is much appreciated.

I feel very fortunate to have such good reading bud dies. You all have made my reading life very much richer than before LT.

#51: I loved The Night Circus too, Karen. Glad you did too!

Thanks, Stasia!

Nice review - thumb from me! You're right, it is a hard book to describe to someone, but I absolutely LOVED it. Read it from the library, and when I had finished went out and bought my own copy.

I totally understand you buying your own copy. This is one to lend to your really good friends! thanks or the thumbs up!

Here's another wonderful place to read:

Lovely! And I'm guessing that a snuggle with Greta while you're reading makes it all the nicer.

WANT! Love that, and red is my very favorite color!

>164 maggie1944: I love the red couch! What a nice place to read or hang out with the lovely Greta.

Greta's even leaving room for you. Nice!

LOVE the couch and of course the gorgeous poochums!

Thanks everyone for stopping by and for the admiration for the red sofa! I love it, too. I think I've needed a red sofa all my life!

So! The Seattle Storm beat Minnesota tonight in a double overtime game. Very exciting!! Sue Bird and Lauren Jackson both did well. They play next on Tuesday in Minnesota, I think.

Boooooo!

Oh! Thanks, Morphy, for checking in with your team's progress! The Minnesota Lynx are a great team, but the Seattle Storm is not finished.

Off gallivanting today? Haven't seen you.

My husband would LOVE your red sofa!

Congrats on the Storm's win, Karen!

Richard, today is a take care of kids part of the time, + I returned to the YMCA to join in the 3X a week, in the warm swimming pool, exercises for oldsters and gymps. I think I qualify on both notes. Sat in the hot tub, too. Did some weeding in the back yard assisted by an ambitious but not very energetic 4 year old. "This is hard work" sez she. Played with the children of next door neighbor and gave him a referral to LibraryThing. I think he'd love it. I hope he checks it out. So, as you see, not much reading, not much lurking, and very soon I'm shutting the computer and going to do a few household chores.

Reading, tonight, too! Beautiful weather. Oh, that reminds me..... must download picture from last night.

Hi, Roni, and hi, Joe. I'll be right back with a cool pic.

Hi Karen- Hope you had a good day. I finally posted a couple photos of Bailey. I know you were asking about it.

Here's fuzzy pic from my iPhone while I stood amongst several Seattle Strom fans, all taking pictures of the full moon and the Space Needle. Fun.

Nothing wrong with a fuzzi picture...

;)

Over here from the garden thread to say hello to the space needle.

Hi Karen, love the red couch and the sweet dog too. I enjoyed The Night Circus too when I read it last year. Glad you had fun at your reunion.

If you photoshopped out the bottom of the needle it would make a great UFO picture!

I do not know how to do Photoshop and I've tried and found it to be impossibly complex for my brain. Sigh. I might be able to crop off the bottom of the Space Needle in iPhoto, but I'm not sure I need a UFO picture. ha ha ha

It is mostly a fun picture to remind me of the silly scene of all these basketball fans walking from the end of the game to their cars - all stopped and snapping pictures with their phones. I could not not do it, too. I figured someone would take my iPhone away from me if I did not join the mob.

What a great place to read -- and a great companion to snuggle with while reading!

Thanks. It is just about perfect. I have a little pellet stove which also makes the room very comfy and toasty during the dank, dark, dribbles of pacific northwest winters.

*smooch* just cause

Richard, I appreciate your sweetness and sense of humor. I'm up way too early this morning so that's all I can say.

Morning Karen- Hope you have a good day and your current read is a "keeper"!

Hi Karen,
My, you have been busy on LT of late. I'm way behind. I love the fuzzy picture of the space needle; I thought the Storm was going to take an early exit, but they are still in it?

Sadly, no, they lost their 3rd game agains Minnesota by one point.

I know...I'm too often playing here when there are other things I should be doing, like finishing 1492: The Year the World Began so that I can start my October books.

...dear...?

I have made too many commitments for October! Awk.

So, I have started reading Rebecca even though I've not quite finished 1492: The Year the World Began. I have sitting next to my reading chair: Tales of H.P. Lovecraft and (it is only 6:36 am here, and I'm moving at a glacial speed) The Haunted Bookshop on my Kindle. Also, my RL book group will be discussing Triangle: The Fire That Changed America by David Von Drehle in November, so I must read it.

Sitting next to me, waiting patiently, is the infamous The Years of Lyndon Johnson: The Passage of Power which I was so excited to read. I've made it to page 413 before being distracted. Must make some progress in that book, too.

When I've finsihed all that, I'll start Team of Rivals fr the big group read in November.

I think I have lots to read. I will be starting to do some serious reading today. Yes, I will (I hope).

(92) And..?

Don't leave me hanging!

And oh, yeah, I also downloaded Curse of the Mistwraith by our own Janny Wurts. I am watching the spoiler thread grow every day, and I've not even started the book. Awk awk awk.... what am I doing reading threads, and posting my ramblings when I need to be reading!!!

Morning Karen- I'll have to add Triangle: The Fire That Changed America to the List. Sounds like my cuppa. Have you ever read The Circus fire? It's haunting and outstanding.
I plan on tackling Team of Rivals too. Back to back Monsters!

I have not read The Circus Fire although I know that was a big issue back in the day. Sounds like a book I'd like to read.

I just remembered that in addition to the above books, I also have Persepolis calling to me from the tall TBR pile next to my Chair.

