CEE's 2014 Thread #3 *Come as you are *

Clivia buds beginning to mature... more pictures to come as it blossoms!

2/19/14

3/1/14

3/3/14

3/7/14

TOTAL BOOKS READ:



BOTS:

2014 STATS:

total books read: 22

BOTS (books off my shelf): 5

Fiction: 16
Non-Fiction: 6
Poetry: 0

male author: 6
female author: 16

US authors: 18
authors from other countries: 4

living author: 16
deceased author: 6




OK. I got the BINGO CARD. Now how do I check the squares?

A book with more than 500 pp: Dune by Frank Herbert (896 pp)
A forgotten classic:
A book that became a movie: All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy
A book published this year: Innocence by Dean Koontz
A book with a number in the title: One of Ours by Willa Cather
A book written by someone under 30: Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard
A book with non-human characters: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
A funny book: Grumpy Cat: A Grumpy Book by Grumpy Cat
A book by a female author: Shadows on the Rock by Willa Cather
A book with a mystery: Love Songs from a Shallow Grave by Colin Cotterill
A book with a one-word title: Cinder by Marissa Meyer
A book of short stories:
A book set on a different continent: The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky
A book of non-fiction: Rising Sea Levels by Hunt Janin
The first book by a favorite author:
A book you heard about online: The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold
A best selling book: The Blue Sweater by Jacqueline Novogratz
A book based on a true story: The Color of Lightning by Paulette Jiles
A book at the bottom of your TBR pile:
A book your friend loves: Music & Silence by Rose Tremain
A book that scares you: And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
A book that is more than 10 years old:
The second book in a series: Fountain Filled With Blood by Julia Spencer-Fleming
A book with a blue cover:

2014 AAC - as I plan it for now:

Jan - Willa Cather - Shadows on the Rock and One of OursEXCELLENT
Feb - Faulkner - The Hamlet QUIT !!! :PPPPP
Mar - Cormac McCarthy - All the Pretty Horses EXCELLENT
Apr - Morrison - Song of Solomon
May - Welty - A Curtain of Green: and Other Stories
Jun - Vonnegut - Cat's Cradle
Jul - Twain - Roughing It
Aug - Roth - sub Henry James - The Portrait of a Lady (have been trying to read this for at least 2 yrs)
Sep - Baldwin - Go Tell It on the Mountain
Oct - Wharton - The Custom Of The Country
Nov - Updike - The Witches of Eastwick
Dec - Larry Watson - Let Him Go

Finished Reading for March:
The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold
Grumpy Cat: A Grumpy Book by Grumpy Cat
Music & Silence by Rose Tremain (rec'd by Ilana)
The Color of Lightning : a novel by Paulette Jiles
All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy
Song of the Vikings by Nancy Brown (LTER)
Fountain Filled With Blood by Julia Spencer-Fleming
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
The Blue Sweater by Jacqueline Novogratz

Currently Reading:
Slightly Foxed #24 by Gail Pirkis

April Hopefuls:

Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
Frankenstein's Cat by Emily Anthes

From last thread:
Kath -
They said it could take a week to make the name change. I'm assuming they are not working on it over the weekend. Mainers cherish their weekends home with family, etc.

Lucy -
Have not tried to visualize just what will change with the new name. I could be in for a shock - one way or the other?

Paul -
I think Cee makes more sense and I'm glad it will not be a difficult transition for you. lol

Now why didn't I think of using "mydearwhatever" for a new name? I do feel that way often ;-)

Tossing down my pillow... so I don't lose you !

>8 mckait: How does that song go?
"You can't lose me!"

ooh, I like the progress of the blossoming flower. It is nice to watch them day by day, isn't it?
The new naming feature is so...impersonal, I find. But good when you are in a hurry :)

Congratulations on your latest thread, Cee.

>9 -Cee-: http://youtu.be/ZJb-dPfgSgo

Happy new thread, Cee. The clivia seems to be doing great!

Happy new thread, Sis! And I'm loving the name change if and when it happens!

Hi Cee! The Clivia is lovely as are the photos you've chosen to represent each month of reading. I know you are looking forward to being able to use a photo (April, perhaps?) that doesn't include snow!

It's a gray and rainy and cold day here in Seattle. I'm on the couch with my laptop and a book (the book is sitting off to the side while I try to do some LT catching yup!). Abby keeps wanting me to turn on the fire. :-)

Hi, Cee! Just peeking at the new thread.

Hi Claudia- Congrats on the new thread! Love the blossoming topper!

Happy new thread!!!

Beautiful clivia buds! I don't know that I've ever seen them before...

I can't wait for your name change! I'm always looking in the wrong place for you! :)

Looks like I am now, officially, -Cee-
I think I LIKE it!

>10 LovingLit: I just took another picture of the clivia blossom and in 2 days it has made good progress! I'll post it next to the other - hopefully today.
You must be so excited to be starting back to school this week! I signed up for 2 courses at our Senior College that will be starting in a couple weeks :-)

>11 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul!

>12 mckait: Yup. That's the one. When Bridget got married she chose that song for the two of us - mother/daughter - to dance to (in addition to the traditional father/daughter dance). She taught me a line dance that was popular back then. It was fun and as the mother I didn't feel left out :-)

>13 wilkiec: Thanks, Diana. The clivia is an annual miracle around here!

>14 connie53: Hi Sis! It happened! And it seems to be working well!

>15 EBT1002: Ellen, I'm not sure April will allow me a snow-free picture - but we can hope for the best. This has been a crazy winter for much of the nation, but pretty normal for Maine I'd say.
Just wondering, how can you tell Abby wants a fire turned on?

Wow, you are Cee now!

Happy birthday

-Cee-…so fresh and simple…I like the change because you have been Cee to me ever since Kath came up with the shortened version of Claudia.

I always look forward to the blooming of the Clivia. That shows you how little is going on in my life right now! Plus, I didn't bring any of my blooming plants inside last fall so there is not much color in my world.

>16 tymfos: Terri, Come back and peek again! I have a real name now! lol

>17 msf59: Thanks, Mark. Keep checking and you will see the whole blossoming process unfold before your very eyes!

>18 TinaV95: You should find me more easily now, Tina! I hope. I hope.

>20 connie53: Awwww... thanks, Sis. I've been reborn!

>21 Donna828: Yup. That's what I thought, Donna "…so fresh and simple"
And, as you can see... not much going on in my life either. I am no green thumb - so if a flower blossoms for me - WOW!

Beautiful flowers blossoming up top, Cee. Congratulations on the new thread and successful name change!

>19 -Cee-: woo hoo.....Cee it is! For those of us whose brains don't always make connections easily, this one is a no-brainer. Thanks for making it easier to keep up with you.

>24 jnwelch: Thanks, Joe! It took some courage - but was quite easy from my end.

>25 tututhefirst: Finally, huh? I took the plunge. You are so welcome. I feel better too ;-)

#14 The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold 4.8 stars



This was a great, great book. I knew I wouldn't finish it in February - but didn't want to let it slip by me. Looks like I opened another 'book of worms' - so to speak. It's my first Bujold book and it looks like there are several more.

I love fantasies where the heros/heroines are wise, sorely tested, can take a beating, and still come out on top! Throw in some snow, curses of the gods, and hard journeys ~ balanced with clean, warm linens, magic, and celebrations... YES! This book has it all.

It is you. I saw the name in another thread, wondered if you had transformed. Congrats.

Yay for your new old name Cee!! I looked at it and immediately couldn't remember your old name haha. And I was supposed to read the Bujold last month but never managed to fit it in. I don't know when I'll get to it but you make it sound very good. The Clivia is stunning!

ooh (again) I like your new name styling! I always thought from your old name that you were a really young LTer. Something about me thinking it was an alternative spelling for bizarre, I think. :)

Love the blossoming flower. It is stunning!

I knew the name change wouldn't take long, congratulations! Even though I call you Claudia (as we've already discussed), I find it much nicer to see 'Cee' on the screen, because I could never figure out why 'bahzah'. Thanks for the hugs my dear. I hope we'll be able to exchange some in person some day. xx

Good Morning CEE! I am glad to see you under any name. Hope today is good in all ways and that everyone around you is well and happy . I also hope that you get one more big snow, just for you. Up there. At your house ( just trying to be clear) ..

Here? I hope that things begin to warm up, because I am near to tears every time I take Duncan out lately. It is just too darn cold. It was 5F this morning. At least there was no wind :-/ and walking to or from work in 0F or 4 F is just no fun. Brr.

eta

flower = pretty pretty. I like the way you are showing a progression.

BTW, I updated the Threadbook just now...

>28 qebo: Yes, Katherine. I have transformed! lol
Thanks. It did take a bit of courage :-)

>29 brenzi: Hi Bonnie! It looks like everyone is catching on and this transition has been easier than I thought. As you say, it's a "new old name".
The Bujold is pure old-fashioned royal fantasy.
The clivia is an annual event that knocks me off my feet. Can you tell I'm not accustomed to having a plant behave in a normal productive way? I can't grow much of anything - but this plant is doing its own thing. It needs re-potting. The old plastic pot it's in is literally crumbling. I'm really afraid to switch the pot, but I HAVE to. And soon.

>30 LovingLit: Ah, Megan. Are you thinking now that I am NOT a "young LTer"? Hmm. I feel young. Doesn't that count?

>31 Smiler69: It seems changing my name has made things easier (for me and others) which was my goal. Someday I will make it to Montreal and take you up on that in-person hug!

>32 mckait: Oh, thanks so much Kath! One more awesome snowstorm "for the road" and the trees, and the woods, and the cove, etc - then I can move on to Spring without regrets. Yes. Yes. MY house. You were very clear ;-)
I wish warmth very, very soon for you. You have suffered enough this winter. Well, many have. I wish everyone 60s and 70s - no more. For a whole week - all at once!

>33 drneutron: Thanks, Jim! You're the best! I'll go check on it right now :)
ETA: btw, what does that little padlock icon next to the thread numbers mean? Not everyone has it, but I am one that does. Curious.

So when LT discovered the security breach that made us change our passwords, they also switched all the addresses for talk, etc, to https, a more secure browsing method.

