MickyFine Seeks Out Joy in 2023, Part 4

While I'm lucky if my tulips bloom by the end of April (they're much more likely to show up in early May), they're my second favourite flower and I love to pick up a bouquet of them around Easter every year when I have a four-day weekend to enjoy them.

I'm Micky, 36 years old, librarian, and generally bookish nerd. I usually have a good mix of reads going on every year with strong doses of romance, sff, historicals, and a dash of non-fiction. This year my goal is to only read books that bring me joy, which means I'm likely to read a bunch of genre fiction. As part of that goal, I'm also striving to re-read more books from my own collection and will be using a D20 to select a shelf and then choose a book from there at least once a month.

I do my best to be chatty on my own thread and in addition to my reading, I'll also discuss highlights of my craft projects (check out my NeedleArts thread if you like more details), board games, what we're watching, and general life goings on often featuring my husband, Mr. Fine, and our two cats, Ash and Smee. Posters and lurkers alike are welcome.

January
1. Captain Carter: Woman Out of Time - Jamie McKelvie et. al.
2. Pies and Prejudice - Ellery Adams
3. Giant-Size Gwen Stacy - Christos Gage et. al.
4. Cranford - Elizabeth Gaskell
5. She-Hulk #7 - Rainbow Rowell et. al.
6. She-Hulk #8 - Rainbow Rowell et. al.
7. She-Hulk #9 - Rainbow Rowell et. al.
8. Paris Is Always a Good Idea - Jenn McKinlay
9. Scattered Showers - Rainbow Rowell
10. Mad and Bad: Real Heroines of the Regency - Bea Koch
11. All the Feels - Olivia Dade
12. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow - Jessica Townsend (re-read)
13. Have I Told You This Already? Stories I Don't Want to Forget to Remember - Lauren Graham
14. Love on the Brain - Ali Hazelwood
Favourite(s):


February
15. Fangirl - Rainbow Rowell (re-read)
16. The Dark Archive - Genevieve Cogman
17. Pardonable Lies - Jacqueline Winspear
18. Hollow - Shannon Watters, Branden Boyer-White, and Berenice Nelle
19. Ship Wrecked - Olivia Dade
20. Death in the Stacks - Jenn McKinlay
21. Codex Born - Jim C. Hines
22. Take a Hint, Dani Brown - Talia Hibbert
23. Q-Squared - Peter David (re-read)
Favourite(s):


March
24. The Song of the Quarkbeast - Jasper Fforde
25. The Accidental Beauty Queen - Teri Wilson
26. The Bookshop on the Shore - Jenny Colgan
27. She-Hulk #10 - Rainbow Rowell, et. al.
28. The Spare Man - Mary Robinette Kowal
29. Well Met - Jen DeLuca
30. The Murder on the Links - Agatha Christie
31. Adler - Lavie Tidhar
32. Undercover Bromance - Lyssa Kay Adams
33. All Systems Red - Martha Wells (re-read)
Favourite(s):

April
34. A Discovery of Witches - Deborah Harkness (re-read)
35. Oddball - Sarah Andersen
36. She Hulk #11 - Rainbow Rowell et. al.
37. Shadow of Night - Deborah Harkness
38. All Creatures Great and Small - James Herriot
39. Well Played - Jen DeLuca
40. The Book of Life - Deborah Harkness
41. Say Yes to the Marquess - Tessa Dare
Favourite(s):

May
Favourite(s):

June
Favourite(s):

My rating system:

/ = Ran screaming in the other direction (aka did not finish)
* = Suffered through it for reasons I'm still not sure of
** = Had far more flaws than virtues
*** = A read I don't regret but could use some improvement
**** = A good, solid read that I might revisit
***** = Loved it beyond reason and will probably re-read in short order

The weekend's adventures: Saturday morning Mr. Fine and I got up early to put together apple crisp. Then we did breakfast and went to church. After we got home, we did the final bit of setting up for hosting my family for lunch. My brother and his family were about 45 minutes early (unusual for them) so we went to the nearby playground so the kids could run around. Had a great lunch of grilled hamburgers, two kinds of slaw, potatoes, and the crisp for dessert. Then we did gifts as the gathering was an early birthday celebration for my brother and my oldest niece. Everyone had left by late afternoon and Mr. Fine and I were totally wiped. I spent some solo time cross-stitching and listening to an audiobook while he gamed (can you say introverts?). We had a snacky supper and I only had enough energy for one episode of TV before heading to bed to read for a bit and then sleep. Today, I attempted to sleep in (didn't particularly succeed though). We had a nice big breakfast and then tackled some chores and bill stuff. I spent a chunk of the afternoon video gaming and moving laundry through the machines. This evening we're doing Greek night for supper - chicken souvlaki skewers from Costco, rice, and Greek salad. *drool*

What I'm reading: I'm just over 200 pages into A Discovery of Witches. It's been about a decade since I read it last and it's interesting to see which bits feel familiar and what I've completely forgotten. Also made decent progress on All Creatures Great and Small on audio but I don't think I'll finish it before it has to go back so I've placed a hold so I can eventually wrap up the last couple hours.

What I'm crafting: Some crocheting on the wrap on Friday evening and a bit of time on the secret cross-stitch project yesterday afternoon.

What we're watching: Both Friday and Saturday evening we just watched Resident Alien.

Happy new one, Mickey!

Happy new thread, Micky! Your Saturday sounds fun but also exhausting to this fellow introvert :)

HAppy new one!

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread, Micky.

Happy new thread Micky!

>1 MickyFine: I do love the spring bulb flowers the most, but they aren't all that compatible with the So. Cal climate, even if I didn't kill any plant I took in. Sometimes I used to pick up Dutch iris and daffodils from Trader Jo's, staggering the purchases so I'd have both at once. Tulips and hyacinths are favorites I see much less often.

Hi Micky. I love tulips too but sure miss the earlier spring bulbs.
It's hard to be unable to grow snowdrops and crocus (species Crocus, not the Anemones) in Saskatchewan. I especially miss the Narcissus family, too.

I got way behind on your earlier thread. I will have to skim and get caught up.

Happy New Thread, Micky!

Happy new thread, Micky!

First tulips are coming up here, flowers in a week or two, I hope.

Happy new thread and happy new week, Micky!

Happy new thread! I also love tulips, but haven't had much luck growing them. (Squirrels.) So I like to buy some cut ones in the spring to enjoy. Daffodils are blooming here -- mine are up but not blooming much; I transplanted them last year so I don't expect much of a show this year.

Happy new one, Micky! Your topper is full of gorgeous - tulips are my favorite, but unfortunately, they do not get along with the Deep South. We had hundreds of bulbs that came up every Spring at our Indiana home, and I miss them.

>5 drneutron: Thanks, Jim!

>6 curioussquared: Thanks, Natalie. It's family so it's less exhausting than strangers but having 10 extra people in the house is still a lot (especially when four of them are under 10 years old :P).

>7 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Anita.

>8 banjo123: Thanks, Rhonda.

>9 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul.

>10 quondame: At least you can still get spring blooms as cut flowers, Susan. Not quite as happy making as seeing them pop out of the ground but still pretty great.

>11 SandyAMcPherson: Nice to see you, Sandy!

>12 vancouverdeb: Thanks, Deb.

>13 FAMeulstee: That's lovely, Anita. We're supposed to get quite warm on the long weekend so I'll start my tulip shoot watch then. :)

>15 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie! Same to you!

>16 foggidawn: Thankfully we don't have a ton of squirrels around our house. There's a couple outdoor cats that roam our neighbourhood that probably discourage them. Did have to put wood chips in my flower beds though to keep said cats from... availing themselves of them, lol.

