Lynda(Carmenere)'s Book Resort - 2

Den här diskussionen är en fortsättning på: Lynda(Carmenere)'s Book Resort - 1

Den här diskussionen fortsatte här: Lynda(Carmenere)'s Book Resort - 3

Diskutera75 Books Challenge for 2021

Bara medlemmar i LibraryThing kan skriva.

Lynda(Carmenere)'s Book Resort - 2

1Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 4, 2021, 7:27 pm


TO ALL OF US!

75 ticker:

ROOTS ticker:

Goal #1 - Read Grafton's Kinsey Millhone Mystery Series
"A" is for Alibi ✔️
"B" is for Burglar ✔️
"C" is for Corpse ✔️
"D" is for Deadbeat ✔︎
"E" is for Evidence ✔️
"F" is for Fugitive
"G" is for Gumshoe
"H" is for Homicide
"I" is for Innocent
"J" is for Judgment
"K" is for Killer
"L" is for Lawless
"M" is for Malice
"N" is for Noose
"O" is for Outlaw
"P" is for Peril
"Q" is for Quarry
"R" is for Ricochet
"S" is for Silence
"T" is for Trespass
"U" is for Undertow
"V" is for Vengeance
"W" is for Wasted
"X"
"Y" is for Yesterday
Then move on to another series I own........

Goal #2 - NetGalley's kept up to date

The Geometry of Holding Hands
Alexander McCall Smith

1. The Other Side of the Door ✔️
Nicci French

The Buddha and the Bee
Cory Mortensen

The Darkest Evening
Ann Cleeves

Tidelands
Philippa Gregory

The Last Agent
Robert Dugoni

3. (Per Mamie) The Last Tourist ✔️
Olen Steinhauer

A Good Neighborhood
Therese Anne Fowler

Crossings
Alex Landragin

The Bright Side Sanctuary for Animals
Becky Mandelbaum

All Quiet on the Western Front
By Erich Maria Remarque; Adapted by Wayne Vansant

The Tenant
Katrine Engberg

The Old Success
Martha Grimes

Big Lies in a Small Town
Diane Chamberlain

There You Are
Mathea Morais

The Book of Science and Antiquities
Thomas Keneally

2. (per drneutron) The Long Call ✔️
Ann Cleeves

Goal #3 - Timely completion of Neighborhood Bookswap books

What I Know for Sure - Oprah Winfrey
When We Believed In Mermaids/Barbara O'Neil ✔️
Anxious People/ Backman. - Reread ✔️
The Indifferent Stars Above by Daniel James Brown ✓
Behind the Beautiful Forevers-Katherine Boo ✔️
The Midnight Library - Matt Haig✔️
Almost Sisters by Joshilyn Jackson
The Poisonwood Bible - by Barbara Kinsolver
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple - Reread
This Tender Land by William Krueger
The Poppy War by RF Kuang
American Spy by Lauren Wilkinson
The woman in cabin 10- Ruth Ware - Reread

Goal #4 Library Book Club
February: 142 Ostriches ✔️
March: Ordinary Grace ✔️
April: If you lived here, you'd be home by now ✔️
May: The Royal Governess ✔️
June: La Rose

What's up for January:
A is for Alibi ✔️
B is for Burglar ✔️
The Other Side of the Door NetGalley ✔️
The Midnight Library My submission for NBS ✔️

What's up for February
142 Ostriches Library book club✔️
C is for Corpse✔️
Behind the Beautiful Forevers NBS✔️
The Long Call ✔️
The Last Season ✔️

What's up for March
The Indifferent Stars Above NBS ✔︎
Ordinary Grace Library Book Club ✔️
D is for Deadbeat
The Last Tourist Netgalley ✔️
The Dark Wind ✔️

What's up for April
If You Lived Here, You'd be Home by Now Library book group ✔️
Anxious People Neighborhood Book Swap ✔️
My Name is Red Berly is hosting a group read and since it's my favorite book of all time......✔️
E is for Evidence ✔️
Return of the God Hypothesis NetGalley

What's up for May
The Royal Duchess Library book group ✔️
When We believed in Mermaids - Neighborhood Book Swap ✔️
F is for Fugitive
Return of the God Hypotheses NetGalley

2Carmenere
Redigerat: jun 6, 2021, 6:57 am

Books Completed:

January:

1. A is for Alibi ROOT
2. B is for Burglar ROOT
3. The Midnight Library - NBS - ROOT
4. The Other Side of the Door - NG - ROOT

February
5. 142 Ostriches - Library book club
6. The Lost Season - ROOT
7. The Long Call - ROOT & NG
8. Beyond the Beautiful Forevers - NBS
9. C is for Corpse - ROOT

March
10. The Indifferent Stars Above - NBS
11. Ordinary Grace - Library Book Club
12. D is for Deadbeat - ROOT
13. The Last Tourist - NetGalley ROOT
14. The Dark Wind - ROOT

April
15. If you lived here you'd be home by now - Library Book Club
16. Anxious People - Reread NBS
17. E is for Evidence - ROOT

May
18. The Royal Duchess Library book group ✔️
19. When We believed in Mermaids - Neighborhood Book Swap ✔️
20. My Name is Red - reread
21. Whereabouts
22. Paper Girls 1
23. Alone

June
24. What I know for sure

3Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 25, 2021, 4:05 pm

What's up for March.....

The Indifferent Stars Above NBS ✓
Ordinary Grace Library Book Club ✓
D is for Deadbeat ✔️
The Last Tourist Netgalley✔️
Joshua in the Holy Land
The Dark Wind

4PaulCranswick
mar 1, 2021, 2:33 pm

Happy new thread, Lynda.

