Mark's Reading Place: Spring Fever #3

^Yes, Fantasy February is fast approaching. Are you getting your ducks all in a row? I still love my Tattooed Girl up there!

Audiobook:



Graphic:


Books Read So Far...

January:

1) The Tortilla Curtain by T. C. Boyle 3.6 stars (audio)
2) Little Failure: A Memoir by Gary Shteyngart 4 stars (E.R.)
3) Hounded: The Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne 4 stars (audio)
4) Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather 4.6 stars AAC
5) Snapper by Brian Kimberling 3.8 stars (audio)
6) Bleak House by Charles Dickens 4.2 stars (partial audio)
7) Reality Boy by A.S. King 4 stars (audio)
8) The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta 4.2 stars (audio)
9) Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard 4.4 stars G.R.
10) You're All Just Jealous of My Jetpack: Cartoons by Tom Gauld 4 stars GN

American Author Challenge 2014

Willa Cather- January
William Faulkner- February
Cormac McCarthy- March
Toni Morrison- April
Eudora Welty- May
Kurt Vonnegut- June
Mark Twain- July
Philip Roth- August
James Baldwin- September
Edith Wharton- October
John Updike- November
Larry Watson- December

Mark's picks:

Willa Cather- Death Comes for the Archbishop *
William Faulkner- Light in August
Cormac McCarthy- Suttree *
Toni Morrison- Undecided. Tar Baby *, Paradise, a reread?
Eudora Welty- The Collected Stories *
Kurt Vonnegut- Mother Night. Possibly a second title. *
Mark Twain- Life on the Mississippi- Thanks to RD *
Philip Roth- The Plot Against America *
James Baldwin- Giovanni's Room- Thanks to Kerri *
Edith Wharton- The Custom of the Country
John Updike- Rabbit Run *
Larry Watson- Orchard or White Crosses or both. *

* On shelf

**If you are interested in the American Author Challenge, check out the main thread. This is shaping up to be a highlight of the year, IMHO:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/162960

Hi Mark, happy new thread! Do you have a long weekend?

I thought this would be a good idea, to keep track of what is coming up and to supply links when they are available.

A Pilgrim at Tinker Creek Group Read- http://www.librarything.com/topic/167657#

The Great Portland Meet-Up. Saturday, Feb 1st: http://www.librarything.com/topic/167476#

Fantasy February: http://www.librarything.com/topic/167683#

William Faulkner- American Author Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/164037

Morning, Mark!
Happy New Thread!
I remember your tattooed beauty from last year, I think. She's purty.

Ha! I have started my Faulkner book and 20 pages into Light in August and I am happy with it. I have a dentist appointment tomorrow but have neglected to set up a thread about it. Sometimes, I am just lazy.

I am caught up with the AAC and with The Greta, I mean Great, Portland Meetup! Funny how when I think "great" I type greta, and when I think of "Greta" I frequently type great. Must be the increasing number of crossed wires in my brain.

Go Seahawks!

Diana is number one! Diana is number one! Yes, I have a two day weekend and for me that is a long weekend. Hope you are having a fine day.

Amber- Thanks! I usually don't repeat my toppers but I was thinking which one to use and thought I might revisit tattoo girl. Yes, she is very purty!

Karen- " I have a dentist appointment tomorrow but have neglected to set up a thread about it." LOL. Thanks for the first chuckle of the morning. I will be joining you on Light in August. Believe it or not, I don't have a copy yet. Can you say: Powells?
I thought Greta was a secret code or something. And yes, Go Seahawks!

I answered your snow question over on my thread, but thought I'd answer it here, too, in case you didn't venture back over there for a spell: 8 inches more yesterday. Yes, I said EIGHT INCHES. Sheesh.

Happy new thread, Mark. Where's the dentist thread? What Faulkner are you going to read?

I am so not up for events.. but I do love fantasy february.. dunno if I will make it to even follow quietly behind the scenes this year.. crossing fingers, though.

Happy new thread!! I think I'll skip fantasy February though. Too much else going on.

First thing...go out to shovel.

*jaw drops at Amber's EIGHT INCHES of snow*

Morning, Mark! Nice new thread you got here, and I love that you brought back Tattoo Girl for a command performance!

Part 3 already, Mark? Wow!

Mamie: We haven't seen the ground since sometime in November. It's just not warmed up enough to melt any of the snow, and we keep getting more. You should see the ginormous pile of shoveled snow at the front corner of our yard...

Good morning, Mark! Lovely new thread you have here. I'm probably going to have to pass on the Tinker Creek group read since it's starting so soon. But I hope you enjoy it!

Congratulations on trudging through the ice and snow to a third thread buddy. I am going to surprise a few pals and join up for Fantasy February (although I will only promise one read for sure) and have asked Nina to shortlist a few writers for me (from which it will be CJ Cherryh.

Hope Sunday is good to you.

Amber- Boo to 8 inches of snow! Actually, boo to all snow, except for a coating on Christmas Eve!

Beth- Thanks! Are you keeping warm up there? I will be reading Light in August. I don't think I'll be putting up the dentist thread. LOL. Actually, I am not due for a few months.

Kath- Good to see you, my friend. Hope you are feeling better. I am sure you could find an FF title. I have a few lined up.

Linda- "I'll skip fantasy February". What? I hope you have a relaxing Sunday planned with plenty of books and football.

Morning Mamie- I am glad everyone remembers "purty" Tattoo Girl! She's cute. I hope you have a lovely Sunday planned. Go Broncos!

Stasia- Good to see you! Miss you!

Julia- I wish you could tag along with us on Tinker Creek. I was planning on starting it a little later too but actually the timing works out. It doesn't look like a long read.

Paul- Great to see you! Glad you have an FF title picked out. I probably have 4 or 5 picked out, almost all on audio.

Hiya Mark! I admit I forgot about Fantasy February (bad Katie! as you would say) but have enough here to choose from... Enjoy your "long" weekend. I don't get MLK day off, so back to work for me tomorrow (and I also have a dentist appointment)....

I've just dug out my copy of Tinker Creek, too and will probably start it in about a week. I have six books going at the moment and I really, really need to get some finished before I start another.

I've tried Tinker Creek previously and put it aside as being a bit too lyrical for my mood. Right now, though, I seem to have a nature memoir theme going. The first book I read this year was a memoir about living year around in Yellowstone Park. One of the six I'm currently reading is Bradford Angier's story of living off the land in Canada's Peace River Country in the 50's. So, I'll definitely be checking out the Tinker Creek thread.

Enjoy your days off!

Happy New Thread Mark!

I know you have spring fever but as spring last only about two weeks in Houston I can wait a bit more. Even at their worst our winters are mild. I enjoy them. I like to think of winter during the long, hot and humid dog days of summer.

I finished my reread of Harry Potter book 1 and I have 2 chapters left of Out Stealing Horses. It is a very good book! The poor Watchmen sits on the nightstand with a book mark in chapter 3. :/

Congratulations on Thread No. 3, Mark. I really like the new feature--Upcoming Events.

Cool topper, Mark! Your tattooed girl is a keeper.

Hope you're enjoying some much deserved R & R. Good football coming up!

Mark, I'm an avid Winter Olympics watcher. Everything, including curling!! Who knows how much I'll read.

Today, it's a Blackhawks matinee, then the two football games and, if the second game isn't close, then DA.

Hi Mark! Less than two weeks now til our meet up. Woo hoo! Got my room booked.

I had tendonitis on the side of my foot this spring, but a cortisone shot fixed me up... until recently. I'm wondering if it is wearing off?!

Happy Sunday Mark! Thread is looking good.

I finished Bleak House! I finished Bleak House! Hooray! I just have to go back and read the introduction. Why do they put an introduction that talks extensively about the book in the beginning? Shouldn't it go at the end? Do they assume everyone has already read it?

Katie- Bad Katie is, right! I am sure you can dig up a few choices. I will try to post the thread tomorrow.

Janet- I am glad you'll be joining us on Tinker Creek. I'll start it tomorrow. It doesn't look like a long read.

Roberta- I would NOT want to live in Houston, in the summer. Ugh! It can get hot & humid here at times and that is as much as I can deal with. I am glad you are enjoying Out Stealing. I loved it.

Pat- Thanks! And I am glad you liked the Upcoming Events post. I thought it might come in handy.

Joe- Thanks! Lots of love for Tattoo Girl! She doesn't seem to be much of a dreamer but knows exactly what she wants. LOL. Time for beer and football.

Linda- sounds like you have an action-packed TV day ahead of you. I have the Broncos game on but I haven't been paying much attention yet....but I will.

Lisa- Yep, I leave a week from Tuesday! Yah! I have received a cortisone shot in my heel, a couple times but those are usually temporary fixes.

Abby- Thanks! I hope you are having a terrific Sunday. Are you watching the Broncos with your Mom?

Hi Mark. I didn't realize there was a group read of Pilgrim at Tinker Creek going on. I would like to read that one again, but I think I'm already overcommitted for this month (especially since I just picked up 3 more books from the library)!

Looking good for Denver right now, 23-3. We'll see. Quaffable: Stone Levitation Ale.

Congratulations on finishing Bleak House! I totally agree with you about introductions. I never read them until after I've finished the book. Pilgrim at Tinker Creek is an all-time favorite of mine. In fact, Annie Dillard is an all-time favorite of mine, and I have a few unread books by her hanging around. I think I'll plan to fit one or two of them in as "extries" during this Year of the American Author.

found~ you are just way too quick for me lately!

Congratulations on finishing Bleak House Mark, that is a major achievement in anyone's life. Now you're primed to tackle War and Peace with me. When do we take on that monument?

You do know your tattooed girl (a beauty to be sure) is a completely retouched image, right? Doesn't take anything away from her beauty obviously. I was forgetting all about Fantasy February, but goodness knows I have plenty of material on the tbr for it! I'll amuse myself by making another list for it soon.

Started reading O Pioneers! last night and really enjoying it. A girl gets to become the head of the family in the 1880s, if you can imagine!

^Has anyone NOT read Wonder? It is an excellent YA book and it is the Audible Daily Deal. I think it's 3 bucks. Do yourself a BIG BIG favor and check this one out.

BTW- I picked up a nice little hardback of Silas Marner. Sadly, I have not read Eliot and I have seldom heard any LT chatter about this one. Good?

One vote here for Silas Marner. Yes, it's good - and not very long. She's quite a writer. Middlemarch is my favorite, but this is a good intro.

