Lynda's (aka Carmenere's) Book Nook - 2nd half Nook

#32

Women Talking
Miriam Toews
2019
4/5

A group of Mennonite women in Bolivia join forces to make a decision as to what their action should be when it's been brought to light they have been drugged and raped, some as young as 3 years old, by men of their colony. Peters, the leader of the colony, will not allow outsiders to help the women. They take matters into their own hands but are torn by their religious beliefs and the safety of the daughters.
With a somewhat outcast male member as secretary of the meeting, whose minutes make up a huge portion of the book, the women hem and haw over their choices. Their options are 1. Do nothing, 2. Stay and fight or 3. Leave. During their sometimes heated discussions the reader discovers the women of this colony are illiterate, have no electricity, are valuable only to produce children, cook and work the fields. Everything they know and believe has come from their fathers and husbands.
They ultimately come to a decision but at times the story reminds one of Animal Farm with their manifesto, revolution and songs. The difference here is, although childlike to a fault, they have what chickens, cows and pigs do not and that's what fuels their decision with, hopefully, long lasting results.
The blurb from the back dust jacket says, this book "is an imagined response to these real events"

Happy new thread!

Thanks, Jim!

Happy new thread, Lynda.
(((hugs)))

Happy new one!

>1 Carmenere: That was a good read. I enjoyed it as well.

Thanks, Anita!
And (((thanks)))

Thanks fft!

I thought it a good read but played with my emotions. From upset. angry, sad, joyous. I guess that's how one gets invested in a good book.

Happy New Thread, Lynda. Nice to see you start a new one. I hope those books are treating you fine.

Happy new thread, Lynda and welcome back. Your friends have missed you so. ((((((Hugs)))))

Thanks, Mark. The books and I have been keeping 6 feet apart but seems like now is the right time to get reacquainted

Thanks, Paul! I have been lurking but so nice to converse with my LT buddies again. (((Thanks)))

Hi Lynda, it's great to see you back! Hope your summer is good and your family is keeping safe.

Welcome back!

>12 DeltaQueen50: Hi Judy and thanks! It's been a bittersweet summer. At first we were content in "stay at home, save lives" mode. In May, my husband passed away suddenly from what we later learned was undiagnosed lymphoma. He showed absolutely no signs of such an illness. Wasn't losing weight, appetite was good just had a few days of breathing issues which brought him to ER. That's why, for awhile, I couldn't even look at a book. Maybe if I didn't read so much I would have noticed something. So now, I resolve to read only when no one else is around to give my full attention to those nearby.
In June, my mom passed. Diabetic kidney issues. She was a fighter but after years of issues her frail body couldn't recover.
Fortunately, Will graduated from college in early May and both my husband and mom watched it happen, streamed from an empty stadium with only college dignitaries and our son beside us in our living room. Also, we've adopted two rescue kitty's. What a welcome addition to the household. Crazy, crazy year.

>13 thornton37814: Thanks, Lori!!

>14 Carmenere: oh. How sadness can pile up.

Happy New Thread, Lynda. (((Hugs)))

>15 ffortsa: Indeed. Yet, we've got to look at what is good and brings happiness.

>16 vancouverdeb: Thanks!!! Hugs gratefully accepted
🤗

Lynda - I am so sorry to hear about your losses. What a hard time you have been having.

Hi Beth, Thank you! I'm not going to lie, it's been a very hard time but I've got to say RL friends have been wonderful, the families in our development have been so caring and my mindfulness group has virtually embraced me, going way beyond what was necessary. My sister-in-law, Bill's sister, has taken Will and I under her wing like a mother hen. Foremost, Will! We've been receiving and giving strength to each other. Carrying on like we know Bill and my mom would want us to.
There are no options, it is what it is and it's up to us how were going to react to our losses.
It's nice to be back on LT and as fall and winter looms and it's harder to meet friends outdoors I'm sure to hang out here more often.

Bingeing Selling Sunset on Netflix and getting some great decorating ideas.......hehehe
It is a wee bit sickening just how much wealth exists in the LA area especially knowing so many are homeless.

So sorry to read of your loss of your partner and your mum, and glad to hear that you have had such good support through such a difficult time.

>20 Carmenere: I've not seen this one, but have been enjoying a series on fancy hotels 'around the world 'Amazing hotels'. One Swiss one had its own bookshop and multiple libraries (as well as amazing views). How the other half live!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08l2m2x/episodes/guide

>21 charl08: Thanks, Charlotte! It's been nice having a little bubble of friends and family we can see regularly during Covid Chaos.

Thanks for the link to Amazing Hotels. Bad news, BBC won't allow me to view it since I'm not in the UK. Good news, I found it showing on an App called IMDb. I'm going to enjoy viewing these hotels and far away lands. Peaked at Singapore episode but I'll go back to it after I finish season 3 of Selling Sunset.

Happy new one, Lynda. Sending gentle hugs. 😘💖

Happy new one Lynda. So sorry for your loss. I'm glad you found such good people around you.

It's great to hear that you have some support, Lynda. Take care.

Happy Saturday, Lynda. I hope those books are treating you fine. I am having a great time with Blacktop Wasteland. Terrific crime fiction. Just sayin'...

I’m so glad to see you posting again, Lynda. You have been in my thoughts and prayers over the past few months. I’m glad you and Will have had the support of loving people as you learn how to go on with your lives.

I have a Miriam Toews book hiding on my kindle. One of these days...

Wishing you a restful weekend, Lynda. xx

>23 Ameise1: Thank you, Barbara! I enjoyed the pictures you posted on facebook. What a lovely holiday!

>24 EllaTim: Thank you, EllaTim! If it's one thing I've learned, from this pandemic, and had often took for granted, is the importance of human contact. So even though friends and family are near, we restrained from hugging. When this is past us, there's going to be one massive group hug.

Yes, Beth! Thank goodness for support.

Hey Mark, Happy Sunday! So is this your final week at the PO? I've heard good things about Blacktop Wasteland and I'll certainly put it on my list. Thanks, for your take on it.

Hi Donna! So good to "see" you! I've found it very therapeutic to work in the yard, pulling out old yucky plants and planting new. And yes, the people around us have been incredible.

Hahaha, Yeah, I know what you mean, I have lots of books in the One of these days pile.

Thank you, Paul! Although your weekend has passed, I wish you a gentle week ahead.

Lynda, I am very sorry to learn about the loss of both your husband and your mom. My condolences. {{{Hugs}}} Glad to learn that you have a wonderful support network.

Thank you, Lori. It’s days like today (rainy and gloomy) that are the toughest. Lots of time to think. Your {{{Hugs}}} are uplifting. I needed them today.

Here’s a recent picture of Lev (the yellow tabby) and his sister, Melia.

Happy newish thread, Lynda.

I'm sorry to hear about your losses. Such a hard one two punch and in an already surreal time. Take care of yourselves.

Hey Meg and thanks!
Yes, one two punch, for sure. I still think about calling my mom at the end of every day to see how things are with her and tell her what's going on in my life.
Bill's another story. My memories are hard enough to cope with but also so much we had planned to do. Sometimes, I feel that I've lost my compass.

