CEE reads 75 in 2013 (she hopes) ~ Thread 1

DID ANYONE SEE MY BOOK AND GLASSES?



"O for a Booke and a shadie nooke, eyther in-a-doore or out;
With the grene leaves whisp'ring overhede, or the Streete cryes all about.
Where I maie Reade all at my ease, both of the Newe and Olde;
For a jollie goode Booke whereon to looke is better to me than Golde.?
~John Wilson

JANUARY 2013
#1 Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami (5 stars)
#2 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie (4.25 stars)
#3 Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo (4 stars)
#4 Speaking From Among the Bones by Alan Bradley (4 stars)
#5 The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (5 stars)
#6 Enslaved by Ducks by Bob Tarte (3.75 stars)

******************************
STATS:

total books read: 6

ROOT books (off my shelf): 3

Fiction: 4
Non-Fiction: 2

male author: 5
female author: 1
male/female team author:

US authors: 4
authors from other countries: 2

living author: 6
deceased author:

My Favorites of 2012...final answer!

Best Fiction:
Matterhorn by Karl Malantes
The Seige by Helen Dunmore
Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury
Cannery Row by John Steinbeck
Sea of Poppies by Amitav Ghosh
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
The Colony of Unrequited Dreams: A Novel by Wayne Johnston
The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar
The Garden Of Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng
The Elephant's Journey by Jose Saramago

Best Non-Fiction:
The Tiger: A True Story of Vengeance and Survival by John Vaillant
The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee
Ex Libris by Anne Fadiman
The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Bailey

Honorable Mentions:
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The Birth House by Ami McKay

Hi Cee, good tidings to you and yours. I see I am near the top and hope Im not interrupting any plans for saving spots, but it is hard to resist!
Happy New Year! I really look forward to your posts, and hope for only good things for you this year.

Awwww - thanks Megan!
Your timing is perfect... I have all the space I need!
You are #1 in my new thread for the new year!

Wishing you and your family more fun and love than you could ever imagine in 2013!

LOVE that thread topper, Cee! I'm back for another year of antics and of course pie!

Hi there Mamie!
Glad to see you - hope we never run out of books or pie!

I look forward to following your thread this year, I love your favorites from last year!

>7 -Cee-: Amen, sister!

Welcome back!

Hi Claudia, I also love the sheltie picture and the poem in your opening post. Your 2012 favorite list has some great books on it and I'm always glad to see another Matterhorn fan. I'm hoping to read Marlantes' non-fiction book this year--What It Is Like to Go to War.

Happy new year; can't wait to see what you'll be reading as soon as you reclaim your glasses from the dog...

Happy New Year, Cee! I loved a number of your '12 favorites, maybe Matterhorn, The Siege, The Garden of Evening Mists and Anne Fadiman's book at the tops for me.

I hope you report on what your dog reads this year, too.

Happy New Year my friend.
Stopping by to star you so I can keep track of how life is treating you. Hope the New Year is starting out to be a good one.

Happy New Year -

-Glad to see the wild snail on your best NF list, I had quite a struggle picking the best of the best but that ended up being #2 for the year.

Hmmm missed this earlier starred!

Wow - Look at all the messages!
Hi Karen -
Nice to see you here :-) Drop in anytime.

Thanks, Jim! Couldn't resist...

Hi Pat -
Marlantes NF book of war would probably interest me too. He took a different view in Matterhorn, i.e., NOT glorifying war at all. He seems an honest writer.

LOL Gail - So, that's where they went!
Right now I am reading Kafka on the Shore. Having a hard time putting it down.

Joe -
Happy New Year! I'll be sure to let you know if Loki recs a good book!

Hi Tina -
So far, so good this year ;-)
Refering back to your comment on Red Ruby Heart in a Cold Blue Sea ~ I have read many so-so fiction books on Maine and find I am usually disappointed. Not sure why.

Happy New Year to you too, Lucy!
That little snail book packed a punch... I pulled it out and read it mainly because of your reaction to it. It's a winner.

Hi Kath!
Let me remind you once again -
DO NOT read Murakami's Kafka unless you let me tell you what chapter to rip out completely! It a tough one :(

Hi Claudia!!! Starred you!!

Hi Tammy! Thanks ;-)

DO NOT read Murakami's Kafka unless you let me tell you what chapter to rip out completely! It a tough one :(
Why is the human mind such that your sentence makes me want to track it down and look. This is why my lovely other rips articles out of the paper to hide them from me that he knows will upset me. It infuriates me and also endears him to me at the same time :)

Ha! Megan, I can say this to Kath cuz I know she trusts me in this. Although this book has me in its spell, there is one very horrible chapter on cats having a very bad time of it. I'm pretty sure you could handle it - and may even like this books a lot. Go ahead and read it.... mwaahaha!

I'm only half way through it though and I fear/hope it's all leading up to something very strange.

Here you are Cee. I've been looking for you so I could star your thread. Happy New Year to you and your family.

Cee - I have found you! I think you know without telling that I will be a regular here in 2013 God willing.

Cee, Hello and Happy New 2013!

I haven't tried to do my favourites list for 2012, but if I do, I think that The Siege will be one of them too. And Sea of Poppies was a favourite from a previous year... I hope you have some equally good reads this coming year, and I'll try to keep up and see what they are!

I promise! I take all warnings from my LT friends very seriously...
I'm sorry you read it with no warning! I know that some can read a good book
and get past the nasty bits.. but I am just not one of them. I hope you are able to
unremember it !

Yippeee... finally found you, Cee.

I love the picture of Loki wearing glasses and reading a book. That's just so adorable. I tried putting sunnies on my mom's dog but he didn't like it and pawed it off before I could take a photo.

Glad to hear you are enjoying Kafka on the Shore. That's my favorite Murakami book.

What Caro said, Cee. I loved Kafka on the Shore, and it remains my favorite of his.

Bonnie -
Happy New Year to you! Glad to see you here :-)

Paul -
Always pleased to have you visit. I have to go looking for a few more 2013 threads today - yours among them!

Well, hi there Genny!
I am starting my new reading year with a great book and I don't see that changing with all the books I have and all the LT recs I get ;-)
Wishing you all the very best and some sweet relaxation mixed in with your busy life.

Kath -
Luckily, I am one to get past the 'nasty bits' as long as the rest of the book is worth it. I also am able to 'unremember' due to the many holes in my brain. I guess they are good for something, but I lose a lot of the good stuff too :P

Caro -
Loki was not crazy about anything on his nose either. It took practice, trust and TWO of us to finally get the picture.
I'm imagining where the storyline is going in Kafka, but I have a feeling I'm not even close.

**********************
Sunny day - 5 degrees when I got up.
More PT and Dr appts - joy!

Joe -
I put Kafka on my WL based on everyone's positive response to it - but I didn't realize it would be THIS good! I just hope it doesn't go bad in the second half. The potential is high for anything happening!

Hi Cee! Thanks for linking from your 2012 thread! It made it easy for me to find you :)

Claudia- I hope you had a wonderful New Years, my friend! I did leave a post on the old thread but I may have been overlooked. WTH? Did I make to many negative snow comments? SORRY!
Kafka on the Shore was my first Murakami and remains my favorite after reading at least 6 of his books. I'm so glad you are enjoying it. I hope you get this message.

Happy New Year. I love the photo at the top! Shelties are so photogenic and beautiful.

How are you feeling these days? Pain level any better.

popping in early to wish you a good night.. sweet dreams and happy reading!
hugs

Just keeping up over here, Cee! I have Kafka on the Shore in my sights for this year - I am thinking the Ellen and someone else said they were going to read it, too. Now I am wondering who.

Ohhh, that picture of Loki is too cute!!! It was worth the effort for how much we love it, I'm sure. :D Haha.

Tina -
You are so welcome :-) Thanks for popping over!

Mark, Mark, Mark - my good friend!
I got this message and the last one!
I'm so sorry, I feel bad now - but I did NOT overlook you - and it was such a lovely message.
There was a bunch of messages (yours incl ) that hit me at a time where I missed responding. I was pretty busy in RL and when I got some free time, I had my nose in my book. I messed up on LT.
I know it's a lame explanation - but true! When I am reading a good book, my priorities are a bit messed up. I do deeply apologize. Am I forgiven?
So, when I finish Kafka, should I NOT read any of Murakami's other books?

Linda -
Happy New Year to you also! I hope your pain is getting under better control and easing off.
My shoulder is slowly but surely getting better - more flexibility, less pain. I think I'm about 75% there. Bridget (my PT daughter) says I am doing good when I give get on Skype and show her :-)

Kath -
Thanks, I am pretty tired tonight and will be hitting the hay very soon. Hugs back ;-)

Mamie -
Hmm Sorry, can't help you there. I don't recall either. And that should be no surprise. My memory is a thing of the past.

Faith -
Oh, thanks! It's always fun to play with the pets... our kids grew up and left us :(
lol

Claudia- You know I'm just giving you a hard time! It's just what I do and it's all in the name of love.
And no, do not stop reading Murakami after Kafka. LOL. I've loved all of his books. I just think I was lucky to read that one first. That Murakami Magic!

found you Cee!
hope your doing well and on the mend :)
Kafka I have "looked" at but never added so I will wait some more until you do one of your fabulous reviews :P

De-lurking to say I'm thinking of you tonite as we snuggle down to listen to that howling wind whistle through our glorious and brutally cold Maine winter night. stay warm my friend.

Kara! you are here too.. I am off to look for a thread for you..

Good morning Cee. Not too much happening here. Including reading. I will try to remedy that in a bit.. when there is a little light in the sky..

Whats happening in your woods? snow? Ice on the water? Gas Fire put in? I strongly encourage that.....
I love mine!

Hope your day is good !

Dropped a star and a belated Happy New Year to you! What a darling picture at the top!Great going with the shoulder!

Hi Cee!! Hope you are having a wonderful start to your new year! Did you get your glasses back from Loki yet? ;0

EEEEEEEk! a thousand apologies, Cee. I just realized I have failed to visit your shiny new thread nor wish you an official Happy New Year. I'm so glad I found you and lit your star.

Hi All!
With Book Club this AM and errands this afternoon, I can't even keep up with my own thread and still have so many others to get to.