Wikis put a symbol next to links automagically so that people can tell that when they click on the link it'll take them out of the wiki into the wider internet. For a standard http link it's the arrow symbol. For https links, it's the lock. All links from now on will likely have this. Other than above, there's no meaning or consequence to the lock thingy by your thread!

Hmm, on further experimentation, it appears I can edit out the "s" in "https" to make a regular link that works just fine. I may go back and change the ones with the locks to avoid confusion. Not that it matters much from a technical point of view. :)

>35 drneutron: Uh-huh.
>36 drneutron: O.I.C.
(not really - but I'll relax about it knowing it's in good hands)

heh - I did ask, didn't I?

>36 drneutron: Yeah, that's what I did with mine because I didn't care for the aesthetics of different symbols.

>38 qebo: OMG - you understood him??? I feel so 20th century. ah well.

Hi Claudia- I've always liked calling you by your full name. You don't mind, right?

You sure have been loving your fantasy reading, my friend. I had a couple Bujold books, including that one, lined up for FF but did not get to them. I will though.

Thanks for sharing your beautiful flowering plant with us!

It's gorgeous!

ps: My cat eats all my house plants. That one would never make it here. And my not-very-green thumb would have nothing to do with it.... :)

>39 -Cee-: Hi Sis, Jim lost me too. I agree with the uh-huh thing. And it being in good hands!

> 41 Joanne, my cats do that too. I have to satisfy myself with looking at Cee's....sigh

Cee... good luck with Wooly today and please keep me posted. I will be sending good energy and hoping she is just going through a finicky phase? Did it snow again?

>39 -Cee-: I feel so 20th century Love it, Cee! It all sailed over my head, too. But I'm glad it's in Jim's good hands.

Hi Cee! Unlike Mark, I'm going to switch to calling you Cee in conjunction with your username change.

I love the pictures of your Clivia plant. Do you eventually move it outdoors? I'm really bad with house plants but I successfully kept an amaryllis alive that I got for Christmas, at least until it got too many bugs, so I have more confidence than usual regarding plants.

I've put The Curse of the Chalion on hold at the library to see if I like it. The odds of me finding the time to read it are not good but I least I can do a test drive. So thanks for that recommendation.

>40 msf59: Mark, I don't mind being called Claudia at all. I do believe I will still respond to it... haven't forgotten that much yet.
I could read fantasy all year long. However, I do realize I'm already pretty close to the edge of reality and need to hang on tight ;-)

>41 Copperskye: Hi Joanne - I'm pretty lucky I guess. My cat doesn't eat plants. Though I would never fully trust her, of course, and will not buy anything I know is poisonous. Right now she won't eat anything but her treats. Worrisome. We are going to the vet tomorrow. She's gonna hate me for a week after that :(
Can't be helped.

>42 connie53: Connie, I'm sure it all makes perfect sense and maybe could figure it out eventually... or maybe not. Don't believe it is worth all the time and energy it would take me to find out. Some things just need to be passed on to the younger generation. Gladly :-)

>43 mckait: Kath, Thanks for the good energy for Woolly. She is hanging in there from treat to treat. I could be creating a monster but she has to eat something. This winter seems to be hard on humans and pets.
So, yes. I did snow last night/this morning. Not much but it freshened things up nicely. It also made things messy and slippery. The mother of a friend fell in the road and broke her hip. She was out getting her mail. *sigh* Old ladies think they can do anything. As they were putting her in the ambulance she was shouting - "My mail! Don't forget my mail!"

>44 jnwelch: Joe, it makes me feel better that I am not the only one who didn't quite get it. I suppose Jim won't be too enthusiastic about answering any of my questions in the future. He paid me a compliment by giving me the tough truth (thinking I might get it?) and I zoned. I'm glad we have Jim, too.

>45 phebj: Pat - less keystrokes in Cee. I'd go with it too. Oh wait. I did.
My clivia plant NEVER moves anywhere. Since it has come into my house and proved it could survive, I have not moved it more than an inch or two to dust/vacuum. I'm not messing with success.

The first year my Mom moved in with us she kept after me (persistently to the point of nausea) "Why don't you move your plants outside for the summer?" She, being from Florida, didn't see any harm in it. So - I moved a huge palm tree and a few hardy plants out to the balcony. That summer (and only that summer) it rained and rained and rained! It never let up. It was incredible. The sun hardly ever popped out. The plants I moved outside totally drowned and died. Of course, having dementia, she didn't remember any of it the next year and started in again. OY.

CEE!!! I like your new user name!! I keep thinking about changing mine. I applaud your courage in just taking the plunge!

>48 EBT1002: Thanks. I've been thinking about this for a few years. It was't a snap decision ... lol. It was truly easy on my part. Go for it, Ellen.

>47 -Cee-: I've learned to my great chagrin not to interfere with a plant when it's clearly doing well. I've lost so many after transplanting them because they had clearly overgrown their original containers. *Sniff*

>50 Smiler69: Me too Ilana. I'm very nervous about trying to re-pot the clivia and will at least wait till after the grand 2014 blossoming. I just hope the pot lasts that long. It's truly crumbling. Every time I touch it, a piece breaks off :(

I am thinking about changing my username to Marky-Mark and the Funky Bunch, but I probably won't.

I'll bet no one else has that user name.

LOL! Good point! I think I'll stick with boring old MSF59. It's who I am.

>52 msf59: I can call you Marky, if you like that ;-))

Hi CeeSis! I really loved your visits to my threads!

On the re-planting thing. I had an Orchid that I replanted, it's looking really poorly now.

>51 -Cee-:, maybe if you wait til warmer weather and just go up to a pot a wee bit smaller and made of the same thing?

So Cee... I am sending good energy for Woolly and for you. I know what a worry it is... and will look for news.

hugs

Hi Connie and Kath!
I will wait as long as I can on the re-potting... but the pot it's in now is truly shaky.

*Woolly news*
Poor 17 y/o baby girl. She is rather po'd right now. Hissing at all of us. I took her to a new vet and she was being so good till they took her in the back. That's when things started to click for the girl and she knew what was up :p~

Anyway, they did not have to gas or inject her to sleep. I think they are much better handlers than where we went before.
She weighed 7.2 pounds - down from 9.5 four years ago, 8.3 two years ago. She is slowly and surely continuing to lose. And since she is not eating well the last couple months - I don't think she can afford to lose much more.
They took blood and urine for a slew of tests. Also, of course, the stool specimen. Her mouth looked good - no oral disease, sores, or tumor. Her heart rate was 270! Oh yeah. She was scared. Vet said that's even high for a scared cat.

I should hear some results this afternoon. They are looking mainly for thyroid and kidney stuff first. Vet said x-rays may be needed. Waiting on that.

Ka-ching! $350

How many books would THAT buy?

Oh poor Wooly. Vet bills sure are nasty. I have insurance for all my kiddies, but with a $500 deductible per kid to keep the premiums down, things get expensive real quick. Unless heaven forfend there is need for a major intervention which often ends up costing the equivalent of a small car. Ok, maybe a used one. Eep! But even books are nothing compared to our darlings, right? Hope they find and fix what ails her.

So true. I was, of course, kidding about the books.
Woolly's bday is coming up. I told her this wonderful outing is her present ;) She wasn't impressed. Today she is Grumpy Cat.

I have caught up with you, Cee, only to see that you have changed your username! I like it! And your Clivia plant is absolutely stunning! I also fell in love with that poor little Bluejay in the snow - what a great photo!

Sorry to hear about poor Wooly's troubles. Hoping that her testing provides insight. Our little Bailey recently developed a heart murmur, and his testing showed an enlarged right side of the heart and a collapsed trachea, so now he is on meds - so far so good, but it is hard to see our beloved pets aging, isn't it? Sending you good thoughts and hoping that Thursday is being kind to you.

>59 -Cee-: I was, of course, kidding about the books.

No you weren't! :-b :-)

I would have said the same thing. Of course we gladly dish out what he have to for our little loves, but vet pills aren't exactly satisfying the way books are. I was just being sentimental as I was enjoying the midday hours lounging in bed with my three little luvs and iPad, which has become something of a (bad) habit I'm afraid... but oh so enjoyable! Always delaying the moment when I must get up and move around and realize the migraine is still there... *sigh*. Poor Wooly, what a b-day gift. At least she's getting plenty of treats these days. {{{hugs to you both}}}

#15 Grumpy Cat: A Grumpy Book by Grumpy Cat 4 stars



Speaking of grumpy cats - this book is so funny! I loved it. After the lengthy books I have been reading, this was a great palate cleanser.

I'm behind in just about everything (except maybe astrobiology) so it should come as no surprise to anyone that I just this week heard of Grumpy Cat. I'm an instant fan! Although Grumpy Cat is actually a sweet and content kitty, Nature has given her a unique look.
(from the internet http://www.grumpycats.com/ )


From the book:
"If you don't have anything nice to say .... GOOD"
"If you're happy and you know it .... Get away from me"
"They say your face uses more muscles to frown than to smile ....
I like to stay in shape"
The photos make each page truly hilarious.
So add the pictures, advice, puzzles, pop quiz and LOL!

Your plants are already not only budding but starting to bloom?! What gorgeous colors to brighten up your house. Alas, since I'm away for 2 weeks again, 'tis not time for me to be buying any house plants as they'll all just die before I get home.

>62 -Cee-:

"They say your face uses more muscles to frown than to smile ....
I like to stay in shape"

LOL :-D

I've seen this kitty around the net. Hope I can find it at the library. She's too funny. Didn't know she was a she. Also didn't know it was just one cat. Thought maybe it was a special breed.

eta: not at the library, but the Kindle was just $2 so I splurged!

Hi Cee, I've been away for a bit and now I come back to your lovely new thread and your new, but very familar moniker.

I read The Curse of Chalion last year and loved it. Recently I read the second in the Chalion trilogy, Paladin of Souls and, for me, it was even better. I have become a big fan of Lois McMaster Bujold.

*Woolly Update*
Vet called this afternoon (I really like her.) The basic blood work all looks good :-) The urinalysis was fine :-) There are still a few tests to come in... maybe by the beginning of next week. X-rays might be indicated - possible ultrasound of abdomen... next week. Whatever it is, it's not wanting to show itself. So. We wait.