>1 Carmenere: Also a nice plea to the year to play fair for a change. x

5figsfromthistle
mar 1, 2021, 3:58 pm

Happy new one!

6Carmenere
mar 1, 2021, 4:09 pm

Thank you, Paul! You are numero uno!

Thank you, figsfromthistle!

---
True to form, March is coming in like a lion. Extremely windy and I'm hoping power stays on. (fingers crossed)
Should be a good night to plunge into The Indifferent Stars Above. It's by the same author who wrote The Boys in the Boat and I thought that was well done.

7mstrust
mar 1, 2021, 5:09 pm

Happy new thread, Lynda!
Looks like the remodeling bug has bitten you! I got one room re-done and now I'm wheedling for a second :-D

8drneutron
mar 1, 2021, 5:23 pm

Happy new thread!

9Carmenere
mar 1, 2021, 5:45 pm

>7 mstrust: Yup, Jennifer, bitten for sure. I can only do so much then I have to call in the pros which I'll do in the spring.
Isn't it great to re-do?! It's so liberating!

>8 drneutron: Thanks Jim! BTW I just finished The Long Call which you had mentioned you had read and liked. I liked it too. My first one in the Ann Cleeves series and I have another netgalley of hers in my queue for later this year.

10FAMeulstee
mar 1, 2021, 6:16 pm

Happy new thread, Lynda!

11Carmenere
mar 1, 2021, 8:56 pm

Thanks, Anita!

12Carmenere
mar 1, 2021, 8:59 pm

#9 The Long Call
Ann Cleves
2019
3.75/5
NetGalley/ROOTS

Not only is The Long Call the first installment of Ann Cleves new Two Rivers series it is also the first book by this author that I have read.
It appears to have all the elements that I've come to expect in a mystery; atmospheric English towns, sketchy characters, murder, missing persons and a police department with a few characters of its own.
Detective Matt Venn has returned to Devon, the town of his upbringing, yet he's estranged by almost everyone he once new including his family, friends and church. Yet, he's determined to try again, this time with his partner Jonathan who manages Woodyard an artsy establishment which helps out the community and those with mental or physical disabilities. Unfortunately, it is also the venue which employed the person who was murdered.
The novel seemed a bit longer than it should have been but it was good enough to want me coming back to Devon for more.

13BLBera
mar 1, 2021, 11:02 pm

Happy new thread, Lynda.

I am also a fan of The Long Call; I'm waiting for the next one in the series.

14Carmenere
mar 2, 2021, 9:16 am

>13 BLBera: Morning, Beth! Oh, that's cool! I'm glad the publisher allowed me access to the ARC, too bad I waited almost a year to read and review it. Thanks to Jim's (drneutron) praise, I didn't put it off any longer.

15msf59
mar 2, 2021, 10:06 am

Morning, Lynda! Happy New Thread! How is everything in OH? Are you keeping up with your feeders? I have definitely seen an uptick in activity these past few days.

16Carmenere
mar 2, 2021, 10:10 am

Howdy, Mark! The sun is shining and everything is great! Gov DeWine is opening up covid vaccines to those 60 and older so in 20 days I will be eligible. Yay.....I guess? Yes, feathered ones are busy and the feeders and I think they're beginning to pair up. Ahhh, gotta love spring!

17justchris
mar 4, 2021, 9:58 am

>9 Carmenere: I hope the remodel goes well. I'm excited about having a job because it means I get the recycled glass countertops installed this year! So pretty! But first, finish the painting...

18Carmenere
mar 4, 2021, 10:51 am

Hi Chris, hahaha I just spent the last half hour looking at recycled glass countertops. What a cool concept. Then that drew me to bathtub websites and I haven't done anything at all this morning. Home improvement is so fun but so time consuming. Enjoy your new countertops.

19jnwelch
mar 4, 2021, 1:22 pm

Happy New Thread, Lynda!

Oh, I'm glad your Gov is lowering the age threshold for covid vaccines. They did that here in Illinois and it made it possible for Debbi and I to get ours. Good luck with the remodeling.

20DeltaQueen50
mar 4, 2021, 1:29 pm

Hi Lynda, The Long Call is on my list but I am going to try to finish off her Shetland Island series before I start a new one. She's very good at describing the locations and atmosphere. Good luck with your vaccine.

21Carmenere
mar 4, 2021, 4:29 pm

>19 jnwelch: Welcome Joe and thank you. Happy to read you've been vaccinated. I've tried, but I can't even register for the vaccine till I turn 60. I'll just have to be patient.
I've been starting some projects on my own but I really want to be vaccinated before I allow a bunch of strangers in my house to do the major work.

>20 DeltaQueen50: Hi Judy! I'll be jumping into a Vera Stanhope novel soon, Ugh the 9th of 9 in that series, it's another NetGalley. I hope it's just as atmospheric as The Long Call and I'll definitely put the Shetland Island series on my TBR. I think atmosphere is just as much a character as the people in the novel.

22justchris
mar 4, 2021, 9:48 pm

>18 Carmenere: Yup. Home improvement rabbit hole. More like worm hole, then you find yourself in the Delta Quadrant...

23Carmenere
mar 5, 2021, 12:09 pm

>22 justchris: hahaha Too funny but so true!!

24BLBera
mar 6, 2021, 10:43 am

I just got my first shot, Lynda, and what a relief. It sounds like supplies are ramping up, so I hope you get yours soon.

