Barbara (Ameise1)'s world (1)

Welcome to my thread.

I am Barbara, 56 years old, married and have two daughters. I live in Zürich, Switzerland and work full-time as a primary school teacher. Besides reading, I am interested in art of all kinds and traveling. You will also find something of all this on my thread in 2018.
I look forward to all visitors and look forward to a lively exchange.


A small place from my hometown Zürich

January
# 1 The Emperor's Tomb by Steve Berry ROOT Challenge 2018 (4½ stars)
# 2 The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton BAC January (4½ stars)
# 3 The Little Red Chairs by Edna O'Brien IAC January (4 stars)
# 4 Blue Nights by Joan Didion AAC January (4 stars)

February
# 5 The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith (4 stars)
# 6 Mercier and Camier by Samuel Beckett (4½ stars)
# 7 Der König, die Sonne, der Tod by Yuri Herrera (4 stars)

American Author Challenge 2018

January
Blue Nights by Joan Didion (2018-01-28)

British Author Challenge 2018

January
The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton (2018-01-05)

Irish Author Challenge 2018

January
The Little Red Chairs by Edna O'Brien (2018-01-20)

April
Mercier and Camier by Samuel Beckett (2018-02-07)

2018 PopSugar Reading Challenge

1. A book made into a movie you've already seen
2. True crime
3. The next book in a series you started 
The Emperor's Tomb by Steve Berry (4½ stars)
4. A book involving a heist
5. Nordic noir
6. A novel based on a real person
7. A book set in a country that fascinates you
8. A book with a time of day in the title
9. A book about a villain or antihero 
The Little Red Chairs by Edna O'Brein (4 stars)
10. A book about death or grief 
Blue Nights by Joan Didion (4 stars)
11. A book with a female author who uses a male pseudonym 
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith (4 stars)
12. A book with an LGBTQ+ protagonist
13. A book that is also a stage play or musical
14. A book by an author of a different ethnicity than you
15. A book about feminism
16. A book about mental health
17. A book you borrowed or that was given to you as a gift
18. A book by two authors
19. A book about or involving a sport
20. A book by a local author -
21. A book with your favorite color in the title
22. A book with alliteration in the title
23. A book about time travel
24. A book with a weather element in the title
25. A book set at sea
26. A book with an animal in the title
27. A book set on a different planet
28. A book with song lyrics in the title
29. A book about or set on Halloween
30. A book with characters who are twins
31. A book mentioned in another book
32. A book from a celebrity book club
33. A childhood classic you've never read
34. A book that's published in 2018
35. A past Goodreads Choice Awards winner
36. A book set in the decade you were born
37. A book you meant to read in 2017 but didn't get to
38. A book with an ugly cover
39. A book that involves a bookstore or library
40. Your favorite prompt from the 2015, 2016, or 2017 POPSUGAR Reading Challenges (you can easily Google these)

Advanced Reading Challenge

1. A bestseller from the year you graduated high school
2. A cyberpunk book
3. A book that was being read by a stranger in a public place
4. A book tied to your ancestry
5. A book with a fruit or vegetable in the title
6. An allegory
7. A book by an author with the same first or last name as you
8. A microhistory
9. A book about a problem facing society today
10. A book recommended by someone else taking the POPSUGAR Reading Challenge

currently reading

 Love and Summer  Sag Harbor

currently listening

 Mr Mercedes

Hi Barbara - I hope it's OK to peek in now :-) Welcome to 2018!

Hi Barb! Happy new thread!

Welcome back! Gotcha in the Threadbook, links are up to date on the various pages.

>8 susanj67: Glad to see you peeking in, Susan. Being first I hope you help yourself with some christmas cookies. We have still enough of them. ;-)

>9 The_Hibernator: >10 drneutron: Thanks so much, Rachel and Jim. Help yourself with some Christmas cookies.

Hello Barbara! Shall we have Nussgipfel to celebrate your new thread?
width=500>

Hello have a *.

>13 richardderus: Oh, thanks so much, Rdear. I share my favourite one with you.

>14 BBGirl55: Hello Bryony. It's nice to see you here.

Your new thread is scrumptious, Barbara. Look at all that wonderful food. Happy new thread for a new year!

>17 Familyhistorian: Thanks so much, Meg. There is still more sweets at my home which should be eaten, so please help yourself.

I have starred your thread and it has left me hungry!! LOL I look forward to spending time here in 2018.

>19 Berly: Wow, that's beautiful. thanks so much, Kim. don't worry I've put aside some mango cream from our dessert tonight for you.

Bless you!

>18 Ameise1: Yum!

Hi Barbara - lovely food! I hope you’ve had a great Christmas.

I really enjoyed the Silkworm and the other ones in the series - will be grabbing the next one in the series as soon as I see it.

Best wishes for a marvellous year's reading, Barbara!

Dropping a star, Barbara!

Have a Happy New Year, Barbara! I'm looking forward to both your reviews and pictures. >1 Ameise1: What a gorgeous pic.
And I'm bringing Irish coffees to the feast-

So much Christmas food and deliciousness! I know I'll be back here for many visits :)

Well hello have a star.

Hello Barbara my dear, I have dropped my star off and look forward to visiting regularly dear friend.

>23 cushlareads: >24 Eyejaybee: >25 Crazymamie: >26 mstrust: >27 LovingLit: >28 BBGirl55: Thanks so much, Cushla, James, Mamie, Jennifer, Megan, Bryony and John for stopping by.
We had some fresh fruit salad. So please help yourself.

Barbara, your thread is making me crave sweets. I wonder why? LOL Hope you have a year full of great reads! Dropping my star to follow along.

