Berly's 2nd Book Shelf

Hi. I'm Kim and I've been on LT since 2008. Happily married for over 30 years, I'm a mom of 3: one of them married, one engaged, and one dating, and we all live in Oregon -- lucky me! I have an eclectic work history: nerve regeneration research at Boston Children's Hospital; advertising account exec; editor and writer (Milkweed Editions and Portland Parent Magazine); MN Timberwolves Community Relation Mgr and 501C3 Account Exec; accounting, client acquisition and website development for Clarus (a water cleaning company my Husband started here in Portland); Business and HR Mgr for a Montessori school; and I am now a Dyslexia Tutor! Also, I am a fourth degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. And I am on two Advisory Councils for Literary Arts here in Portland. Books? Well, I read almost everything, although I lean towards Fiction.

2024 was rough. Both my parents died, daughter had heart surgery, I changed jobs (ya!), oh and had Covid...again. : P
2025...still rough. Dealing with estate stuff, blech. And 6 hospital visits for me. But things come in 3's so I better be done!
2026...well, February first hospital visit for pneumonia. Blech.

Here's to the rest of 2026, better health and more time on LT!! : )

Reading Now
L Heart the Lover (B 249 pages) by Lily King
L Atmosphere (B 337 pages) by Taylor Jenkins
@ Imitation Alien (K 370 pages) by Colleen Helme
@ Kids Make Me Angry (🎧 6 hrs) by Kevin Hart

Next...
July 10 -- Endling (B 338 pages) by Maria Reva

Stalled Out On...
@ Homeseeking (B 511 pages) by Karissa Chen
✔ Portland's Audacious Champion by Erika Naito-Campbell
✔ Brooklyn (B 262) by Colm Toibin
✔ The Obelisk Gate (B 410 pages) Broken Earth #2 by N.K. Jemison

Source
✔ = Off the shelf (not acquired this year)
L = Library
↩ = Reread
@ = Acquired this year
✗ = DNF
? = Need to get
IR = Indiespensable Readers
ER = LibraryThing Early Reviewer

Media
B = Printed Book
🎧 = Audio
K = Kindle
GN = Graphic Novel

Other Ideas...

LT Shared Reads
✔ January 30 -- The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
✔ February 27 -- House of Spirits by Isabel Allende
✔ April -- When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridden
✔ May 29 -- Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton
July 8th -- Endling by Maria Reva

RL Book Club #1
✔ February 10 -- Tilt by Emma Pattee
x April -- Isola by Allegra Goodman
June 9th -- Homeseeking by Karissa Chen -- reading
August -- The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
October -- The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

RL Book Club #2
✔ January 14 -- Discontent by Beatriz Serrano
✔ February 11 -- When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridden
✔ March -- So Far Gone by Jess Walter
✔ April -- Portland’s Audacious Champion by Erica Naito-Campbell
✔ May 27 -- The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow
✔ July 8 -- Culpability by Bruce Hoslinger
?? -- Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vong

Portland Literary Arts Lectures
✔ January 15 -- Colm Toibin
✔ February 12 -- Imani Perry
✔ April 23 -- Patrick Radden Keefe

Read in June ?? pages / ?? 🎧 hours
2026 Total ?? pages / 1?? 🎧 hours
57. The Summer of Lost and Found (🎧 12 hrs) by Toni Blake
56. Vanderbilt (🎧 9 hrs) by Anderson Cooper
55. The Murderous Marriage (Agatha Raisin #5) (K 228 pages) by MC Beaton
54. The Walkers of Dembley (Agatha Raisin #4) (K 182 pages) by MC Beaton
53. The Potted Gardener (Agatha Raisin #3) (K 200 pages) by MC Beaton
52. Yesteryear (🎧 3/14 hours) by Caro Claire Burke DNF
51. Buried in the Hills Sarah Cross FBI Book 2 (K 320 pages) by AJ Rivers
50. Culpability (B 341 pages) by Bruce Holsinger
49. The Nature of Hearts (B 133 pages) by Delila Olsson
48. Wellspring of Death Agatha Raisin #7 (K 212 pages) by MC Beaton

Read in April/May 4,868 pages / 61.5 🎧 hours
2026 Total 9,634 pages / 193.5 🎧 hours
47. The Wild Card (🎧 8.5 hours) by Carolyn Brown
46. Raising Hare (🎧 6.5 hours) by Chloe Dalton
45. Never Never: Part 3 (🎧 2.75 hours) by Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher
44. How the Earth Works (🎧 24.5 hours) Great Courses by Michael Wysession
43. Never Never: Part 2 (🎧 2.75 hours) by Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher
43. Never, Never (🎧 4.5 hours) by Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher
42. The Undoing of Violet Claybourne (K 395 pages) by Emily Critchley
❤️ Voiceless Child by (K 330 pages) by Ann Giganti
40. First Witches Club (🎧 12 hours) by Maisey Yates
38. Desert Devil (K 338 pages) By Colleen Helme
37. Law Maker Aristocrats of London Book 1 (K 372 pages) by Susie Tate
36. Behind These Four Walls (K 363 pages) by Yasmin Angle
35. Songbird (K 379 pages) By Colleen Helme
34. The Ten Thousand Doors of January (K 374 pages) by Alix E. Harrow
33. The Hand on the Wall Truly Devious Book 3 (K 375 pages) by Maureen Johnson
32. The Vanishing Stair Truly Devious Book 2 (K 376 pages) by Maureen Johnson
❤️ Truly Devious (B 416 pages) by Maureen Johnson
30. The Mob Boss & the Assassin (K 473 pages) by Colleen Helme, Jocelyn Drake
29. The Hitman and the Psychic (K 380 pages) by Colleen Helme, Jocelyn Drake
28. The Girl in the Lake (K 297 pages) by Lauren Oliver

Read in March 1,046 pages / 32.5 🎧 hours
2026 Total 4,766 pages / 132 🎧 hours
27. @ Angel Falls: Sand and Shadows Book 1 (K 329 pages) by Colleen Helme
26. @ Dear Debbie (🎧 7.5 hours) by Freida McFadden
25. @ As Far As She Knew (K 329 pages) by Diana Awad
24. @ Running from the Mirror (K 388 pages) by Howard Shulman
23. L Boundary Waters (🎧 11 hours) by William Kent Krueger
22. @ The Friend of the Family (🎧 14 hours)by Dean Koontz 3.0