Home improvement is on my mind as well. After spending so much time here, I want to gut the place. :)

25Carmenere
mar 6, 2021, 2:04 pm

>24 BLBera: Yay! That's great to read, Beth! A convention center in downtown Cleveland is going to begin vaccinating thousands a day next week. I'm not about to drive down there twice, so I'll just keep checking the local pharmacies.
Hahaha, I know what you mean! I want to gut the first floor but I know it would gut my bank account too so I'll just take care of the necessities.

26Carmenere
mar 6, 2021, 5:17 pm

#10 Ordinary Grace
William Kent Krueger
Library Book Group
5/5

Wow! That's the book in a nutshell but I'll expand on that just a bit.
It's the summer of '61 and the lives of two families are about to change in drastic and tragic ways but also in ways beyond description.
The phenomenal writing of the author leverages the tragic with humor and the brotherly love shared by Frank and Jake.
I'm not saying any more, you need to experience this well developed story,rich characters and sense of place yourself.
Obviously, I highly recommend it.

27mstrust
mar 8, 2021, 9:32 am

Dropping in to say "Morning, Lynda!"

28Carmenere
mar 8, 2021, 9:55 am

>27 mstrust: Good morning, Jennifer! I'm just hanging around until zoom library discussion begins at 10. Have a great day!

29Carmenere
mar 8, 2021, 11:04 am

Well, that Zoom went well. There were about 10 participants and we all loved Ordinary Grace. So much to discuss.

30The_Hibernator
mar 8, 2021, 11:58 am

William Kent Kreuger is a native of Minnesota, so I see him sometimes at bookstores. He seems like a pretty nice guy.

31Carmenere
mar 8, 2021, 3:13 pm

Wow, that's cool! I'd peak to see what he was buying ;0)

32cbl_tn
mar 8, 2021, 7:59 pm

Hi Lynda! Ordinary Grace sounds like a good read. I'll have to keep an eye out for it!

33Carmenere
mar 8, 2021, 9:19 pm

I think you might like it, Carrie.

34BLBera
mar 9, 2021, 11:48 am

Hi Lynda - Yes, gutting is not in the budget, especially as I am thinking about retiring.

I must get to Ordinary Grace. I've heard so many good things about it. Have you read any of his Cork O'Connor series? I really like those as well, which reminds me, I should get back to it.

I need to retire to be able to do all the reading I want!

35Carmenere
mar 9, 2021, 2:59 pm

>34 BLBera: Oooo, retirement! what a sweet word! hahaha But don't think you'll have more time to read, well maybe a little more but there are so many other things, mainly good things, that will vie for your time. But I'm happy to read you're considering it.
One of the ladies in the library book discussion group mentioned Cork O'Conner. If you like the series then I must put it on my to read list.

36Carmenere
mar 10, 2021, 9:49 am

So now my new time sponge is Virgin River on Netflix. I love the location and the characters are troubled but the viewer tends to care about them. Also, more dimples.

37mstrust
mar 10, 2021, 11:25 am

I think our next drama on Netflix will be Hap & Leonard but I'll look for Virgin River.
We started Truth Seekers on Prime last night and I like that. It's a half hour sci-fi comedy starring Nick Frost and Simon Pegg.

38Carmenere
mar 10, 2021, 5:09 pm

>37 mstrust: I don't have Prime but I will check out Hap & Leonard. So many of these non network shows are so well done.
I've got to check out Nomadland too. I guess that one's just a movie so not a huge time guzzler.

39Carmenere
mar 11, 2021, 1:22 pm

#11 The Indifferent Stars Above
Daniel James Brown
4/5

When you think you're having a bad day, read The Indifferent Stars above and learn what it was like to be traveler in the Donner Party in the 1840's.
Moving west on foot and covered wagons from Illinois to their intended destination, California, the party became separated from their guide. Lost between mountains and more mountains, snowed in and with little or no provisions their fortitude and willingness to survive beyond the imaginable are disclosed.
Interspersed with the events of the journey, the author offers historical information of what life in the mid 19th century entailed. He also includes other instances of people in similar circumstances.
An engrossing read, for sure!

40Carmenere
mar 11, 2021, 1:58 pm

Trying to get an appointment for a covid vaccine is a complete joke. That is all.

41Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 11, 2021, 2:07 pm

Next up, The Last Tourist, thanks Mamie for giving me a gentle shove to it and also the next in the Grafton series, D is for Deadbeat.

42Carmenere
mar 12, 2021, 9:53 am

>40 Carmenere: It's all in the approach. I sat down at my computer yesterday sang a little vaccine song and bam! a timeslot pops up at my local Giant Eagle. I did not hesitate one second and registered immediately. Yeah me! now I can get back to doing other things :0)

43BLBera
mar 12, 2021, 12:21 pm

Hooray for a vaccine appointment! I got my first jab last week through my health care provider. He sent me an email telling me to sign up for a time. Then, the next day, our state portal told me I had been chosen and also asked me to sign up! Suddenly everyone wants to vaccinate me!

44Familyhistorian
mar 14, 2021, 7:23 pm

Good to see that you enjoyed The Long Call. I think that was my favourite of her series so far. Maybe that's just because I was in at the beginning. Yay for getting your vaccine appointment. Ours are months away. They're doing the 90 year olds now.

45msf59
mar 15, 2021, 8:26 am

Morning, Lynda. Happy Monday. We can say that now, right? I have wanted to read Ordinary Grace since it came out and it keeps getting crowded out. The Indifferent Stars Above sounds like a good one too.

46Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 15, 2021, 2:58 pm

>43 BLBera: Hi Beth! yay for 1 vaccine down! I have not heard from my provider, my county, nobody! So, I repeatedly checked drug store and grocery stores. When a slot opened up it was for a store across town and I know if Bill were here he'd of taken it and we would have made a day of it but I'm not crazy about driving out of my comfort zone so I was overjoyed, when after 4 days of trying, my Giant Eagle popped up. It's funny, I happened to sing a little affirmative song while I was logging in to check and BAM! there it was. The power of music hehehe

>44 Familyhistorian: It could be Meg, the beginning of a series is the best place to start, for sure! Wow! I'm a little surprised - Canada always seems to be on top of things. Shrugs
My state, Ohio, just opened up the vaccine to those 50+ so rather having to wait a few more weeks for 60+ I was able to get one earlier.

>45 msf59: hahaha, most definitely, Mark! For us, any day of the week is a happy one. Yeah, Krueger's been on my radar for awhile and this year I've been pushed to OG by library book club and later this year, This Tender Land by my neighborhood book group. Perfect timing. I think I've read The Indifferent Stars Above or something like it. I thought it had to do with Mormons crossing the mountains. hmmm

47Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 19, 2021, 9:39 am

#12 D is for Deadbeat
Sue Grafton
4.5/5

I think I'm changing my middle initial to B for blindsided. For the second time this year, a novel took me off guard. D is for Deadbeat did just that and I'd even venture to say this book in the ABC series has been the best so far.
It starts off with an ex-con wanting a cashier's check for $25,000 delivered to a 15 year old boy. Before Kinsey can deliver the check, the deadbeat is murdered and the suspects are numerous. Could the deadbeat's sins of the past have played into it or maybe some under the table drug deals in prison has some revenge minded criminals seeking their cash back? Hmm. Definitely worth the time to read this one and find out.

48Carmenere
mar 19, 2021, 9:46 am

I'm midway through The Last Tourist it contains enough locations and characters to make my head spin and yes, I'm intrigued.
I've started The Dark Wind by Hillerman. One of my favorite deceased authors who never disappoints when it comes to descriptive scenery and native american traditions.

49Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 19, 2021, 5:56 pm

My NCCA bracket is busted. That's what happens when you choose with your heart and not your head :(

50msf59
mar 22, 2021, 12:55 pm



Have a great day, Lynda! Celebrate with a few refreshments and get out for some fresh air. Spring is inching it's way here.

51Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 23, 2021, 10:52 am

Thanks, Mark! It turned out to be the sunniest March 22Thend in recent memory. I got some fresh air on a long with my SIL and her SIL then later enjoyed a birthday beverage on my neighbors deck to watch the sunset.
Prezzies to myself include: The Golden Gate Mstrust's review book bulletted me
Shattered Air I'm intrigued by people hiking Yosemite's Half Dome

52Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 23, 2021, 10:56 am

Thanks, Mark! It turned out to be the sunniest March 22Thend in recent memory. I got some fresh air on a long with my SIL and her SIL then later enjoyed a birthday beverage on my neighbors deck to watch the sunset.
Prezzies to myself include: The Golden Gate by Vikram Seth, mstrust's review book bulletted me
Shattered Air I'm intrigued by people hiking Yosemite's Half Dome
My Name is Red a reread of my favorite book for Berly's group read

53mstrust
mar 23, 2021, 1:34 pm

Happy birthday, Lynda! I hope you enjoy The Golden Gate.

54Carmenere
mar 23, 2021, 3:10 pm

Thanks, Jennifer! I have a feeling I will. I usually like being introduced to a new to me author :0)

55BLBera
mar 23, 2021, 3:45 pm

Happy birthday, Lynda. Many happy returns. It sounds like you had a great day.

56Carmenere
mar 23, 2021, 6:39 pm

Thanks, Beth. Let me put it this way, it was better than I thought it might be. I have really terrific neighbors, friends and family who made sure I kept busy and wasn't alone. When Will comes home we will celebrate my birthday, his and Easter so the fun's not over yet.

57Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 25, 2021, 4:35 pm

#13 The Last Tourist
Olen Steinhauer
Kindle
NetGalley
3/5
Buckle up your seatbelts for this read, folks! As this was my first venture into this series I was not expecting so much travel, so many characters, or multiple issues. The story is far reaching and sometimes confusing but if you like espionage thrillers, this one's for you. I think to fully appreciate the depth of Steinbauer's writing, one should begin with "The Tourist' the first in the Milo Weaver series and that's just what I may do.

58Carmenere
Redigerat: mar 30, 2021, 7:44 am

.

59mstrust
mar 30, 2021, 2:15 pm

You said it, Lynda.

60Carmenere
mar 30, 2021, 7:41 pm

>59 mstrust: And I'm not going to repeat myself ;0)

61mstrust
apr 3, 2021, 3:58 pm

62Ameise1
apr 4, 2021, 3:19 am

Happy Easter, Lynda.

63Carmenere
apr 4, 2021, 7:02 am

>61 mstrust: >62 Ameise1: Thanks Jennifer and Barbara! Wishing you the same!

64Carmenere
apr 12, 2021, 1:32 pm

Okie dokie, bringing my thread up to date:
#14 The Dark Wind Tony Hillerman ROOT
Like most of Hillerman's reads this was also enjoyable to me simply because he captures the southwest in prose so succinctly making his novels a quick read yet perfectly escapist. He gives Sgt. Jim Chee a profound insight into native american traditions and culture as well as a keen knowledge of his natural world and a sharp sense of humor. These are just a few reasons why I return to Jim Chee and Tony Hillerman again and again.