So, It is

1. finsih 1492: The Year the World Began
2 - 4.. tackle Halloween readings: Rebecca
Tales of H.P. Lovecraft and
Haunted Bookshop then,
5. Curse of the Mistwraith with the Green Dragon group read; next,
6. Triangle: The Fire that Changed America for my real life book group
7. Persepolis will be read because it is a graphic novel, and will be a quick one, I think.
8. Get started on Team of Rivals and when I have time I will read more of
9. The Years of Lyndon Johnson: The Passage of Power.

Silly. I doubt I'll get all this done, but I can try and I will enjoy all the reading.

The Circus Fire is on Mount TBR if you decide to add it to yours.

oh, Morphy, we could have a group read of 2

Well, I'll stick it on the wishlist but right now I'm overwhelmed by what you see in #96

Morning Karen! That is quite the list you have for October. Tackle what you can and remember it is the journey not the destination. Have a lovely Sunday.

How are Nicky and Garbo?

Happy Cascadian Sunday, Tea Lady!

Thanks, Roberta (luvamystery65), you are right! It is quite a list and I had to put "pen to paper" to capture it. I realized I had made many promises to myself and was at risk of losing track. So, now I have a track, and I'm not overly concerned about dates and such. The journey is all!

Nicky and Garbo seem fine. Nicky had a "sleep over" at my foster daughter's house last night. We were trying a "dry run" to see if he in his present state of elderliness could adjust to her dogs, and her place. He is partially blind, partially deaf, and very attached to his habits of being fed at "such an' such" a time. She is very sweet, and empathetic with her dogs, but also needs a certain schedule herself. She called me at 4:30 am to say he'd awakened and was barking to have his morning meal. I suggested she could try feeding him, and then he'd go back to sleep, but she insisted I come get him (we had agreed last night that I would do that if his barking was unreasonable). It was OK with me as I usually get up very early any way...... so off I went. Got him and once home he settled right down to sleep.

Greta is fine. She ate her breakfast in the car, and fell to sleep as soon as we got back.

I am fine. Reading threads, and finishing my October RL book club selection.

Thank you, Sir Richard. My Sunday is set up to be perfect: reading, eating, enjoying Autumnal Sunshine!

I just finished reading 1492: The Year the World Began and am glad of it. I will save what I think of it for a little while. I want to cogitate on it as my reactions are mixed; and I want to save some comments for my RL book group, tomorrow evening.

For those who read this, and are curious I will say that I liked reading it for the most part, and recommend those who enjoy reading popular history should at least take a look at reading it.

My Freddy is eleven and he is rapidly losing his eyesight. His hearing isn't what it used to be and he has always been a nervous nellie. Of my three he is the most high maintenace and also an early riser for breakfast. Fortunately, one of my best friends owns a doggy daycare/groom and board shop. All of my dogs have gone there for years so Freddy is quite comfortable there and they are used to his neurosis. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have Darci's. I hope you find a place for Nicky in case of emergencies. It is so hard for them when they are older.

Yes, it is a challenge. Luckily, my foster daughter loves Nicky and knew him from when I first rescued him. She is a self confident dog lover and will take good care of him while I am in Hawaii, I am sure. For the most part, I assume I'm going to be nursing him through these end years. I love my Greta Garbo for being that dog which is still healthy and fun to be with, chasing about the house playing keep away with doggie toys.

Our six year old, Maia, has a new game she likes to play. When it is time for bed, she likes to play the "pounce on the hands under the covers" game. As long as we aren't too tired, we indulge her. Spoiled little girl.

I finished reading the graphic novel Persepolis and I did "enjoy" it. Enjoy is a difficult word to use in describing the horrors which were Iran just after the Islamic Revolution in 1979. This book was written by a young woman of an upper class family who lived through the societal upheaval and was able to leave for school in Europe. She very cleverly is able to tell the story of arrests, torture, killings, imposition of strict Islamic norms, closing of the university, and disappearance of people, without being overly tragic and all the while keeping the unique voice of a young girl, with idealism and loyalty to family and country. I feel good about recommending everyone should read it. It is not challenging. It is charming. And you will learn something. That is saying a great deal in favor of a graphic novel.

Progress Reports: Out of 9 planned for October, 2 finished today! Whoo hoo

1. Finish 1492: The Year the World Began COMPLETED
2 - 4. Tackle Halloween readings: Rebecca
Tales of H.P. Lovecraft and
Haunted Bookshop then,
5. Curse of the Mistwraith with the Green Dragon group read; next,
6. Triangle: The Fire that Changed America for my real life book group
7. Persepolis will be read because it is a graphic novel, and will be a quick one, I think. COMPLETED
8. Get started on Team of Rivals and when I have time I will read more of
9. The Years of Lyndon Johnson: The Passage of Power.

SEVEN LEFT TO GO.... LET'S SEE, WHAT IS NEXT. I THINK I'LL TRY Curse of the Mistwraith as I've read that it is a bit dense and so I'd better see if I have any hope of reading it quickly.

(105) Morph, we used to play that with our terrier, but our current behemoth is not allowed on the bed...she's too big!

I was raised in Connecticut, and recall hearing about the circus fire, from the 1940s? My grandmother and my aunt were going to go that day, but changed their minds.

I read a few years ago that they finally identified the little girl who was killed but never claimed by her parents. One of the firemen attended her 'unknown' grave for years, very touching.