In other better news, my favorite independent bookstore is having their first book buy back since February. I've purged a look in the past 6 months and looking forward to store credit. What's the use of keeping books I no longer have the desire to read.

I'd lost you for a long time, Lynda, but now I've found you again.
I'm so so sorry to read of your losses. I can't imagine. But I'm so glad that you have Will and your friends around you. And us here at LT.

Hi Jennifer! So good to "see" you. Friends and Bill's sister have been incredible. What a stupid time to go through the grieving process! Covid chaos prohibits seeing loved ones while they're deathly ill, hugs from family and friends are prohibited at funerals that only allow 20 people..... or, can you believe, drive by funerals, WTF.
Will's back in college but since everything is online, he's free to come home whenever. Still, his buddies are there and it's good for him, too, to be surrounded by support from his friends. We Skype almost daily :0)
Hope Mike and your mom are doing well.
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I'm listening to Untamed, a book recommended to me by a good friend. The author talks about a lot of stuff but this morning I listened to her section on grief and how it's sometimes necessary to cocoon for a period of time and emerge as the person you will be going forward. One needs to breakdown before one can build up. I don't now, we'll see.

Will and I are reading The Idiot, he for a class he's taking, me because I like Dostoevsky and because we Skype to discuss it, gives me a reason to look 1/2 way decent.

Also reading, A is for Alibi. so far, so good

I've also gone back to cross stitch projects I've been working on for years and I'm waiting for our new library, to open in the fall, to post job openings. I'd even volunteer if that's all they have.

Hope you're all well.

I'm glad Will can come home whenever he likes, and that you can Skype with him. I know it's exceptionally hard to have a funeral right now. Some of the rules just seem dumb. I say, "Go to hell, 2020."
But it's so good to have you here again.

<42 Good to be back! I hope to begin visiting a bit more.

I’m thinking I’ll take my cross stitch to my developments beach today. Almost impossible to work on inside with two very active kitties running around. Seems like pulling out my supplies is just as enticing to them as the sound of a can being opened.

Speaking of kittens, does anyone have a sure fire way of clipping nails. Bill and I did it together for our previous cats but doing it solo poses a problem. Help! The vet does it for $23 a kitten but I certainly don’t want to get into that habit.

#33 Untamed
Glennon Doyle
****

Great book! Glennon’s memoir tells her story about living the life one is supposed to, expected to; Husband, family, career etc etc. It is when she meets her soulmate, Abby that she realizes she’s lived her life as a tamed animal, instructed to jump through hoops, yet inside her natural instincts kick in and she is free to live a life untamed.
Ms. Doyle doesn’t only discuss her bisexuality and it’s implications but many emotional circumstances which affect all kinds of humans.
The thing that I question is how many people we’re hurt for her to find her true self. It’s a delicate balance and one wonders just how much should be suppressed. What to I know, I know nothing. Everybody has to choose what is right for them. Just a thought.
I listened to the audio version but yearned to grab a book and hilight this, that or the other thing. A hard copy is definitely on my “To buy” list.

Great to see you posting, Lynda. I've heard lots of good things about Untamed. It's on my list. I also got out unfinished embroidery projects this summer and ended by mostly sewing clothes for Scout's Barbies. Scout likes the fancy stuff, so lots of tulle and lace, which is kind of a pain to work with. Still, we had fun.

Hey, Beth! I hope you enjoy Untamed when you get to it. I think it has some nice little nuggets in it.
Awe, homemade Barbie clothes! That’s really special and will probably be passed on to the next gen of Barbie lovers.

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Completed Part 1 of The Idiot. What an explosive conclusion. Hope the excitement continues.

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A tree crew took down 9 dead or dying trees in our yard. I asked that 4 of the tree stumps be ground up for mulch. So not much time for reading. When I do want to relax I return to cross stitch. One bib finished and another 1/4 done.
The crews are returning today with a crane to take down two larger trees that are hanging over garage and house.
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Morning, Lynda!
That's a big job! Sounds like you'll have plenty of firewood for the winter though.

Hey Jennifer!
I would've had enough for 2 years if the owner had remembered I asked for firewood. It's on the estimate. He's getting married this weekend, maybe his thoughts were elsewhere. He forgot. So today I showed the guys the estimate and they obliged. Still I have enough for this winter.
The guy they sent up to the top of the trees, dangling from a crane told me later it was an easy job and he actually enjoyed it. Different strokes - I was nauseous just watching him.

Oh Lynda, my deepest condolences. You have had such a difficult time recently. I have been AWOL from the social side of LT myself but am trying to catch up. This has just been the worst year!

Hi Judy, good to see you! Thank you. It’s been a bitter sweet year. Nonetheless, Will and I are carrying on as best we can. Bill and my mom would have it no other way. Still, it’s those solitary times when it’s incredibly difficult. COVID and distancing makes it all the worse.
I’m glad to see you posting again.
Yes, 2020 is a crappy year, for sure.

Stopping by and I see you continue to be busy. I can understand how you find cross stitch relaxing. I have been working on a rather large cross stitch project off and on over the past three years. I pulled it out again this summer, when I discovered how wonderful it was to work on it in the shade during the bright summer days.

Hi Lori, oh, yes, working on sewing projects outdoors has become one of my favorite things to do this summer. I also cross stitch in the laundry room when weather calls for it where it’s also safe from little kitty paws. Yesterday I got together with my SIL and her SIL who helped refresh my knitting skills.

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I started reading The Silent Patient for our neighborhood book swap. Intriguing right from the start.
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Need to pick up my plates for my new Equinox lease and then finish up pulling out pachysandra in order to plant grass where the trees used to be. It’s been quite a job but the weather has been gorgeous and the work is so close to the street I’ve been able to see and socially distance socialize with many neighbors as they walk past.

Hang in there, Lynda. 2020 has been a BAD year. I can't imagine having to cope with grief while staying alone at home -- as so many people have had to do. Hooray for cross stitch and kittens!

Hey Beth! There are a lot of bad things about 2020, I certainly agree. Yet, if anything, 2020 has taught me so much. The importance of human contact and our dependence on each other. Masks have forced me to look at a person's eyes and see the depths of their emotion. I've learned how we're all interconnected simply because of our mist! Which makes me ponder, why can't positivity and love be passed on so easily and be just as contagious. And of course, I appreciate the blessings I have and hold them closer and tighter. It's way too easy to let the mind take control and dig a deep hole for me. But, no, I am in control and I'm not going to fall for that. 2020 can help me become a better person. This is how I cope. (sorry for the sappy moment)

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The Silent Patient is reminding me of Shutter Island. Has anyone else felt that similarity? I'm suspicious of the narrator.

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Well, I picked up my license plate, as Ohio has gone to only the rear plate, as my salesman took me to the cashier he bumped into a weirdly displayed all weather car mat. It reminded me to ask him how I can get those because I forgot to take them out of my old Equinox. He was stunned, he said someone had brought those mats to his office so he was hoping the owner would call about them. So he grabbed them from his office and put them in my new Equinox then proceeded to put on my plate. I'm now ready for snow and slush! Happy dance!