#15 If you Lived Here, You'd Be Home By Now Christopher Ingraham - Library Book Club
For me, just an ok read, a 3 star at most. A short memoir by Ingraham, data writer for the Washington Post. After visiting and then writing a short piece on Red Lake County, Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, the ugliest county in America, he decides that despite it has no lake, nor hills, nor falls, it may not be a bad place to relocate his family. Afterall, the people were so friendly and welcoming and the 9-5 grind and 2 hour commute in DC were getting to be rather tiresome and he and his wife were spending very little time with their two young boys. So off they went. Charles was able to submit his work to the Post online, his wife Briana quit her highly successful job to be a stay at home mom. The lower cost of living in Red Lake proved to be the catalyst for making the change. The memoir continues with tales of life in rural America where the temps get below -40f, pizza and chinese food are replaced by lutefisk and tater tot hot dish. A nice visit to Red Lake Falls but just a visit is just fine by me.

65Carmenere
apr 12, 2021, 1:38 pm

Will was home for a short break so we celebrated my March birthday, Easter and his April birthday in three days time. Fast but totally enjoyable. He gifted me with a sea glass windchime and a much needed new yoga mat. Love that kid - he knows just what I need.

So, since he's back on campus I work outside ev. ery. day! I think I pulled a muscle so today is recuperation on a rainy day. perfect!
I watched Hillbilly Elegy and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and did a little reading. Now, back to recuperating.

66msf59
apr 12, 2021, 10:24 pm

Hi, Lynda. I am glad you had a good visit with Will. I am sure you prize those moments. What did you think of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom? I really liked that film.

67Carmenere
apr 13, 2021, 9:42 am

>66 msf59: Hey there, Mark! I enjoyed Ma Rainey too. Great acting! The ending is so absurd and so unfair.

68DeltaQueen50
apr 14, 2021, 11:20 pm

Hi Lynda, just passing through with well wishes. Hope the books are treating you well. :)

69Carmenere
apr 16, 2021, 4:21 pm

Hey Judy, Thanks for stopping by! Books are being delightfully patient while I binge Netflix and Youtube. They know I'll come back to them :0)

70Carmenere
apr 16, 2021, 9:28 pm

#16 Anxious People I finished a reread of Anxious People for my Neighborhood Book Exchange. Such a clever novel. I gave it 5 stars last year and I'd do the same again.

71Carmenere
Redigerat: apr 30, 2021, 11:27 am

#17 E is for Evidence
4 stars

I'm continuing to enjoy this series and the characters Grafton has created. Although, not a novella, it is a rather short novel yet packs a punch as private detective Millhone is a target, suspected of arson and embezzlement. To add to her problems her exhusband comes back into her life. Might she be lonely enough over the Christmas holidays to invite him back in? Lot's to stew over in this one and really quite enjoyable.

72Carmenere
apr 30, 2021, 11:35 am

Ya know, when you're not sure what the next step should be, one surely presents itself. Yesterday, I noticed my kitchen ceiling is dripping water. The upstairs bathroom is above the kitchen so I'm thinking pipe in wall or floor from sink (no water issues in bathroom). But thought I'd wait a day and it would all clear up. No such thing. Further drips today had me calling the plumber we usually use but can't come out till May 13th....unless it's an emergency they'll come out for $199 service call. Well I'm not doing that, so I took the 5/13 appt and in the meantime I'll check with friends and family if they can recommend someone.
Aaah life's little adventures!

73Carmenere
maj 1, 2021, 7:53 pm

Found another plumbing business and kitchen ceiling leak repaired and sump replaced. Don't be jealous, now. Girls just like to splurge sometimes.

74Carmenere
maj 5, 2021, 5:08 pm

#18 My Name is Red finished a reread of this gem. I loved it then, I love it now.

75Carmenere
Redigerat: maj 10, 2021, 6:10 pm

#19 The Royal Governess. I read this one for my library book club. Chosen because of Prince Philip's death last month. I think the majority liked it but found the protagonist unlikeable and questioned some of her decisions. Also, some who had read The Little Princesses thought this novel was basically a rewrite of that one.
As for me, I rather liked it, somewhat interesting but also sometimes rather contrived. Funny how the troubles of today's Royal Family mirror circumstances in the 1930's.

76DeltaQueen50
Redigerat: maj 11, 2021, 7:56 pm

Hi Lynda, glad to read that your plumbing problems have been fixed - there's nothing worse than having a problem and then having to wait for someone to come and attend to it. I am adding The Royal Governess to my wishlist - yes, I am rather obsessed by the British Royal family!

77Carmenere
maj 13, 2021, 10:11 am

>76 DeltaQueen50: I hate to admit it, Judy, but I'm a bit addicted to the Royal Family too. Although, I've been pondering much about the need for them. Don't get me wrong, I'm not British or a resident of The Commonwealth, so what do I know, they seem to be lovely people and really good cheerleaders but are they all that necessary? I don't know.
Please, someone enlighten me :/

78msf59
maj 13, 2021, 11:19 am

Sweet Thursday, Lynda. I hope you are doing well. My feeders have been pretty slow lately. How have yours been? I just started Anxious People. I do like Backman.

79Carmenere
maj 14, 2021, 10:33 am

Hey Mark! Yes, feeders have been slow, even the suet looks untouched. Oh yeah, I like Backman too. I read Anxious People twice. I think it's masterful.
Enjoy the sunshine my friend.

80Carmenere
maj 14, 2021, 10:38 am

#20 When we believed in mermaids - I read this book for my neighborhood book exchange. A family saga where one member thought dead in a crash is resurrected with a new name and new life. A typical family drama filled with secrets and revelations but with the sea as a uniting force.

81BLBera
maj 14, 2021, 12:41 pm

Hi Lynda! Happy Friday. I hope all is well with you.