Read in February 1,946 pages / 64 🎧 hours
2026 Total 3,720 pages / 99.5 🎧 hours
21. @ The Vicious Vet Agatha Raisin Series #2 (K 224 pages) by M.C. Beaton 3.0
20. @ The Quiche of Death Agatha Raisin Series #1 (K 276 pages) by M.C. Beaton 3.2
19. ✔ Maybe Not (K 132 pages) by Colleen Hoover 3.0
18. ✔ Noir (🎧 9 hrs) by Christopher Moore DNF
17. @ Voiceless Child (K 330 pages) by Ann Widick Giganti 4.0
16. @ Poisoned Truth (K 382 pages) by Colleen Helme 4.0
15. @ In This Altered Body (🎧 7 hrs) by Charlene Pell 3.75
❤️ @ When the Cranes Fly South (B 309 pages) by Lisa Ridzen 5.0
❤️ @ The Anxious Generation (🎧 10.5 hours) by Jonathan Haida 4.0
12. @ The Lies We Tell (K 293 pages) by Debra Webb 3.0
11. ✔ House of Spirits (🎧 19 hrs) by Isabel Allende 4.0 first time I read it, ...
10. L Copper River (🎧 10 hrs) by William Kent Krueger 4.5
9. @ So Far Gone (🎧 8.5 hrs) by Jess Walter 3.8

Read in January 1,774 pages / 35.5 🎧 hours
2026 Total 1,774 pages / 35.5 🎧 hours
8. @ Maybe Someday (K 448 pages) by Colleen Hoover 4.0
7. @ The Greater Good (🎧 9.5 hours) by Tim Tigner 3.5
6. ✔ What She Saw (K 347 pages) by Mary Burton 3.0
5. @ Anima Rising (🎧 12 hours) by Christopher Moore 3.0
❤️ ✔ The Fifth Season (K 473 pages) by N.K. Jemisin 4.5
3. @ Discontent (K 192 pages) by Beatriz Serrano 2.5
2. ✔ Reliquary (🎧 14 hours) by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child 3.0
1. ✔ Closer Than You Know (Vera Boyett Book 2) (K 314 pages) by Debra Webb 3.5

❤️ Favorite of the Month

I am going to try and keep track of series I am currently enjoying here:

Series/Author/Next Book
A Royal Spyness Mystery // Rhys Bowen // #2 A Royal Pain
Agatha Raisin Series // M.C. Beaton // #3
Bobiverse / Dennis E. Taylor / #6 ??
Bridgerton / Julia Quinn / #3 An Offer From A Gentleman
Commisario Brunetti by Donna Leon / read 1,2,4,8 next #3 The Anonymous Venetian
Cormoran Strike Series / Robert Galbraith / #8 ??
Elizabeth Cage / Jodi Taylor #4 ???
Finley O'Sullivan / Debra Webb #3 All the Little Truths
In Death Series / JD Robb / Naked in Death #1 (I have been reading out of order)
Kinsey Millhone Mystery Series / Sue Grafton / Read ABCDEFGJQX / Next H
Kopp Series / Amy Stewart / #2 Lady Cop Makes Trouble
Mickey Bolitar / Harlen Coben / #4 not yet published
Murderbot Diaries / Martha Wells / #5 Fugitive Telemetry
Quantum Earth / Dennis E. Taylor / #3 ??
Sandham Murders / Viveca Sten / #11 not yet published
Shelby Nichols / Colleen Helme / #20 ??
Sunshine Vicram / Darynda Jones / #4 ??
Sweep Series / Ilona Andrews / #6 not yet published
The Åre Murders / Viveca Sten / #2 Hidden in Shadows Dec '23
The Chronicles of St Mary's / Jodi Taylor / #7
The Christmas Tree Farm Mysteries / Jacqueline Frost / #4
The Time Police / Jodi Taylor #5 ???, Santa Grit 4.5
The Thursday Murder Club / Richard Osman / #3 The Bullet That Missed
Walt Longmire / Craig Johnson / Junkyard Dogs

Favorites from 2025!!
❤️ A Good Girl's Guide To Murder (B 389 pages) by Holly Jackson 4.25
❤️ Bits and Pieces (🎧 7 hours) by Whoopi Goldberg 4.0
❤️ How to Read A Book (B 280 pages) by Monica Wood 4.5
❤️ The Gift of Aging (B 270 pages) by Mary Houle/Elizabeth Eckstrom 4.5
❤️ When Women Were Dragons (B 367) by Kelly Barnhill 4.5
❤️ True Grit (B 235 pages) by Charles Portis 4.0
❤️ Cher: The Memoir Part One (🎧 16 hours) by Cher 4.0
❤️ One Day Everyone Will Have Been Against This (B 187 pages) by Omar El Akkad 4.5

❤️❤️ And I binge read the entire Shelby Nichols series by Colleen Helme!!

And my New books...!
Read 16/24
24. Imitation Alien (K 370 pages) by Colleen Helme *
23. Kids Make Me Angry (🎧 6 hrs) by Kevin Hart *
22. Endling (B 338 pages) by Maria Reva
21. The Return by Nicholas Sparks
20. The Opposite of Fate by Amy Tan
19. Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri

Life is busy, I stopped keeping track for a bit...
✔ Running from the Mirror by Howard Shulman
✔ Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden
✔ As Far As She Knew by Diana Awad
✔ The Vicious Vet Agatha Raisin Series #2 by M.C. Beaton *
✔ The Quiche of Death Agatha Raisin Series #1 by M.C. Beaton *
✔ The Friend of the Family by Dean Koontz *
✔ Voiceless Child by Ann Widick Giganti *
✔ Poisoned Truth by Colleen Helme *
✔ In This Altered Body by Charlene Pell
✔ When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen
✔ The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haida
✔ The Lies We Tell by Debra Webb
✔ So Far Gone by Jess Walter
5) Anima Rising by Christopher Moore
✔ When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen *
3) The Broken Earth Trilogy Books 1-3 by N.K. Jemison *
✔ Discontent by Beatriz Serrano
1) Brightly Shining by Ingvild Rishoi (Thank you TwinB!) *

* Free/Gift
✔ Read

Come on in!!

Happy new thread, Kimmers!

Happy new one Kim!! Hope starting new thread means you're feeling better.

>8 Berly: Hi Paul! Thanks for the quick hello. : )

>9 PaulCranswick: Hi Reba! Nope. It means I have pneumonia and I'm stuck in bed! LOL. But no fever so I am hoping I am over the worst of it. Might just be a long recovery to 100%.

Happy Monday, Kimmers. Happy New Thread. I like that soothing topper.

>11 Berly: pneumonia?? Will you stop this already?

Chicken soup. For what ails you. Have some and get well soon!!!!!!

Oh, and happy new thread, ;-)

Happy new thread, Kim!

Wouldn’t it be great if March’s lion takes all this year’s problems out with it and leaves the rest of the year boring enough for the lambs to fatten nicely?

>11 Berly: I don't think I know anyone so much and so often in the wars health wise than you dear lady. Take care of yourself.

Happy new thread!