Go, Karen, go! :)

Nope, did not crack open the Nook for Curse of the Mistwraith; turned to the Kindle for The Haunted Bookshop and I think I'm glad I did.

Whoop for the completes!

Wow Karen, your October plan looks daunting. Lots of very serious reading. I own Triangle: The Fire that Changed America and will be looking for our comments on that.

Triangle: The Fire That Changed America would be very appropriate to start on Columbus Day.

There is an excellent documentary on the Triangle Fire available on Netflix if you are interested, Karen.

Morning Karen- Hope the weekend went well and I'm glad you enjoyed Persepolis. I can't remember if I read just the 1st volume or the Complete Version. I'll have to check.

Good morning Karen!

I thought Persepolis was amazing, too. I loved the subtlety she infused in her drawings. I've only read the first volume although I did read the large portion of the second volume online at Amazon. The storyline of sheltered girl living on her own in Vienna while being thrown into the middle of westernized Europe--sex, drugs and rock n roll -- doesn't sound quite so appealing, but eventually I'd like to read all of them.

In the meantime, I'm going to rewatch the movie made from it--which I only remember as being somewhat disappointing after all the hype I had heard.

I did order the second one. I don't mind that it is not such a charming story.

Yay for Persepolis! I'm glad you're going to read the second one, Karen. It's worth it. And her shorter Embroideries is good, too.

Thanks for the suggestions

and encouragement

am having an RA flare so I'm not typing a lot

bye

Ah, sorry to hear it, Karen. Hope the RA improves quickly for you.

BOO HIIISSSSSS on flares. So sorry! *healing smooch*

thanks, Joe and Richard

Can you read while having an RA flare? :(

depends

sometimes all I want is sleep

other times some reading works

mostly I have to learn how to function without full use of my right hand

Soft hugs to you Karen for your flare up. Tomorrow is my infusion day. It's what helps me keep working those 12 hours shifts. I am sending positive thoughts your way.

I hope the RA is less painful today! Sending you healing vibes!

Yes, healing vibes are working. I feel somewhat better this morning, and the hand works well enough to type. Although it is still a burden to carry anything heavy. Blah!

Thank you, all, for good wishes.

Karen, I'm so sorry you are under the weather. P came home early from work yesterday with the icky cold that seems to be going around. I doubt there is any way I can avoid it, but I'm going to try!

I also very much enjoyed Persopolis. And I noticed over on Mark's old thread that you have reserved a copy of Timothy Egan's new book. Released today, yes? I'm also excited about it.

Feel better...

I received an email saying the new Egan book is "in the mail". I would be delighted if I received it today!

Wow! The Egan book looks wonderful. Onto the wishlist it goes!

I see Egan's a Seattle- an (is there a better word)? Seattle-ites? Anyway, I'll have to alert my relocated son.

Seattleites is the term of art. I just say I'm from Seattle.

BTW, would you ask your son to give you a list of where he might be going for poetry slams. I might find myself moved to check them out. Always up for some new and different experiences.

thanks, Joe.

Yeah, but I call myself a Seattleite. :-P

xo

And there we go!

I do love this city!

*waves at Karen*

>132 maggie1944: He likes the Re-Bar, Karen, on? near? Capitol Hill: http://www.rebarseattle.com/. He can walk there from his Capitol Hill apartment. Tuesday nights are slam nights.

If he starts finding others, I'll let you know.

Waves back at kidzdoc, and says: Thanks, Joe.

Karen, I hope you are:
feeling better
enjoying Orcas Island
relishing your new Timothy Egan read......

Ellen: yes, yes, and yes! I cut my cable sometime back so this morning I am "enjoying" a few minutes of TV while th dogs eat their breakfast. We've already been outside walking around the drive around, me in my bright white, resort provided robe! Not yet 5:30 am, I think I am safe.

Resort is hardly the right word. Rustic - maybe a little bit. Cabin is not of the log variety but it is not luxury and I love it. The dogs are welcome and boy do they love thinking they might be able to chase some of those rabbits, or deer, that they smell.

So I have a long, quiet morning as the Barn Tour does not start until 11 am. I'll continue Egan. Loving it! Just read the chapter where he talks J.P. Morgan into funding 5 years of photograph field work! Amazing. This guy, Edward Curtis, had only a 6th grade education but his passion totally convincing!

More later....

Oh, oh! Barn Tour might be tough. I hear real rain drops on the roof, right now. it is 7 am, and there are 4 hours for it to get over itself. What do you think? Do you think it will stop raining for me?

Oh dear. You might be forced into staying in your white fluffy robe and continuing the Edward Curtis book. You have sooooo hit me with a book bullet with that one.

When you get back, I'd love to have you send me the contact info for the place you're staying. I found out my cousin is practicing in Anacortes--I am so thinking about a trip that direction. DD is still dithering about checking out the grad school in Seattle. I may have to do the trip with or without having her.

I am sitting in the big bed, reading the Curtis book. Fascinating. I am in the chapter where he sets to find out the "real" truth about Custer's Last Stand. He has just hired an Indian who had been taken to one of the infamous Indian schools, and as an adult had turned his back on much of mainstream society and was an advocate for Indians, who could speak English, and understood the laws. Powerful. He was of course condemned by the local American population. Fascinating that Curtis would hire him to interview people who had actually at the battle.

Still raining, still in my night shirt. Dogs both sound asleep. Just after 8 am, here.