>60 Crazymamie: Hi there, Mamie. I know. That poor little blue jay on a very blustery day... Sorry to hear about Bailey. Loki has had a heart murmur for years. Apparently it isn't an issue for him. Dogs just don't last long enough. They should have double their life span, at least. Good that meds can control his problem.
"collapsed trachea" - is that when they struggle to breathe and make a honking sound? We had a little dog that did that. Made us crazy but she always pulled out of it. Sheesh!

>61 Smiler69: Every expense I have gets scrutinized in value by what it would get me for books! (Not that I really need any more - well... wait. Yes I do!)
btw, YouTube has a few offerings featuring Grumpy Cat. Her real name is Tartar Sauce. Her blue eyes are so beyond beautiful.
You'll probably want to scratch my eyes out when you see how tiny the Kindle print is for this book. Knowing you love beautiful books, you may be rather disappointed. I couldn't adjust the size on this one :p I figured it was cheap enough to get out my glasses. If you get this in color it will be better. My Kindle is a PaperWhite. Still I really loved it and it made me laugh. Check out the cross word puzzle. lol
Thanks for the hugs ;-)

>63 cameling: I know Caro... your job does not fit in with plants and pets :( But what a job it is! There are other perks.
I meant to take another picture of my plant blooming today but was too busy and now it's dark. Don't want to disturb its circadian rhythm with a flash. I'll try again tomorrow.

>65 DeltaQueen50: Welcome back, Judy! See? I did choose the right username. Most all my friends have seen it before and make the connection. Good job.
I was holding my breath as I read your comment re Paladin of Souls. I did (and did not) want you to say it was just as good or better. Now I HAVE to get to it relatively soon. Add me to Bujold's list of fans *sigh*

Oh dear, Cee, I'm sorry to hear about Woolly's health concern. I've been through that kitty losing weight worry and I know how scary and frustrating it can be.

I hope your vet is able to determine what the problem is and is able to offer some help.

Hugs and chin scratches to you both (you can figure out which is which...)! :)

>39 -Cee-: OMG - you understood him??? I feel so 20th century. ah well.
LOL
Ah well, at least we can say (and understand) lol and omg ;)
(btw, lol does not mean 'lots of love', like I initially thought it did )

I hope under-the-weather-Woolly is looking up! Or being diagnosed. That would be a good place to start.

I'm sorry to hear about Woolly being ill. I hope the vet can do something. Keeping my fingers crossed for Woolly.

I posted some pictures of your new niece and nephew on my thread. Just go and have a look if you feel like it. ;-))

http://www.librarything.nl/topic/168675#4585104

>69 connie53: Connie I went to your thread... I wasn't able to comment there? But it is colorful and beautiful!
Your niece reminds me of my daughter :)

>66 -Cee-: Cee dear, I hope today is a breakthrough day for Wooly, and she eats everything in sight.
IT is just so hard when they are sick.

>70 mckait: That's strange, Kathleen. I don't know why that is the case. I did not block anything. Maybe it has something to do with languages and being logged in?

>66 -Cee-: Yep. That's exactly what a collapsed trachea is - apparently it's fairly common in small breed dogs when they get older. The medicine he is on is because the right side of his heart is enlarged, which is what is causing the murmur. Like Connie, I'm also crossing my fingers that you get news about Woolly that lets you fix the problem. SO hard to know that something is wrong but not have any idea what it is.

LT pets are sure taking a beating this year...

Here's the fragile, broken pot I'm talking about... scary!

>67 Copperskye: Joanne, When you only weigh 9 pounds, a loss of 2+ is a concern to me. At first I was calling it old age. Now that she is only eating treats (with gusto, I might add!) I'm really wondering. I gave Woolly a hug and a chin scratch - and I took a hug. Was that right?

>68 LovingLit: Megan, Woolly being diagnosed would definitely help me, if not her. But, when mouth looks good and blood and urine come back normal I have to wonder how bad can it be? *sigh* I'm not looking for trouble but I don't want her to have a steady diet of treats or starve... neither are options!
btw, I like Lots of Love better ;-)

>69 connie53: Your threads are so cool, Connie. I love all your pictures.
Jeroen is a handsome dude :-) and Eveline is beautiful! (Great picture with the wine glass.) They look happy with their significant others. A family to be proud of.
When I went over to your ROOT thread this morning, I was not able to comment either. It looks like it is fine now. Must be fixed.

>70 mckait: Kath - Woolly does not act sick. She just won't eat and losing weight.
I'm starting to wonder why my pets can't be diagnosed. Is this a common thing or am I cursed? I don't mind spending $$$ if it is productive. It seems I am just pouring it down the drain when I don't get an answers. I might try experimenting with other cat food - but I don't see this as a hopeful path considering past attempts.

>72 Crazymamie: OY... I sure remember well the collapsed trachea issue. Even when the vet told me it would be ok, my heart would still seize up whenever the dog couldn't breathe like that. Everything in our house would stop and we all held our breath until the attack was over.

Hi -Cee-Sis thanks for your kind words and I'm very proud of my kids! I love them to pieces, but I think (almost) every mum does that.

I'm glad everyone can post again on my threads. I sooooooooo like having visitors!

Cee.. I was coming here to give you a scratch on the chin, but I see someone has already done that..

Good that she isn't acting sick. Who knows what it could be... frustrating.. I have been down that What Is It Anyway?!?!? path too many times. It is frustrating and maddening and .. worse, I know.

Well here you are! xo How was yesterday ? You have such a busy life! Have fun today and give Wooly a smooch for me..

>74 -Cee-: I see what you mean. And yes, it really needs a new place to live. I would wait till the flower is gone again.

Connie,
I need to get some more recent pictures of my kids/grands. I always take my camera with me when I visit - but forget all about it mostly. I'm not much of a photographer.
And, yes. I will wait for the "Great Transplanting" to take place until the flower is done.

Kath,
Woolly ate some of her cat food the other day. Not much, but it gave me hope. Since then... nothing but treats. I think I will go to the store and see if there is any such thing as crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside cat food. Maybe she will think they are treats if the texture is the same. That girl is skin and bones :(
We went to a benefit spaghetti supper last night with the most excellent meat sauce. They had live music, 2 comedians, a live auction and a silent auction. It was really good. Much more of a turnout than I expected. Don't know how much they made yet, but people seemed generous.
After the supper we went to set all Mom's clocks ahead. Didn't want her to miss any meals or whatever. I worry too much.
***************

I'm so confused about the time this morning. We set almost all the clocks ahead last night. The clock near my bed also set itself ahead AGAIN - another hour. So some clocks have the old time, some the right time, and one is 2 hours ahead of yesterday. Good thing I don't have to go to work!
Anyway, that will be my task today - getting all the clocks to agree to the minute!

I'm reading Music & Silence by Rose Tremain (rec by Ilana) and finding it engaging. I know that is an over-used word but it fits well in this case. Some characters are delightfully scandalous and others are dreadfully lost souls. I can't even guess how this will all end... but it's an amusing and pitiful journey.

Also slowly working my way through The Color of Lightning by Paulette Jiles as my bedtime read. What a mistake. It's about the history of early settlers in Texas and gruesome Indian raids and captures. Rather tough to read before trying to sleep. I don't always make the best choices - but the book has its merits and I will continue on.

Your clocks have minds of their own!!!!!

I am so envious of your clivias! One of my orchids seems to be planning to bloom. I'm back down to two as one croaked at some point last year. The other one is not looking as healthy. I can't figure out when to cut off leaves that get leathery and wrinkled, so it would look better if I did excise those I suppose, but I'm always leery of that until I'm sure they are good and gone.

Also THRILLED that you love the Chalion Bujolds! They are among my favorites of hers.

>80 -Cee-: Do you have the clock thing this weekend? We have it planned for the last weekend of march!

>81 sibylline: Hi Lucy!
I am THRILLED to have discovered Bujold through LT. If her other books are similar, I might have a new fav author on my hands.

I got three orchids a few years ago. Two are left. One is "thinking about" producing buds at the moment, but I fear it looks a little deformed. I know what you mean about the "leaves that get leathery and wrinkled". I have no idea how to make them look better w/o killing off the plant entirely. Orchids are NOT among my few successes :(

>82 connie53: Hi Connie!
Yup. The clock thing. I hate it. I wish they would just stick to standard time. I'm getting too old for this! And the dog gets confused too.
So. You have it too. Phooey... the whole world is nuts! If Arizona (USA) wasn't so hot, I'd consider moving there. They don't have any time changes.

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

Tried to paint my living room ceiling today and it came out AWFUL!
I think I need to get a different paint roller and try again. OMG.
The second coat has GOT to look better or NO company ever again!
My arms, neck and back are killing me. I'll take a day off to recuperate first. I'll read. ha!

Omg, you poor thing, having to repaint the CEILING of all things! Such hard work. I've never repainted my apartment since the first time when I moved in nearly 14 years ago now, save for the kitchen and bedroom which have gone through a few colour changes. It's all getting quite grubby but I just haven't got the courage. I'll probably end up using my "emergency savings" fund to pay someone to do it eventually when I can't stand it anymore. That day is fast approaching.

I'm very happy when daylight savings time begins, but yes, totally ridiculous to have to do this clock change twice a year, much agreed.

and...

>82 connie53: I find it even more frustrating due to the fact that I have to try to figure out what the time is in France too, where my mother lives since of course here in NA and Europe do the time change at different dates. Can it get more confusing?!

Cee. Reconsider. No one looks up... how bad could it be?
Was that just a random impulse paint? Did you find a can of paint and think! Oh Boy! I can paint the ceiling? That has never, ever happened to me . I hate to paint!!!

I did the usual Sunday stuff yesterday. A random load of laundry.. made dinner... blah blah.

And then I ate junk food, read and watched TV. I have been hurty all over lately... for no reason. I hope your hurties go away today :)

Morning,Cee. Your new name is easy to spot. I'm glad you chose Kath's nickname; to me it's perfect for you. Wait...does that even make sense?

I'm very sorry to learn about Wooly's problem. Sickness in pets is extremely upsetting, isn't it? Do you find yourself asking her what is wrong and seriously hoping she'll respond? I do that.

And pet insurance--good idea.