>12 msf59: Thanks, Mark! I was looking for books and something green for March, maybe a little outdoors and that picture checked all the boxes!

>13 ffortsa: LOL. Yes, ma'am!! : )

>14 jessibud2: Oooh! Yum!! Perfect -- thank you so much.

Happy new thread! I hope you feel better soon 🤒

>15 quondame: You know what? That sounds like an excellent plan. I could use some time to twiddle my thumbs and be a little bored. Although I do not personally want to fatten at all! Just the lambs. ; )

>16 PaulCranswick: Yes, well. I do have more than one or two health issues, so they just keep taking turns popping up. You know I do my best to keep going despite them. And sometimes I might push myself a little harder than I should. Oops. : )

>17 figsfromthistle: Thanks! Hi there!

>18 Berly: Totally took it easy today and I am feeling a little better. Same plan for tomorrow. : )

Okay, so read in February 1,946 pages / 64 🎧 hours

21. @ The Vicious Vet Agatha Raisin Series #2 (K 224 pages) by M.C. Beaton 3.0
20. @ The Quiche of Death Agatha Raisin Series #1 (K 276 pages) by M.C. Beaton 3.2
Just started this murder mystery series. Short, quick, fun reads. The protagonist is a quirky lady who is a hoot to read about. She lacks some basic social skills and always gets herself into trouble.
19. ✔ Maybe Not (K 132 pages) by Colleen Hoover 3.0
✗ ✔ Noir (🎧 9 hrs) by Christopher Moore DNF
I love Christopher Moore, but I just could not get into this one and it was my second try. I was listening on audio and the narrators accent totally annoyed me. Maybe I'll try a print version and a new Moore book next time...
17. @ Voiceless Child (K 330 pages) by Ann Widick Giganti 4.0
This one is about an abandoned child with medical issues who winds up being adopted by a nurse and her husband. Interesting and uplifting. Family bonds, sticking up for those we love.
16. @ Poisoned Truth (K 382 pages) by Colleen Helme 4.0
The latest in the series with the mind-reading Shelby Nichols investigating. Binge-read this series last year. Love it!
15. @ In This Altered Body (🎧 7 hrs) by Charlene Pell 3.75
Another medical memoir, this time about a woman who suffers severe burns over 2/3 of her body and how she fights her way back to life and tries to positively impact those around her.
❤️ @ When the Cranes Fly South (B 309 pages) by Lisa Ridzen 5.0
Favorite of the month!! An elderly man realizes he may not have a lot of time left and he wants to fix some of the relationships in his life. Lots of dog love in this one, too. Compassionate with a sense of humor. Really touched me -- I bawled. Bookclub really enjoyed this one, too.
❤️13. @ The Anxious Generation (🎧 10.5 hours) by Jonathan Haidt 4.5
This looks at the impact of i-Phones on our kids thinking, well-being and social relationships. Powerful and scary.
12. @ The Lies We Tell (K 293 pages) by Debra Webb 3.0
11. ✔ House of Spirits (🎧 19 hrs) by Isabel Allende 4.0
First time I read it; this time 3.0 ...
10. L Copper River (🎧 10 hrs) by William Kent Krueger 4.5
Another really good detective series, this one set in MN, part Irish part Native-American.
9. @ So Far Gone (🎧 8.5 hrs) by Jess Walter 3.8

Source
✔ = Off the shelf (not acquired this year)
L = Library
↩ = Reread
@ = Acquired this year
✗ = DNF

Media
B = Printed Book
🎧 = Audio
K = Kindle
GN = Graphic Novel

>22 Berly: Not too shabby.

>8 Berly: Good job! :)

Happy new one. Get well!

Happy new thread, Kim! I hope you are feeling better soon.

Happy New Thread, Kim! You are in for a treat with a lot of your planned reads, I think. I am currently reading When the Cranes Fly South and while a somber novel, it is very good.

Happy newish thread Kim! Wishing you good health.

>1 Berly: is a beautiful place to imagine myself reading: although maybe with an airbed or some kind of glamping option!

Happy new thread!

>22 Berly: Good job!!

Hope you're feeling better.

Whoa! Lots of great reading! Hope you are feeling better.

Happy new thread!

>23 BLBera: Thanks, Beth.

>24 Familyhistorian: Two weeks is enough already don't you think? : )

>25 vancouverdeb: Glad to hear you think the TBR list is gonna be good! Yes, When The Cranes Fly South is a sad one, as is end of life, but I thought it was so worth it. Hope you continue to enjoy it.

>26 charl08: I would probably not refuse some glamping, LOL. Nice to see you here.

>27 foggidawn: Thanks!! New thread, new book -- Today I started The Obelisk Gate, book 2 in the Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin.

>28 RebaRelishesReading: >29 banjo123: Thanks Reba!! There has to be some advantage to being stuck in bed, right? Time to read books!! LOL.

>30 drneutron: Thanks, Doc!! I am slowly catching up on my friends here on LT. Nice to be back. : )

I swear every time I come to your thread you are recovering from some serious ailment! This time pneumonia? Yikes! I am glad that you are in bed though, and being delivered treats and have the time and inclination for reading and LTing :) :)

Rest up!

>34 LovingLit: But, see, I am at least RECOVERING!! : ) The Prednisone is finally taking effect. My asthma is starting to behave and, of course, that means I am wide awake in the middle of the night. Gotta love side-effects. LOL. What I am most pissed about is that this last episode has lasted long enough that I have totally lost all my TKD fitness. Gonna have to start slowly from scratch. Again. Grrr.

Nice to see you!!

Hi Kim! Happy Wednesday and happy new thread.

From your last thread: I’ve read The Fifth Season and also have the next two on my shelves. Belated Happy Birthday, and sorry about your being sick.

>33 Berly: Downtime reason bad, downtime for books good.

>35 Berly: Glad to see you're recovering, Kim. Pneumonia is so insidious, and wears you down. I really admire your determination to start over from scratch with your fitness program. It's so easy to "fall off the wagon" when there's a set-back.

>37 laytonwoman3rd: This.

Have you ever considered giving a TED talk on resilience @berly ?!!

Happy new thread, Kim!

>36 karenmarie: Hi Karen! So I am about 100 pages into The Obelisk Gate and I am enjoying it. : ) Thanks for the belated birthday wishes - always appreciated. I actually made it to work today to tutor two kiddos. I have four tomorrow, which may be a stretch, but at least I can chill out again after that.

>37 laytonwoman3rd: I've put way tooooo much into TKD to slack off at this point. I am just going to have to not push it and take it slow, but everyone there knows me and supports me -- they are so much fun! And being in good shape when I have one of my issues is better than being out of shape, so gotta keep going.