Name of the place is Deer Harbor Inn on Orcas Island. But you should tell me more of what you would like to see if you were to come to Orcas, and let me send you some of the tourist brochures. There are lots of places to stay and this one is quite a little drive from the main small village.

I'm thinking about experimenting with putting the camera in a plastic bag with both ends open. The lens can thus see out one end and the photographers hand can reach the trigger through the other open end. Can't let a little rain get me down. Plus I have Edward Curtis to inspire me. He just did not give up. And one of the things he said, "good enough is child's play", will push me on to do better than good enough.

Love the Edward Curtis inspiration for your photography, Karen. Hope it's a relaxing, fun day for you. Sure sounds like a great start to it.

Lovely day, in the neighborhood. I fear the rain will knock the remaining leaves down. Must capture them.

I am waiting for the start time to arrive and am restless. Here's a not barn picture from yesterday.

How did I get behind here, Karen? Well I'm caught up now. Hope your RA is better. My hubby has it too and is just coming out of a major flare so I know what you're going through. Hang in there. I'm interested in the Egan book. Several years ago I read a novel about Curtis by Marianne Wiggins called The Shadow catcher that was quite good.

Karen- Sounds like you had a nice time at Orcas Island. I bet it is nice to be home, with the books and the peace and quiet.
I like the photos. Keep 'em coming.

ooops, not yet home. Just stopping by the computer in the middle of Saturday. Just finished the barn tour! Amazing, and fun. Lots of photographs to sort through. Going over to the SIL to help herd kids while their Mom has an evening out with her old school pals.

Photographs will be coming soon.

there is an album of photographs from the trip on my facebook page. I'm Karen Margaret Morgan there

>150 maggie1944: OOOOO

"Like"

Love the bunny! Your time on Orcas sounds pretty divine. I've said it before, but it bears repeating: the San Juan Islands are truly special.

Yes, those apples were all over the grounds of the Inn where I stayed. And the bunnies are wild. They might even be a bit of a menace and a nuisance. I imagine the people with gardens do not like the idea of Peter Rabbit coming in to have a snack.

I love being there. And the more I think of retirement #2 being on Orcas, the more I like it. After all, I could take all of you with me!

This is a working barn located at Camp Orkila, a YMCA camp, and it houses horses. I love how big and strong it is. I know they had to shore up the roof as it was originally footed on burned cedar posts which were rotting and the barn was sinking.

If you click on the barn it may take you to my photostream on flickr and you can see some more.

*sigh* So rural! So quiet!

So horrifying!

Yes, Richard, I am sure you would die of terminal "nothing exciting goin' on"! Me, I can sit under a tree and read all day and be in heaven.

And, oh, the barn does smell of hay, and horse apples, and dust! Love it!

No. Bunnies can't be a menace and a nuisance. Not possible.

My fantasy for retirement continues to be Kauai, but Orcas Island could very easily make its way onto that list.

Karen- More B & W photos? Cool. I know you finished and enjoyed the Egan book, what's up next?

noooooooo, I'm not finished yet..... I am having a hard time finding sufficient time to read. oh, woe is me! But I am not reading anything else really I promise

Then I think I'll read The Liberator about WWII, an Early Reviewer book, and I feel obligated to get it read. I've been a bad ERer for several years and I need to repair my rep.

Hi Karen, old barns are the backbone of our country. I love them.

Thanks, me, too!

Another fine old barn, updated and now houses a small herd of horses.

I am enjoying traveling with you!

Now this beauty was not found in the barn shown in #165. She was at Camp Orkila and I fell quite in love with her.

Lovely horse. Those delightful noses.

oh my, that is a lovely horse. I admit that I'm a bit afraid of them but I also love them.

Karen, you are a fan of Alan Furst, yes? I found a copy of Night Soldiers in my TBR pile (I mean, that pup was buried in the stacks) and I'm thinking about taking it with me to RI.... But there are so many others, too.....

Lovely horse picture. Just want to snuggle right up to her.

Yes, I think horses noses do just beg to be touched. And some horses have been known to like snuggling, but they are big, powerful animals with minds of their own, too. The last horse I tried to get a little too close to, bit me! Not hard but just grabbed my thumb and gave it a bit of a crunch! Ha! I backed off, which was what he wanted after all.

Yes, Ellen, I think Furst is a good writer and I enjoy the benefits of his having done research into the time he is writing about. He is good for traveling, not too dense, and not too suspenseful. Take it with you!

Karen- Love the horse photo! Hope you had a good day and got some reading in.

Mark, I confess, I have not had a minute for reading but it is all LT's fault, cuz I read all the dang threads.

Great photos, Karen!

What Darryl said. And they'll always conjure up great memories for you from your Orcas trip.

Thanks, Darryl, Joe. You guys are great encouragement.

I took a bunch at the kids' field trip yesterday and looking at them this morning I laughed at how out of focus they all were. Kids just don't stand still for a second. It is really tough to get candid photographs! But I can keep practicing!

I finished reading Timothy Egan's Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward Curtis. Here's my review:

Timothy Egan has carved out a niche of historical books set in the United States and in my reading of several of his works I'm impressed he has approached previously considered events or historical periods and added colorful and attractive people so that the reader can feel the historical events' human dimensions. He has never done this better than in this book about Edward Curtis.