Hi Mark- i hope that dentist appointment went well ;)

Just off to set up a Tinker Creek thread! You have reminded me of my tardiness. I started it last night, as you can never be reading too many books as the same time, right?

Happy new thread- glad you had a great time reading Bleak House and how's that foot?

Ellen- Go Seahawks! It looks like it's going to be a tough game. I know this Tinker Creek read came up fast. I've had a copy on shelf forever. If you could fit it in, we would love to have you.

Joe- Broncos dominated, that's for sure! Good to hear about Silas. I NEED to get to Middlemarch first. Levitation= Yum! I think I might have a spare in the fridge. I might join you.

Linda- Yes, this will be my first Dillard. Megan recently read her memoir too and that sounded excellent. I will start Tinker Creek tomorrow.

Kath- The threads have really been a whirlwind in 2014. You would have thought the novelty would have worn off by now. LOL.

Ilana- War and Peace: Jan 2015? LOL. I would probably have to do the audio/print deal again. It works well that way. Yes, I know our precious Tattoo girl has been airbrushed but she remains beguiling, never the less.
Glad you started your Cather! I want to read that one.

I have started the group read thread for Pilgrim at Tinker Creek and here is the link.

I am quick!

Mark, I'm willing to make War and Peace a date for January 2015 if you are! And I too will most probably alternate between an audiobook and my Penguin Deluxe Classics edition when I get to it. I really quite like that approach to huge volumes; makes them less intimidating somehow doesn't it?

I jumped right back to my thread to make that list I mentioned of Fantasy February options, and wow! I'm certainly well stocked in that department! You can have a gander toward the top of my thread if you're curious to see what I've rustled up.

I saw Wonder was the Audible Daily Deal today and hesitated. So you say I should jump on it eh?

Megan- The dentist went very well. No cavities! Yah! I have my copy of Tinker Creek at hand. I'll start it tomorrow. Sorry, Julia can't tag along. You were rushing us a bit, you know! LOL. I will star the G.R. link.

Ilana- I guess that is one way to do it...just plan it! War & Peace: Jan 2015, it is. OMG! Funny, I kicked off Jan 13, with A.K. my first Tolstoy!

And yes, Wonder is wonderful and it is a terrific audio! Buy it!

Ugh, I don't know. I just listened to the sample and there's a whole section on... bodily functions, which is something I really dislike. I'll think it over. Still have a few hours.

Mark - just wanted to let you know I just finished Death Comes for the Archbishop as my AAC selection this month. I was completely blown away by this book and this author that I likely would never have read if it hadn't been for your choice. Nicely done, my friend.

Okay, I seem to be following Jim around, but I want to second his sentiments regarding the author challenge -- it led me to a book long-forgotten on the bottom of a pile of books, and a beautiful, beautiful read I was sorry to end (Ms. Cather's Shadows on the Rock). Thank you!

Glad you enjoyed Wonder It is a nominee for the Colorado Children's Book Award. Kids need to read 3 of the 10 nominated books in each category (picture book or chapter book) in order to vote. The selections are good ones this year, and I am thrilled that important books like this one are being read so widely by Colorado schoolchildren.

...Is it even possible to have spring fever in January?

Hope you have a great long weekend!

Popping in to say Hi! Glad the dentist went well. ; )

No, I have not read Wonder, so I did just go to Audible and get it for 3.95!!! Thanks for the heads up, Mark!! :) Wooooo Hoooooo!!

Okay, so I've wiped my chin from drooling over tattoo girl up top! I say, let's use her for every Fantasy February thread topper from here forth! ;)

I'll add more love for Middlemarch, which is due for a reread, and Silas Marner.

Hej Mark, nice start of your 3rd thread - but I miss the beer here, hear?

*whispers*
I haven't read Wonder...
I guess I need to wishlist it, eh?

Happy Monday! I don't have a chance to say that very often, but I will for the next 3 Mondays. Yah! More snow arrives later today, with plunging temps. Only in the high single digits tomorrow. Ugh! Glad I will have a 4 day work week.
I will start Tinker Creek today.

**DA was BLAH last night. Patience is wearing thin. Anyone think differently?

Ilana- It has been about 2 years since I listened to wonder. I just remember it being very well done. You seem to have a good radar for these things.

Jim- My pleasure. I had know idea the AAC, would take off like this and who would have guessed Cather would have been such a hit. I also loved Death Comes and would really like to read another Cather later in the year.

Anne- "Is it even possible to have spring fever in January?" Yes, I am experiencing it right now. LOL. Glad you enjoyed your Cather and I hope you had a fine weekend.
Yes, Wonder could have been so cheesy and contrived but the author really pulled it off.

Kim- Yah, no cavities! Smirks, a little. Once again, thanks for all your work on the upcoming Meet-Up.

Tina- Wow, we are both drooling over Tattoo Girl! LOL. I am sure you will love Wonder and it was a great deal.

Lisa- I have had Middlemarch on my To-Read list since joining LT. I really need to get to that one. It seems to be very beloved.

Paul- Good to see you, sir! And yes, nearly 50 posts in and not a beer in sight. I must be slipping. But you can rest assured I have been drinking them. LOL.

Amber- I am sure you will love Wonder. It is a very special book. Instead of just adding it to the WL, just request it and go pick it up. LOL.

Hi Mark, good morning! I need to hop in the shower and get ready for work (my library is open today, one of only a handful in my county - booooo!), and wanted to say that 1) I haven't read Wonder, 2) I'm in for the group read of Tinker Creek, 3) ask if we are doing an AAC substitution if we talk about it on the general thread, and 4) hope that you have a great day off!

I'll add to the Wonder love. It was one of my top reads of 2013 and I gave it 9 out of 10 stars.

*waves*

I don't know about 'a good radar' Mark, I just go with whatever seems right at the moment, always keeping in mind that I have more books and audiobooks than I'll probably be able to get to within the next 10 years... as is probably true for most of us here!

Congrats on finishing BH, Mark. I'm nearing the halfway point and it's finally starting to pick up for me.

OOh! Fantasy February! Not that I really need any pushing on the fantasy front ;)

Saying that, I had decided that 2014 would be a good year to clear a load of classic sci-fi that I should have read - Ender's Game, Ringworld, Flower's for Algenon, that sort of thing... I have yet to start them. Maybe March then?!

Happy MLK Day, Mark! Hope you're kicking back and taking it easy. I'm finally in the home stretch with The Luminaries. Debbi and I are just hanging out, drinking hocho for her and coffee with Kahlua for me, and reading - my kind of day.

>48 msf59: - I'll chime in on DA - I am loving: a) Edith - I always love Edith. I think things are going to take a turn for the worse though. That girl cannot catch a break. b) Daisy and Mrs. Hughes - neither of these women have particularly interesting story-lines right now, but I just enjoy their general presence on my screen. c) The interaction between Violet and Isobel. I love that they are now friends, even though they are such different people.

I hate: a) Anna and Bates' story-line. This couple has been through enough! b) Mary - but then I always hate Mary. I find her to be the least likable character on the show. c) Lord Grantham - what has happened to his character?? I feel like he has reverted back to season 1, and any character growth he had is gone. d) The Branson-Edna conflict. Thank goodness that is over. e) Rose. Man is she annoying. What a poor Sybil substitute. f) Jimmy and Ivy. I don't care about either of them, and I feel like this relationship has been dragging on forever.

So really, there is more to hate than there is to love at this point. I think the only reason I keep watching is because I am a completest, and can't stop once I've started something.

Okay, back after running a flurry of errands, including a visit to the bonecracker, a couple Christmas returns, food shopping, (Ugh!) and the ubiquitous visit to the library. I picked up a GN request and a copy of Light in August. I was planning on picking up the Faulkner at Powell's but just in case of calamity, I have a back-up copy. We, Purists, need to be on the ball at all times.

Laura- Good to see you! " I haven't read Wonder." WHAT?? Time out for Laura! I am glad you'll join us on the Tinker Creek Express. Megan is really pushing the speed limit on this one.
And yes, AAC substitutions are acceptable...grumbling a little.

Morphy- Wonder love! Wonder love!

Tam- Big loving waves!

Ilana- " keeping in mind that I have more books and audiobooks than I'll probably be able to get to within the next 10 years." I am right there with you, sister!

Linda- I hope you had a great sports watching day yesterday. Some exciting football and the Hawks won.

The good news on BH is, I think I loved the final 1/3 the best.

BekkaJo- Glad you'll be with us for FF. I have a ton of titles but hope to get to a few.

Joe- I ran errands a good chunk of the morning but I hope to do some reading this afternoon. Have you ever read Dillard?

Cait- Thanks for your thoughts on DA. I agree with you on most of it. You didn't mention Thomas, but he's just plain irritating. I've been watching it with my wife and daughter, which is the only reason I MIGHT stick it out an episode or 2.

Hi Mark, happy short work week!

Mark - I am halfway through a fantasy series about mermaids, so the upcoming FF month will be a good reason for me to finish off the last 3 books in the series.

Whew, all caught up again, Mark. I need to shuffle through my list of February reading plans and make sure I have a fantasy or two included. Good luck with your Faulkner read (better you than me). I have started a real chunkster with Justin Cronin's The Passage these 800 plus pages should keep me occupied for awhile. Regarding book shelves, I stack 'em every which way and my shelves are not picture worthy!

OMG! How did I miss the start of thread three!? Hope the first polar vortex has prepared you the next arctic chill so it won't feel so bad.
I'll check into Wonder sounds like you're really into it.

Fantasy February, aka FF, (not Fred Flinstone) is on the air. Grab up your fantasy gear, whatever that my be, (we don't judge around these parts) and come on over and start making those To-Read lists:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/167683

It still full-blow winter in most of the U.S. so we need a little diversion.

Happy new thread, Mark, even though I'm a bit late!

Fantasy February...Maybe this is a good time to listen to A Clash of Kings.

Also, did you know that you are super-talented when it comes to finding images of scantily-clad women for any occasion? I can't wait to see what you unearth for Faulkner February! :-)

I'm back from the Iowa City meetup (which was a *blast*), and I thought I'd show off one of my purchases here, mostly because I blame you for it leaping into my hands:

">

What a lovely edition!

Isn't it, though? It's part of Penguin's Drop Caps editions.

"Even the simple darkness of night whispers suggestions to the mind."

