Whisper1(Linda) Thread #1 of 2014

Here we go. It is hard to believe that we began in 2008 and it is time to start anew. While I won't be reading posts until the new year begins, I'm here to say I look forward to a new year.

I'm first, weeeee!!!!!

Hi, Linda. Leaving a star!

Dear Linda - Wouldn't be the same without you my dear. I'll be following as always.

I'm looking forward to the new year with you, Linda!

Hoping your first day of 2014 is a low-pain one!

Smooches, Linda. Can't wait to see what you'll be reading in 2014 and I'm sending wishes for a much better year for you in terms of pain control.

Hi Linda!

Hello Linda, I'll try and follow again this year. Happy Reading!

Hi Linda, Glad to see you started your thread for 2014.. :) I have been looking for them off an on so I don't lose anyone. You are Starred :)

Hi Linda!

Hello, Linda! A shiny star for you!

Dropping a star for reading in 2014!

Happy New Year, Linda! I'm dropping some breadcrumbs so I can find you again when official posting commences.

Starred. Looking forward to a great LT year, Linda!

Happy new year, darling!

Hello, Linda! I hope you are enjoying the holiday break.

Happy New Year Linda :)

Lovely Linda!! Here to leave my star!

Hi Linda! I almost didn't realize your thread was up. Lovely, shiny new thread and year. :)

Got you starred, Linda!

Happy New Year Linda!! Look forward to watching your reading this year. I hope you are doing well and not in pain.

.

Happy New Year, and Happy New Thread !

Happy New Year, Linda!

Happy New Year Linda! I just left you best wishes on your last thread of 2013, but just now found you here. Wishing you all the very best sweet lady. xx

Dear Linda - If the group has a heartbeat it is centred somewhere close to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Wishing a wonderful 2014 to you and yours, my dear. Thank you for being such a good friend to so many in the group. xx

Happy New Year Linda! Hope you have a great 2014.

Happy New Year Linda! Hope you have a great 2014!

A very happy New Year to you and Will, Linda!

Happy New Year, Linda! I'm resolving to be more active on LT this year, and I can't wait to catch up with you & see all of your wonderful reads.

Happy, healthy, New Year to you, Linda! I hope you have a warm, cozy, healing winter. With lots of beautifully-illustrated books!

Happy New Year to all. Thanks ever so much for stopping by. I look forward to 2014 with much anticipation.

As I did in the 2013 threads, my book totals were broken into number of illustrated books read and number of non-illustrated books. As someone who appreciates art, I've recently discovered the sheer beauty of children's illustrated books.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #1 FOR 2014


All the Places To Love by Patricia MacLachlan

This is an author who touches the heart with both her illustrated and non-illustrated books.

This is a simple, delightful tale of life in the country. Told from the perspective of young Eli, we are drawn into the beauty of the earth and importance of family. This is a calming book that hearkened to a time when life provided the opportunity to stop and enjoy nature.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #2 IN 2014


The First Dog by Jan Brett

While not one of my favorite of her books, still, I could not help but enjoy and remain in awe of the talent of this incredible writer and illustrator.

Set in prehistoric times, this is the tale of the adventure of Kip the cave boy who while traveling home, is followed by a Paleowolf who travels with him and saves him from danger. In search of food, the Paleowolf patiently waits until the boy will share. Finally, knowing how many times he is saved, he shares and calls his friend dog.

The drawings are creative as always.

Happy New Year, Linda! I hope you have a perfectly healthy year ahead of you. Fingers crossed.

Thanks Mark. I confess that because this recovery is so much more painful than the others, there are days when I wish I would not have done this. But, thanks to you and my other friends on LT, I'll pull through and the sun will shine.

We are slated to get nasty weather these next days. I hope the same is not for you. I think of how difficult it must be for you delivering mail slip, sliding around.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #3 IN 2014


Trouble With Trolls by Jan Brett

This is a book that made me smile. On her trek over the mountain to visit her cousin, young Treva had trouble with trolls. The nasty critters have dreamed of owning a dog. When they spied Treva and her dog, they just had to have her animal.

Devising sneaky ways to grab Tuffi, increasingly Treva is successful in getting back her dog. When this game persists, cleaver Treva intelligently develops a plan to fool these snarky, snaggly trolls.

Hang in there, Linda! I know how difficult recovery can be. Sending lots of love your way!

Thanks for posting the images from your picture book reads... brings me back to my childhood.

We are supposed to be getting a big blizzard here tomorrow, probably the same one heading your way. Stay warm and safe!

Love all the children's books you are reading.

Hi Marcia

It is wonderful to see you in the 75 challenge group again. I've missed you. I believe your area is slated for more snow, ice than predicted here. Stay warm and safe...

Lori...Thanks, and Happy New Year to you.

Happy New Year!

Linda, I'm glad you've discovered the pleasure of illustrated children's books. I've always been a huge fan of illustration and always glad to see others enjoying it too. Nice to see you posting images too of course! Trouble With Trolls looks like a lot of fun. I'll try and see if they have it at the well-stocked children's section at the library.

eta: They do! :-)

Hi Linda - Happy New Year - thanks for sharing those beautiful Children's books illustrations. Specially like the art in Trouble With Trolls. Hope you'll have a great reading year.

Happy New Year, Linda! Trouble with Trolls would be one for me, I love the illustrations.

Hello to all. I think this is going to be another wonderful 75 challenge group year of reading.

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #1


After the Wreck , I Picked Myself Up, Spread My Wings and Flew Away b Joyce Carol Oates

Drat, just when I mentioned this possibility to a few LT friends, I read more and regretted my foolishness.

What is there about this author that clearly wants to drag her stories into the ever darkest abyss?

Jenna is 15 and very close to her mother. Unfortunately on a sunny day while driving over the Tapanzee bridge, Jenna sees an object, commands her mother to stop and perhaps grabs the wheel, causing the car to swerve into the oncoming lane right into a truck.

Neither the driver of the truck or Jenna's mother survive. Badly broken, the story begins with Jenna in the ICU trying to make sense of just what happened and wondering if she was responsible for the death of two people.

Her father is a first class jerk who left the family years before, ran off with a younger babe and never will win the father of the year award. He is portrayed as someone who could look at the broken body of his daughter and decide to try to physically abuse her? After months of pain, Jenna leaves the hospital to live with a beloved Aunt and her caring husband.

A new school, new mother and father figure, two young cousins, , a new town, the loss of a beloved mother wherein Jenna blames herself and is supremely withdrawn, and no one gets therapy for this kid until she hangs with the wrong kid and has a wicked overdose on drugs?

Oates portrays the surrogate family as a wonderful, caring, perhaps over the top in acceptance. Yet why then depict them as slow to get help for her? I liked the beginning of the book and Jenna's admirable struggles to climb out of the wreck of her body and start a new.

Then, mid way through the ending, I grew to dislike Jenna and dislike Oates' writing.

Everything seemed plastic and over the top. It is obvious Oates struggled with YA genre.

No Stars for this one.

Okay, as always, beautiful illustrations here. Thank you for going to so much trouble for us. I have a question though.. >34 Whisper1: has a pic of an open book, two hands and illustrations. How did you do that?

No stars for Jenna? Well done!

Kath, When I posted the image, I didn't notice the hands. Actually what I do regarding all illustrated books is in google search I put the name of the book, author and images, For example:

The Trouble With Trolls, Brett, Images
The I copy them to my thread.
Make sense?

Hi Linda, and Happy New Year. Gentle hugs and good wishes from Michigan. :)

Hi Linda

Happy New Year! Imam glad you are still enjoying Jan Brett. I like Truble with Trolls. Owen is just getting into Brett's books. We started with some Christmas ones and I hope to introduce the full length The Mitten soon.

Love the Troll children's book! :)

ahhhh I see.. I pictured you scanning away... I don't know why I didn't think of google...
:) I'm glad you did though, because I love browsing your beautiful thread !

Howdy Linda, Wow! a no star read for Oates! Truthfully, I have never completed a book written by her and how she could have taken a character (Jenna) that you had sympathized with into dislike is really quite a feat of writing. Do you think that was her intent?

Hi Linda, I wanted to wish you a happy new year before I lose your thread :)

Dear Linda - Last year we were labelled as part of the axis of evil by a dear but misguided fellow and I recall you were let off on the technicality of being an all round good egg whilst I was never pardoned. I'll be interested to see how many books you add this year my dear. I intend to cut down, but then again I say that most years!

Have a lovely weekend on the slow but hopefully sure and steady road to full recovery. xx

Oates is not one of my favorites, either. Plastic and over the top sums her up perfectly, I think.

Linda, I hope this year brings you lessening pain as each day passes. I look forward to visiting your thread for the beautiful illustrations and thoughtful reviews.

My mom is a huge Jan Brett fan and I love them as well. Thanks for taking one for the team with the JCO book...I will steer clear of that one!

Joyce Carol Oates is the answer to, like, half the questions in Book Lovers Trivial Pursuit.

And that basically sums up my experience with her as a writer.

Thanks for taking one for the team, dear!

I need that version of Trivial Pursuit!

Hello to all!!!! I look forward to checking your threads and keeping up to date with the books you are reading and your thoughts re. them.

Lynda, I'm never really sure what JKO mission is. This is not the first book of hers that took a steep spiral at the end. I stopped reading Stephen King for that same reason. His 400 page tombes seemed to ramble into a mish mash of unfocused weirdness.

I think this is the last of Joyce Carol Oates that I'll read.

Paul, home recovering these last two months with no stress of the craziness of academia, I realize in full just how out of control this book accumulating is.

I'm going to try not to buy more than I read, and to give away copies from my collections after I've read them...Four days into the New Year and no purchases...But, that is only because we have wicked cold snow and temps and for the most part, we are staying home.

Good luck to both of us. I believe we are incurable, but let's give it a try. I hope you have the opportunity to meet Richard. He is a lovely, lovely person.

Moving has caused a massive purge of books, I tell myself I will never read this again as I pile them up, but I can't stop buying books - I need a 12 step program.

