Crazymamie's 75 in 2012 (Page 15)

Birdy's Fifth Birthday. She will be fourteen on October 8th.

Currently Reading


October
91.

October Options

Group Reads
Tortilla Flat by John Steinbeck (#8)
IQ84 by Haruki Murikami (#14) IQ84 Group Read Thread This is hosted by Mark.

TIOLI Candidates
Snow Falling on Cedars (#1)
Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris (#11) – this would be a reread
The Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowling (#2)
The Siege by Helen Dunmore (#9)


Halloween Themed Reading Here's the link: Halloween reading Thread
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
Interview With a Vampire by Anne Rice
Dracula by Bram Stoker (#3)
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (#11) - audiobook

Hey, Wait a Minute...This Wasn’t on the List

Simmering on the Back Burner...Books begun but not yet done
The Iliad by Homer
Elegy for Easterly by Petina Gappah
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Me, Who Dove into the Heart of the World by Sabina Berman

An idea stolen from Heather (souloftherose), who borrowed it from Liz (lyzard): ongoing series that I am actively reading. This doesn't include series where I have the first book in my TBR pile (i.e. series I haven't started reading yet aren't included). An asterisk (*) indicates a series where I already have a copy of the next book. A pointing finger (☛) indicates a series where I am waiting for the next book to be released.

1. African Trilogy by Chinua Achebe: Next Up: Arrow of God (3/3)

2. *Charley Davidson by Darynda Jones: Next Up: Third Grave Dead Ahead (3/4)

3. Chief Inspector Armand Gamache by Louise Penny: Next Up: A Fatal Grace (2/8)

4. *Commissario Montalbano by Andrea Camilleri: Next Up: The Snack Thief (3/15)

5. ☛ Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor: Next Up: Days of Blood and Starlight (2/3)

6. *Divergent by Veronica Roth: Next Up: Insurgent (2/3)

7. *Dr. Siri Paiboun by Colin Cotterill: Next up: Love Songs From a Shallow Grave (7/8)

8. Duncan Kincaid/ Gemma James by Deborah Crombie:Next Up: Leave the Grass Green (3/14)

9. ☛ Dust Lands by Moira Young: Next Up: Rebel Heart (2/3)

10. The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan: Next Up: The Dead tossed Waves (2/3)

11. *Harry Bosch by Michael Connelly: Next Up: The Narrows (10/18)

12. *Harry Hole by Jo Nesbo: Next Up: The Snowman (7/9)

13. ☛ The Ibis Trilogy by Amitav Ghosh: Next Up: ? (3/3)

14. *In Death by J. D. Robb: Next Up: Glory in Death (2/44)

15. *Inspector Sejer by Karin Fossum: Next Up: He Who Fears the Wolf (2/9)

16. *Jack Taylor by Ken Bruen: Next Up: The Magdalen Martyrs

17. *James Bond by Ian Fleming: Next Up: Live and Let Die (2/14)

18. *Kenzie and Gennaro by Dennis Lehane: Next Up: Sacred (3/6)

19. *Lady Julia Gray by Deanna Raybourn: Next Up: The Dark Enquiry (5/5)

20. *Matched by Ally Condie: Next Up: Crossed (2/3)

21. *Millenium Trilogy by Steig Larrson: Next Up: The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest (3/3)

22. *Philip Marlowe by Raymond Chandler: Next Up: The Little Sister (5/8)

23. *Raylan Givens by Elmore Leonard: Next Up: Raylan (3/3)

24. *Sookie Stackhouse by Charlaine Harris: Next Up: Dead in the Family (9/12)

25. Temperance Brennan by Kathy Reichs: Next Up: Grave Secrets (5/15)

26. Vish Puri by Tarquin Hall: Next Up: The Case of the Man Who Died Laughing (2/3)

27. *Walt Longmire by Craig Johnson: Up Next: Kindness Goes Unpunished (3/8)

28. *Wine Country Mysteries by Ellen Crosby: Next Up: The Chardonnay Charade (2/6)

29. ☛Wolf Hall Trilogy by Hilary Mantel: Next up: ? (3/3)

January
1. The Sense of an Ending - Julian Barnes (4 stars)
2. Daughter of Smoke and Bone - Laini Taylor (4 stars)
3. 11/22/63 - Stephen King (5 stars)
4. A Drink Before the War - Dennis Lehane (4 stars)
5. Ender's Game - Orson Scott Card (4 stars)
6. Cannery Row - John Steinbeck (4.5 stars)

February
7. The Fellowship of the Ring - J.R.R. Tolkien (5 stars)
8. The Old Man and the Sea - Ernest Hemingway (audiobook) (4 stars)
9. The Woman in Black - Susan Hill (4.5 stars)
10. City of Bones - Michael Connelly (4 stars)
11. Behind the Beautiful Forevers - Katherine Boo (4.5 stars)
12. Mockingbird - Kathryn Erskine (5 stars)
13. The Wayward Bus - John Steinbeck (4 stars)
14. Pronto - Elmore Leonard (4 stars)
15. The Snow Child - Eowyn Ivey (4 stars)
16. Riding the Rap - Elmore Leonard (3.5 stars)
17. The Two Towers - J. R. R. Tolkien (5 stars)
18. Once There was a War - John Steinbeck (4.5 stars)
19. The Coroner's Lunch - Colin Cotterill (4 stars)
20. Below Stairs - Margaret Powell (3.5 stars)
21. 84, Charing Cross Road - Helene Hanff (5 stars)

March
22. Blood Red Road - Moira Young (4 stars)
23. The Eyre Affair - Jasper Fforde (3.5 stars)
24. Thirty-Three Teeth - Colin Cotterill (4 stars)
25. King Soloman's Mines - Henry Rider Haggard (4 stars)
26. Still Life - Louise Penny (4 stars)
27. By the Iowa Sea - Joe Blair (4 stars)
28. A Share in Death - Deborah Crombie (3.5 stars)
29. A Severed Head - Iris Murdoch (4 stars)
30. The Return of the King - J. R. R. Tolkien (5 stars)
31. The Winter of Our Discontent - John Steinbeck (4 stars)
32. Don't Look Back - Karin Fossum (3.5 stars)
33. I Capture the Castle - Dodie Smith (4.25 stars)
34. Disco for the Departed - Colin Cotterill (3.5 stars)

April
35. The Moon is Down - John Steinbeck (4 stars)
36. The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie - Alan Bradley (audiobook) (4 stars)
37. Things Fall Apart - Chinua Achebe (4.5 stars)
38. The Wolves of Willoughby Chase - Joan Aiken (4 stars)
39. Blacklands - Belinda Bauer (4 stars)
40. Chess Story - Stefan Zweig (4.5 stars)
41. Sea of Poppies - Amitav Ghosh (4.5 stars)
42. Julie of the Wolves - Jean Craighead George (3.5 stars)
43. All Shall Be Well - Deborah Crombie (4 stars)
44. The Fault in Our Stars - John Green (4.5 stars)
45. Rules - Cynthia Lord (4 stars)
46. Darkness, Take My Hand - Dennis Lehane (4 stars)
47. The Shape of Water - Andrea Camilleri (4 stars)
48. Cinder - Melissa Meyer (4 stars)
49. Binocular Vision - Edith Pearlman (4.5 stars)
50. The Wrestling Match - Buchi Emecheta (2.5 stars)

May
51. The Redeemer - Jo Nesbo (4.5 stars)
52. Casino Royale - Ian Fleming (3.5 stars)
53. If Death Ever Slept - Rex Stout (4 stars)
54. Persuasion - Jane Austen (4.5 stars)
55. Lost Light - Michael Connelly (4 stars)
56. The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson (4.5 stars)

June
57. In the Heat of the Night by John Ball (4 stars)
58. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck (4.5 stars)
59. The Time Machine by H. G. Wells (4 stars)
60. Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury (5 stars)
61. Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai Sijie (4 stars)
62. Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel (4.5 stars)
63. Anarchy and Old Dogs by Colin Cotterill (4.5 stars)
64. The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett (4 stars)
65. Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri (4.5 stars)
66. Train Dreams by Denis Johnson (4 stars)
67. The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan (4.25stars)

July
68. Farewell Summer by Ray Bradbury (4.25 stars)
69. The Cold Dish by Craig Johnson (4.5 stars)
70. Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury (4.75 stars)
71. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie (4.5 stars)
72. A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levine (4 stars)
73. Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel (4.5 stars)
74. River of Smoke by Amitav Ghosh (4.25 stars)
75. Curse of the Pogo Stick by Colin Cotterill (4 stars)
76. The Terra-Cotta Dog by Andrea Camilleri (4 stars)
77. No Longer At Ease by Chinua Achebe (4 stars)
78. Call For the Dead by John LeCarré (4 stars)
79. Parnassus on Wheels by Christopher Morley (4 stars)

August
80. The Merry Misogynist by Colin Cotterill (4 stars)
81. The Stone Cutter by Camilla Läckberg (3.5 stars)
82. Boneshaker by Cherie Priest (4 stars)
83. The Guards by Ken Bruen (4.5 stars)

September
84. Killing the Tinkers by Ken Bruen (4.25 stars)
85. Death Without Company by Craig Johnson
86. The Last Werewolf by Glen Duncan (4 stars)
87. The Devil's Hearth by Phillip DePoy (4.5 stars)
88. March Violets by Philip Kerr (4.3 stars)
89. Naked in Death by J. D. Robb (3.25 stars)
90. The Magdalen Martyrs by Ken Bruen (thinking)

Go Mamie! Go Mamie! No photo yet, huh?