I wondered about the book we read Red Ruby Heart in A Cold Blue Sea. It did not seem to have much potential for discussion. Turns out - it didn't. Ah well. We chatted about this and that for a couple hours and chose Wolf Hall for our next read. I think that is a good one???

Mark -
Whew! *wipes brow* We're still friends ;-)
So which Murakami would you rec next?

Kara -
Wonderful to see you around LT again.
Fab review? Oh the pressure.

Tina -
Sure is chilly 'round these parts! With my LL Bean jacket and fleece, I'm good to go!
We have a very strange phenomenon around here in the winter. When the temp drops down to about 10 and lower, we hear extremely LOUD BANGS coming from the back of our house. Sounds like a wrecking ball hitting the house (or what I would imagine it sounding like). Sometimes just a few bangs - sometimes quite a few! It's been happening for 14 years that I know of. Ron can't figure it out either. No damage anywhere.
Weird.

Kath -
Snow in the woods... ice in the cove... no fireplace :P Looks like I have some arm twisting to do *le sigh*

Deb -
Thanks for starring me :)
Recovering from a broken shoulder is like going on a diet - a lot of long, hard work but worth it.

Chelle -
Oh, yes. Finally found those glasses! lol
Good to see you here...

Lynda -
Lots of stars in my eyes ;-) Thanks for the one you dropped off.
Certainly no apologies necessary for me! I know it's Jan 3rd, but I haven't made much progress in the threads myself.

****************
For all those I haven't found yet - hold on! I'll get there :-)

Cee, you absolutely should NOT stop reading Murakami when you're done with Kafka. If you're up for a bigger tome, I'd recommend you read 1Q84 as your next Murakami because I think it's my second favorite of his books. The only one of his books I've read thus far that I didn't particularly care for is The Wind Up Bird Chronicles ..but having said that, I didn't hate it either.

Oh ahem ... I'll let Mark put in his 2 cents now, I guess. :-)

Caro- Well, thank you, my dear! You are a perfect gentle-woman.

Claudia- You could try either After the Quake or After Dark, both story collections that show off his diversity. And then I agree with Caro about jumping into 1Q84, which I also liked a bit more than Wind-Up Bird.
Is that 2 cents worth?

Hi Cee,
Kafka on the Shore....Ill get to it one day. Surely. I dont think Ill make it much longer without having read a fictional Murakami. All ive read is his one on running. Which was not literary or flowery or beautiful, just nice.

OK then. I won't stop Caro. Thanks for your 2 cents.

Mark -
Duly noted. Now I have 4+ cents worth. Looks like IQ84 might be a good choice.

Megan -
"...literary or flowery or beautiful..." is not how I would describe Kafka. I would say philosophical, weird, and mysterious -so far. What I am most surprised about is how easy it is to read. I hope you do give it a try sometime.

#44...Cee we have those same loud bangs on our house when the temp drops low. We have come to the conclusion that it's some sort of expansion and popping of the shingles or framing as the wood contracts from the cold. We never have the problem unless it's vulgarly, brutally cold (like the last 2 days). It's comforting to hear that we're not totally crazy.

Ok then... I would say it's not the shingles for us - as we don't have any. We have had 2 kinds of siding on our house in the last 14 years and it has happened with both. Like you say, only when it is brutally cold.
It does seem like it's something contracting and splitting - or whatever. The first night I heard it I was alone (Ron was in CT). Scary. I thought the house was falling apart and would come down on me! It was very loud and it happened in about 1-5 minute intervals for about an hour. Surely the house should have been demolished by morning. But there is no sign of anything, anywhere.
Spooky.

Hi Cee, We have those same banging noises when it gets really cold and we never had it until we built a new deck so we've concluded it was from the deck contracting and expanding.

Hi Cee, Happy New Year! I've finally found you. I like your list of favorites. I loved Cannery Row, The Space Between Us, The Book Thief, and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn - just in a different year! A few others are on the unread mtn.

Loki looks adorable with your glasses! What's he reading? I also noticed the cute pic on your profile. Woolly looks just like my late, and still missed, Smokey kitty.

It is so great that you typed CEE in all caps. It makes it so much easier to find you :)
I am dreadfully behind in all things LT including reading. I hope to change that... but I just don't know.
How ironic that working in a library ( weird changing hours) leaves me no time to read. That honestly has an impact on my reading. I am so routine driven, and have always been... that it shakes me to the core to work
weird ( to me ) hours and thus the issues. Maybe it will improve, but I have little hope at this point. I have been routine driven for nearly 60 years......

Weird about the bangs and crashes coming from ? in your house! We have had plenty of sub zero nights here and I have never experienced such a thing... It must have been scary when you were there alone. I have errands and some cooking in my future.. but hope to read a wee bit early this afternoon... happy day to you !

Awww, love the picture of Loki. Is that poetry he is reading? I can't believe I'm four days into the new year and still affixing stars. LT is getting to be a full time job!

With all the love for Kafka on the Shore, it's no wonder I never find a copy at book sales. Will try again in April!

Wishing you a year of good books and good health, Cee!

I should get you up to at least 6 cents on Murakami, Cee. Besides the ones Caro and Mark mention (I agree on 1Q84, and I liked The Windup Bird Chronicle better than either of them, sounds like - amazing book), his early writing is great and weird, too, like A Wild Sheep Chase and Hard-boiled Wonderland and the End of the World.

I've now read every one of his, including his nonfiction, and would recommend all of them. Huge variety. Mark's suggestion of reading his short stories in After the Quake or After Dark is a good one, too (and he has other excellent collections like The Elephant Vanishes); After the Quake was the first book I read of his, and I was immediately hooked.

Bonnie -
Until we bought this house in Maine, I'd never heard those banging noises in any other house. I thought it might be the deck, too. But when we put on an addition, we took down the old deck and replaced it with a new one - different design and different materials. We also replaced all the siding with different assembly design and materials. Nothing is falling apart yet and nothing looked out of order when the construction was done. No change in the bangs - so, I don't know... the only one that seems to care anymore is the dog - LOL

ok - i'm back

Joanne -
No surprise we love some of the same books - haha
Taking pics of the furkids is fun if you approach it with patience.
Loki was reading the Anthology of American Literature. Got that one for free in last summer's library book sale.

Kath -
I know how you feel about being dreadfully behind and I'm not even working (for pay).
I have to admit, I joined LT for all the benefits (incl reading friends), just never realized it would take up so much of my time (being a slow reader and slow typist). I have more things I want to read now and less time to do it! bah

Donna -
Indeed, Loki is reading poetry! Surprised me too.
"I can't believe I'm four days into the new year and still affixing stars."
I know, huh? Finding everyone's thread this year is turning out to be rather haphazard for me. I did not even look at any 2013 threads til Jan 1st - now I feel like a hamster on a wheel, ie getting nowhere fast!
Thanks for your good wishes :-)

Joe -
I think I'm getting it. Murakami is a great writer - and it's ALL good. Thanks for a few more cents. Looks like I will be adding this author to my list of favs this year.

Hope everyone finds something special about today ;-)

Hi, Cee! I have you starred now. I absolutely LOVE your first post -- the photo, the caption, and the quote!

#1 Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami (5 stars)



Woohoo! First book of 2013 finished and it was a 5 star read!
Philosophical, weird, totally absorbing, coherent, awesome...

Kafka, a 15 year old runaway in Japan, is trying to find his mother and sister while escaping the curse of his father. From the beginning, he works toward building his strength and understanding – qualities he will need it as he slips between the real world and dreams, in and out of time, and is led by forces beyond his control.
Counterbalancing Kafka is a much older Nakata who even with his very strange handicap possesses wisdom and perfect timing. The two characters are entwined in parallel journeys – each working to resolve different aspects of the same mystery.
Well written, easy to read, and puzzling by nature, this book grabbed me from the beginning and wouldn’t let me go. Characters go beyond three dimensions. Every event impacts another. Filled with magical realism, this story explores with sensitivity issues like time, loss, memories, abandonment, friendships, death, and intimacy. You will find talking cats, ghostly libraries, and classical music.
Fun quote:
”A long while later, after the files were completely burned, Hoshino stomped the ashes into dust… ‘Nobody’s gonna read it now,’ Hoshino said. ‘I don’t know what was written in it, but it’s all gone. A bit of shape and form has disappeared from the world, increasing the amount of nothingness.’
‘Mr Hoshino?’
‘What’s up?’
‘I have a question I’d like to ask.’
‘Fire away.’
‘Can nothingness increase?’
Hoshino puzzled this one over for awhile. ‘That’s a tough one,’ he admitted. ‘If something returns to nothing it becomes zero, but even if you add zero to zero, it’s still zero.’
‘I don’t understand.’
‘I don’t get it either. Thinking about those kinds of things always gives me a headache.’”

I join the throngs who extol the writings of Murakami and celebrate this great read. Thanks to Caro for sending it to me as my Swap Santa!

5 stars?!?
oh goodness I'm done for!

Would love to put Kafka on the list but I've already bought Murakami's 1Q84, loaded it on my Nook and am determined to finish that one first. I suspect they are similar writing styles.

Kara! You would like this one, I'm pretty sure. There's one chapter that was tough on cats - but you can take it if I can.

Tina - I think I will be looking for IQ84 soon. Will have to see what you think. According to those who have read several Murakamis (see 46 and 55 above), he has a lot of diversity in his writing.

ETA: Forgot to add, there is a healthy amount of sex (mostly fantasy) in this book - afterall, we are talking a 15 y/o boy. What else would one expect?

hahaha - LT Oracle says I "probably won't like" with very high confidence.

Claudia- Great review of Kafka! You should post it so I can give you a well-deserved Thumb! Because of the fantasy/surreal elements, I'm never sure how certain readers would find it. I'm glad you fell on the very positive. Yah!

ok - thanks Mark!

Cee - thanks to Caro too because she enabled a very good review. Have a great weekend. Hope your mum is OK too.

I rarely use the LT "Will you like it" feature. In this case LT assures me with a high degree of confidence that I Won't like Kafka

Thanks, Paul. I'm glad I started the year with a book Caro picked for me. I figured it would be good. Mom is fine and scheduled for a dr visit for another cortisone injection next Monday. All the dr visits lately are paying off... she's in much better form.