Hello Barbara! if we visit, is there any chance of us getting some of that famous swiss chocolate? :D

I finished The Silkworm earlier this year, and plan to read the sequel in 2018. Did you know there's a British TV series based on Coromoran Strike novels? Just found out about it, looks interesting

>30 Ameise1: Ha! Are you trying to trick us into eating something healthy before Jan. 1st?

Happy reading in 2018, Barbara!

Hi Barbara, just stopping by to wish you, Thomas, Isabelle and Marina a Very Happy New Year my dear and hope that 2018 is a really good year. Sending love and hugs to you all from both of us dear friend.

>31 thornton37814: >32 aqeeliz: >33 mstrust: >34 FAMeulstee: >35 johnsimpson: Thanks so much everybody for the well wishes. I wish you all a wonderful healthy and joyful 2018, too.
Here some chocolate sweets from Switzerland.

Happy New Year! I wish you to read many good books in 2018.

Happy New Year Barbara!

Happy new year, Barbara! I do so enjoy your photos, even though the photos of your chocolate sweets are making me drool.

Happy New Year🎉

Happy New Year
Happy New Group here
This place is full of friends
I hope it never ends
It brew of erudition and good cheer.

>37 The_Hibernator: Thanks so much, Rachel. Wishing you a great 2018 too.

>38 SandDune: Thanks so much, Rhian. Wishing you a fabulous 2018 too.

>39 cameling: LOL, here is one for you. Thanks so much, Caro for the well wishes.

>40 BBGirl55: thanks so much, Bryony. Wishing you a fantastic 2018 too.

>41 PaulCranswick: That's beautiful, Paul. Thanks so much. I wish you a wonderful 2018 too.

book 1 Read in German

 The Emperor's Tomb

Again, this was a great book from the Cotton Malone series. Cotton has to free his friend Cassiopeia Vitt, who was kidnapped for stealing an old Chinese lamp. But this was just the hanger that tells the story of China. Berry managed to bring the Chinese high culture and all its inventions closer to the reader in this thriller. It not only teaches you what the Chinese invented thousands of years ago, but also about a hot topic that has to do with oil resources. Likewise, you learn a lot about the political machinations of the past and today.
The thriller is written grippingly. I highly recommend this series.

Next reading:

 The Miniaturist
BAC 2018

>45 Ameise1: I have a thing for reading all series from the start. How do you rate the Cotton Malone series overall?

>47 Carmenere: Thanks so much, Lynda. Wishing you a wonderful 2018, too.

>48 aqeeliz: Aqeel, I like this sereis very much and would rate it between 4 stars to 4½ stars.

^Happy New Thread, Barb. Looking forward to seeing you around more in '18.

>50 msf59: Thanks so much, Mark. I'll try to do better. Wishong you a fabulous 2018 too.

Hello Barbara and happy new thread, happy new year!

You're off to a great start, one book finished already! I'm impressed.

>52 karenmarie: Thanks so much, Karen. I started it yesterday and finished it today. So I count it for the new year.

Happy New Year, Barbara!!!

Happy New Year Barbara. I look forward to learning what you are reading, and of course, the joy of images of your travels.

Happy 2018!!

Happy 2018, Barbara. I hope you have a healthy and happy year with lots of good reading.

The Miniaturist has been getting a lot of good attention. Eager to hear what you think of it!

Wishing you a Happy New Year, Barbara!

Hi Barbara, passing by to wish you a wonderful new year. May it be filled with plenty of good books!
I won't be joining the 75-group this year but I will be following your thread here. Starred!

Love the sweet treats here Barbara - happy new thread and new year.

>54 EBT1002: Thanks so much, Ellen. Wishing you a fabulous year too.

>55 Whisper1: Thanks so much, Linda. Wishing you a wonderful year too.

>56 Berly: Happy 2018 to you too, Kim.

>57 jnwelch: Thanks so much, Joe. Wishing you the same.

>58 richardderus: Yep, I saw lots of discussions last year. So far I like it. Fortunately, I have recently seen a documentary about trade development in Amsterdam, London and New York. For years, Amsterdam was the leader in terms of trade. This comes into play in this book.

>59 mstrust: Thanks so much, Jennifer. Wishing you a gorgeous year too.

>60 Trifolia: Lovely to see you Monica and thanks so much for the well wishes. I starred your thread at the Club Read 2018 so I'm able to follow your reading.

>61 charl08: Thanks so much, Charlotte. I must confess that we have eaten too many sweets over all the festive season and it still has.

If you would like to help us to reduce the big amount of sweets here is a Vacherin cake. (we still have one leftover in the freezer)

>64 Ameise1: Ooohhh, I'll have just a big piece please!

>65 richardderus: No problem Sir - an extra piece for you. *smooches*

>46 Ameise1: Looking forward to seeing your thoughts on that one!

Happy New Year, Barbara!

>67 alcottacre: Thanks so much, Stasia. So far it's really good. As I mentioned in (>63 Ameise1:) I'm glad that I learned more about the trade history.

Happy New Year to you too.

>66 Ameise1: Thank goodness that has zero calories or I would be 200kg in no time at all.

>69 richardderus: Enjoy it, Rdear. I suppose I've eaten too much sweets during the last few days and I won't need more during the next few weeks.

Happy New Year to you and your family, Barbara!
That Vacherin cake looks amazing, never heard of it. I'm still totally oversugared, but my detox season starts only next week (two more bdays to celebrate), so if there's some left, I'd try a slice. :D

Hi Barbara!

Yum to Vacherin cake. I've never heard of it either, but it sounds wonderful. Is this just a Christmas-time tradition or can it be a refreshing summer dessert? (I host a book club meeting in July and am always looking for a new dessert to make.)

>71 Deern: Thanks so much, Nathalie. Vacherin cake is widespread with us. This form of ice cream cake is loved by many. One has the feeling that it is a light dessert and is not heavy like other ice creams, but this is deceptive as it contains as many calories as the usual ice creams.