Here's hoping that this week will be better.

Oh! Serious envy of that gorgeous clivia!

>84 Smiler69: Ilana, I don't mind painting at all... EXCEPT for the blasted ceilings! Reaching up all the time gets to my shoulders and back. I figure I will try one more time with a new roller. If that doesn't work, it's for sure I will be looking for someone else to do it. I did get a quote a few years ago - I think it was $2-3k for my ceilings in living room, dining room, hall, and stairs. It's probably double that now :p~

>85 mckait: Kath - yes they do! Even if they didn't mean to, anyone's attention would be drawn to the ceiling's ugliness and streaks now. It's bad. I was in a bit of pain last night - but seem better today.
No random impulse this... I need to do over the LR, etc but the ceiling must be done first. This has been nagging me for years. I was going at it pretty good till I was hit by surgery, etc.
I hate to paint ceilings - Ron hates to paint everything. It's looking more and more like we need a profe$$ional.
YOU ate junk food? Ach no!

>86 Matke: "Do you find yourself asking her what is wrong and seriously hoping she'll respond?"
Not so much the cat, Gail - but the vet? YES!
I get very frustrated when I can't get a good diagnosis. I have been doing some of my own internet research and I think I have it figured out. Looks to me like chronic kidney failure due to aging. She is 17. It seems pretty common and the first signs of it come later in the process (when the kidneys are not functioning well) and include a lot of drinking water, dilute urine, no appetite for food, and weight loss. Now that I am paying more close attention, I see this has been going on for awhile. There is no cure for it.

I hope all my bragging of the clivia will not curse me now. But it's probably the best thing a plant has ever done for me - ever. Just needed to share.

>#80 Oh Cee. I so feel your pain at that blasted clock that wants to do its own Daylight Savings Time on the old system. We have the same blasted time machine. Bob and I have begun treating it like a bad parrot and putting a hood over it until we get synced again. It really threw us for a loop the first time it happened, and it took us about 3 cycles to figure out what was happening. So now, we do NOT change that clock, we let it do its thing and just ignore it for several week. Wouldn't it be nice if we could do the same for Congress?

{{{Wooly + Cee}}}

About the orchid thing! You all would not want to see mine! (Yes, I have one) It's not a beautiful sight.

Ceiling painting: We need to do that soon too. But I dread the idea of packing my books and get all the furniture out of the room. So we have been postponing painting with great succes for 3 years now! Whenever I get an urge like that I will go and read a book!

Luckily, I don't have any problem with the daylight saving time stuff. I like it when my evenings with daylight are longer. More reading time in the garden!

>88 tututhefirst: Hahahaha! clock = "a bad parrot"! Too funny, Tina!

I have to admit, I actually DO try to ignore Congress - but it would definitely make a statement if we were to cover it up with a hood for several weeks ;-)

>89 Smiler69: Thanks, Ilana. hugs back xoxo

>90 connie53: Sis, I'm beginning to think that orchids are not supposed to be pretty? Except for maybe the flowers which have not been faithful for me at all.
We are just moving furniture and covering the book shelves to do the ceiling. When I get to the walls I will have to actually take the books off the shelves, etc. Oh dear, what have I started?

***************
Finished a book! Yay - it was a really good one. Thanks for the rec Ilana.

Hi Claudia- Just strolling through. How are you? Actually I've wanted to read The Color of Lightning for quite awhile and have a nice hardback sitting on shelf.
I am loving Suttree. This could easily be 3 great AAC books in a row.

#16 Music & Silence by Rose Tremain 4.5 stars


Historical fiction: Denmark 1629-30
King Christian IV and his court

A variety of love stories and betrayals are interwoven to produce a complex tapestry of hard living and day dreaming in this delectable 17th century novel with so many robust characters to enchant and repulse every reader.
The king was love-struck and his country was in financial ruin. Get-rich-quick schemes ran amok as did his marriage. Many sub-plots include suspicion, lies, luxury, poverty, mental anguish, cunning schemes, pleasure, suffering of the soul, power, abuse, and wretched death.
Is there a happy ending for anyone?

As I was reading this book, I wondered how much of it was true. I looked it up! I was surprised to find many characters and events were real.

Hi Mark!
Good to see you here ;-) I think you would like The Color of Lightning.
I am about to start my McCarthy choice All the Pretty Horses. I have a feeling IF there are horses, they are probably NOT pretty. But I can delude myself till I get there.

Pretty Horses is a wonderful book. I hope it works for you.

Hi Cee,
I am sorry to hear about Wooly's health concerns. And yes, the vet bill would have bought a lot of books, but the time with that cat is irreplaceable. I hope she continues to hang in there. Give her a scritch behind the ear for me (I know, that may be less than fully her thing). xo

Glad you're finding good reading! How is Wooly today? Are you painting?

>95 msf59: Started Pretty Horses and find this is about 200 years (?) ahead in time in Texas (approx. same location) from the other book I am reading Color of Lightning.
I feel like I did some time traveling ;-)

>96 EBT1002: Hi Ellen,
Yeah - Woolly is priceless. I'm waiting for a call from the vet tomorrow to see what some test results are and what the next step will be. She just won't eat her regular food but before I start trying multitudes of others I'd like to know more of what she needs. It seems vomiting has been added to her symptoms now.
She thanks you for the scratch. Lovin' is one thing she can't get enough of...

>97 mckait: Kath, Tried another roller pad. Went over the first coat of what I did the other day and it looks better - let's say good enough but not 100% pleasing. Then tried a first coat in an unpainted place with the new roller and it was terrible. So - I guess it just needs 2 (or more) coats. Changing the roller did not help the first coat. I'm pretty unhappy that I HAVE to do at least 2 coats. So much ceiling. So little muscle power :p~
And, btw, I am using Sherwin Williams paint which is good stuff. So, it's not the paint. Now I think the texture of the ceiling sucks... or doesn't suck enough (paint).
Woolly may be going back to the vet tomorrow. Sssshh - don't breathe a word of it to her :(

Good luck at the V E T, Sis!

>98 -Cee-: Ugh, ceilings are the worst. I always do two coats. Are you using a ladder and short handle, or long handle from the floor?

I do NOT envy you this task ... I hate to paint.

Sorry to hear that you need to make a return trip... sending good energy >>>>>>>>>

Let me know how things are going okay?

>99 connie53: Thanks, Sis. I'm trying to get used to the idea that Woolly is indeed 17 years old (84 for cats) and old age is likely to be her problem for which there is no cure. I'm always afraid with my pets that I won't know when to let go... or will make the decision too quick. I hate end of life stuff. I don't want to be in charge and make decisions.

>100 qebo: Katherine, I always do 2 coats (occasionally more) of paint on the walls and woodwork - but I was hoping in vain that one coat would be ok for the ceiling. NOT. I'm using a short handle roller and climbing the ladder. I could never control a long handle and look up that far all the time. *resigned sigh*

>101 mckait: Kath, I haven't found anyone who likes to paint ceilings. Maybe that is why to have someone else do it costs so much. They know we hate it!
I am nervous about another visit for poor little (and getting smaller) Woolly. I'm supposed to give her gabapentin liquid to calm her before we go. By the time she gets any of it in her, we'll all be wrecks! You know I will let you know whatever I find out. Don't have a lot of hope right now.

{{{{Cee}}}}

{{{{Wooly}}}}

Hi Cee, I'm just stopping by to check in on Woolly. Hope tomorrow goes well!

Hi Claudia- I love those Western-Themed current reads! Cool!

Towel, wrap her tight....get it in her by dropper in the side of her mouth....good luck

Sending good health mojo for Wooly and a hug for you. Good luck getting the meds in....

Woolly update:
Now she won't eat more than a couple treats and occasionally unswallows the few she does eat.
I talked to the vet today (finally). Nothing abnormal on any of her tests. What's left? X-rays, ultrasound, more expensive blood tests. We discussed the fact that anything further tests would show is all stuff for which there is no cure... pancreatitis, thyroid, liver, kidneys, etc. I would not agree to surgery at her age. So whatever we do would only be palliative care.
I'm bringing her to the vet on Friday for fluid, appetite stimulant, anti-nausea, and possibly cortisone injections. I'm still debating x-rays. We'll see what happens and take things as they come.

Thanks for the good thoughts and wishes.

Oh Cee, I'm so sorry about Woolly. We went through the same thing with our cat, Smokey, a couple years ago. I was so hoping you'd get better news today.

The fluids will help her feel a little better.

Hugs to you.

I know I've said this before, but I can't find words, so {{{{{Claudia+Wooly}}}}}

So sorry to hear about Wooly, Cee.

Oh no :( Poor Woolly. I'm so sorry Cee...The fluids will help. I hope something does... and soon.
hugs

Oh, poor Woolly. Thinking of you both.

It's just one of those days:

<35 &

Claudia- I am so sorry to hear about Woolly. Here's a HUG, my friend!

>114 -Cee-: LIKE that pic!

Hope you get better news today about Woolly. She has been on my mind, as have you. sending hugs to both of you ...

Thanks for the hugs, Mark & Kath. A good start to the day.

pre-vet medicine administered (to Woolly, not me though I could use some)
Are her eyes droopier than usual? hmm

So - last night sometime she ate almost 6 pieces of her dry cat food!

Holding both you and Wooly in my thoughts, Cee.

Oh Cee... no words again, so more {{{hugs}}}. xx

WOOLLY Update:

Home again, home again - jiggety jig!

X-ray was very interesting, but didn't show any abnormalities. I did NOT opt for the pacreatitis blood test or ultrasound.
Poor little Woolly got several injections: anesthesia, cortisone, fluids, appetite stimulant, anti-nausea ... well, 6 injections in all.

The vet said we could take her home even though she doesn't usually let them go so soon after anesthesia, but felt the cat would calm down better at home as long as we watched her closely.
She staggers sideways like a drunken sailor and can't jump up or down. I had to hold her for about 1.5 hours to protect her from herself.
We know the appetite stimulant works. We gave her some special food from the vet and she ATTACKED it. Couldn't eat it fast enough or get enough of it. On the second helping, she showed no signs of slowing down. I finally had to take the bowl away so she wouldn't eat too much at once.