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #2


How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff

This 2005 Michael Printz award winner, is thought provoking.

When 15 year old Daisy is shipped to the English countryside from New York City, by her father and father's new wife, she readily adapts to the slow paced life.

Allowing her four cousins to practically raise themselves, fearing a war may break out in the not-too-distant future, her Aunt flies to Oslo on a peace- keeping mission.

Originally the setting is idyllic with days to swim, to roam, to eat what and when they want, and with no parental guidance, the children fend for themselves in a quiet, dream-like existence. With no rules in place, Daisy and her cousin Edmond develop an intense sexual relationship.

Rapidly, their lives and the world changes as World War III occurs. With no communication from the outside and only snippets of news from townsfolk, the children believe they will not be impacted.

All to soon, authorities invade and take over the farm. As the children are transported to various rural areas, inevitably they are separated.

Survival is intensely difficult. With no food, power or communication, the children roam in absolute fear.

The enemy is not identified, resulting in terror, fearing all.

This is a story of survival in an environment of confusion and chaos.

Linda> it sounds like a heart-wrenching plot.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #4

By Jacqueline Woodson
This is the Rope: A Story From the Great Migration by Jacqueline Woodson

with illustrations of James Ransome

Using a simple, strong item of rope, the author creates a story of hope, of love and reflection.
The incredible images of Ransome and the poetically written words of Woodson reflect a heritage rich in beauty and strong in love.

Known as the great migration, during the time span of 1900-1970, approximately six million African Americans left the southern parts of America, traveling to the north in the hope of better, more just life with more opportunity.

The rope is used to affix to a tree to enable a child to swing high in the sky

Years later, the rope is also used to tie objects to the family vehicle as it travels up north.

This same rope is used to hang baby clothes,
to pull a duck toy,

to offer as an object to play hopscotch with neighbors that are new, and, then again, later to be used again to tie objects in the trunk of a car that will carry the grown child to college, and to use to string a sign during a picnic, proudly proclaiming "We Are All Family!"

Hi Linda!
Hope you are well and staying warm.
The illustrated books are so beautiful. I miss having kids book around. I buy them when the grands come to visit but they always wind up taking them home... with blessings.

Smushy hugs for Lilly!

looking forward to a slow reading year....many RL issues blowing in the wind. But I do intend to stop by and lurk regularly because your lovely thoughts and posts always bring me something positive. I do wish you a year of increasing good health and loads of happies with Will and the grands.

Dropping my star on you....

Linda - I am also planning on giving away a lot of books this year. xx

Hi Linda! I've found and starred you. I love seeing the beautiful childrens books here. Jan Brett is one of my favorites.

This is the Rope sounds lovely, poignant. How are you feeling today?
hugs

Morning Cee, Tina, Paul, Kathy and Kath

It is cold, cold, cold. Our elderly neighbor called to say she has cabin fever. If it warms, we will take her to Barnes and Noble today -- one of her favorite places to visit. She is an avid reader, always makes us laugh, and she and her husband regal us with such wonderful stories of days gone by. We love them dearly.

Kath, always kind and sensitive. It is a long and difficult recovery. Gradually I'm better, then there is there are days of wham, intensive pain. I so look forward to being finished with all this. Return to work date is tentatively set for Feb. 2. I'll see what the surgeon says on Jan. 10th.

I wish you all a lovely day.

Cute trolls, especially at the top of the hill.
This is the Rope is a nice concept for a kid to keep in mind.
Sorry for the long and difficult recovery, but I hope it is indeed recovery.

62: That one has been on the TBR pile for awhile now and I think I read somewhere they made it into a movie? I could be making that up though... :)

Hi Katherine. My recovery brought a blessing. To weary to read large books, and as someone who appreciates art...I cannot make a straight line with a ruler....I began to appreciate children's illustrated books. Actually, I have Brenda (BrenPike) to thank. During the Philadelphia meet up we visited the Rosenbach museum. Seeing the wonderful Maurice Sendak originals on the walls, I went on a quest to read all his illustrated books. This then paved a path to other wonderful artists and authors.

Have you visited this museum?
http://www.rosenbach.org/learn/collections/maurice-sendak-collection

Hi Marie. I'm so glad you stopped by. Yes, here is what I found regarding the movie review:

http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/how-i-live-now-2013

73: Have you visited this museum?
Huh. No, I haven't. Would've been easily accessible when I lived in Philadelphia, if I'd been aware of it.

Happy New Year Linda! I've not been around much lately, but am hoping for a more active year. I love all the illustrated books on your threads and will try to keep up.

Just stopping in and being wowed once more by the illustrations you've shared, Linda. I love the ones from Trouble with Trolls.

Hoping you have a lovely Sunday, Linda!

I can't believe it's taken me this long to find you Linda. JCO is known for her dark, depressing tomes and she's very prolific. I've read quite a few of them but I have to be in the right frame of mind. I'd like to get to her Blonde this year.

I hope 2014 brings you less pain and more peace.

Hi Linda, I'm arriving a little late, but I have now placed my star and I'm looking forward to following along on your thread again this year.

Stopping in to catch up and see how you are feeling. My kids loved all of the Jan Brett books - those illustrations are just so gorgeous. And This is the Rope looks like a winner. Have you read any Patricia Pollaco? Those were books that we read over and over again when the kids were small.

Dear Linda, I am finally back in San Diego and trying to catch up on threads. The Trouble with Trolls is the Brett book I used to own at school. Have you ever read Knots on a Counting Rope by Bill Martin? Very different style of illustration, but well worth while.

>73 Whisper1: - When I went to visit my sister in Portland ME last October, the public library there had an exhibit of Maurice Sendak illustrations. I loved it! His imagination was just spectacular.

I love the library in Portland. My trip to visit her in Christmas 2012 included a trip to the library to see an exhibit of Edward Gorey illustrations. I'm so impressed that they get these exhibits in and host them free for the public!

Hello and happy Sunday evening.

Mamie, I haven't hear of Patricia Pollaco, but, I'm hoping Will will agree to take me for a short trip to the library tomorrow and then I'll check out some of her books.

Roni, I haven't heard of Knots on a Counting Rope by Bill Martin. I'll need Will to help carry the heavy box of illustrated books I hope to check out of the library.

It is lovely to know that Portland houses the most photographed light house, and a wonderful library. Maurice Sendak's illustrations are incredible. He was quite a curmudgeon in his later years. And, in fact, did not particularly like children.

Oh, are you in for a treat! Get Thank you, Mr. Falker if they have it. All of her books are good, but I especially love that one and let's see...The Keeping Quilt, Mr. Lincoln's Way, Christmas Tapestry, An Orange for Frankie...you get the idea.

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #3


After the Goat Man by Betsy Byars

Walking past a book case in the upstairs hallway, I picked this off the shelf, and I'm glad I did.

Filled with compassion and wonderful writing, this is the story of three young children who change as a result of the happenstance meeting. Figgy shows up while Ada and Harold are playing Monopoly on the porch. Never hearing of Monopoly before, Figgy talks himself into the game and loses big time, but for him, the excitement of meeting two who actually want to play with him is all he needs to be happy.

Dirty, disheveled, face downward and carrying a lucky rabbits foot, Figgy is a character indeed.
Living with his grandfather in a newer section of town where those whose houses were torn down for a super highway to run through the older sections, Figgy's grandfather stubbornly defends his right to remain in the house he built so long ago.

With the moniker of Goat man, Figgy's grandfather is well known as the trouble making curmudgeon whose face is plastered on front page news articles.

Sullen, depressed, Goat man leaves his prefabricated hand out and travels right back to his cabin. Remaining there, Figgy is left to fend for himself.

Grossly overweight and unable to control his eating, Harold has sad memories of the cruelty at the hands of school mates. When he and Ada help Figgy find his grandfather, an accident occurs and bulky, grossly out-of-shape Harold must run quickly to find Figgy's grandfather. Each step is filled with self doubt and the painful voices of those who were mean. If Harold can save Figgy's life, he must reach inside to overcome his fear.

This Newbery award winning author manages to fill 126 pages with a beautiful story of bravery, love and loyalty.

There were descriptions that brought tears to my eyes. What a wonderful read for a cold, wet winter Sunday.

Anne...So good to see you here!

Bonnie, I read Blonde by Joyce Carol Oates. It was one of her better books!

Judy, Always a pleasure!

Julia, Happy Sunday evening to you!!

Caro, I'm thinking of you, especially when I hear that you had so much snow and ice in your area!

Mamie, I searched and found that the main library in our area has many of those you listed. I'm going to have fun at the library tomorrow!!! Thanks.

Oh, good! And you're welcome!

Mamie:

Isn't it so wonderful to remember times of reading to your children!!!! I smile when I visit my daughter in Ohio and see all the lovely children's books, many of which were hers when she was a wee little girl. I saw her book of Strawberry cupcake girl. I smiled and smiled. And, I always enjoy the Golden Books. Looking at the price tag is a clear indicator of how old they are. Some were .25.

Happy New Year Linda. . . Just catching up.
I predict you will love Patricia Pollaco. Not only are the illustrations terrific, the stories are heart-warming and memorable.
As always, wishing you well in your battle :)

Gentle hugs ((((Linda))))!! I'm sorry you didn't like the Oates.... the only one of hers I've ever read didn't sit very well with me either, and I haven't returned to her since. I do, however, have one more of hers sitting on a shelf that perhaps I shall read one day, but it doesn't sing to me. ;)

Sending you love and good thoughts and warm wishes (like to stay warm, cause honey I'm freezing down here in GA, I can't imagine how cold you are!!!).

Brenda

I smile thinking of the joy that baby Oliver brings to you and your family. As mentioned above to Katherine, I have you to thank for my fascination with children's illustrated books! Amber is also very instrumental in guiding me down this path. She notes books read to her son Charlie and for a long time I was in awe (I still am) at all the wonderful books she reads to her son.

Will took me to the library today and I was able to bring home a few of her books. I'm looking forward to reading them this week. I hope you are warm. It is slated to be one of the coldest nights in a long, long time.