>38 charl08: LOL! What a nice thing to say. Thank you, C. : )

>39 Ravenwoodwitch: Hi Raven!

Happy new thread, Kim! I hate that you are going through more health problems but very glad that you are recovering. Good for you, working back to getting in shape. That's not easy. But you are right, being in good shape is an advantage when you do have an issue with your health. Just remember not to push yourself too hard.

I am glad that you are recovering some, Kim. I bet your students are happy to have you back!

>42 atozgrl: Hi Irene! Thanks for the kind words. : ) Luckily I already had an appointment set up with my primary care for tomorrow, so we'll see what input she has. And I'm not going back to TKD...yet. LOL.

>43 banjo123: Hey Rhonda! It was so nice to see my students!! I saw two yesterday and three today (one cancelled due to him being sick now--there's a lot of crud going around!). I only have one more tomorrow and then I can chill for the weekend. Should be on the mend.

I'm glad you are recovering , Kim. Glad you were able to see your students - or some of them.

>44 Berly: Good to hear that you are recovering. Fingers crossed.

Good to see you are on the road to recovery and thinking about how to get back to TKD. It really does help to be in good shape when illness strikes, less of a chore to get back after.

>45 vancouverdeb: Full schedule today at work, but I bailed on being photographer for TKD belt testing. Trying to ramp back up slowly. : )

>46 BLBera: Today was good. Did nothing but my students today. Had leftovers for dinner. Nice and easy!!

>47 Familyhistorian: I'm probably gonna slack for another week before I head back to TKD. Maybe do some at-home exercises first and see how my lungs fair. But I'll get back in the dojang for sure!

Glad you're feeling better and plotting your return to the dojang! Enjoy and stay well.

>48 Berly: Easy is good.

Hi Kim my dear, Happy New Thread dear lady, hope all is well with you and the family. Sending love and hugs from both of us to you and the family, dear friend.

A belated Happy New Thread, Kim and I hope you wil be fully recovered soon.

Happy Monday, TwinK! I hope you are well.

To all my friends who celebrate Easter!! Or even just chocolate bunnies!!

>55 Berly: Definitely chocolate bunnies.

>55 Berly: Happy Easter, Kim and family.

>55 Berly: Same to you Kim :). Enjoy!!

>55 Berly: Same, TwinK. I think we talk later this week?

Nice to talk today. Let's keep in touch about June.

Hi Kim! I hope you are well. I hear the weather isn't bad there. 😊 We are still dropping below freezing now and then.

Hope all is well, Kimmers!

Wishing you a weekend and health, books and relaxation.

I hope you are continuing to do well, Kim. Have you been able to get back to TKD?

Kimmers!

Missing you around these parts.

Hope you're well, Kim. Miss seeing you but know you're busy. Check in when you can, though, please.

I am just getting caught up and it looks like you have been busy! Hope all is well.

I hope all is well with you and that you are getting some down time this weekend.

Hi Kim!! Here I am, on LT! Visiting your thread! xo

I hope the doc can give you a different antibiotic and that you are all better SOON! And I can't wait to see you in July! Yay!

Feel better soon TwinK!

Sending good thoughts and good wishes

Book Update -- I haven't even had time to enter my books until today!!

Read in April/May 4,868 pages / 61.5 🎧 hours
2026 Total 9,634 pages / 193.5 🎧 hours
47. The Wild Card (🎧 8.5 hours) by Carolyn Brown
46. Raising Hare (🎧 6.5 hours) by Chloe Dalton
45. Never Never: Part 3 (🎧 2.75 hours) by Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher
44. How the Earth Works (🎧 24.5 hours) Great Courses by Michael Wysession
43. Never Never: Part 2 (🎧 2.75 hours) by Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher
43. Never, Never (🎧 4.5 hours) by Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher
42. The Undoing of Violet Claybourne (K 395 pages) by Emily Critchley
❤️ Voiceless Child by (K 330 pages) by Ann Giganti
40. First Witches Club (🎧 12 hours) by Maisey Yates
38. Desert Devil (K 338 pages) By Colleen Helme
37. Law Maker Aristocrats of London Book 1 (K 372 pages) by Susie Tate
36. Behind These Four Walls (K 363 pages) by Yasmin Angle
35. Songbird (K 379 pages) By Colleen Helme
34. The Ten Thousand Doors of January (K 374 pages) by Alix E. Harrow
33. The Hand on the Wall Truly Devious Book 3 (K 375 pages) by Maureen Johnson
32. The Vanishing Stair Truly Devious Book 2 (K 376 pages) by Maureen Johnson
❤️ Truly Devious (B 416 pages) by Maureen Johnson
30. The Mob Boss & the Assassin (K 473 pages) by Colleen Helme, Jocelyn Drake
29. The Hitman and the Psychic (K 380 pages) by Colleen Helme, Jocelyn Drake
28. The Girl in the Lake (K 297 pages) by Lauren Oliver

What else. Let's see. I am alive(!) but a little overbooked...

-- The past two months, I've gone through training for Barton Dyslexia Books 6 & 7.
-- Gotten certified in Level 1,2 & 3 (Which involved submitting 6 videos of me tutoring and then an 8 hour day of Zoom, again demonstrating my tutoring techniques -- I passed!)
-- Still doing TKD myself AND being the photographer and Social Media person. Need to cut back on the volunteer stuff a bit.
-- Still on 2 committees for Literary Arts. Not giving this up.
-- Hopefully on the last big thing settling my parents estate: legal issues and the state of FL is somewhat difficult to deal with.
-- House being fixed up -- two of our bathrooms are being retiled (my daughter has been using our bathroom for months since hers got flooded when our septic system backed up during a January freeze). And we are also fixing up and repainting the outside of the house. They found some rot and that has to be replaced too.
-- Also dealing with health issues -- mine and my FIL's.

Getting a handle on things...

-- I quit as the VP of my Amherst College local chapter. Just gonna attend events from now on instead of planning them. : )
-- I currently have 9 dyslexia students, which is a little more than I like. On the plus side, one is leaving in two weeks, so that should be a bit more manageable. On the down side, he has a genius IQ and it has been really fun working with him -- I'm gonna miss him.

❤️❤️ Still hoping things calm down enough that I can back here more. Thanks to everyone keeping my thread warm. I miss all of you and being here. xoxo

Oh, and also....



Beth (BLBera) is coming out to Portland in July. Time for a meetup!! : )

https://www.librarything.com/topic/384682

Wow, you do a lot of work—impressive!
Welcome back, Kim.
I like the idea of In-person meetings, that will be great.

Good to see you here, Kim. I hope the health issues are manageable and under control soon.

I don't foresee things calming down for you; you don't know how to say no. ❤️

Pleased to see you popping up on threads, Kim. Wishing you well in finding the right balance for you in that busy, busy schedule.