TIOLI October: Can I make my first sweeplette? Will see, Challenge #12 still needs added and if it's created by Paul Stadler, it will, no doubt, be a doozy.

Challenge #7: Read a book by an author you've read since March 15, 2020
And Then There Were None (read Murder on the Orient Express in May, 2020 - Agatha Christie - Carmenere

Challenge #8: Read a book whose title contains a Halloween Costume
The Silent Patient - Alex Michaelides - Carmenere

Challenge #9: Read a book where the word "air" appears in the title
The Family Upstairs - Lisa Jewell - Carmenere

Challenge #10: Read a non-fiction book about the natural world or built environment
Castles of Europe - Hans-Joachim Mrusek - Carmenere

Challenge #11: Read a book in which a word in the title best describes 2020 for you
Warped Passages: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Universe's Hidden Dimensions - Lisa Randall - Carmenere

After enthusiastically and proudly exercising my right to vote since 1980, last night confirmed:

I will not vote in 2020

"2020 can help me become a better person. This is how I cope." I do not find that sappy at all. Good attitude, my friend.

Happy Wednesday, Lynda. I hope your fine city survived that circus-like debate. Retirement has been a perfect fit for me. I can't believe it has been a month all ready. I know some people miss the work routine. I have never given it a second thought. The winter might be more of a challenge, since I can't get out to bird as much.

Hey Mark! I think Cleveland survived the circus-like debate just fine. The Indians/Yankees debacle is another story.
Oh, time will fly my friend. And when the first major blizzard has Chicagoan's slipping and sliding to work, you'll be nice and cozy in your easy chair surrounded by your books.

#34 The Silent Patient
2019
323 pages
3/5

I was so looking forward to this book. 'There's a twist at the end', I was told. What started out as promising ended up being a thinly veiled murder mystery with little of the attributes I would consider an engrossing, thrilling, whodunit read. Engaging, sympathetic characters and atmospheric effects were non existent. The story left me cold and disappointed.

Next up will probably and should be a NetGalley I needed to review a few months ago, The Family Upstairs.

Happy Sunday! I love October....the days have been stunning!

Will's coming home this coming weekend and will probably stay a week or two. My heart is so happy.
Kitties are well, energetic and mischievous.
Today, I'm attending a local outdoor & masked craft fair with a good friend. The weather should be outstanding for this.

My neighbors are awesome, generous and caring. I blew the leaves myself for the first time and the equipment was a little difficult to start but neighbors got me going. I'll know what to do next time.

The grass I planted a couple of weeks ago, where three trees were taken down, is growing!!

For the past two weekends, I've been participating in the Social Distancing Readathon. It's really helping me get back into the reading groove. Participation is low but maybe it will pick up when the time and weather change. I'm more that half way through The Family Upstairs.

Another good friend, who works at our local library, will keep me abreast of any job openings. Hopefully, when our new branch opens and covid subsides they will need additional employees.

On Netflix, I highly recommend After Life with Ricky Gervais. Just what I need right now.

>62 Carmenere: I hope you will find the job you are seeking. So many places have hiring freezes, but a new branch sounds like an opportunity for employees who were laid off or new job seekers.

>63 thornton37814: That is what I'm hoping, Lori! My friend told me 2 shelfers have left since March so it seems promising.

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The craft fair yesterday was lovely! So good to be outdoors enjoying the colors of autumn in a delightful vineyard. So, I do not need nik naks but I do purchases food and beverage :0) That said, I purchased 3 bottles of wine and local honey, also a t-shirt and snowflake earrings.

I finished NetGalley of The Family Upstairs review is forthcoming but first some work around the house.
Next up, Then There Were None

>62 Carmenere: I'm glad to hear things are going so well, and especially that Will's visiting. And hooray for bottles of wine and honey! Especially wine!
Mike and I love "After Life" and pounced on it as soon as the second season was released.

>64 Carmenere: - Craft Fair!!! Oh, I so miss the local craft fairs. I am like you. I don't need nik naks. I partake for the food offerings. Well done on your purchases! I haven't been to a craft fair since this whole pandemic thing happened. Some of my favorite craft fairs (lead up to Christmas is the big craft fair season) have already announced that they will be virtual/online this year. I understand why, but it does take away from the festive shopping experience. Kind of sad but, I will continue to support my favorite (and new) local vendors any way I can.

>65 mstrust: Hey Jennifer, my friend who's British and in the know, tells me there will be a third season of "After Life".

>66 lkernagh: I felt somewhat normal again, Lori. Everyone was wearing masks and doing their best to social distance. I would not have gone had it been indoors and even I was second guessing myself attending this one. Still, I know I'll be cooped up for 5 or 6 months indoors so I had to live a little.
Yes! We must support our local vendors, they're struggling.

I did a little Prime shopping at 3am this morning, not because I wanted to, I just wake up. I bought a couple of Christmas presents and was tempted to purchase those new insulated wine glasses. I took it out of my cart though when I remembered just how many wine glasses I own, insulated or not, I just don't need more. Think minimalism!

#35
The Family Upstairs
Lisa Jewell
2019
3.5/5

Lisa Jewell is quite the prolific author, these days, writing a new book almost every year for the past 20 years. This novel however was my first dip into Jewell's bibliography.
The Family Upstairs published in 2019 is one of her newest books which I have had the good fortune to read this past week.
Story begins in a rather confusing fashion, characters are introduced and scattered in two countries but the reader doesn't know, at this time, their connection. Well, the somewhat cryptic connection is something about a baby turning 25. What baby Whose baby? And why does it matter?
Well, you'll eventually find out what transpired 25 years ago in this well written, twisty and creepy family saga. It's a fast read and the short chapters entice the reader to continue and discover how these characters meld together. An uninhabited old house, cult-like behavior and questionable characters fuel the story until all threads are tied up.at the conclusion.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of The Family Upstairs in exchange for my review

I hope you're enjoying your time with Will, Lynda. I've never read Jewell either. It sounds like a page turner.

>69 BLBera: Will’s coming home this weekend, Beth. Couple more days to go.
I hope you give Jewell a shot. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

>67 Carmenere: Good to hear there will be another season! It's such an unusual plot and it seems like it'd be good for many more seasons.

Lynda--So sorry about the loss of your loved ones. I lost my MIL recently, but you have lost two, one being your partner. This year sucks. I am glad Will is coming home soon -- I know that will lift your spirits, although it seems you have been doing a great job on your own, too. (The craft fair sounds like fun!) And I am a fan of Untamed.

>71 mstrust: unfortunately, I speak from experience when I say the writers of the show have really captured the grief one feels when their spouse passes away.

>72 Berly: Thanks, Kim. I have a great support system. I’d curl up in my cocoon if not for friends and family whose feelings I don’t want to hurt by saying “no” to their invitations. I’m so grateful, otherwise it’s not healthy.
It’ll be soooo nice to spend some quality time with Will, for sure.