"After thousands of years we're still strangers to darkness, fearful aliens in an enemy camp with our arms crossed over our chests."

-Pilgrim at Tinker Creek

^This is truly a thing of beauty. I am only 40 pages in but WOW! I quickly forgive Megan for making me pick this up so quickly.

RD- Yep, 4 days, my friend. Saturday is my day off and I will be taking it. And then vacation begins...

Caro- Are you back home? I better stop by your homestead and check. A fantasy book about mermaids, eh?

Judy- Glad you found me again. I loved The Passage and I hope it works for you. My disappointment was in the 2nd book, which may keep me from reading the finale.

Lynda- I've been waiting over here, for you to show up. Breaths out deeply. Yes, the Polar Vortex Part Deux hits tomorrow. Boo! And yes, find Wonder!

Kerri- I think A Clash of Kings is an outstanding choice for FF. That "scantily-clad women" thing, is completely by accident.

" I can't wait to see what you unearth for Faulkner February!" LOL! You just gave me a challenge!

Amber- I did not realize today was the Iowa City meetup! How very cool. At least the weather was decent. How did it go? I LOVE that copy of My Antonia. I WANT one!
Penguin's Drop Caps, you say!

Pilgrim at Tinker Creek is lovely, isn't it? I had to read it for a high school (junior year, I think) English class when we spent most of the spring on nature writing... I'd take it over Walden any day!

>57 msf59: - Oh, Thomas, another DA character who experiences growth and then BAM! reverts back to his season 1 self. I used to enjoy his antics, but now I just feel like they are recycling story-lines.

I am going to try to do both Faulkner for the AAC and Fantasy February, even though that is two big projects to take on in one month. I love these monthly themes and challenges - the chatter about Cather has been so great, and I look forward to seeing if our Faulkner experience is as overwhelmingly positive! I've never read him before. For Fantasy February I think I might try to finally read The Twelve, the follow-up to Justin Cronin's The Passage. Thanks for heading up both of these focuses in February!

I saw the first episode of Season 4 of DA but haven't felt compelled to watch the other episodes I've taped and this discussion is making me wonder if I even will. I think I'm getting bored with it and I really hate seeing some of the characters revert to their earlier selves like the writers can't be bothered with coming up with something new.

Mark, I hope you don't hate me saying this, but I'm having trouble getting into Tinker Creek. It might not be the right time for me to read this but I'm not giving up yet.

However, I did start O Pioneers! last night and that I'm loving so thanks for picking Cather for the January AAC.

Mark, I am starring the thread for Pilgrim at Tinker Creek even though I don't think I'll be reading along. Still, you never know. I'll see if there is a copy available at the library.

My Antonia was a four-star read. Thanks for kicking off your AAC with Cather.

The Twelve was seriously good. It'd make an awesome FF selection!

Hi Mark, even though I have both a paper copy and an ecopy of Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, I don't think I can join you. But I may follow along without reading it right now.

I'm finally reading Doc.

The Bates/Anna storyline on DA is trying even my patience...

I just finished the first episode of True Detective on HBO. It's a noirish crime drama, starring Matthew McConaughey & Woody Harrelson. It was very good. Solid writing and both leads are terrific. Has anyone else heard about this show?

Katie- I've been hearing good things about tinker Creek for a long time and now I understand why. Lovely and very smart.

Cait- I am glad you are joining us on AAC & FF. I have fun with these. Keep in mind, I peak early in the year and then it's all downhill. I didn't care for The Twelve. I know others loved it. I hope you are one of them.

Pat- I might get upset if you ordered a beer and didn't get me one but I would never be upset over someone not being in the mood to read a particular book. I think you might like Tinker Creek though, once you are in the right frame of mind for it.
Everyone seems to be loving O Pioneers!. Enjoy!

Ellen- I would love to hear your thoughts on Tinker Creek, whenever you get a chance to read it. And yes, the Cather love continues...

Jim- I wasn't a fan but I know others were. Loved the first one.

Joanne- This Tinker Creek thing came up awful quick. LOL. I was definitely not planning on reading it a few days ago, but I am glad I finally picked it up.
You are going to LOVE Doc! Yes, I am swooning.

Forgot to comment on the fact that I just brought back You're All Just Jealous of My Jetpack from the library this weekend. I saw the cartoons Joe posted on his thread, and remembering how much you'd liked Goliath last year, so I decided to give him a try. Also reserved the aforementioned while I was at it. For now though am off to see that disappointing third episode of DA.

eta: count me in with the O Pioneers! lovers!

Back up to post #56..You are spot on! While I'd like to finish season 4, I'm not so sure it is worth the effort. I say this with a sigh....It is time to end it before it spins into flat line.

I've heard some good things about True Detective. I'm glad you like it so far. I still need to finish Orange is the New Black before I start anything new!

I'm afraid I have to skip this thread until next week Mark because I didn't see DA last night and will have to watch it next Sunday.

Just watched DA which was a ho hum episode, I thought.

Not much happening.

While we are on the subject of TV series, has anyone followed Dexter? My daughter has all the dvds of the seasons and was sorry when it no longer was aired. I've borrowed a few dvds and started to watch it...I'm not sure of the word I would use to describe it.

Just watched DA - totally agree with everything Cait said above.

I just watched the first episode of BBC's Bleak House. It was good. You can't beat streamlined Dickens!

See you tomorrow...

Heya MarkyMark - the Beeb always does excellent literary adaptations, I think. I have yet to read my Cather - trying to make a bit more headway on The Goldfinch before I start as the new Donna Tartt is my RL Book Club choice for mid February....Glad you are liking Pilgrim at Tinker Creek which has been on my WL for a couple of years...might be the time.

Just jumping in at the end to squee about Fantasy February! I'd completely forgotten about it, so a very pleasant surprise! I was planning on restarting The Books of Malazan this year, maybe this will be the impetus.

>81 Whisper1: Linda: I've seen the first three or four episodes of Dexter and then had to stop. I used to be able to watch that sort of thing with no problem, but now it's just too much for me. I get really anxious and sad. So, nope, not for me, thanks.

ETA: Morning, Mark!

Woke up to a few more inches of snow this morning, after completely clearing the driveway yesterday and it's going to be only 9 today. Lovely! Can you say vacation? I knew you could.
On audio, I am starting Reality boy, which has a real nice hook and I'll be continuing tinker Creek.

Ilana- I just started "Jetpack" and it's very fun and very clever. And yes, I loved Goliath.

Linda Whisper- Since some people like the 4th season of DA, I would continue and see for yourself. I really liked the 1st 3 seasons of Dexter and then it started to fall apart in the 4th season and I gave up.

Joanne- True Detective was very good and my son said the second episode was even better. I finally finished "Orange" myself. It really is a good show.

Bonnie- I don't think anyone is spoiling anything about DA, just voicing displeasure. I hope it works better for you.

Linda P & Suzi- Oh hum, pretty well describes it. When is Call the Midwife coming back on? LOL.

Prue- I have the Goldfinch saved, maybe I'll start it in March. Move up tinker Creek in the stacks.

Tania- I need FF every year, just to get to some of these titles. It's amazing how they keep backing up.

Morning Amber- Suffering a Meet-Up hangover? All that excitement can cause that. LOL. I am not looking forward to the next 3 days of work. Ugh!

Morning Mark, so sorry about the snow. I hope it warms up a bit for you!

Woo, wrap up today, Mark! That was a bracing commute.

The Luminaries was pretty good. I would have given the prize to Life After Life, but they didn't ask me. Just started Five Days at Memorial, which already has me in its clutches. I think I may be getting hooked on a new mystery series, too, with Julia Spencer-Fleming's tales of Russ and Clare. Great characters.

ugh! sorry about the cruel weather. Speedy day to you.

I hate winter. That is all.

Morning, Mark! I am very excited about FF - thanks for setting up the thread.

Hi Mark, so were you in the "lot of snow" camp or the "barely any snow" camp? Hope there's not too much snow on your route.

For a lake effect snow, it certainly varied from town to town.

We got about an inch of snow and the roads were fine until I got about a mile from the office. Lots more snow here but, fortunately, they plowed.

Not sure which is worse...an inch of snow that is unplowed and slippery or 8 inches of snow that is well plowed.

Still plowing (heh-heh) ahead on BH. At this point, I hope to finish before the weekend.

By the way, Mark, I have thank you for nudging me into the AAC .. I wouldn't have read Willa Cather otherwise, or at least not for a long time since my copy of The Song of the Lark was buried near the bottom of my TBR Tower. I loved it and I'm on a Cather quest now, having just compiled a list of the other books of hers that have been recommended and which I would like to read.

>67 msf59: Beautiful!

Re: Dexter, Amber you and I are sooo on the same page, I watched the first couple of seasons and then it just got too stressful. . . .

>64 scaifea: *drool*
I love that edition.

I love books. I love reading them and looking at them and holding them and shuffling them and thinking about having them and buying them and ordering them. I don't really like sniffing them though....a hangover from always being a second hand buyer...they are too dusty sometimes.

I think that is all I have to say today, apart from: rug up Mark! Don't let that cold get you down :)

Big waves from the Winter Wasteland! Yes, it was very cold but my two biggest obstacles were the heavy volume and the 4-8 inches of snow, to tramp through. My customers did a great job, clearing the walkways and stairs.

I NEED a hot shower...I'll be back.

I love books. I love reading them and looking at them and holding them and shuffling them and thinking about having them and buying them and ordering them. I don't really like sniffing them though....a hangover from always being a second hand buyer...they are too dusty sometimes.

Me too!

Okay, I am back. I did start Reality Boy and managed to listen to a big chunk of it, well over half. I thought, in the opening chapters, that this would get to heavy-handed and depressing, with how these children are treated, but it pulled back and it's become a solid YA read. Can you call the police on fictional parents? These clueless, ignoramuses, should spent some time in jail.
And Dillard continues to entrance...

Abby- Thanks! It's been a long winter. We've had a couple mild ones in a row, so I guess this was payback.

Joe- I was dressed warm enough, so the cold wasn't that bad. I can't believe we still have a couple more days of this. Ugh! Sorry, The Luminaries didn't blow you away. We'll have to compare notes, once I get to it.
I am glad you got to Five Days. It's an excellent read.

Kath & Julia- Yes, this has been a tough one. Fortunately, I only have 3 more work days and then I am off for 10. Yah!

Mamie- This will be the 3rd year for FF. It seems to be a popular theme. I NEED it to happen, just to get to some of these titles, I've been putting off.