Im in Mamie!
I like your saved spots, Ill return for what will no doubt be a plethora of lists?
Happy threading!

Lol, love the many many saved spots. And very cute picture. Look at those eyes! I wish I was such a looker, although I was much better looking when I was a little kid as well ;)

Hi Mamie - just catching up in time to welcome in your new thread! I feeling very proud of myself as I would have guessed photo #1 was a picture of Birdy before I saw the caption underneath :-) Sorry to hear about Biscotti's and Rae's bad day - glad to hear Biscotti has improved now. I'll be thinking of you and the family (especially Rae).

Juming in to keep track of you :)

Visitors!! WahHOO!!

Mark - Wow! You were fast if you beat the photo being posted. Way to go, Mark! By the way, was my movie guess right - was it Detour?

Megan - How did you guess that those spots would be filled up with lists?!

Jenny - Her eyes are very blue, which just happens to also be her favorite color. Could you guess that from the photo?! And who are you trying to fool - I seen pictures of you, and you are GORGEOUS! Such a beatific smile you have!

Heather - You would have guessed it was Birdy without a caption - you are GOOD! Thank you for your kind words and thoughts - today has been a much better day for them.

Hi Kath!! Where you been today? What are you up to?

Lol, I think I might have been able to figure out that one ;)

Not going to argue with you on my supposed gorgeousness - although needless to say I consider myself distinctly mediocre. However, my pony is gorgeous so she makes up for it.

I was definitely cuter as a kid though!

BTW another great pic up there :) what a cutie :)

Distinctly mediocre? Oh dear, your mirror is not working! And your pony is ALSO gorgeous.

Thanks, Kath - can't believe my baby is gonna be fourteen! YIKES!!

Wow, I love the Birdy photo! What great blue eyes! Yes, Detour is correct. No guess on the actors? I agree it's tough.

I know the lady is Ann Savage. Um...and that guy who was in Flying Tigers with John Wayne? I don't know his name. You've stumped me!

Way behind! Great picture of Birdy!! So your baby is going to be 14! Wow! ( but my baby is 22!) . It's always a shock!

Yes, it's Ann Savage and the actor is Tom Neal. He was not very well known and I don't think he was in "Flying Tigers". You are still the Queen of Film Noir.

Cute picture!

Hi, Mamie! Love the photo of Birdy at age 5!

Great Birdy photo, Mamie! I'm sure she's making life interesting at age 14. :-)

What a dear picture of Birdy.

Mamie quickly signing in for number 15. Love the fact that the ribbons in Birdy's hair complement the cake she is about to demolish!

Hey, Mamie, I was catching up the end of your last thread, and you asked about Philip DePoy's other series. I've read and enjoyed the entire Flap Tucker series. I don't think the writing is quite as lovely as in the Fever Devilin series, but they are good, IMO. The tone is a little different. Flap can be a little flip. And they are centered in Atlanta and have a more urban feel -- though Flap does manage to get out and about in the countryside in several of them.

Deb - Thank you! You baby is just a bit older than my oldest - Rae will be 21 in March.

Mark - Tom Neal! I had no idea what his name was - I was going to go with what's his face. The Queen of Film Noir?! What a lovely title!!

Thanks, Rachel!

Hi Terri! And thanks! Also, I really appreciate your getting back to me about the other DePoy series. I was hoping that you had checked it out already. Guessing I will add that one to my WL. Two series set in Georgia - just as I am also about to be!

Thank you, Joe! And she does indeed make life very interesting - she is an old soul in a young body.

Lucy - Thank you!

Paul - And we didn't even dress her to match the cake!! Her favorite color is was and is blue, so not so surprising that blue should be found both on Birdy and on her birthday cake. She got a bike for her big present that year - I'll give you one guess what color it was!

Good morning Mamie... Packed day again or are things winding down to waiting?
Do you have your spoon?

Morning Kath! Today is not horrible, but a lot on the to do list - filing change of address with the post office, calling the utilities and giving them an end date, scheduling the van for maintenance...things like that. Boring, not fun things that have to be taken care of. Also laundry because I did not do it yesterday, and some paperwork to organize. Tomorrow is when things will get really crazy and stay that way until we are in possession of the new house. Taking extra deep breaths today in preparation. Craig arrives on the scene tomorrow night, so that will be fun.

Okay, I'm thinking I should get the spoon question. I'll get my coffee and ponder it.

Morning Mamie- Try to squeeze in some down-time today, it sounds like you are going to NEED it. Have a good one.

Eek. Good luck with the beginning of the crazy. I'm assuming we won't be hearing much from you until you're happily settled in your new home. I really really hope everything goes well, and we expect to see lots of pictures of your new abode :)

At least Craig will be around to help ease the madness! Or will he simply create more ;)

Mark - Morning! We will try to squeeze in a bit of down-time each day in order not to be swept away by the craziness of our last ten days here. Fasten your seat belts, kids; it's going to be a bumpy ride!! But a fun one!!

Jenny - Thank you. We will take all the good luck that we can get! I think I will still try to check in each day until we hit the road just because LT is fun and relaxing for me - a nice breath of fresh air, so to speak. We will take loads of photos once we are there - and probably some here of the moving out process.

About Craig...probably a bit of both!

I hope you don't mind my posting a picture of Jocelyn when she was a baby, about 5 years ago. But the raised eyebrow discussion reminded me of this picture taken when she was learning to crawl. It is her Father's favorite picture of her.......... so far, any ways.

Hope your day is peaceful and you are able to save up some energy for the next few hectic whirlwind days-

Karen - That picture is cracking me up!! Great, even babies can do it, but not me!!!

Laundry is going, address change filed with USPS, all utilities, phone and internet have stop dates. Whew! That took longer than I thought, and I spent most of my time on hold! 3 dentist appointments and a retainer check appointment at the orthodontist are confirmed for tomorrow, and I just realized that we need to get more dog food very soon...um...like now.

Hi Mamie, I love that picture that Karen posted. Now that baby looks to be full of character! I can't raise my eyebrow either, which always drove me crazy because my sister could. In fact, she still likes to give me that disapproving, one eyebrow raised look every now and again.

I have been lost in a good book for most of today. Have you read Doc by Mary Doria Russell? It's fantastic.

Hi Judy! I loved that picture, too! And company - happy to know I am in such good company with the eyebrow thing!

I have not read Doc, but it is on my WL - I think I added it after Ellen's review. I will be eagerly awaiting your review!

You will like Doc. MDR has never written a bad book. She simply can't.

Sounds like I need to make sure it gets to the TBR! ANd it was Ellen's review that tipped me - I checked.

You will be happy to know that I figured out the spoon thing!! How did your day turn out?

#35 : Haha.. Maggie, No fair ... like Mamie sez ... even babies can do it but I can't? This must be in the 'Can you roll your tongue' category. But Jocelyn looks so adorable with that disgruntled expression on her face.

Sorry I wandered off again. Gary called. I have to tell you about Gary... my first love :) and my good friend... I am his go to gal for when he just needs an ear for a minute or to be sure he has a friend.

My day turned out fine.. a few bumps in the road, but all is well... yours look successful.. and I am ready for the ice cream!!!

Ice cream? What flavor? Can I have some brandy snaps with it, please?

Caro - Well, I CAN roll my tongue - but that is a genetic thing, right?



And this is the ice cream that we want. Paul suggested it on Cee's thread - but apparently it isn't available here, so we were going to make a side trip to KL to get some of it. Want to come along?

Kath - Yes, I would love to hear all about Gary! So glad your day turned out fine - mine, too. And for dinner- carryout which Dan and Rae are picking up!!

yay for carry out!

Oooh....that sounds good. They used to have a sticky toffee pudding flavor but for a limited period only. Which was a shame because I really liked it. Now I like their salted caramel flavor. But do I want to come along with you guys to KL ... my bag's are packed. When are we leaving?

You said it, sister!!