>72 karenmarie: Karen, a vacherin cake would be a perfect summer dessert.

I can't do ice cream because it makes my teeth hurt, but that cake is so lovely.

>74 Crazymamie: Sorry to hear that, Mamie. Sometimes ice cream is the only dessert I can eat after a long meal. All others would be too heavy.

Happy New Year, Barbara. I look forward to more good food and books on this thread in 2018.

>76 BLBera: Thanks so much, Beth. I suppose I've never posted that much sweets like this time.

A Happy New Year, Barbara, to you and your family. I'm looking forward to keeping up with you this year!

>78 LauraBrook: Thanks so much, Laura. It's lovely to see you here.

Oh, there's cake?!
I've never heard of this variety before either, but it's beautiful and looks to be chocolate, strawberry and vanilla? I happen to love birthday cake cold from the fridge, so I'm sure I could get some of this down.

>80 mstrust: Go for it but it's a frozen cake. Mostly it's made with strawberries but some are also mixed with chocolate and mango and very important is the meringue. I eould say it's a perfect birthday cake, Jennifer.

Mango with chocolate, strawberry and meringue, very exotic! Where has this been all my life? My husband has a friend who is the head baker at a little German bakery, so I'm going to ask if they make this one.

>82 mstrust: I'm looking forward what you'll report.

I came for the cake, and I will stay for the conversation ;)

>84 LovingLit: It's great to have you here, Megan., either for the cake or conversation.

It's really a stormy day. I have to go out in the afternoon and hoping that it will be a bit better.

Hi, Barb! Happy Wednesday! I hope you are enjoying your time off and getting plenty of reading in.

>86 msf59: Thanks so much, Mark. Doing some preparation for work but otherwise I've got plenty of reading time. *big grins*

I went to the library a brought home:

• The Little Red Chairs by Edna O'Brien IAC 2018-January
• Der König, die Sonne, der Tod by Yuri Herrera Saw the first part of this trilogy on Lynda (Carmenere)'s thread.
• Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King AAC 2018-October (Audio)

>88 Ameise1: I am envious! I will be so glad when our local library opens back up! Right now, I have to put books on hold through the library system and hope that I can get my hands on them. I miss the days of just being able to peruse the stacks.

>89 alcottacre: Oh Stasia, I'm sorry that you can't do it anymore. That's a real shame. I love our library. It's a gorgeous place.

    

Ooh, yum, delicious! I'm glad I dropped by, even if I did skim through because you're so far ahead. Happy New Year Barbara!

>88 Ameise1: - I have The Little Red Chairs on my shelf too. I'm not committing to any challenges or plans, but it's been on my WL for a while, so I might as well squeeze it in this month.

Hi Barbara! I hope that you're continuing to enjoy your holiday.

I have read the first two of the Bill Hodges series by Stephen King, have the 3rd one on my shelves staring balefully at me waiting to be read. It just hasn't been the right time yet, but perhaps later on this winter.

(so glad that Vacherin cake can be a summer treat, too!)

Hi Barb!

>90 Ameise1: Beautiful library, Barbara! A tax levy was approved in November for my local branch to build a new/larger library. Seems the area has grown by population and the library did not grow with it. Haven't heard of dates nor details so it's probably a little ways off but , thankfully, our small library is still open and functioning.

>91 humouress: Hi Nina, thanks so much for stopping by. What a beautiful quote - I hope I'll be able to fulfill pats of it.

>92 Trifolia: Hi Monica, I'll let you know what I think about that book when I've finished it.

>93 karenmarie: Hi Karen, I haven't read much by King so it will be a surprise for me. DiD you like it so far? Yep, vacherin cake goes very well at any season :-D

>94 The_Hibernator: Hi Rachel, I'm glad to see you.

>95 Carmenere: Glad to hear that you'll get a bigger library. Our library was renovated a few years ago and enlarged. It was always in the same building, but only two floors. Now I can find books on three floors. Luckily, the renovation went smoothly. We were able to borrow books all the time.

>90 Ameise1: The library looks good, Barbara, with nice cozy seats to read :-)

>97 FAMeulstee: Isn't it, Anita? I love it being there.

I've already done a lot this morning. First, I went to the dental hygienist. She found that in two places the enamel is damaged, so I have an appointment with the dentist next Monday. Afterwards I drove to the Schauspielhaus (theatre). Since the ticket office for the purchase of tickets was not yet open, I briefly went to the Kunsthaus (art museum), which is right next door. I looked at some pictures of the exhibition Praised and Ridiculed - French painting 1820-1880. But I only stayed half an hour because I did not want to stand in line at the ticket counter too long. Fortunately, it was my turn to finish fourth. I have tickets for the Heart of a Dog performance by Michail Bulgakov on the fourth of February.
Here the blurb of this story:

Filipp Filippovich, who specialises in rejuvenation surgery, is risking a novel experiment: he intends to operate on a dog to turn it into a human being. A street dog, as well as the organs of a recently deceased male drunkard, are to serve as test objects for the successful Moscow doctor and scientist. Together with his assistant, Bormenthal, he succeeds in transforming the dog into a human being – and Lumpi becomes Lumpikov. Delighted, the medical community sing their own praises. However, the prototype of a new future has unexpected consequences, and ultimately gets out of hand… Linguistic artist Michail Bulgakov’s 1925 novel, “Heart of a Dog,” censored due to its allegedly counterrevolutionary tendencies, is an absurdly grotesque story about a fantastical laboratory experiment that culminates in a battle between the creator and his creature – in the genre of Goethe’s “Faust” and Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.”

And here some photos of the exhibition:

               

Lovely photos, Barbara! Thanks so much for sharing.

Thank you so much for a much-needed culture injection! You reminded me how lovely it can be to live in a bigger city where you can just step out and see an art exhibition when there's nothing else to do. That play sounds fascinating, I'm wondering if I should get the book although it fits no current challenge.