>17 Crazymamie: Thanks, Mamie. I can grow tulips where I live but also white flakes came out of the sky yesterday (and might today) so a little bit of warmth sounds a little enviable at the moment. :)

What's on the agenda: It's a Monday morning and I'm still kicking so we'll take that as a win. Mr. Fine is on later shift (so far) this week so we got to commute together this morning. Tasks today will include ordering replacement copies of expiring content in OverDrive, customer suggestions, doing my on camera interview for one of the local news stations, and depending on how all that goes, maybe some time with the new issue of AudioFile. Perogies, sausage, and salad for supper tonight. I've skipped it the last two weeks so I'm going to make an effort to actually go to virtual craft circle this evening.

What I'm reading: A Discovery of Witches is likely to show up here most of the week.

What I'm crafting: Finished another block on the crochet wrap and started the next.

What we're watching: A couple episodes of Picard and I also watched an episode of OUAT on my own.

Happy new thread, Micky! Our early spring bulbs have already come and gone. The peonies are coming up here. Everything is about a month early this year.

Happy new thread, Micky! Love the spring flowers especially the cherry blossoms which are starting to show around here although our season is delayed because we keep getting hit with Arctic air. Doesn't seem like it has affected the dandelions much though.

I caught up with your last thread and got hit by a few BBs. You can always be counted on for some interesting romance titles.

>20 atozgrl: I'm hoping my peonies will bloom this year (although around here they usually show late May or early June). Of the 6 bulbs I planted, 5 of them put up plants last year but they were all small and none of them bloomed. I know they take a year or two to establish though so I'm hopeful this year they'll make more of a show.

>21 Familyhistorian: Ah cherry blossoms. They usually don't show here until May (sometimes June). And more than happy to add more romance reads to your life, Meg. :)

What's on the agenda: Another in office day for me and Mr. Fine's shift did not get swapped around so we once again got to commute together this morning. Work today has a pretty long to do list as some random things came up yesterday that altered my plans. I have stats to pull for a follow-up question from my media interview yesterday, customer suggestions, my bi-weekly meeting with my manager, and a bunch of small little tasks that crop up every month. Supper tonight is chicken pesto pasta.

What I'm reading: Still A Discovery of Witches.

What I'm crafting: Made it to craft circle last night and worked on the cross-stitch tree skirt, which I haven't touched in probably a month. 14-count feels so luxurious after working the 18-count secret cross-stitch project.

What we're watching: Just one episode of Resident Alien.

Belated Happy New Thread!

I need to get back into cross stitching. I did finally make some of my projects ready for displaying -- now just need to hang them!

Happy new thread, Micky! (And yes, I had to CTRL+F to make sure I hadn't already said that.)

My daffodils have just started blooming, and I might cut some this weekend to give my mom and SIL for Easter.

>24 ArlieS: Thanks, Arlie!

>25 curioussquared: Finishing is the hardest part of any craft project so kudos for doing it. I was looking around my library the other day and realized that I have a bunch of free wall space that I could put cross-stitch on so now I have to keep my eyes open for patterns I like.

>26 bell7: Daffodils are so happy looking also. My grandparents have some in their front flower beds, intermixed with their tulips.

Free wall space in your home library?

Does. Not. Compute.

We took doors off the closet and I put one of those cube bookcases from IKEA in there. The bookcase is the hip height version (2 cubes high) so there's a bunch of wall free above it.

>29 MickyFine: - Stack 'em!

I kid, I kid. I am trying to downsize my physical library so must live vicariously through others ;-)

>30 katiekrug: I'm actually really picky about what I add to my personal library (possibly a side effect of working in a library?) so the number of books I acquire is pretty low.

>31 MickyFine: - Smart woman! I am trying to get to where my library is mostly just nice editions of books I've loved, and TBRs by known (and beloved) authors.

>32 katiekrug: That's pretty close to my philosophy of acquisition/retention. Good luck with the downsizing (it's hard, I know).

Yesterday's adventures: It wasn't a very exciting day, just pretty full and I didn't make it over here. Dropped off Mr. Fine at the bus, got gas, and took a shower before starting my work day. No fun tasks on the docket yesterday but I do find it really satisfying doing my regular check for new editions of travel guides that we purchase for our digital collections. It's a bit monotonous but so soothing. Also had two contractors visit over the course of the day to get measurements and other info for putting together quotes for replacing our deck. Hopefully we'll get quotes next week and can have a contract put together before we leave on our trip *fingers crossed*. After work, I finished a book, picked up Mr. Fine, and did a quick trip to the library. Turkey soup from the freezer for supper with a salad for me and a sandwich for Mr. Fine.

What's on the agenda: It's my Friday today as we get a four-day weekend for Easter. Dropped off Mr. Fine at the bus, cleaned litterboxes, and did some video gaming before going on the clock. Tasks today will include customer suggestions, submitting the weekly order for OverDrive, and going through the new issue of AudioFile. After work, I'm meeting up with Mr. Fine to do a few errands. Supper tonight is fish n chips. Will probably have a lazy evening in front of the TV to kick off our extra long weekend.

What I'm reading: Finished A Discovery of Witches yesterday after work. Followed it with the quick comic collection, Oddball, for my bedtime reading last night. Today I'm on to Shadow of Night.

What I'm crafting: A few rows on the crochet wrap. I'm two rows away from the point where I start decreasing so the downhill slide approaches.

What we're watching: A couple episodes of Resident Alien and the new episode of The Mandalorian. So many cool guest stars in this week's Mando!

TW watched the latest Mandalorian last night and quite enjoyed it.

Hope you have a great long weekend!

Book 34



A Discovery of Witches - Deborah Harkness (re-read)

A few weeks ago I was chatting with a friend (a fellow librarian) and we were talking books. She'd asked if I'd read the All Souls series and I said I'd enjoyed the first book but that I'd abandoned the second book fairly early on due to Matthew being an alphahole. She knew exactly what I was talking about but said I should give the books another shot (and then watch the TV series). Since she knows my tastes pretty well, I agreed to give it another spin. Thus this re-read. It's been almost a decade since I read it last but my original review of the book remains accurate:

Diana Bishop is the last of the Bishop witches and can trace her family tree all the way back to one of the witches burned at the Salem witch trials. Diana, however, has firmly turned her back on her magical lineage and has pursued a career as professor of history of science. While doing research on alchemical manuscripts at the Bodleian, Diana calls up Ashmole 782 - an alchemical text thought long lost by the magical community. Suddenly Oxford is swarmed by magical creatures all determined to discover the content of Ashmole 782 and how Diana managed to access it after hundreds of years. Among these creatures is Matthew Clairmont, a vampire, who may be interested in more than just the manuscript. As Diana and Matthew's relationship develops it will lead to a journey that crosses continents and have implications for the entire magical community.

While by no means perfect, I enjoyed this book thoroughly and raced through its pretty hefty page count in just a few days. I'll start out with the bad and end on a positive note. In terms of bad, the characterization of the leads had me sighing over traits that I find increasingly troubling. In the trope of male vampire leads, Matthew is possessive and commanding and while Diana is supposed to be an independent-minded woman with potential for great magical ability, she spends a lot of time in damsel territory. But even with those flaws I devoured this book. The settings are lusciously described and brilliantly evoked from the quiet academic atmosphere of Oxford to rural France to a small town in New York state, each described in delicious prose. Harkness also creates a fascinating mythology for her fantasy world which is complex and intriguing. Plus, there are fascinating historical flashbacks as is bound to occur when you have an ancient vampire at the core of the novel. The plot itself is a complex web with many threads left unresolved but not so many that I'm in a panic to get my hands on the next book now. If you enjoy a quieter, complex urban fantasy with a dash of historical fiction thrown in, give this one a try.

The only thing I'd add now is that the single detail from this book that stuck with me through the years was loving the magical house that Diana's family has in New York. The house held up to my memories of it.

Rating: ***1/2

We haven't watched this week's Mando yet but I was spoiled on the guest stars and I'm very excited.

>35 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie.

>37 curioussquared: As you should be. It's a pretty fun episode.