Linda- I am not sure what the snow totals were, but it looked like a lot, maybe 4-6? Enough to be a pain. My daughter was off today, so she cleared the driveway. Bless her little heart.
I watched the first episode of BBC's BH and it was very good. You will love it!

Caro- I am so glad you enjoyed your first Cather. She has been such a hit. She might be hard to top in the ongoing AAC. I hope to read another of her titles, later in the year.

Tam- Dillard's writing is gorgeous and she is so damn smart too!

Megan- Thanks for sharing the book love! I think most of us feel the exact same way and that is what makes this place such a joy. I am not big into sniffing books either, but whatever trips your trigger...

Lisa- I will be in Salem in exactly one week. I feel the pull...

Hi Mark!
Yay for FF... just picking out what to read will be fun ;-)

Agree with comments re DA - but I still like watching the show... so far. Maybe it's the dog in the opening shot! Would like to see the other end of it though. LOL

I am hooked on Julia Spencer-Fleming's Russ and Clare books after reading the first one... went right out and bought the second. Now where did I put that bookhorn?

I will NOT be joining anyone reading War & Peace - ever again. Good luck to you and Ilana. I would love to join Tinker Creek crowd - but no time right now. Your quotes above (#67) are enticing.

Sorry about the cold - but it IS winter. *grin*
So when is your next vacation? You need to pick a nice warm location.

The big National Western Stock Show comes to Denver in January and so cold, snowy weather we get this time of year is naturally referred to as "stock show weather".

It was 60 with brilliant blue skies today...

:)

We'll get ours.

Mark - Yasmyne is reading Silas Marner for her school english literature and hates it passionately. I seem to recall it not being bad at all.

In too much pain today to write much, so won't go into details, but I did not at all dislike the latest episode of DA and on the contrary found there were some interesting developments. I'm glad that beastly manipulative you-know-what is gone. Can't remember her name. That just leaves the other manipulator, can't-remember-his-name-either, and you must admit he's unpleasant but adds a needed element of trouble to the show. Not everyone can be kind and gentle after all. Speaking of which, Anna's situation is very sad, but it's supposed to be a drama, isn't it?

>103 Smiler69: Oh HER! Good riddance. Thank goodness for Mrs Hughes!

Feel better...

Claudia- Glad to see you are sticking with DA. I don't know why the show rubs me wrong, but it just does. I think it's just lazy, tiresome writing.
Picking out an FF book, eh? I have about 4, I would like to get to.
And yes, I know it's winter but I complain anyway, but it doesn't do much good. LOL. We have 44 inches already this winter. For us, that is a lot.
I am on vacation starting Saturday and I will be flying, next week, to Oregon to see to my sister and her family. It won't be exactly warm but better than here.

Joanne- "It was 60 with brilliant blue skies today...". Swoons a little...

Paul- Typical teenager, right? I really want to get to Middlemarch this year. I NEED to find a spot for it.

Ilana- I am glad you are finding pleasure in DA. I think it's run out of gas, so maybe I am just looking for fault. I love Mrs. Hughes too. Hope you are feeling better today.
If you have a chance to track down the BBC version of Bleak House, do so, it is excellent so far.

>95 leperdbunny: Tamara: I know, right?! I tried watching The Walking Dead, too, but, boy, that didn't work. Ha!

>96 LovingLit: Megan: Stop drooling on my book!! And, yes, I think you're preaching to the choir with the book lovin' speech - I totally agree, of course.

ETA: Oh, uh, Morning, Mark! Glad to hear that you made it though the winter wonderland again yesterday!

Good morning, Mark! I'm 106 messages behind, and no time to catch up, so I'll wish you a good day!

Morning, Mark! I am enjoying the Cather book, and I know that I would not have picked it up except for your AAC, so thanks for that! Wishing you a lovely Wednesday.

Good morning, Mark. It's snowing again. I don't know what else to say, except I hope you have a good day. :-)

Plenty of people have been blown away by The Luminaries, Mark, so you may be, too. For me, the central puzzles just didn't catch my fancy as much as they apparently did other people, and the need to summarize the plot 300 or so pages in says a lot. But the book is indisputably well-written.

Like Cee (and Bonnie), I think I'm going to be getting more of the Russ and Clare mysteries by Julia Spencer-Fleming.

Don't freeze solid, Mark. So cold. So so miserably cold.

Sorry to hear of the deep freeze that you are having, Mark. We are having that really damp cold that gets into your bones. We are also having a string of dull, grey days, I am so ready for some sunshine!

A postal officer in Dorcester, MA was injured when 2 morons jumped into his van while he was on his rounds, had some sort of tussle with him while trying to steal his van, and then leaped out, leaving him somewhat banged up. I thought of you, and hope you are safe during your rounds. Crazy people out there!

Yikes. That puts "going postal" in a new light...

Mark, do make room for Middlemarch, it's well worth the time. I listened to Juliet Stevenson narrate it some months ago; she is one of my favourites, so of course I enjoyed it tremendously given what an excellent novel it is. I've also got a beautiful illustrated hardbound edition of it for eventual rereads.

I have every intention of watching the BBC adaptation of Bleak House soon. I think it was recommended to me a couple of years ago by several members in this group, but of course I wanted to wait till I'd read it. I've been borrowing movie and tv adaptations of books I've recently read from the library lately and really enjoying that. Right now I've got a BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice on the viewing queue, along with an adaptation of Morality Play by Barry Unsworth called The Reckoning. I don't know about the movie yet, but I strongly recommend the book, and I know it's one of Paul's great favourites too as I picked it up based on his high praise of it.

Okay, 2 days down, 2 to go! I would kick my heels but my foot is still sore. BTW- My x-ray results were negative, which is good but now I need to take the next step. I am sure there is tendon damage. The problem is, I will be out of town most of next week and scheduling an appointment with a foot doctor could be tricky. I might need an MRI, but whatever it is, I need to get this issue taken care of.

I finished and liked Reality Boy. This is a solid YA but the way these parents behave, WILL get your blood-boiling. What scumbags. I started the audio, of the Leftovers. I've wanted to read this one, since it was released. I noticed Katie was reading it for her Book Club, so I though it would be a good time, to jump in. I know LT opinion of Perrota is mixed but I really like his writing. His story collection, Nine Inches, which I read last year was excellent.

Amber- I saw that next week will be in the single digits too! I am so glad I will be on vacation. Big Smile!

Terri- Good to see you! The threads have been moving like crazy lately. I'll have to stop by and see what you are reading.

Mamie- I am so glad you are enjoying the Cather and that you finally snagged a copy. She really has been a superstar this month. It was another frigid and heavy day but I only have 2 left!

Julia- We only got a dusting but the wind really picked up late in the afternoon and now it's drifting. This has been a TOUGH one!

Mark, Fantasy February is a real challenge for me as fantasy books are not my first (or second) love. I did grab a Kindle copy of The Golem and the Jinni a few days ago that I am excited about. I think it runs over 800 pages in print. I hope I have time to read Faulkner. We have a busy month to look forward to!

^Yes, I think I deserve one of these. Paul S pointed out that I was neglecting my beer postings...

Firestone Walker is a brewery out in California.

That reminds me: Why do we not have any LTers from California, or very very few? What is there problem? Too good for books?

Joe- I hope you had a fine Hump Day! Mine was just COLD! We'll discuss the Luminaries down the road. Hey, it's FF time!

RD- It sounds like the upper East coast is getting an arctic blast. Still taking Stella out? LOL.

Judy- I'll be in Oregon next week. I am sure it will be warmer but I hope for a couple pleasant days to do a couple things outdoors. Hope you get that sunshine!

Caro- I've heard of several incidents lately of carriers being robbed or attacked. 'Sup with that? It's not like we carry money on us, or at least I don't. They better not take my ipod. Talk about going "postal"!

Lisa- Big Waves!

Ilana- I think I will do both audio/print for Middlemarch. I'll see what it's going for over on Audible. I picked up Bleak House for 5 bucks. And then, I'll have to pick a month. Who is the publisher for the " beautiful illustrated hardbound edition"? I might want a copy of that.

Donna- Fantasy my might not be my favorite love either but there is still many many fantasy titles I would love to get to and FF is a perfect time to catch up with a few. I have The Golem and the Jinni saved on audio too, so I might join you with that one.

Reality Boy sounds good. I'm all for calling the cops on fictional parents, but cops often make the book really short! And Boy went to foster care and lived happily ever after... until the sequel. That one goes on the WL.

Hope you get that foot taken care of soon! After all, you've got to be able to kick Richard when he gets out of line. ;)

Who is the publisher for the " beautiful illustrated hardbound edition"? I might want a copy of that.

Good old Folio Society Mark. I'm sure you could find a copy at a decent price on AbeBooks if you like.

Hi, Mark! Congrats on your burning up the threadways with #3, but really ~ "Spring Fever?" I guess you're about as ready for winter to be over as the rest of us who live in colder climes.

>106 scaifea: Megan: Stop drooling on my book!! And, yes, I think you're preaching to the choir with the book lovin' speech - I totally agree, of course.
:)
I was just taken with my reaction to that book. I had to express it. Or run the risk of internalising it to the point that it combusted somewhere near my spleen, causing previously unheard of levels of damage.

>113 cameling: I am glad you shared that Caro, I was refraining from mentioning to Mark that I though of him when reading The Demon in the Freezer and the anthrax-through-the-mail "problem"....you know, in caase it tramatised him?

But you have reminded me that Mark is made of tougher stuff than that! If a man can trudge through sub-zero temps with frozen lungs, he can deal with hoodlums, bio-terrorists and common thugs.

*go Mark!*

118> I'll stand up for the minority Californians. Although, I'm not a native. Originally from Pittsburgh now in San Pedro. Definitely not too good for books, but I'll grant you that I may be the exception to the rule.

We do have some very fine breweries out here. I might have to partake of a fine IPA tonight, thanks for the idea. I should start posting my beer adventures over on my own thread ;)

Cheers.

Katie- I've read a few books in the past couple years, including the Family Fang, (which was excellent, by the way!) about parents putting their kids in harms way, but Reality Boy might take the cake.

Ilana- I saw some of those books in your collection and they were gorgeous. I won't mention it to my wife, but I might start collecting a few of those.

Mary- I have serious Spring Fever! This has been a long, tough one and as I get older it hits me harder each winter.