——— —
I signed up for 30 days of Amazon Prime. I didn’t buy much, a couple of Christmas presents, snacks and kitty treat but the best part is Amazon video!!!!!
I’m on the 5th episode of Marvelous Miss Maisel and I’m loving it!!!

Tonight, as the temps, leaves and rain are falling, I’ll be reading And Then There We’re None make hot chocolate and flip back and forth for the Town Halls.

And Then There Were None
Agatha Christie
1939
4/5

Many a review has been written about this Agatha Christie classic so there's really not much more I can add and of course the title says all you need to know.
A group of 10 people have been summoned, under varied pretexts, to a house on Soldier's Island not far from the shores of Devon England.
One by one, they are found murdered according to a children's counting rhyme written by Frank Green in 1869.
Knowing there is no one else on the island but the ten of them the story becomes a psychological thriller as each suspects the other.
Big, deserted and isolated house, a violent storm and suspect house guests make this one a page turner to the very end.

Hi Lynda, I am a big fan of "After Life" in fact, anything Ricky Gervais does I usually love. And Then There Were None is my favorite Agatha Christie, I think it is her masterpiece. Enjoy your son's visit.

Hi Judy! I really haven’t seen Gervais in much although I know he was instrumental in The Office. I’ll have to search for more of him.
ATTWN! Especially perfect on dreary days and rainy evenings.
Indeed, I am enjoying Will’s visit to the utmost :)

Hi Lynda

I'm stopping by to say I am thinking of you, and sending love.

>75 DeltaQueen50: You are a better judge than me on this subject, dear Guru, but my enduring favourite Agatha Christie remains The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.

Another fan of Ricky Gervais. After Life alternates between humour and sadness in near equal parts and is compelling viewing.

>78 PaulCranswick: That's an excellent one as well, Paul. Of course some of hers are better than others but I am of the firm belief that you really can't go wrong with Agatha Christie!

Sweet Thursday, Lynda. Just checking in with my pal. I hope you are doing well. I am sure enjoying this surprising stretch of mild weather. B.A.G.

I also hope those books are treating you fine.

I'm dropping in too to wish you a good weekend! Are the trees beautiful right now?

Lynda, thinking of you and hoping you are coping just fine. xx

Lynda, you are in my thoughts as you go through the grieving process. I think cross-stitch work would be a good way to engage your mind and hands as you work on your projects. That is so funny about the kittens getting excited about the threads. That definitely makes it more of a challenge. I think I’ll look into finishing some of my abandoned cross-stitch attempts this winter when I can’t get out as much.

I have been wondering about Lisa Jewel’s books. There are many of them available as audio books on Hoopla. I hope they’re not too complicated to listen to.

So glad Will is with you for awhile. Are you two still reading The Idiot? What a fun idea, and now you can have your book chats in person.

>77 Whisper1: Hi Linda! I think of you often too. Between what we're going through and this godawful pandemic, all I can say is, we are stronger than we realize.

>78 PaulCranswick: Yes, Paul, it is compelling TV. The writers are really spot on when they address grief.

>78 PaulCranswick: >79 DeltaQueen50: I've not read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd but I'll add it to 2021 TBR

>80 msf59: Hey Mark! What glorious weather! I'm on my deck right now typing on my laptop. November! I can't believe it, although I know the weather will change shortly, I'm soaking up all the vitamin D I can get! Hope you are well my friend.

>81 mstrust: Hi Jennifer, the trees are beyond their beautiful stage but I've got to say the colors this year have been outstanding!
It's a beautiful 74 degrees. If only it could last till January :0)

>82 PaulCranswick: Hi Paul! I think I'm coping pretty well but ole grief rises when I least expect it. Sometimes it feels like being a little sail boat adrift on the ocean and not sure of the direction home.

>83 Donna828: Hi Donna! My sister in law and I get together to catch up on our projects. That's when the kitties are put in the guest room for a couple of hours so we can work uninterrupted.
Will's no back at school till Thanksgiving. I gave up on The Idiot. The first part was fine but then I lost interest. Will enjoyed it more than I.
From the only Lisa Jewell book I read, I would believe that her other books are not too taxing and may work pretty well on audio.
Let me know how it goes if you give it a try.

Kennedy’s Last Days
Bill O’Reilly
2013
318 pages
4.5/5

Although this book seems to have been written for middle school aged young adults I still found it very insightful, even learning a few things about the Kennedy era and possibly re-learning a few facts about him and the circumstances surrounding his assassination that I’ve forgotten.
Great pictures, interesting asides about the 60’s, the Kennedy family and key historical figures of the day offer a lot of fodder to inspire readers to dig deeper. Kennedy’s inaugural address is included in it’s entirety and, perhaps, will inspire those who are unfamiliar with it.

Morning, Lynda!
Glad you're having some great weather. So are we, with today getting to 74, but in a few days we'll soar back to 89.
Adding my encouragement to read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. A few years ago I was actively reading Christie in order of publication. I think I got to the 30's before taking a break, so that leaves me with, oh, 20 books to go. Something like that.

Morning, Lynda! Our weather is just gross right now - very humid. It's like walking through soup.

I also encourage you to read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd - one of her better ones, IMO.

Hoping Thursday is kind to you.

>86 mstrust: Hey Jennifer! My reading goals for the new year are taking shape and more Christie will certainly be a part of it.
Our beautiful fall days have come to an end and 5 months of considerable cloudiness has begun. Believe it or not it’s lake effect clouds. If you drive two hours south to Columbus it’s miraculously sunny. The blame rests on Lake Erie.
Hope your temps return to the 70’s soon.

>87 Crazymamie: Howdy Mamie! Eeeeewe to gross weather! Soup walks begone!!!
2021 will have me reading Ackroyd for sure!
Thursday was fine! Actually walked in to a grocery store to personally select my turkey. Curbside pick up is a dream but not for the important stuff.

Morning, Lynda. Happy Friday. I am sure getting used to this retirement thing. B.A.G. Despite the chill, I am heading out on a bird ramble. Hope all is well there.

>90 msf59: Happy TGIF, Mark! Oh, retirement is sweet! I'm glad you're enjoying it and spending quality time with your feathered friends.

Hi Lynda. I hope you are staying well.

Afternoon, Lynda! Happy Saturday.

>92 BLBera: Hi Beth! A huge wind storm blew thru mid-day Sunday taking my electricity with it. My wonderful neighbors shared their generator with me through an extension cord which afforded me hot water in my kettle and perishables in my fridge/freezer were safe. The kitties and I are tough and survived until power was restored late Monday.
Luckily I charged my Kindle and I read quite a bit without tv and the internet intruding. I need to unplug more often.

>93 Crazymamie: Happy Tuesday, Mamie! Hope all is well in your corner!

Morning, Lynda! Hooray for the generous neighbors! I am glad you have your power back. All is well here - we are finally getting some cooler weather, well, cooler for Georgia. 70s and 60s this week with lower humidity, which is most welcome. Very happy making.

>96 Crazymamie: That sounds perfect. It can’t be fun living in the armpit of American mugginess.
So, by me it’s snowing! Lake effect from that pond to my north. Travel advisories etc etc etc. I guarantee you the sun is shining and there’s no snow 2 hours south of me. Sigh

Snow! I miss snow.