Book 35



Oddball - Sarah Andersen

I'm a long-time fan of Sarah's Scribbles and finally got around to picking up this latest collection. Her cat comics usually make me laugh the hardest but I enjoyed the whole collection and giggled a lot while reading it in bed.

Rating: ****

A life update:

On Tuesday Mr. Fine's daughter, H, let him know she and her boyfriend mutually decided to break up. If you've been around my threads for a while, you'll know we weren't the biggest fans of said boyfriend so we're happy about the news and the fact that it means he won't be joining us on our trip to Newfoundland in a couple weeks. She has been living with said boyfriend for the past year plus and is now going to be moving in with us. Details are currently thin on the ground but in theory she's moving in this weekend (her cat will be staying with the ex-boyfriend at least until we come back from Newfoundland - maybe longer as the cat still needs to be neutered and I don't want to attempt integrating him with our two male cats until he's fixed). It'll be H's first time living full time with her Dad (and me) so it'll be a learning experience for all of us. I'm happy for her to live with us but change is stressful and this is a big change so my personal stress levels have been high the last couple days. All that to say H might crop up in my updates much more frequently going forward.

>40 MickyFine: Glad the boyfriend will be out of the picture but that definitely sounds stressful! I hope everything goes smoothly.

When do you leave on your trip?

>40 MickyFine: I can see how that would be stressful, Micky. Hopefully you will be able to work out ways of living together as adults (vs. parent-child) that gives everyone a bit of what they need. It is wonderful you are there for H when she needs you.

>$0 - Oh, wow, that is a big change. It's nice that you and Mr. Fine can be there to help H.

>41 curioussquared: There will be some upheaval for sure, Natalie. We leave for our trip April 19.

>42 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura. I'm hoping figuring out how this will work will go relatively smoothly.

>43 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie.

>40 MickyFine: That *is* a big change! Good luck, and I hope everyone adjusts well.

>40 MickyFine: I'm sure it's a relief that unpromising BF is leaving the picture but living with an adult offspring is challenging enough when that individual grew up in the relationship and knows the territory and where not to trespass. Which holds for the parents as well, come to think about it, though we're harder to do anything about. You have my good wishes for smoothing out whatever kinks and stresses reveal themselves in the next months.

I often lurk on your thread, Micky and I loved your temperature crochet blanket, and you lovely needlepoint Christmas tree skirt is gorgeous! I started a thread in the 75's about 2 weeks ago, so I am de lurking.

If you are a fan of " witch Lit" - apparently the a new " genre" I can certainly give you some recommendations. I don't read a lot of " Witch lit " but I really loved Weyward, and The Ghost Woods.

I know you work as a librarian, so you might find this short article interesting. Best wishes for the change that is happening in your life. Our eldest son moved home about 2.5 years ago. He had moved out at the age of 22, but returned home at age of 36 , as he was finding finances very challenging . We were a bit uncertain at first, but it's worked out well. We laid down a few rules - he does his own cooking, cleaning and grocery shopping. I was not going back to cooking for more than my husband and I . He pays a bit of rent and for us, it's been no problem at all. But your situation is different. Best wishes.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/jan/08/witch-lit-hottest-new-genre-books

>47 vancouverdeb: Though it predates the trend The Enchantment Emporium and its sequels are an interesting take on modern witches.

>40 MickyFine: Oh wow! That is quite the change and I can see that it would cause a bit of anxiety for you! I think it's really important that if staying for the long term that there is a serious conversation about what is expected from one another.

Anyhow, I wish you a wonderful weekend!

>45 atozgrl: Thank you!

>46 quondame: Thanks, Susan. It'll be new territory for sure.

>47 vancouverdeb: Nice to see you, Deb. I'm not a huge witch lit fan but I appreciate the recommendations.

>49 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Anita. Mr. Fine and I have definitely been discussing ground rules so we'll be talking about those with H soon.

What's on the agenda: We were up a bit late for us last night but I did a terrible job of sleeping in. Woke up before 5 and despite trying to go back to sleep twice, had no success. Getting up for breakfast soon. Mr. Fine bought me berry and white chocolate scones so I'll be having those. We're going to do all the cleaning we usually do on Sundays today so that it's out of the way and we can enjoy the long weekend. Mr. Fine is planning to hit the gym afterwards so I'll walk him to the rec centre to get my daily walk in. Reading and crafting will probably occupy my solo time. I'm trying to get in 2 hours of reading every day for the long weekend so we'll see how that goes. Depending on when Mr. Fine gets back from the gym we might board game this afternoon. Supper is going to be steak sandwiches. Possibly a movie this evening.

What I'm reading: Put in a decent start on Shadow of Night. I'm pretty sure I've made it past the point where I abandoned it last time and haven't had the urge to drop it yet so that's a win.

What I'm crafting: Did a bunch of rows on the crochet wrap in the evening yesterday and am officially into the decreases.

What we're watching: We binged the last chunk of season 2 of Resident Alien and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Happy new thread, and hope things will go smoothly with H and all the changes it will bring. Have a lovely long weekend!

Yummm, scones. Good luck with your planned 2 hours of reading per day! That sounds like an excellent long weekend goal.

Good luck with your reading and crafting goals, and with your upcoming big changes. I hope all goes smoothly with H.

Wow, sounds like big changes coming, Micky, even if welcome ones. Hope everything goes smoothly with H. moving in and that you have an excellent long weekend.

>52 aktakukac: Thanks, Rachel.

>53 curioussquared: The scones were SO good. I got in 2 hours yesterday so off to a good start.

>54 foggidawn: Thanks so much, Foggi.

>55 bell7: Thanks, Mary.

What's (been) on the agenda: Finally slept until a decent hour and was awake only 2 minutes before my alarm. Showered, had a lovely breakfast, and then went to church. After we got home, we went for a walk as it's beautiful out today, sunny and warm-ish (around 12°C when we were out). Quiet afternoon of reading and crafting for me and video gaming for Mr. Fine. We're off for our monthly game night with friends this evening. We're doing a bunch of appetizers for dinner and picked up spanikopita, cauliflower bites, and an Indian platter from M&M's for our share. Should be tasty. Likely home late.

What I'm reading: Making good progress in Shadow of Night.

What I'm crafting: Spent time working on the cross-stitch tree skirt last night.

What we're playing: Friday afternoon we finally gave Star Wars: Outer Rim a try. I gifted it to Mr. Fine for his birthday in November last year. There's a bit of a learning curve but it turned out pretty fun. I wiped the floor with Mr. Fine. 😆

What we're watching: Mr. Fine picked Catching Fire for movie night, continuing his rewatch of the Hunger Games series. Followed it with a couple episodes of Bluey.

Hooray for nice weather, appetizers for dinner, and game night!

>58 foggidawn: They were all delightful!

Yesterday's adventures: Nothing too exciting here. Lazed in bed for a while before having breakfast. Did a bit of video gaming. Went on a trip to the comic book store then swung by the grocery store to get a few things we were running low on and finally to a store to exchange some socks that had a production flaw. In the afternoon we had our traditional Easter game of Wingspan using candy eggs instead of the plastic ones. Fun and delicious. I cross-stitched in front of the TV while Mr. Fine dinner. We had slow cooker roast beef, mashed potatoes, and roasted carrots. Then we had a chill evening watching TV.

What's on the agenda: Mr. Fine and I both get Easter Monday off so one more long weekend day around here. Pan scramble is planned for breakfast. Otherwise, no major plans for the day at all. H might be moving some of her stuff here today but she wasn't entirely sure about that yesterday. There will probably be gaming (both video and board), crafting, reading, and a walk done at some point today. Homemade pizza for supper.

What I'm reading: Saturday I put in time with both Shadow of Night and All Creatures Great & Small. Yesterday I just read my new comic (She-Hulk #11).