>99 Ameise1: Wow, what a difference six hours makes! It's barely 12.40 here. I'm a bit winded from looking at your achievements.

Oh, I loved The Heart of a Dog! I hope the stage adaptation is faithful to the spirit of the novella.

I love the idea of this exhibition. How funny to see that art and the response together at a remove of 150 years! (Or thereabouts)

Thank you for taking us along to the exhibit!

>100 Crazymamie: You're welcome, Mamie.

>101 Deern: It is indeed a great luck to live in a city, Nathalie. So I always have the opportunity to quickly visit the Kunsthaus (art museum), even if the time is only enough for a few pictures. Since we have an annual pass, this is not a problem.

>102 richardderus: Ah yes, six hours difference in time means a lot. We will have dinner soon. There are roast pork with vegetables.
I look forward to the theater performance, Rdear. At the moment, our younger daughter is reading the book. We give her the theater performance for a birthday, she will celebrate on February ninth.
I love the joke in this exhibition. The cartoons made me laugh.

>103 mstrust: You're welcome, Jennifer. there were some very good paintings.

book 2

 The Miniaturist
BAC January

What an exciting story. On the one hand, it's all about the prediction of the miniaturist, who keeps Nella in suspense with her life-like figures, but on the other hand, the inhabitants of the real house have many secrets that only become apparent over time. Nella a young girl who was married to a rich merchant comes from the country to the big city Amsterdam. Much is alien to her here and she struggles to find her way around the house, as it is still led by her sister-in-law. From her husband she gets a dollhouse, which resembles the house where she lives now. Over time, figures, animals and objects come along. Nella soon realizes that these things can predict the future by understanding the signs. Amsterdam is an economic metropolis and Nella's husband plays an important role. But he underestimates his power, because his secret is that he is gay, which at the time was considered a serious crime. Her sister-in-law also has a big secret. While Nella is initially considered the inexperienced 'land mouse', she develops untold powers to the end and finds her place in society.

next Reading

 The Little Red Chairs

>105 Ameise1: Luckily it's already on my list, or you'd have got me with a book bullet! Savor the roast pork for me. We can't have pork products here because the management is Jewish.

>107 richardderus: You'll like the book and yes I'm thinking of you when eating the dinner.

Hi Barbara! Lucky you to be able to just zip into a museum for a little bit and see so many wonderful things!

Happy Friday and your dinner sounds wonderful.

>106 Ameise1: I'll pick that one up next week when I get back to work. Plenty to keep me occupied until then.

>99 Ameise1: Thank for taking us on your visit to the museum, Barbara.
That first painting looks very familiair, Renoir?

>109 karenmarie: Thanks so much, Karen. Dinner was delicious.

>110 thornton37814: I hope you'll eni8y it as much as I did, Lori

>111 FAMeulstee: Yep, Anita. It's from a Dutch museum but I can't remember which one..

>112 Ameise1: If it is Renoir it probably comes from the Kröller-Müller museum.

>113 FAMeulstee: It is a Renoir, Anita.

>99 Ameise1: ooh, I should be thinking about the dentist...but *oh look!* Art! :)

>115 LovingLit: :-) The combination of dentist and art works better than only the dentist, Megan. By the way When sitting on the dentist's chair I was listening to Silkworm.

Happy Saturday, Barb. Enjoy your last days of freedom. I have wanted to read The Miniaturist for awhile now. Glad you liked it.

>117 msf59: Thanks so much, Mark. I'm doing some work for school and then some reading. Tomorrow my dad called for a meetup with my siblings. I suppose there will be some news.

Adding The Miniaturist to my wishlist - it sounds great!

Happy weekend, Barbara! I'm living vicariously through your reading as I've wanted to read both The Miniaturist and Little Red Chairs but since I haven't your reviews will suffice nicely until I do.

>117 msf59: I hope you'll get to The Miniaturist.

>119 scaifea: I really liked it, Amber. I hope you'll enjoy it too.

>120 Carmenere: Thanks so much, Lynda. I hope you'll enjoy both books once you'll get them. I only started The Little Red Chairs but I can tell you that it is fast-paced and gripping so far.

You also got me with The Miniaturist, Barbara - adding it to The List. Hoping your weekend is full of fabulous!

>122 Crazymamie: Thanks so much, Mamie. The weekend goes well so far. I loked that story very much.

Happy weekend, Barbara.



Thanks for sharing the photos from your visit to the museum. I loved the sketches. I was taking a long time looking at the photos you posted and was lulled into a false sense of calm because the attack of the book bullet with your review of The Miniaturist was totally unexpected. It sounds like a great read and I'll accept this ambush and add this to my nearly exploding wish list.

>124 cameling: Oh, what a lovely reading spot. Thanks so much, Caro. Aren't these sketches gorgeous. And yes for The Miniaturist. I hope you'll like it as much as I did. BTW book bullets are hitting me currently on a regular basis. ;-)

Happy Saturday, Barbara.

Thanks for the intriguing museum photos.

I haven't read The Heart of a Dog, after loving The Master and Margarita. I need to fix that.

Hope you can move up and fit me on Caro's sofa, Barbara. Such a lovely spot.

I really enjoyed your art post - I am hoping to have some political cartoons exhibited at work this year, linked to women's canpaign for the vote. Fingers crossed!

Ed. To fix name! So sorry!

>124 cameling: Oooh. How perfect.

Happy weekend reads, Barbara!

Hi, Barbara! I loved the pictures from the gallery and echo your praise for The Miniaturist. I look forward to your thoughts on the adaptation of the Heart of a Dog--that sounds very good! Happy weekend wishes. And hugs.

Happy New Year, Barbara! You're off to a great start with two 4.5 star reads! I intend to read the Cotton Malone books one of these days. I think I would enjoy that series.