Caro - Sticky toffee pudding?! That sounds oh so fabulous! How come all the really great flavors are always limited editions?? Check with Cee about departure dates as she is in charge of this adventure - and you have to bring your own spoon!

We get Bailey's ice cream over here as well. It's fabulous. Especially with extra Bailey's on top.

Bailey's fudge is also rather scrumptious.

Oh man, Jenny, that is just not right - I WANT some!!

I can raise my eyebrow and wiggle my ears.

Cha-CHING!

#51

Show off :P

I can do none of the above, except eat ice cream.

Hi Mamie- Hope your day went well. I love that baby photo! Is that a great face or what?

Megan - I can pat my head and rub my tummy at the same time. I can also read on the back of the bus while facing backwards without becoming nauseous. But sadly, I cannot raise my eyebrow or wiggle my ears...sigh...

Jenny - *grin*

Kath - I can eat ice cream!! ANd really, eating ice cream is the most rewarding!

Mark - So very sorry to hear about your Bailey. Hugs to you. My day did go well, thanks. And that baby face is too funny!!

*chucks spoon and napkins in bag* ... ready for trip ....to wherever the Baileys ice cream is sold.

Err... I can suck up ice cream through my rolled tongue.

Ok - now that IS impressive!

Hi Mamie, very cute picture of Birdy up there. So, is Birdy her actual name or is it a nickname?

Hi Ilana! So funny - I was just over at your thread! Birdy is her nickname because she rises with the sun, is always cheerful and chatters away all day long. Her actual name is Sara.

Heredity! It is all in the genes. I can lift an eye brow, just like my Great Niece Jocelyn, and I can wiggle my ears. I think I'll start teaching the Great Nephew Logan and the Great Niece Jocelyn how to do that, tomorrow. Should take a good part of the day.

Crazymamie, I'm thinking of you and yours often and sending warm, uplifting (boxes), and happy face vibes in your directions. I hope my psychic global positioning instruments are functioning correctly!

Thank you, Karen! And thanks again for sharing that priceless photo!

OK. I am off to bed (with my spoon) to read. Lights out about 11 - then over to KL for ice cream ;-)
Everyone welcome to join us - hope Paul doesn't mind.
Sweet dreams!

I haven't given up looking for it around here. I think it will just take a little more work...

Cee - Wishing you happy reading and sweet dreams! And right - we will search high and low, first person to find it hosts the big ice cream party for all our LT homies! In the meantime, I think we should still take that trip to KL to taste test the product - and to see Paul, of course!

Have you been watching the game? It's a hum-dinger! Go Bears!

>59 Crazymamie: omg, I had misread Birdy as Bridy....now I feel a little silly. But I do love the nickname. It is so sweet and cute and fun.
I always wished a had a cool nickname....but pea brain and grub was what my dad ended up calling me! I never even realised it was slightly derogatory til I grew up, as it was always said affectionately. Dad even used "Grub" when he had to fax me something at work once, and my colleagues had a field day with it! (almost as much as they did when I didnt recognise the All Blacks captain when he came up to my counter and even said his name)
OK enough embarrassing stories for now!

Are we arranging a flash mob at Paul's house? I'm sure that's what you said....
:)

Mark - Yes! My word, the Bears had a great game! Go Bears!!

Megan - LOL!! And yes, flash mob at Paul's house! Bring your own spoon, as we are then going for ice cream.

Woah! I think a tropical meet-up looks on the agenda! Knew I should have kept pictures of my pad off the threads! More than welcome but groups in excess of, well two at a time, can be accommodated in an apartment in the complex which we could get for a few days for a song. Baileys would be required comfort food as we all sit by the pool and try to figure out if we care about the latest Camilleri, Scandi or Dr. Siri sufficiently to turn to them in lieu of another G&T.

Hi Mamie. Just stopping by to say I will be thinking of you all as things get busy over the next couple of weeks. It's been a while since I had some Haagen Dazs - must look out for the Baileys flavour!

Good morning to you! So.. paperwork done, dogs all prettied up... is this another errands day?
If yes, I hope they go quickly and smoothly and you can get home for some feet up time :P
Nothing doing here just now, thank goodness.. I did my store run this morning. And I need to choose a book.. which I think might be The Art Forger? What book is getting your attention these days?If you have any attention to spare?

*waving quickly as she lurks through the threads*

#67

That sounds far too tempting. At this rate, you really will end up with visitors!!

Good Morning, Everyone! Overcast and rainy here today, but alas, I cannot simply crawl back into bed with a good book...sigh...

Paul - Right! But your secret is out now! An accommodation in the complex would be lovely, and Baileys ice cream enjoyed poolside sounds simply divine. And G&T - that does it - you've sold me now!!

Heather - So wonderful to see you here! And thank you for your warm thoughts. I think you will have better luck finding the Baileys flavor on your side of the pond, so if you are able to locate it, please enjoy a few bites for me! Also, please pet that lovely kitty of your for me.

Kath - Yep, more errands today and also appointments. Abby goes back to the orthodontist for a retainer check, and the other three go to the dentist for their regular six month check and cleaning. Speaking of cleaning, I am planning to clean out both the kitchen and the garage refrigerators today - I am guessing there is some scary stuff in there pushed towards the back.

On the reading front, I am back to my usual shenanigans of reading multiple books at one time. So, currently I am working on IQ84 (my first Murakami and very good so far), The Casual Vacancy (J. K. Rowling's new book which I am liking so far), and I Am Legend (which is kind of slow and plodding, but interesting). I also have several books on the back burner which I have been reading for a bit, but which I have set aside until after the move - unless I change my mind, which is entirely possible!

*waves back at Karen*

Jenny - I think you are so right!!

#72 Sounds like some good reading Mamie. I can't believe you're managing to read three books and get everything ready to move house at the same time!

Thanks, Heather. I think if I weren't reading, I would be going a bit bonkers because I would just be thinking all the time about what needs to be done and trying to figure out what I was forgetting to do. I need the escape that reading offers, and I like to read more than one book at a time because I like to pick up what I am in the mood for, which varies from day to day.

Morning Mamie! You and your shenanigans! What are we going to do with you? We are not getting your weather today. It's sunny and 70.

That's right, Mark - shenanigans! You never know what I will get up to if someone is not keeping an eye on me!! It's rainy and 58 here right now, so definitely not sunny and 70!

Back from the dentist and orthodontist - poor Rae had two very small cavities, but luckily they were able to fill them while she was there. SO now the teeth are all good for the next six months. WahHOO!! Now we are headed off to Best Buy to pick out my new washer and dryer for the Georgia house since I have to leave mine here. The good news is that this time around I can get the pedestals for them which will be so great for my poor back - we couldn't get them before because our washer and dryer are in the kitchen here, and there is a countertop that runs over the tops of them. Anyway, I can order them here and pick them up down there, so that will be one more thing taken care of.

Shenanigans are the best. I'd have more except I always seem to end up in A&E if I'm let out without proper supervision ;)

I'm impressed with the many brilliant human tricks described up above, Mamie. Glad you're getting a new washer and dryer that'll be at the right height for you this time.

When's the last time the Bears looked great in a Monday night game? I can't even remember. That was fun, on both sides of the ball.

Jenny - Agreed that shenanigans are the best. And oh dear about the A&E - let me know if you need me to keep an eye on you!

Joe - LOL! The washer and dryer will be the perfect height - and also my favorite color. I bought the red ones!!
And the Bears looked oh so fabulous - what a great game for them!!

Hooray for a new RED washer and dryer. And, like magic, they'll be waiting for you in Georgia. I love Best Buy! One less thing for you to do when you arrive in Pecan Paradise!

Well, count me in for the KL trip. I'm eager to try the Bailey's ice cream, but I'm more excited about checking out Paul's library!

Best of luck to you, Mamie, as you take care of innumerable last minute things in the next few days. We'll all breathe a big sigh of relief when you arrive in Albany. Lewis Grizzard wrote a humorous book titled: If I Ever Get Back to Georgia, I'm Gonna Nail My Feet to the Ground. I hope you like living there as much as he did.