She's been napping in the sun ever since and is trying to wake up - but can't yet. Whew! Strong stuff for a little girl.

Thanks for all the hugs and positive thoughts.

fingers crossed...

keep up the good work Woolly!

Woolly is walking, climbing, jumping up and down to get to things. But no more eating. So much for the stimulant and yesterday's ordeal. *sigh*

I'm sorry to be so obsessed with this. I'll stop now :(
**********************

Books:
I'm definitely liking All the Pretty Horses. McCarthy has punctuation and sentence structure problems, but easy to read and NOTHING like Faulkner. No comparison.

I'm interested in Wooly updates Claudia, you have nothing to apologize about, she is your baby after all. News yesterday was encouraging. Good new she's moving around today. She might get hungry after her workout. Xx

>123 -Cee-: Are you kidding? I'm obsessed with it. I am so worried about her, too :(
Please keep us posted and try tuna?

Thanks for the encouragement Ilana and Kath. I'll just have to wait and see what happens in the next couple of days.

She will not eat tuna. No interest. Tried that several times. Warm, cold, on a plate, in a bowl, hand feeding, mixed with cat food ...
You know that old saying "You can lead a cat to tuna, but you can't make her eat!"

I'm not gonna harass her with food today. She knows where it is if she gets hungry. The anesthesia may still be working its way through her - in addition to whatever is wrong. I know all intake and output systems are functioning. It's up to her now... at least until I get crazy again.

I'll try the hospital can of cat food later - maybe tonight.

I know my two kiddies refuse to eat anything but what they're used to: Wellness wet food for Mimi and PureVita dry kibbles for Ezra. I've many times tried feeding them various varieties of fish, fresh, tinned, dry, and they won't touch it. Unlike dogs, cats are really tricky with food. Mind you, Coco's quite particular too, the major difference is he likes lots of variety in his diet...

Wish you both well. xx

Whenever we or someone in our care is under the weather, we can't help being obsessed! Not that I think you are. And we are all concerned, too. I don't know if you saw my comment above, but I've been in a similar position and I know how frustrating and heartbreaking it is.

Will Woolly eat poached, shredded chicken? I know the prescription food (k/d, anyway), is kind of bland. Maybe some bits of chicken mixed in would help?

More hugs being sent your way.

Or chicken broth?

None of my kitties are too particular. They pretty much eat whatever I give them, thank goodness! And they do enjoy a nice dish of broth now and then. I always have it around ( low sodium) as I use it on Duncan's food every day.

Good thinking to heat it btw. That brings out the smell and can sometimes entice them.

Hi Claudia- Glad you are enjoying Pretty Horses. Thanks for reminding me about Blood and Thunder. I dropped the ball on that one but of course I know you will forgive me. Grins...

ETA- Yah, for Woolly!!

Hi dear Sis, I've been trying to catch up with threads but it takes time.

I'm so glad that Woolly is still around. Big hugs for you both!

Oh dear me Claudia, just now I had to go back to your review of Behind the Beautiful Forevers to see what it was about this book that made you love it so much and made you think I would love it too. I can't read the author's blurb because I've got the audio version and so far it's just bleak, bleak, bleak, and I'm not one of those readers who takes comfort in knowing there are others who are much worse off and ends up feeling like life is pretty good after all, as I'm sure you must know. But if you say things will take some kind of turn, as you did imply in your review, then I'll take your word for it. But in the meantime, I'm really struggling over here. I often listen to books, usually do, actually, as I'm preparing food and eating, and so far this one has pretty much grossed me out. Sorry about all the complaining, but I was just feeling a bit discouraged there at the prospect that I still have more than four hours of that to go. But I will persevere! For a while.

eta: I'm about to send you a PM after thinking it through some more as I was writing about it on my own thread. Just can't do it. I'm sorry.

Hi Cee, please continue to post updates on Wooly. I think we are all interested in and are rooting for her.

>87 -Cee-: Ilana, I don't mind painting at all... EXCEPT for the blasted ceilings!
I like painting too; prep? NO. Actual painting yes. But- and this is a bit but- only if there are no little kids running about who tip up paint pots, plaster their hands on wet paint or sand the wrong places with coarse sandpaper.
I have friends who were able to paint their places in the presence of toddlers. I was incredulous at this notion. But then they reminded me that there are some kids who just sit there pottering about with their own thing. And mine are/were not that kind :)

>108 -Cee-: oh no! How upsetting and worrying :(

>127 Smiler69: Thanks for the good wishes, Ilana. Dogs are so much easier to feed than cats. Especially at my house. (Loki will eat anything.) I tried the hospital canned cat food tonight. No dice! She would not get anywhere near the plate. I left it for awhile. She didn't care whether I was interested or not. She wasn't!
>132 Smiler69: Look at the bright side. Now you get to pick out a new book ;-)

>128 Copperskye: Joanne, I will try a little chicken for Woolly next time I make it. Can't say I have a lot of hope... but I'll try anything that might work. Thanks for the continuing hugs :-)

>129 mckait: I'll try broth, too. But - Again. I have serious doubts. She is just not easily influenced.

>130 msf59: OK. I'll forgive you this time, Mark. But you must bookhorn it in someday.

>131 connie53: Yes, Sis. Woolly is still around - we'll see how long a cat can survive on generating vet bills and eating a few treats - very few.

>133 DeltaQueen50: Judy, I appreciate the concern of all. I will keep posting updates because I must. Hopefully, they will diminish as time goes by and we figure this out... one way or another. *sigh*

>134 LovingLit: Hi Megan! I have a cute story of a toddler and painting.
My own toddler was beginning the process of potty training when we were painting the outside of the house. She was in the yard with us for awhile and came over to talk to us. She innocently sat down right on the wet cover of the paint can and caught heck for getting full of paint!
Took her in the house and put on a movie or something for her while we finished up. She was starting over with renewed instructions and dry training pants. When we came in awhile later, her panties were still dry. And her potty chair was partially filled. She had taken it upon herself to do the right thing. That was it! She was trained from then on. We were shocked.
That was freaking easy.

>135 -Cee-: Nice story, Sis!

So disappointed to hear that Wooly isn't eating yet. I am out of ideas, so now I am just sending get better fast energy her way :(

hugs to you

>93 -Cee-: Haven't read that one by Tremain but she does do the genre very well, I think.

Hope you have a wonderful Sunday, dear lady.

>136 connie53: Ha! See what a smart niece you have? I hope she never finds out I put a story of her potty training on the internet!

>137 mckait: Thanks, Kath. I am stumped too and it is frustrating. She has started eating a few select treats once in awhile. The I/D dry food that she inhaled (that once when she first got home)... she is totally shunning now. We keep offering different things, but no luck. I guess that appetite stimulant works once and done. I would have thought it would last a bit longer - like a few days? Not so.

>138 PaulCranswick: Paul, I had heard of Rose Tremain but had not read any of her books. She's written quite a lot. Hoping to try another of hers.

Checking in to see how Wooly is doing (by the way, have I mentioned that I love that name?!). Cee, you have no need to apologize for being "obsessed" with her well-being. Our animals are part of our lives and their health matters. You know that many of us here understand on a very visceral level. I'm sorry that her appetite is so capricious. Poor little cat. (((((Wooly)))))

I have only read The Road Home by Tremain (gift from Paul for being first on one of his threads) and I loved it. I'll certainly be reading more by her.

>140 EBT1002: Hey, I certainly understand. I almost postponed my wedding because of our 'Doortje' (a cat) being ill the night before.

>139 -Cee-: I keep my fingers crossed for not being found out ;-))

>2 -Cee-:...Of course, I love this image.

Fingers crossed for Wooly...sending prayers and all good wishes.

Hi Ellen,
Some little good news about Woolly: She is eating a bit more lately. 15 pieces of her cat food last night! She also took quite a bit of interest in the progress of my painting the ceiling. She helped by almost staying out of the way, checking out the sheets I had thrown over the bookcases, and sitting nearby quietly supervising. It's really all up to her now.

Connie,
Oh my! The night before your wedding and a sick kitty. Like you weren't stressed enough.

Thanks, Linda.
Now that she's recovered from the anesthesia, she seems to be perking up a little. I'm sure she is trying her best to feel well as she really hates going to the vet. Being old is no easy job. She is equivalent to 84 y/o in human years. When she looks in the mirror now she asks herself - who is that old gray lady? My question to my own reflection... lol

Hi Claudia, was coming in to see news about Wooly. Glad to know she's doing better. My little ones are my children, so I too only understand too well how distressing it is when one of our beloved critters isn't doing well.

I'm really pleased you enjoyed your first experience reading Rose Tremain. I'd been wanting to read some of her work for many years, and found Music & Silence to be a great introduction to her work. I've also got The Colour and Restoration currently on the tbr and look forward to getting to them both. I'll try to fit in at least one of those this year.

Finished
#18 All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy 4.8 stars



This book is outstanding.
Impressively written.
In my opinion the only comparison that can be made to Faulkner's writing is the stylistic use of the run-on sentence. Excessive in Faulkner; artistic in McCarthy. Faulkner's books leave me offended and depressed; McCarthy's leave me touched and thoughtful.

McCarthy's book has heart... and moral values. The story is provocative as are the characters. John Grady, the main character, has a yearning for what was and what could be - both proving to be elusive in spite of his determination. However, he never gives up. Honor, blood, and truth make the man.

The first book of a trilogy. I expect the next two will captivate me as well because of the author's ability to portray characters and their personal realities.

Hi Ilana,
Woolly's fur is not so beautiful right now. She is a bit matted down from all her sleeping and looks dull :(
But every piece of food she eats makes my heart sing!
Thanks for checking in on her.

BTW, If you have another Tremain book you want to read - PLEASE do so and let me know how it is. Now that I know a little more of your current tastes - please substitute a Tremain for anything I have suggested for you this year. It will do us both a favor... cuz if you find another good book by Tremain, I will add it to my WL and we'll both be happy ;-)

Hope your day is sunny!

>145 -Cee-: Claudia, I see we are both in complete agreement about All the Pretty Horses. I reviewed it in the last few days and gave it an equivalent rating too, with 4⅞ stars. Same impression on McCarthy vs. Faulkner too, though I've only read two books by the former and 1.1 books by the latter. Same expectations of the next two books, which I'm hoping I can squeeze in soon.