What I'm crafting: There's been progress on both the secret cross-stitch project and the crochet wrap.

What we're playing: Saturday game night was Scythe with the airships expansion (Mr. Fine won). Yesterday was the aforementioned game of Wingspan (Mr. Fine won that too).

What we're watching: While crafting, I watched some OUAT. Together we watched one episode of Picard and then the 1995 version of Sabrina. I love that movie so much. 😍

What's on the agenda: Back to the work grind and in the office for it to boot. Work will involve a lot of catch up as there are a bunch of tasks that normally happen on Fridays and Mondays that I now get to cram into Tuesday (and will probably trickle into tomorrow). Plus I have two meetings. Mac n cheese from scratch for supper tonight, which is perfect timing as it's cool and rainy today. The precipitation is supposed to turn white later today - welcome to spring in Canada.

What I'm reading: About halfway through Shadow of Night now.

What I'm crafting: Spent time yesterday on both the secret cross-stitch project and the crochet wrap.

What we're watching: I watched a few episodes of OUAT while crafting. Together we watched a couple episodes of Alias and one of The Muppet Show.

Book 36



She-Hulk #11 - Rainbow Rowell et. al.

Jen is settling back into her routine and working out her frustrations about her relationship with Jack of Hearts in her super powers fight club. When the Fantastic Four asks her to help out on a stake out, she meets a super powered mystery man who's up to no good but no one quite knows what.

Solid set up of the next arc for She-Hulk. As long as Rainbow Rowell is writing these, I'll keep picking them up. :)

Rating: ****

I hope the re-entry to work isn't too onerous :)

>63 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie. Lots of the to do list is carrying over to tomorrow but it was decent work day overall. Now to survive the commute as my usual bus stop is closed so I have to walk further and will thus end up catching a later bus in all likelihood. *pout*

What's on the agenda: In the office again today. Long to do list again as I still have a bunch of customer suggestions lingering from the long weekend plus I had a few email questions that came up and ate up some of my time yesterday. I also have a meeting and a job shadow today so we'll see how much of the list I make it through. After work, Mr. Fine and I will make a quick trip to the library as I have a hold to pick up. Butter chicken for supper tonight. My monthly massage is booked for this evening.

What I'm reading: Hoping to wrap up Shadow of Night today but we'll see how it goes.

What I'm crafting: I'm into the penultimate section of the crochet wrap. Think I might finish it before we leave.

What we're watching: We started Chuck last night. The first few episodes were pretty fun.

drive-by *smooch*

Dropping in to say hi! Yum, butter chicken.

>66 richardderus: Aww, thanks, RDear. Smooches right back.

>67 curioussquared: Hi Natalie. It's nothing fancy, we just use sauce from a jar and add coconut milk to it to improve the flavour.

What's on the agenda: Back to the sweet WFH life for the rest of the week. Dropped off Mr. Fine at the bus, went for my daily walk after I got home, took a shower, and did a bit of video gaming before going on the clock. The to do list is still pretty long as customer suggestions keep on coming and the meetings I've had lately have meant I haven't had time for other selection tasks. Hopefully I'll power through a bunch of tasks today but I do have a meeting this afternoon so we'll see how it goes. After work, I'll meet up with Mr. Fine and do a small grocery shop to get us through the next 5 days. Supper tonight will be grocery store Chinese food (they actually do it really well there, surprisingly).

What I'm reading: I had more pages left in Shadow of Night yesterday than I thought, so I should wrap it up today.

What I'm crafting: Nothing.

What I'm watching: Two episodes of The Muppet Show.

Hope you can catch up on some stuff today! Yay for some Muppet Show :)

>70 curioussquared: Thanks, Nathalie. It's fun to see which celebrities I recognize/know and which are completely unknown to me (last night both were unfamiliar for me). The Muppets remain delightful though regardless of whether I know the guest.

>71 MickyFine: Same. There are some celebrities I only know because I watched their Muppet Show episodes as a kid, lol.

Yesterday's adventures: Dropped off Mr. Fine at the bus. Did a bit of video gaming but wasn't really in the mood for it so I switched to crocheting with the TV on in the background before starting work. Managed to power through a bunch of tasks but I'm still going to have two very full days at work next week. After work I did some tidying and moved my electric piano out of what will again be H's room (it had a about a year being a guest room). Supper was tacos. Watched a movie with Mr. Fine, then we each did a bit of solo video gaming. I also blocked my crochet wrap before heading to bed.

What's on today's agenda: Had a shower and breakfast first thing this morning. Currently sipping my London Fog before I finish getting ready for church. After the service we'll hang out at home with board gaming and crafting likely tasks. H is supposed to be bringing some of her stuff by today as she's not working. Depending on when she does that (and how many trips she makes), Mr. Fine and I will probably do a walk at some point this afternoon too. Stir fry for supper tonight.

What I'm reading: Started Well Played on my lunch yesterday and enjoying it so far.

What I'm crafting: Finished crocheting the wrap, wove in all the ends, and it's currently blocking in my library.

What we're watching: While crafting I watched a few episodes of OUAT. Mr. Fine picked Fool's Gold for the movie last night. Good cast but underwhelming otherwise.

What's on the agenda: Woke up a little after 6 and will probably get out of bed soon. Bagel and tea for breakfast this morning before tackling the usual Sunday cleaning and bill stuff. While doing laundry, I'll also start packing for our trip. Mr. Fine has his monthly game day with his guy friends but one of the other guys is hosting this time so I'll get the house to myself for a big chunk of the day. Once adulting is out of the way, I should go for a walk since the weather is supposed to be beautiful (sunny and 17°C) and then I'll probably craft. Supper will be spaghetti and meatballs.

What I'm reading: Finished the audiobook of All Creatures Great and Small.

What I'm crafting: More stitching on the secret cross-stitch project and I started crocheting a toque with the some of the leftover yarn from the wrap.

What we're playing: Mr. Fine picked Everdell for our board game and we tied.

What we're watching: I picked Tangled for a movie last night. Still super fond of that one.

Happy Sunday, Micky! Enjoy that alone time :)

I still haven't seen Tangled...

>75 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie. It was mostly spent puttering but it was good.

Depending on how much you enjoy Disney animated films, Tangled might be one to try at some point. I think it's a really cute riff on the Rapunzel fairy tale.

What's on the agenda: It's an in office Monday. Mr. Fine is on early shift today (he's got tomorrow off, unlike me) and it was bit rough getting up this morning as the house was a little too warm last night and I had a hard time getting to sleep. Started work doing prep for the workshop I was supposed to be co-leading tomorrow, however it has now been cancelled. The course was designed to be led by 3-4 librarians and was rearranged to be led by 2 after we found out one of my colleagues will be taking a 6 month leave of absence as her partner passed away last week. The remaining colleague I was supposed to co-lead with tested positive for COVID over the weekend and the workshop cannot be led solo, so while the reasons are awful, I'm not upset to be off the hook for tomorrow. It gives me much more time today and tomorrow to power through the work to do list and means I can WFH tomorrow giving me more time to do last-minute trip prep instead of commuting. In addition to all the work tasks (customer suggestions and going through review journals being highest on the list), I've also got a coffee meeting this afternoon with a librarian who works in the system and wants to pick my brain about the temp position they've created to fill in for my colleague's leave of absence. Supper tonight is chuckerout. I think I'm going to try and make it to virtual craft circle this evening as I won't be able to make it for the next couple weeks.

What I'm reading: Nearly halfway through Well Played. Should be able to finish it by tomorrow so that I can return it to the library before we leave.

What I'm crafting: I did a bit of work on a crochet dish cloth. Trying to wrap this one up before we go so I can start (and finish) a few more while we're away.

What we're watching: During my solo time, I finished season 1 of OUAT and watched the first episode of season 2. Together we watched a couple episodes of Picard (still not caught up but less behind than we were).