Tina

Always, kind and cheerful, how lovely to see you here again. I heard that Atlanta is going to have 7 degree temps this evening, a record for sure! I hope you are warm!

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #5


Goldilocks and the Three Bears by Jan Brett

This is a beautiful adaptation of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Artistry rendered at the hands of this very talented illustrator, is filled with page after page of loveliness. I was amazed at the detail!

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #6


Mossy by Jan Brett

Creatively told, expertly illustrated, this is a story of Mossy the turtle. Living in a stream, mossy is quite content, finding love with another turtle who finds all the growth of moss and flowers on her shell, life is wonderful.

When Mossy is discovered by a young girl, life changes dramatically. Captured and placed in a museum, Mossy is well taken care of and exhibited for many to delight in.

Head down and sad, Mossy longs for her previous life. When she is returned to her natural settings, all is well to live a long and happy life.

A large painting dons the walls of the museum and Mossy is well remembered.



Highly recommended for the child in all of us!

Liked the goat man book Linda - there is hope for me yet!

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #7


Berlioz The Bear by Jan Brett

It is a wondrous journey to soak in the magnificent talent of an artist who loves nature, children, and animals. Luckily, I've only begun to read some of the many and eagerly look forward to reading more!

This particular book held my interest and I read it three times. The illustrations are beautiful beyond words.

When Berlioz the bear decides to take his wandering wagon of musical bears, he aims to win awards. Along the way, the cart is stuck in a rut. Various animals attempt to help to no avail.

Earlier, Berlioz was concerned with a buzz, buzz, buzzing sound from his bass. Much to his dismay, the buzzing sound was a bee who escapes to sting the mule who then runs and pulls the cart of of the rut. Now, Berlioz can take his vagabond travelers to the competition in time.



Highly recommended. The images I post do not do justice to holding the book, and turning the pages in awe.

Linda, love the Mossy book. . also checking out How I Live Now. *hugs*

Hi Linda!
Can't believe you've read so many books already! You are not planning to read 365 books this year..are you? :p

I love the illustrations in your thread, Linda, so beautiful!

>93 Whisper1:: I don't think I've seen a Brett book that isn't set in winter and I have to say that I think her use of the greens is just beautiful! I'll have to see if the library has that one (if we ever get out of this house again, that is - can you say Cabin Fever? Ha!).

I've read one Oates, Zombie, and it was pretty good but I doubt it would be something you'd want to read. It's from the perspective of a serial killer.

Hello to all on this incredibly bitter cold evening.

Morphy, I read Zombie awhile ago and gave it four stars.

Amber, you are right! I've been so engrossed with the marvelous illustrations of Brett, that it didn't dawn on me that the setting of the books is winter, winter, winter.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #8


Gingerbread Baby by Jan Brett

Yet another stellar art filled book by Jan Brett! I'd like to met this author and ask how long it takes to illustrate one of her books. Filled with detail, the images pop off the page. and this current read is no exception.

Matti and his mother are baking a gingerbread boy. The instructions note to bake a full eight minutes. No more! No Less! and DO NOT peek.

After four minutes Matti couldn't control himself, opening the oven and out popped a gingerbread baby instead of a gingerbread boy.



Running through the village, willy nilly, laughing all along the way and he tempts those who run after him to catch him if they can. While there are some close calls, not one animal or person succeeds.

Clever Matti makes a gingerbread house, sets it in the woods and lo and behold, gingerbread baby runs inside.



Another gem to recommended highly!!!

Linda, I love the illustrations you are posting. The artists include such detail and give the reader so much to look at. Simply wonderful and thank you for posting them for us all to enjoy.

Gingerbread Baby is a book that I bought at a garage sale the summer I was pregnant, and may in fact be the first book ever purchased for Charlie (if not, it was certainly one of the firsts), so it holds a special place in my heart. I was happy to find out that it was also one of the themed reads last month for Charlie's class!

I enjoy your illustrated posts so much, Linda. A tiny little girl in my family is destined to have many, many gorgeous books long before she's able to read them!

Beautiful, as always... thank you for posting the lovey graphics. I'm just happy to have you back and posting at all I am waiting for the day you post that you are completely pain free! hugs

I got Furry Logic yesterday. Thank you so much! I opened it up at random and got, "You'll always be my best friend...you know too much." And I laughed and shared it with MrMorphy who chuckled, too. You are so generous and kind. *hugs*

Morning Linda, just want to say I enjoy the illustrations you post. Hope the pain free days are upon you!

Oh, dear, how did I get so far behind already?

Hope you are staying warm, Linda. it certainly looks like you have been enjoying some lovely books.

Hi, Linda! Hope all is well with you. Personally, this subzero weather is making the rods in my neck ache like crazy. Anywho, continuing to love the illustrations, definitely brightens my day! Sorry you didn't like the Joyce Carol Oates. I haven't read anything by her in a few years, but I do recall that she's always been a hit or miss author for me. Oddly enough, I find her older books much better than her newer ones.

Hi, Linda! I can't believe I'm just now getting to your lovely thread.

Wishing you well!

Whenever I need some uplifting from whatever life is throwing at me, I have only to click on the thread that says Whisper1 and I'm instantly transported to a land of beauty and goodness. You are such an inspiration. Hope your New Year is brewing up to be a good one. Loved the Three Bears.

Hi Linda!

I am having trouble keeping up with the threads again! Just catching up to say I am glad you are still reading Jan Brett. Owen and I were at the library the other day, and I thought of you when we were looking at her books.

I was really bummed that I missed the Sendak exhibit in Portland. While visiting my in-laws over the holidays, my MIL got a pass for the exhibit at the New Britain, CT art museum. Owen is obsessed with Where the Wild Things Are and we all loved the exhibit. We have recently watched the cartoon version from Scholastic. It comes with 5 other books on the video, so when he saw In the Night Kitchen, he had to bring home "Mickey" from the library! I don't quite understand that book, but he likes it.

Gingerbread Baby was a favorite at our house - we still have that one in a box up in the attic. I can't even begin to count how many times we read that one!

Mossy is my favorite Brett so far. *smooch* Happy Friday!

Ack, a day ahead of myself. Thursday isn't near so much fun.

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #4


We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler

Stunned, it is difficult to write a review. Powerful, it is near impossible to write a review without spoilers. Complex, is the relationship between this "family" who include Fern a chimp raised and included in the family to be contrasted and compared with Rosemary.

Told from the perspective of Rosemary, a college student who never fits in with any one anywhere. She invites the reader to a picnic of convoluted memories, all to soon the reader feels the blanket has crumbs and the food is spoiled.

As Rosemary "starts in the middle" and slowly unfolds the story from the perspective of her life as a five year old trying to discover just what happened to her sister/chimp Fern and who was responsible for Fern's abandonment.

As I closed the book, I realized that it was one heck of a ride, but I wouldn't have purchased the ticket had I known the twists and turns of sadness and sorrow.

Hi Linda. I'm just past the halfway point in We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves and know it can't end well but I am enjoying the book. Never would have picked it up if not for LT.

Well Linda, between you, Donna, and now Pat, I really can't resist We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves any longer. I'm completely intrigued and I'm off to put it on library hold!

I hope you are well and keeping warm!

I have it on my WL and all your comments lead me to want to read it all the more

Have a wonderful weekend, Linda!

116: One of my favorites for 2013; I was reading at every idle moment to find out what happened to Fern. Completely unexpected; my mother passed it along to me and I felt obligated to give a report. Immediately afterward, I read Nim Chimpsky for a similar (and real) situation.

Not quite…..but this is often what I’ve felt like these past couple weeks…

Still lurking....no new thread yet.....Heading back to Maine this weekend, and may surface enough sometime next week to start up. Meantime, I’m slowing ear-reading We are Water by Wally Lamb. It’s so good, I may have to drug Mom so I can have about 1 ½ hours quiet to finish it.

What a coincidence! This morning on the treadmill I was listening to an episode of the podcast Literary Disco in which they were discussing an essay about a family that raises a chimp. Here's a link to the essay which originally appeared in Esquire magazine. All this to say I am very intrigued by the book We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves.

Linda I love the illustrations. They look so great on the computer. Sometimes the books that I look at don't look that good. Hope you are feeling a little better each day. Stay warm!

Hmmm, I am torn on We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves but it does sound intriguing... Oh, heck, onto the list it goes! Sending lots of hugs and healing vibes your way, my Sister-in-Chiari.

#123 Wow, Heidi, that's an amazing and distressing story that appeared in Esquire. You should definitely check out We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves.

Hi Pat, I'm very interested in your thoughts and feelings after you've read the book.

Joanne, I read the LT reviews and found only a few that didn't like the book. It is haunting to say the least.

Hi Jeff. Thanks for visiting.

Diana, Thanks for your kind words!

Katherine, I read your excellent review! You are a wonderful writer.

We Are Water is now on the TBR list. I'm so sorry that your mom has had quite a lot of things happening. What a way to start the New Year!

Heidi...Oh, my, what an article. Thanks for posting this. The before and after photos were shocking!

Hi Monica...Happy New Year!

Hi Marcia, Ours is indeed a unique bond. From articles I've read lately, it appears that more and more cases of Arnold Chiari Malformation are found. Thus, it might not be as rare as once thought. How are you feeling these days?

Pat, I imagine it is very cold where you live. How is the progress with your new house?

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #9

The Umbrella by Jan Brett

Today was a low energy day. I'm ever so glad I have more wonderful Jan Brett books to peruse.

The Umbrella is a delightful tale of Carlos who enters the forest, listening to the drip, drip, drip of the rain, he climbs high into the fig tree. Disappointed, because he saw nothing from high above, unfortunately, he did not know of the happenings inside his umbrella down below.

As the drops of rain become a small pool, a frog finds a lovely puddle to rest in, enjoying his alone time, all to soon a Toucan bird nabs a juicy fig as it falls from the tree. Making the umbrella his place to wait until more figs fall, he takes space that the frog claimed.