>72 Berly: Goodness Gracious -- you are one very busy lady!! Glad you'll have time for the meet-up though -- will be great to see you.

>74 SirThomas: Hi Sir T! I don't know if it's impressive or insane. LOL. Right now, it's a bit much for me. But look! I'm here two days in a row!!

>75 laytonwoman3rd: Thanks! Antibiotics are kicking in, so starting to feel better. I don't think I've found your thread yet this year...

>76 BLBera: Ummm...you know me too well. I'm practicing though: no...No...NOOOO! : )

>77 MickyFine: Hi Micky! Thanks for noticing me, LOL. Not sure I can really catch up again. Mostly I am trying to just jump back in.

>78 RebaRelishesReading: I'm really looking forward to our meetup -- it's been ages!! Should be fun to catch up and, of course, look at books. : )

A little after the fact, but I had the best Mother's Day. My kids took me out for coffee and bought me plants for the garden and my daughter got me a book, Truly Devious. I liked the book so much I already read the next two! Still have one plant to get in the dirt. : )

>81 Berly: Great photo. I'm glad you had a good day. I had dinner with my daughter, who gifted me with a pile of mending. :)

Hi Kim! I'd say more, but I'm exhausted after reading everything you've been up to! :P

>82 BLBera: LOL. It's supposed to go the other way around on Mother's Day!!

>83 Ape: Stephen!!! OMG! I haven't seen you around these parts in ages. Off to find your thread.

I figured you were busy, Kim. Good to see that you've made some time for LT - a site that gives back! From you post about all the things you've been up to it looks like you have been paring back your activities a tad maybe a tad more would give you more wiggle room.

>85 Familyhistorian: Meg--Paring back a little more would definitely help! After my last training on Barton Level 7 tomorrow morning, I should have less going on at work and someone even offered to be the photographer at TKD this Monday and Tuesday--I said YES!! : )

>71 Berly: That is one impressive list of books read, especially given how busy you've been (>72 Berly: ). You do have a lot going on! Congratulations on the certification and good luck with the renovations. I hope your health issues clear up soon.

We're glad to see you back here again!

>81 Berly: what a nice pic! Looks like a lovely Mother's day shared with her kids.. I love the wrapping on your gift with some extras thrown in!

Two days in a row!! Lovely!! Enjoyed the photo and looking forward to the meet-up

>87 atozgrl: Thanks, Irene!! I had some tests this morning so maybe that will help determine what is going on. : )

Also, I was bad good and bought 3 books today!! See below...

>88 Carmenere: Right? I loved the stickers and book magnet and night light as much as the book! So thoughtful.

>89 RebaRelishesReading: Yay me! I hope it's a new trend...and definitely excited about the meetup. ; )

Just bought new books for upcoming bookclubs and group reads.

June 9 -- Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
June 24-- Culpability by Bruce Hoslinger
July 10 -- Endling by Maria Reva

Nice to see you popping in, Kim!

It's good to see you back, Kim!

>91 Berly: Nice haul, TwinK!

Great to see you back, KIm!

>92 katiekrug: >93 kidzdoc: >94 BLBera: >95 vancouverdeb: Thanks everyone!! I am definitely enjoying it back here. : )

Okay, current health struggle:

On antibiotics for a UTI infection, which has helped the bathroom problem, but I also have really bad pain in the lower left abdominal area and the antibiotics have not helped that at all. I had a CT which came back clear for any fluid buildup (good news) and I had an xray (no result yet) and blood work (which also looks good so far). So no clue. Unless it's yet another GI problem? Video appt to talk to my regular Dr on Thursday and hopefully all test results will be back in so we can discuss them. In the meantime, I am taking pain meds when I need them and not doing TKD or anything else besides work. That's also why I am in bed and having LT time (which I am loving!). So, that's my status today.

Checklist stuff:

Still working on estate stuff for my parents, who both passed in 2024. On the plus side, heard back from the lawyers and we made progress!! Judge okayed a disbursement. Now I just have to set up a Trust and mail the judgment to the insurance company so they can send the money there. Progress.

Oh, and this Day #3 in row I've been here. : )

Congrats on 3 in a row. It will be nice to finish with the estate stuff. It's been two years already since your parents passed? Wow! It doesn't seem that long.

I hope you feel better soon.

>96 Berly: - Kim, just this week, I finished with the estate stuff from my mum (who also passed in 2024). I hope to close out the estate account at the bank this week. Unbelievable how long it all takes, right!!!! I'm sure you will sleep easier once it's all done.

Good to see you back and posting. Hope the medical stuff clears up soon, too!

Hi Kim! I’m impressed with how you juggle family, obligations, and books.

>55 Berly: Easter is a candy holiday. 😊

>91 Berly: I have Culpability on my Kindle. I’ve tagged it ‘2026 toberead’. Will that happen? Who knows?

>96 Berly: I’m sorry about the abdominal problem and not knowing what’s causing it. I hope you get answers soon.

Bed and LT and reading – all good things.

I hope that you're feeling better today, Kim.

Hello Kim my dear, three days in a row on here, don't get giddy with this, lol. Looking back over the last year or two, we both seem to have gone through some difficulties with our health and then you had the added loss of parents.

Despite all that has happened, we both seem to be able to come through after a spell away, i hope things can get sorted for you my dear, i will be contacting my surgeons secretary to find out what is happening. This so called urgent operation in September is dragging on, being told i would be looking at June or July when i rang in January, is not looking too good either. My balance is getting worse and as the day wears on, my body just slows down because of the pain and is getting annoying as everything i am losing, i will not get back.

Oh well, at least i have Karen, the kids and Elliott, just wish we could see Hannah, and of course THE BOOKS.

Sending love and hugs to you, Walt and the family from both of us, my very dear friend.

>99 jessibud2: Hi TwinB. Yeah, two years since my mom passed and 1 1/2 for my dad. I can't believe it's been that long already. And sometimes I just can't believe that they are gone at all. Sigh.

It will be nice to finish up all the legal stuff. The one I am working on is pretty much the last thing. I hope.

The pain was a little better today--thank goodness!

>100 karenmarie: Hi Karen! Great to see you. Yes, Easter is definitely a candy thing at my house. I like my chocolate eggs and jelly beans. LOL.

"Culpability: The degree of one's blameworthiness in the commission of a crime or offence." Hmmmm...I think you should pick up your Culpability book and we can read it together!! By the end of June. I feel no guilt whatsoever. : )

Talking to my Dr. tomorrow -- we'll see what's up.

And I am currently, as I type, in bed on LT!!!