82Carmenere
maj 14, 2021, 1:31 pm

>81 BLBera: Hey Beth! Are you on summer vacation? I'm doing well and at my best when I'm working outdoors. Sadly, it takes away from reading time and cross stitch time. What is a girl to do?!

83Carmenere
maj 14, 2021, 2:13 pm

I thought I knew how a hose mobile worked. Now I'm confused. Off to google

84DeltaQueen50
maj 16, 2021, 11:26 pm

>77 Carmenere: I think the current Queen very popular, she's been dedicated to the "job" but I wonder about Charles, I don't think he or his wife are all that popular or admired. That said, I don't see Britain getting rid of the Royal Family any time soon.

85Carmenere
maj 18, 2021, 8:24 am

I tend to agree with you, Judy. It's going to be a very sad day when the Queen passes away. A British friend in my neighborhood said the Royal Family brings in too much money to disband "The Firm".

86Carmenere
Redigerat: jul 1, 2021, 3:21 pm

With a little inspiration from Goodreads and since my reading plans tend to change a bit anyway....Ta Da! Here is my summer read list taken from Goodreads summer reading recommendations. I chose several from each category and it's dependent upon what my library has available.

1. Readers Hottest Books of Summer
The Maidens
Malibu Rising
Survive the Light by Riley Sager
Velvet was the Night
A Slow Fire Burning

2. Armchair Travelling
Sharks in the Time of Saviors
The Nickel Boys
Little Fires Everywhere
News of the World
Dark Sky

3. Beach Read Royalty
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
Homeland Elegies
Of Women and Salt
Afterparties
Bonjour Tristesse ✔️

4. Goodreads Employees
The Starless Sea
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep
Alone ✔️
Greenlights ✔️
The Biggest Bluff
The Golden Gate
Project Hail Mary

5. Ali Wongs summer books
The Best We Could Do
The Dot ✔️
The Vanishing Half
Paper Girls ✔️

87BLBera
maj 18, 2021, 10:13 am

Good luck with your summer reading, Lynda. How is Whereabouts coming? I've been waiting for your comments.

88Carmenere
maj 18, 2021, 10:17 am

I'm on page 95, Beth, so I'll probably finish it tonight

89mstrust
maj 18, 2021, 1:26 pm

So very organized! Enjoy your summer reads, I'll be keeping up with your reviews. The only book on your list that I've read is Bonjour Tristesse, which I really liked a few years ago.
I pulled together my stack of summer reads some days ago. It's big, and includes my travel books and anything to do with heat and vacations.

90Carmenere
maj 18, 2021, 2:56 pm

Wellll, I always have good intentions, Jennifer, but my reading is sometimes replaced with other activities. I'm gonna try my best.

91scaifea
maj 19, 2021, 7:58 am

>86 Carmenere: Oh, summer reading! I just started The Nickel Boys today. Also, I *loved* News of the World!

92Carmenere
maj 19, 2021, 11:01 am

I've owned News of the World for quite some time, yet the moment never seemed right. Hopefully, now.
I love Whitehead's previous books and I've put this one off for way too long. Again, hopefully, now!

93Carmenere
maj 19, 2021, 11:07 am

#21 Whereabouts
Jhumpa Lahiri

This is Lahiri's newest and I've got to say, not quite what I expected. It is unlike her previous novels and may not be for everyone. Still, her writing is succinct and sense of place is spot on. At times, I found myself really relating to Lahiri's narrator but the novels melancholy atmosphere is definitely not a joyful read.

94BLBera
maj 20, 2021, 10:09 am

Great comments, Lynda. I think I'll go back to a volume of stories and read some of those.

95Carmenere
maj 20, 2021, 12:02 pm

Enjoy, Beth and hope you can do so outside....in a nice shady spot.

96Carmenere
maj 24, 2021, 7:03 pm

#22 Paper Girls 1
Ali Wong's Goodreads Summer Recommendations'

I found the first in this series very similar to Lumberjanes. The Paper Girls are a group of very mature pre and early teens trying to do their job delivering newspapers in a suburb of Cleveland in 1988. On this particular night the girls are being harassed by older boys, stalked by foreign speaking zombies, shot at by aliens and rescued by a couple of guys in a spaceship from the future. It really is a crazy night and somewhat confusing but if you like graphic novels and non stop action, check it out.

97msf59
maj 25, 2021, 7:40 am

Morning, Lynda. I am not seeing exactly glowing reviews for Whereabouts but I am sure I will read it at some point. I hope you can slot in News of the World.

How are those feeders doing? Mine continue to be curiously slow. I did see a male hummer yesterday, though.

98Carmenere
maj 25, 2021, 8:32 am

Hey, Mark!
Yeah, if you generally like Jhumpa you'll want to read Whereabouts. I'd love to read your thoughts when you find your way to it.

Obvious signs of pecking at the suet but not much and it seems a night vagrant got to the bird feeder and not the birds. Sigh

Congrats on the hummer sighting!!

99Carmenere
maj 29, 2021, 9:27 pm

#23 Alone Megan E Freeman
Goodread's Employee's Summer Reading Suggestions

From Goodreads Employees summer '21 recommendations comes Alone by Megan E. Freeman. This book, meant for the YA crowd, was thoroughly enjoyed by this Baby Boomer who found it a page turner.
Maddie, 12 years old going on 13, plans a secret girls night out with her two best friends at her Grandma's unoccupied summer apartment. Surrounded by snacks and sodas and frozen pizzas she waits for her friends to arrive. As luck would have it, her friends can't make it so Maddie spends the night alone and wakes up to a national emergency. No cell service, can't reach parents, her divorced parents each think she's with the other......when in actuality she's.....alone.
What you have here is a very dystopian world where everyone is gone and Maddie is forced to fend for herself, alone, for months with only George, her neighbor's Rottweiler for companionship.
Great summer read that will keep you on the edge of your beach chair.