September Stats

Books read:
84. Killing the Tinkers by Ken Bruen (4.25 stars)
85. Death Without Company by Craig Johnson (4.5 stars)
86. The Last Werewolf by Glen Duncan (4 stars)
87. The Devil's Hearth by Phillip DePoy (4.5 stars)
88. March Violets by Philip Kerr (4.3 stars)
89. Naked in Death by J. D. Robb (3.25 stars)
90. The Magdalen Martyrs by Ken Bruen (thinking- probably 4.3 stars)

Total of 7 books read
*3 new to me authors
*6 male/1 female
*all fiction/ all part of a series
*all were read on my Kindle, although I started The Last Werewolf as an audiobook (very good but I had to return it to the library)

Killing of the Tinkers and The Magdalen Martyrs were books two and three in the Jack Taylor series by Ken Bruen. These books are gritty and dark. Jack Taylor is an ex Guarda (the Irish police) who now works as a private detective. He is carrying around a lot of excess baggage - a difficult mother that he hates, a serious addiction to alcohol and now cocaine, self-destructive tendencies, and anger management issues. He is a walking time bomb that can explode at any minute, injuring himself and anyone near him, friends and enemies alike. And yet there is something about Jack that is admirable; his heart is in the right place even if he seems to have very little control over it. He is haunted and wounded and broken, and yet he stands ready to fight. In fact, he insists on it! What intrigues me, I think, is that his character is so complicated - he has a deep love and appreciation for literature, he is clever and yet refuses to take the time to make good decisions. He learns from his mistakes and yet refuses to apply what he has learned. His biggest asset is that he somehow manages to just keep going. His biggest weakness is that he rushes head first into almost every situation. The mystery in these books is not the focus, rather it is imbedded into a story full of crisp, snappy dialogue, flawed characters, and wonderful quotes and reminiscences from various literature sources. Certainly not for everybody, but for me a captivating experience - I will read on even though I know Jack will just screw up everything all over again.

"Try smoking at Dublin Airport or at any airport. Good luck. Talk about segregation. Small pockets of isolation where the shamed smokers congregate. Like lepers of the modern wasteland. You'd nod guiltily at each other, crank the lighter and suck the poison in. You'd need your head examined to bring drugs through Dublin Airpot. These guys are lethal. Boy, do they see you coming. Get you and you are going down. I chanced it."

"My mother is a walking b*tch, then and now. I hadn't heard light nor hair of her in over a year. Maybe she was dead. She adored my one outstanding credential: my failure. With such a son, she could be seen to endure. The woman was born to martyrdom, but only with an audience. Pay per view: My expulsion from the guards, my drinking, my non-starter life: she couldn't have wished for more."

Hi Donna! I thought I was going to write mini-reviews of each of the books I read last month, and just look what happened! YIKES! Okay, so I guess I am a fan of the Jack Taylor books.

Thank you so much for your very lovely and charming message! Yes, the washer and dryer will be waiting for me in Georgia, and I am completely head over heels with the red color - so sassy!

Wouldn't it be so great to explore Paul's library - he could just show us in and then leave us to drool and goggle over his lovely tomes. Then he could come back and patiently remove the stacks of books from our sticky fingers, calmly explaining that it was his PERSONAL library, not THE library! And then we could all have ice cream beside that pool worthy of a movie set while trying to talk him into "loaning" us just a few of his lesser specimens...sigh...

I will tuck the luck you are sending me into my heart, and store it there for safe keeping - what a great gift you and so many others here have given me! I feel as if my journey has been blessed! I will look up that book that you mentioned, but I can tell you right now that I will absolutely LOVE living in Georgia because that is where Craig and the kids will be. I will take the happiness that I have with me, and once I get down there, I will remember to be vigilant in seeking out and grasping every bit of it that I can find.

I am seriously touched by your sweet post - thank you, Donna.

Mamie and Donna - you know you would be welcome anytime! If books strewn everywhere constitutes a library it would be open of course too.

Excellent! Thank you so much, Paul! (*don't panic, I don't even have a passport)

I was interrupted by Craig's arrival home, so I will continue my mini-reviews tomorrow. I also have a very funny story to share. See you in the morning!

No passport! Cee is quite good at expediting those!

Still, the mom in me wants to fix it, and I simply cannot

I know that feeling and you've spoken to me about it on my thread. I was discussing it with a psychotherapist friend who said that children who have a strong, supportive adult in their lives (whether mum, dad, teacher or other) not only cope with childhood rocky patches more smoothly but tend to grow into adults better equpped to deal with life in general.

I think we do more than we know :-)

86: Made me laugh and I haven't even heard the funny story yet!

Hi Mamie - I can't believe I haven't posted until message 88. I'm sure I meant to say something about that super-cute photo of Birdy at the top of the thread. It's just a week to go, isn't it? Your new white - um, red - goods sound lovely. I saw a picture somewhere of the pedestals, which I don't think are that popular here because most washing machines are in the kitchen, and have the counter running over them like yours. Of course, everyone I know lives in tiny spaces apart from one friend who has a utility room, but I think even hers are under a counter in there. I still miss the top-loaders that are so popular in New Zealand.

Hi Mamie! Bailey's and Ice Cream! Two of my favorite treats rolled into one?! I'll check my local Giant Eagle etc to track it down.
Looking forward to your funny story :)

Good morning! I have had a busy morning... trying to write a cover letter... GAH!
Selling myself is not one of my strengths.

So Craig is home for the duration? Yay! I have nothing to say.. preoccupied today :P But
I do hope that having you home gives you a bit of relief from carrying the whole move on your shoulders.. I have been there and it isn't fun.. despite your good humor and efficient approach.

Hope your day is a good one :) I wil lbe back later to see whats happening in your world :)

Morning Mamie! What shenanigans (what a great word!) are you getting up to today? It looks like we are getting some of your damp & cloudy weather this morning and you know what? I could care less!

I LOVED your thoughts on Jack Taylor! Spot on. So far, you've been the only LTer who is completely in the same camp as me, on this damaged soul.
"He is haunted and wounded and broken, and yet he stands ready to fight." Perfect!
Go Mamie! Go Mamie!

Susan -- I smiled when you said you miss top-loading washers. Used to be that was all you could get here. I moved to Europe and missed them, then got used to the front loaders and moved back to the U. S. and missed those. Finally when we moved to our current place three years ago I got front-loaders again---oh how I do love them!!

Great review of the Jack Taylor books, Mamie! I read the first two, and you're right on the money as far as I'm concerned, too.

Post them, and I will thumb. (That's a quote from the movie "Field of Books").

LOL, Joe!! Excellent!

Afternoon y'all! I am late to my own thread. *hangs head* We had errands to run and had to return Craig's rental car that he drove from the airport in Indy last night, but I am home for just a bit - Birdy and I have hair appointments at four. I wanted to just check in and share my funny story before I have to leave again. SO, here it goes:

Last night Craig got home sometime between 10 and 10:30pm. The rest of us were already in our jammies, and we all trudged upstairs to sit on the big bed and catch up. We had talked for quite a bit, and were just getting ready for everyone to head to bed when the doorbell rang. Wow! It was midnight, and someone was at the front door! Craig was headed down to see who it was, and I said to be careful and check who was out there before opening the door. It was the police! Seems Craig had accidentally left his parking lights on in the rental car. The officer said he saw the lights on and pulled in to check it out. He had heat scanned the car and it was still hot. He checked out the plates on the car and noticed that it had a Louisiana license plate. He saw the sale pending sign and the mover's sign in the yard. Craig explained that he had just gotten in from the airport, and that the car was a rental. The officer asked him what he was doing at the property. Craig explained that he owned the property. The officer asked for proof of identity and proof that he lived at the property!! He insisted on stepping inside to wait while Craig got his driver's license. Only Craig could practically get arrested in his own home because he drove a rental car!!! Now I feel so safe - there will be no shenanigans in Mamieland!! Good thing Craig still had his Indiana driver's license, or I might have had to bail him out -( just kidding, I would have had to come down and show my license and verify Craig's identity),but isn't that the wackiest story?!

Back later to respond individually to each of you wonderful visitors, but right now I am off to the hair salon.

Hi Mamie, hope your day is going well. I guess you are in midst of moving chaos, as it's getting really close now. I need to get to the next Jack Taylor book which, for me would be The Killing of the Tinkers.

ETA: That is a great story, Mamie! I guess it's a good thing that the police are keeping such a close watch!

Yea for the diligence of the police!!!!

> you do have fun at your house! Never a dull moment :)

That is funny, Mamie, but good on the police for checking. There have been some awful cases here where people have moved out of their houses and squatters have moved in (at least until it became a criminal offence a couple of weeks ago) - and the people had only gone on holiday, or in a couple of cases into hospital to have babies. I can imagine how your husband felt, though - I had to prove once that I was *not* the previous owner of my flat, who had traffic fines outstanding. I had visions of being carted off in my jammies until I found my passport, and all the time the policeman was standing over me and I felt like a criminal!

musta been a slow night in Muncie last night

Clearly they suspected what we already knew..........that you two are suspicious characters ;)

haha that's awesome! Poor Craig.

*looking forward to tomorrows story *

Great story, Mamie .. LOL ....it would have been funny if the police tried to arrest Craig only to have you coming down to rescue your man.. ok, funny for the story, but probably wouldn't be so funny for Craig. Then again, I wonder though, if Craig didn't have proof of address and ID on him what the police would have demanded from you to proof his identity and residency.