I guess one of the giveaways when cats are unwell is the texture and lustre (or lack of) of their coats. I'm glad too Wooly's nibbling her food at least. Always a good sign, that. I do wish our little ones had at least double their life-span. I've been practically brainwashing myself for years now with the idea that when my little ones... move to another plane, it'll only be another opportunity to rescue other poor critters in need of loving homes. Though I'm sure it won't take away the pain of seeing my beloved ones on the decline. But boy do they ever give us comfort and joy in the meantime, right? Has she been a cuddly cat? If she is, do give her an extra cuddle from me.

>146 -Cee-: I have every intention of reading Coventry by the way. I would do whether you'd picked it for me or not anyway. It doesn't follow that because the subject of a book is depressing that I won't like it. It's really up to the author's approach and my particular mindset when I pick it up. There is no reliable formula to help me figure out what will and won't work. Sometimes we agree, sometimes not. Keeps things interesting. Would be kinda boring if we could all tell in advance exactly what we thought of any one book, right? But yes, I will pick up at least one more Tremain this year and will be sure to let you know what I thought of it. I just finished reviewing Olive Kitteridge which I really had to force myself to finish and have put in an apology to Pat, since it was her pick and I know she'll be disappointed I didn't love it too. Doesn't mean I hold it against her in the least. I almost feel an obligation to love books people have picked for me, but that's plain silly. I wanted to read it eventually, and now I have, I know what it's about. Now I can move on to something else. I'm kinda hard to please these days it seems. If I do this challenge again next year (if there's anyone willing to participate again!), I'll pre-select books I'm almost certain of loving in advance. Plenty of those around, though there are always surprises, no matter what. Just like the rest of life.

{{{hugs}}}

Hi Sis, I'm so glad Woolly is taking up supervising again (and eating). That is a very good sign! I hope it stays that way!

>149 mckait: sending big appetite mojo to Woolly...careful not to get hit with any scattered bits...

xo

Claudia- What a glowing review of Pretty Horses. Yah! I can't stop smiling. I also felt the next 2 books were equally as good.

>83 -Cee-: - my orchids seem to last about 3 years - sometimes 4 and then they wither, literally. I've tired various things, but they just don't seem to last much longer than that for me, so I am resigned to it. Of my two, one is going to bloom, definitely, the other.... it did put up some nice new leaves and I'm trying to decide if I should or shouldn't prune off the leather ones.

Wooly - such a terrible worry. I think we're in similar boats right now. Our cat Simon, the tan one, is not doing so well, he's 12, so I'm with you with the worry. He eats mostly chicken (which I head a little in the micro) and broth. I roast a chicken every week and make broth and set aside some of the red meat and little fatty meat bits - he can't keep down crunchies at all any more. Very distressing. He gets a teaspoon of light cream a day too - I figure there's hardly any lactose and mostly fat which he needs. He's pretty happy though. It's hard keeping him out of the crunchies because of Ernie.... ok I'm going on and on about this.

I did the same thing with Music and Silence - isn't the internet great? You can look at paintings of the people and read all about whatever, the court and how it was. Wonderful. I love it when a novel I like does turn out to be as carefully researched as beautifully written.

I'm just popping in to see if there is any improvement for our favorite sweet Woolly?

>151 sibylline: What does the vet say? Twelve is fairly young for a cat...

I am hoping to relax and read today, and read.. we'll see. I hope that your ceiling is all done and that you can do some of that reading and relaxing, too, Cee.

Hi to Ilana, Connie, Kath, Mark, and Lucy!

Need to make my response fairly quick since I am going to bring Mom to the Dr - annual check-up soon.

Woolly Update:
I think she is getting better in general. It seems this will ultimately turn into good days/ bad days... and everything in between. I would say that's called 'getting old'. She's eating some nuggets of cat food and somewhat more treats. I am trying to slide the proportion towards a larger percentage of cat food, less treats. Of course, I am deluding myself. She is the one in control of this whole thing.

I take heart that she is attentive, responsive, and cuddly. I will keep trying different foods every so often to find something she likes and try to widen her choices when she is having an off day or two.
Of course this is driving our dog nuts! He wants every thing she is refusing and he can't have anything but his own restricted diet.

OK... now books:
So, I need to be looking for the rest of McCarthy's border trilogy and more Tremain novels. Oh yes, and WAY MORE time to read them all ;-)
Thanks for all the input on cats and books. What a group!

At the moment I am reading
Song of the Vikings by Nancy Marie Brown; LTER book about Icelandic history and myths - love it
also -
Fountain Filled with Blood by Julia Spencer-Fleming; my tip of the hat to Mystery March... book 2 of the series. Hey! That will fill one of my Bingo squares.

So how is everyone in your family? I have had you on my ind and hope things are on the upswing for Wooly, that mom is fine and that you get some time to relax :)

hugs

Cee, Between you and Ilana, I am moving All the Pretty Horses higher and higher in the stack....

Sending hugs to you and Wooly.

hey there, where are ya ? Hoping all is well....

Kath -
Everyone is fine. Thanks for the hugs :-)
Woolly seems slightly better - probably due to cortisone. We will be giving her a stool softener and oral appetite stimulant to help her along. I'll take her back to the vet in 3 weeks to be weighed. If she is gaining anything, we'll keep up the cortisone and check again. If she continues to lose, there is not much to do.

Mom is fine. At the doctor's yesterday he was asking her the list of basic memory questions, including "What's my name?" After a long, careful consideration Mom said "I'm sorry. I don't know. But you are awfully cute!"

Ron is happy. All income tax forms are mailed. Done.

I am struggling with a decision. But I'm leaning toward no. That would be a good answer for me ;-)
Tomorrow is my first class on 'Science of Self'. It was supposed to start last week but cancelled due to snow and ice. Rain (?snow) again tomorrow. It's supposed to be slightly warmer though.

Loki is A-OK. I think that covers all of us.

>155 EBT1002: Ellen, that would be a good plan. Move it on up ;-)
Ilana and I don't always see a book in the same light, but we will not hesitate to let you know just how we feel!
Thanks for the hugs :-)

**********************
So. I guess tomorrow is Spring!
Will we be able to notice a change?

LUCY -
Here is my best looking orchid. Not all that attractive - but still alive :-) I forget its name.
You can see I've been hacking away at some of the leaves.
There is a hard-to-see, small, skinny shoot popping up (about 1/4 of the way over from the right - above the date) that will hopefully be flowers. We'll see. If it doesn't produce this year, I'll be looking for a rain forest for it...

It was warmer in terms of temperature here today, but it was so humid I felt just as cold. I expect tomorrow, Spring or not, will be the same.

I don't necessarily see eye to eye about any given book with anyone, my dearest Claudia. It's always a case-by-case situation. But we are in strict accordance on All the Pretty Horses and Music & Silence too it seems. I hadn't though of looking up the factual parts of that novel by the way, so that's a short term project for me.

Glad to know the Wooly situation is stable. Not sure what to say about your mom forgetting her name, but she sure has a sense of repartee!

You should receive a little something in the mail in about a week or two.

{{{hugs}}}

>#145 Cee...I keep seeing, and going past the Pretty Horses but you've convinced me. Although I'm not doing to well with eye-reading at present, I was just able to download it as an audio, and I hope it lives up to expectations. THanks for the push.

hi Sis, just strolling by!

All my lab results were fine so now I can up the dose of medication on saturday.

>159 Smiler69: A little something in the mail? Oh! goodie, goodie! As long as it's not a bill :-}
I just want to say... if Woolly keeps scarfing down the Fancy Feast 'Filet Mignon and Shrimp' crunchy food, if it's THAT good - I might have to get some for us for dinner sometime. Easy to prepare. Just dump it out. Ha!
She has been eating more each day. I'm hopeful it's the cortisone working so we can keep her feeling better. Maybe gain a bit of weight.

>160 tututhefirst: Hi Tina! I hope the audio works well... I can only ever speak for the written word as audio never works for me :(
You have more expertise in listening, so hopefully you will enjoy!

>161 connie53: Oh that's really good news, Connie. Hope you get good results from the meds and feel like you are getting a new lease on life. Stroll by anytime, Sis!

Cee, I got horribly behind on your thread, and am late to the discussion of Woolly's health issues. I'm glad to hear that she's eating a bit more and perking up a bit. Hugs to you and Woolly!

ETA to add I really liked All the Pretty Horses, too. I agree about the difference in the use of the run-on sentences between McCarthy and Faulkner. McCarthy uses them artfully.

Ahhhh Fancy Feast dry. That is what I buy to trick my kitties into thinking they are having treats :) Good choice ! I'm sure she is feeling pretty good and is happy that her plan for a change of food worked :)

Seriously... glad she is doing better.

Also glad that life is being fairly kind to you lately.. at least it seems to be?

I am another who doesn't quite get the comparisons between Faulkner and McCarthy. I am reading Suttree and parts of it are both extremely accessible as well as mixing uproarious humour with clanging reality.

>157 -Cee-: Glad to see your Mom has retained her sense of humour even as her short-term memory gets a tad fuzzy.

Have a lovely weekend. xx

Hi Terri,
I truly think Woolly is coming around little by little. I say this with everything crossed for continued progress. We seem to have found the right combination of treats/food. I'm hoping it's the cortisone - something we can maintain. We both thank you for the hugs.

Kath,
I asked the vet if I am just creating a monster. She said "no - this is a sick kitty". I will buy her whatever she wants to eat and keep her comfortable as possible.
Life. It does seem to be taking a breather right now. Unfortunately, I think it is just because I have NO life right now to speak of... no fun - and I'm feeling a bit bored. I'm trying to get my ceilings painted so I can continue on with re-doing the LR. My shoulder has been in too much pain the last couple of days to keep going. So... it's gonna be a slow process. Luckily, I have reading!

Paul,
I'm glad to hear others express their opinion that McCarthy is no Faulkner. Thank goodness for that!
My Mom has always had a great sense of humor and is becoming an expert at getting around answering questions directly. Hmmm... maybe she would be a popular politician.
Hope your weekend is a great one, too. Looks like we might be getting another snow storm tomorrow. You? lol

Hi CEE, I'm stopping by to see how Wooly is today.