What nice neighbors! And smart of you to have your Kindle all charged up. Glad you have your power back!

>98 Crazymamie: Awe, Mamie! Too bad I didn't read your post sooner, I'd have sent you some. Oh well, I'm sure there will be more to come. ;0)

>99 mstrust: Jennifer, My development is awesome but my next door neighbors in particular have been so kind and helpful with yard work and household tasks and advice. I love 'em!
_________________--

I'm gonna pop a bowl of popcorn, cozy up by the fireplace and try to read a large chunk of a Netgalley I've been working on by Paula McLain When the Stars Go Dark. It is a departure from her previous novels and I'm still deciding if I'm liking this one about abducted and possibly abused girls. Not exactly a joyful read.

>97 Carmenere: I am another that misses snow - well four seasons at least. The idea of snow is better than its actuality.

I would like the actual thing, please.

I love the sound of your evening in front of the fireplace, Lynda. What did you decide about the book?

It sounds like you have great neighbors, Lynda. Yes, unplugging more is a good thing.

>101 PaulCranswick: I agree, Paul, the idea of snow and all the nostalgic fuzzies it entails is far more romantic the the real stuff.

>102 Crazymamie: It was an ok read, Mamie. Yet, I couldn't wait to have it finished. (see review below)

>103 BLBera: Beth, our neighbors are so helpful and caring. In fact, our entire development encompasses the It Takes a Village senario and puts it into action.

When the Stars go Dark
Paula McLain
2021
NetGalley ebook
3/5

I am no stranger to author, Paula McLain. I first met her in 2011. Her novel The Paris Wife concerning Hemingway and his marriage to first wife, Hadley, was captivating. I was reintroduced to her in 2018's Love and Ruins. Another homage to Hemingway and his travels and marriage to journalist Martha Gellhorn. Once again, an interesting historical fiction capturing bygone days.
In her latest novel, When the Stars Go Dark, also somewhat historical in nature, the author takes the reader to the early 1990's when there seemed to be an influx of kidnapped girls, all to often resulting in bad news.
Central to this story is Detective Anna Hart, she works to find missing children, some abused, some orphaned by the loss of parents through death, drugs or both.
She herself is going through a huge, though somewhat ambiguous, loss. She is forced to leave her home and family in San Francisco and decides to return to Mendocino where she has fond memories. She throws herself into what she knows best and works with the local sheriff to find a missing girl.
It is a dark, sad read and, particularly in 2020, not the type of escapism one is looking for.
Nonetheless, if you're looking for a police procedural focusing on detective work before the internet and social media offered assistance, a good whodunit, with a decent conclusion, then you may enjoy this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
Publication Date: April, 2021.

Happy 2nd Annual Catchupuary, 2020!
Last year I began Catchupuary in Mid December, clearly, not enough time.
So this and all future Catchupuaries will begin the week of Thanksgiving.

Check this thread to follow my progress :0)

Catchupuary, 2020!

In case you missed it:

The 2021 Tournament of Books Long List:

Afterlife Julia Alvarez
Apeirogon Colum McCann
Barcelona Days Daniel Riley
Barn 8 Deb Olin Unferth
Black Sunday Tola Abraham
Breasts and Eggs Mieko Kawakami
A Burning Megha Majumdar
The Cactus League Emily Nemens
A Certain Hunger Chelsea G. Summers
A Children’s Bible Lydia Millet
Clap When You Land Elizabeth Acevedo
Cleanness Garth Greenwell
The Cold Millions Jess Walter
Crossings Alex Landragin
Deacon King Kong James McBride
The Death of Vivek Oji Akwaeke Emezi
The Disaster Tourist Yun Ko-Eun
Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line Deepa Anappara
Docile K. M. Szpara
Dominoes at the Crossroads Kaie Kellough
The Down Days Ilze Hugo
Drifts Kate Zambreno
Earthlings Sayaka Murata
The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree Shokoofeh Azar
Exciting Times Naoise Dolan
Four by Four Sara Mesa
The Glass Hotel Emily St. John Mandel
Hamnet Maggie O’Farrell
Hitting a Straight Lick With a Crooked Stick Zora Neale Hurston
The Hole Hiroko Oyamada
Include Me Out María Sonia Cristoff
Interior Chinatown Charles Yu
Jack Marilynne Robinson
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 Cho Nam-Joo
The Knockout Queen Rufi Thorpe
Leave the World Behind Rumaan Alam
Little Eyes Samanta Schweblin
Long Bright River Liz Moore
Low Jeet Thayil
Luster Raven Leilani
Memorial Bryan Washington
Must I Go Yiyun Li
My Dark Vanessa Kate Elizabeth Russell
Network Effect Martha Wells
The Night Watchman Louise Erdrich
Nights When Nothing Happened Simon Han
Or What You Will Jo Walton
Piranesi Susanna Clarke
Pizza Girl Jean Kyoung Frazier
Real Life Brandon Taylor
Red Pill Hari Kunzru
The Resisters Gish Jen
Ring Shout P. Djèlí Clark
Sansei and Sensibility Karen Tei Yamashita
The Searcher Tana French
Sharks in the Time of Saviors Kawai Strong Washburn (Camp ToB winner)
Shuggie Bain Douglas Stuart
Sisters Daisy Johnson
Straight From the Horse's Mouth Meryem Alaoui
Such a Fun Age Kiley Reid
Summer Ali Smith
Take Me Apart Sara Sligar
Telephone Percival Everett
Temporary Hilary Leichter
Tender Is the Flesh Agustina Bazterrica
These Violent Delights Micah Nemerever
Topics of Conversation Miranda Popkey
trans(re)lating house one Poupeh Missaghi
Transcendent Kingdom Yaa Gyasi
True Love Sarah Gerard
Two Blankets, Three Sheets Rodaan Al Galidi
Untamed Shore Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Untold Night and Day Bae Suah
Valentine Elizabeth Wetmore
The Vanishing Half Brit Bennett
Want Lynn Steger Strong
We Ride Upon Sticks Quan Barry

OMG, another list already!

I love your idea of Catchupuary. I've been lingering over several books this year, and may try to finish them before the year ends.

>108 ffortsa: I know, right?! And it's a long one, for sure!
Catchupuary is a nice way to start the new year with a clean slate or at least a little cleaner slate.

Morning, Lynda. Happy Wednesday. Did you ever get any snow? Ours is gone but the rain continues and will through the day. Looks like another day indoors with the books.

>107 Carmenere: Big list. I am amazed how many of these I haven't read. I really want to get to Jack & Transcendent Kingdom.

>110 msf59: Nope, Mark, we didn't get a flake of snow. A couple drops of rain but not much but gray skies.
It is a great list, so many I have my eye on too. I put my NetGalley of Apeirogon aside but hope to finish it by the end of the year. Have you read it? Lots of symbolism with aviary friends.

Morning, Lynda! That is some list - I have not read any if them, but I do have several of them in the stacks.

I also like the sound of Catchupuary!