As the story progresses, more animals in ever increasing size, find the umbrella a unique place to rest, until the umbrella is way to crowded and overflows.

As always, the images are lush in detail.

Happy weekend, Linda! Sleep sleep sleep as it will help you heal. Sending hugs!

Hello Dear Richard! Always a spot of cheer when you are here!

Hi Linda, as sad as I am for the reason you had trouble concentrating on non-illustrated books, I am so glad you have been sharing your treasures with us. I have found many enjoyable books that Haley and I can read together. I agree that We Are Completely Beside Ourselves was quite a ride. I'm very glad that I rode with the twists and turns. I loved your review!

Happy week end to your and your significant other, Mr. Will.

ETA: That should be Dr. Will. He's a dentist, right?

Oh, I remember The Umbrella--and it is one that doesn't take place in winter, isn't it?

Hugs and smooches!

I saw The Umbrella on the shelves on Thursday while re-shelving books at the school library on Thursday. Maybe I'll sneak a peek at it this coming week...

I need The Umbrella today. It's pouring down rain!

(((Linda))) Here for a quick drop by and to leave you with some hugs and cheer!

Hope you are feeling well tonight!

Hi Donna

Thanks for your kind comments regarding my review. I found this book on your thread. I'm always curious regarding how we choose/find the books we read. How did you find this book?

Will is happily retired. We was an eye doc.

Roni, right you are! Good to see you here!

Amber, While it isn't one of my favorites, as with all her books, the illustrations are lovely!

Lori, We were most surprised to hear thunder today in the early afternoon.

Hi Tina. Thanks for your kindness!

The Umbrella is a great introduction to rain forest wildlife. We read it to the kids before we went to Costa Rica.

Hi Linda, just stopping by to wave hello and enjoy all the lovely pictures of the illustrations!

The rainforest looks especially abundant in your book Linda. I am glad Taman Negara here is less teeming with wildlife than that or I would never sleep. A tiger in the wasteland behind our home in Johor Bahru before was as close as I really want to get.

Have a lovely Sunday dear lady.

I'm just stopping by to say hi, Linda!

Happy 6th Thingaversary, my friend! You and Paul Cranswick share the day but 3 years apart. You both are in good company.

Thingaversary!!!! Hooray! Have a happy one :)
And may all sorts of good things come into your day... your week and your life......starting today!

hugs

I look forward to see if you go ahead with a Thingaversary book spree :)

Drive-by wave, Linda!

Happy Thingaversary, Linda! Here's one for your wish list (if you don't have it already): Pre-Raphaelite Cats.

I WANT IT! I already own her lovely Shakespeare Cats.

Hope you are feeling a bit better every day.

Happy Thingaversary, Linda!! I think a book spree would absolutely be in order for today!

Happy Thingaversary Linda! Whadja get???

Happy Thingaversary, Linda! So very thankful that you are here and that I have met you on the threads. Hoping that today os kind to you and full of small surprises (those are always the best kind, I think).

Happy Thingaversary!

Happy Thingaversary, dearest Linda! Today we all celebrate the occurrence that brought you into our lives.

Love the cat books Cariola shared!

ETA I forgot! I came here to ask if you have encountered Animalia yet. It's an alphabet book sine qua non, with wonderfully alliterative captions. I know your neighbor girls would have a ball finding all the items in the illustrations beginning with the page's letter.

Happy Thingaversary, Linda. You've helped make the 75ers such a warm and welcoming place for us to hang out in.

Oh, Happiest of Thingaversaries, lady!!

Happy Thingaversary, Linda!

Thanks to all. I confess that I purchased books in anticipation of my joining LT January 14, 2008. What a wonderful experience it is to be among such avid readers who and kind, sensitive and caring.

I ordered more than eight books from the former Bookcloseouts.com...now Book Outlet. It has taken me a bit of time adjusting to a different company. I so loved Bookcloseouts.

When my package arrives with the bright, shining books, I'll post them.

Thanks again to all of you!!!!

I've been hibernating since last Friday's visit to the surgeon who performed three neck fusion operations for a total of six fusions. While still in a lot of pain from multiple fusion number three, I received confirmation last week that I will definitely need yet one more surgery.

It may sound silly, but I've wondered just how many times I can post that I need yet one more surgery. I'm sick of all these surgeries and talking about it. So, I've been very hesitant to post the news for fear that I'd be perceived as needy or dramatic. Trusting that you all care, I decided to post the latest:

As always, the surgeon took a lot of time -- an hour-- to chart progress to date and then to show me xrays that indicate my neck is sloping forward. No, my chin isn't on my chest, but the xrays show a dramatic change from year - year and now month - month.

This equates to the fact that if I don't have the surgery, the six fusions will gradually pull and muscles will continue to spasm. This condition, as with the degenerative disk disease, is genetic.

I'll see the surgeon in March. The surgery most likely will be at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. The surgeon was trained there and under his recommendation, after my appointment in March, he will contact the "experts" and forward records to them.

I'll meet with more than one surgeon and they will provide guidance to my surgeon and confirmation that this needs to be done and how and when it will occur. I believe they will not perform this operation until the current/recent three fusions are healed.

As always, the surgeon treats me with a great deal of respect and describes in detail what most likely will happen during the surgery. The surgeons will place a helmet like contraption with two strong bands at both sides, gradually they will pull my head in the position where it should be, they will then lock it in and open the current incision, making it a longer, and insert rods on both sides of my spine. At this point, I zoned out a little, but I did hear they will be sure this stays in place before removing the helmet.

Four fusion surgeries and one heart ablation in what will be four years...yikes.

Thanks everyone for hanging with me. I deeply appreciate the support. LIFE IS GOOD. I'm blessed to live in a time when technology and intelligence meld together to work toward a positive outcome. I'm positive in my outlook, but sad, oh so sad.

Oh, poor, poor Linda! Yes, I know that you will face this with courage but I hate so much that it is required of you.

Oh Linda. Your news is even difficult to read, I can't imagine what it must have felt like to hear the procedural details . . .

Linda, you have been going through such a lot. I'm so, so sorry that you will need more surgery.

I'm sorry to hear about the new surgery, Linda. Please take care. xx

I'm so glad that you decided to share your news with us, Linda. I think it's important that you see how many people here care deeply about you and are rooting for you. My heart hurts for you, but I'm also so inspired by your strength and courage. You can do this! And try to think past the surgery and recovery to when it's all over and will be completely worth it!
Love you, Linda!

I totally agree with Amber — we want to share all the news with you, Linda, both good and bad. It must seem so discouraging to hear that you will need another surgery but I am impressed with your description of how thorough and patient your surgeon is to explain everything that has been done and needs to be done. He sounds like someone you can trust, and that's so important. We will all rejoice with you when it's all over and you are finally pain-free!

Linda, I am so sorry to hear about your new surgery. You do not sound needy or dramatic in the least. You obviously have a problem that needs taken care of and we all here care about you very much and want to know. I do hope for your sake that this will take care of the issues you are having. But don't hesitate to tell us dear. We all love and care about you. XOXO

I wish this didn't have to happen, Linda, but I hope beyond measure that it is the ultimate answer to your problem. Jefferson has a wonderful reputation; I see a lot of records from there in my work, and I know it's THE place to go for complex neurological issues. They will make you right, I'm sure of it.

Oh, dear. What can I say except that I'm so sorry that you have to go through yet another procedure and hope that it will be the last. I would send you hugs but don't want to jar you.

Thanks everyone. I appreciate your support. Life is complicated, and good. I'm lucky to have such wonderful friends, a loving family, and a surgeon I trust. Early Feb. I'll head back to Lehigh, while I'm still in a lot of pain, I think working part time for a few months will help take my mind off another surgery.

Now, on to happier things, such as lovely illustrated books:

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #10


The Girl Who Wouldn't Brush Her Hair by Kate Bernheimer illustrations by Jake Parker

Too cute for words, this is a story of a little girl who refused to brush her hair. Eventually mice found a happy home in the tower of matted hair. First one mouse, then 100 mice, living in a room, warm place, bothersome only because they tell stupid knock, knock jokes, yet, the time comes for them to go.

But, until then they scurry about in the hair home complete with a tennis court, a film projector to watch movies and a cheese cellar.

This was just the right book to read when the sky is grey and the house is warm and cozy.

Oh, I'm definitely going to look for that one - I love those illustrations!

Hi Linda! It's been a long time, I know, but I think of you all the time. I have not been on LT (in 2013) as often as I would have liked but I hope that 2014 will see me here more often. I miss your lovely, dream-like threads with surely some of the most beautiful books here for us to enjoy. I am so sorry to hear that you are expecting to have another surgery, and as someone who experienced very extreme surgeries with long recovery period to follow, I commiserate with you from the bottom of my heart.I am thrilled to see that you have discovered the woderful world of illustrated children's books. I am now, and was, during my recovery, thankful for books of any genre, that were capable of taking me away from reality and allowed me to wallow in another world, through words or illustrations. Currently I am perusing illustratd children's books also, because over the past several years I have dabbled in arts and crafts. Not to be pigeonholed, I am i love with colors,textures, all the tools of the craft, definitely a mixed-media approach but always leaning heavily towards illustration with high-quality markers, calligraphy pens, water-colors and acrylics. Just as in book-collecting, I enjoy collecting my art supplies. In an attempt to develop my own style I often try to emulate the illustrators of children' s books since they enable me to blend gorgeous colors with fantastical drawings. I try to take the leap from that to developing my own style. The point I am trying to make through all the blah,blah,blah is that I thank you for introducing me to such beautiful books. Together with your beautiful heart, it is a pleasure to come upon your wonderful threads. You will be in my prayers daily

#165-That book is beyond words-the idea of it, the drawings-wow

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #11



Knuffle Bunny Too by Mo Willems

This 2008 Caldecott honor book is cute and uncomplicated. The artistry is a unique combination of wonderful crisp, clear photography with illustrations superimposed on the photograpy images.

Trixie is excited to go to school with her new gift of a Knuffle bunny. Believing her bunny is the one and only, she is very disappointed to learn that another classmate also brought her one and only original Knuffle bunny.