*Happy weekend wave*

I was hoping that the whole ceiling thing was finished, so sorry about that :( I hope your shoulder feels better soon...

The weekend is here, and ? Yay? I dunno. When weekends mean work, they lose a wee bit of their glitter...I work with Candy today, and that is a good thing. Why do I get so woe is me over working Saturday? Dunno. So many years of not having to, I guess.

Dinner out tonight? Hope something bright happens in your weekend ~

hugs

Hi Sis, nothing to say really. The weekend here is a quiet one. Peet went for drinks and playing cards with our son, our son in law and a friend with his son. Today grocery shopping and nothing. Just nothing but read and LT. The weather is back to rain and wind. So no gardening or sitting in the garden with a book.

Song of the Vikings: Snorri and the making of Norse Myths by Nancy Marie Brown (4 stars) LTER



Iceland, unique in its geography and historically fascinating, is steeped in Norse mythology and Viking adventure. Nancy Marie Brown gives us an overview of the country and the people as recorded in sagas and poetry, and focusing on the life of Snorri Sturluson, a wealthy and influential chieftain and writer of the twelfth century. Much of Norse mythology would have been lost had it not been for the efforts of Snorri, his friends, and relatives in preserving an ancient culture that has influenced several modern fantasy authors.

Icelandic genealogy, names, and language can be quite mind-boggling. Brown, however, has done well to make the reader feel about as comfortable as crashing a Norse family reunion. We are introduced to a large "family" that has been biologically, romantically, and politically arranged over the years to achieve power in the early Scandinavian world. As in all cultures, gathering and feasting are events of importance. Values are passed down from the very long ago in storytelling, disputes are settled, land and wealth are acquired, fighting breaks out, and marriages are arranged. A great part of the fun, the laws - as well as the enforcement, and psychological roots of behavior come from the legends of gods, men, and monsters - of Odin, Baldur, Loki, Thor, dwarfs, elves, wizards, giants, warriors, Valkyries, etc.

This is a book rich in Icelandic lore and personalities. It is well researched and easily readable. It brings this barren and haunting country alive. Having read this book enriches my memories of having personally been there. It's a harsh and beautiful land with an intriguing past to which Brown has done justice.

Of course, now I want to go back to Iceland - now that I know so much more about it. *maybe someday*

So happy to hear good news about Wooly. And no, I agree with your vet you aren't creating a monster. If she can't be overindulged in old age, then when? My as well make it as pleasant for her as possible, especially if it gives you relief to see her eat something in the process. I'm not sure why, but somehow my eyes glaze over when I see the word 'viking'. And yet I really enjoyed Beowulf (though disputable whether it is about the viking age, close enough for my purposes), which I never thought would be my 'thing'. Which is to say, I'm keeping an open mind.

eta: typos, what else?

Hi Cee, I am also very glad that Wooly is showing some improvement, bless her.

That would be a great book to read along with Independent People I'm thinking..... in fact - it would probably still be helpful to me all these years later.

I haven't even called the vet - decided that I would see if I could modify Simon's diet so he could 'keep it down' - way less crunchies at a time, and more soft food which I douse with broth. The broth/soft combo (I use the Wellness brand - turkey flavor is the only one they like) is wildly popular and in three days Simon is looking so much better and hasn't thrown up once. It does mean that every time anyone goes by the crunchie bowl and sees it is empty they have to line the bottom with a small handful..... a pain, but it is working, so I'm happy. And very relieved.

Happy for you too, that Wooly is doing better.

Good Wooly news! I am eagerly awaiting the years when I get to be a finicky eater. Nothing wrong with my appetite as I move into old age. Also. I hope I show the humor that your mother has. I loved her answer to her doctor about his cuteness. Your ceiling woes make my arms hurt. So sorry that a second coat is indicated, let's hope that paint lasts a long time.

>167 Whisper1: Hi Linda,
Thanks for stopping by. Woolly is different everyday. She is eating much better - but now she has a horrific cold. She's never had one before in her life. Poor little thing is constantly sneezing - 5-8 sneezes at a time! Her sneezes are so explosive! I'm just hoping she is somewhat better tomorrow. It's been 2 full days of sleeping and sneezing around here for her.
Hope you had a restful weekend and built up some energy.

>168 wilkiec: Hi Diana! Nice of you to stop in. I had a restful weekend... a little boring, but I need that every so often. Hope you enjoyed your weekend and are looking forward to a week full of reading and fun ;-)

>169 mckait: Kath, I have to admit I was spoiled with finding work that did not include weekends for several years until I became a nurse. I didn't mind the different shifts, but really did NOT like working weekends or holidays. Then when Ron got a PT retirement job in retail, again, I hated tying up the weekends like that. So, I understand your feelings of working on Sat.
We went Italian last night and it was pretty awful. Won't get that stuff again... back to pizza next time.
Hugs back to you xoxo

>170 connie53: Sounds like you had the same kind of weekend I had. Not complaining really... just not very exciting. We have a busy summer coming though. I can feel it in my bones. So I'll relax for now as I can.

>172 Smiler69: I don't know much about Vikings specifically - but this book pointed out that not all men were warriors and violent. Just like today, many of the influential and powerful men were political and wealthy. This book was more about an "uncrowned king" who was a writer of poetry and sagas, an influential merchant, and a personable coward lawyer of sorts.
Anyway, I just loved that this book was about Iceland... one of my favorite places in the world.

Hi Cee! I had to smile when I read that Iceland is one of your favorite places. You are a true Snow Queen! I hope Woolly feels better soon. It's so hard when our pets aren't doing well.

>173 DeltaQueen50: Hi Judy,
Yes... we are so relieved that Woolly is eating now. And we are blessing her about every 2 minutes with all the sneezing she is doing. We don't have to wonder where she is lately. We just listen for a minute or so and we can hear her. Poor thing. I just hope this doesn't turn into anything worse than a cold. Little old lady cats are tough customers ;-)

>174 sibylline: Lucy, I had that same thought. Interestingly, Song of the Vikings has a chapter entitled "Independent People" and it reminded me I have that book to read. I also thought about the background I got on Iceland history, etc. I should pick up IP soon.
Yay for Simon! You found the right combination. That's a relief!

>175 Donna828: I know what you mean, Donna. I have been waiting to eat and sleep less as I hear older people do. Hasn't happened yet and no sign that it will for me!
I've got 2 coats of paint on the ceiling and it looks almost good enough - but, I will have to do another. Then I have to do the ceilings of the hallways and stairs. I have no idea how that will happen. Will cross that bridge when I get to it.
"let's hope that paint lasts a long time" I agree! And let's also hope I never look UP again in this house once I am finished.

I'm so glad Wooly is feeling better, but the poor thing is sneezing? Drat!

I know so very little about the Vikings. You comment that it is easy to read leads me to want to read this.

Hi Pat!
My heart began to sing when we first landed in Iceland. There was snow! But that's not all... they have a glacier, too! And waterfalls, geysers, caves, moonscapes, hot springs, volcanoes, and so much space!

Woolly has always been so healthy for 17 years. I guess she wants her turn at getting extra attention... and I am willing to give it to her. More cuddles for me ;-)

BTW, your house is looking so great!

>179 Whisper1: Linda,
I can't say this book has as much to say about Vikings as the title would lead you to believe. It's more about Icelandic history, myths, sagas, and early culture with a focus on one person who had a great deal to do with passing it all on in his writings which have survived over time.

And yes... drat! is an excellent word for all the sneezing going on over here :(
I've been wondering if she caught this cold at the vet's? No one else here has a cold... yet.

Iceland...I'm almost surprised that you didn't retire there, and I bet you would have were your kids not here !

My Craig is thinking about a trip to Iceland this summer...

Sorry dinner out wasn't good. That is always so disappointing :( Working today, not much else happening. Hope your day is a good one. You are such a busy lady!

Woolly still improving, I hope?

hugs

>174 sibylline: Glad kitty health is improving at your house, too!

Hi Claudia! Good review of Song of the Vikings. What a neat literary coincidence, but I am reading Independent People and it is wonderful so far. I have a long way to go, but see no reason why this won't end up being a masterpiece.
Hope you had a nice weekend!

"Iceland...I'm almost surprised that you didn't retire there." LOL. Good one, Kath!

Even stranger... I just finished reading a retelling of a Norwegian tale..... what are the odds? :)

Hey! Long time no Ceeeeee! How's it going? OH OH, I just wishlisted The Hamlet cause Donna liked it, now I see you gave it 5 :P's. Still no friend of Faulner?
I'm glad to see you liked All the Pretty Horses! Wasn't it wonderful? I watched the movie version this past weekend and it stay true to the novel. Gorgeous scenery. It's one of those quiet, dull movies but it still leaves an impact.
Have a great week!

>182 mckait: Hahaha! Kath,
This is as far north as I could get Ron to retire. Besides, the people in Iceland work too hard. I'm not sure if they ever retire there. Tough economy.
I think Woolly is sneezing slightly less today. Still eating good (knock on wood).
Sorry you have to work today, but it will help pad the paycheck so you can go whole house a/c ;-) Believe it or not, summer IS coming. How do I know? Just got my summer LL Bean catalogue in the mail today.

>183 msf59: Hi Mark - I'm so glad to hear you say that Independent People is that good. I should pick it up fairly soon.
btw, we get more snow in Chicago and Maine than Iceland gets. They get more rain than snow in an average year. "The snow is typically at its deepest on March 28, with a median depth of 5.9"; the depth exceeds 6.5" only one year out of ten." (from WeatherSpark website) pshaw! That's not much!

>184 mckait: Hey Lynda!
Where on earth did you see that I gave The Hamlet 5 stars? Ick! I read about 100 pages of it and finally had to quit. It actually got 1 lonely star from me... and landed in the "Quit, Yuck, Ptooey!" category. I am all done with Faulkner! I can truthfully say I have done due diligence with that guy.
I did love All the Pretty Horses. Hmmm. Maybe I will have to look into the movie.
Thanks! You have a great week too!

Hi Sis, I see Woolly is feeling better, but for the sneezing! I'm happy he is!

No,no,no. You misunderstood me. I counted the :p's in post five and there were 5 of those tongue wags. Sorry that you and Faulkner couldn't shake hands and become friends.