Book 37



Shadow of Night - Deborah Harkness

In the second book in the All Souls series, follows Matthew and Diana as they travel back in time to 1590s London. Their main goals are to attempt to access the magical Ashmole 782 manuscript that is inaccessible in modern Oxford, as well as to find witches who can help Diana to understand her magic. But life in the past is more complicated than Mattthew and Diana anticipated and the longer they stay, the more ripples they cause in the present.

I abandoned this book the first time I tried it several years ago. I do think it benefits from being read closely to the first book. There are a lot of details and world rules that benefit from still being fresh in my memory. I also found that Matthew was less annoying when his major character flaws were still freshly familiar from the first book. I will say that the draw for me with these books is the plot and the world-building and that the romance between the two main characters isn't the draw that normally would be for me. I still find reading the series highly enjoyable but unusually it's not the characters or the relationships that keep me invested.

Rating: ***1/2

Book 38



All Creatures Great and Small - James Herriot

James Herriot's memoirs of his early years working as an assistant vet in the Yorkshire dales in the late 1930s and early 1940s.

Watching the new series adapted from Herriot's books had me curious about the source material. I was particularly interested to see what artistic license was taken with the source material (although some additional internet research was illuminating about Herriot and the liberties he took with his own memories). The stories recounted here are charming and often funny. The audiobook edition I listened to is capably narrated by Christopher Timothy, who will be familiar to fans of the 1970s TV adaptation as the actor who played James in that version.

Rating: ****

Sorry for your coworkers who are going through some things, but yay for not having to do your workshop :) Well Played might be my next book -- need to decide if I think I can get through it before it's due back to the library.

>80 curioussquared: Much like Well Met it's a very quick read, if that helps. :)

What's on the agenda: It's a Tuesday that feels like a Friday and I'm WFH. Didn't have to get up until 6 although I was awake probably an hour before the alarm because my brain is currently really into worrying/planning about what we'll do if we miss our connection in Toronto tomorrow (our layover is only an hour). Work will be trying to power through as much of the to do list as possible. There's still customer suggestion to get through and I'm hoping to do a bunch of selection from journals, but we'll see what my inbox looks like. I'm the only collections librarian working today and my manager is off as well (although the associate manager is in so I'm not completely without an adultier adult) so I'm the one who gets to answer any emails that come in to our group. I need to swing by the library today to return a couple things and then pop by the gas station to top up the car. Of course, there's also the last of the packing to do. I got all my clothes sorted on the weekend but there's still toiletries and such to get together. Supper tonight is charcuterie.

What I'm reading: Starting The Book of Life today.

What I'm crafting: Worked on the cross-stitch Christmas tree skirt at craft circle last night.

What we're watching: An episode each of Alias, The Muppet Show (with Candice Bergen, a celebrity I actually know!), and Bluey.

Book 39



Well Played - Jen DeLuca

Stacey has been feeling stuck in her small town for the last couple years, where she lives in an apartment above her parents' garage and the biggest highlight in her life is the annual Renaissance Faire. She's in desperate need of a change, so on the spur of the moment she messages Dex, one of the performers who works the Ren Faire circuit and who she's hooked up with a few times. Soon, she and Dex are regularly trading messages. She's pretty surprised when Dex's emails and texts reveal a completely different man than the one she thought she knew. Of course, the reason the messages are so different is that the texts aren't from Dex at all...

This second book in the Well Met series of romances is just as cute as the first. Stacey's flirtation via text with "Dex" is very sweet and there are hints of Cyrano de Bergerac throughout that section. The Renaissance Faire chunks of the plot continue to be a delight and it's also lovely to see Emily and Simon from the first novel crop up regularly in this one. Recommended if you liked the first book in the series.

Rating: ****

The crochet wrap finished blocking yesterday!



Pattern: River Grove Wrap
Designer: Janine Myska
Yarn: Worsted weight 100% superwash merino in Glass Slipper, Antique Lace, Heirloom, and Satin Slip from Gingersnapthat
Hook size: 6 and 6.5 mm

>81 MickyFine: I'm gonna try! I think it's available from a different library right away if my hold expires too quickly :)

>82 MickyFine: I'm sending good vibes for the tight layover tomorrow!

I completely understand your travel-related anxiety & sleeplessness. I suffer from that too. And usually everything turns out fine!

Your wrap is so pretty.

Hope your work tasks, the rest of your packing, travel, and the layover all go well!

Safe - and on time! - travels tomorrow, Micky!

>85 curioussquared: Yay! I hope it's good on audio. And much thanks for the travel well wishes.

>86 lauralkeet: We booked our flight on Wednesday to give ourselves some buffer time in case of delays and cancellations anyway but still, my brain fusses. Thanks for the sympathies, Laura. And I'm super pleased with how the wrap turned out (and getting compliments from a master knitter feels extra good *grin*).

>87 aktakukac: Much thanks, Rachel!

>88 katiekrug: I wouldn't mind so much if the plane out of Toronto were a bit late but I'll take on time all around too. :)

What's on the agenda: Happy Wednesday, friends. It's travel day! And despite being awake for a bit during the night, I managed to turn my brain off and go back to sleep. Got up around 7:30 and did some final tidying. Currently having breakfast and then will do the final bit of packing. My Dad is driving us to the airport and will be here in an hour-ish (H is getting her own ride and will meet us at the airport). Our flight to Toronto leaves at 1:30 p.m. so we should have time to grab lunch and snacks at the terminal. Then we hope everything goes smoothly so that our 1-hour layover in Toronto is sufficient for getting to our flight to St. John’s. We're supposed to arrive in Newfoundland just before 1 a.m. tomorrow. The car rental is open until 2 so hopefully I should be able to pick up the car and then we'll head to a nearby airport hotel to sleep. Good thoughts, prayers, and general well wishes for smooth travels are greatly appreciated.

What I'm reading: Managed a couple chapters in The Book of Life yesterday. Planning to read on the first flight today so I should put a good dent in it.

What I'm crafting: Finished a crochet dish cloth that's been in progress forever.

What we're watching: A couple episodes of Chuck and then while Mr. Fine was in the bath, I watched an episode of OUAT.

Happy travel day! Sending good vibes for getting there and have a good trip!

Bon Voyage Micky! I hope you have a wonderful trip.

>90 MickyFine: Safe travels and fun visiting with your family.

Thanks Natalie, Laura, and Richard!

Hope you have a great trip!

What's on the agenda: Everything went smoothly yesterday and we made it to St. John's on time. Much thanks to everyone who sent out good thoughts. Going to get up and shower shortly then snag whatever the hotel is offering for complimentary breakfast. Afterwards we'll hit the road and drive the 3-4 hours to where my in-laws live. We'll stop at the midway point for some lunch but most of today will probably just be travel. No clue what supper will be.

What I'm reading: According to Libby, I'm 39% through The Book of Life.

What I'm crafting: Nada.

What I'm watching: Couple episodes of OUAT on flight #2.

I'm happy to see your traveling day went smoothly, Micky.

Glad to hear that traveling went well! I hope you have a good trip, despite the solemn reason behind it.

>95 bell7: Thanks, Mary.

>96 MickyFine: Thanks, Laura.

>98 foggidawn: Thanks, Foggi. I think we'll have some fun around some of the more solemn things.

I've been out for a bit this week and just catching up. It looks like I missed my opportunity to send good thoughts for your travels, but I hope you do have good time with your family. I'll send good thoughts for the return trip!

>100 atozgrl: Thank you so much!

What we got up to yesterday (switching to recaps for duration of vacation as a big chunk of our days are unplanned for the next little while): The drive to my husband's home town was happily uneventful. There were varying amounts of rain for the trip but mostly on the drizzle end of the spectrum and thankfully not too much fog. Only wildlife sightings were birds, for which I'm very grateful (moose scare the heck out of me as a driver). We had lunch at a gas station near the midway point, which was pretty tasty (eggs benedict for H, turkey club with fries, dressing, and gravy for Mr. Fine, and turkey soup and a salad for me). Got to our destination around 3:30 and dropped off H at my FIL's before going up the hill to drop our stuff off at my BIL's. Walked back down to have a bit of a visit with my FIL then all of us went up to my BIL's for supper. We had smoked chicken, fries, and kale salad. Then just hung out for a while in the living room chatting and watching TV.