*hopes Kath is sharing her popcorn as I wait for tomorrow's story too...I have cupcakes*

Paul - Guess I need to get in touch with Cee then!! I do remember her helping you work on getting yours! LOL!

Dee - Thank you for sharing that. It does make me feel better - and so comforting to know that I am not alone in feeling sometimes inadequate to the task set before me. Your presence on my thread was a boost to me - thanks so much for stopping by. I know you are very busy, so please know that I am touched that you took the time to post your thoughts.

Susan - Glad you liked the photo of Birdy. And right - I started this thread on Sunday, so it has been four days ago. So interesting to hear that most laundry is in the kitchen over there because here it is very unusual. Our front loaders are a hot commodity in Indiana where they are just becoming more popular in private homes - I'd say in the last ten years, before that it was very unusual to have front load machines. That's what you went to the laundromat for - to use the front load machines that could handle the heavy or very large loads like a king size duvet. The front loaders are great for us since we are a family of six - otherwise I would spend a lot more time doing the laundry!

Lynda - Hope you have better luck tracking down that ice cream than I have. I WANT it, but I cannot locate it!!

Kath - Did you get the cover letter done? Sometimes I think it is harder to say nice things about ourselves than about others - we are programmed not to brag, so that makes sense. And yes, Craig is home for the duration!! WahHOO!! The day was good - busy, but very good.

Mark - It was a beautiful Fall day here. Sun was out - got up to about 61. Thank you so much for your compliments and enthusiasm regarding my Jack Taylor analysis!! Made my day!

Reba - I LOVE front load machines - you can really load them up, and everything gets so clean. Also no agitator which I like. And slow night?That's what we thought! But it was nice to know that someone was paying attention.

Joe - Thank you! I'm not sure where to post the review since I kind of combined my thoughts on the two books - any ideas? LOVE your quote!

Mark - *grin*

Judy - The day was crazy busy but also very productive. I hope you do find time to get back to Jack - I am really liking those books! ANd it did make me feel good to know that the police were keeping an eye on the property. He was worried that someone had broken in.

Linda - Yes! Yea for the diligence of the police - I am so thankful for everyone that serves in that capacity. I am sure it is often a thankless job. Hugs to you, dear one, hoping today was a good day.

Jenny - So very true!!!

Chelle - Craig was a bit taken aback, but he also thought it was funny!

How are all those jobs going?! I checked out your website, and it looks awesome. And your cakes!! Very impressive!

Kath - I actually have a good one for tomorrow - you'll like it! So bring your snacks and come back for an update that promises to leave you laughing.

Caro - I think if Craig had had a Georgia driver's license, then the officer would have asked to see me. My driver's license would prove that I actually live here, and then I could vouch for Craig. As the homeowner, I have the right to anyone on my home that I want - even seedy characters like Craig! Luckily I didn't have to go downstairs because I was in my jammies, and I had taken a shower earlier and just let my hair air dry - not scary, but not a calming effect either!

Tune in tomorrow for another episode of "These are the moving days of Mamie's life"!

Hey Mamie, just checking in as I make my way around the threads! I love the picture of Birdy at the top of the thread. Time sure doesn't slow down for any of us! :)
How is the move stuff going??

Okay, I am losing my mind because I just realized that I somehow missed some people that had posted - edited my posts to make sure everyone got a response. If I missed you, please speak up because that was not my intention.

Hey Mamie, that's quite the story about Craig and the police, yikes! Dealing with the police is never much fun, and while I'm grateful they're keeping us safe, (and my neighborhood quiet whenever I call them to keep the neighbours' parties down in the wee hours) I must say I've always found police in the USA to be especially intimidating!

Wow, almost arrested in your own house for having a rental car! Sounds like a scene from a second rate comedy. I guess it's good that the police were so observant Mamie, but also slightly annoying. Good luck with the final chores that a big move requires.

>91 msf59: now that is what I call on-the-ball policing~!

Mamie, don't lose your mind. You need it. And if you miss responding to some of us, individually and every time, I think you will be forgiven. I believe I can guess most of us completely understand how preoccupied your mind is while your are managing this event! Take it easy on yourself and don't worry about hurting feelings here. This is a community of great acceptance and support. So, just remember a couple of good cliches: First Things First, Easy Does It, and Let Go and Let God (do it).

And oh, make lists. Plenty of lists. They are great helpers.

Hi Mamie -
We all understand that right now your focus is necessarily your family, your pets, and your new home.
Take a break. We can wait... and we will be right here.

Try to keep Craig out of jail and hold on to whatever sanity you can ;-)

Morning Mamie- I loved the Craig/police story. They may have been a little more gung-ho than necessary, but at least they are attentive.
Good luck in MamieLand today!

Impossible to imagine you not being up to any task or situation.. you are the most even keeled and capable and cheerful woman I have met in.. maybe ever.

Hope you got a little sleep after all....and hope today is fabulous and smooth... This is so exciting!

Just worked my way through > 300 posts I missed in a week. Your news re. Biscotti brought tears to my eyes. It is so sad when our pets are ageing and getting ill and we can't help them at all.
Our beloved cocker spaniel had a stroke during a holiday in Tuscany and all we wanted to do was to get her back home so she could die there. In the end she stayed with us for another couple of months, barely able to walk and wearing nappies, but still fully conscious and as loving as ever.

I hope you'll have many more weeks with Biscotti and that she'll get through the move well.

Oh yes - and all the best for the move!!!

Mamie,
I love the story (and I love that Kath brought popcorn).
Sending you HUGE HUGS as you spend time with Biscotti.
Good luck with the move.

OMG you are the most capable woman I know. You'll breeze through this move with a smile on your face and before you know it be sipping mint julips under the pe-can trees. (Meanwhile, we'll all be sending you mojo.)

Or we could send her mojitos instead. Personally, the way this week is going, I'd rather have the drink than the mojo!

Great story, Mamie. All my best wishes your way for moving day and week.....

Okay, so here is you story for today:

Last night we were working on cleaning up the garage a bit - the movers come on Friday (um...yes...that would be TOMORROW). We wanted to go through the rest of the things in there now that Craig is home so that if there is anything left to unhave, then we can unhave it before Friday. SO, we set up tables to pile our junk valuable stuff on. We also wanted to get the luggage, air mattresses, sleeping bags, etc. out of the attic so we could pack those to go with us since we get possession of the house on Friday morning, but our stuff doesn't arrive until Saturday. The unhaving was going well, but we couldn't seem to locate the camping gear that we were looking for...then Craig remembers. HE PACKED IT IN THE POD!! Are we so organized or what?! The kids and I were laughing our heads off because Craig kept saying, "I'm trying to remember WHY I packed it in the POD."

One of those good ol' 'well, it seemed like a good idea at the time!' moments :)

Valerie - Missed your post last night. Glad that you like the picture of Birdy! The moving is going pretty well - just a few bumps in the road, and really, what would an adventure be without the bumps? Those seem to always make the funniest stories later!

Ilana - I have never found the police to be intimidating, but then I haven't had many dealings with them either. What is it about American police that bothers you - just their demeanor?

Bonnie - We just thought it was funny! Craig having to show his ID to prove he has the right to be in his own house cracks me up for some reason. I know, I'm a bit demented, huh? The final chores seem to be going reasonably smoothly - probably all the luck you guys are sending me!! So, thanks for that.

Megan - *grin*

Karen - I will TRY not to lose my mind - but no promises! I do know that all of you would forgive me if I accidentally left you out when responding, still I would like for that not to happen. The funny thing was we had gotten to the end of the day and decided to luxuriate in some down time before hitting the hay - Craig was reading, and I decided I would catch up on my thread on LT. I was so proud of myself for getting the posting done before my laptop died, and just starting to pat myself on the back about it when I thought - didn't I see messages from Mark and Joe? ANd I didn't remember responding to those. SO, I checked and sure enough I had skipped some posts when responding but in such bizarre fashion that I still don't know how I managed to skip the ones that I did.

BUT, I will take your advice which was so thoughtfully provided. And YES, lists! I am a great lover of lists - although I am much better at making them than following them!

Cee - You are just so sweet! Thank you, darling. It's so nice to know that someone is holding the fort down! I will do my best to keep Craig out of jail and hold onto my sanity!

Mark - Glad you liked the story! And thanks for the luck - I'm thinking I have use for it!

Kath - Well thank you! What wonderful words! I did manage to grab a bit of sleep - the brain just does not want to turn off at night. I often have this problem, so it is not just the move. Today the rest of the gang is getting haircuts and that is it except for working on stuff around here - no other appointments, so that is good.

And thanks for your good wishes - this IS exciting, isn't it?!