Hey Mamie! A few of those books have won prizes elsewhere. As I mentioned to Mark, I've been reading Apeirogon off and on and I really want to finish it soon. It's well written however I find the timeline wonky.

When I worked in the Finance Department at City Hall there was a period of time each year when we were closing the books for one year while opening the books for another. I would refer that in-between time as catchupuary and chaotic.

Happy Thanksgiving to all who enter here!

Turkey is on the menu mainly because Will loves turkey sandwiches and this mom aims to please. During these "stay at home" days, it's so nice we enjoy each others company.....and our house is large enough to have some space, if needed.
We'll watch football, maybe a movie, play some backgammon and share a toast on the deck with neighbors.

Have a good day, y'all

Morning, Lynda. Happy Thanksgiving, my friend. Hooray for turkey sandwiches. We are keeping it simple this year. Just my FIL. Bree is with Sean's family and Matt is with his girlfriend's family.. Happy Thanksgiving, my friend. Enjoy. We are keeping it simple this year. Just my FIL. Bree is with Sean's family and Matt is with his girlfriend's family.

I have not read Apeirogon but it is on my TBR list.

Morning, Lynda! Happy Thanksgiving! You plans for the day sound full of fabulous. I know that today will be bittersweet; please know that we are thinking of you and Will today and sending you our love.

>115 msf59: Mark, This year, simple seems to be the safe way to celebrate Thanksgiving in order for our loved ones to celebrate many future Thanksgivings.

>116 Crazymamie: Thanks Mamie, that's very much appreciated.

I tried to visit some threads this morning but if I missed you please know that I wish you all a great day! However, I've got a bird waiting in the fridge for me to gussy him up for the big day.

This Brit wishes to express his thanks for the warmth and friendship that has helped sustain him in this group, Lynda.

I hope you had a good Thanksgiving, Lynda. I know holidays are hard when you've recently lost a loved one, and I was thinking of you.

>107 Carmenere: Thanks for the list.

>119 PaulCranswick: Awe, Paul, you are most welcome. The feeling is mutual!! xx

>120 BLBera: Thank you, Beth.
This year, it seemed as if I wasn’t alone in missing loved ones at our dinner table. Because of stay at home warnings, virtually many, many people were missing friends and family that would normally be at their table. In an odd way, it made it a bit easier.

>107 Carmenere: That is one long list! I’ve only read four of them and have two on hold at the library. I love reading the commentaries during the March Tourney. Something to look forward to!

I rather enjoyed our simpler Thanksgiving this year mainly because it was at my son’s house. The downside is no leftovers. You and Will enjoy your turkey sandwiches. Lynda, I’m sad that there was an empty place at your table...and so many other empty places around the country. These are indeed sad times.

>122 Donna828: So nice to see you, Donna!
It’s shaping up to be a weird Christmas too. Normally, we’d host about 20 family members on Christmas Eve. My cousin suggested she do it this year the weekend before Eve but COVID numbers are increasing and some people are feeling skittish about large gatherings.
Decisions decisions!

————
So the kitties are climbing the tree! No lights or ornaments yet.
Kitty owners!! What is your sure fire method to stop them?

Morning, Lynda. Happy Sunday. Our Christmas Eve will be the smallest and quietest we have had since we were married. I think just Bree and Sean are coming over and possibly my FIL. Sue is just happy she doesn't have to prepare as much. She will get a break.

>123 Carmenere: I think some people use a spray of some sort, but I don't know that there is a way. Best advice: 1) Buy cheap trees since you'll need to replace often. 2) Don't use breakable ornaments until they outgrow the tree climbing stage. Chewy offers these tips: https://petcentral.chewy.com/holiday-safety-tips-pet-proofing-christmas-tree/ I like some of the tips offered by Country Living magazine: https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g28916373/how-to-keep-cats-out-of-c...

>124 msf59: Sounds cozy, Mark!
I talked to my cousin yesterday and rather do a large family gathering anywhere she'll have a get together at her house in the summer, when, hopefully everything will be back to normal or close to it.

>125 thornton37814: Lori! I knew you'd be the go to person for kitty advice.
So, this morning, while I was making coffee, I saw the tree go down and the little culprit dash away.
Thanks for the links! I prefer the ideas from Country Living as well.
These seem particularly doable:
1. put some bells on the tree to signal nefarious behavior
2. pine cones with apple cider vinegar sprayed on them
3. orange rinds at the base and
4. paper garland

I think this will help but I may forgo using only ornaments which I wouldn't mind seeing destroyed.

Morning, Lynda!
Oh no, your kitties are already out to destroy your tree? I haven't had a cat in years but I'll be interested in hearing if the tricks work. My eight year old boxer got nosey a few days ago and yanked a shopping bag of ornaments off the counter, breaking a glass one, but at least she's never pulled down a tree. Yet.

Hey Jennifer, I ran out to get a few essentials before the big snow storm hits tonight, you know, milk - bread - brandy eggnog and oranges.
So far, I've placed a few bells on the tree and I'll try the orange rinds later. Fingers crossed

>126 Carmenere: Those were the same ones I liked at Country Living!

P.S. Another cat friend mentioned today that she'd found some clip on candles to use in lieu of strands of lights since some kitties like to taste the electric cords.

We no longer have cats but at one time I had a couple and one simply loved to curl up under the tree and nap, but the other, well, she climbed it, she knocked ornaments off, and she messed with the lights. We ended up putting our vacuum cleaner under the tree and switching it on whenever she approached the tree. This worked well as she was not a fan of the vacuum. Of course we still had to remember to close the room off when we were out so she couldn't sneak in while we were gone.

>129 thornton37814: I hope those tips worked for your fur family, Lori.
Last night, I put sleigh bells under the tree, a couple of bells on branches and orange rinds under the tree. This morning, the tree is erect! Yay!! I’ve yet to put on ornaments. I’ll wait a little longer to be on the safe side.

>130 DeltaQueen50: haha! That’s so true, Judy, they do run when I turn on the vacuum. I’ll keep it handy for when they attempt another climb.
Isn’t seeing kitties curled up under the tree the most perfect sight?! I tried to get a picture of Melia last night but she skadaddled before I found my phone. Hehe, maybe pulling out a camera is a good deterrent too ;)

A Study in Scarlet
Arthur Conan Doyle
4/5

My first Sherlock Holmes and it wasn't what I expected.
The story is in two parts.
Part I.
The crime was discovered in London
Observant Sherlock surmises what caused it and sets a trap.
Part II.
Why is the reader, all of a sudden, taken half way across the world?
Aaaaah, That's why!! Some much needed background information regarding the motive may or may not affirm Sherlock’s logic. Is Sherlock accurate in his assumption? Well, you need to read the sad tale of love and revenge to find out.

Both parts are well written stories. The imagery in both London and Utah is outstanding.

Thank goodness, happy last month of 2020!

We’re expected to get 8 - 12” of snow today. I have an appt 5 minutes away from home this afternoon but other than that, it’s a good catchupuary day.
Apeirogon and a book I didn’t finish last month Against the Loveless World.

"8 - 12" of snow?? Nooooooooooo!