Megan- I put Anthrax on my cereal! Grrrrrr....! No, I am really not that tough, just don't pull a book out of my hands.

Jeff- Thanks for stopping by! If you like books and beer, you are a friend of mine. I know California has many great breweries. Stone Brewery is one of my favorites.
I was not picking on CA, I was just more surprised that there wasn't more of a presence on LT, being such a large, cultured state.

I'll have to track down your thread!

Oy Oy Oy this weather, Mark. *waves* I hope you have a good vacation!

I know you weren't picking on CA, thought I wouldn't blame you if I did. Stone is a favorite of mine. In fact I've got a couple of Enjoy By 2.14.14's chilling in my fridge. Another favorite is Pliny the Elder from Russian River.

Sorry your foot's not any better, Mark. It's adding insult to injury to be in pain and out in the cold.

I'm about 100 pages into The Leftovers. It was a slow start for me, but it's picking up. I also just nabbed Nine Inches from the library last weekend, so hopefully I can get to that soon.

Two more days until vacation? Woo hoo!

Do I count in Cali's favor re: bookishness, as I was born there? True, I hate the damn place, but can't deny the birth cert.

We cancel each other out. You were born here and left. I was born elsewhere and got sucked in. :)

Not So Sweet Thursday! Only 6 today and windy. Mommy! I hope my current reads keep me perfectly distracted.

Tam- 2 more work days and I am outta here! Hope the week is going well for you.

Jeff- We love Enjoy By too! The only problem was, I should have picked up more bottles when they were on sale. Now, they are bye-bye. When would the next batch come out?
I've heard of Russian River but have not tried it. I'll have to see if they have it in the Midwest.

Katie- I was going to stop by and mention they I started the Leftovers. I don't know, he grabs me quickly every time. I am so glad you picked his story collection. I did not rave about that one enough after I read it.

RD- You feel more like a New Yorker to me and I know you are not a fan of Cali, so we won't count you. LOL.

Be safe you there today, Mark. I'm waiting for the notice that school is canceled or at least delayed today...

I think I'll stay away from Reality Boy - I can't handle stories about parents (or anyone) doing harm to their children. *angry shudder*

I have been through bouts of foot pain, it is hard enough to cope with when your job is typical... but when you walk for a living, it must be hard to endure.. I hope it is better soon.

Happy Thursday Mark. Good thing you're not here Monday/Tuesday. This Polar Vortex could be worse than the last one.

I'm almost 3/4 of the way through BH. Enjoying it but not loving it. I didn't read as much yesterday as I watched the first episode of the film adaptation.

You are on my mind these days, good man. I have to walk about three blocks to work from where I park my car, one of those blocks is an absolute wind tunnel, and I simply can't imagine the mail carriers and others who must spend a large portion of their day outside in weather like this. Thank you.

I think we can all agree that Mark and his co-workers are heroes to be out and about in this weather, along with all the other folks who have to work outdoors in a northern winter. Bless their hearts!

131> Enjoy By's really depend on your state. Because Stone does them in small batches they pick and choose where the go. 2.14.14 is the current batch, and it went out to a bunch of places. I always check out http://www.stonebrewing.com/enjoyby to see where/when they are going to be. If I were a cynical man (and I am), I'd say its really good marketing on Stone's part, they entice you to go look for the stuff

I tried one of those time-limited Stone IPAs and it was good. I'm going to pick up some more Levitation for the Super Bowl.

I've got my copy of Moon Over Soho ready when we get to FF, Mark. Five Days at Memorial continues to be good, no surprise. She's quite a reporter. I may have to look for her other one.

Do what you can to stay warm out there. I'm glad you get a break soon. It's supposed to be even worse here next week - hard to imagine!

I'm also very happy about the AAC. It made me read my second Cather and I realized I really like her writing. I'll have to read more of her books. Probably the first "classic" writer where I've had that happen.

I am super excited about Fantasy February Mark...not so much about the Faulkner that I plan to read! LOL

I hope you are keeping your fingers covered today....this winter is turning out to be a loooonng one!

I need to pop on over to the FF thread! You know I'll be joining in THAT fun for sure!!

AFTER, I do my sworn *duty* to the AAC commitment and read a Faulkner first. Yikes... ;)

Get that foot seen about as quickly as you can! We need you up and mobile, sir (and pain free, if possible).

Hi Mark! Fantasy February sounds fun, I read mostly fantasy so I will probably check it out.

I know what you mean about spring fever. I've been looking at gardening books and online gardening sites and getting ready to start some plants indoors, as soon as I set up the little greenhouse I'm putting together. Wear your mittens and woolen socks and try to stay warm!

ETA I'm also in for Fantasy February! Putting together my reading list too.

^Go Annie! Go Annie!

Mark! Hola amigo!

^Need, I say more?

Amber- The parents didn't physically abuse the children in Reality Boy, but put them through the grueling and damaging experiences being on reality television, which might be just as bad. Insanely irresponsible.

Kath- There is a problem with my foot. I think there is a tear or something in the tendon. None of the exercises or medication seems to make any difference, although walking on it all day, in these conditions doesn't help either.

Linda- I saw the forecast for next week. Ouch! I am glad I will be on the sidelines. I heard on WBBM radio, that the long term forecast, shows extreme cold right through February. WTH?
What did you think of BBC BH? Wasn't it good? I watched the first 2 and hope to watch one tonight.

Linda (layton)- Thank you for the kind words. The extremes are always tough to deal with, especially when you get older and we haven't had a winter this tough in quite awhile. After tomorrow, I can rest up for 10 days.

Jeff- Thanks for the Enjoy By link and info! I signed up for it. Unfortunately, the Chicago area wasn't listed, this round. WTH? What is nice when Enjoy By stops by, a couple of my favorite brew/pubs have it on tap too. That's where it really sings!

Joe- Levitation is also one of Stone's very best and it's available all year round. Glad you are getting to Moon Over Soho. These are great fun. I might do the 3rd one as my first FF book.

^ ooh, that is a good one. (eta, and by that I meant the Dillard quote)

So you mean to tell me there is another polar vortex? Woah, someone up there must know how tough you are Mark. That is insane.

I hope you don't hate me Mark, as not only have I not yet done anything about the AAC, I am going to officially bow out from the FF theme as well :(
Rest assured, this does not mean I don't care.

Morphy- I am glad you are enjoying Cather and AAC. Are you staying warm and snug up there?

Heidi- Yes, every inch was covered. I stayed fairly warm but it was a bitter one. Glad you are fired up about FF. This is always a fun theme month and it helps clear some of those books off the shelves.

Tina- "AFTER, I do my sworn *duty* to the AAC commitment and read a Faulkner first." That's my girl! I have my copy of Light in august at hand too. I might not start it until mid-month or so. I can't believe it's nearly 500 pages. For some reason, I thought his books were mostly short. Double drat!

Abby- I hope to see you all over FF then! I hope to get to at least four!

Mary- I was bundled up very well but the cold still sucks it out of you! I have one more day to deal with and tomorrow should be in the 20s, which should feel a bit better.

Just a quick drive by, Mark - hope your weather is easing up!

Here is a cute little video about paper vs. ebooks. Ann Kingman posted this on FB. It's very short:

http://universityspeedreading.com/perhaps-the-most-hilarious-commercial-ever-rea...

#145 you forgot your book recommender minion!

Roberta- I did not forget you, my friend. Just jumping back and forth on the threads. I try to make a tiny dent in the evenings but it's hopeless. LOL.

Megan- "I hope you don't hate me Mark." This will never ever happen. Hey, we read what we want. That is key. Reading along with others is great but it's always optional.

Prue- Big heart waves! What are you reading? Prue.....?

HUGE Oberon fan!

Roberta- How is his presence in Hexed? Fingers crossed.

Mark you asked me this over on Julia's thread. Hexed is even better than Hounded! Get to it for FF!

Happy Friday! I should wrap up the Leftovers, which I am really enjoying and continuing with Tinker Creek. I would love to take a walk in the woods with Dillard and then go grab a beer. She is one smart, deep lady.

Roberta- Thanks! I loved the audio of the first one, so I'll see if I can track it down.

Morning, Mark! Wow, lots of love floating around for this Hounded book. It's one the wishlist, but it may need to hop into the amazon cart soon...

Amber- It's a lot of fun. You'll enjoy it. I am wolfing down some oatmeal before heading out. A bit more comfortable today. Mid-20s but windy.

Do you do audios? I can't remember.

Happy Friday Greetings, Mark! Sorry to read the foot issue persists, an extended vacation is what you need with medicinal reading administered at least 12 hours a day.
Wear the flannel gotchies today, my friend

What?! it's a sizzling 20 by you?! It's a shivering -2 with windchill of -17 over here. At least 300 schools closed. Snow tonight into tomorrow. Have you seen the temps for next week?! As you say, "Mommy"!

Morning Lynda- Yes, I did see the temps for next week. PV Part 3! Yuck! At least I'll be on vacation and out of town for most of it. The only problem with being out of town is, I won't be able to get a foot doctor to look at my foot. That's a bummer.
I better find my "flannel gotchies".

Only one workday to go, Mark!

Happy last day before vacation, Mark! I hope it's an easy one for you.

Tough, cold start to the day, Mark, but it's supposed to warm up some as the day goes on. One to go!

Sorry to hear your foot's banged up like that. Maybe some R & R time will help?

I finished In the Bleak Midwinter and liked it. I think this is a series you're going to want to try at some point. The main characters (Russ and Reverend Clare) are really engaging, and Miller's Kill, NY is a great setting.

P.S. I think Cress, the latest by Marissa Meyer, is coming out in early Feb, just in time for FF!

>161 jnwelch:: seconding Joe's recommendation for In the Bleak Midwinter, and the entire Clare/Russ series. Resistance is futile, Mark.

Have a good weekend Mark! By the way, Cress is coming out really soon! I am beyond excited.

I will be trying to read Wise Man's Fear for FF. If I get to it will also try to do Alif the Unseen. I listened to a Nancy Pearl podcast a few weeks ago in which the author was interviewed and told about this book. It sounded good so I pulled it from my shelves and will try to get to it in February.

I am still working on the biography Short Life and Long Times of Mrs. Beeton. It is not a very riveting biography, but I learning lots about how middle class Victorian's lived.