Edward Curtis came to Seattle, Washington when it was a young, dirty, pioneer town populated by lumberjacks and gold miners. His father had brought the family and settled into poverty. Curtis attached himself to a photographer and began to take photographs of the town's inhabitants. He discover his great passion in life when he photographed the daughter of the Indian chief Seattle is supposedly named for. "Princess Angeline" was aged, poor, had a face with enough wrinkles to rival the interstate highway system of today. She was teased and bullied by the young boys and she threw rocks back at them. Her portrait shows her disgust with how her life has turned out due to these new settlers in her home country.

Curtis who had dropped out of school had the intelligence to see the magnificant American Indians and their way of life was doomed and if he did not take the photographs now, all evidence would be lost.

He spent the next 30-40 years traveling North American taking photographs, and doing anthropology he did not even know he was doing. He became associated with other great men: Teddy Roosevelt, J.P. Morgan, Edmund Meany, and a series of talented, dedicated assistants. He worked for nothing, and he paid his assistants little and seldom.

This book is the story of those years and the production of a 20 volume magnus opus: The Indians of North America. These volumes are rare and are seldom sold but with in the last decade they have been selling for $2 million and more. Individual prints of his photographs are famous and treasured. The work is hailed today by professionals and by the Indian communities Curtis documented.

This book brings all of this to life. I grew to love Curtis and I'm promising myself to go visit the gallery in Seattle which shows his work. Unfortunately, like many geniuses he was not appreciated when he was alive, and died in relative obscurity. Thankfully, a librarian in Seattle got wind of the work, and the man, and sought him out before he died. He corresponded with her and told her much of his story.

Timothy Egan has done his usual excellent research and I think the book is excellent (five stars). Recommended without reservation (opps, sorry should have thought of another word, maybe).

I finished the Edward Curtis book written by Timothy Egan (book 45 of my 75 books) ; and now, I will spend the evening trying to chose which book is next.....

I have a group read for Team of Rivals creeping towards me

I have an ER book - The Liberator sitting next to me, trying to make me feel guilty for ignoring it

I have a handful of October books, including Rebecca and Tales of H.P. Lovecraft also pulling on my sleeve

Then there is the LBJ volume 4 waiting for me to finish it (about 1/2 way through)

and Persepolis 2, too.

What do you think?

>178 maggie1944: I left you a message at Joe's cafe. Short version=ditch Rebecca move on to other more interesting books you have listed. :)

Thanks.

I'll recommend the Lovecraft for Halloweeniness.

Thumbs-upped your review!

I woke up this morning thinking: Lovecraft! Excellent idea, Richard.

My vote is for Lovecraft also, to lighten up after your information-laden non-fiction read. It's like having a lime sherbert with mint to cleanse the palate before the entree/ after the soup! Not that it's exactly light reading but it's fiction, it's fun and it's fear!!!! Enjoy! And thanks for the pictures, you really captured the essence of the horse with that shot.

Morning Karen- Good review of the Egan book. I'll have to get to that one early next year. I love this author.
I will be joining you for Team of Rivals. It's a bigger monster than 1Q84. I think it's over 40 hours on audio. Yikes.

Decisions, decisions, huh? I loved Rebecca. I have not read Lovecraft (what?) but it might be more fitting for October.

I did start Team of Rivals in bed last night but promptly feel to sleeping. I'll take it with me this morning so if I have a few minutes before the kids wake, I can get another page or three read. I'm looking forward to it!

I'm going to take both the book and audio out from the library. It's going to be a big task, but this is one of my favorite times in American history.

Hi Karen.
I have Team of Rivals on suspended hold at the library, set to reactivate on exactly November 1.

Great!

Wonderful review of the Edward Curtis/Timothy Egan book, Karen! Thumb from me. I must read some Mr. Egan soon. I'll be joining you in the TOR whopper reading.

yes, do get into some Timothy Egan books. They are excellent, in my experience.

I've made it to the library and here are the two books competing for my attention this coming three day weekend: Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created her by Melanie Rehak; and, Started Early, Took My Dog by Kate Atkinson. I'd put a bunc on "hold" and these two came roaring in. Sigh.

It will be a challenging weekend.

I have also Team of Rivals on the shelves Karen but am a bit daunted by its austere presence if truth be told. Will not probably pluck up sufficient courage to get to it this month. Have a lovely weekend.

Paul, depending on the other commitments you've made to other books, you might want to just crack it open and read a few paragraphs. You might find it not to be so daunting. Then again, I do understand. We have so many fine books to look at.....

You have a lovely weekend, too.

Hi Karen, thumb for you insightful review of the Egan book. I will also be joining you on the GR of Team of Rivals and will decide next week whether to take it out of the library (there's no queue for it right now so, readily available) or download the Kindle version since its a behemoth. Decisions, decisions...

I started reading it on my Kindle and first off there were some graphics! I am entertaining the idea of getting a hard copy of it just so I can see the graphics. I need to flip through a copy to see just how many maps, photographs, etc. there are. The one's I've seen on the Kindle were useless. Could not really see them at all, but my eyesight is pretty poor too.

I'll post on the thread about the group read what I decide, as well as here.

I shifted to reading Persepolis 2 until I can stop by B&N today and check out Team of Rivals in the actual book form.

Richard, Joe and Bonnie, thank you for the Thumbs Up. I am not yet used to receiving these encouragements, but I do like them!

*smooch*

*smooch8 back at you, and double it!