100Carmenere
jun 6, 2021, 7:25 am

#24 What I Know for Sure - Oprah Winfrey

A few years back movie critic Gene Siskel asked Ms. Winfrey a question that really had her stumped. When asked "What do you know for sure?" she stumbled to find an answer. Later, she contemplated of what, in fact, she did know for sure. What came out of those musings is this book.
Oprah shares with her reader the past 60 plus years of her life and what she has come to realize are aspects of that life that she knows to be certain.
As I was reading, I thought, Wow, Oprah's just like me! She has interstate anxiety, crossing a bridge anxiety, passing another vehicle anxiety...blah blah blah but then she goes on to reminisce about a New Year's Day sitting on her porch watching the sunrise in Maui then later that day hiking with another famous author and I thought, Ok, Welllll, she's not just like me, afterall. But the thing is with Oprah, despite being one of the world's wealthiest women, she is very relatable, and likable. I find there is more that unites us than separates us.
There are so many good Oprahisms in this recollection you'll want to stop reading to jot them down.
Definitely a worthy read.

101PaulCranswick
jun 6, 2021, 8:17 am

>86 Carmenere: I would join you for a few of those if and when you picked them out, Lynda.

Sharks in the Time of Saviours & The Vanishing Half are two near the top of my reading lists.

102DeltaQueen50
jun 7, 2021, 5:28 pm

>99 Carmenere: Hi Lynda, I am a sucker for any kind of survivor story so I have picked up a copy of Alone for my Kindle - sounds like a story that I will enjoy. :)

103msf59
jun 8, 2021, 7:38 am

Hi, Lynda. I really enjoyed Strange Pilgrims. Thanks for chiming in on Marquez. I hope to read more of his work later this year and beyond.

104Carmenere
jun 8, 2021, 10:51 am

>101 PaulCranswick: Hey Paul! I've just picked up The Vanishing Half. Hard to say how soon I'll get to it because, naturally, all my holds came in at the same time. I'm reading LaRose for library book club and Greenlights from my list above.

>102 DeltaQueen50: Hi there Judy! Oh, then I think you will surely enjoy Alone.

>103 msf59: As luck would have it, Mark, I found Love in the Time of Cholera Sunday at a local bookstore for 1.99. I hope to reread it sometime soonish! I'm glad you enjoyed Strange Pilgrims, I did too.

105Carmenere
Redigerat: jun 12, 2021, 6:23 pm

#25 Greenlights
Matthew McConaughey

In all honesty, I didn't become a fan of McConaughey until I saw his movie Interstellar and his pretty laid back Lincoln commercials. Up til then I thought him rather pompous and full of himself. At least that's how he appeared to me. It reminds me there is more to a book than the cover.
In reading his memoir he was indeed a confident teenager with a cool truck and dating the best looking girl in high school but as I read on he is actually deeper than that.
In writing his memoir, he used the diaries, post it notes and cocktail napkins he'd been saving for 35 years to share his thoughts on living right, stressing less, assorted observations, how to have a meaningful life as well as how to enjoy the greenlights when they pass your way, deal with the yellow lights and avoid the red lights
It's a good summertime read with lots of laughs, some Hollywood chatter and lots of insight.

106Berly
jun 13, 2021, 4:39 pm

>1 Carmenere: I am on Millhone's "F" book, too! Haven't read any in ages and I really should get back to them.
>70 Carmenere: Also a fan of Anxious People and all his other books, too.
>86 Carmenere: Organized summer reading there! I have only read 3 of them and they are in the armchair category. ; )
>100 Carmenere: Oprah fan -- might have to get that one.

Happy Sunday!

107Carmenere
jun 14, 2021, 12:51 pm

>106 Berly: Hey Kim! Happy Monday! I can not believe June is half over. I should start Millhone's book within the week. So much to read from so many different directions has me in a tithy. But I'm finished with book club obligations no so should be able to get to it.

-----------------

Will and I went to a Cleveland Indians game yesterday and we thought we were in a dream. It's like Covid never happened. Fans sitting side by side, yelling and cheering. We did not see many masks - mainly on concession workers. All the while, I'm just thinking, "I hope these vaccines are working"

108Carmenere
jun 14, 2021, 12:53 pm

#26 LaRose
Louise Erdrich
Library Book Group

Like many of her novels, Ms. Erdrich tells a story of Native American culture, traditions and spiritual world.
This novel in particular deals with a tragic death and how a Native American father comes to reconcile the mishap. His young son, LaRose, is at the center of retribution and reconciliation.
I found the novel well constructed however some may find it a bit confusing at first, read on, the names and time periods will soon by understandable.
The characters are well drawn and developed well, as much is learned from past storylines.
The conclusion, in my opinion is sort of lackluster but a well told story nonetheless.

109BLBera
jun 14, 2021, 12:59 pm

Hi Lynda - You've been doing a lot of reading. The Oprah book sounds interesting. I'm not usually a fan of celebrity-written books, but she is so amazing.

I finally read the "A" book of the Grafton series! We'll see how long it takes me to get to "B."

I thought LaRose was OK, not as good as some of her other books.

110Carmenere
jun 14, 2021, 1:59 pm

Hi Beth! Yup, reading more but yard work really is a time sponge.
Yay! Did you like "A" enough to want to continue?
I thought LaRose was really well written but I'd say the majority in my library book club thought the book a fair read. I admit the ending was way to sappyhappy. I thought "surely this can't be the end?" of course, it was.