Tina - I just love to see how funny that oracle feature is. It's rarely right, but it gives me a chuckle.
Perhaps you'd better pick up Kafka - lol

Wonderful review.. as always :)

I'm glad it ended up being a 5 star read for you !

Thanks, Kath. It certainly was a good way to start 2013.
I started Behind the Beautiful Forevers last night. Only got through chapter 1. No comments yet.

Ron is so funny. He is not an avid reader - but when he happens to latch on to a book he loves, he's worse than I. He wanted to bring his Kindle to the supper table last night (not allowed), did not watch TV or spend much time on computer (per usual), and brought his book to bed to continue reading (rare).
I fell asleep - he was still going at it.
Oh, what is he reading???? Under the Dome by Stephen King :-)

Yay! Great review of Kafka, Cee. Thumb from me, too!

And you're following it up with the amazing, IMHO, Behind the Beautiful Forevers. What a start to the year!

What a great review of Kafka, Cee. I'm so glad you really liked it. I still have a few of his books to get to that are on my TBR Tower. I'm looking to do Sputnik Sweetheart some time in the first half of the year.

You're getting to Behind the Beautiful Forevers before me. I had almost picked that for my next read, but was drawn to a lighter read instead, so I'm just starting Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore

Hi Cee,
Im sorry to hear that your shoulder is still so sore for you. It is so not fun being in pain.
(((hugs)))

Wow, really? Under The Dome? huh. Ask him why he is liking it so much...? I remember hearing some others who liked it but I don't remember why... hope you are having a good time.. with wine.. !

Joe -
Thanks!
My Dec reading was less than I'd hoped. So, I decided to listen to my LT friends' recs and try harder this month. Of course it helps when you get a great book as a gift ;-)

Caro -
Thanks!
I expect to get to Mr Penumbra this year, too.

Megan -
btw, how is your new foot? I think I saw you are about to stand on it soon?

Kath -
He says he likes the way King writes - makes him feel like he is right there. Also, lots of twists and turns in this book that keeps luring him to the next chapter. So far, with 29% to go, he expects it will be a 5 for him.

Started The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. This is supposed to be funny? Not yet at pg 86, imo. Good book though. Unfortunately true.

Well, it's a right good thriller/suspense story! Plus the concept allows for an interesting exploration of human behavior.

If he likes that one, 11/22/63 is pretty good too.

A belated Happy New Year, Cee. I have come by to place a star and I am looking forward to following your reading this year. You've started the year off with a 5 star read, too, lucky you. I am planning on trying my first Murakami this year as well, I have The Windup Bird Chronicle in my TBR which I am now eyeballing nervously as I see it was neither Caro's or Mark's favorite.

I am really looking forward to reading My Family and Other Animals this month, and I thank you again for being such a generous Secret Santa!

Hi Jim!
I do have 11/22/63 on the shelf. I'm considering holding off on that information for a bit though so we can have a little visit first. It's been so quiet around here. Too quiet! lol

Hi Judy!
I have The Windup Bird Chronicle too - and was feeling like you. But, the avg rating is 4.25 here on LT - that's good enough for me ;-)

I hope you like My Family and Other Animals. That's one I want to read sometime myself. I have to admit - choosing books for you was a bit tough for me since I haven't read the vast majority of what was on your SWAP WL. I did wind up putting a few of them on my WL too - lol

11/22/63 is fabulous! I may have to give Under the Dome a whirl...

Funny that you are out and back already... sounds like my life, home by 8 is essential! lol

>79 mckait: That... and no one drinks (all on call for fire/emt stuff). Just a quick supper get together.

Still.. sounds like a just right time out :)
Glad you had the time out!

:-)
If we had stayed out longer, Loki might have started on the wastebasket in my reading room :P
Gotta hide them both now.

Thumbs up for your wonderful review of Kafka on the Shore.


What is it about Shelties that they love paper? Lilly not only loves any kind of paper, but she also likes to chase me around the kitchen when I'm using the swifter on the hard wood floor.

She has a quick plan of action and is so fast that she can grab the edge of the swifter pad and rip it off and run away.

Angus is my waste basket thief. He gets into the one in the bathroom if he psychically feels that there are
Qtips in there. We have rules about where to throw those out!

Still, he can find them .. or else he cllmbs into the bathroom cupboard for them..
le sigh.

Sweet giraffe dreams

LOL! I always try to get Loki outside on the porch before I start cleaning any of my floors with any implement!
He really loves (?) or hates (?) my big dustmop- keeps trying to jump on it- and barks at the vacuum. I don't let him near a swiffer. You're right! They are like lightning when it comes to demolishing paper. But Loki never eats any of it - just makes a mess!
OTOH, Woolly (my cat) nibbles dainty little scallops on the edges of my mail, bills, notes, whatever...
I DO feed them. Honest!

Would love to dream of giraffes instead of the nightmares I've been having. Maybe tonight :-)

Sweet dreams, Kath!
Don't forget when you get up tomorrow is a day of rest.

Great review of Kafka on the Shore Claudia. I've had that one on my PBS wishlist for ages but it never comes up for me. I may have to break down and buy it. Maybe I'll make it one of my Thingaversary gifts in February.

I'm so glad to hear you Mom is doing well these days.

Enjoy your reading. It's a great start to the year for you.

Terrific review of Kafka on the Shore CEE and somehow its landed on my WL. I hate to admit that I haven't read any Murakami yet although I own two of them. I hope to get to them this year.

Cee - I loved your review of Kafka on the Shore. What a great quote you chose! The only Murakami that I have read is IQ84 and it was very good.

Thumb from me as well!

Bravo on your wonderful review of Kafka on the Shore. I'm impressed that you read it! I think Haruki Murakami is beyond me!

Glad to see your first book was a five star read!!

Ha. Found you, Cee! Happy New Year (a bit belatedly but no less sincerely meant).

Five stars for Kafka on the Shore. Well. That motivates me to put it on the list of planned reads for February (January already being, erm, overbooked).
And I'm so glad you are getting into Behind the Beautiful Forevers as it was one of my favorite reads in 2012.

A five star read to start off the year?! Good going, Claudia!

Murakami is one of my LT discoveries. I have greatly enjoyed all of the books I have read of his and I look forward to reading more.

Kath - I'm reading Under the Dome at the moment and I'm not sure if it is a Kath book ... some pretty gruesome things happen and not just to humans!

hmm Morgan is a paper nibbler, too. She always has been!
I'm with Deb on Murakami , have never felt called to read any...I am very into reading for pure pleasure..
So calm, thanks for the warning! Gruesome human stuff doesn't bother me.. but when it comes to the furkids.. but you all know that.. so I appreciate the heads up . The Passage was fine... and it was pretty gruesome. Go figure :)

Hey CEE! I own Kafka on the Shore, after reading your review, I'm glad I do. I will definately get to it sometime in the next year or two....but hopefully sooner.
Have a wonderful Sunday!

Morning Claudia- You are kicking off the year in high fashion, my friend! I hope you are enjoying the Boo book. It was easily one of my top reads of last year. I was also a big fan of Part-Time Indian. I loved those illustrations too. Hope you are keeping warm.

Way to go, finishing the first book of the year. Glad it to hear it was a 5 star read!!!

Wow - all these visitors! And all so quiet... didn't hear you come in.

Hi Pat -
Thanks... Kafka would be a good choice for a Thingaversary purchase, imo of course. Don't know why I avoided Murakami books before. Somehow I got the impression it would be hard to read - but it's not. I'll give him a rest for awhile only because there are so many other books I want to get to.

Bonnie -
Thanks. If you read a different Murakami book, I'll be v interested in your take on it. If his books are as different as LTers (whom I totally trust!) say, then reading his works will be a grand adventure, I'm thinking! That was a convoluted sentence - but you get my drift, right?

Mamie -
Did you write a review on IQ84? I don't remember. Wondering what it's about... maybe I should check the book reviews. I just hate being influenced by them before I read the book myself. Yeah, I thought that quote was kinda funny - especially when you are familiar with the two characters talking.

Thanks, Tina! Hope you are feeling better :-)

Deb -
I thought Murakami would be beyond me too and I was pleasantly surprised to find it an easy and enjoyable read. I hesitated to make it one of my first books for 2013. Then I decided it would actually be a good time to tackle it since I would have all year to finish it - lol

Chelle -
I know, huh? I've been thinking I hadn't had a 5 star read in awhile and I was glad to be immersed in one finally. I was a little worried it might all fall apart. There was so much potential for this book to turn on me. But, it never did. It was good to the end.

Hi Ellen -
Well. I am reading Behind the Beautiful Forevers and have only gotten through about 3 or 4 chapters. I'm not sure where it is going and it is not particularly grabbing me yet. The subject matter is disturbing, of course. Hate to read about such abject poverty. Hoping this book goes further than just highlighting the hopelessness of the plight of the poor in India.

Stasia!
I'm glad to hear you like all the books you've read by Murakami. That gives me more incentive to pick up another of his works. Are you on break? I'll have to hunt for your thread and see how things are going for you. How much more schooling for you???

Hi Calm -
Thanks for the warning. Ron says it is not "overly gross" - it's mostly people that get killed.
ok...is that all??? No problem then :{
Well, anyway, one has to remember it's a Stephen King book.

Kath -
I have The Passage around here somewhere TBR. I'll get to it someday. I don't plan much of my reading though. It just happens!

Lynda -
Thanks - hope your Sunday is a great one too! Don't worry. Kafka will be there when you are ready. You know that's just how books are :-)

Hi Mark -
Exactly how does one "enjoy" the Boo book? Am I taking it too seriously? I'm waiting to see why so many think it is one of their top reads. Maybe I have not gotten into it enough yet???
Part Time Indian illustrations do take this book to another level. I'm liking it. And, don't worry. I'm keeping cozy warm. Loving winter weather!

Tammy!
Yup. One down, 74 to go. And the more, the merrier!

Hi Cee - It is definitely mostly people who get hurt in Under the Dome but there are some animals as well and I think some of the scenes are at a "not for Kath" level. I might be wrong.

Yeah - I think Kath is already well convinced :-) She takes those warnings seriously. Thanks.

Joining Kath in avoiding that.

Hi Cee, I'm currently reading Under the Dome. It's quite the page-turner but it is NOT for Kath!