>101 kidzdoc: Thanks Darryl. The pain was slightly less today, so that's a win, but it is not gone. Don't know if it's still from the UTI, maybe my left ureter? Or if it's GI in nature and the timing is coincidental. I have a fair amount of scar tissue in that area from previous surgeries. Talk with my Dr. is tomorrow. Also, when I said on your thread you didn't have to worry about being my doctor, please know that I think you are totally knowledgeable and I would be honored to have someone like you as my Dr., but you have enough going on yourself and I want you to be able to enjoy your time on LT. Hope that makes sense. I'll keep you posted and you can root for me and I'll root for you. Deal? : )

>102 johnsimpson: Hello John! I am sorry you are also going through medical stuff. The downside of aging. I hope they get you in soon for the surgery, but what do you mean everything you are losing you will not get back? Can't you do PT afterwards? Maybe I don't understand the full extent of what you are going through. PM me if you want. Hang in there and say Hi to Karen for me. And enjoy the kids and grandkids. Hugs.

On the book side of things, I started yet another Agatha Raising mystery by M.C. Beaton. I am reading them somewhat out of order. I just finished #7 and now I am on #4. The Walkers of Dembley Light, fun read.



And on audio, I am listening to My Husband's Wife by Alice Feeney. The plot is crazy already. Two storylines and I'm not sure how they will intersect. In one, the wife leaves for a run before her big art reveal scheduled for that night, but when she gets back to her house her key doesn't work. And a woman opens the door to her house and asks what she wants....eating this one up!!

Keeping up and wishing you well, Kimmers!

Hi Paul!! Pleasure to see as always. : )

I just watched Remarkably Bright Creatures with Sally Fields as the cleaning lady in the aquarium and it was just as good as the book. Cried at the end. Loved it!

Sending my best, Kim, especially re the pain and the appointment. I would love to discuss Endling with a group - such a fascinating book, with so much in it.

>105 Berly: Sounds good, Kim. I can't help but think what the root cause of your pain is, though; I may be retired but my sense of curiosity about medical mysteries remains strong. A KUB (kidneys, ureter and bladder) CT scan picks up all but a tiny number of renal stones, but if it hasn't been done already a urinalysis with microscopy would be useful to look for red and white blood cells, and crystals from stones. Evaluation by a gastroenterologist may be beneficial. Another test to consider would be a pelvic ultrasound, to look for abnormalities in the reproductive system and/or endometriosis. Scar tissue can definitely cause intermittent or persistent abdominal pain, and if no other cause for your symptoms is found an exploratory laparoscopy would be a consideration, although hopefully that won't be necessary. If I think of anything else I'll let you know, but I wanted to share my thoughts with you, as they may be useful to mention to your PCP. Good luck today, and I hope that you're feeling better.

Up late again, I see. I hope the pain is better. And how many days in a row on LT???

>106 Berly:, Hi Kim my dear, the longer i am waiting for surgery to put a cage and a metal plate around my Spinal Column, the more the nerves are being damaged. I was told that the surgery will stop the condition getting any worse but the damage cannot be repaired and so i will still have balance issues, my walking is compromised as my big toes are floppy and so even with footwear on, i am prone to stumbling which can and has led to falls and bladder and bowel issues. Luckily having a MRI on my Prostate showed that i haven't got Cancer but the Prostate has strangled the tube from my bladder which led to urine backing up into my Kidneys. I am going to have laser surgery to cut a channel across my Prostate to relieve the pressure and i will be able to urinate properly but this could be in early 2027 at the earliest, i have a Catheter and my bowel is the best it has been for over two years. At least the potential bladder and bowel issues has not been affected permanently.

I still have to be careful to avoid a hard or heavy fall on my right hand side as if i had a severe fall it could potentially lead to Paralysis, also the symptoms of Cervical Spine Stenosis are very close to the symptoms of Motor Neurone Disease, which is worrying and i have been getting calls to ask if i have pain in my shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands and fingers as if so, this needs checking out pretty quickly. I have noticed some pain in both my shoulders but i had surgery on my left shoulder and have had intermittent pain over the years since. I will discuss this with the surgeons secretary when i contact her on Monday to find out what is going on and how long i may have to wait.

Good to see you are still on LT, Kim. I hope your appointment with the doctor provided some answers and a plan going forward.

>111 charl08: Ooh so glad you like Endling! That's a good sign, since I like your taste. ; ) And thanks for the good wishes.

>112 kidzdoc: LOL. Of course the Dr. in you is still intrigued. So, rest of blood lab work came back normal. Second bladder test today and the UTI is clear. Also submitted stool sample to check for blood -- no word yet on that. Interesting that the pain on my left side is moving around a little bit which leads me think it is not an ulcer. Next step is to get an ultrasound (just as you predicted) and I have to schedule that. In person with my Dr. on Monday so she can assess in person. After that a scope is likely...

Off to check up on you!!

>113 BLBera: 5 days in a row on LT!! Whoohoo! I'm back!

Not quite as bad, but pain is still present. See more technical update above with kidzdoc.

>114 johnsimpson: Dang. Your stuff sounds way more serious than mine, not that we have to have a pain competition. I really hope they get you in soon, VERY soon. I can't believe you are having to wait months and months for these surgical remedies. xoxo

>115 Familyhistorian: Thanks -- still collecting data. Got a refill on my pain meds today, thank goodness. : )

Started Homeseeking and I am enjoying it! Two separate timelines with the same characters. One in their childhood and the other when they re-meet as elders...

>114 johnsimpson: I'm so sorry to hear about what you're going through, John. To me, and probably the rest of us, the delay in the surgical procedures you need is unfathomable, and unconscionable. Is there another surgery group you could see to get a second opinion, or are you locked in to the one you're currently seeing?

>116 Berly: I hope that these tests can get to the bottom of your symptoms, Kim. I agree, the migratory nature of your pain would make a gastric or duodenal ulcer unlikely. When I mentioned evaluation by a gastroenterologist I was thinking of stool studies, and if that wasn't revealing colonoscopy and possibly an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) could be useful. I still wonder about abdominal adhesions, which are scars that typically result from previous surgeries. I think they can cause migratory pain, especially if they wrap about the intestines and move as they contract during digestion. I'll continue to keep you in my prayers!

>117 Berly: John mentions what he is now trying for government help on his thread.
No one has been able to understand this or help more from a distance.

Wow, I'm really sorry that you're going through such pain. I hope your doctors give you an answer real soon.
>107 Berly: The Walkers of Wembley is one of my favorite Agathas so far. I need to jump back in.

Good to see you on LT so many days in a row. I hope your health issues are solved soon, Kim. Sorry you are in so much pain. I'm glad you are getting some reading in.

>119 kidzdoc: D--Stool studies were clear! On hold until Monday. : )

>120 m.belljackson: MB--So frustrating!! I will go check up on him agian...