I missed DA this weekend, but I think that perhaps people are being too hard on the show. There are lots of new story lines developing and I think it needs time to jell. The one character I still dislike is Old Bat Grantham - although I can say that she is mellowing and I like that. I don't understand the Earl's viewpoint but I do know that the more rapidly things change around a person the more likely they are to resist and become more conservative.

Right now Edith is the life of the show.

I was bundled up very well but the cold still sucks it out of you!

Oh, my yes. I was born and raised in Chicago and remember well how, when the wind blows off the lake and creeps inside your coat, down your boots, up your skirt (well, up my skirt; I'm sure you don't wear a skirt ~ nor, I imagine, do many women nowadays, but back when I was working in The Loop, the dress code was skirts no pants even in the depths of winter), it freezes you to the very marrow of your very bones.

Hurray for Friday, and hurray for being off next week on vacation!

Your poor foot. Have you tried acupuncture? I have arthritis in my big toes, and I found that acupuncture can help, though it never lasts long enough.

>156 msf59:: Yes, I *do* do audio books - is this one particularly good on audio, then?

We're at a balmy 32F at the moment. But that isn't going to last. By Monday it's -9 for a high. Ugh.

^Yeah, baby! You know what time it is. OMG! I am so glad that is behind me for 10 days. Hallelujah! Sure, it was about 21-22 on the way home but with that fierce, biting west wind, it felt 20 degrees colder. I am windburned but happy.
We are meeting friends for dinner and BEER. A perfect way to kick things off.

Diana- Thanks! I am DONE!

Julia- Unfortunately, it was probably the most uncomfortable day of the week, plus the heat wasn't working in my vehicle, so I had no refuge. I was reading my book, on break, completely bundled.

Joe- All I can say is UGH! It was tough but now I can drown my sorrows. LOL. Let me know what the first title to start in the "Russ and Reverend Clare" series. Thanks! I am looking forward to the next "Cinder" book.

Laura- " Resistance is futile". LOL. Yes, boss!

Abby- Cinder was such a pleasure and I also really liked Scarlet. I hope she keeps it rolling.

**I have to run! I'll see you good people in the A.M.!

Nice to be done with it for awhile, huh? Plus, you're missing out on the worst of it next week.

Safe travels, my friend.

Congratulations, Mark! Perfect time to take a break. It's supposed to be even worse out there come Monday.

The first in the Russ and Clare series is In the Bleak Midwinter. That title ought to appeal to an appreciator of things dark and grim!

Fingers crossed Cress is as good as the first two.

What's the schedule for your vacation? Are you in town for a while?

Woohoo, congrats on getting through the tough stretch, and now....the weekend! Have a good one.

As someone who is sitting and anxiously awaiting the next Clare/Russ book as I'm all caught up...go ahead Mark. Just do it. Haha.

Contemplating Fantasy February I'm deciding which of two books I might read, both of which I have on my iPad: A Game of Thrones or The Curse of Chalion. Since I've only read two other fantasies both by Guy Gavriel Kay, this is still going to be a bit outside my comfort zone but I am still oddly looking forward to it.

Benita- Good to see you, stranger! I really enjoyed the Wise Man's fear. Is the new book coming out this year? I think I heard that. I've had Alif the Unseen on my To-Read list forever.

I am glad DA is working for you. It's just not cutting it for me. I think Edith is the highlight right now.

Mary- It sounds like you've had some experience with Chicago weather. LOL. You can feel my pain. I've never tried acupuncture. Maybe, I'll give it a shot if all fails.

Amber- Yes, Hounded is fantastic on audio.

Morphy- So you haven't experienced gale-forced winds all day? They are still blowing like crazy out there.

Linda- Yes, I am looking forward to being off the street. Yah! BBC Bleak House has been fantastic. Hopefully, that can encourage you to finish the book. LOL.

Joe- I requested In the Bleak Midwinter and hope to get it soon. I leave for Oregon on Tuesday and return on Sunday. Between seeing my family and doing an LT Meet-Up, it should be fantastic.

Megan- I feel like a punch-drunk boxer, but now I have 10 days to recover.

Bonnie- Like I mentioned to Joe, I requested In the Bleak Midwinter. My LT pals, rarely steer me wrong. I HOPE you go with the Game of Thrones. It was a fantastic fantasy read. I might do a Kay for FF.

Mark I kind of agree with Benita about DA. Of course I've always felt it was a soap opera. I think when two of your main characters (Sybil and Matthew) decide not to go on with the show it cuts into the story and I think they have done a good job introducing new characters and story lines when people really have been attached to Sybil and Matthew. Also, with O'Brien leaving they really needed to make Thomas the villain again. It wouldn't do to bring someone new right now for that. There is still some good in him though so I think he may surprise us as he always does.

I'm not ready to throw in the towel but I won't fret if I miss an episode. I need to watch Sherlock and I CANNOT WAIT for CTM!

Jelly Belly has apparently created beer-flavored jelly beans:

https://jellybelly.com/info/promotions/beerBeanLaunch

Of course, when I saw this, I immediately thought of you.

Happy Saturday! It is so nice, to just sit my butt right here and enjoy my coffee and LT and not have to worry about, what is happening out there...

Vacation Day One...ahhhhhhh!

I loved The Leftovers and I love Tom Perotta. I like humor mixed in with the heavy drama, otherwise it would be a sad slog, with a parade of unhappy people.
I should finish Tinker Creek today. Dillard would give MDR some competition in the Big Brain Department.

Roberta- "I CANNOT WAIT for CTM!" I second that emotion. I am glad you are enjoying DA. Maybe, I shouldn't be so hard on it but it's my nature. You give me something of a certain quality, I think you need to maintain that level or do something else.

Welcome to your vacation, Mark! I hope you have a wonderful and relaxing time off with lots of books mixed in.

Amber- Yes, I would like to have some Jelly Beans Draft Beer, please! LOL. What will they think of next? Wait, alcohol free? Oh, never mind.

Julia- Thanks! I will try to block as much reading time as possible, while on vacation. I'll try to keep the distractions to a minimum, although that is not always easy. I will do some driving in Oregon, so I plan on bringing my iPod along, to listen to a snippet, here and there.

Happy days off to you Mark! I hope the rest helps your foot a bit :(

>173 brenzi: If you are still just getting into fantasy, I recommend The Curse of Chalion first. Martin, while a good writer, is brutal and dark. Chalion, while dark at times, has an upbeat ending and overall feel.

HAPPY VACATION!!!!!

You so need and deserve this one, my friend. I'm hoping your jaunt to Oregon will be downright tropical (ie, anything over 40).

Mark, I love the reading polar bear, so cute. I wish you a fantastic vacation

Kath- I am going to try and get into the foot doctor on Monday, before I leave. Fingers crossed. Otherwise I have to wait until I get back. The foot might feel fine or better while I am off my feet but I am afraid of it flaring right back up.

Morphy- Thanks for the fantasy rec. I have not heard of The Curse of Chalion. Cool!

Claudia- Thanks! Last time I checked the weather in Portland, it was about 50. Salem could be slightly different, but it sure beats single digits. Can't wait for the Meet-up too!

Barbara- Thanks! I am looking forward to it. It will be busy but fun.

Enjoy your trip Mark!

Have a wonderful vacation Mark, you deserve it!

>185 msf59: Cool! It's on my favorite re-reads list. I've read it four or five times now.

Well, I've been taking care of things for a big chunk of the morning. No, reading yet. Now, we are going to look at a used car for my son. His car is kaput. He's been driving my Explorer and I've been driving my FIL's old man car. I hope this works out.

Big hugs to Roberta & Abby! Thank you both!

Morphy- It's on the WL!

Happy Vacation, Mark! It sounds like the weather and your tender foot were working together to make work a bitter experience. At least you had some good audiobooks to keep your mind on something else. I'm looking forward to reports on the Portland Meet-Up! Have fun with your RL family and your LT family!

Have a great time Mark. I hope your foot gets all better soon. Must say I agree with Benita and Roberta on DA, but of course you're entitled to your point of view. I dropped by the FF thread and had to smile at how conservative people's reading lists are. Mine must have thirty options on it! Haven't posted it there yet as not convenient on the iPad but will do soon.

Hope your enjoying the start of your vacation, Mark. I bet you are! If you get it in time, In the Bleak Midwinter would be a great vacation read. I just started in on a thriller, Japantown, and I'm liking it very much so far.

Enjoy the hols - specially being able to stay warm :)

Happy Day 1 of vacation Mark. I was going to tell you the temperature in Oregon next week but I can see you've already checked it. We've been struggling to get above freezing for more than a month so 50 sounds good to me even if it rains a little. Hope you can get into the foot doctor before you head out. Good luck car shopping!

Have a great trip Mark.

Hope the foot improves with rest. A postie with a gammy foot is like a blue movie star with a.........broken camera.

Safe travels, Mark! Hoping your vacation is full of fabulous...and beer!

Well, we bought a car for my son, Matt! Whew! The only issue is, it's a stick shift, so I'll have to drive it until I can teach him how to drive it. It's a little Ford Focus, in really nice shape.

Cracked nary a book! WTH! I hope to get some quiet reading time in very soon.

Donna- Thanks! I should have taken care of this foot issue, 2 months ago and now I am really paying for it, through a harsh winter.
I am sure the Meet-Up will be a blast! One week from now, we should be in Powell's, (PST).

Ilana- "but of course you're entitled to your point of view." Well, thank you very very much. LOL. If it returns with another strong episode or 2, I'll forgive DA a little longer.

30 FF titles? Wowza!

Joe- The day has been going well. Just busy running around. I am going out tonight with some work friends for dinner and beer.
I requested In the Bleak Midwinter, so just waiting on that title.

BekkaJo- Thanks! I've been waiting for this one for weeks! I hope the vacation moves very very slowly.

Pat- I hope I get into the foot doctor too. I hate to wait, until the following week and keep dragging it out.
Yes, 50s are going to feel good, after what we've been through.

Paul- Thanks! Fortunately nothing is wrong with my camera. LOL. Just a gammy foot!

Mamie- Ooh, beer, I think I might be getting close to cracking one. Grinning maniacally...

^It's similar to this one, not the exact year.

Very nice!

Nice first car! Speaking of first cars and stick shifts, I taught my daughter to drive using my stick shift, and she complained bitterly about it the whole time. "Why didn't you buy an automatic?" she demanded once. I told her it was already too late, and if she wanted to learn to drive, it would have to be a stick. So a couple of years later, her dad gave her his old automatic, and she tried to convince me to trade my stick for her automatic. "Stick shifts are so much sexier," she said then.