Ellen -
I understand. There's plenty of other stuff out there to read!

Joanne -
I'm chuckling at Ron - it's got him good! I'm torn. I'm kinda in-between. I can take some brutality if it gets in the way... but certainly not an overload.
Truthfully though I think I'd rather read 11/22/63 first. Then I will have had enough of Stephen King for awhile.

Oh good! I hope you do read 11/22/63, it was wonderful!

And I do indeed take warnings seriously :)

#2 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie (4.25 stars)



Very real issues facing the Native American population are alcoholism, poverty, hopelessness and lack of opportunity. This book did not seem funny to me at first as it began to tackle these problems as they impacted a 14 year old boy living on a reservation.

After about 100 pages, as I became absorbed in the story and hope seemed to rise out of the ashes, I began to see the humor in the pain. The skinny, nerdy boy, Arthur, did not let the world get the better of him. His attempt to change his life's potential is a heart-breaking and heart-warming story.

The format of this book makes it very readable - there are many illustrations that are funny. A great YA book.

Hi Cee! Just catching up with your thread...I LOVE the pic of your very studious dog at the top.

Sandy K

I'm glad you liked The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Sherman Alexie is a great writer.

Thanks for the great review.

#101: Yes, I am on break right now - until the 16th. I have a ton of schooling left as I have decided to pursue a 4-year degree instead of a 2-year one.

#108: I have had that book in the BlackHole for a while now. I really need to get around to reading it one of these days. Glad to see you enjoyed it so much, Claudia.

Kath -
I remember you loved 11/22/63 and it's one reason I want to read it. I probably need to read that one when I know I have a lot of free time.

Hi Sandy -
Thanks. He's a sweetie! Now if I could just teach him to do housework - lol

Linda -
What else would you rec that was written by Alexie?

Stasia -
Oh, cool! I knew you'd love school. What are you majoring in? I'm excited for you ;-)
I have to admit the title of Absolutely True Diary was kinda hokey and I only read it cuz others rec'd it. It's worth the time - especially for you who can read at the speed of lightning!

*****************
Hope everyone has a great day. It'll be Dr appt for Mom (trying another cortisone injection) and PT for me (oh joy) - plus grocery shopping :PPPP to all of them.
However, I get to start a new book today. So I think it will be Enslaved by Ducks. Need something light.
The Boo book is heavy... think I might move that one to my daytime reading. Not a good one for bedtime.

Morning Cee! I LOVED 11/22/63 also - I read it last year and it was my first Stephen King. And yes, I did write a review of IQ84 - I'll go dig it up for you. There aren't any spoilers.

Okay, found it. Here it is:

This was my first Murakami. It won't be my last. You need time for this one, and also imagination, and perhaps a love of the bizarre. It is chock full of literary, music, and film references that add a depth and a richness to the tapestry that Murakami is creating by weaving together interesting characters, a surreal storyline, and imagery that is at times disturbing. Originally, I wasn't sure that I was going to like where this journey was taking me, but in the end the story delivered and left me knowing that I will pick this up again in the future to reread passages that I am still thinking about. I may have put the book down, but it hasn't let go of me.

In the beginning we meet Aomame, the main female character, who is riding in a taxi that is about to be stuck in traffic on an elevated expressway. She cannot afford to be late to her destination, and so she takes the advice of the taxi driver: "You could take the subway to Shibuya from here, but you'd have to do something a little...extreme." He proceeds to tell her that she can use the turnout on the expressway to access a stairway that will take her down to street level and from there catch the subway. The driver's parting words to her are an omen to both Aomame and the reader: "...you're about to do something out of the ordinary....And after you do something like that, the everyday look of things might seem to change a little. Things may look different to you than they did before....But don't let appearances fool you. There's always only one reality."

Next we meet Tengo, who teaches math at a cram school by day and writes in his free time. He dreams of being a novelist. He loses his hold on 1984 when he agrees to rewrite a novella submitted by a young girl to help it win a literary prize. He knows that he should not become involved in what is sure to be a scandal if the truth gets out, but he cannot resist the lure of her story. It calls to him.

IQ84 is what? An alternate version of 1984? A parallel world? A twisted homage to George Orwell's 1984 that goes backwards in time instead of forward? Perhaps the book is best described by Murakami himself in the dialogue that he wrote for Aomame and Tamaru:

"Still reading Proust?"
"But not making much progress," Aomame replied. It was like an exchange of passwords.
"You don't like it?"
"It's not that. How should I put it-it's a story about a different place, somewhere totally unlike here....By a different place, I mean it's like reading a detailed report from a small planet light-years away from this world I'm living in. I can picture all the scenes described and understand them, It's described very vividly, minutely, even. But I can't connect the scenes in that book with where I am now. We are physically too far apart. I'll be reading it, and I find myself having to go back and reread the same passage over and over again....It's not boring, though," she said. "It's so detailed and beautifully written, and I feel like I can grasp the structure of that lonely little planet. But I can't seem to go forward. It's like I'm in a boat, paddling upstream. I row for a while, but then when I take a rest and am thinking about something, I find myself back where I started."

Hope your day is going well and that you treat yourself to something nice before the day is gone..

OK, thanks Mamie!
That sounds pretty cool. I think it sounds a bit like Kafka in some ways... like the general feel of other worldly realities.
I remember that review now. It was a really good one ;-)

Hi Kath!
I'm going to treat myself to an early bedtime, methinks. I wonder if I scanned back over my threads for the past few months... would I discover I have chronic fatigue? Geesh!
Ron came down with a cold last night and woke me up several times... add that to my shoulder pain which did the same, AND I had to get up early with the dog - then run around all day. THIS is retirement, heh? :PPPPPPP

btw, I started Enslaved by Ducks. Funny! I keep reading parts of it to whoever will listen. lol

Cee! I loved that review of the Sherman Alexie. I've already added it to my wish list. Thanks for the BB hit! :)

Behind the Beautiful Forevers is not for the faint of heart Cee, that's for sure. It's an eye-opening look at survival of the fittest. But I found it to be eloquently told and well worth reading.

Hmmm sorry Ron is sick.. make him sleep on the porch. Cold clean air is good for you :)

I'm glad you are liking Enslaved by Ducks. I LOL'ed at that one too. It has a "moment" or two in it, but overall it is very funny. If you search on YouTube, there are videos of the author and some of the pets he writes about... very goofy, quite endearing, though.

OK... safe to read. Not cranky.
I got some sleep and feel more rested today ;-)

Tina -
Thanks. I think you'll like Part Time Indian. Give it a shot!

Bonnie -
The first several chapters of Behind the Beautiful seems to be introducing characters and setting the scene. Now that I am into part 2, it's flowing better. I haven't read a book about India yet that was for the faint of heart. Sooo many people, sooo much poverty and violence. heavy sigh.

I'm still waiting to see why this is such an acclaimed book by so many. Apparently awesome books don't reveal themselves right away???? So, I'll keep going. (which is my style anyway, I can never give up on any book)

Kath -
Strangely, what Ron had must not have been a cold. He was so sick with sore throat, headache, and congestion - but is already better! Very unusual but welcome development :-)
So, he doesn't have to sleep on the porch. That sounds like a cool idea though! Maybe I will...
OTOH, Loki puked a very little this morning and I am trying to tag it as "one of those things".

YouTube. Whatever. I wouldn't have the foggiest idea how to "search" it. So, this guy still has all his crazy pets? He must be NUTS!

Hi Cee! I'm another vote for you reading 11/22/63! I loved it! And it's not typical King, nothing goes bump in the night or anything like that ;)

hey CEE, I'm glad you enjoyed PT Indian. I read it last year and was impressed with it. I hope to read more Alexie in the future, what about you?

Hi Chelle -
I know. Seems all reports on 11/22/63 are enthusiastic. It'll be sometime this year for me :-)

Lynda -
Oh, probably. Will have to see what pops up. I'll be on the lookout for more Alexie. It's just that I have soooo many books I already know I want to read. Life is too short - as they say :(

**********************
Haircut: Ron (uncharacteristically) complimented me twice on it. Hm.

LL Bean: Went in, browsed around, went out. No purchase. Hm.

Supper: DQ Blizzard - French Silk Pie. Hmmmmmmmmmmm

I think if you search the title on YouTube? I don't remember. I can find it for you if you like :)
Amy said there is something going around the office that makes you feel like a" goner" for a day or two and then goes away. She had it. She is better.. he must have had the goner thing.

True what Chelle said about the King. Non-typical.

Haircut.. I wanna see it

No purchases at LL again!
sheesh!

Blizzard, yum.

Hi Claudia- I'm glad the Boo book is beginning to pick up for you. "I'm still waiting to see why this is such an acclaimed book." Her incredible writing style is what grabbed me immediately and then the depth of her compassion for these people. Her living with these people for several months really gave her a true insight.
I know RD detested it! So some didn't like it.

Kath -
Sorry no pictures of haircut. You'll have to come to my house. hehehe

Mark -
She lived with them? I missed that. eeeeoooooo I could never do that. I would be packing them all up to get them out of there! (which they would probably not appreciate one bit)

I don't 'detest' the book. I have yet to be moved by it.
A FIne Balance addressed the poverty issues in what I thought was a much better book. Of course that was fiction and Beautiful Forevers is non-fiction (?).

I don't think she actually lived with them but visited them regularly for months, maybe even longer. I have a Fine Balance lined up for July. I've been wanting to read that one for a few years now.
Good night, my friend!

Hi Cee,
I've been on the fence about 11/22/63. As a teenager, I was an avid reader of Stephen King until I got to It and realized that this was not going to help my insomnia..... I've read a couple of his works since then but not much. Chelle's and Kath's comments here are making me think I'd like to check this one out.

And I still want to read Kafka on the Shore this year.
I'm glad you enjoyed Part-time Indian and I'm sorry Behind the Beautiful Forevers is disappointing.

No pictures? humph!

Nothing much going on here yet.. I work early.. have to leave a bit early and stop at the drug store
before I go in... I need more Purell. srsly.

Did you finish the Duck book?
Will you read the next one? I didn't like the sequel as well. It was okay.. but not quite as good imo.