Nathalie! How kind you are to work your way through all of those posts! And yes, we are dealing as best we can with Biscotti's failing health - heartbreaking, but we really try to stay focused on the good things like the time that we have to say goodbye. She is hanging in there and her eyes are so very expressive so I just feel I will know when she has had enough. I am sorry to hear about your beloved cocker spaniel - sounds like she was well loved and treasured. Thank you so much for sharing and also for your kind thoughts and wishes. They are so appreciated!

Ellen! Glad you liked the story! I loved that Kath brought popcorn, too!! Thank you for the hugs - I have already delivered a very gentle one to Biscotti for you. She is really such a lovely little dog and remains sweet and loving even though I know she is not feeling her best. I am missing the attitude she usually treats us to - yesterday I took the lid off the cookie jar that I use to hold dog treats, and all the dogs came running because they know that sound. Usually Biscotti would walk regally to the front of the line to be served first, as is her due as head Diva, but yesterday she just stood at the back with her tail wagging. You will be glad to hear that she still got served first.

Thanks so much for stopping by - I know that you are crazy busy right now. I appreciate the visit.

Me, too. I make lists so that I can lose them. But they still help focus my mind for a split second or two.

Reba - I LOVE how you think!! I have never had a mint julep in my life, but it does seem like the ONLY thing to drink to celebrate our move to the South! Thank you for your kind words and for the mojo - both are so welcome.

Jenny - Mojitos!! YES!! I am seeing my own drink - Mamie's Mojo Mojito. We could drink them on the back deck while the movers are packing up everything. What time can you be here?!

And in post 122 - EXACTLY!

Lucy - Thank you so much!

As soon as possible!! Give me a minute to get changed, and I'll be right there ;)

Karen - So true! Just making the list helps to anchor the thought.

Jenny - Excellent - I can't wait to see you!!

>107 jolerie: Post the Jack Taylor review on both book pages? It'd be good for someone curious about either to see.

Good luck with the move! Wow, almost there. You guys seemed to have done a great job while avoiding the crankies. Love the Craig/POD story.

Ok Joe, will do. And thanks for the good luck - just six more days until we hit the road! Thanks for the kind words - glad you liked the POD story!!

Police... I have seen too many stories about tasing 6 yr olds ( srsly?) and old ladies... and men carrying newborn babies ( their own ) out of hospitals... much loss of respect. /our locals? We tried for 2 years to get ours to intervene when we had a drug ( not weed ) seller on the street. So many cars stopping, nearby homes vandalized and other things.. Locals would not respond. WEnt to state. They told locals they had to act. And they did. One of the locals went up to him, and was seen and heard by a neighbor.. telling the kid that they were coming in to inspect his home, and if they find anything he is in trouble. They came a week later, and found ... nothing. Of course. Almost exactly the same scenario in another part of town... the woman in charge of the closed community area went to a crime watch meeting. She was told by the chief .. she calls too often, they are tired of responding and not getting anywhere. Well, they wait to respond.. or just do not.. and she had been told by the state police to call locals immediately... so.. to say I have an extreme lack of respect for all but a few ( whom I have yet to meet) would be summing it up. The current crop of locals are much more personable.. when they are in the mood. One will say NO MATTER why or when you call.. "What do you want me to do ". The mayor and others on the force know.. it just continues to be ignored, after many years.. Pittsburgh police? The stories, well .. they can do anything and its A okay. No one is ever held accountable...too many stories and some of them too ugly to share, but .. there ya go. We are on our own... Some of the police rival the criminals. Oh and locally.. one cop wass arrested for child porn on his work and home computer, and one for helping to hunt down the BF of a friends ex wife.. and the ex husband killed the BF. At least those two are gone.

wow.. sorry...

anyway..

Glad the unhaving is going well.. it is so freeing... Things are moving so fast! WOOT!

Wow, Kath! I think maybe we have a better police force here? Of course, Yorktown is really SMALL.

Drinks on the deck with Jenny and I? Want the Mamie Mojo Mohito or G&T?

No comment on anyone's indicidual experiences of the police, except to say that personally I have found individual police to be extremely nice and helpful, and I wouldn't want to be without them.

It is far too easy to simply focus on the bad of a situation and let the actions of a few drag down the good name of many. They are fallible. All people are. They make mistakes, and some of them are not good. But unlike the general day to day person, their mistakes cost lives. I couldn't do a job with that amount of pressure. How many of us make mistakes, and brush them off, because they haven't changed someone else's lives.

Nothing is perfect, but I embrace what there is there. I don't want to live in a society where there is no police force at all. Most do the best they can. Isn't that all we can ask?

OK - Kath and Jenny - I think you both make good points. I think the bottom line is that we need the police - thank goodness we have individuals that are willing to do this job. I know that I simply could not. But, like in any job, some individuals do a better job than others. Every uniform in every walk of life is only as good as the individual wearing it.

Now, an update on the Great Unhaving - here's what we managed to unhave today:

2 bikes
an armoir
bedside nightstand
tv
some baskets
California closet inserts
skillet
a TON of odds and ends

And the movers will be here tomorrow to pack up the garage and the pole barn! Seems unbelievable that the adventure is almost upon us!

I agree that we need polie, but I also believe that for them to never suffer consequences or have accountability for things that are clearly wrong... is going to lead to trouble in the end. They are an entity ( with weapons) that largely oversees themselves. Is that a good thing?

Well done on the unhaving..
Whats a California closet insert?

Kath - A California closet insert is a organization system that is made out of wood and sets inside your closet to make the space more usable - there are different combinations that you can choose from like drawers, pull out shelves, shoe cubbies, hampers, etc. We have them in all of the closets in our house. We had a couple of extra ones because Dan's room originally had two closets that took up a lot of space. When we gutted his room, we removed one of the closets and enlarged the other to make a better working closet space and increase the size of usable floor space. We then just moved the closet inserts to the garage and used them there, but we don't need them so decided to pass them on to someone who could. Here's a picture from their website to give you an idea:

Hi Mamie, just keeping up with you. I can't think of any specific examples to explain why I find the American officers in particular intimidating. I guess I have an issue with people in uniform seeming to take for granted that everyone is a dangerous criminal and must be treated as such, and that transcends border lines. Mind you, in the US, guns are much more ubiquitous and so law enforcers have to deal with the very real threat that anyone they're apprehending might become an attacker, which I would imagine would give them ample reason to be paranoid.

But right here at home, I've had a couple of run-ins with the police academy dropouts who police the metro transit in the past couple of years. Once because I was going to walk into the metro with Coco and was stopped by no less than a group of 5 or 6 of them who were all treating me like a potential terrorist because apparently the rules had recently changed and now required to carry a dog in a completely enclosed carrier, whereas I had him in an open bag, which until then was all that was required. I reacted very badly and ended up going home in tears. Another time because they were, for some reason checking everybody's transit tickets at the exit late in the evening, which is something they don't usually do here. That time I happened to be suffering from a really bad migraine and was carrying a great load of bags, and they were not about to give me a break even as I pleaded with them to please not make me put down everything so I could dig for the ticket, so that it left a very poor impression of the security force in general.

Congrats on the recent unhaving. Califronia closets used to be my idea of perfection. I felt sure my life would be perfect I I had them redo all my closets. Now I know perfection isn't of this world. :-b

Ilana - I think you are PERFECTLY wonderful! Your encounters with the police would have disturbed me, too. I live in such a small town that usually how I meet a police officer is because he or she is dating someone I know or because they are a parent of one of my children's friends. In my younger days, I was pulled over once or twice for speeding, but that was totally my fault and they just issued a warning. We had police come to the door twice at our old house - once late at night to let us know that we had left our garage door open, and once at 2 am because I had left an interior light on in the car. He didn't want me to wake up to a dead car because I had drained the battery. So, all of my personal experiences have been positive, but, like I said, Yorktown is very small.

Just to clarify - our closet systems weren't customized by California Closets. They used to sell units that you could purchase and assemble for yourself - we got ours from Target! Ours helped to sell our home, I think, because the buyers specifically asked for them even though we had already stated that they would stay with the home.

Hope things are going well with you - I caught up a bit on your thread today, but not all the way. I should be able to finish up tomorrow, so look for a post from me!!

Oh my I was 67 post behind and now you are moving! Good luck sweet Mamie!

Interesting policing conversations. My run ins with the police have all been very good. One was very lenient on me when I was doing something I shouldnt have been doing, and other encounters have been pleasant as well, and all involving someone else doing something they shouldnt.

One funny thing was when a friend who was a wine rep was over with 10-12 bottles of wine for us to taste. So all the bottles, most half drunk, were on the table in front of us. We had had about 3 sips each of a few of them. It was a Wednesday evening. Then a cop walks up the driveway, past the low window with all the bottles.....and us...wine glasses in hand.

I wanted to explain the situation, that we werent hard core drunkards, but he had the wrong house and was looking for someone whose name we didnt recognise. He still checked our IDs and wrote our names down etc. But it was so funny to be busted with so much wine at the table!