Morning, Lynda. Not a fun day to start December. I am sure you will be hunkering down with the books today.

>135 msf59: That is my plan, Mark. I’ve got the Kindle fully charged just in case of power outage.

Morning, Lynda! Good thinking with the Kindle charging. Our kitties also love to climb the tree. We always put it up and let it set a spell before decking it out just like you are doing. So interesting about the bells and the orange rinds. Our Mercy is very clever about ensconcing herself within the upper branches of the tree without us being any the wiser until we spot her in there. She never knocks the tree over or any ornaments off - I don't know how she does it. The younger kitties do not have her mad skills. Heh.

>137 Crazymamie: So funny about Mercy’s stealth escapades.
I think I scared the kitty (I don’t know which one because it was dark) when I came down the stairs! Otherwise she/he wouldn’t have gotten spooked and jumped off bringing down the tree. I guess I’m partly to blame here.

>133 Carmenere: I know, isn't that wild that a Sherlock story travels to Utah? I think this was my second or third Sherlock and it really hooked me.
I guess I wish you eight feet of snow rather than twelve, but it still seems like a lot. Stay cozy!

>139 mstrust: I have a nice two volume Sherlock anthology from Barnes and Noble so I think I’ll be interspersing Sherlock into my reading more often.
We rec’d about 18 inches of snow and driving conditions were horrendous all day. Ugh and it’s only the beginning.

I love the Holmes books and stories and have read all of them at least twice.

Did you get all that snow, Lynda?

>141 PaulCranswick: I have a lot to look forward to, Paul. I am looking forward to reading more of Sherlock in the two huge volumes of Sherlock Holmes stories I have on shelf.

Yes, indeed we did! Almost two feet of wet heavy snow which weighed tree brances to the ground or broke them, many on power lines.
On the bright side, we did not lose power, I took advantage of the low limbs to trim trees I couldn't otherwise reach and we have a snow plow service to do the snow removal. It was actually a great time for cozy reading.

Against the Loveless World
Susan Abulhawa
2020
E-book thru NetGalley
4.5/5

When we first meet Yaqoot she is in a room she refers to as The Cube. It is located in an Israeli prison. How this Palestinian born woman, raised in a Kuwaiti ghetto for Palestinian refugees came to be in solitary confinement and shackled to a wall for a portion of her day came to be, is told to the reader through Yaqoot reading her memoir to a journalist.

For many years, she felt at home in Kuwait and where she enjoyed a somewhat middle class existence with her family.
Political upheaval completely changed her life and took her to places she'd prefer not to have been but as the eldest child in a fatherless family she assumed the burden of caring for her mother, grandmother and brother.

Her short, loveless marriage only steeled her resolve to continue to live life as a single woman and care for her family, now refugees in Amman

When she is at last free to return to her birthplace, she is pleased with Palestine's lush landscape and spaciousness. However, there is trouble afoot and her former husband's family is at the heart of it.

Yaqoot's story is a sad one, filled with contradictions and oppression. Yet, the reader wants her to find happiness and a permanent home. The author's writing technique encompasses all styles making it a very readable and thought provoking novel which will surely ignite conversation making it great for book clubs.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read this net galley in exchange for an honest review.

I'm glad you didn't lose power. That sounds awful cold!

>144 mstrust: Losing power this time of year would not have been too bad. Losing it when out side temps are in the single digits or below is the absolute worst, not only for us but it’s also water pipes freezing weather.

Oooo, that fireplace looks cozy.

Son: whatcha reading there, mom?
Me: Apeirogon
Son: Almost done?
Me: Well, I’m not sure. I’m on chapter 499 for the second time.

>146 Carmenere: Oh, dear!

Morning, Lynda! I miss the cold, but I do not miss temps that make me worry about the pipes freezing.

Yeah, seriously, Mamie! The first half of Apeirogon has 499 chapters then another 499 back down....I assume to 1....I don't know, we'll see.

I think if I were transplanted to say....Georgia....I'd miss an autumn done right but I would not miss the cold or driving in snow and ice or 3 months of gray, just say'in. ;o)

Apeirogon
Colum McCann
2020
ebook courtesy of NetGalley
4.5/5

The simplified definition of an apeirogon, pulled from mathworld.wolfram.com, is a figure with an infinite number of sides.
Perhaps, author Colum McCann, chose this word as the title for this novel to exemplify just how many hands, some unknowingly, contributed to the Israeli/ Palestinian conflict. Like post-it-notes on a refrigerator, McCann gives us snippets of information about birds, music, art and weaponry that sometimes builds upon the story and sometimes has you scratching your head. Some might say, Post-it-Note chapters are a lazy way to write a book, yet,they are meaningful to the story and could be difficult to weave into the story otherwise. Yet, too, it seems in a world of twitter posts and Instagram pictures, short bits of information is what's necessary to grab the attention of people who are too busy to learn more about this bitter conflict full of indignities, segregation and oppression, on both sides.

McCann brings much of this to light in the stories of a Palestinian named Bassam and an Israeli named Rami. Both have young daughters who became victims of the ongoing violence in this volatile area. McCann takes these stories and humanizes them beyond the film clip we see on the six o'clock news. The reader feels their grief and loss, although from opposite sides of the boundary line they are the same. They are humans grieving the same way and adapting to loss the same way. It is an intimate view that goes beyond religion and nationality. Through Bassam and Rami's joint endeavor, they find, and speak on the fact, that justice doesn't come from revenge through more violence.

I looked forward to reading this book from one of my favorite authors but I'm not going to lie, it was a challenge. I put it down several times but its worth the time and effort.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book for my honest review.

That is an excellent review, Lynda - I gave it my thumb.

The Georgia weather is great for people who love summer, but I am not one of those people. This is the problem - I love the cold and the snow, although I do not miss dealing with loads of snow or worrying about frozen pipes. But 70F with 90% humidity in December is slightly depressing to me. I would love if we could have 50s temps and they would stay for several months. Instead we might get a few 50s days but they will be interspersed with days that feel more like Spring than Winter. We have lived here eight years and only turned the fireplace on once, and that was just to see what it looked like. Heh. I do get what you are saying about the grey - although I would also welcome a break from the bright sunshine that is very intense down here. But I remember the dark Winter days of Indiana, and you are right that it is a long stretch of too much darkness. I'm sending you sunny thoughts from the Deep South and wishing you happy.

Thanks, Mamie!

Sunny thoughts accepted, especially today when the clouds are so dark, heavy and close to the ground one almost needs a miners helmet to find your way.
Hehehe, Seems like we’re both looking for our perfect shangri-la. If you find it first let me know. I’d like to check out Fiji or Tahiti, maybe they’ll suffice.

Hi, Lynda. I have returned. Back to the retirement grind. Any more snow? Good review of Apeirogon. Thumb! That one is also on my TBR list. What a terrific year it's been for book releases.

Hey Mark! Thanks for the thumb! Try to shoehorn it if you can but, just a warning, short chapters do not equal a fast read

I am happy you’ve returned!

The snow has melted and only a trace is forecast for tomorrow.