I totally crashed last night.. and I admit that I can't wait to get this workday behind me.
See ya later.. hope it's a good one for you :)

Mark -
Just as I was closing the Boo book last night, I noticed there is something by or about the author at the end. I'll have to check that out.

Ellen -
From the Stephen King I have read in the past - yikes! no. Not an aid to sleep...

Kath -
LOL Finish? Finish the Duck book?
I just started it a couple busy days ago. I do wish I could knock them off like you. But, no. I am slower than molasses in January!

I really liked Kafka on the Shore when I read it last year. Good review. Also, I've been wanting to read The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian...perhaps I'll dig up the time this year.

Hi Rachel!
Thanks for stopping by... nice to see you :-)
It won't take much time to read Part Time Indian. Go for it!

Cee, lol, yeah, and when I was younger, it was okay to stay up all night to finish a book and stave off the monsters, but adult life does put a crimp on those "up reading until 3am" episodes. Sometimes I miss them....

What Bonnie said (>118 brenzi:) goes for me, too, Cee, re Behind the Beautiful Forevers. I hope it connects with you more than it's doing so far.

A Fine Balance is probably the saddest book I ever read. Beautifully written.

Hi Cee - this is Vivian delurking and adding my two cents to the 11/22/63 discussion....It was my first King as I do not enjoy horror at all. I listened to the audio and was completely and totally absorbed despite its length. I was worried about how he could possibly wrap it up and found the ending perfect. So I definitely recommend it.

I also was less than blown away with Behind the Beautiful Forevers, perhaps due to too much hype. I was much more moved by A Fine Balance as I think was mentioned above.

Thanks for all your great comments - I enjoy your thread!

Popping in to say hey over here... I used to read tons of King, but haven't indulged in quite a while. I read It in high school and slept with my lights on for a few weeks :)

I am considering finding a new home for Dan.. are you interested?

Ellen,
I sure do miss the late or all night read-ins! My "adult" eyes can't take it :(
Just as well. I would be a naughty retiree :}

Joe,
I have a long way to go - so it has a good chance of getting better. I think I will read the part about the author before I continue. This may be a case of something that comes at the end and should have been an intro.

Hi Vivian!
You just never know who's lurking out there ;-)
Glad you decided to make a statement!

With all the recs, I will def have to read 11/22/63 this year.
Re Behind the Beautiful Forevers:
Usually a lot of hype doesn't matter to me. In this case I just need to keep reading and see what happens. There's so much corruption. Seems hopeless. But I think Boo will tackle how to break out of the victimization??? THAT would be interesting.

Tina -
The only time I ever slept with the light on all night was at my MIL (a long time ago). She had washed the sheets and hung them on the line outside. An ugly bug came in with them- of course on MY bed! After I saw that, the room was inspected and the light stayed on. I got very little sleep. I still wonder if that was planted on purpose... we didn't like each other much.

Kath -
Dan who??? :PPPPPPPPPP

still wonder if that was planted on purpose... we didn't like each other much.
Ha! really? That would be pretty harsh......but its nearly a universal thing, isnt it, to dislike ones Mil. I have issues in that department too. It started with the not giving me eye contact and then interrupting 90% of my sentences.....talk about grating on my nerves!

Yup, Megan. MIL=Problem
It started with me when MIL made first visit to our apartment just after we were married and ran her finger on top of the refigerator to see if it was dusty.

I thought it ended when she died, but I swear it was her ghost (2 days later) that pushed me over on that wet wharf that broke my shoulder.
She was a wicked stepmother! Ron's real mother died when he was only 4 y/o. She treated him bad all the time, which is really why I disliked her intensely!
Oh dear - don't get me started!

One of my friends has the quintessential evil MIL, Cee. She would come over and find fault with everything my friend had done, from the way the meal was cooked, to how stuff was arranged in the pantry, the brand of soap her poor darling son was being made to shower with, to the clothes she wore. She came close to committing matri-inlaw-cide more than a few times. It's mean to say this, but her MIL had a stroke,, now can't speak and lives in a nursing facility ... and my friend looks 10 years younger from the stress relief.

I am extremely lucky in my mother-in-law. She has always treated me just like one of her own. I miss seeing her since I miss so many of the family holidays because of my work situation.

MIL=Problem

I could not agree more. Amen, sister!

What a terrible memory (bug in bed)! That would indeed be an evil thing to plant on purpose! Do y'all get along better now, Cee?

141 LOL to "matri-inlaw-cide" term!

Caro -
Your poor friend! Glad she got that stress relief :-)
I'm pretty sure there are some awesome MILs out there. I just didn't get that lucky.

Stasia -
I'm very happy that your MIL loves you. You are indeed lucky!
I think if Ron's real mom had lived, so many things would have been better.

Mamie -
Sorry to hear you are in the same boat. I will never miss the only MIL I have ever known :P She was a piece of work.

Tina -
We were only ever civil. She's dead now. If she went to Heaven, she was forgiven by a bigger spirit than mine! lol

My mother in law was never any of those things. She simply ignored me 90% of the years I knew her .
Before we married, she would hang the phone up if I called, after calling me names... She eventually warmed up to the kids though, so I forgave her. She was odd though. I adored my FIL. He adored my kids and was always nice to me ...

So do you have an appt today to discuss pain relief? I hope so. I need to say it again.. take it easy.. do NOT try to do too much too soon. I swear that it is a bad idea. Learn from my stupidity... rest your shoulder for a year... if it twinges or feels off.. STOP what you're doing. It is so easy to forget that you have damaged yourself. That is what I did.. just... forgot. And then I ignored pain .. Stupid. So do not do that!!!

What else is going on in yr life? How is your mom doing? Are you enjoying a break in the weather?
( 60 here on the weekend!)

Yes. Dr appt today. YAY!
"It is so easy to forget that you have damaged yourself."
Not in this case. I would like to forget, but it hurts all the time. It's been a fine balance of trying to recover range of motion without pushing into too much pain. I've made a lot of progress, but have a good chunk to go. Some of my muscles are not cooperating.

Mom is quite a bit better. Antidepressant that she has started is doing wonders. New cortisone injection is working well.

January thaw in progress. 40 here at the moment.

Cee, I'm another one feeling inclined to follow all the advice and read 11/22/63 this year. Folks really seem to like it!

I hope your recovery continues and I'm very glad to hear that your mom is doing better!

My 90-year-old FIL is moving (with his brand new 80-year-old wife) into an apartment in their retirement community and it's definitely impacting our lives these days. Spending time helping sort through so many things, many of which have been in the family for a long time. Youngest BIL had a meltdown from Washington DC last night. Sigh.

Hey there, Cee! I'm sorry to hear that your shoulder is bothering you. Pain sucks.

I lucked out in the mother-in-law sweepstakes. We get along very well, we have lunch/dinner with her often, yet she doesn't interfere with our lives.

It's in the 40's here in Cleveland, too. I'm glad that all the ice has melted off of my driveway, but hate the brown soggy look!

Sandy K

I'm another who lucked out in the MIL sweepstakes. My MIL is a lovely woman, always very nice to me and we get along. She was shocked when the hubster and I first went over to visit and stay with them for a few days because after the dinner, the hubster got up and after the plates were cleared, he started washing the dishes. She said he had never done that before ... well, duh... of course... that's because she never made any of her sons or her own husband help around the house. I on the other hand didn't think it was normal for anyone living in a house not to pull their own weight when it came to housework and cooking. So when the hubster and I moved in together, we split the duties .. I cooked, he washed, and we'd share in the house cleaning duties. So when she saw him washing, she went to tell him to stop and I asked her nice to please not ruin all my training. :-) She laughed and didn't stop him, and now she even stays sitting and lets him make her tea when we're over.

>141 cameling: She came close to committing matri-inlaw-cide
LOL

Tricky things Mil's huh? I hope to be an awesome one day. My lovely other's mother in law is really cool, even he thinks so.

Caro... is it too late to get you to retrain Dan? or is over 60 a dealbreaker?

Hey Cee.... just looking in on you ~ hope it was a good day.

I applaud all the wonderful MILs! We need you out there!
Ron's stepmom had major issues - lots of them. Unfortunately, it all had a very negative impact on all of us... incl the kids.
I truly hope she is healed - wherever she is now.

Ellen -
I had a super day today! My ortho doc gave me a cortisone injection in my shoulder and I am sooooo much better. The bad pain is gone. Only a little acheyness left - which I can handle. For the first time since Oct 16th (the dastardly day of infamy), I feel like I have two (2)!!! functional arms. Still have a way to go, but the doc was pleased with my progress :-)

I don't know... you would think by age 80-90 they would know better??? Hey... If they are happy, good for them! The family has a bit of adjusting to do ;-)

Sandy -
Shoulder is so much better today I feel like I should make a sacrifice in a temple! That cortisone shot was magic. I was warned it could feel like crap tomorrow - but that will pass. It'd better! I'm not a long suffering sweetheart :P
xoxo for your MIL!

Caro -
LOL. I did the same with my husband (survival training). My Mom can't believe what a great guy he is! She was of the same generation and ideology as your mother. Spoiled her husband rotten - made me squirm :P
You reap what you sow. Right? Well, it worked for us ;-)

Megan -
I hope we are still around when your boys grow up and get married so we can cast our votes. My early voting ballot says you will be a very cool MIL!

*******

Whoa-oa-oa! I feel good!

oops! Hi Kath!
yup - good day. See above...

Now you just relax for 4 days!!! or try...
:-)

#3 Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo (4 stars)



This was an excellent book. Boo has written an enlightening expose of the poverty and corruption in modern India using a tiny sliver of connected/related people living in a slum of Mumbai. It took me awhile to understand the flow of the book, but it did all come together to portray disturbing realities.

I recommend reading the author blurb at the back of the book before reading the body of the story. It sets the reasons, hopes, and expectations of writing this particular account. It helped me understand where this was going. Like the author, I don't just want to hear how horrible slum life is. I want to explore what hope and opportunities are available to lift up the undercities and promising individuals within. Boo tried to address this. Obviously, there is no magic cure.