I can see why they would help to sell the house.. they look fabulous!

Okay.. so the movers come today? It seems that happened so fast!!! How wonderful for you!
May things go smoothly and may EVERYONE maintain their composure and humor :)

Morning Roberta - Not moving quite yet. We leave next Wednesday, but the packers from the moving company arrive today to box up the things in the pole barn and the garage. It figures - it's raining! Thanks so much for the luck!!

Morning Megan - You made me laugh - LOVE that story!!

Kath - They are quite fabulous - helps you to utilize all of the space more efficiently. The packers come today to pack up the pole barn and garage. Then on Monday they will be back to pack up the house. Then on Tuesday and Wednesday they come back to load everything onto the moving trucks. We have to be out Wednesday night by 6 pm, so we will head out then and arrive in Georgia on Thursday night. I will maintain my humor, but I cannot guarantee my composure!! ANd yes, smooth would be good!

This week will go by very quickly! I am hoping all your belongings are packed with as much care as you would give them and no damages occur! I also hope you are carrying on with the great spirit and cheer you've shown so far. Will you have some reading time?

Hi Karen! I know you are right and the time will fly by. I have packed all of the books and glassware my self just to be safe! So far we are doing very well in the spirit and cheer department - everyone is so excited about the move and ready to go. The main thing is that people keep stopping by for one last visit, and that makes it hard to get things done without being rude. Of course it also makes it easy to give more stuff away - um...while you're here, would you be interested in...

I will MAKE time for reading. And for LT. Priorities, you know!!

Morning Mamie- Good luck today with the packing & unhaving. Sounds like a whirlwind in MamieLand! Hope you can bookhorn a little reading in. How far into 1Q84 are you? I'm still poking along in chapter 7.

Glad to hear that things are so positive in your neck of the woods. Rather you than me: I hate moving and decorating etc, but you sound like it's all under control. Hopefully it's still that way as you pull up at your new house after so many hours on the road!

We'll be thinking about you today. Hope it all goes smoothly

Thinking of you and the move today, Mamie!
I hope you are having a productive Friday, and a possibly restful weekend amidst all the busyness. :)

Ahhh...an organized closet....what an idea.....

Hope all the packing gets done without too many problems!

I've been sick this week Mamie, so I had TONS of posts to catch up on...

Glad to see the packing and "unhaving" are going well! You still sound like you are in incredibly good spirits!! Hugs to you and Biscotti.

Enjoyed all the various stories on your lively thread too :)

So while the packing is happening, it seems like a good time to visit all of your most favorite places to eat one time before your move :)

Morning Everyone! The pole barn and garage are completely packed up - looks funny to see all the walls and shelving empty and just stacks of boxes sitting around. They will be back on Monday to box up the house - I am wondering if they will take all the furniture apart then so it is ready to load or if they will do that first thing Tuesday morning when they come to start loading it all on the trucks. Guess I need to ask. Today is clean up this big mess day - it looks like a hurricane went through this place so we need to get everything cleaned up and organized. Craig has to work on repairing the walls where we had big tvs mounted. Tomorrow we have company coming - should be interesting to have visitors amidst the chaos!! Then Monday is Birdy's birthday and I need to finish shopping for that and get everything wrapped.

Today is our 22nd anniversary - so HOORAY for 22 great years together! The bonus is that we still really like each other!! Seriously, I couldn't ask for a better guy - lucky, lucky me!

Awww, that is so awesome! 22 years is definitely something to brag about and you guys sound like you are still so much in love! For someone who just celebrated the 5th anniversary, that gives me so much hope and inspiration! :)

Congratulations on your 22nd! What a way to celebrate...new house, new state. What a bright future for a wonderful family!

Happy Anniversary, Mamie! The bonus is that we still really like each other!! Wonderful! You and Craig are lucky indeed. Hope it's a great weekend as you get further into the move.

Mark - Thanks for the good luck! I am on chapter 13 in IQ84, so I have made some, but not much progress. I am really liking it.

Jenny - It IS complete chaos, but that is what happens when you try to box up 22 years of making a life together. I feel really good about the amount of stuff we have managed to unhave. I also feel like things are as much under control as they can be - life is usually a bit messy, but I don't feel overwhelmed or frantic by it. Perhaps that comes with having four kids and four dogs - life is always a bit crazy and so you have to let the small stuff go and worry about the big picture. We have really been blessed through this entire process, so I can't complain one little bit. I think pulling into the driveway of the new house will so very exciting because we will have spent the night before in a hotel in Albany - we won't have to worry about amenities while we are still tired from the drive. The next morning we get the keys after we close on the house, so then we will go pick up the kids and the dogs who will be staying at the mother-in-law suite that Craig has been renting, and take them to see the house for the very first time. I feel sure that they will love it, so I can't wait to see their reactions.They will have time to explore the house and pick out their bedrooms before the chaos of the moving vans arriving, so that will be good.

Reba and Valerie - Thank you so much for keeping us in your thoughts and for your good wishes!

Rhian - Me, too!! Thanks!

Tina - So sorry that you have been sick - I hope that you are feeling better now. Thank you so much for your kind thoughts and words - and for the hugs! We are all in wonderful spirits - so happy to be all together again, and we are very excited about beginning a fresh adventure. How fun!! Glad you enjoyed the stories - I am sure there will be many more!

Kath - We have been doing just that! Last night we had Thai from our very favorite restaurant in Muncie. That will be one of the places I miss most - delicious every time!

Mamie - felt a twinge to see the pole barn is all packed up and ready to be deserted. Don't know what a pod is but since no-one else mentioned anything I guess it must be because I am out on a limb over here.
Congratulations on your anniversary and I hope this weekend is special for you as a result.

Wow! Look at the visitors I had while posting!! Hi guys!

Valerie - Thank you for those kind thoughts! I definitely wouldn't trade him for anyone else! He is the nicest, sweetest guy that I have ever met - such a huge generous heart. We started dating just after my 19th birthday - after my freshman year of college which is where we met. We dated for two years, and then he proposed, we were engaged for two years (because I wanted to finish college and live on my own for a year - just to know that I could do it), and then we got married. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.

Reba - Thanks! That's so true - new house, new state, new bright red washer and dryer!!

Joe - Thank you!

Paul - Thank you! A Pod? It's a storage container. There is a company that will deliver the Pod to your home and place it wherever you want. Then you load it up with your stuff, and you can either just let it continue to sit on the property until you are ready to move, or you have have them take it to one of their storage facilities which are temperature controlled. You pay a monthly fee for each month that you store it, but you can also access your things whenever you want. Then, when you are ready for it, they transport it to your new location and place it there - you have as long as you want to unload it, and then you call them to come pick it up when you are done.

Wow.. you are amazing... packing, moving, visiting LT, unhaving...4 kids at home, and I am the one behind this morning... sheeesh!

Good Saturday morning, from the upper left hand corner of the USA. We are having 75+ days with no rain which for us is a mixed blessing. The plant life, both domesticated and wild, are suffering. But the humans do love the sunshine.

I hope your weather is very conducive to easy and safe activities. Congratulations on your Anniversary. That is truly awesome and I'm very happy for you and your family.

Happy Anniversary, Mamie! We're just a year later than you. We married in May of '89. Congrats on getting so much done! Nice looking day this morning but COOL!

Happy Anniversary, Mamie! I hope you have a great day, even in the chaos of the unhaving :-) This time next weekend you'll be writing from your new house, all settled in! (Or maybe "settling" - for some reason I keep thinking it's Sunday).

Kath - I am amazing? THANKS!! I think that YOU are amazing, sis!

Karen - Funny you should mention that - yesterday it was cold and wet here. Poured down rain and a high of 47!! YIKES - I felt bad for the packers because of course no heat in either the pole barn or the garage. Today, of course, is beautiful - still cold (44), but the sun is out - GORGEOUS Fall day! Hope you get some rain soon.

Thanks for the congrats and for the good wishes.

Mark - Thanks! In May of '89, I was graduating from college. I got a job working at Methodist Hospital (in Indianapolis) in the chemistry lab - those were some of the funniest, laid back people that I have ever known. It was a fun job. The day is beautiful here also - but you're right; it is on the cool side. Craig is freezing - he must have adapted to that southern weather quickly!

Susan - Thanks! "This time next weekend you'll be writing from your new house, all settled in! (Or maybe "settling" - for some reason I keep thinking it's Sunday)." It's Saturday - don't you hate when it feels like a completely different day, throws things off! Next Saturday we will be directing traffic - the moving vans will be at the new house with all of our stuff and Best Buy will deliver my new washer and dryer and Craig's new big screen tv (which he is very excited about) - too bad he won't get to watch much on it Sunday since that is FOOTBALL day!!