>121 mstrust: J--Thanks! I am really enjoying reading about Agatha again. : ) Just the kind of read I need right now. Light and amusing.

>122 vancouverdeb: Than you Deb. Being on LT always lightens my mood, so I am glad to be back. This last year and a half has been too much. Glad it is getting back to a more manageable level. Now if I can just get the pain to go away!!

Hubby picked up bagels and Starbucks for me. We finished taping all the tile and molding in the upstairs bathroom. Now I am taking a quick LT/rest break and then my mission for today, besides reading(!), is take my pain meds and then paint the upstairs bathroom. Hubby gets the upper parts and I get to sit down on the floor and do the lower stuff. LOL.

167 into Homeseeking and I have to finish it for RL bookclub by Tuesday. 321 pages to go!!

>123 Berly: Good news, although the cause for your pain is still unclear.

>125 kidzdoc: I know. Patience is a virtue. I also know that it doesn't sound like I could be in much pain, doing all these home chores, but I have had over 40 surgeries and "procedures" in my life, not to mention 7 documented fractures from a congenital bone cyst in upper left humorous, and if I don't push through, then I don't get to do much. So...onward!! : )

>123 Berly: I'm glad you're back too and also glad that it's giving you pleasure!! Hope you get the current source of pain discovered and dealt with soon.

>126 Berly: Wow. You've been through a lot, Kim! You remind me of some of my former patients, particularly my "favorite patient" who I first met nearly 20 years ago when she was hospitalized with a case of Salmonella gastroenteritis. She was born with spina bifida and has had dozens of surgeries since she was born. We tightly bonded during the first hospitalization I saw her on the General Pediatrics service, and her mother asked if we could be friends on Facebook, which I agreed to even though I technically shouldn't have. We're still very close, and as part of her network of family and friends she and her parents post regular updates on how she's doing, and I routinely pray for her, especially during her hospitalizations that require surgical management. I have several cute pictures of her and me that her mother took and shared with me, including on my Facebook thread, but I don't share them with anyone because of patient privacy concerns and to avoid any HIPAA violations.

You've also been in my prayers this week.

>127 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks Reba. I really missed all my LT friends, so it feels wonderful to be back here. And the pain does seem to be getting slightly better, so I'll take that as a win. But I do hope they figure it out so I don't have to go through this again. : )

>128 kidzdoc: Aw, that's so sweet. And I know you have been respectful of HIPAA and patient confidentiality, but they reached out to you and I am sure your continued presence over the years has meant a lot. : )

We got two walls done and then my Hubby got diverted by the sink faucets, which leak, so he dismantled them and I went and took a nap. Made a trip to Home Depot later on to get parts.

Tonight we're watching another book/movie -- 11.22.63 by Stephen King. Actually it's a series -- no surprise since it is a looooong book! I read it so long ago, I only remember bits and pieces. I like the actors they chose -- so far so good.

Over 40 surgeries and procedures, Kim, that is a lot. I hope you are enjoying your current read.

>116 Berly: I was going to ask about the medical profession's blind spot, prior surgeries' adhesions, but I see >119 kidzdoc: did that. It's interesting living among the elderly and infirm because stuff I'd've never considered is now a first thought.

I hope you're getting steadily better, and the doctors decide to tart looking left and right for answers not just straight ahead. xo

Happy Sunday, Kimmers. Finally stumbling my way over here. I am so sorry to hear about your continuing health issues. I sure hope you can finally catch a break and enjoy some pain-relief. I also hope those books are offering some well-needed comfort and distraction. 🙏🙏

We also really enjoyed the Remarkably Bright adaptation. Curious what your final thoughts will be on 11/22/63

Hi Kim! Happy Sunday to you.

>104 Berly: I just ‘found’ Culpability on my Kindle and opened it so that it shows up when I switch back to ‘Most Recent’. I just might start it… I’d love to have a Kim-Karen read.

>110 Berly: I really liked the movie, still liked the book more. I also shed a tear. Or two.

>123 Berly: The detective work/elimination of problems is awful, isn’t it? I’m sorry you’re going through this.

>124 Berly: *whimper* Bagels and Starbucks…

>126 Berly: Oh my. You definitely have my admiration as you soldier on.

>130 Berly: Oh. I did not realize 11.22.63 was made into a series. I loved the book. I gave it 4.5 stars. Looks like the series is on Netflix. We’re subscribers, so score!

Just reading back over the health issues, Kim, and adding only that I love that Kidzdoc is *here* for you (and for others). What a nice community.

>110 Berly: I agree that they did a terrific job with the film of Remarkably Bright Creatures. Sally Field was the perfect actor for the role.

>131 vancouverdeb: Yeah. I've lost count. LOL. I'm about a third into Homeseeking. I don't think I am going to finish it by tomorrow night, but I would like to finish it. Need to find a new audio book....

>132 richardderus: The pain seems to be isolated to the left side, but it is pretty widespread (non-specific), so hard to come up with a likely cause. Yes, adhesions is one of the things I am wondering about too. Dr. today wants to do another MRI with contrast. I can't do iodine -- major allergic reaction -- but she has suggested another contrast. A little nervous about it...

>133 msf59: Books are always my great escape!! Still reading on Kindle an Agatha Raisin mystery by M.C. Beaton -- fun and light. Bookclub tomorrow night Homeseeking and I need a new audio...Looks like you had a fantastic trip!! : )

>134 msf59: We have watched two episodes and liking 11/22/63 so far.

>135 karenmarie: Karen--I'd love to read Culpability with you! I have to read it by 6/24/26, so I'm probably starting it after bookclub tomorrow night. Too soon? Read it when you can and then we can talk about it.

Agreed. I liked Remarkably Bright Creatures a lot, too, book a little better than movie, but I really enjoyed Sally Field in the movie. ; )

I have self-diagnosed a few of my medical problems, but I always had them confirmed by LEGIT medical people; but I am at a loss on this one and so is my Dr. so far. We'll keep investigating. Good news is my tests are coming back that I am a very healthy person!! LOL

Come out here and I'll treat you to bagels and Starbucks anytime. : )

I do my best. I don't want to miss out on life!!

Score on 11.22.63!!

Thanks for catching up. You are always so thorough too. xoxo

>136 LovingLit: Aren't we all so lucky to be here and feel the love, not just for books, but for who we are as individuals. I appreciate you!!

>137 EBT1002: Exactly!! I really enjoyed it again and I loved the voice they used for the octopus. What a great omniscient character.

>138 Berly: When I was having the MRI after the recent TIAs, it was down to not being able to tolerate the iodine. They would've preferred the CT scan but the contrast that's not iodine wasn't available for several days so MRI it was. I asked about the difference between the contrasts out of curiosity, and was told something about barium in place of iodine but retained little other than that.