"... maybe because of the boiling April sun, he thought about water and ice. Water and ice were made of the same thing. He thought most people were made of the same thing, too. He, himself, was probably little different, constitutionally, from the cynical, corrupt people around him...
If he had to sort all humanity by its material essence, he thought he would probably end up with a single gigantic pile. But here was the interesting thing. Ice was distinct from -and in his view, better than - what it was made of.
He wanted to be better than what he was made of. In Mumbai's dirty water, he wanted to be ice. He wanted to have ideals. For self interested reasons, one of the ideals he most wanted to have was a belief in the possiblity of justice...
He wanted to be recognized as better than the dirty water in which he lived. He wanted a verdict of ice."

Recommended reading.

Only 4 stars? Waiting patiently, drumming fingers, chewing nails, watching the clock.

Actually I only gave it 4 stars also although I thought it was very, very good. When I got to the end, that's how I was feeling. And I read it before all the hype, as an ER book. Good for you Cee. And thank goodness you are finally getting some pain relief.

I'm one of the lucky ones. I had a wonderful MIL and could barely be consoled when she passed away at the young age of 64.

Mark -
What's wrong with 4 stars? Behind the Beautiful Forevers was very good. You were right and I certainly don't regret reading it. However, I was moved much more by A Fine Balance - same themes; better written imo
As I look back on that one, I have to change my past rating from 4.5 to 5. It had a strong impact on me and is a favorite.

Bonnie -
You know, maybe if we took a vote, we would discover there are many more greatly loved MILs than not.
And I agree - 64 is VERY young! Sorry you did not get to enjoy her longer :(

In my case of being a MIL to 2 SILs, I'm pretty sure one would mourn and one would celebrate my passing. It's a wash. Can't please them all.

Nothing is wrong with 4 stars! Just joshing you, my friend. Actually I'm glad you liked it enough to give it 4. Yah! Looking forward to A Fine Balance.

Cee
I really enjoyed The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven. Sherman Alexie is a very good writer.

Great review of Behind The Beautiful Forevers. It is now on my tbr list.

Morning Cee! Glad to see you were feeling so well yesterday! BtBF is already on my wishlist, it sounds very interesting.
My MIL has always been a dear. Her husband was my boss for 15 years before he was my FIL and she always treated his office staff nicely with homemade treats and Christmas gifts so it made for a good beginning.
Have a feel good day, Cee!

#156: I just picked that book up at the local library last night. I hope I enjoy it as much as you did, Claudia!

I hope the cortisone shot is continuing to work :)

Well then, it looks like yesterday was a successful one for you! When you can end it with Whoa! I feel good.. that seems like a good thing :) I haven't ever heard of ( or experienced ) cortisone feeling bad the next day...
( Knee problems after a fall years ago) so I am hoping the trend of less pain continues ! I am very glad that you have found some relief.

So, what will you do to celebrate your day? Shopping? Dinner out? Doing nothing? Nothing is always good :)

Wonderful review there, my friend.

Oh yeah! It's still working! I slept great and ready now to take on the world. Gosh. Can't believe how much the shoulder actually did hurt and was getting me so down. I was trying to push through it but losing ground and quite discouraged. Today I feel good for the first time in a long time :-)

Mark -
You are such a josher! At least throw in a haha or lol when you josh so I will know. Otherwise I will wonder if I should take you at your word when you make recs :PPPP And I DO count on your good judgement for book recs - so be nice to me!
Maybe I can take the teasing better now that I feel good.
Have a great long weekend!

Linda -
I've seen mixed opinions now on Alexie's Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight. I'll have to read it now and see what I think.
Actually, BtBF is quite sad. And the more I think about the culture of slum survival, meaningless deaths, blatant corruption, rampant hopelessness, and stinking poverty, the more I feel discouraged about it all. And I have to wonder what the level of poverty actually is in our own cities by comparison.

Lynda -
It's starting to look like MILs are getting an undeserved bad rap. Perhaps it is a thing of the past and my MIL was a leftover of those times. Of course, she was a STEPmother similar to Cinderella's. I bet it is a blessing to have a loving or at least caring woman as a MIL and grandmother for your kids. Happy for you and others that have/have had that :-)

Stasia -
I hope you like it too! Part one (introducing the characters) felt a bit scattered for me and was a rough start. I just wish I had read the author's note at the back. No real spoilers in it that I could see. The book had no real surprises in it anyway. More a documentary than anything with a plot. But Boo did a good job.

**************
Today - don't know. I feel like the world is my oyster. But I guess it will be a day of chores and hopefully reading. Supposed to be very warm - 40's - so will try to get out.

Our book group is tackling Wolf Hall and it makes me a bit nervous since I don't know much about English history. I know there was a good tutorial type thread recently and will try to find it again. At least that should help.

I also will be starting an ER book I've had for awhile Speaking from Among the Bones - a Flavia de Luce novel. I liked the others, so I'm glad to get this one.

Also working on Enslaved by Ducks - though it is no 'work' at all. Quite funny and light. Taking that one slow as it is a fun read and a good book to read at bedtime. I've been so drained and tired - it's a treat to smile at the end of the day.

146 -- actually laughed at that comment Cee! Glad to see the cortisone is helping!! God bless pain relief, huh?!

Great to hear that you are feeling better. Enjoy your day.

Great review, Cee. And I'm very pleased to hear that your shoulder is better with the cortisone shot! Hooray for modern medicine!

Tina -
Amen! Still pain free - hard to believe.

Judy -
Thanks! I did for the first time in a long time :-)

Thanks, Ellen. I know, huh? I was inclined to refuse a shot directly into my joint. Too much hype about pain, etc. But what the heck - I already had the pain. This was my only way out and I'm glad I took the plunge. One of my best decisions.

Glad to hear you are still pain free!

Hmm, better post here before you skip onto another thread...

108: It’s semi-autobiographical and he has a similar style in person (well, on video), painful and hilarious simultaneously.
156: High on my list but I’m waiting for the paperback, also may do an India cluster that includes the extremes.
154: Cortisone is a wonder drug.

I'm impressed with your courage.

Claudia- I'm glad you are feeling better. Fingers crossed that it continues. Hugs!

Hi Stasia -
Thanks! You must be loving having a school break, reading what you want, and flitting around LT. Good to see you ;-)

Hi there Katherine!
I was waiting for the paperback version of Beautiful Forevers too... but my library had it. So...
I would agree about the cortisone. I had a very good experience.

Ellen -
Aww... thanks. I was pretty brave, huh? That might be it for 2013. LOL

Thanks, Mark. Now see how nice that was?
Frankly my fingers are still crossed.
Will see how long this lasts. A loooong time I hope.

Hugs back!

Oh, me too. I hope it lasts months and months!

Cee - I am so thankful that the cortisone worked! Very nice review of Behind the Beautiful Forevers - that quote that you chose is one of the parts of the book that really spoke to me, too.

Hoping that you have a fabulous weekend!

I love opening your thread to a photo of Loki.

What a stunningly beautiful dog!

Do you have to brush Loki often?

I'm glad the cortesone shot worked for you. Pain tends to wear one down. I'm glad you have a respite.

Glad you liked Behind the Beautiful Forevers, Cee. What she pulled off in connecting to that community and understanding it and communicating it to us boggles my mind - not to mention the excellence of her writing.

I'm with Linda on The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven. I thought it was great - well-crafted, giving glimpses into an unfamiliar (to me) world, and moving.

It is nothing like The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian. I suspect some of the mixed reactions come from those who expected it would be.

Hi Claudia! I'm so glad you ended up liking Behind the Beautiful Forevers because I got a copy about a year ago when I started reading positive reviews on LT but of course haven't read it yet.

I also have a wonderful MiL and, besides my husband, she's probably the person I admire the most.

I'm glad your Mom is doing well these days and that the cortisone shot made such a difference for you.

The Wolf Hall tutorial was as I remember excellent with Ilana and Suz if I'm not at all mistaken. Great to see you so upbeat and well. How is the arm by the way?

Have a lovely weekend.

Sleeping in? Or sitting with coffee making happy plans for the day?
I hope that whatever you do, the day is bright and happy for you....
Sixty ish here today. Interesting.

My plan is to read......we'll see how that goes :)

>156 -Cee-:: I know what you mean about it taking a bit to get into the flow of the book... but once it happened, it happened! I have about 10 pages left to read (I wanted to finish it last night, but fell asleep... of course) and have really, well, I'm not sure "enjoyed" is the right word, but I think you know what I mean.

Hi Cee, Happy Saturday! Hope you're still feeling terrific and hope it continues. Enslaved by Ducks sounds like a hoot. Is it as amusing as it sounds?

Yay for cortisone shots!
Yay for 4-star books! I also gave the Boo book (love saying that) 4 stars and, yes, I liked it very much.

I hope you have a wonderful pain-free week end, Cee!

#4 Speaking From Among the Bones (ER book) by Alan Bradley (4 stars)



She’s at it again! Flavia de Luce - that wonderful, feisty twelve year old detective is getting into trouble and hovering between childhood and adulthood. Part five of a series, Speaking From Among the Bones, continues to be a learning experience in poisons and chemistry, a rollicking good mystery, and the development of its humorous, quick thinking main character. Fast moving and an easy read, this book could be read as a stand-alone and still be lots of fun.
Recommended YA or adult.

Hi ALL!

Just let me point out - I do realize I gave Behind the Beautiful Forevers and Speaking from Among the Bones the same ratings (4 stars). That is not to say I think both books are on the same level. I rate the books I read by genre, and what I expect and have read from that category of books.
So, I do not hold novels, non-fiction, mysteries, sci-fi, historical fic, bios, poetry, YA, GN, ETC to the same standards for rating.

Ellen -
Yes, indeed! For months and months - forever, amen!

Mamie -
Thanks. Re the quote - I just wish there had been more emphasis on that kind of thinking in Boo's book.

Linda -
Ron and I take turns brushing Loki. A little here, a little there. It adds up I guess. If he is bothering us for a meal (a bit early) we occupy him with some brushing before he gets his food.
You are so right. Pain wears one down... and makes me so cranky and discouraged. You handle it much better than I.

Joe -
It's obvious to me (and others) that Boos did a nice job accumulating and pulling together the Indian slum experience.
Your take on The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven encourages me to look into it more.

>156 -Cee-: I don't just want to hear how horrible slum life is. I want to explore what hope and opportunities are available to lift up the undercities and promising individuals within.