Well, you'll definitely need to have everything connected up for Sunday, then!

So true!

Happy Anniversary, Mamie. We have been married twice as long as you and Craig and still like each other, too. I think a time apart and a big move like this is a big test in a marriage. It looks like you two have passed with flying colors! Will you do something special for your anniversary tonight or wait and celebrate in Georgia?

Happy Anniversary, Mamie (and Craig)!

Hi Mamie!
Congratulations on 22 successful years and Happy Anniversary to you and Craig!
How nice you are able to be together today :-)

Ron and I are celebrating our anniversary on Thursday. Since we will have the furkids boarded and setting out on vacation, we expect to be having some fun.
We decided when we got married that every anniversary would be set aside just for us to do something special. We were successful for many years - but the last few we weren't able to do much. So this year - we're breaking out!

Have a fun day!

Happy Anniversary!

What a way to celebrate 22 years... a whole new lofe. Fabulous!

Congratulations on the anniversary.

I hope that there is no bickering between the kids about bedrooms! Do they each get their own one?

When my aunt and her family (four kids) moved from London to their present house, then the bedroom choices were allocated depending on who had the 'worst' bedroom in the previous house. My cousin who had been in a rather dilapidated attic got first pick, and so on down the line.

When my mum was a child and they moved to their first house where everyone could have their own bedroom (again, four kids), my mum was 11 and got first pick because she was going to be at home the longest, and so on up at ages, so her oldest sister who was nineteen at the time had to make do with the last choice because she was at university anyway.

Donna - Thanks! We don't usually do anything special for our anniversary - some years we will buy something for the house that we would like to have but don't need. Often we will all go out for dinner or pick up carryout. If we weren't in the middle of a move, we would probably treat ourselves to a trip to the bookstore in Indy and coffee out and then later dinner - but we always include the kids because our marriage was the start of a life that we built together, and our kids are part of that life. I don't really care for cards or flowers - I think if he wants to say something to me, he should just say it - in his own words. I like my flowers in the ground outside.

Thanks, Katie!

Cee - Thank you - it is so great that we get to be together today! And an early Happy Anniversary to you and Ron!! Can't wait to hear what you decide to do on your big day!

Rhian - Thanks so much!

See ...? Just look at that first paragraph. You are amazing...

Kath - That's such a great way to look at it - and fun!

Jenny - Thanks! They won't bicker - if there is one that multiple people want, then coin toss. The rule in our house is: "You take what you get, and you don't throw a fit." And no, they don't each get a room - Abby and Birdy want to share, so they already know which room will be theirs because it is the largest bedroom that is not the guest bedroom. Dan and Rae will decide between the two remaining bedrooms, but Rae has already said that she does't care, that Dan can have first choice because she is happy just to get her very own room. The upstairs bedroom with the attached bathroom will be a guest suite. It will be available for use when there are no guests, but they can't store stuff in there.

Love the bedroom selection stories! When I was growing up, the oldest got first choice - each sister always chose the smallest upstairs room without a door - why? That room was too small to share - everyone else had to share a room!! When the oldest moved out, then we all moved rooms - it worked!

Chelle - Thanks for that beautiful graphic!!

Kath - You are SO sweet! Thanks!

Happy Anniversary Mamie! I like how you celebrate. Continued good luck on the moving.

Thanks, Roberta! And also thanks for the good luck!

Hope you are having a wonderful day :) ... but of course you are....

Congratulations on the anniversary, Mamie!!

Kath - I DID have a wonderful day! Must have been all the good wishes coming my way!

Thanks, Stasia!

Happy Anniversary Mamie, we just celebrated our 41st anniversary in August. There's nothing better than growing old with someone you like being around.

An anniversary. A big impending move. Lots going on for you, Mamie!

I'm thinking about Biscotti and wondering how she is doing.

Happy anniversary!! I can't believe how calm you are with all the moving stuff.... I would be nutso! :)

I am now caught up. On all my starred threads.
Given the past few weeks, this is a miracle.

Happy Sunday, Mamie.

Ellen, nice to be reminded about miracles, because yes.. they do happen! :)

I'm glad your day was good... but not surprised. You are very talented at making good days happen, and even turning bad days to less bad. It's a gift, for sure.

You are on the peak, just before the downhill part of this moving roller coaster now... all you can do is hang onto your hat and enjoy the ride :) If anyone can do that, it's you and your family, lol.

Happy Anniversary! (yesterday, that is)

Kath has said it well. Hang on and enjoy the ride. Thinking warm fuzzy thoughts of you and your family, and the sweet Biscotti.

Bonnie - Thank you! "There's nothing better than growing old with someone you like being around." I couldn't agree more!

Ellen - Definitely have our plates full right now - and tomorrow is Birdy's birthday! Biscotti has been doing very well. Right now she tends to spend most of the day sleeping on one day, and then on the next day she is more energetic. We are keeping a close eye on her, and making sure that she gets plenty of attention and loving every day.

And I am SO impressed that you are all caught up - I am so far behind. Hope you have a wonderful Sunday, too.

Tina - Thank you! And don't hold your breath - I'll probably be completely nuts before we are through!

Kath - Agreed - miracles do happen. Thanks so much for your kind words. I promise to hang onto my hat and enjoy the ride! Do you feel like you are riding along?!

Rachel - Thanks!

Karen - Kath did say it well, didn't she? I will do just what she says!! Thanks for the warm fuzzy thoughts!

I love being along for the ride with you Mamie :)

I love that you are, sis!

Colts WIN!!! They beat the Green Bay Packers 30-27. Go Colts!!

Go Colts! Go Colts! That's always sweet!

Thanks, Mark!

And Michael Vick LOST yay! muahahahaha

Belated Hapy Anniversary, Mamie. Hubby and I are going to be celebrating our 34th this month. Wow, where does the time go!

Speaking of time, you are getting mighty close to the big move south. Enjoy your last few days north of the Mason-Dixon line!

Kath - You crack me up!

Judy - Thanks! 34 years - WOW! When is your anniversary? ANd just three more days in Indiana for us - UNBELIEVABLE!!

Hiya, Mamie! Hope you're having a chance to watch some football. The Bears finally are starting to pull away from J-ville.

I dont envy your packing and moving stress Mamie, good luck with the final days.

I be it feels good getting rid of old junk though. It can be so liberating!

Oops! 170-plus posts behind . . .

Belated happy anniversary, Mamie! And best wishes to you in these transition days.

I enjoyed your police story. Nice to know they were at least paying attention . . .

I've had mixed experiences with police. Back in my hometown, there was one officer who was a real jerk, and gave both my dad and my brother hassles at different times for no good reason. Others were OK. My experiences with the locals here have been OK so far.

Happy Anniversary! Kudos on the Unhaving!! Best of luck with the movers. Wow! I can't believe how fast this has gone. And it is much more fun to read about it than actually do it. ; ) LOVED the police/Craig story. LOL

This time I checked with my son ...to make sure I had the right team :P

Hi Mamie!
Better get some rest for the big birthday party tomorrow!
Hope Birdy has a great day.
Memories:
How many birthday celebrations have there been in your house over the years? I'm betting a whole lot!
And this will be the last in a series...

Then it's on to new adventures and parties in the deep south ;-)
Look out GA!

Joe - I did get to watch SOME football. Our house was kind of like a train station today - lots of people in and out. Chaotic but good.

Megan - Not feeling any stress yet, but I'm sure it will hit me. Packing has not been horrible because I didn't really have to pack anything - we have a moving company that will do that for us, but I did choose to pack the books and the wine glasses myself. Hmmmm - what does that say about my priorities?!!! I have LOVED the unhaving -we got rid of a few more things today. Hip HIP HOORAY!!

Terri - Thank you! And thanks for catching up! All the police I jhave met have been really nice, but then I haven't met very many and usually only in social situations.

Kim! Hope you're feeling better. Thank you for all your good thoughts and wishes. Glad you liked the stories!

Kath - LOL!

Cee - I know tomorrow is a BIG day! The baby turns fourteen, and the movers will be packing up the house. That's a whole lot of happening going on at once!! We have lived in this house for 13 years, and we have had many, MANY birthdays and various other celebrations. Most of the big events for my family have happened here - even college graduation parties for several of my nieces and nephews that asked if i would host their parties! Easters and Thanksgivings, some Christmases - a whole lot of happy. It's been fun, and I surely have been blessed. Now they will all have to truck it all the way to Georgia if they want me to host. We already have reservations from several family members, so I am guessing that we won't have any trouble booking our guest suite!

Look out Georgia is right! Thanks so much for your sweet and touching post - you rock, Cee!!

*waving, and hoping all is good* Have a great day tomorrow! And get some sleep!

Thanks, Karen!