Hi Barbara, happy Sunday! I've been following along, but just delurking to wave hello. I love that reading spot up there >124 cameling: but for all it looks peaceful, I suspect it's getting a bit crowded now ;0)

Happy Sunday, Barb. I hope the family meeting goes well. Keep us updated.

Hi Barbara, and happy Sunday! I hope the meet up with your Dad and the sibs goes well, too.

Barbara! How did I miss dropping off a star here?


And wishing you

Happy New Year, Barbara! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season. All the best wishes for 2018! The food on display here looks so yummy!

>99 Ameise1: - Thank you for sharing photos from the exhibition.

>105 Ameise1: - Great review! I have been eyeing that one for a while now... may need to think about adding it to my future reading list.

Starring your thread before I leave so that I can find my way back!

Barbara, it is wonderful that you had someone to take over for you when you went into labour. That certainly gave you the maximum time with your infant daughters. In Canada, the allowed time of changed to 12 months shortly after I had my first son and now it is 18 months. You are only paid 1/2 of your salary ( up to a certain maximum) for the first 12 months, but it is so much nicer for all if you can have more time off with your babies. I suppose Switzerland has changed also?

Good morning everybody, I'm going back to work shortly, so I'll report later about the meeting with my dad and siblings. I just start to response to your lovely messages.

>126 jnwelch: Joe, I liked the Master and Margarita very much. I'm looking forward to the play of the other story and will report about it.

>127 charl08: Take a seat, Charlotte. Isn't it a fantastic place? I love such cartoons very much and I'm looking forward what you'll be posting.

>128 richardderus: Thanks so much, Rdear. It was a weekend filled with a big surprise which isn't to my taste but I'll report later.

>129 Berly: Thanks for the hugs, Kim. I'm glad that you like the art pictures. I'm too looking forward to see the play.

>130 cbl_tn: Welcome, Carrie. I can strongly recommend the Cotton Malone books. I hope you'll like them as much as I do.

>131 humouress: Hi Nina, take a seat. I'm soon on my way to work.

>132 msf59: >133 karenmarie: Thanks so m6ch, Mark and Karen. I'll report later. I have to write it on a computer and currently I'm typing on the tablet.

>134 ronincats: Welcome, Roni. Thanks so much for the star and gif. It's nice to have you here.

I'm off to work.

Hi just popped in to let you know that there is a vote going on over on my thread.

Oh deer more bb's...

Finally wandering over to wish you a happy new year of reading!

I loved the photos from the exhibit. Thanks for sharing!

>135 lkernagh: Thanks so much for stopping by, Lori. I enjoyed the exhibition very much.
I hope you'll find a copy of The Miniaturist. It was a great reading.

>136 vancouverdeb: Deb, here in Switzerland the max time off are 16 weeks not more. So you are definitely on a better basis.

>146 BBGirl55: Hi Bryony, I was on your thread and did my vote. Looking forward what you'll be reading.

>147 Copperskye: You're welcome, Joanne and thanks so much for dropping in.

So here's the update from my meeting last Sunday with my dad and siblings:
It's safe to say that my father blew up a bomb by telling us that he wants to emigrate to Thailand. You can imagine that we are shocked and of course wanted to know more exactly what drives him into the 'flight'. You must also know that since the death of my mother seven years ago, my father has regularly been traveling to Thailand for several weeks. There he met a young woman (she could be my daughter). That we do not like this 'love', you can all understand. Until now, this was only there during his holidays. Now he intends to move to her. What is the reason? He feels that his pension will not last forever and that he can therefore live there more cheaply. This is only an excuse for us, because we know his financial circumstances and feel that he can spend the evening of his life here. In addition, you must know that he can not speak Thai and his English is also very bad. His girlfriend does not speak German and her English is also very bad. Someone should explain to me how they talk - not at all. Ergo, if my father gets hurt in Thailand, there is no one to help him and he can not ask for help. Furthermore, we explained to him that this departure hurt us enormously and that we feel rejected by him.
The last word is not yet spoken, but you can see that a rather unpleasant time is ahead of me.

Now that is a bombshell. Wow. I hope your dad changes his mind and stays with you all. You've given him good reasons to stay but it sounds like he's after an adventure. Good luck!

Now that is really a bomb! I'm so sorry for you all!
For a while I watched those shows with more or less clueless emigrants, and Thailand was always a difficult one with a complicated bureaucracy and people had to blindly rely on expensive experts and intermediaries for everything. No Thai and almost no English... wouldn't it be an option just spending a whole season there as a test, also to see if the love lasts?

Oh, Barbara! That is a lot to process. I feel badly for you and your siblings, and I hope that things can work out. Keeping you in my thoughts.

Wow, what a bombshell. There's no sense or logic to it, is there? That's on top of his moving away from you and your siblings, and the ewwww factor of his being involved with a woman who could be his granddaughter.

I'm so sorry for all the stress this has caused and will continue to cause.

I almost hesitate to ask, but how were your first two days back at school?

It all seems a bit much all I am going to add is that I send you big hugs.

>152 Ameise1: Wow.

{{{Barbara}}}

Gosh, Barbara, that's a lot to take in. I'm sorry that your family is struggling with this and I'll keep you all in my thoughts, hoping that it all works out some way that makes everyone happy.

>153 mstrust: >154 Deern: >155 Crazymamie: >156 karenmarie: >157 BBGirl55: >158 richardderus: >159 scaifea: Thanks so much, Jennifer, Nathalie, Mamie, Karen, Bryony, Rdear and Amber for your moral support. I definitely can use it. My father leaves on 29th for his holidays in Thailand. He will not be back until April 14th. Until then, we siblings will consult without him. We made him the suggestion that he should live once for one year in Thailand. Then he should come back and then we could discuss how it would go on. My sister is currently clarifying what formalities are needed to implement this. In any case, he will keep us busy.