Fighting in class, both the girls and the Knuffle bunnies are separated. Lat at night, Trixie discovers that the bunnies were mixed. When her father finds and returns her bunny, each child realizes the bunnies are special to them, and that's the unique part.

Hi Amber. I think Charlie might chuckle at The Girl Who Wouldn't Brush her hair.

Mary Beth! How wonderful to see a post by you. Thanks ever so much for your kind words. I hope the days of painful surgeries and recovery are over for you.

Good luck with your illustrations. I admire the talent!

I'm so sorry to hear that you will have to deal with another surgery. You must be at your wits' end. I don't suppose they have a support group for your condition. What about a chronic pain support group? I don't think you are being needy at all. Quite the contrary. You are a very strong woman.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #12


This Moose Belongs to Me by Oliver Jeffers

Wilfred finds a moose in the woods and, believing he can train the moose like a dog, he gives the moose the name of Marcel. Attempting to make Marcel follow his rules is a frustrating experience.

Learning that Marcel is very comfortable with another person -- an elderly lady who believes he is her moose.

Eventually learning that Marcel belongs in the wild and it isn't in his nature to follow rules, Wilfred accepts the fact that nature is not meant to be tamed.

I bought This Moose Belongs to Me for my great-nephew for Christmas. I loved the way the landscape has a sort of nineteenth century painting feel to it.

Hi Rhian, I agree. I hope your evening is relaxing.

((Linda)) We all wish you nothing but the best and I'm sorry you have to go through such trials. It's okay to post about it-- sometimes it helps just to see and know how many people care about you!

The Kate Bernheimer book is gorgeous! She's a fairy-tale lady who works with many talented artists with that same soft, whimsical style.

Linda, you are the exact opposite of needy and dramatic! You've handled everything that's been thrown at you with grace and resilience. I also think it's good to share your news so we can all support you. I know from personal experience the benefits of knowing many many people are pulling for you.

I finally catch up with you and I'm sad to see that you need more surgery. Many hugs and prayers for strength and patience for you.

154: I'm sick of all these surgeries and talking about it.
I can imagine; extremely draining to live with the pain, but nothing new to say from one day to the next. So this surgery will hold the previous ones in place?

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #13


Comet's Nine Lives by Jan Brett

Comet the cat lived on and roamed all over Nantucket Island. One day after eating the flowers of fox glove, she fell into a deep coma, and then lost one of her lives. Another day, settling on top of a rack of books in the bookstore, suddenly, she lost balance and was buried, she watched as life number two floated on by. All too quickly, Comet's remaining lives slipped away, until one day Hurricane Elmadore headed straight to Nantucket, taking all things in the pathway and scattering them, with Comet into the sea. As the eighth life flew away, Comet landed near the lighthouse. Finding another light house cat, she knew she wanted to live out her remaining days happily near the lighthouse and the cat who loved her.


Another wonderfully creative book by this talented author.

#175 Kathy, Thanks ever so much. I'm enjoying the delight of wonderfully illustrated books!

#176 Pat, I continue to hold you in my prayers. No stranger to surgery and recovery, you also are quite a brave woman!

#177 Hi Carrie, What a joy to receive a post from you. Thanks for your kind words.

#178 Katherine, the purpose of the next surgery is to correct the defect re. the way in which my neck leans downward. The rods will remedy that problem plus reinforce all fusions thus far.
Thanks for stopping by.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #14


The Graves Family Goes Camping by Patricia Polacco

What fun it was to read this creative and delightfully silly book. The Graves family pack the spiders, venus fly trap and friends and head for Lake Bleakmere. Having great fun collecting rare specimens, the Grave's family take a break to eat some of Mamma Grave's famous Jum Jills.
When a huge dragon approaches and eats all the treats, demanding more, fearful of their lives, the Graves family find that the dragon blocked all exits.

Finding a steam boat, they head down the river to home. Followed close behind, Dr. Graves has a plan. The nasty dragon eats more Jum Jills, breathes and kaboom, the town has the largest display of light and fireworks ever known.

When the dragon, now known as Barbara learns to eat only one treat, he becomes part of the family.



While I very much enjoyed the story, at first I had difficulty with images that appeared rough and gaudy. Still, I'll read more of Polacco's illustrated books.

Hi Linda-

All these gorgeous illustrated books. I think I get them out from the library as much for me as for the kids :) I like the idea of having photograph backdrops and cartoon people, in #169, that is cool! (and it gives me an idea for an art project for Wilbur)

>172 Whisper1:: Oh, Charlie and I are such Jeffers fans! We loved that one, but our absolute favorite of his so far is Lost and Found.

Hi Megan. I thank Amber and Brenda (brenpike) for this new found obsession I have with children's illustrated books. At times the lone adult in the children's section of the library, I happily sit on the floor and look at the stacks and stacks of books as I selectively pull one..two...ten...thirty to take home.

How creative you are to do art projects with Wilbur. I confess that I am not creative.

Amber, there you go...causing me to add more books to the pile. Thanks dear one. I truly appreciate your recommendations. It is a grey, snowy day and perhaps I can talk Will into taking me to the library for the third time in a week. I'm driving short distances in anticipation of the return to work in February. Will is a gem throughout this entire third surgery process, but I think he is growing weary of driving me around.

Found and starred you!

I love all the illustrations. Wow.

Oh, Linda, I am so sorry to read that you will need more surgery. There are just no words. And I think that Amber and Julia said it so well - you were right to share it with us. That way we can lift you up and be with you on your journey. None of us can carry our burdens alone - we were not meant to. And joys that are shared are that much greater. We are here with you for all of it - the good and the bad, the easy and the difficult. Keeping you in my thoughts and my prayers. As always, I am amazed by your perseverance and your positive attitude. Gentle hugs to you, dear friend.

Hi Linda, I'm so sorry about the news of you needing yet another complicated surgery. You are one brave lady and have so much to endure, and I'm glad you share it here and are able to get all this emotional support.

I've been really enjoying your romp with illustrated books. I had a two-month children's illustrated books summer festival a couple of years ago when I borrowed dozens upon dozens of books from the library and had a blast with it. The Girl Who Wouldn't Brush Her Hair looks so very sweet and the illustrations for The Graves Family Goes Camping are intriguing and make me want to investigate... I've also been enjoying your personal Jan Brett festival; does that lady have incredible talent or what?! Based one one of your reviews, I borrowed Trouble with Trolls from the library last week and really enjoyed it one night when I needed some cheering up. It did wonders.

Wishing your courage and success and sending you very gentle hugs dear lady! xx

OMG I'm so far behind on your thread! Sorry - I'll catch up, promise.

So I caught up. Oh no, another surgery. And it doesn't sound like fun, to be 'straightened up' with a helmet and then sort of braced in place. I'm SO sorry you have to go through this. I guess the only thing worse than going through it would be if the solution were not available.

I've seen people with chin on chest, unable to raise their heads. Not a good way to be, certainly. I hope for all success in March, and of course keep us posted on your progress.

Hi Linda- Thanks for all your lovely comments on my thread. Thankfully, my health issues are pretty minor compared to most people, so I am blessed in that way.
Have you read Will Grayson? You know you are one of my go to LTers, on YA.

I haven't read Will Grayson. It remains on the TBR pile. I think I'm hesitating because The Fault In Our Stars can't compare...

Here are my first three books purchases in 2014. They were found on the local library sale table for .50 each:

The White by Deborah Larsen
Poison by Kathryn Harrison
Men and Dogs by Kate Crouch

#189-190: Will Grayson, Will Grayson is definitely the weakest of John Green's books (possibly because it's a collaboration) -- still somewhat enjoyable, but don't expect it to measure up to his other works.

Thanks Foggi! I picked it up on audio, so I'll probably give it try.

Hi Linda! I brung yinz the receipt for apple cinnamon bread:

APPLE CINNAMON BRUNCH BREAD

1/3 cup brown sugar (not packed)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2/3 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup milk
1 apple, peeled and chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together in a bowl and set aside. Beat white sugar and butter together in a bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time, until incorporated; add vanilla extract.

Combine flour and baking powder together in another bowl; stir into creamed butter mixture. Mix milk into batter until smooth. Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Next add half the apples and half the brown sugar cinnamon mixture. Lightly pat apple mixture into batter.

Pour the remaining batter over apple layer; top with remaining apples and add more brown sugar/cinnamon mixture. Lightly pat apples into batter; swirl brown sugar mixture through apples using a finger or spoon.

Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean, 30 to 40 minutes.

**********************

Easy-peasy lemon squeezy! And so so so good. *smooch*

Linda,
First, Hi!

Second, I am sorry to read about your surgery. I admire your spirit and am glad you shared your status.

Hi Sweetie! I don't know how I've missed your thread so far this year, but I'm going to go back and catch up on what I've missed. Hope you are feeling well and that Lilly and Will are taking good care of you!

(((HUGS)))

Hello FoggiDawn (love that name) Thanks for the feedback re. Will Grayson.

Richard, thanks for taking the time to post this! I'm going to make it over the weekend.

Stephanie, The 75 challenge group has grown tremendously...That's a wonderful thing. I'm sorry I missed your thread in 2013. I'll be sure to visit your thread often.

Laura, Harmonic convergence is in the air. I thought of you a lot to day. How is your mother? And, you? Sending lots of love.

Hi Linda, I am so sorry to hear that further surgery is going to be required. You amaze me with your strength and endurance,

Thanks Judy. I admit that for a short time on Friday, I was in a sad mood. But, I'm ok now. I hope all is well with you. Thanks for stopping by, and thanks, as always, for your kind words.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #15


Armadillo Rodeo by Jan Brett

Continuing my quest to read all the books of this writer/illustrator, once again, I'm in awe of her talent. Her images pop right off the page. The detail is incredibly rich and stunning.

Bo the armadillo is one of many. As he travels along with mother armadillo and his sisters and brothers, he has a penchant for wandering. His poor eyesight never stops him from his adventures.