Happy first day of vacation! Enjoy! (And hope your foot gets better now that you don't have to be on it all day.)

^I think you know what time it is! I am meeting a bunch of work friends, for eats & beers. There will be a few retirees I haven't seen in awhile too. Yes, I will behave.

Pat- Thanks!

Mary- My daughter drives stick too and of course she thinks it's sexy too! I loved it, initially, but the novelty wore off pretty quick. I drove stick for about seven years and in the city that is a pain.

Yay!! I stayed up late last night reading and then focused on reading today, too, and finished Bleak House. That last one third is outstanding and everything made sense.

Mark, happy, happy vacation to you!! Hope it's wonderful. You'll share photos, won't you?

I hope you get your foot straightened around and soon Mark. What could be worse than a gimpy mailman, if you know what I mean. LOL. Now I don't know whether to read Curse of the Chalion or A Game of Thrones. Your my go to man but Morphy makes sense. Pondering....

Have a great vacation.

#173
I would read anything but Game of Thrones! My name for that series is "See How Many Creative Ways There Are to Kill and Maine People" series. I read two of this series and won't read any more. I don't have to put myself through that.

I loved driving a stick shift. I was in a similar situation to your son, Mark, in that I had never driven one when I bought mine. My mom had to drive it home from the dealer, and then teach me how to drive it. Once I got the hang of it, I loved it. I'm still not really used to driving an automatic, which I've been doing for the past 12 years or so.

Hi Mark, Happy Almost-Sunday to you!

In the UK if you pass your driving test in an automatic car then that's all you are allowed to drive. Consequently virtually everyone learns on a manual (stick shift) car. And until you get to the more luxurious end of the market by far the majority of cars on UK roads are manual (I read that overall it's about 84%). So although you can get an automatic version of most cars they tend to be more expensive, so people don't buy them, so they remain more expensive as not so many of them are produced etc etc.

I had never driven an automatic car until I came to Malaysia and now I rarely drive anything else. It is so much easier in the traffic laden streets.

Happy Sunday morning! It's very quiet here. 2 or 3 inches of snow fell over night, blanketing everything. Just poured my second cup and ready for some LT time.
Did not finish tinker Creek. When I did finally sit down to read a little, I couldn't keep my eyes open.

Linda- I am so glad the last section of Bleak House pulled it all together for you and you ended up loving it. That is perfect. Now, you can get back to watching the BBC series. I've watched 3.

Anne- Great to see you. Yes, we will take photos. We have to, right? I won't be able to post anything until I get back home but I WILL.

Bonnie- "What could be worse than a gimpy mailman." I agree, my friend. I've worked around many over the years. LOL.
Since I am an evangelist for A Game of Thrones, of course I want you to select that one, although the Bujold sounds good too.

Benita- You always bring such sunshine over here! Good to see you. LOL. What have you been reading anyway?

Julia- I let Matt drive around the neighborhood for awhile yesterday and then my daughter took him out. He'll get the hang of it. He has expressway driving to get to work, so I want to make sure he really has a handle on it, before setting him loose.

Laura- I love the photo of Marilyn. Thanks! It's amazing how many there are of her reading. She was crazy about her books.

Rhian- The first time I drove stick was, while I was stationed in Germany in the early 80s. I bought an old yellow VW bug and raced around the streets. I don't remember getting lessons, I just jumped in.
Europeans have always been much more economical, especially with the high gas prices.

Paul- Driving stick in the city is a pain. You are shifting constantly. Ugh! BTW- Do you have a new driver?

Morning, Mark! Happy Day Two of Vacation!

Several people have tried to teach me to drive a manual over the years and it just won't, uh, stick, so to speak. Somehow I've managed to muddle through life without that particular knowledge set, so, *shrug.* I do love my (automatic, of course) Honda Accord.

“It has always been a happy thought to me that the creek runs on all night, new every minute, whether I wish it or know it or care, as a closed book on a shelf continues to whisper to itself its own inexhaustible tale.”

“I am a frayed and nibbled survivor in a fallen world, and I am getting along. I am aging and eaten and have done my share of eating too. I am not washed and beautiful, in control of a shining world in which everything fits, but instead am wondering awed about on a splintered wreck I've come to care for, whose gnawed trees breathe a delicate air, whose bloodied and scarred creatures are my dearest companions, and whose beauty bats and shines not in its imperfections but overwhelmingly in spite of them...”

-Tinker Creek

...I am getting close.

Found and starred you, Mark! Now keeping up with all those fast growing threads is the next thing to do.

I'm with Benita on GoT, I'm afraid. Sorry, Mark, but I couldn't even finish the first. :(

It's hard for me to drive an automatic, even in city traffic, I've driven stick for so long. I don't know what to do with my left foot.

^Okay, I have most of my FF books lined up, although you never know, a couple more might pop up.

Amber- Of course, I also prefer driving automatics, at this point. Unfortunately, it looks like I'll be driving a stick for a few weeks, until I am confident Matt can drive one. What we do for our children. I could write a book.

Connie- Great to see you! I'll have to see if I can track you down and see what you are reading.

Mary- It sounds like you are Sexy Stick-Shift Woman! LOL. I know GOT has it's detractors but boy, it sure worked for me.

>150 msf59: that commercial made me giggle! I hope your vacay is going well thus far. :)

^I finished YOU'RE ALL JUST JEALOUS OF MY JETPACK and it was a fun collection of brief cartoons. Thanks to Joe for the nudge on this one.

Ha! I particularly like the one about the the poor mouse and Ulysses. Glad you had a good time with Jetpack. With a nudge from you and Ilana, I'm getting his Goliath from the library.

Sounds like you've had a productive day - I'm sure your son appreciates the help on the car. My first car as a Ford Falcon, back in the last century.

Have fun at your get-together tonight.

I am still reading the biography of Mrs. Beeton. It is not the best biography I have ever read, but it is passable. I'm not giving up on it yet. I am also reading Cutting for Stone and I like that book. I didn't think I would but the author has created such interesting characters that I am really enjoying the journey with them. Both of these are big books and I had hoped to have lots of time to read them. That is not happening.

I suppose that I owe you some explanation of why I have been so absent from the threads for weeks now. The first two weeks in January are always busy with beginning of the semester library instruction. Then a week ago I got the dreaded late night phone call to make the journey back to Kansas. My father has been diagnosed with stage 4 gastric cancer. While he was doing his chemotherapy he had a stroke that has complicated things considerably making it so that hospice care is not an option. He is in the hospital and fading fast. I have been here for a week now and will most likely be here for another week. I thought I would have lots of reading time in the hospital but that is not the case. My father is fortunate that he has lots of visitors but unfortunate in that he is fully conscious of everything that is happening to him. It looks like I will be here for awhile as my family has lots of things for which to make plans and things to get done in the few days left to him.

I brought plenty of reading material with me but because my father likes the newspaper I spend my reading time reading that to him.

Benita- I am so sorry to hear the news about your father. How very sad. At least you are there and can spend some time with him. Thank you for confiding in me.
Please keep us informed, whenever possible. Hugs to my pal!

Joe- All that activity was yesterday. LOL. Today has been a mixed bag of getting things done, starting to pack and cramming in some reading.

Hi Mark, first let me wish you a glorious holiday, I think this is one break that you realy need. Glad you are getting away and having an LT meetup. I have been battling a cold for the last little while but today I actually feel like I am winning. I am just about finished The Passage in fact, if I wasn't spending so much time on LT today I would probably have wound it up today. I have really enjoyed it, but this is the longest book I've read since David Cooperfield!

I am planning on kicking off Fantasy February with Cinder which seems to be one that a lot of LTer's have loved so I am looking forward to it.

Hi Mark! Happy Vacation!!! Today involved packing, what day involves flying to Oregon? You are in for a lucky weather break. Not only will it be warmer than Chicago has been, we are having a drier and sunnier winter than anyone can ever remember. There'll be hell to pay in August when the reservoirs are empty, but it's enjoyable while it's happening.

Looking forward to seeing you in a handful of days.

@144 Great quote!

Have a great vacation Mark!

I'm jealous of your meet-up. It'll be like an LT Booktopia! Take many photos, please.

Getting caught up here after a couple of weeks of the LT grid. Great thread topper pics, Mark! Since I will only be dipping into the American Authors challenge I love stopping by your thread to remind myself that I will be joining in on the McCarthy March - I really need to read my copy of The Road.

... and I will be joining Fantasy February by Finally reading my copy of Game of Thrones.... yah,I am really late to the Songs of Fire and Ice series. ;-)

Hooray for finishing Bleak House! I will be reading that tome until Easter, I just know it.

Here is hoping the down time gives your foot the rest it needs to fix itself.

Well, DA was a good episode. No complaints. Anyone agree or disagree?
I also watched another episode of BBC's Bleak House. This adaptation is OUTSTANDING! The cast and the writing are absolutely stellar.

Judy- I am glad you are enjoying the Passage. I was a big fan too. I also LOVED Cinder. what a perfect way to kick off FF.
Hope you are beating that cold.

Ellen- My flight leaves Tuesday morning at 9:00. I am getting Sue up early to take me. She starts later on Tuesdays.
I checked the temps in Salem for the week and it will mostly be in the 40s. I didn't see a lot of rain. Compared to what we will have here, I can't really complain.

Katie- Big waves! Hope you had a good weekend.

Joanne- Thanks! It'll be a very nice vacation. I get to see my sister and attend another Meet-Up. Win, Win!

#219: Benita, if you see this when you next check Mark's thread, just wanted to say that I'm sorry about the news about your dad. Know that I'm thinking about you.

#226: Hi again, Mark! I think you will appreciate the weather in store for you. Safe travels.

I'm watching the Grammys and won't get to DA til tomorrow.

HI Mark-We did the same thing for our oldest--Ford Focus and manual drive! She was so mad at first, but now says the boys just love that she knows how to drive one! Her is a blue one. Can't wait to see you! Five days...

>217 msf59:: *SNORK!* I love the Ulysses one!

Grammys. Who ARE those people? Nice to see some oldies like me in the crowd, so many I never heard of...Oh well.

Vacation, right? Enjoy

^Happiness is, staying inside while the Polar Vortex Part Tres, looms outside. Yes, I am smiling foolishly. I will have a couple of errands later, but they will be mad dashes.