I did it. I ran right down to B&N and bought the soft cover copy of Team of Rivals and saw on the shelf that a book to foreshadow the movie was there, too. I also bought Placido Domingo's Songs on which he sings "From This Moment On" with Susan Boyle. Tears! Moved to tears.

I aslo showed the house and my real estate buddy thinks this group of 3 will rent it! Woo hoo. They took their applications home with them, and he and I discussed a package which they should be able to swing. Hold your thumbs, friends. I really could use the income for this little house in the west.

So, far, a good day!

ETA: the photographs and maps are very good in the book. I'm glad I bought it.

I'm lousy at holding my thumbs, Karen - I grew up crossing my fingers - but I'm doing it anyway. Sounds like there's a good chance you'll rent it. Good luck!

Thanks

Good luck Karen on the renters and yay for the book! I'm glad you bought it too.

I'm heading to Barnes and Noble tomorrow to buy the cd you mentioned.

It is wonderful, I've listened to it straight through three times!

Isn't it just marvelous when we can find music that resonates in such a deep way!!!!

Karen, your thread has become quite the Grand Central Station lately.... Very cool.

Joe, thanks for wishing for my good fortune, with which ever fingers you can grab! (-: I really appreciate the give and take on LT; it gives me all sorts of new ideas everyday. And Linda, yes, I agree that music is a great good gift. Thanks, Ellen. It is fun!

Morning Karen- Sending you good luck vibes from the Midwest! They should be rolling in any time. Hope you have a good day.

Mark, I'll let you know when they land. I don't know that I'll have an answer today or when? I'm going back to the rental house today to finish giving the floors a good cleaning; and to help my fix-it man take care of a major flooring issue. Ah, perfect Sunday, eh?

I hope to get some more reading in, too. I'm working on both Team of Rivals and Persepolis 2 with the latter being somewhat depressing, I admit.

Karen - wishing you the very best of luck with renting your place - btw the good luck vibes from the tropics are powerful - ask Mark - the Bears haven't lost since he roped me into their fan club!
Also love Placido Domingo who has a lovely tone - his duet with John Denver is a thing of beauty.

Ah, not only does LT feed my compulsion to buy, buy, and get books; now, music to go find! Domingo and Denver, eh?

*wanders off in search of some music*

oh, thanks *waves to Paul, over her shoulder*

Happy Sunday reading, dearie, though Persepolis 2 sounds like it'd challenge that wish to a duel.

Karen - I'm finally all caught up here and worth every moment! Loved the pictures that you took - talented you are - good eye! Also loved your review of the Egan book, so onto the WL it goes, and a thumb for you, my dear. Crossing my fingers for you over the rental and hoping that your RA does not flare up again. Sounds like you are on a roll this month!!

Thank you, very much, Mamie! I've got your potato soup in my view finder, too.

Thanks for the compliments on the photography. I do try and then occasionally I get discouraged and put it down for a bit. Nonetheless, it is a wonderful hobby now that one does not have to go to the store with rolls of film, and pay for all the bad shots, just to find one or two good ones.

It is very amusing how one can become just as busy in retirement as one was in one's profession...........

Timothy Egan is appearing in Seattle on Tuesday night, and I'm going go look and see if I can get a ticket.... I am such a fan of his.

Oh, I hope you like the potato soup! And you are so right about digital photography - we have tubs of photos and negatives from when the kids were little sitting in the guest bedroom right now that I need to go through and scan the "keepers" into the computer. A Herculean task, trust me. I took tons of photos when they were small - went on every field trip and recorded the moment for everyone. The teachers used to ask for copies of my photos because I photographed everything, not just my kids. Then I used to put together the yearbook for the elementary school, so tons of photos from that. The digital stuff is just so great because it doesn't take up space, and you can just delete what you don't want, no money wasted trying to get the perfect shot.

I can see where you could be just as busy if not busier in retirement than when working in a profession! Hopefully for you it is a good busy - if not, just say no. Although I know that is easier to say than to do...

I read The Worst Hard Time earlier this year and really liked it, so I would definitely dip into something else by him. Love his writing style! Hope you can get a ticket to see him - wouldn't that be so fabulous?!

I just did! Easy peasey! Town Hall in Seattle for $5.00. I think the charge just to try to get a sense of the size of the crowd. Can't make too much money that wasy. I thought it was this coming Tuesday, but it is the one after that, so I'll have the day off and can spend some leisure time in Seattle, maybe. That could be fun, too!!

Yes, I know what you mean about school daze. I went on a field trip on Friday and shot all sorts of pictures, most of which went right into the trash. But based on the few that were good the preschool teacher said "I should ask you to come in and take pictures!" Wow! I am on that like "stupid on a turkey". I'll just have to find a time....

WahHOO!! Good for you! And I'm not surprised that the teacher asked you to come in and take pictures - you have a good eye! Here's hoping you find the time!

(167) Palomino? Looks like it with that flaxen mane!

Nope, she (he) is warm brown, a beauty horse, for sure. I sent them a couple of questions but have not heard back. I think the horse is young and I just want to know what her back ground is....

I'm so pleased that you got a ticket for Timothy Egan!

Sweet dreams Karen!

Yes, Ellen, I'm impressed with myself, too. Being willing to pick up the feet and go all the way into Seattle, find parking, and find a seat in the hall. But I am sure Mr. Egan will be very interesting to hear. And I can probably get him to sign my book, too. At least I hope. I've noticed there is a new practice of saying "the author will be signing only books purchased here this evening.