>156 karenmarie: Karen, the first three days back at school went well. At the moment, I am happy about a normal everyday routine, at least in one place.

Wow, just got caught up on your thread and saw what's going on with your father. I can't imagine having to deal with that situation. You've got my support too!

Happy New Year and merry reading in 2018 Barbara (and good luck with the situation with your father - family is tricky!)

I somehow missed wishing you a happy new year, Barbara!

What a shocking message from your father. I can imagine that you want him to stay a bit closer. I hope you find a resolution with him.

Oh, Barbara! What a lot to process and what a shock. You have my support too. I'm very glad that at least you have siblings to help you process all of this. What a shock!

Happy Friday, Barbara. Your library is beautiful.

The Miniaturist sounds wonderful. I loved The Little Red Chairs. I will watch for your comments. Have a wonderful weekend.

Hi Barbara!

I always felt that I had to have one 'place' in my life that was normal. If home was stressed then work became the haven, if work was stressful, then a good and calm home life became necessary. (after I retired when things were awful after Mom's death, reading and Bill/Jenna were my havens). I hope your immediate family, reading and teaching provide you enough 'normal'.

That anouncement by your father must have shocked you all. I hope your family can find a solution without estranging your father.
I hope you have a good weekend after your first work week.

Hi Barbara, what a shock announcement by your father, we cannot imagine what you and your siblings must be going through and like all the other LT ers you have our support my dear. Hopefully a solution can be found that will not cause an estrangement and all that that entails. Sending heartfelt love and hugs from both of us dear friend.

>105 Ameise1: I am going to read that too this month so I am encouraged!

>152 Ameise1: That is a shock isn't it? I must admit as a (occasionally and comparatively) wealthy Western man the temptations of the flesh can be quite enormous. Whilst I know examples of relationships that do actually sustain and work on a genuine level (my ex-partner Charles and his Filipina wife, Lisa - 57 and 31 respectively) more often than not the "love" offered is mainly of a fiscal nature. Sorry to say but the Thai ladies in particular are well known for milking older men as a means to escape their life. You may take a little comfort Barbara in that more than likely she will want to come to Europe so your Dad may not be away for too long. It is the fact that he will be expected to support all her extended family that you need to watch out for.
I wish him and you all the best of luck and hope that he has found one with an ounze or two of care and sympathy for your Dad and is not just using him.

>152 Ameise1: What a tough situation. The same thing is occurring with my friends father in law, he left his family home for Thailand, and has a Thai partner half his age, and a young child with her who is younger than some of his grandchildren here in NZ. He has time only for his new family, and the rest of them feel very much maligned. It is a real disruption.
I guess it takes a lot of processing on your part, and some struggles to see his perspective. This may be a long process for you, but something will settle into place, and hopefully your relationship will be sustained!

Wow on the family bombshell info, Barbara. I just ... Wow. Here is hoping that things work out for the best and your father will be safe, whatever decision he makes.

Hi, Barb. Hope you had a good weekend and got some R & R in.

Wow. Good luck with your father, Barb! That's a really tough situation to be in. Hugs!

What Rachel said, Barbara. Sending hugs.

More {{{hugs}}}, I hope you're all doing okay.

Barbara, that was quite a shocker from your father. I imagine you are still reeling from that announcement. I hope he rethinks his decision. If not, I hope he makes frequent trips home to see you and your siblings.

That is a shocker, Barbara. I hope that a workable solution can be found for everyone.

Sending good wishes your way Barbara!

Thinking of you Barbara.

Hi, Barb. Just checking in. Please give us an update, so we can see how you are doing. Hope all is well.

Jim, Megan, Ella, Deb, Beth, Karen, Anita, John, Paul, Megan, Lori, Mark (2x), Rachel, Joe, Nathalie (2x), Donna, Meg, Charlotte, thanks os much dear friends for your moral support and all the hugs. All of them is very much appreciated.

There was a lot going on in the past few days. My father had to make his living will, which we demanded of him, as well as the precautionary order. He had a hard time dealing with it. Both contracts are now ready for the certified signature. My siblings had more trouble when trying to set up these documents and always had the feeling that he should also listen to their concerns. I retired there, it's his ideas and ideas that he has to bring to the papers.
A week ago, the godfather of my husband died. He was the brother of my late father-in-law. The whole story is very complicated, as he entered into a relationship rather late and became a father when he was 64 years old. His wife is from Morocco and has never felt comfortable here. She lives in western Switzerland, where French is spoken. He lived there near Zurich. His relationship with this woman seems to me almost like that of my father to his Thai). In any case, now everything has to be settled, including the funeral, which will be on 30 January.
So I do not get bored, I have a lot to do in school. We have to disc the certificates for the students, there are further trainings every week after school and besides that I still have my therapies.
As you can see, there is not much free time at the moment. I finished a book that I will describe shortly.

Thanks for the update, Barb. Sounds like a lot going on in your life right now. Sorry to hear about the death. Good luck with everything.

>182 msf59: Thanks so much, Mark. I'm so sorry that I don't have enough time to visit your thread and those from the others.

book 3 Read in German

 The Little Red Chairs
IAC January

This is a very special story. It starts in Sarajevo, where a red chair stands for each victim. Then the story shifts to Ireland, where one day a stranger comes and turns the contemplative, quiet and boring life of the villagers on its head. At first I found this part very pleasant to read, but I kept wondering what this has to do with Sarajevo. It became clear in about half of the story. This stranger was none other than the butcher of Sarajevo, who of course was a Devil in contemplative Ireland. His victim Fidelma had to flee after a very tragic experience. She traveled to London. There she experienced what it means to be a refugee. She gets accommodation with an African woman who came to England years ago as a refugee. She gets to know the stories of the refugee women. It also topics such as the mutilation of the female genital part, rape and suppression. Fidelma takes a long time to open up to others and find her way. She is also encouraged to participate in the negotiations of her torturer at the War Tribunal in The Hague.
What I like about this book is that the devilish is called by name. What I don't like is that the second part (London) is a very own story - very valuable - but somehow too little linked to the first part.