Ah haha! I didn't even realize I gave him 5 :P's
Well, Lynda. There you have it! Even unconsciously I have given him the right rating :-D

You are very observant!

oops... Hi Connie!

Yes. The old lady is feeling better and way less sneezing. I hated to laugh at her but she was a funny sneezer. Very explosive and it seemed like it would never end. Poor dear. I got one good - right in the face! So now we will see if cats can transmit colds to humans. lol

I'm so glad to hear that Woolly is feeling better! You're such a good kitty mom! Although you apparently neglected to teach her to cover her whiskers when she sneezes... :). Poor girl.

Hi Joanne,
We're down to occasional sneezes - and not very many of those. I did mention she should use her paw to cover her sneeze, but she was so busy trying to keep her balance from the jet propulsion created - I guess she didn't hear me. Much better today... back to chirping at the birds.

Today -
We had a snow squall earlier, now pretty blue sky. Supposed to be on the edge of a bigger storm this evening... I think it might mostly miss us and head up to Nova Scotia.
I'm getting bored. Really bored. I need to get out more and DO something... or am I just trying to think of a way out of finishing up the ceiling painting? OK. Maybe I'll give it another stab today. Trouble is - I know it will stab me right back in the shoulder. Sigh.

I'm having students come this weekend to give me a free quote on repainting my apartment. I've been living here 14 years as of July and a large portion of the place hasn't been retouched since then and looking quite squalid. Don't know if I'll be able to afford it, but I figure we can maybe do it in sections over time. I've painted my various apartments many times over the years, but this time I just don't have the courage to do it myself!

>190 -Cee-: I think you are allowed to laugh at sneezing cats! They do look funny!!

Cee, I am so glad it isn't me doing the painting! But I hope that you're careful not to harm your shoulder. No need for it to be any more painful than it has to be :P

Hope you are taking a day of rest.....

No visit yesterday? No good at all... hope you are resting and letting your shoulder heal?
Or else out having fun and raising some heck. ( We are probably too old to actually raise hell)

Is it spring in Maine yet ( That was a joke... someone stole spring)

working today.. :P

I don't know if this will help, but...

Cee seems to be taking a break... come back CEEEEE! You are missed ...

*Checks watch* *Checks Calendar*

*frowns*

It's taking rather long, isn't it?

>145 -Cee-: I loved All the Pretty Horses, I remember vividly my bf of the time reading it and trying to integrate it into our lives by us eating home made tortillas, eaten el fresco.....haha. A long time ago now, but it was fun!

Hi Claudia, hope all's well with you. Sending you hugs. xx

>193 Smiler69: All is well, Ilana. Was very busy and not home much last 2 days and very un-well before that. Ok now. Thanks for the hugs. Actually got some more painting done - much more to go. Right now this house looks like the wreck of the Hesperus. Good incentive to keep going.

>194 connie53: Hi Connie. Sorry I took so long to get back here. Woolly has recovered from her cold. I did NOT catch it, thank goodness. I was feeling awful for quite awhile though. Better now.

>195 mckait: ,etc I'm here!
My shoulder is good, more painting is done, did not raise hell.
Weather here has warmed up - no more ice. So, Loki and I have been walking some. Nice out - well, it's a bit dark right now.
Did you get your A/C installed? Does it work?

>197 EBT1002: Hi Ellen - If I got any calmer, I'd be in a coma. heh. I always did and still do love Fridays. After I retired, I got over hating Mondays, but still feel the thrill of Fridays for myself and everyone else who gets weekends off ;-)

>201 LovingLit: Megan, you are so much fun. I remember once when the kids were little the refrigerator didn't have much to work with for supper. Needed to go shopping. But I did happen to have a can of beans, some bacon, and a little left over coffee from breakfast. So I told the kids we were having a "cowboy supper". They thought it was grand!
(I think Ron was on a business trip that night.)

*****************
Finished A Fountain Filled With Blood by Julia Spencer-Fleming 3.75 stars
Second book of the series. Pretty wild and unbelievable at the end... but still good.

Now reading And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
This is the best one I've read by her so far. Have not read that many yet. Love the premise. Keeping me guessing...

Sneezing cats!

It's been raining here all night, for which I am so thankful. It never got cold enough for any freezing rain, hallelujia, although it's still lurking in the forecast for Sun night and mon morning.....

That is a fun Christie!

Ha, I'm happy you are back, Cee! Have a nice sunday and I hope you are feeling better now! Glad to hear Woolly is doing fine and you did not catch her cold!

Nice to see you back Cee and in proper working order. Hope your Sunday is restful and that the Hesperus can await its restoration until you are fully a-ok

Well good. Now the LT world is back on track.... Out walking?! I am very proud of you. Cold..and outside and everything... and walking! Maybe you will inspire me? I only walk to work and sometimes the PO or Credit Union.. which are only right across from work..

Sorry you were down.. glad you are back... Cee....

Sorry to learn you weren't feeling well, Cee, but glad you're back up to snuff now.

Cat sneezes--oh boy. My little one brought a cold home from the shelter; her sneezes were amazingly powerful. I was cleaning windows for days.

Hi Claudia- Just popping in to say hi! It looks like we are going to have a lovely warm, sunny Sunday. We haven't got many of those.
Glad you liked the 2nd Claire & Russ mystery. I'll get to that one, in a couple of months.

Boo on feeling unwell but glad you're all better now Claudia. I just got a quote on painting my apartment from the student service. As I expected, no way I can afford to do it all in one year. Maybe one room each summer. Some parts I can do myself, like painting the staircase once they've done the prep work. I've painted so many of my apartments in the past but somehow don't have the courage to tackle such a big project now.

Snow snow snow and more snow keeps falling here. You'd love it! xx

Lucy,
I did have fun with Christie's 10 little Indians. I didn't guess at all. Now I want to pick another of hers. I wasn't all that happy with Miss Marple - too many stories and too short. I wound up abandoning it about halfway through just out of boredom. I have The Pale Horse I might try.

Connie,
Hi! Thanks. I think this week will be a better one :-)

Well, Paul -
The Hesperus will not be completed for a good long time as I am doing it pretty much alone. There are many, many coats of paint to go...

Thanks, Kath. No walking today... tons of rain! VERY high tide this morning. Nice.

>192 -Cee-: back to chirping at the birds
http://www.petsadviser.com/behaviors/why-does-my-cat-chirp-at-bugs/

>203 -Cee-: this house looks like the wreck of the Hesperus
I just avert my eyes and step through the debris until inspiration strikes. Or I invite someone over, and that’s motivation to get cracking.

> 211 Cee, this house looks like the wreck of the HesperusI have never heard anyone say that but me!

I love wild tides... as long as they aren't damaging.. but oh the feeling when watching them crash in.......sigh

Thank you Gail.
Oh, am I lucky or what? Woolly did not sneeze on my windows. She did target my face for close up explosions at night :(

Hi Mark -
I did find Claire a bit more intrusive in the second book. Quite a bit!
I think it annoyed me towards the end. I'll probably read the next one someday anyway.

Ilana -
I think if I was younger, I'd go into painting. They sure charge a bundle! My plan right now is go slow - do it in small steps. That's usually not my style at all - but I'm not that young anymore to be abusing my body by doing everything in one fell swoop.
I saw all that snow you got! Woohoo! I'll bet Coco was happy :-)

Hi Katherine!
Woolly makes so many noises. She is a natural born hunter. I know when she is chirping (and she has quite a repertoire) she WANTS whatever she is stalking... even if it's always on the other side of the glass. I was telling the vet how Woolly seemed to be better and I mentioned she was back to chirping. The vet wrote that down in her file. So, I guess that's a good thing. Thanks for the link.
Looking at the somewhat controlled mess in here is enough to motivate me to paint - but I like to have the sun shining and my shoulder feeling good. It's been iffy this past month... but I'll persist and win! I just hope it'll be finished before it gets HOT. If not, I'll have to delay till fall.

>213 mckait: Great minds think alike, Kath!

Great minds, indeed!

My kitties chirp, too. They love looking out the windows and threatening all the birds.. which reminds me, I need to set up the hummingbird feeder...... in fact, I want 2

I also really want that mulch, so I hope Dan gets it. I ordered new garden gloves from Ammy, so I am ready to start digging!

Safe trip to and from your class :)

Good morning, Cee! I've nothing much to add to the conversation, but I hope you have a great day!

Actually, I can add that Sig gives a sad cry when he sees something on the other side of the window that he wants to get at. Heart-wrenching, actually. I'd rather that he chirped.

Good morning Cee!!! Spring is trying to come here. I saw my daff leaves sticking up about 2 inches yesterday... Nothing much going on here to tell either.. I just finished my first Anne Penny. Dunno. I'm glad I read it, I needed to see what the fuss was about, but? Maybe I'll try an older one someday. Happy April to you!

Terri...we gotta talk...

Kath -
Did you get your mulch? Did you dig today? Is the ground still frozen?
Happy April back to you!

Terri -
Sig will get more used to staying inside if you persist. Don't let him get to you... keep him safe ;-) I scooped up one dead kitty from the road in my life - never again.

I had a good day today. Book group this morning was good. We read and discussed The Blue Sweater. Interesting look at charity/business and helping the poorest of the poor worldwide.

Yesterday was the first class in my course to figure out my purpose in life. Ha! No clear answers yet. A good mix of class members and thoughtful/provoking conversation. Using the Bhagavad Gita and Indian Hindu philosophy (yoga) as a reference.
The weather was nasty and roads to get there were slippery - but we all made it without adverse incident. Whew! I'm surprised they didn't call it off. I'm surprised I went myself. It warmed up a degree or two and going home was fine.

I suppose I need to work on a new April thread...

I had a nice copy of the Bhagavad Gita, and read parts of it..... years ago. IT came with a set of religious books I had from a book club. The problem cat I had sprayed all of them a time or three, and they and all the books around them had to go :( It made me sad :(

Glad your class was good :)

Oh... Well, I didn't get to dig. Actually, had I been off I would have just laid down some weed fabric stuff and some mulch. Hopefully it will be dry tomorrow and I can do that.. because I want to get it down before the weeds come up!