I hope All goes well when it occurs and answers are forthcoming.

>138 Berly: I'm sorry that you're still in pain and that your tests have been unrevealing so far, Kim. Will this second MRI be done with double contrast (IV + oral) or only single contrast (IV)? From what I remembered, which I confirmed with a quick Google search, double contrast provides greater evaluation of the intraabdominal organs, including strictures that would be consistent with abdominal adhesions. When I was working in the hospital and had a difficult case such as yours I would typically talk to the radiologist who was reading MR scans that day, tell her what symptoms my patient was having, the relevant test results, and what my differential diagnosis was, so that I could order the most appropriate study; alternatively the radiologist may call me to discuss the patient, and my order.

I'm just a pediatrician, though, so I would take anything I say with a hefty portion of salt.

>140 Berly: I hope you and/or your doctor figure it out soon (and know what to do to fix it)!!

Adding my crossed fingers to the pile, Kim. Hoping for relief (and answers) soon.

I hope you're feeling better, TwinK.

Stopping in and I see that you've been gone for mostly not-great reasons. I'm sorry to hear that and I'm adding my thoughts to everyone else's, hoping that someone can figure out what is going on, and soon.

>138 Berly: Good luck on the MRI! I see why that makes you uncomfortable

>81 Berly: Sounds like a wonderful Mother's Day!

>91 Berly: All of those books have wonderful covers.

>96 Berly: Sorry to hear about your health struggles. Hope the doctor's are able to figure out the exact cause.

Sending my best for your health, Kim.

I wondered how the planning for the next literature festival was going. They (you) get such amazing guests.

Swinging by to say hello and give you a virtual hug.

How are you doing health wise, Kim? I continue to pray for you on a daily basis.

Hi everyone! So, good news was I had no allergic rxn to the MRI contrast. (Darryl--it was only IV, not coupled with oral, which prob would have been better. Salt not needed -- LOL.) And also good news, they found nothing. Bad news. They found nothing. So still no clue.

On my own I started taking some probiotics (after the antibiotics I've been on), quit taking Ensure daily (because I often react to things eaten on a frequent basis -- was on a rotation diet as a youngster and couldn't have leftovers the next day), and I have been massaging the affected area. This has led to a significant reduction in pain. Or it was just a nice coincidence. No idea, but I'll take it. Trying to schedule another appt. with a GI specialist.

The pain reduced enough that I was able to finish painting our upstairs bathroom and put it back together. Win!!

And today I started my summer tutoring schedule, switching to mornings when the kiddos are less burned out and learning is easier. : )

Started Culpability -- "A compelling narrative about the perils of the digital age while addressing the challenge of living as a family." Liking it so far!

Heatwave. Blech.

Love you all!

>153 Berly: Take care, Kim. I hope the probiotics help. I am glad the pain has decreased.

>153 Berly: I'm glad that your pain has significantly improved, and that the MRI didn't show anything of concern, Kim.

Hooray for the pain reduction, Kimmers. May that continue...Me and my daughter really enjoyed Culpability. Have a good time with it.

>153 Berly: Good news. Take care of yourself. I want you in shape to party when I'm there! :)

Glad you're feeling better. It would be nice if MRI scans could show muscle spasms. It sounds good that your self-massage is helping.

Hi Kim my dear, glad to read that you are feeling better dear friend, sending love and hugs from both of us, dear friend.

Glad that you are feeling a bit better---sounds like persistence paid off.

>153 Berly: Frustrating that they didn't find anything but nice that you've found a way to reduce the pain, Kim. Best of luck with your summer tutoring schedule!

Glad to hear things are going better but too bad there's still no "outcome". I can imagine that's very frustrating.

Hi Kim! I finally made it over to your thread and I'm sorry to see you've not been having a great time. I notice that you've been reading the Agatha Raisin series; I have been 'reading' them as audio books using the BBC dramatised series with Penelope Keith as Agatha. They're a lot of fun (as in laugh out loud funny) but I suspect from reviews of the written books that they're adapted and abridged.

>48 Berly: Today was good. Did nothing but my students today. Had leftovers for dinner. Nice and easy!!
Hmm - I see why you like your students ;0)

To All My LT Buddies Who Qualify!! LOL. Hope you are having lots of fun. xoxo

I have been away from LT as I haven't been opening my laptop. I am sorry to hear about your pain and hoping they can find some reason. At least you can read...

You are very busy. I have been trying to reduce my own outside commitments but there are weeks when I seem to be out every day.

>164 Berly: Father's Day was a good one here, Kimmers, as Hani treated me to a lovely meal and all three of the tribe called me.

Hope you are feeling much better. xx

Sending smoochings out west from underneath that *insert grawlix here* heatwave y'all Westerners so generously shipped out East to us. Ever so grateful. No, really. Honest.

*grumble*

Okay...updated reading list:

Readin Now
L Heart the Lover (B 249 pages) by Lily King
L Atmosphere (B 337 pages) by Taylor Jenkins
@ Imitation Alien (K 370 pages) by Colleen Helme
@ Kids Make Me Angry (🎧 6 hrs) by Kevin Hart

Next...
July 10 -- Endling (B 338 pages) by Maria Reva

And I just visited my friend who is a librarian nearby, and they have this bookstore where people donate their books and they resell them CHEAP (as a fundraiser)!! I got these three hardbacks for $6!!

The Return by Nicholas Sparks
The Opposite of Fate by Amy Tan
Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri

>168 Berly: Hey TwinK! Endling is coming up for me as well. :) And I will see you soon.

‘Morning, Kim! Happy Tuesday to you. Happy last day of June to you.

I did it! I am happy to announce that I finished Culpability early this morning.

It’s staggering. I’m going to write a real book report about it as opposed to a Lightning Round entry.

Thank you for inspiring me to read it.

>168 Berly: >169 BLBera: Chiming in to say I thought Endling was terrific. Hope you both enjoy it!

>168 Berly: I like to go to the Hillsboro library book sale, which they hold twice a year - always some good bargains. The Beaverton City Library has a permanent bookstore across the street.

Hi, Kim! Stopping by trying to catch up a little. So sorry you've been in pain . . . and all the medical issues you've had over the course of your life are just staggering!

Best wishes that you'll be feeling fine and have a break from health problems.

Just delurking to say 'Hi' Kim. (I'm afraid I can't see your picture in >174 Berly:)

>168 Berly: I like the idea of a library that accepts books to sell as a fundraiser especially as the books are cheap.

I hope you are having a fun 4th weekend. I will see you soon. I am making a book wishlist. :) And bringing a big suitcase.

Hope you had a good weekend.

Hi, Kimmers! I hope you had a wonderful and healthy holiday weekend. We miss you. ❤️