Cee, I have been on the lookout for a book that will change my negative preconceptions about India. Is this book positive, hopeful and full of the wonders of positive human relationships? If so I think I will seek it out ;) The literature I have read so far concerning India has only reinforced my idea of violence and corruption being rife. (this has also been backed up by people I know who have visited- all of them have been ripped off, some in quite elaborate ways).

Glad the cortisone is working its magic, long may it continue indeed!

Hi Pat,
Things are starting to level off around here after a very trying few months. Life is like kayaking in the wind. After a strong adversarial blow there is always a let-up to give one a chance of making headway.

Paul -
Yes, you do remember correctly. I expect what Suz and Ilana covered will double the size of what I have to read - but will be very enlightening!
Arm is great! Weekend is super!
Hope yours is too...super weekend, that is. I expect your arm is doing just fine.

Kath -
This morning caught me finishing up my ER book. It was a good one ;-)
Going out for supper tonight *grin*
Hope you are relaxing or having great fun or both!

Faith -
"... once it happened, it happened!"
Yup. I agree.
Glad I didn't give up on it. But then I hardly ever do. I tend to read to the end no matter how agonizing. Many times I find a book does improve and is worth the read.

Lynda -
Enslaved by Ducks is definitely a hoot! I've been reading it at bedtime and want to draw it out. But maybe I don't have to. Did I see there was a sequel? Will have to check that out again.

Donna -
5+ stars for cortisone! Dang! I knew there was too much pain going on! Being new at this broken shoulder thing I tried not to complain too much :p~
What a break-through. Yay!

Hi Megan!
Well.... there is a little (very little) emphasis on hope in Boo's book. She has written a very realistic account and, for sure, it's all about violence, meaningless death, corruption, poverty, etc. It's not a feel-good book.
I don't think this book will change your negative perceptions at all. Frankly, I believe if there is any real hope for India it is going to be a long time coming.

"Is this book positive, hopeful and full of the wonders of positive human relationships?"
Honestly? No. I think it is probably all you have heard about India - and more. One hopes that recognizing the problems is the first step to solving them. This would seem to be the purpose of Boo's book.

Aah. OK. Thanks for letting me know. In that case as you can guess, I might leave this one. But if you hear of any books about India that are positive, hopeful and full of the wonders of positive human relationships....will you let me know?
Thanks! (I knew I could count on you)

Sure thing!

188: all of them have been ripped off, some in quite elaborate ways
Huh. Not my experience at all.

191: But if you hear of any books about India that are positive, hopeful and full of the wonders of positive human relationships....will you let me know?
There are some 75ers in India who might have ideas if you post a message asking.

187: I rate by genre as well Cee. Great minds think alike ya know! :)

I'm planning to read the latest Flavia when I can check it out of the library. It hasn't arrived yet.

Katherine -
While slum life is vividly portrayed in many books, it's hard to know what percentage of the population is highlighted. America has slums too. We are not without our own problems.
But even a relatively small percentage living in this kind of hell is very discouraging. Wish I knew of the kind of book Megan is looking for.

Tina -
Thanks - good to hear you say that. Ya know... about the great minds. lol

Lori -
When it comes in - nab it! I think it comes out in Feb??? So it should be there relatively soon.
I know. No urgent rush. Plenty of other books to read. Right?

>193 qebo: I dont mean to dis India, its my aim to read some uplifting literature about the country, I just need to find some now.
Im glad you had good experiences there, I haven't been so take my ideas from what Ive seen/read/heard about it.

Hi Cee, you and me are still tapping away on the old computer I see :) I have been away and come back, just so's you know I havent been obsessively glued to the screen this whole time!

I know a lot of people in the group enjoy the Flavia books, but I read the first two and just do not care to continue with that series. I am glad you found the fourth book so good, Claudia!

Have a happy, pain-free weekend!

Ah....someone else who agrees with me about Flavia....I cannot stand those books, but then obviously what makes LT so much fun is that other people love them.

Yep.. There is a sequel. Not quite as good imo... but I have it among my keepers...
Have you read Winging It: A Memoir of Caring for a Vengeful Parrot Who's Determined to Kill Me by Jenny Gardiner ? Also good. How was dinner?

Hi Cee! Glad to see that your cortisone shot worked!! Yay to being pain free!

I'm glad that you found the latest Flavia book to a good read! I've read the first two and have the next two sitting here waiting their turn to be read

Megan -
I know. I leave my computer on and periodically jump on - then I'm off again. As much as I crave structure, I totally resist it! lol RL can take up huge chunks of my time or drop me off for a long spell or two. It's all good.

Stasia -
There is no rhyme or reason to why I like Flavia books... but I find them lots of fun. It's mostly Flavia's character I love. The mysteries are secondary. And they are easy reads.

Tina -
I'm sure there are many who are not enamored of Flavia. I do think this last book is pulling her character together - but who can explain why certain books appeal to us? I also love the series "The Cat Who..." by Braun. Have no idea why since they are so very silly in many respects. lol

Kath -
Have not read Vengeful Parrot - had not heard of it. Sounds like parrots bite a lot and are messy pets??? Or maybe that is just because 'enslaved' Bob Tarte just lets them rule over him. Don't know much about parrots.

Dinner was pizza - Athenian Veggie gourmet. YUM. Washed down with a couple merlots - perfect ;-) Made me kinda sleepy. No problem.

Chelle -
Shoulder still in 'cortisone heaven' ;-)
Reading other reviews of Flavia's 5th book (not out yet), it looks like many think it is the best yet. I flew right thru it. Made me feel like a speed reader - lol ! Good for the ego.
Are you packing yet?

I'm almost 150 posts behind, so just skimming . . . but so glad that the cortisone shot helped you! Also, I'm one very lucky with MIL -- I feel bad for those of you who have had bad experiences with MILs.

A co-worker has been raving about behind the beautiful forevers. Perhaps I'll try it. Great review.

Hi Terri,
Not to worry about being 'behind'. No such thing here. This is not a race.
You are welcome anytime and I am always happy when others keep some time for themselves :-)
Prime objectives for January - read and stay well!

Okay, now it's me seeing all of the blue, Cee! Oh so you just read Speaking from Among the Bones! I am so enjoying my copy too!

Cee, I'm not much of a cook or even a foodie, but I must tell you I went to a Tim Horton's - common in Canada - yesterday and had their Creamy Chicken Rotini Soup - filled with yummy mushrooms! Yum!!!

You put it so well, and it is a comfort to remember that it isn't a race..
We all need to remember that... we all agree that is the case with books... but, we have to remember that
regarding the threads, too.

So.. Now that you have me convinced that I have to read the flavia books.. what are your plans for the day?

#5 The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (5 BIG stars)



Astonishngly beautiful! A book of fiction so real it took up residence in my heart/brain/soul and has no intention of moving out. More than love, pain, hope, sadness, and family/friend relationships, this story takes flight into the infinite universe without answers.

I think many might find this a heartbreaking read. Emotional - but not depressing (to me).

Yay! The Fault in Our Stars is great. Really glad to hear you had such a strong, positive reaction. I didn't find it depressing either; emotional, yes.

Deb -
We have a Tim Horton's nearby (sorta) and I love their soup. Mom and I stopped there a couple weeks ago for a quick tasty lunch and were not disappointed.
Sorry about all the blue. I can lend you my blue-filtering glasses for your reading comfort ;-)

Kath -
Some of us need to relax a little! No race for # of books read, # of posts, or # of threads. Let's keep it fun, easy, and interesting :-)
I do, however, get a tiny bit jealous that many readers are so much more efficient at knocking off the books - only because I want to be like them and make more progress through my TBR stack. Part of my journey to accept myself for who I am, I guess.

Joe -
Finished that book around midnight last night and had a hard time getting to sleep after. So much to think about and no chance of feeling sleepy for about an hour or two.
Green also did a nice job of describing Holland and brought back many good memories for me. Sometimes I need the nudge of a good writer to remember the details of locked away memories.

Hi Claudia! Hit by The Fault in Our Stars. Not by Flavia. I read the first & liked it for what it was, but don't need to read more.

Claudia- I'm so glad you loved The Fault in Our Stars! And 5 stars too! I was crazy about it too and it was a top read for me, from last year. You are on a nice roll. How do you hear about all these awesome books? Crystal ball? Tea leaves?

Hi Ellen -
Yeah I feel that way about some book series too. I know Flavia is not a fav for many. I think I just like that she's able to pick herself up by the bootstraps and bravely/fearlessly walk her own path. She needs a lot of love which she does not get very often - and is nevertheless a strong character. She's not as much of a brat in the latest book. Growing up, I fear.

Oh Mark -
There's this really cool website called LibraryThing. Full of avid readers and lots of great book recs! You should check it out! LOL

*******************
Today - updating the GHS membership database. I'm a bit behind. Need to get ready for another TIDE.

Started reading Wolf Hall. Only got a chapter read so far. Poor Cromwell... nasty father!

Regarding brushing Shelties, I try to stay on top of it during the winter because they have two coats of fur. Lilly is much better at sitting still than Simon was.

Simon would see the brush and run for Will to protect him.

Is Loki better these days?

I hope you enjoy Wolf Hall, Cee.

#6 Enslaved by Ducks by Bob Tarte (3.75 stars)



If you are crazy about animals (and I do mean crazy), you will enjoy this humorous book. Building a life around a menagerie of unusual animals as pets, Tarte, fence builder extraordiaire shares his journey of learning how to live intimately with animals most of us will never consider letting in our home. The humor is in his writing, turns of phrase, and vulnerability. Oh yes. You can learn many things from animals.

Bunnies, turkeys, ducks, geese, parrots, cats, parakeets, doves, a variety of veterinarians - and a wife who must rescue animals. Tarte has it all!

Hi Linda,
Strangely, Loki likes to be brushed if only to get a treat. I guess that is not so strange. Loki seems to be doing fine as long as we don't vary his diet from the ID. At all.

Ellen -
Only on CHapter 3 - but so far so good on Wolf Hall. Got a long way to go....

Cee, that book had me at the title! Something about "Enslaved by Ducks" just cracked me up.

215: Cee, I think I am going to like the crazy duck man and his book! I had a pet chipmunk and a pet chicken as a kid. The chicken came from the local 5 & 10 cent store. Remember those? Gina was blue (at first anyway) and had quite a personality. She went to a happy home with the egg man (at least that's what my mother told me!) when we moved from Kentucky to Texas. Chippy went to live with a friend at the same time. At least our Boxer got to move with us!