Tomorrow at this time, my wife will be driving me to the airport. Keeps grinning...

Ellen- Thanks! Hopefully, there is no problem with my flight leaving.

Linda- I didn't even realize the Grammys were on. DA was a good one.

Kim- It took this guy awhile to sell this car and it had to be the stick shift, because the car is in tip-top shape. See you, VERY SOON, my friend.

Amber- If you can request the Jetpack collection, they are a lot of fun. My wife and son just left for work and my daughter will be leaving within the hour. Bye-bye from the warm confines.

Happy Vacation greetings, Mark! I switched between the Grammy's (uneven IMO but some good stuff, Twitter's a hoot) and DA but must watch DA again as I missed most of the Edith storyline.

Happy to see you've finished Bleak House! High fives my friend. I viewed the BBC series with Gillian Anderson after I finished and was greatly impressed by the production. Perfect casting.

Have a super wonderful time at the meetup. So exciting just to read about it and anticipate it along with you.

Morning Mark! We did not watch the Grammys as football was on at the same time, but I looked at the list of winners and thought, boy, have I gotten old!

^"Every bookseller in town has been in her library!"

^A little biblio-humor for a frigid Monday.

LOL!

I'm delighted you're enjoying the Bleak House dramatization, Mark. Have a great vacation!!

Hi Mark! Vacation started on a good day, I'd say. I see how cold it is there. I'm in Philly and I think it will be a balmy 30 today, so that's good, but I suspect it will be getting colder.

I tried a good, new Dogfish Head beer last night. It's a pilsner made with a bit of pear juice. It's not super-fruity at all, but the pair gives it a lovely kick. I'm a fan. Hopefully it comes to Chicago.

Have fun on your trip!

Kath- I don't connect with the Grammys, so I don't bother. Yes, today is my first official vacation day and I LOVE it.

Lynda- There wasn't much Edith going on but there was a hint, at her future. It was a good episode. When it doesn't irritate me, I am happy.
The Bleak House adaptation is wonderful. They really brought that book to life. I am only halfway through it.

Mamie- The Grammys rarely ever represent the music I like, so I gave up eons ago. I do like it when a young talented artist gets a boost, but that doesn't seem to happen enough for me.

Laura- Good to see you! Yes, the Bleak House dramatization is outstanding. The casting is so perfect. Hope you had a nice weekend.

I have trouble keeping up these days, Mark. I'm hoping today is still today, and I haven't missed it already.

We saw a couple of good performances on the Grammys. We particularly liked the Imagine Dragon/Kendrick Lamar rock/rap mashup. Beyonce with Jay-Zee to start the show was a snooze, mainly because the song wasn't all that great. One of our friends called this one, "Grammies for Grannies" because of all the older performers they were featuring. I will say Ringo came off surprisingly well, with a strong band behind him.

We muted in between performances. The canned chatter and awards are never very interesting.

I loved the Grammy's, even some of the newer songs I didn't know. Carole King is my all-time favorite so I loved her performance.

The Metallica/Lang Lang performance was interesting. Who'd ever think that heavy metal and a classical pianist would sound so good together? Loved Paul and Ringo performing together but Ringo alone, not so much.

It was a great show even though that one group was just odd to me (I think they're from France) and wear robot heads.

Happy vacation, Mark!! I hope you are resting that foot while you are living it up!! Lots of propping it up, sir!!

(((Mark)))

#235 I love that!

Happy Vacation. Hope your travels are trouble free tomorrow!

^I just made a quick run to the library to pick up requested items, which included:

The Testament of Mary. FINALLY! This is the audio that is narrated by Meryl Streep. Sweet!
Eleanor & Park- It's another audio. I know Joe and a couple others raved about it.
Hawkeye- A GN that Joe recommended. Go Joe!

Oh - I loved Eleanor & Park! I read it but I've heard good things about the audio.

Hawkeye was fun! I see that my library now has volume 2 - I'll need to pick that up.

Joe- "Grammies for Grannies". Yep, that probably sums it up. I am glad you found some entertainment value in it. I love Kendrick Lamar and Frank Ocean.
Ringo did okay, huh?

Linda- I love Carole King too! How did she sound? That French duo was Daft Punk. Actually, I liked some of their earlier electronica stuff.
What did Paul and Ringo sing?

Tina- Thanks! My foot feels fine right now but next week, may be a different story. I have an appointment for next Monday, when I get back.

Roberta- Glad you liked the Bibliobimbo. No one else commented on it. Horrified or bored? LOL.

Suzi- There are no snowstorms in the forecast, so I should get out of here, in the morning, with no problem. Look forward to seeing you on Saturday.

ETA- I knew there were a couple other LT pals that liked Eleanor & Park. Cool. And I hope to crack Hawkeye this week.

Carole King sounded great. She sang with Sarah Bareilles who I'm not familiar with but an artist I might need to investigate further. That Lorde woman who my 13-year old niece likes won quite a bit, too. My niece was keeping me posted on "current music" via my sister yesterday.

Paul and Ringo sang a new McCartney song called Queenie Eye. On Feb 9th, they're doing a concert/show together in honor of the 50th anniversary. I think it's on TV that night. Earlier, Ringo sang his old song, Photograph.

Besides Sarah Bareilles, I also liked Pink and a couple of the current performers I'd never heard of. Oh, and of course, loved my Keith Urban.

Afternoon Mark. Hope the vacation is going well. I heard it's supposed to get colder again so bundle up and keep warm!

Yes, Pink was great, as always. She's got the best attitude around. She started with some of her spectacular Cirque du Soleil high-wiring, and then came down to the stage for a duo with that guy from Fun. My wife loves Sarah Bareilles. Lorde is 17 years old. Can you believe it? She's one of those who looks much older to me.

Geez, I didn't even know the Grammies was on until this morning. I'm so out of it!

Metallica and Lang Lang performing together. What a world!

^This is Koren Zailckas. (She looks like a little girl, albeit a cute one) And I started her novel Mother, Mother. I like it so far. She wrote a popular memoir called Smashed: Story of a Drunken Girlhood. I did not read it. Anyone else?

Linda- Thanks for the Grammy info. I listened to Sarah Bareilles many years ago and remember liking her music. I also like Pink, although I haven't heard any of her recent stuff.

Abby- Good to see you! I am off this week and leave for Oregon tomorrow. I am only outside for mere moments, which is a relief.

Joe- I like Pink too! She has spunk!

Mary- Metallica is trying to still be relevant. I am not sure it's working.

Hi Mark! I am totally jealous that you are on vacation. I read Smashed a few years ago. I liked it okay but I felt she was a bit self-indulgent in it. I did plenty of drinking myself in the college years, but I had a hard time relating to Zailckas's story.

Have a fantastic trip to the northwest!

^Well, it looks like I am doomed...

Crap. Me, too. You want to meet at the brewpub and commiserate?

#238 - :-(

Mark I'll "pray" for you! LOL!

I love those noir book covers. That one is hilarious. I'm looking for the perfect one to copy and make into a purse!

I got my notice from the American Library Association regarding the major awards given this morning and Eleanor & Park got some kind of award for YA literature. Looks like maybe you know good literature when you read it.

I did not get to watch either DA or the Grammies last night. I will be interested in seeing the fashions from the Grammies. I think that I am going to be very far behind on DA and might have to write off this season. I hope that I get to see Call the Midwife, but will have to see how things go.

Kerri- I am so sorry, my friend! I saw and read it too. Real nice pal, huh? Looking forward to heading to Oregon and attending another Meet-Up.
When do you return? What was the name of that Dogfish Head?

Heidi- Thanks for your input on Smashed. I am liking Mother, Mother. More horrible parents. LOL. Looking forward to my trip.

Joe- I think we will have many LTers joining us at the brew/pub! LOL. We definitely have some Ravers!

>210 msf59: The first time I drove stick...
That phrase is SO American :)
I couldn't even think of what we call "stick" until I read Rhian/SandDune in #208 say "manual"- to me it is just normal. If it's automatic it is a bit abnormal. Of course, now....automatic is more normal :)

>248 lindapanzo: That Lorde woman who my 13-year old niece likes won quite a bit
Yes! Kiwi girl, aged 17...still a high school student...
We never have the Grammies on live tv here, but this year we did because of Lorde. I watched it and was elated to see Lorde do so well, and perform her song LIVE....what guts she has.
*proud*

Beer fanatics! Ravers and liars? LOL- that guy with that sign could very well be a nut-job.

Hi Mark....I also picked up my copy of the audio of Testament of Mary today. Can't wait to get into it this weekend. It will be interesting to hear your thoughts.

Drive-by wave! I'm sooooo far behind. Enjoy your vacay!

Poor Kerri. If people aren't calling her the wrong name they are just ignoring her posts. That girl can't catch a break!

Hi Mark, just checking in with you before your Oregon trip. Hope you don't have any problems getting out of Chicago. See you Saturday!

Roberta- I can't believe those book covers are real. That is just to much. Could you imagine some mug picking up Bibliobimbos from the paperback rack? LOL.

Benita- Good to see you! Eleanor & Park has been getting some strong buzz. I have to bookhorn it in.

Megan- Yes, you know us Americans and our unique (and lazy) phraseology. Yep, that dude with the nutty sign, is unfortunately a common occurrence in the states. How about getting a real hobby?

Tina- Great to see you! It's been a long time. I don't think I'll get to The Testament of Mary for a week or more but it's at the top of the pile.



^See you, for a quick one in the A.M.! Wait, that didn't sound right.

^Oh, Mark! You really ARE doomed!

Okay Mark, I think I may have missed it somewhere- where are you going?

I guess one thing Mark needs to do on his vacay is start a new thread, eh? :-)

^ He's coming to the American Pacific Northwest! Beer, books, and great company. :-)

Seems like you're enjoying your vacation, Mark :-)

Happy Tuesday! I leave the house in about an hour. I have my books, ipad, ipod and oh yeah, a few clothes. I am set.

Katie- Keeping up with threads is a major chore.

Julia- I'll make it up to Kerri, I always do.

Pat- Thanks! See you in a few days. Yah!

Mary- LOL. At least I will not go down alone.

Tam- Yep, visiting my sister in Salem OR for the week and then heading up to Portland for the fandango.

Ellen- You know, I think I will quickly start a new thread. Trying to do one on my ipad may be tricky.

Diana- Thanks. It's been nice and should get better.

Come join on me in my new digs. Just to say farewell and see what I am up to...