When he sees a pair of red cowboy boots, he mistakes them for a beautiful armadillo and instantly becomes infatuated. Before he learns the truth, as he follows the young girl wearing the boots, he rides in the rodeo, eats a hot pepper, dances and has a wonderful time.

Mamma and siblings search for him and come to his broken-hearted rescue.

The detail shines through in Brett's artwork of the red boots and the numerous scales on the armadillos.

NON-ILLUSTRATED BOOK #5


P.S. Be Eleven by Rita Williams-Garcia

In the Newbery honor award winning One Crazy Summer, we learned of the Gaither girls and their struggle to understand the mother who abandoned them, and headed to California for life dedicated to the black panther and civil rights movement. That was a five star read for me.

P.S. Be Eleven is the second book, and while not as strong as One Crazy Summer, it tugged at my heart. Told from the perspective of the oldest of the sisters, eleven year old Delphine is a stubborn, loving, spit-fire of a girl.

When mamma abandoned the family, Delphine was the sheep dog herding the sisters who watched as their father was dejected and grief stricken. With a strong, loving grandmother, life continued.

Now, returning from a visit with their mother, things have changed. Delphine's sisters are growing and no longer rely on her, Grandma's rules seem constricting, their father found a lady friend, and steady, wonderful Uncle Darryl recently returned from Viet Nam a changed, strange man with a drug addiction.

Letters from her mother are poetic and nonsensical. The woman who abandoned her children, as all too soon Delphine carried responsibility, now admonishes her daughter to "be eleven" and not act as an adult.

Weaving a difficult time in American history, the author does an incredible job of depicting a country changing and a family personally working through difficult issues.

Highly recommended.

Jumping in late to the Will Grayson topic, but wanted to throw my 2 cents in. TFIOS was the first of Green's that I read (I found him thru Youtube first) and it was wonderful. Then I read Looking for Alaska and it was really good too

I got Grayson along with Every Day by Levithan for SantaThing this year and I really liked Every Day, but haven't read Grayson yet.

I totally understand being wary after reading something profound that next (or previous) wouldn't hold up. But I think of it in terms of a saying that my wife and I always tell each other...

You can't recreate a meal (sometimes going back to the same place won't be the same). Or a feeling about a book. Don't compare them (at least not too much), but enjoy them for what they are.

And thus ends my 2 cents.

Good night fellow Groupers

Thanks for sharing your opinion Jeff. I will eventually read Will Grayson. Obsessive fool that I am, if I find an author who writes a stunning piece of work, I'm hooked and have to follow through and read them all.

Alice Hoffman is an author that I've read all but a few of her books. She is powerfully magical. Some books are better than others, but overall she is great!

And, speaking of Alice Hoffmann, I finished her most recent book tonight:

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #6


Survival Lessons by Alice Hoffman. This small, compact book is filled with advice and lessons learned. A breast cancer survivor, this experience was life changing. I love the writings of Hoffman and she remains one of my favorite authors.

But, while the book is page after page of bell shaking and ringing about moving on and enjoying life, grabbing the ring on the carousel, watching the sunset, long about the tenth page, I got it and while I kept reading, I had to sift through a lot to find the gems/pearls of wisdom.

I'm not negating her feelings, but somehow I couldn't resonate with this book.

Years ago in college it seemed the campus was filled with people holding books by Khalil Gibran. And while initially I followed the crowd and bought his books, reading Survival Lessons felt similar to the way I began to perceive the writings of Gibran -- poetic, but overly trite.

Morning Linda, sending warm thoughts your way. ETA: *not weather related warm thoughts rather thinking of you warmly and hoping for a pain diminishing day*

I'm just catching up on your thread and finding more health news, and not what I was hoping for, either. Count me as another who is grateful that you see us as friends that you can share your concerns with. Hugs and warm wishes, dear friend.

Something to cheer you -
From Thee, Hannah! by Marguerite De Angeli

.

You've probably read all her books and already know her beautiful illustrations, but I'm just discovering her - through another thread somewhere; wish I could remember where, because I love this book!

I love the second one!!!!

Me, too.

Cindy, many thanks for the lovely images. I haven't read all of this author/illustrators books. I certainly will read Thee, Hannah. I appreciate your spot of cheer. And, as I write, I see three deer, two adult sized and a wee one, in our yard. Earlier today, I scattered a bag of apples and carrots. I discovered they don't like carrots, but they do indeed love the apples.

I'm watching them munch, munch, munch away. The red color of the apple contrasts with the brown/white of their coats.

What a wonderful day!

Oh Linda.. I am so sorry about the disappointing news. I can't imagine how you feel ..
(((((Linda)))))

Linda, I'm sorry you're having such a bad one today. Hope this pain *whammy* reaches you in PA!

I've had a tough recovery with severe pain. If surgery #4 helps, then I am resolved that I need to do whatever it takes to get back to my life again. Little by little I look back and realize all the ways in which pain has taken over.

Kath, I hope you are feeling better today.

Laura, How are you my dear?

Dear Linda, it seems we lost touch over the last year, I did somehow got to your thread today, and have now got it starred.

Hope you recover soon from your pain, even if it takes Surgery #4. My thoughts and wishes are always with you.

I'm sorry to hear that you'll need another surgery, Linda. My prayers and thoughts will be with you.

Piyush...How wonderful to see a post from you. I'll hunt for your thread and star it. All the best to you!

Thanks so much Darryl. As I mentioned, I was hesitant to post yet another surgery related message. I'm glad I did. The support is very much appreciated.

two books entered the house today, given to me by a friend

two books left the house today given to the same friend

Book #4 acquired in 2014:

Good Dog. Stay by Anna Quindlen
Book #5 acquired in 2014:

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

(((Linda))), as someone else posted, I do so admire your spirit. I know, like everyone else, that I do want to hear about whatever is going on in your life, be it good or bad.

#216 Gone Girl is quite a book, hope you will like it.

Oh Linda, so sorry to hear you need another surgery! Sounds like you are in good hands though! Keep positive!

I am really enjoying all the picture books that you are posting! You are helping to grow my baby book wishlist!

Wishing you a weekend full of fabulous, Linda!

Just stopping by to say Good Morning, Linda! The snow is coming down thick and fast here today, in big, fat, gorgeous flakes. It's lovely, even though I think I've had enough for several winters at this point!

Linda, I'm really sorry to hear that you need yet another surgery. Having lived part of my life in the Philadelphia area, I can agree with others that Jefferson is a very fine hospital, and I know you will be in the best of hands.

Thanks everyone. The kindness of this group never ceases to amaze me.

The cold weather is back again. My daughter is staying with us today and tonight. She drove me around to shop at Marshalls. We had great fun. Pizza was the menu of the evening and pajamas are the required attire.

I'm reading The Testament of Mary and it is incredibly powerful. This is not the Mary organized religion taught me.

Linda - I think you know where so many of us stand in terms of giving you support with your recovery and all the setbacks that seem unfortunately part and parcel thereof. Suffice to say a gentle hug or two have been duly wished you.

This is not the Mary organized religion taught me.

You are right. We are not supposed to dislike her are we?

My daughter was with me today and stayed the night. She, Will and I had a lovely family night in pjs, chatting and eating pizza in the living room...

She took me on a few shopping jaunts today, and naturally, to a store that continued books...

I confess that it is day 19 of the New Year and already the resolution flew right on out the window.

The best find of the day was a Newbery honor book from 1956. I so hoped I'd have time to read a lot while home recovering these past months, but that didn't happen until recently. In the meantime, I need to find some inches of space to hide these latest acquisitions away somewhere.....

Oh PJs and pizza with your daughter sounds like a perfect evening!

Sounds like you are having delightful weekend with your daughter. Enjoy!

Glad you're having such a great weekend Linda!

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #7


The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin

This is not the Mary of Renaissance paintings, the Mary whose submissive positioning of head is surrounded with a glowing halo. No, this is a down to earth woman whose feet hurt from shoes unaccustomed to walking dirty paths to Jerusalem.

Watching her son, purple robed commanding Lazarus to rise from the dead was a fearful sight creating much suspicion. Not able to fathom how her baby boy grew to this confident over inflated magician/ruler proved incomprehendable.

Later, learning that Lazarus remained barely alive in a near comma state, she wondered how he, dead four days in the ground, could physically and emotionally sustain observing the other side while suddenly pulled up, up from the ground rudely to this reality.

Watching this boy turned man make a spectacle of himself, commanding vessels of water to magically turn to wine, while she wondered how out of control this egotist could possibly go

Watching as before her very eyes, the crowds of these clown like idiots sneer, while the dumb founded shiver in awe, and the circus grows ever more macabre.

Stunned, she wonders why the rising of a dead person was not enough demonstrative showing off for one day!

Watching the pack of people called disciples left Mary feeling that her son was NOT the Christ, but rather an over inflated egoist out of control man whose followers were near do wells. Experience taught her that when two or more boys/men are together, there is always misbehavior. Wanting to cuff his ears and make him behave, Mary grows ever distrustful.

Now, watching as her son stumbles through the streets, head bleeding from thorns that invade, sloped down from a cross too heavy to hold, she remains in the shadows as he is crucified.

Carefully scanning the crowds, realizing that this terrible event is well organized and meticulously set in place, she carefully fled away with Mary, the sister of Martha. Hearing his screams as the long nails were driven forcefully into his hands, Mary cannot understand why her son chose this rather than listening to her pleas months ago when she realized no good could come of this, and plead with him to come home with her.

Parents whose children have gone astray have felt this feeling of incongruity, the restless nights of no sleep, pondering how someone so good could have developed so badly.

Alone now, at the end of her life, suspicious of all, particularly the inquisitive who want answers regarding what she knew and what she believes, quiet, always fearful and overly stubborn, Mary is left to examine what she cannot comprehend and what she truly does not understand.

The writing is excellent, the story line is compelling, and provides an entirely different reference than the Mary I learned about in Sunday school.

Highly recommended.

#229 Linda
Wow what a review. I love books like this.