I know this will be a difficult holiday, but I wish you a Merry Christmas.

.

Happy Holidays, Lynda. Praying for a much better 2021. Love the Guinness six-pack.

Thank you, Mark! hehehe i was practicing posting images on my thread before I posted elsewhere. (uh-hem, like your thread)

Hi Lynda. Wishing you peace, joy and happiness this holiday season and best wishes for the New Year!

Lynda--I know this year may be hard for you during the holidays, but I am wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

May 2021 bring you less need for masks, loads of peace and joy, good health and, of course, books!

I hope you get some of those at least, Lynda, as we all look forward to a better 2021.

>158 lkernagh: Thanks you, Lori!
>159 Berly: You said it, Kim! Thank You!
>160 PaulCranswick: Oh yes in deed, Paul! I am blessed with them all! Thank you!!

It’s a beautiful Christmas morning in Cleveland’s Snow Belt! Easily 12 inches of snow on our picnic table and it’s still coming down! Eeeee, I love it. It’s perfect snow for a snowman and snow angels!
As Tiny Tim said “God bless us, everyone!

Wishing you all the best for the holidays, Lynda. Fingers crossed that 2021 brings us much needed safety and happiness.

Thinking of you this Christmas, Lynda. What is it like living in a Christmas card world? It’s been a long time since I lived in Northern Michigan where we didn’t see the ground for months at a time. I wouldn’t mind a little snow here in Southern Missouri. It was certainly cold enough this morning...10 degrees when we walked the dog at 8:00.

>162 DeltaQueen50: Thanks, Judy! Yes, all my crossables are crossed for a better 2021.

>163 Donna828: Thanks, Donna! It's a beautiful snow and we felt snowed in today, nothing was moving outside. So still and quiet you can almost hear your eyelashes flutter.
I'm glad my kittens don't need walking - the snow is lovely to look at but I only like to be out there on my terms for very short periods of time. haha

Morning, Lynda. Happy Saturday. I hope you had a nice Christmas Day. Are you keeping those feeders filled?

Yeah, Mark, it was great! Snowed in and nice and cozy.
The feeders are filled with C&S hot pepper nuggets. The raccoons, chipmunks and squirrels dislike them and stay away. Lots of blue jays, cardinals, red bellied woodpeckers, titmouse, nuthatch, juncos, blue birds are enjoying it.

Merry Christmas, Lynda. I hope you are having a happy holiday season. I know this must be hard to be the first Christmas without your husband. My thoughts are with you.

>167 BLBera: Thank you, Beth! Surprisingly knowing that others were experiencing a very different Christmas too and not being with those they love, sort of eased my different Christmas. So many are struggling for different reasons and that is why I hope people in general, me included, have more empathy for others.

Hi Lynda and Happy New Year (a wee bit early)!! I know 2020 has been especially hard for you and I hope 2021 is just better.

>126 Carmenere: This cracked me up ("the little culprit..."). It turns out that Carson is pretty good about the tree but we still waited several days before putting any ornaments on, and then we withheld the truly fragile and most precious ones. He has his vices but it turns out that Xmas trees are not among them, at least not to a large degree. He does like butter if it's left out on the counter, though....

I agree that it's nice not to have to walk him outside. I always think I would enjoy having a dog to walk but then we get a really nasty day (35F and raining is about the worst -- give me snow instead!) and I'm relieved to stay inside with a cat on my lap.

I loved Apeirogon and I agree that McCann is a favorite author. I think his breadth is remarkable.

Keep taking care, my friend.

>169 EBT1002: Thank you, Ellen, for your kind thoughts. To different degrees, 2020 has been hard on everyone, and I think in one way or another has brought change and hardship. I think in 20 years we'll be talking about this year like soldiers talked about 1944.
As it turned out, bells and oranges only hindered the kitties for a short period of time. We decided to put four or five ornaments near the top as well as the star and left it at that. I'm hoping, next year, as they grow heavier and larger they'll give up. fingers crossed.

Finished Anxious People last night. Backman's writing is so spot on and I think many people can relate to at least something in his books.

For me, these lines were especially poignant and put into words what I've been thinking.
Bachman writes about divorce but losing a loved one in any fashion feels quite the same. "We had a life together" "reached a point in life where everything felt...complete, at last" but then "thrown out into the wilderness to find out who you are all over again."

So Christmas, though different, was actually quite nice. Having a snow storm only affirmed to Will and I why it was a good idea to stay home and another good reason why it was best for our usual Christmas Eve crowd to stay home and not drive in that mess. (Covid precautions and bad weather really helped us in getting through the first Christmas without Bill as everyone was more or less in the same boat)

Will and I had the customary Filet Mignon Christmas Eve dinner and opened presents dropped off from friends and family.
Because we had so many appetizers we finished our filets on Christmas day.
From Will, a new fitbit as my old one stopped charging, a red (my favorite color) dutch oven and Cribbage. We've had a hysterical time learning the game. Best gift ever!
The funny thing is, I was going to by him Cribbage but chose Senet for him instead because we usually play backgammon but Senet goes back even further. Now that we understand cribbage we'll learn Senet today.

We also gifted ourselves, ok basically me, an Apple desktop. The old HP Bill and I used was as slow as molasses and I don't have the patience Bill exuded so out with the old, in with the new.

Morning, Lynda. Glad you had a nice Christmas with Will. And hooray for a new desktop. Not familiar with Senet.

We are expecting some snow later. It might be the most we have had so far this season. It is supposed to be warmer with rain tomorrow, so hopefully it won't stick around.

My neighbors left for Chicago yesterday to drop off their daughter at college because of that storm. I think we're mostly getting rain both days with a little snow and ice for good measure.
Stay safe, stay home and cozy up with a good book

I'm glad see you had a happy Christmas and got exactly what you wanted! A new computer- treat yo self!

>175 mstrust: Bill and I talked about changing to a Mac but we always put it off. I know he’d be pleased.

Like the song asks....."What are you doing New Years, New Years Eve?"

Well, Will and I are having lobster tails and shrimp cocktail. Probably play Cribbage and Senet, maybe a movie. Definitely low key but it's perfect.

Just sayin, I dislike Zoom. My neighborhood book swap met last night on zoom and I think there's room for improvement here. It's just a hot mess.

Morning, Lynda. Sweet Thursday. I am not a Zoom fan, either. Ugh! Only in the teens here, along with snow and ice. It looks like I will be hanging tight today, with the books. Of course, I will be checking on my feeders now and then. First, I I will go ahead and get my 2021 thread up and running.

>178 msf59: Sweet Thursday, Mark! It's not doing anything in my neck of the woods, just being gray. Still, I'm hanging tight anyway.
I'll have to scope out the new threads. Let's kick 2020 under the bus!

Are there any fitbitters out there who still use a Fitbit Alta HR.
i have two wristbands in the package that i haven't used. They're size small - one in black, one in silver. If you can use them let me know.

Lynda

As the year turns, friendship continues

>181 PaulCranswick: 40 minutes to go here and 2021 can't get here soon enough!
Friendship is always a reason to celebrate and toast to its continuation!xx