Hi Barbara!

More sad things for you, but it sounds like things are moving along with your dad. I'm sorry to hear about Thomas's god-father.

*hugs*

Next reading:

 Blue Nights

>185 karenmarie: Thanks so much, Karen. It isn't currently an easy time.

Barbara--I am just catching up here. So much turmoil! I wish your father and your family lots of luck as you work through this life change. Wow. Big hugs.

Stopping by to get caught up. Very sorry to see that your January continues to bring struggles and sorrow your way.

>184 Ameise1: Edna O'Brien's books are often like that, episodic, and occasionally not well enough knitted together.

Sending as much comfort as you can find.

Such difficult time, Barbara. I'm glad that things are getting settled . Sending you comfort. Sorry to hear about your godfather's passing.

I'm very glad that you have siblings to lean on. I too am blessed in that department. Take care Barbara!

>184 Ameise1: You liked it more than I did.

Keep reading!
(that was a message from your personal cheer squad)
:)

Hi Barbara. I'm sorry to hear about the death of your husbands godfather. I'm hoping for some comfort for you.

What a tough start to the year, Barbara. Sending you lots of positive thoughts.

Hi Barbara, you are having a tough beginning to 2018 my dear, sorry to hear about the death of your husbands godfather. Sending love and hugs from both of us dear friend to you all and hope that things get better from here.

((((Barbara))))

Gosh, Barbara; there's a lot going on with you. Wishing you the best with everything. You always have our support on LT.

Hi Barbara! So glad you found me. I'm so sorry to catch you in the middle of so many going ons. My crazy gang will be thinking of you and cheering you on!

Hugs!

Just checking in to say that I hope things are getting better for you.

*hugs*

I'm just catching up with your thread, Barbara. We have not had any success getting my mother-in-law to fill out a living will. She is afraid of death, and is not in good health right now and is very depressed. But when my father-in-law passed away last year, she was very adamant about how the wake and funeral should be organized and very critical of the children's ideas and suggestions. It was a stressful time for her. She had been married to the love of her life for over 72 years so her being upset is of course understandable. But a month ago when my husband suggested a living will so that they could be sure to do everything the way she would want, she threw a big fit and accused him and his siblings of wanting her to go sooner than she's ready. So I'm in awe of you and your siblings being able to persuade your dad to write his living will.

I just realized I'm going to be on a long layover in Zurich - 12 hours on Wednesday. Yaay. That will give me plenty of time to leave my bags at the airport and take the train into the city for a few hours. I'm thinking of going into the Old Town. The last time I was in Zurich was more than 10 years ago. My husband has never been, so I know he will love your city. It's during a work weekday, so I'm not going to suggest a Meetup when you have so much on your plate.

Hi Barbara, just stopping by my dear and hope you and the family had a good weekend and that everything is well with you all. Sending love and hugs to you all from both of us dear friend.

Barbara, I'm checking in to say I've got what bits can still be crossed fully involved in sending you calming soothing aetheric vibes.

Hi Barbara, sorry to hear about your husband's godfather. I hope that you have a relaxing weekend coming up and that things with your family are being resolved.

Hi! Just checking up on you. Hugs.

Barbara, I hope you are doing okay. It's been awhile since you've posted. We miss you!

*hugs*

Thinking about you, Barbara.

Hi Barbara, just stopping by and hoping all is going well for your and your family.

Another one here adding best wishes, Barbara, and hoping that your weekend will be stress reduced at the very least.

Sending good wishes your way, Barbara, take care!

Dear friends, thanks so much for all your kind words, your support, your thoughts and your hugs. We had a busy time and I even missed a meetup with Caro (that's so sad).
Thomas and Marina are leaving tomorrow for the ski holiday in Davos whereas I have to work another week before I can join them.
I was able to finish reading one book and two audios which I'll report another time.
Today it's Marina's 19th birthday. All your friends are here and there is no room left for Thomas and I. Therefor we're going to the library first and later have dinner at a restaurant.
I'll hope to join more LT in the near future. I love you all.

Good to see you here, Barbara.

Love and hugs back to you too, Barbara!

Happy birthday to Marina.

Happy birthday to Marina, and lots of weekend hugs to you!

Happy birthday to Marina and happy weekend to all of you!

Glad to hear from you Barbara!

Have a wonderful weekend of birthday celebrations. :)

book 4 Read in German

 Blue Nights
AAC January

That was an interesting read. Didion remembers her daughter. It begins with her wedding, because the pictures of the clothes have impressed her. In between, she tells of saying goodbye in the hospital when her daughter died. She talks about the bondage of the two women and how her daughter repeatedly claimed that she must be the strong and her mother needed her. This becomes clear in the course of reading, because Ddion slowly loses her memory and steers towards dementia.
The story is told with love and humor.

Thanks so much, Nina, Karen, Anita and Val. Marina had a great evening with her friends.Thomas and I met by accident in the restaurant an old friend and also spent a cozy evening. Almost everything is packed for the holidays in Davos, so I do not have to carry a suitcase when I go to Davos next Friday after work. Marina had a great evening with her friends. Thomas and I met by accident in the restaurant an old friend and also spent a cozy evening. Almost everything is packed for the holidays in Davos, so I do not have to carry a suitcase when I go to Davos next Friday after work. Thomas will leave soon.

Happy Saturday, Barb. Hope all is well with you. Glad you enjoyed Blue Nights. This one is on my list too. I love Didion.