Trying to catch up with a few folks here and there tonight and I come here and find this news.... Oh, dear Linda! I am SO very sorry to read about your needing yet another surgery. I know this is what you had dreaded hearing and now must be so disheartened. I hope some of the love and good wishes that others have said have proven to you just how much you mean to us around here. Your strength and kindness are a light to those around you and we admire you so much. Prayers and love to you, friend. (((Linda)))

Linda...I've had my eye on this one for awhile now, and hope to get to it sooner now that I have your perspective. Thanks for such an insightful report. I just found that it is available in audio with Meryl Streep doing the reading. Evidently it was originally a one-woman show in Dublin. I'm downloading now....can't wait to listen to it.

Linda--Happy belated Thingaversary!! And great review of The Testament of Mary. Now, on to the surgery thing. You have my utmost empathy, as someone who is well into the double digits myself. I give you major kudos for your positive outlook and your appreciation for the fact that at least we live in an age where surgery is an option. However, if you really want to whine, I support that too. PMing you my phone number. Big (but gentle) hugs.

Oh, I just noticed on your profile page that you added Hollow City, the second in the Miss Peregrine's series! I have to get that one. Yay!

Oho, Testament of Mary is wishlisted - it sounds amazing! Thanks for the fantastic review!

ETA: I see on Amazon that the audo version is read by Meryl Streep - sounds promising...

Testament of Mary isn't my type of book but it does sound like it was a very interesting one!

Stephanie, thanks for stopping by. The Testament of Mary truly packs a whallop in a small amount of pages.

Thanks for your loving comments dear Tina! I am blessed by you.

Tina, I hope your mother is well. My but she and your family have been through a lot these winter months. I image you all are weary. How is your mother?

Berly, What a dear, dear lady you are. Thank you doesn't suffice for the wonderful of you.

Amber, Meryl Streep is high on the list of my favorite actresses. Since Out of Africa, I've been amazed at her abilities.

Morphy, It is amazing indeed. This is an incredible story at the hands of a gifted author.

Linda....Mom is doing very well now that I've left town....beginning to think I was the jinx. She's had an amazing number of visits from docs, nurses, pastors, physical and occupational therapists, and many phone calls, not to mention 24/7 professional caregivers this past week. Mom is a very chatty person, so all this attention is bolstering her feel better factor.

She goes today to the surgeon to have the hard cast and stitches removed, and hopefully they will just put the softer plastic half cast on. She estimates that in another 6-8 weeks she'll be "up to snuff" (her words, not mine) again. I just hope she will be guided by the professionals to lower her expectations on "up to snuff". Those high shelves in the kitchen requiring climbing on the folding step stool should be off limits, as should maneuvering baskets of laundry through the "hoarders tunnel" in the basement. Her daughters are going to have to convince her to let others do that sort of work.

I certainly hope this brutal cold snap is not exacerbating you pain. Please take care of yourself and know that we're all crossing fingers for the next surgery to be the one that makes life much better for you.

Excellent review of The Testament of Mary, Linda. I wasn't quite as taken by it as you, but found it very well done. Among other things, I liked the normal human reactions to some of his miracles that we're so familiar with.

An out-of-the-park homer of a review, Linda, and I might even read The Testament of Mary after that. Kudos!

Tina, It is wonderful that you and your sisters provide such good care for your mother. So often, that just isn't the case. I remember carefully watching my grandmother, wondering how much longer she could live alone. She was able to live in a community of apartments where the elderly helped each other. There was a common room and my very shy, introverted grandmother, looked forward to the daily events.

Snow is predicted by the local weather people. I don't mind the snow as much as the grey days, particular when I'm in a lot of pain. Sunshine does indeed make a difference.

Joe, the book took hold and I couldn't put it down. The writing is very well done and the atmosphere was set right from the beginning. I loved how many was a skeptical, intelligent woman who weighed her love of son with the distrust of his actions.

Richard, thanks for your kind comments. As you know, I think very highly of your writing abilities, thus your affirmation means a lot.

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK #8


Good Dog. Stay. by Anna Quindlen

Reading a book by this author is always a delight. She captures so much with a small amount of words.

Naturally when finding a book about a special dog, logically, I know that somewhere in the pages, the dog dies. I've loved and lost a number of very uniquely wonderful pets, and each one holds a special place, and I can easily cry when thinking of them.

My idea of heaven is that all those furry pets who sustained me through love and life, grief and sadness, joy and sorrow, will be there when I cross over. They will be different sized, but all will be healthy. With shining coats, and eyes of love, I'll cry at the sheer delight of one more chance to embrace and thank them.

Quindlen's book is heart warming as she tells the story of Beau, her very special black Labrador retriever. The book begins with Beau in his final stages of life. The eyes that no longer see, the fur that is peppered with grey, the medications needed, are all visible signs that the days are quickening faster toward the inevitability of parting.

Rather than elicit tears, the author provided a framework of celebration, of Beau .... of all wonderful companions.

Beau lived longer than the statistical charts. Each day was a blessing.

The true testimony that pets impart is that while we cannot replace one with another, the special bond of manifold blessings is that despite the limitation of their days, we embrace a new pet, knowing the gain outweighs the pain.

As Quindlen notes, "The life of a good dog is like the life of a good person, only shorter and more compressed."

Highly recommended.

The Quindlen book sounds great Linda and I especially loved (and agree with) your wish that My idea of heaven is that all those furry pets who sustained me through love and life, grief and sadness, joy and sorrow, will be there when I cross over.

Another wonderful review of The Testament of Mary, Linda. I think I will have to break down and hunt this books down. And the Quindlen books sounds pretty darn good too. Two BBs in one fell swoop LOL.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #16
The Witch With a Twitch by Layn Marlow illustrated by Joelle Dreidemy



Remembering that I became an avid reader because as a child I spent many days at the local library, lately, I'm taking my grand daughter to the library. She selects illustrated books and we read them together...she reads...I listen.

She particularly liked this book which is the tale of a witch who is afraid of shadows, of bats, of spells, of owls and frogs. Nighttime made her shiver. Willa was bullied and made fun of by other witches. Her beloved cat Kitch was hounded by the cats of other witches to the point where he couldn't stand it and ran away to the sea.

Searching for Kitch forced her to overcome her fears. Finding Kitch was the only thing that mattered. When she rescued Kitch, she no longer was afraid of simple things. He was back and that's all that counted.

Two wonderful reviews in a row, Linda!

Hi Linda, I'm so sorry to read that another surgery is ahead of you. You will be in my thoughts.

One of these days I'll read Testament of Mary. I keep reading such good things about it. Thank you for your review!

Good Dog. Stay. resides on my keeper shelf.

Joanne, Naturally I thought of you when reading Good Dog. Stay. I know your love of dogs runs deep.

I still think of the lovely photos of Coopers and Skye in the snow. What beautiful creatures they are.

Hi There Roni.

Would you like some cold, snowy weather your way? We have so much of it this winter. I am happy to share!

Charlie and I haven't read the Witch book - I'll have to see if the library has it...

The crazy cold weather is back here this morning: -4 with -19 wind chill. Sigh.

Hi Linda- Excellent review of The Testament of Mary. I hope to get to that one soon. I am starting a YA called Reality Boy, which has been getting pretty good buzz. Have you read A.S. King?

Your thoughts and description of Good Dog. Stay. have brought tears to my eyes. I cry too easily when it comes to animals, but your comments are beautiful -- not sad. Thank you for that.

Linda, wonderful review of The Testament of Mary. I was really taken with it, too.

Linda, I am terribly sorry to read you will need another surgery but I am hopeful that this one will take care of your pain. Your strength and positive attitude are an inspiration.

Great review of The Testament of Mary. That one had not been on my radar screen but your review has placed it firmly in my view!

Amber, we have snow, lots of snow today. It is the pretty type, the snowy globe look as it softly covers the trees.

I hope you are warm. Any sewing projects in the making? I friend called today. She is now retired after years of teaching at Moravian college. She purchased a Baby lock sewing machine. It has a lot of bells and whistles and she is enjoying learning about it.

What type of machine (other than the lovely antique Singer) do you use?

Mark, I've added Reality Boy to the YA tbr pile. I read Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King. It is well deserving of the 2011 Prinz honor.

Faith, thanks for your kind words. I hope is well with you. I imagine the weather in your neck of the woods is severe this time of year. Good Dog. Stay is small in size and large in the depth of how special are pets become to us. When our Shetland Sheep Dog Simon became suddenly very sick, sadly, we had to make the right choice to say goodbye.

Will was so upset that he could not stay in the room when the vet was transitioning him. I never saw Will cry so very hard. Simon had lost a lot of blood and had to be carried into the quiet room where we said our goodbyes, when Will was crying and leaving the room, Simon found strength enough to raise his head and connect with Will. Even in his pain, he reached out to Will in his sadness. If only humans could be as loving, trusting and sincere, the world would be a much better place!

Nancy, Thanks for stopping by. The book gave me pause to think. It as very well written. Have you read any other of this authors works?

Hello Heidi. Thank you for your loving comments. They mean a lot to me.
It won't take long to read The Testament of Mary.

running total of the books finding a home in my home in January

purchased for .50 each at the library sale
1. The White by Deborah Larsen
2. Poison by Kathryn Harrison
3. Men and Dogs by Kate Crouch

given to me by a friend
4. Good Dog. Stay by Anna Quindlen
5. Gone Girl by Gilliam Flynn

A trip to Ollie's discount store netted the following Total spent for these books =$35.50
($3.55 per book)

6. The Secret River by Pulitzer Prize winner Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings This is a hard-to-find 1956 Newbery Honor winner!
7. The Night Strangers by Chris Bohjalian
8. Sir Walter Ralegh and the Quest for El Dorado by Marc Aronson. A gold seal on the cover indicates it is a Robert F Sibert medal winner. I've never heard of this award.
9. Yakov and the Seven Thieves by Madonna...Yes, Madonna, the performer...very interesting to find a children's book written by her. The illustrations of Gennedy Spirin are lovely.
10. The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy
11. Reuben and the Blizzard illustrations by P.Buckley Moss and authored by Merle Good
12. Bats at the Beach by Brian Lies
13. Clara and Mr. Tiffany by Susan Vreeland
14. The Man Who Loved Clowns by June Rae Wood
15. Tales of the Madman Underground by John Barnes This is a 2010 Prinz honor book

Total books read to date = 16 illustrated and 8 non illustrated
Total books acquired =16

I read Good Dog. Stay. years ago shortly after losing my first black Lab, Sheba. I cried and cried as I read that book, but it was a good, cathartic cry.