What I'm reading: About halfway through The Book of Life.

What I'm crafting: Started crocheting a dishcloth last night. I brought six balls of the yarn I use for dishcloths so craft updates are going to be a lot of the same thing for the next two weeks.

What we're watching: I paid attention to Jeopardy and the season finale of The Mandalorian. There were a couple other shows on in the background that got varying amounts of attention while I was chatting or reading.

>102 MickyFine: It sounds like a lovely time is being had by all. Crochet a dishcloth for me, too! *smooch*

>103 richardderus: It's been a good time so far. *smooches*

What we got up to yesterday: Slept until 7:30 and eventually made our way out of bed. Had a cup of tea while staying out of the way in the kitchen while my BIL and SIL put together turkey soup, moose soup, and chili to serve at the hall after the funeral today. Once those were on the stove, we had some toast for breakfast with partridgeberry jam (my favourite local food). Snuck in some quiet solo time reading for a bit while waiting for H and one of my nieces to wake up. Once everyone was awake, we went into town for a grocery run. Came back to the house, unloaded, and had a snacky lunch. Then went down the hill to visit my FIL and Mr. Fine's sister's family who drove in that morning. Were there for an hour and a bit and then went up to my BIL's house so H could have somewhere quiet for a web appointment. Watched a bit of TV while waiting for her. Went out for dinner afterwards at Wing'n It. I shared a basket of wings with Mr. Fine and had a bruschetta flatbread. Detoured to Tim's so my niece and H could grab tea then came back to the house. Grabbed a shower before the house was too full of people (7 people and 1.5 bathrooms makes it tricky to negotiate shower time). Mr. Fine went with some of the family to take supplies to the hall but I was peopled out and stayed behind to read and then went to sleep before he got back.

What I'm reading: Put another good chunk into The Book of Life.

What I'm crafting: A few more rows on the dishcloth.

What we're watching: One whole episode and three quarters of another of OUAT.

Our daughter moved back in with us too after splitting up with her boyfriend. It was a big change for all involved, but she has been back for a few months and so far so good. I'm wishing you luck. : ) I'm glad you arrived safely and hope you have a lovely time with family. The River Grove Wrap looks beautiful and snuggly! Hope you enjoy The Book of Life -- I did!

>106 Berly: Lovely to see you, Kim. Thanks for the well wishes on the move in front. The wrap came with me on our trip and has been very cozy.

Yesterday's adventures: We got up around 7 to have breakfast and get ready for the day. The service for my MIL included a mass (as a non-Catholic, this was an interesting experience), graveside service, and then a gathering at the local hall for lunch and catching up. I had two servings of moose soup, which was very tasty. Afterwards we spent most of the afternoon and all evening at my FIL's house. Ordered pizza for supper, which was really good The evening was pretty close to a Newfoundland kitchen party, according to my BIL. One of my MIL's friends pulled out her guitar and played a bunch of songs, while everyone hung out and chatted. It was a nice evening but all the peopling meant this introvert was overtired by the end of the night.

What I'm reading: A bit of progress made in The Book of Life between everything going on yesterday.

What I'm crafting: Lots of progress on the current dishcloth.

What we're watching: Nothing.

What, pray tell, is moose soup?

Moose was my first word as a baby, so I have a fondness for them :)

I'm glad your MIL's memorial went well. When do you head home?

>109 katiekrug: ...and how does one make it?

Non-Newfies need to know!

>109 katiekrug:, >110 richardderus: I'm sure Micky can elaborate but according to Google it's exactly what it sounds like: Traditional Newfoundland Moose Soup

>111 lauralkeet: - Oh! Well, no. None for me, thanks. Moose are among my favorite animals :)

>109 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie. The recipe Laura shared is pretty close to what we had. It's quite tasty and moose is pretty similar in consistency and taste to beef. Moose are not native to Newfoundland and have no natural predators here so moose hunting is part of how they control the population. Last year 3 of Mr. Fine's family got tickets for moose (and successfully got one each) so there's a lot of moose meat to go around.

We fly back May 4. We're in Mr. Fine's home town for the next week and then we spend a few days in St. John's (although H flies back a few days earlier as she can't get as much time off from her job).

>110 richardderus: I was not involved in the cooking process but Laura's recipe looks pretty accurate.

>111 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura!

Micky, I'm glad the recipe was legit. I didn't spend much time looking for it and thought well, this could be way off like maybe Moose Soup is actually like a dessert or something. Ha.

I didn't know moose was not native to Newfoundland. I assumed they were common (and native) across all of Canada. The things you learn around here ...

It sounds like you're having a nice family gathering.

Yesterday's adventures: Went out for breakfast with most of the family to start the day. I had French toast, which was pretty decent. Then we came back to the house so that everyone could get pretty and then headed out again for professional family photos. Once those wrapped up, Mr. Fine's sister and her family headed back to St. John's. The rest of us went out to the campground where my BIL puts his RV every summer. H had fond memories of it from her last trip here when she was young and wanted to see it as an adult. It was a pretty spot with an actual sand beach (most beaches here are rocky). Like everywhere else in Newfoundland the body of water there that I'd call a lake is a called a pond (I'm not sure I've seen a single sign that says X Lake, it's all things like Porch Pond or Triangle Pond). Afterwards we went to the pharmacy for ice cream. Then came back to the house and saw off my BIL and his wife who took their youngest daughter and her boyfriend back to St. John's. They're staying in town overnight as my SIL has some doctor appointments today. That leaves just Mr. Fine and I and one niece in the house. H and her cousin went for a Tim's run, while Mr. Fine and I went for a visit with one of his friends who came out for the funeral. Then to my FIL's for supper where we had leftover turkey and moose soup. Headed back to my BIL's house for a cup of tea and watching some TV. Ended the day with finishing a book in bed.

What I'm reading: Starting Say Yes to the Marquess today.

What I'm crafting: Nothing.

What we're watching: Some OUAT.

>114 lauralkeet: It's a not great reason to be here, but it's been nice to see so much of Mr. Fine's family.

As for moose, they were introduced to Newfoundland in 1904. I found this article from Heritage NL about it, which is pretty interesting.

Book 40



The Book of Life - Deborah Harkness

In the final book of the All Souls Trilogy, Diana and Matthew have returned to the present where they must face down the Congregation who will enforce the law banning relationships between vampires and witches. They also must finally procure the Ashmole 782 manuscript, which may hold the answers about Matthew and Diana's soon to be born twins. At the same time, one of Matthew's vampire children threatens to destroy everything they hold dear.

A really solid conclusion to the trilogy. While I remain not at all interested in Diana and Matthew's romance (Team Gallowglass!), the plot and world Harkness has created continue to be fascinating. Watching everything come together for the series' conclusion was satisfying and I really enjoyed the read.

Rating : ****

Hi, Micky! I loved the All Souls’ books! Did you know that Harkness wrote Time’s Convert as a follow-up/fourth book? It, too, is really good, focusing on the character of Marcus.

Safe (and fun) travels to you!

Karen O

>116 MickyFine: Fascinating info about the moose, thanks for sharing! You would think they would be easier to eradicate than, say, the invasive mongoose in Hawaii, but it makes sense that they haven't done so if people are so attached to the idea of having them there.

>113 MickyFine: - I hope I didn't sound judge-y about the moose! I totally understand. I'm just a sucker for them, unlike cows, pigs, fish, chickens, etc :)

Ah, you'll be there longer than I realized! I hope you continue to have a nice time.