Hi Claudia- I may be the last person on earth to read Wolf Hall. And I think I am well-read. Bah! I have it stored on audio, maybe I can finally book-horn it in.
Hope you enjoy it.

Glad you liked the duck book...me, too!

Hi Cee, I have the first Flavia book sitting on my shelf. I wonder when I'll ever read it? Glad to hear the cortisone is working for you. Keep your fingers crossed.

Off to work this morning.. did you get a lot of snow? We got an inch or so.. nothing fancy, but some freezing rain came along first.. ugh!

Hi All! Beautiful snowy day here - but the temp is slowly rising. I thought they said arctic cold for today! I don't consider 32F arctic. *sigh*

Ellen - The author of Enslaved by Ducks seems to be enslaved by his entire life - but admits he loves it despite all.

Donna -
I call every chipmunk in our yard "Chippy". Original, huh? They are some cute though! My Mom bought my sister a baby chick one Easter (after being totally worn down with unbearable pleading), but the poor thing didn't last long. No one really knew how to care for it. My sister told Mom that if it did not have a companion, it would "peep" itself to death. Perhaps that's what happened. Mom refused to listen to that line.

Mark -
Somehow I doubt you will be the 'last person on earth' to read Wolf Hall after all. Don't remember what I read that caused me to be intimidated by the thought of tackling it - but so far, it's not bad at all. Now that I said that I will probably get lost in all that English history.

Kath -
Thanks for recommending the duck book to me! I bought it when you did (a long time ago...) and then it sat on my shelf patiently .... It was a good one! Came at a time I needed some comic relief.
See? Even if you buy books and don't get to them right away, they DO become important and you NEED to have them on hand. I actually love having a lot of books I haven't read yet that I know are good. So when it's time to pick a new one I have a choice. The library is too inconvenient - too far away, limited hours.
DRAT the snow - only a couple inches. Where is that arctic front, huh? huh? huh?

Bonnie -
I think the Flavia book would be good summer reading for you? I just love that little squirt.
And believe me, I have a lot of stuff crossed re the long-term efficacy of the corisone :-}

Hi Cee!

Enslaved by Ducks I have waiting
Kath mentioned that one to me :)

Flavia- I want to read her!

I haven't read Wolf Hall yet Mark! It's on my bookshelf just waiting for the right time :)

Count me as another who has not yet read Wolf Hall. Shameful, I know! :)

I actually love having a lot of books I haven't read yet that I know are good. So when it's time to pick a new one I have a choice. I agree Cee. Ducks in on my keeper shelf. It made my very brutal cut.
I'm tired... Dan's sick and it is getting colder by the minute!! Ugh! I have Wolf Hall on my shelf, too.

I would also endorse yours and Kath's comment about the knowledge of coming books to enjoy. As one of the slightly larger, ahem, TBR piles (though not the biggest indeed) I have more to look forward to than most!

So happy to see that you had a nice snowy day, Cee. Now if only an artic blast would come your way.
I've added Enslaved by Ducks to wishlist and who could resist the 5 big stars book The Fault in our Stars. Hope tomorrow is another snow angel day for you.

Snow is good.. if the timing is right and the power stays on...

How was your yesterday? Even if it was wonderful, I hope today is better...
What are you reading now? I have nothing going.. hope to read tomorrow.. I know I won't today.
Work, then home to cook and clean up and ( Dan is sick ) plan to watch Grey's Anatomy. Sounds amazing doesn't it?

Hi All!
Sunny day outside - but unsettled inside. Loki unswallowed every bit of his breakfast this morning shortly after eating it. Oh, please... not this again :(

For Kindle owners: The Kindle Deal of the Day is Breaking Night by Liz Murray for $1.99. This was an ER book that I loved and I highly recommend it. It's quite a story and has a high rating by others too.

Currently reading:
Wolf Hall
The Hidden Life of Deer
Both great books :-)

Hi Kara!
Don't you wish people would wait as patiently as books?

Tina -
Not shameful at all. You can't read every book right now. I will say though, Wolf Hall is turning out to be way more interesting than I expected.

Kath -
Sorry about the added burden of a sick husband :(
Yesterday was one of those days - everytime I looked out the window I was captured by the beauty of a snowy day. But, I have to say, it did not inspire me to do anything productive. So, it was a dreamy restful day. I did spend some time online looking for a vacation idea ;-) Nothing yet.

Paul -
You just never know what book you will want to read - so, having an extensive choice is the way to go!

Lynda -
Ah. She understands!
Arctic cold moving in today :-)

Morning Cee, I saw Breaking Night on the deal this morning and I was tempted to purchase it but was sceptical. NOW, that you've given it a good word, I'll go ahead and do my 1 clicking. Have a good day!

I know what you mean, Lynda. Hard to tell on those deals what is good and not so much. I hate to be taken by a piece of crap - but even more, I hate to miss a good, cheap read!

Good day to you, too!

Cee, I went back to read your review of Breaking Night before I clicked on "Buy Now with 1 Click". I remember thinking that this would be a good group read for my church circle, as we help with meals for the homeless teens in our community. I'm glad the author was able to break the cycle.

I hope Loki is feeling better. My husband left early for Dallas this morning before I got up. From the strange sounds I'm hearing, I'm thinking Lucky may have gotten two breakfasts. He's not complaining!

Oh, good! Another reader for Breaking Night. Memorable - even to me of little memory. Murray did NOT have an easy time of it.

You don't call him Lucky for nothing! 2 breakfasts? Cool!

Loki is nervously wandering around the house looking for a good place to get comfy - or suffer - or hide? Poor thing - all curled up and pathetic. This is the same behavior he exhibited when he was so sick a couple months ago. I feel so bad for him if he is about to go through another episode.

He barked at one growly truck going by today. Everything else slipped by w/o harrassment. Sad.
The problem is we never got a diagnosis other than "something he ate". NOT! :PP~~ So we might have to bring him to another vet (specialist?) about an hour away. He hates riding anywhere in the car! Swell!

212/219 Cee and Mark- I plan to read Wolf Hall this year sometime. Even though its out of my genre comfort zone, I will do it! (its on my list of 38 things to do before I turn 38, so I have to)

Poor Loki, sounds under the weather :(

Sorry to hear about Loki, Cee. I just posted my first 5 star review and it's for one of the books you sent me through Mark's Christmas Swap. My Family and Other Animals is excellent and I highly recommend it.

I haven't read Wolf Hall either! Guilty! Glad that you are enjoying it. Sorry that Loki is feeling under the weather. Our dog, Daisy, is getting extremely fussy with her eating. I have to sit beside her and pat her and even so , she drops bits on the lino -and will decide in the midst of her meal that she has had enough - and then will go back 1/2 hour later. Drives me crazy!!!! She is so spoiled!

Way behind, but at least I found you again!! Popping back up to the top of your thread.

Can't think when I last stopped in.... did I say I'm so glad you are loving The Hidden Life of Deer? I'm glad we had our big thaw just now - it makes all the difference for our local population when they get a respite from trudging through drifts and some warmth for a week.

Oh no no no. Poor Loki. Poor Cee. How is he doing?
How are you doing? This is very unwelcome news...
Rescue Remedy helped me with Duncan's dread of travel.
It was similar, we had over an hour to travel to see his specialist..
and it helped a great deal. You can use it every few minutes until calm sets in.

I hate it when they are sick. Keep me posted.
hugs to you and to Loki

My little boy doggie is toying with my emotions!
Better today - only cautiously optimistic.

Megan -
English history is not my forte - but I have to admit Mantel's treatment makes it interesting. There have been some comments about how hard it is to read due to her style of referring to everyone as "he" and you're never sure who's she's talking about. But it becomes obvious very quickly and I am having no trouble with that. Also, there is a list of characters in the front which helps a lot since these are not historical figures with which I am familiar.

Judy -
Oh, I'm very glad to hear you liked My Family and Other Animals that much :-) That's one I want to read someday too. Will have to look up your review... 5 stars - cool!

Deb -
Oh, yeah. Daisy sounds spoiled to me ;-) I imagine she's cute enough to get away with it. Will go see if you have pictures.
I'm sure if Loki did not always scoff up all his food at once, I'd be like you. I do love the way my cat eats though... on her own, whenever she wants, whatever amount she wants, always consistent. She does not hang around wimpering and impatient at "meal time" trying to get me to dish it out early... like someone else I know.

Hi Kim!
Nice to see you... Thanks for stopping by. Pop in anytime ;-)

Lucy -
I am SO loving The Hidden Life of Deer. I especially love her assessments of the buzz lines hunters and wardens use. She makes a lot more sense and I find myself agreeing instinctively with her observations. With the exception of bears, we have all the same wildlife around here so I feel like I am reading about my own back yard.
I do feel nervous when we have winters with unrelenting snow cover. So, I too am happy about the January thaw. Gives the deer (and others) a reprieve from the natural hardships.

Kath -
OK. Rescue Remedy. Got it. Hope I don't need it.
I can't find the name of the specialist you mentioned to me earlier (in Portland). Can you please tell me one more time? Sorry. I need to write it in a place it won't get misplaced.

Loki today - so far, so good. But... we just can't seem to get this behind us completely. Drat! Just when I start thinking maybe it's over - wham! This bodes ill for us ever going on vacation again. I think Loki noticed me online the other night looking for a get-away and is giving me a warning. *heavy sigh*

Sunny blue skies and ccccccold today.
Thank you weather goddess ;-)

Update on Loki?? How are things?

Nevermind -- I see 'cautiously optimistic' now. Just a quick stop in to check on you and Loki. I hope things improve dramatically!

Noble, Sarah J DVM
http://portlandvetspecialists.com/
Portland Veterinary Specialist
2255 Congress Street

She is the best vet in the world, bar none.. imo.
Tell her I said so :) should you ever have occasion to meet her..
although I do fervently hope it is never necessary!

I keep a few things stashed on my profile here if I don't want to forget.....

Glad Loki is doing better today.

Oh, yeah. Thanks!
I now have this saved almost everywhere!
I will also make this site a fav.
Hope I never have to use it - but, now I'm prepared.