Hoping you are staying warm and cozy on these chilly winter days! I'm sorry to hear that there is another surgery on the horizon, but I always that this will be the ONE that finally relieves your pain!

Hello Dear Friend David!! I have confidence that surgery #4 will do the trick. Thanks for stopping by. I agree, Good Dog. Stay brought some tears, but I really liked the fact that the author framed the story in celebration. Ditto to you regarding the chilly winter days. I imagine it is colder where you are than here.

And, while we are on the topic of chilly weather and dogs, Lilly had a wonderful morning, frolicking in the snow. At one point, she simply sat down, nose in the air and kept that position for a long time. When we called her in, I snapped this photo:

Aww, Lilly is so beautiful! It's fun to watch dogs playing in the snow, isn't it?

Hi Julia. I read your home page description. It seems you and I have a lot in common. I work in academia at Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA in the Journalism department supervising the students who pull together the yearbook and the newspaper.

Congratulations on going back to school at 39 and graduating with high honors!

No wonder your reviews are so well written....

Love the picture of Lilly!

Linda- Thanks for the other King rec! It looks good. She likes exploring the dark stuff. I am enjoying Reality Boy but I want to throttle both these parents.

Mark, so many of YA books deal with some pretty heavy stuff. I could make a list, but I'm too tired this evening. If we ever get out for today's snow storm, I'll head to the library to get a copy of Reality Boy.

Pat..She is lovely. She has the typical Sheltie personality, including supreme loyalty to the family, she craves and gives a lot of affection and, as the vet says "You cannot go wrong with this breed."

She is excellent with young children. I laughed when I read a description that said "Shelties are barkers and will alert you if someone is trying to get into your house. They cannot help themselves with friendliness and while they will initially bark, they will follow the intruder throughout the house, wagging their tail along the way!"

Linda,

What a great thread! 'Love the illustrated children's books.

(Go Lehigh)

Ah... just in time for a sweet picture of Lilly ;-)
She's a beauty.

I'm sorry to hear you must go through another complicated surgical procedure - but - this next one makes a whole lot of sense and raises hope that it will be the final piece of the puzzle. I'm actually looking forward to fantastic results for you. You've come so far and suffered so much. You can do this! {{{{Linda}}}} I'll be praying that your strength continues and the result is the best - beyond everyone's expectations.

The books you are reading are so lovely. Thanks for sharing :-)

*waves* Lilly is adorbs!

>255 Whisper1:: Well, I just got back into my sewing room to get some projects started again since Christmas, in the past few days - I'm working on sewing children's hats out of upcycled men's sports coats and shirts.
As to what kind of sewing machine I use, well, at the latest count I have 9 sewing machines: the first one I ever had, which is a Singer that my mom bought for me when I was in grad school, and then the rest are older machines that I've rescued from thrift stores and garage sales and had restored to beautiful working condition. And I make a point of using all of them. Old sewing machines should be *used* and *loved*! So I give the neglected ones a good, loving home. Tomm just rolls his eyes and says that I should open a museum! Ha! My favorite, though, is a Viking machine, made sometime in the 1970's, which is just like my mom's machine, and so is the kind I grew up learning to sew on.

#269 -- My mom also had a Viking machine. It was a dark reddish color and had lots of knobs you could switch out for different stitches. She ran that machine into the ground! She worked as a professional seamstress for several years when I was little. Unfortunately, I never developed more than basic sewing skills, myself.

Goodness it's hard to keep up with what's happening in these necks of the woods! And thanks for sharing so many fabulous illustrations. Love the picture of Lilly. And so sorry about the expectation of more surgeries. I know from talking to others how all-consuming back pain can be so I hope like hell for success for you

#262> If we are lucky enough to meet some day we will have a lot to talk about, won't we? We could start with the state of journalism today and go from there. :-)

And thank you so much for your kind words about my reviews. When I first started posting them on LT I tried to emulate the way I wrote them when they were being published, but that's hard to keep up for every single book. So now most books get a short review and a few get the full treatment. I do enjoy doing it; I can't imagine not doing some sort of writing even if I am no longer a journalist.

Lilly has grown into a beauty, apparently in every way. Dogs are so much better than most people, doncha think?

>270 foggidawn:: Vikings are fantastic machines - I'm saving up to get a fancy-pants computerized embroidery-making one. Because I need more sewing machines.

Good morning, Linda! I don't think I'd like the Mary book. Seems inaccurate that she'd think her son an out-of control egotist for turning the water into wine, when the Bible says she was the one who pretty much asked him to do it, even though he said it was not his time yet.

But I love so many of the picture books you share on your thread. And Lily is beautiful! I'm glad she enjoyed the snow.

Yesterday, I had an older kitten/young cat show up at my door, camping out on my porch, begging to be in out of the cold. What could I do? This morning it's 5 below. Kitty couldn't have survived outside in that kind of cold. Today, before and after (and even during) work, I will try to find the people who really belong to him. I made "found" posters with the kitten's picture and will take out an ad. It's really too cold to do much door-to-door asking around the neighborhood today.

I wish you pain relief and whatever joys life can provide on this winter day.

Terri... I didn't like the Mary book for similar reasons... but I am often out of sync with what folks here like :P

Linda, what a gorgeous coat Lilly has! Clearly she knew what kind of winter you were going to have. I'd gladly trade some weather with you. This is going to be the first January in recorded history with NO rain, and we have been having 3 weeks of summertime temperatures--and I mean July/August, not June, which is usually cooler than this. We need the moisture desperately. And while summer in January delights the tourists, we locals would not mind a taste of winter at all.

Linda! The glorious, gorgeous books arrived today! Thank you so, so much, from both me and Charlie!

>229 Whisper1: Excellent review of The Testament of Mary, Linda. I didn't particularly care for the book myself, because, oddly, I found Mary a bit flat on the page. I was intrigued by the whole idea, and I can accept this version of Mary, but I simply didn't like her, and didn't care much what happened to her.

Lily is beautiful! I'm tempted by Good Dog. Stay but am particular weepy about books where the dog dies lately! I'd almost like a book that says I'm going to skip the old age and death part. We can pretend the dog lives forever.

I got We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves as an ARC last year. I knew a bit about the author, so I knew I was in for a strange, difficult to review book but had no idea how difficult it really would be to review. I loved it, but yes, it is I don't know if sad is the right word, but dysfunctional certainly is.

Your surgery stuff sounds awful! Hang in there. You're being terribly brave about it. Hopefully, they'll have you as near to pain-free as possible soon.

((((Linda & Lilly)))) Love your review of Good Dog. Stay. Your idea of Heaven and mine are the same, dear friend. I know they will be there waiting. They have to be.

Hope your pain level is manageable today. Love & prayers!

Linda, question for you - is Good Dog. Stay. appropriate for a younger audience? We had to put our beloved family dog (also a black lab) down this past fall. My nine year old daughter is still taking the loss very hard and she likes to read animal stories. Your review made the book sound happier than a lot in this genre.

Nice book haul there. I always forget that Ollie's has books. We just got one in the fall. I got a few kitchen items there around Christmas.

Thanks to everyone for stopping by.....It makes me smile. It was freezing cold today...Will and I went out for lunch, were going to do some errands, but came right back home...

Prue I love the photo of you and Paul on your home page...how lovely! Thanks for your kind words!

Julia Right you are about the changing field of journalism...scary, don't you think? Ah, I could go on and on and on.

Kath Absolutely, Dogs are so much better, honest, loving and loyal than people.

Amber You made me smile thinking of your nine sewing machines...and now, the hope for a tenth.. I've personally seen your work. You are incredibly talented. And, you are welcome re. the books. I love sharing them.

Terri I agree with you on your knowledge/thoughts/feelings re. Mary. The book was good in providing the authors style of writing. I don't know what his personal beliefs are. I'm wondering if perhaps he wrote the book in this manner to provide controversy. Good for you for rescuing the kitty. You are right, the poor thing needed shelter. Any luck finding the owner?

Roni No rain? Yikes, that cold be dangerous right? I often read of flash fires because of dryness in parts of California.

Linda I very much agree regarding not liking Mary. She seemed bitter, an odd ball, and rather selfish. There was a know-it-all attitude that was difficult to accept.

Katie Do you think the author is as strange as the book? Thanks for your kind wishes. I'm glad I live in a time when they can perform these intricate surgeries. I tremendously admire the surgeon. Not only is he skilled, but he is a kind, compassionate man.

Hi Tina Thanks for stopping by. I kept your card and address. The address label noted both last names...Which is yours, which is Lisa's. You are so very kind, considerate and loving and I appreciate it.

Erik, I think Good Dog. Stay would be very appropriate for your nine year old daughter. The book is more of a celebration of the joy and love our dogs bring to us than focusing on grief. I'm so sorry for your daughter's loss (and your families loss). Losing a pet is incredibly difficult. Interestingly, John Grogan, the author of Marley and Me, taught a course in our journalism department (Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA) a few years ago. He and I had a good conversation about loss. I recall his comments that dogs/animals are usually the first experience children have re. death. Yet, one more blessing they give us, the preparation for life and the realization that loving brings a tear and a smile.

Lori As you know, Ollie's is a warehouse. The book section at my local store, is huge AND unorganized. There are sections noted, cookbooks, religion and there is a children's book section, but the rest is up for grabs. I only go there when I have time to go though piles after piles to find the gems. The prices are incredible and the condition of the books is excellent. Unlike a book store, you cannot go there and be relatively sure of finding a specific book, but I never come away empty handed.