>118 klobrien2: I noticed book 4 on the shelf at the library when I was picking up book 2. I'll probably pick it up at some point while the universe and characters are still fresh in my brain. Goodreads says there's supposed to be a fifth book at some point too but it's just a placeholder record with a title that Harkness announced on Twitter apparently.

>119 norabelle414: Happy to share!

>120 katiekrug: Definitely not judge-y! I totally get it.

Glad your trip is going well! I am also fascinated by the moose talk.

>122 curioussquared: Thanks, Natalie!

Yesterday's adventures: Mr. Fine and I lazed in bed for a bit before getting up to have a bigger breakfast. Then spent some time chilling waiting for our niece to wake up. Mr. Fine made her breakfast and then we headed down the hill around noon to wake up and pick up H. Once she was ready we drove out to St. Lawrence and did the Chamber Cove Trail, which is a beautiful walk although it was quite windy while we were there so it was on the chilly side. Had a snack in the car and watched the ocean for a bit before heading back. Stopped at the grocery store and Tim's on our way back to home base. We had supper at my FIL's, which included chicken drumsticks, mashed potatoes, mashed turnip, peas, carrots, and salad (there were also pork chops for everyone else). Then headed back to my BIL's to chill for a bit before heading to bed.

What I'm reading: Just one chapter in Say Yes to the Marquess.

What I'm crafting: Finished a dish cloth. Started a second one with a new pattern, didn't love how it looked so I frogged it, and started over with another new pattern.

What we're watching: TV was on in the background in the living room in the evening but I didn't really pay attention to it.

Yesterday's adventures: Typical slower start in the morning (we are on vacation after all). Had a light breakfast and then hung out around the house for a bit as we were timing our walk and lunch plans around avoiding the rush of kids from the nearby high school. H had her own plans with my FIL so it was just Mr. Fine and I for a chunk of the day. We did two laps of the Salt Pond trail (it's super chill and very pretty) and then went to a diner just up the road for lunch. I had a cheeseburger, fries, and pineapple Crush. Afterwards we went to our oldest niece's house to meet up with my BIL and his wife who were providing childcare for their grandkids. Mr. Fine had promised to buy the kiddos each a new toy so, after the littlest one finished waking up from a nap, plus a few rounds of hide and seek, we went to the store. Then back to house where I had some introvert time. All the family that was currently in town came for supper and we had a Jiggs dinner. Hung out with the family for a while after dinner then watched a bit of TV and read before bed.

What I'm reading: Say Yes to the Marquess is off to a solid start.

What I'm crafting: Finally got the hang of the new dishcloth pattern I'm making and it's going along nicely.

What we're watching: I put on an episode of Friends for background noise while getting ready in the morning, we watched an episode of Big Food Bucket List while killing time in the morning, and I watched an episode of Frasier while winding down in the evening.

>125 MickyFine: It should come as no surprise that I had no idea what a Jiggs Dinner was. The name is less obvious than, say, Moose Soup, so thanks for including a link. I admit to sort of skimming it but it looks complicated and time-consuming to make. Or is there a take-out version?

>125 MickyFine: Pineapple Crush! How I loved that with a pint of vanilla ice cream whirled up with crushed pineapple and a pint of whipped cream. I don't get the Crush drinks here so haven't done that in years. Your visit to newfoundland is clearly going to make excellent memories.

Who knew moose weren't native there...🤯

I also did not know what a Jiggs dinner was but I appreciate learning!

>126 lauralkeet: Jiggs is typical Sunday dinner fare around here, so it's definitely a time investment. My SIL and BIL put ours together in about 3 hours but we did roast chicken and a small beef roast rather than a turkey.

>127 richardderus: Pineapple, lime, and birch beer Crush are really only available out here. It's super rare to find them out West.

>128 curioussquared: Happy to share the knowledge!

Yesterday's adventures: Mr. Fine was up early with his dad and brother to spread gravel at his mom's grave site. Meanwhile, I spent a lazy morning in bed and didn't get up until almost 10. Once Mr. Fine got back we checked in with H, who opted not to join us on our chosen walk for the day. We went to Landing Place Pond, which was super chill. Came back to home base, confirmed my FIL had plans with friends for dinner, and then went for a visit with Mr. Fine's uncle, aunt, and cousin who live next door to his dad (both Mr. Fine's parents came from large families so there's a lot of extended family in the area). Popped out to town to get gas and stop at the drug store for H, then the three of us went for dinner at a local pub. We all had fish and chips (amazingly the first fish I've had this trip), which were delicious. Then back to the house to chill for the rest of the evening. Spent some of that time going through the photos from the family photo shoot. We're a pretty good looking bunch. 😊

What I'm reading: About halfway through Say Yes to the Marquess.

What I'm crafting: Over halfway done the current crochet dishcloth.

What I'm watching: An episode each of Frasier and OUAT.

Now I'm craving some good fish and chips.

>131 foggidawn: You're welcome. 😊

Yesterday's adventures: I was awake a little before my alarm and spent a bit of time doing internet things on my phone before getting up for a small breakfast and a shower. Then read for a while before heading down the hill to pick up H and my FIL. We drove to Grand Bank for lunch at Sharon's Nook. It's a cute restaurant that has all sorts of old/antique things on the walls (our section had records (45s, I'm pretty sure), teacups, a commemorative plate for the Newfoundland and Labrador fire services, among many other things. I had delicious mac n cheese with garlic toast and a salad. Followed it up with cheesecake, for which the restaurant is locally renowned. My chocolate salted caramel cheesecake was deadly, as they say around here. Afterwards, we took the long way home and "drove around the boot" (otherwise known as the Burin peninsula). Lots of lovely scenic views, enhanced by the sunny weather. It was clear enough you could see St. Pierre and Miquelon (I had fun waving at this small bit of France). After we got back from the drive, Mr. Fine and I went for a walk around part of the bay. Then chilled at my BIL's house before heading down to my FIL's for supper. We had moose meat in gravy over potatoes with fresh baked rolls. Hung out with my FIL for a bit before going back to my BIL's house so Mr. Fine could do some laundry. We watched some TV with our niece while waiting for the load to move through the machines. While putting some of his clothes on drying racks in the basement, Mr. Fine discovered some pictures of himself as a youngster. When I went down to look, I managed to slip and fall/slide down the stairs. No major injuries but I have a few tender spots that will probably develop bruises and strained a muscle in one arm by trying to catch on to something to slow myself. Watched a bit more TV until my BIL and SIL got home from St. John's (they had to make two trips this week for various appointments and meetings). Chatted with them a bit before heading to bed. Finished my book before turning out the light.

What I'm reading: I'll start a re-read of Wundersmith today.

What I'm crafting: Getting really close to finishing another crochet dishcloth.

What we're watching: A bit of Friends and an episode and a quarter of OUAT (I've gotten my one niece really into the show while we've been here 😆).

>133 MickyFine: Sorry to hear about your fall! I hope the after effects are minimal.

Book 41



Say Yes to the Marquess - Tessa Dare

Clio Whitmore has spent eight years waiting for her fiance, Piers Brandon, the Marquess of Granville, to return from diplomatic duties abroad so that they can finally get married. But when she inherits a beautiful castle in Kent from an uncle, Clio decides she's had enough waiting and starts to pursue her own independent life. The only catch is she needs Piers' brother, Rafe Brandon to sign papers dissolving her engagement so that she can get control of her dowry funds. Rafe is in the midst of training to return to the world of illegal bare knuckle boxing and retake his champion title but he drops everything to go to Clio's castle and try to convince her to go ahead with her marriage to Piers. The only problem is that Rafe would much rather get Clio for himself than marry her off to his brother.