Thanks for the good wishes. I slept very well last night! Honest physical labor is a good sleeping potion; plus, I had the wonderful Mamie's potato soup. I'll bet that helped, too.

Ok, I have the wonderful Jocelyn to spend the day with, today. I have to think what we shall do. Perhaps see if we can finish up our painting of doll house furniture? Maybe a walk in the woods with the camera, depending on the showers? We shall see how she feels.

Karen how far is Lake Stevens from Seattle? I hope the Timothy Egan book signing goes off well.

It takes me about 45 minutes, without any traffic, to get from my door into Seattle. It is all "freeway" which is seldom free of traffic. So it can take as long as 1.5 hrs. That is awful! The night of the appearance should be relatively easy.

Book 46 (I think). Finished reading the Graphic Novel Persepolis 2 by Marjane Satrapi. As a teenager Marjane left Iran to live and study in Europe. While there she wrote her first graphic novel about the Iranian revolution and how she and her family coped. The second book is about how she coped in Europe; and on return to Iran. There is a gentle naiveté about her writing and yet she does not pull her punches in criticizing the Islamists who have taken over Iran. Ms. Satrapi now lives in Paris, and writes childrens books and for magazines.

I liked both books. The authors descriptions of late adolescence and young adulthood are very apt, and I could not help but appreciate how difficult it was for her to go through the "revolution". The repressive regime did make her life much more difficult and I admired her ability to work around it successfully until she left Iran for good.

Karen- When is the Egan event? That sounds like a nice opportunity. I can only imagine, that he would be a very interesting guy to listen to.
I just started Destiny of the Republic, which is going to be another NF winner.

I put Destiny of the Republic on my WL. Dang. I'm overwhelmed with wishes!!!

The Egan event will be Tuesday, the 30th. I have that day off from kids so I will probably spend some time in Seattle just knocking about, which I have not done for months. Could be fun.

I do love my nonfiction, I will admit it!

Thanks for stopping by, Mark. Onwards.... or rather, it is Forward!

The Egan talk sounds like fun. Wish I could be there for it--too bad it's not on a weekend; I might give it a try.

Will you go on with Persepolis?

Is there more after 2? I can't make head/tails over what I have seen on Amazon. Looks like 3 and 4 were condensed into 2. 3/4 were in Europe, and 2 in the USA? I don't really know.

She also wrote some childrens books but I don't think I'll go after them.

Well, I'm feeling the winter months are settling in around my house and I'm feeling the anticipation for going to Hawaii. I think it will be great fun to read Team of Rivals in that efflorescent and bucolic environment as my buddies here at home hunker down to avoid the raindrops which will be falling on their heads!

I figured that if I read 25 pages every day I'll be finished before November is done. So, that is my goal! Last night I made 13 pages! ooops.

Karen it's actually cool enough here in Houston for long sleeves today. It finally feels like fall! Finishing up my October reads and will delve right into the TOR next week. I'm glad you started early since you will be going to Hawaii. I'm looking forward to hearing about your trip.

There will be pictures, too. I promise.

Hi Karen, just catching up with what's going on. Enjoy Hawaii. I'm sure it will be warming than our frostbitten mornings here in Scotland.

Did you ever finish Rebecca? I thoroughly enjoyed it, but it wasn't quite what I imagined it to be. Should really drag Persepolis home with me one night. The joys of having your own school library to plunder ;-)

Hi, Jen, thanks for stopping by to see what is going on. Busy, busy, busy. It is my way, I guess.

Nope, did not finish Rebecca, in fact completely dumped the idea of October reads in favor of reading Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward Curtis. He was a local boy back in the early 1900s who became quite obsessed with photographing the American Indians (and Canadian, too) before their original way of life was completely gone. He traveled all over the American west and took some truly remarkable photographs. His life story was very interesting, and I really ejoyed reading that book!

Now, I'm undertaking a challenge to read 25 pages every day of Team of Rivals about Abraham Lincoln and his political rivals who he appointed to offices in his cabinet. Brilliant! There is a group read for it, and I'm trying to be the "moderator" or whatever of the GR, and go to Hawaii, too. I'll take the book (full of photographs and maps) with me in my luggage, and take my Kindle with it on it, too.

My newest curiosity now is to find out if I get iBooks from Apple can I slowly phase out my Kindle and my Nook and do all of my reading on my MacBook Air.

Rainy, cool, and gray here. Nice weather for reading. My pellet stove is happily burning and making homey noises. Dogs are asleep. I am content.

Karen- Hope you are enjoying your day! I listened to a big chunk of Team of Rivals today and just started Chapter 4. Chapter 3 was a monster. I'm really enjoying this book.

I just downloaded the Kindle app on the computer so I can read it on my computer, in bed! Woo hoo.

Party this evening, and may have to go work at Rental house tomorrow, but I'm working on it!

#232 Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher sounds utterly brilliant. Early photography is fascinating. I'll keep an eye out for that.

I think you will enjoy it. There is lots about early photography and the the photographers, too.

Been added to the Amazon shortlist :-)

Help. Some one of the threads I follow mentioned an organization which works to connect readers with writers; they will have three get togethers next year - one in Bellingham Washington - and two others. I lost track of the name of the organization in my sieve of a brain. Books on A shelf maybe; or books on the book shelf

something like that

help, What is its name?