Happy Saturday to you as well, Mark. I have a busy couple of weeks behind me. Touch wood, I'm ok - no flu or so - and I'm looking forward to my ski holiday. I enjoyed Didion and will read more of her. I hope you'll like that book as much as I did.

book 5 ♫ Read in German

 The Silkworm

A good solid crime thriller. For my taste a bit too bloodthirsty and morbid. I got to know Cormoran and his coworker better. I have to say, they are developing into a dreamteam.

book 6 ♫ Read in German

 Mercier and Camier
IAC April

This is a great story peppered with humor, laughter and wink. A book that I can highly recommend.
Beckett proves his high linguistic ability. Mercier and Camier are on the move, constantly pondering on trifles such as who was at a meeting point first, about the sense and nonsense of an umbrella, about friendship and what happened to the bike. There is a steady language exchange between the two at the highest level, which often made me laugh.

Currently reading:

 Der König, die Sonne, der Tod: Mexikanische Trilogie

Currently listening:

 Mr Mercedes

>105 Ameise1: Good Morning Barbara! What a great review of The Miniaturist. I own this book. I vow to find where I stored it and read it soon. Mercier and Camier sounds good as well. You are reading some great books.

>227 Whisper1: Thanks so much, Linda. So far it's a good reading year.

Hi Barbara, hope Marina had a lovely birthday my dear and that you had a really nice evening and meal. Enjoy your break in Davos dear friend and send love and hugs from both of us.

>229 johnsimpson: Thanks so much, John. Marina had a fantastic evening. I have another week to work. It's only Thomas and Marina who already are at Davos. Thomas sent some photos from the surrounding of the house in Davos when he arrived yesterday. Mounts of snow :-)

Glad you will have a break Barbara. Hope you get to relax with the books.

Have a relaxing time, Barbara.

Enjoy your break, Barbara. You have certainly earned it.

I hope you have a relaxing break, Barbara.

Hi Barbara! I hope your vacation is going well.

Thanks so much, Charlotte, Joe, Deb, Meg and Karen. I'm still working this week. Thomas and Marina are already at Davos. I'm leaving to join them on Friday after work.

I don't know how you can be so calm about waiting! DAVOS!!! So so gorgeous. Stay strong, my friend. Sending much love to you and yours.

>237 richardderus: Thanks so much, Rdear. I arrived safely. Yeh, finally holiday.

Glad to hear you arrived safely, Barbara, wishing you a good time in Davos.

Happy Saturday, Barb. I hope you are enjoying Mr. Mercedes. I liked the first two books but have not got to the third. Have a good weekend.

Hi Barbara! Okay, NOW I wish for you a wonderful vacation!

I saw the Davos photo on FB. It's official: I *hate* you.

*smooch*

I am also in the holiday mood, Barbara, because of you - just as I am starting a working week!

ENJOY.

>239 FAMeulstee: Thanks so much, Anita. So far I have a wonderful time here in Davos.

>240 msf59: Thanks so much, Mark. Mr. Mercedes is a fabulous story. My library has got the audios of the two others too. So I'll definitely fetch them too.

>241 karenmarie: Yep, I'm officially on holiday and enjoy it very much so far.

>242 richardderus: I love you and here how it looked like this morning. *smooch*



>243 PaulCranswick: I hope your work week is off to a good start, Paul.

book 7 Read in German

 Der König, die Sonne, der Tod
BB from Lynda (Carmenere)

This is an interesting trilogy. The first part tells the story of a singer. Involuntarily / voluntarily, he is ordered to the 'court' of a cartel boss. There he tells the hero's deeds of the boss who acts like a king. On the other hand, he experiences all the intrigues, power games and killings that take place in this 'yard' and he always tries not to fall into disfavour. On the other hand, there is one person he tries to free from the clutches of the rulers. The story is exciting and shows how it goes back and forth behind the scenes of a cartel.
The second story is about a young woman crossing the border to find her brother in the United States. It shows how the human smuggling works across the border, such as tugs money is given as a hand washes the other and how those affected at the end but the poor bastards are. This part of the Mexican trilogy is written very sensitively.
The third part is written witty, even if its content is not laughable. It's almost like the legacy of Romeo and Juliet, only this time the warring Mexican cartels are the families. In one family, the daughter is found dead in the other the son. Both have not been killed by anyone but have died from tragic accidents. Nevertheless, both families accuse the other of killing their child. A mediator has his hands full to bring the truth to light, while he himself has enough own problems on his neck and runs the risk that he is killed in the whole action itself. n addition, he currently has a problem with his love life, which seems to occupy him more than his case.

Next reading:

 Love and Summer

Yesterday the weather wasn't so good so we stayed at our holiday home. Today we had deep blue skies and the snow is fantastic. Skiing is still a lot of fun. We also saw some ibexes and enjoyed the hours outside in the sun. Of course I made a stop in the Kaffee Klatsch (coffee gossip) at the end and let myself be pampered there with a fine coffee and a raspberry slices.

   

Yup. It's official. I am jealous. : ) Hope you continue to have a great time.

>249 Berly: Thinking of you when enjoying my holiday.

>248 Ameise1: Gorgeous photos, Barbara! Wishing you happy.

I am reading Arthur & George and the main character just took his invalid wife to...wait for it... Davos! and he set off on skis to distract himself from his guilt through "violent exercise." LOL

Beautiful pictures! I'm currently sitting at that table near the railing and enjoying the view of the mountains. With a raspberry slice and coffee.

>251 Crazymamie: Thanks so much, Mamie. Unfortunately, it's cloudy today. So, we'll see for how long we're going on the slopes.

>252 Berly: Sounds interesting, Kim. I'm looking forward to your review. My library hasn't got a copy of it but I put it on my wishlist.

>252 Berly: Hi Jennifer, there you would have a splendid view and some sweets and coffee is a perfect match.

Please join me on my new thread.