A solid historical romance from Tessa Dare. Clio and Rafe have excellent chemistry and their relationship development is enjoyable to read. I really appreciated that Dare includes two neurodiverse characters in the book. Of course, Dare doesn't use modern terms but based on character descriptions, Rafe has ADHD while Clio's youngest sister is on the Autism spectrum. While it won't make a list of my favourite Tessa Dare books, it was a good reading experience.

Rating: ***1/2

>134 foggidawn: Thanks, Foggi. I've got some tender spots this morning and one of the muscles in my right arm gets mad if I flex it a certain way but I'm largely fine.

>39 MickyFine: This book looks hilarious. I recognize the character but didn't realize there was a collected version. Do libraries buy these? Ours doesn't seem to acquire comics collections, but maybe I don't know how to search for them in the catalogue.

>40 MickyFine: Sympathy on the boomerang kiddo.
Is this the normal state of affairs these days, that adult kids move home? My kids being fiercely independent has kept me out of the 'state of being' loop.

Edited to say that I was way behind on your thread and want to offer condolences re Mr. Fine's loss and sympathy for that nasty tumble down the stairs.
Also, news to me too, that moose weren't native to NFLD!

Your mac n cheese and cheesecake meal sounds drool-worthy. Yumm.

Sorry about your fall/slide and hope you don't feel too battered!

>133 MickyFine: Hiss and Boo all over the darn fall... but good thing you don't have any lasting damage.

I'm drooling over your dinner out. It's a mild gout attack day today so food only sounds good in the abstract. Enjoy your reread this weekend!

>133 MickyFine: I hope any bruising is light and fades quickly. Other than that it sounds like you had a good day.

>137 SandyAMcPherson: Some libraries do purchase these. Comic strip collections often end up in the 740s (if your library uses Dewey) so they aren't in the same section as graphic novels. Do a search for Garfield or Calvin & Hobbes and those should point you in the right direction for how your library catalogues them.

>138 SandyAMcPherson: Thanks for the condolences, Sandy.

>139 curioussquared: That lunch was SO good. I'm a little worse for wear after my fall but already feeling better today than yesterday.

>140 richardderus: Sorry to hear the gout is being nasty, friend. I hope the attack is a short one.

>141 quondame: Thanks, Susan.

Yesterday's adventures: Started off with a very lazy morning. We were pretty slow out of bed and spent most of the morning hanging out around the house. Mr. Fine made a bigger breakfast, which was delicious as usual. I did some online yarn shopping as the yarn store back home started their Local Yarn Store Day sale early. Lots of time going back and forth between patterns I want to make and the yarns they had in stock but eventually found a match and ordered a sweater quantity that I'll pick up when we're back home. Around noon we headed down the hill to check in with H and my FIL. H opted to hang out with her grandfather again so they went off to pick up lobster for Saturday night and then did some driving around. Mr. Fine and I went on our planned walk on the Winterland Eco Trail. It was on the chilly side, full of typical Newfoundland views (coniferous trees, moss and lichen, rocks, and bogs), and we had the most wildlife sightings of the whole trip. First a whisky jack (otherwise known as a gray jay) flew down and settled on the edge of the boardwalk. A little while later, a small rabbit hopped across our path. Near the end of the trail was the big excitement as there was a moose across the bog from us (Mr. Fine says 400-500 yards away). It was a bull moose (identified later by my in-laws from the picture I took) and he was intimidatingly large. I made Mr. Fine walk on the side of the boardwalk closest to the moose (because I'm a big chicken) and happily the moose stayed put the whole time. Stopped to get Mr. Fine a coffee on our way back to the house. I was feeling tired and sore from my fall so I spent a few hours relaxing in bed while Mr. Fine went to visit with his cousin. For supper we went to the local Chinese food place with a bunch of the family. H wanted to have a drink in a bar with her grandfather while she was here so after dinner, I drove them to my FIL's preferred watering hole by one of the docks. I don't drink alcohol so I just had water and enjoyed the view of the bay. I got lucky and saw a seal swimming by (it was a real wildlife filled day). Afterwards we came back to the house. Mr. Fine went to bed early with a headache and I joined him not too long after.

What I'm reading: First few chapters of Wundersmith read.

What I'm crafting: Finished my second crochet dishcloth of the trip and started my third.

What I'm watching: Half watched a few episodes of Friends while relaxing in the afternoon.

The moose!

MOOSE! So jealous...

Sounds like you are having a lovely visit, but i'm sorry about the fall. Hope the soreness passes soon.

Wow, that moose!!!

>144 MickyFine: I am glad for your un-widowed state that Bullwinkle there decided that y'all were too boring to be a threat. Big ol bastard weren't he?

>144 MickyFine: I'm sure the moose in the photo seems much farther away than in real life. I'm glad it wasn't in a jumpy mood.

>144 MickyFine: Wow, that moose! I'm glad he stayed put and didn't come over to say hello.

>145 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie. I knew the moose would excite you.

>146 curioussquared: It was ultimately very cool.

>147 richardderus: I'm very pleased the moose was not interested in us at all.

>148 quondame: Thanks, Susan.

>149 lauralkeet: I had the same reaction, Laura. 😊

Saturday's adventures: Mr. Fine and I had a big breakfast and then went to check in with H and my FIL. The wind made the water too choppy for my BIL to go diving for scallops so Mr. Fine and I went to the store to get some other food to go with the lobsters they were planning to have. Then we spent some time hanging out with my FIL. After that we met up with our oldest niece and her two little boys to go for a walk. We did a trail that went from Spanish Room to Wild Beach. The beach was really beautiful although the cold wind meant we didn't stay too long. Afterwards we went back to home base. I stayed up at my BIL's to eat my Chinese food leftovers while everyone else had their shellfish feed at my FIL's. I video chatted with my mom for a while before heading down to join everyone else for the evening.

Yesterday's adventures: Woke up at 7 to have a light breakfast, then loaded everything into the car and said goodbye to everyone. Hit the road around 9, which was our target. H had requested a stop in Swift Current to visit the antique car museum but while the website said they opened at 10, they were not open (sad trombone). After that brief stop we continued on and had lunch at the truck stop in Goobies (really good food, I must say). Made it safely to St. John's without a single moose sighting (huzzah!) and met up with my SIL who had a quilt for H made out of some of my MIL's shirts and a binder for Mr. Fine with copies of all of their mom's recipes that she could find. We then did a bit of shopping as H wanted some souvenirs and there were a couple shops Mr. Fine and I wanted to revisit since our last trip. Dropped off luggage at our Airbnb (a really cozy basement suite) and then got H checked in at her hotel. Went to Pop's Diner for supper, which is a super cute 50s- themed joint. I, of course, had a cheeseburger, fries, and a strawberry shake. Afterwards, we were all pretty knackered so we dropped off H and then settled in for the evening. I did bill stuff while watching a movie on TV and then took a shower before heading to bed.

What I'm reading: Over halfway through Wundersmith now.

What I'm crafting: Did a bit of work on dishcloth #3 on Saturday but didn't touch it yesterday.

What we're watching: Saturday night, my FIL put on a livestream of a Newfoundland kitchen band. Last night, Tremors was on TV, which my Dad loves but I'd never gotten around to watching. Gross but decent for a B horror movie.

I'll do my month-end stats eventually but I'll move the chatting over to my May thread now. See you there!

April Summary



Numbers in parentheses are for year to date.

Books read: 8 (41)
Books abandoned: 0 (2)

Fiction: 6 (37)
Non-fiction: 2 (4)

Adult: 8 (36)
YA: 0 (4)
Children's: 0 (1)

Library: 7 (29)
Mine: 1 (12)
Borrowed elsewhere: 0 (0)

Re-reads: 1 (5)

Female authors: 7 (36)
Male authors: 2 (12)
Non-binary authors: 0 (0)

Pages: 2,681 (11,679)
Hours: 15 hours 41 minutes

Average rating: 4.02

Average time to read book: 3.93 days

Favourite book(s): I think I'll give it to Oddball this month as it made me laugh the most.