Karen - I think it was on Mark's thread. Books on the Nightstand? Ask Mark because he will know.

That is it! Books on the Nightstand. I think Books on the Bookshelf was a pretty good guess, just not a correct guess!

Any way they have deadlines and I thought I'd better make note of the one for Bellingham.

Karen- Mamie is correct, it is Books on the Nightstand. Here is the website:
http://booksonthenightstand.com/
This is a great podcast!

Thanks. I found them last night and feel asleep listening to a podcast. The trouble with me and listening is that I have a long established habit of falling to sleep to the radio. I don't know if I'll ever be able to pay attention, consciously, when listening.

I am seriously considering their Bellingham even in June, however. It sounds like good fun!

Karen - You hit on why I don't think audio books are for me; I have exactly the same problem listening to the radio and falling asleep as you seem to have, but then again countless are the times I have awoken with my glasses askew and my book almost breaking the skin of my cheeks.

ah, well, I am fortunate in that regard. I don't fall to sleep with the book in my hands; I usually recognize my eyes are not focused on the page, and I put it aside, shut the light, hit the pillow, and I'm gone.

Not so with the radio, or other audio, because the light is off when I start listening and the pillow is under my ear.

Oh, gosh! I just found that I've been "awarded" another Early Reviewers book. That is two that I will have, and I will "owe" a review. I'd better get cracking in reading TOR so I can get the ER books read, too!

Those ER books have a way of sneaking up on you, don't they Karen. I didn't opt for any this month mostly because last month I won one that I don't remember ever signing up for. It's yet to arrive which is highly unusual in my experience. They usually arrive within two weeks of notification by LT.

The arrivals depend entirely on how good the publisher is, or not. I've had some that arrived a long time afterwards.

I have just come home after hearing Timothy Egan talk about his Edward Curtis book. He is so enthusiastic! He made me fall in love with his book all over again. And so I had him sign the book, but did not really get to say anything to him as someone else was distracting him with some other task. Very disappointing because I really did want to tell him how much I admire his passion for his subjects.

I then got to thinking about The Big Burn and how much I loved it, and began to worry I'd sold my copy. I know I had him sign that one too, and I may have to do a great book search tomorrow! And if I did sell it (stupid me) I may have to get another copy and chase him down and get him to sign it, which then leads me to think that probably I need a copy of The Worst Hard Time signed by him, too.

Compulsion, anyone?

I had a great time this evening. Even ran into a colleague of mine from back in the school teaching days (over 10 years ago, now) I hope she calls me so we can have coffee and catch up!

Karen- I'm glad you had a good time at the Egan talk. Yes, I'm jealous!

Yes, the Timothy Egan event was perfect. Good seat. Egan was energetic and enthusiastic, tells a good story. Questions were smart and brief. Slides of photographs were not just a rehash of the ones in the book. And photographs are available from The New York Times, as well as all over the place. Interesting he did not give Flury and Company a shout out. I did get my book signed. Now I have to be careful because I think he's my newest fav author, and I can do silly things like "I want to have hard back copies of all his books, with signatures". I looked on Amazon.... not cheap!

It sounds like a wonderful evening Karen.

Hi Karen- I finally stumbled over to the TOR thread. Some great discussion's going on over there. I'm doing very well with the book, (thank you audio!) and just started chapter 14, which means I'm closing in on the halfway mark. I needed a big head-start. I'm on vacation next week, so I will not be getting much listening in, although I do have the book at hand too!
I need to start taking notes though and jot down the better moments. I end up moving on and forgetting the better bits.

I am just now learning how to high light, and am having fun marking this and that! Great stuff!

In case you missed it, here is a link to the Team of Rivals discussion; http://www.librarything.com/topic/143910

Missed your reply about the Persepolis sequels. I believe you're right in that in the US, the volumes have been combined so that 1 & 2 are number 1 and that 3 & 4 are volume 2. Could that get any more confusing? Looks like the LT catalog is a mess on that point. Anyhoooo....I've ordered number 2 from the ILL.

It's one of those books that I truly want to read, but have been putting off with the feeling that I am so behind on group reads.

All caught up over here - so glad that you had fun at the Egan event. So cool that you were able to attend that! And a signed copy - WahHOO!!

As I know you saw over on my thread, I picked up my (large and heavy) copy of Team of Rivals at the library today. I will start on it tomorrow, figuring it's one I can simul-read along with my current fiction work (The Garden of Evening Mists).

I guess our dry spell is over, eh?

yes, big time. My back yard is all green again. And the weeds are so happy.

And the weeds are so happy.
Yes, indeed.
Our Japanese Maples are shedding leaves at a great rate. For some reason, P raked up the leaves yesterday. Did it again today. I guess she will do it again tomorrow.

Autumn was always my favourite season - playing amongst the leaves in our large garden growing up and then collecting them up as the wind with its deceitful breath decided to play havoc with our efforts. Have a lovely weekend Karen.

Ellen, my Japanese Maple still has all her brilliantly red leaves although all the other trees are pretty near nude. I wonder why?

Paul, I love Autumn, too. Playing with the leaves, brilliantly blue skies, chilly evenings, smell of wood stoves or leaves burning (all pretty much gone now, air pollution is largely from wood burning these days). Thanks for the good wishes, I'm working on a good one! Did a lot of reading today. Joy.

Oh, I see it is time to move along to a new thread. Please come and join me there!