111BLBera
jun 14, 2021, 7:23 pm

I will continue, Lynda. It's just the problem of too many books.

112Carmenere
jun 15, 2021, 12:37 pm

>111 BLBera: You said it, Beth! New books continuously cut the line and before you know it, the new books are old books replaced by newer books and so on and so on. Such a vicious cycle :0)

113msf59
jun 15, 2021, 8:32 pm

Good review of LaRose, Lynda. I liked the book too. I have The Night Watchman, which just won the Pulitzer, all queued up. Love me some Erdrich!

114Carmenere
jun 16, 2021, 12:55 pm

Hey Mark! Have the birds returned to your feeders? Ours are still virtually empty :(
I've read The Round House and way back when, The Crown of Columbus which she co-wrote with her husband, I liked that one very much - who would've known then she'd have an outstanding career in writing focusing on Native Americans.

115Carmenere
jun 16, 2021, 1:17 pm

#27 The Dot
Peter H Reynolds

A very short book I discovered on Ali Wong's Goodreads summer reads list of recommendations. It is found in the Juvenile section of the library. What a great place for it! The story contains a message that kids are never to young to hear.
It is a story about talking yourself into believing you can not do something until one day, one wise individual shows you that you can.
Speaking of dots, there is a little surprise to this book that is quite appropriate for young kids you have a reason to believe they can't do something.

116Carmenere
Redigerat: okt 8, 2021, 12:48 pm

#28
Mexican Gothic
Silvia Moreno-Garcia

As a gothic novel, this book really delivers. Moreno-Garcia has written a story containing all the elements of your classic gothic romance, a relative in distress, a sickly old man, an old english mansion, graveyards, fog and mysterious family members, just to name a few. The twist in this story is the english mansion is in the center of Mexico!
The Doyle family moved from England to Mexico hundreds of years ago to mine silver. But lots of strange occurrences at the mansion begin to happen in the mountains of Mexico when the patriarch of the family's first wife dies under questionable circumstances.
It all adds up to an exciting page turner that should be in your beach bag this summer.

117msf59
jun 28, 2021, 2:15 pm

Hi, Lynda. Yes, my feeders have been slow. Birds seem to be nesting or feeding their young at the moment. I am sure things will pick back up. Looking forward to the orioles returning.

118Carmenere
jun 29, 2021, 6:17 am

#29
Bonjour Tristesse
Francoise Sagan

In 1954, the author, Francoise Sagan, then a teenager, wrote this surprisingly mature novella about a widowed father, Raymond, his daughter Cecile and his two lovers, Elsa and Anne. This particular summer Raymond invites Elsa and Anne to join him and his daughter at their rented villa on the Mediterranean coast. A recipe for an uncomfortable situation but the women tolerate each others presence, that is, until Cecile's immature scheme throws the fivesome, five because Cecile's summer lover is involved in the plot now too, into turmoil with disastrous results.
Thanks Goodreads "Beach Read Royalty" summer reading list for steering me toward this book.

119mstrust
jun 29, 2021, 9:09 am

I'm glad you like it, I did too. It is remarkable that a teenager wrote it, because it is mature and the writing seemed like someone with years of experience.

120Carmenere
jun 29, 2021, 9:40 pm

You are correct! She has a very mature understanding of adults. I read someone made a movie version of the book, I'm going to try to get my hands on it.

121DeltaQueen50
jun 29, 2021, 10:32 pm

>118 Carmenere: Bonjour Tristesse is a favorite of mine! I came to it by way of the movie which stars David Niven, Deborah Kerr and a young Jean Seberg. I think the book has a little more depth than the film but it's a great summer film and I hope you are able to find a copy to view, Lynda.

122mstrust
jun 30, 2021, 8:53 am

I really liked the movie. David Niven was perfect as the self-centered father.

123Carmenere
jun 30, 2021, 9:41 am

>121 DeltaQueen50: Wow, How did this little book off my radar for so long?! I always liked David Niven and I could see him, clearly, in the part of Raymond. I just placed a hold on it from my library system. Shouldn't be long.

>122 mstrust: Yup, I can picture him perfectly. I'll let you know what I think when I pick it up in a few days. I'm thinking the setting must be stunning as well.

124BLBera
jun 30, 2021, 11:11 am

Hi Lynda - Bonjour Tritesse sounds good. It's interesting to see your comments about Mexican Gothic; I've heard varying views on that one, so I am still on the fence.

125Carmenere
jun 30, 2021, 12:47 pm

>124 BLBera: Hi Beth - I can see why some would not like Mexican Gothic. It has a bit of magical realism in it and for those who do not care for that style, the book my be a stretch of the imagination. I'm thoroughly into magical realism so that could have played a part in my review. If you go into it knowing that and appreciating that genre then you might like it too.

126msf59
jun 30, 2021, 1:55 pm

Happy Wednesday, Lynda. I did stop by the other day but I think you may have missed me. :(

127Carmenere
jun 30, 2021, 2:32 pm

Hi there, Mark! hahaha I'm waiting on the delivery of my new progressive lens glasses. ahem, apparently I really do need them.
Thanks for stopping over. Glad my feeders are not the only ones unoccupied.

128mstrust
jul 22, 2021, 12:35 pm

Morning, Lynda! How you doin'?

129Carmenere
Redigerat: aug 1, 2021, 10:34 am

Hey Jennifer! It's been a weird summer but doin' ok. Things seemed to be easier when we were basically in lock down but now that I'm out and about and doing things without Bill, it hits hard sometime.
Hope the heat has subsided by you and you're getting lots of reading done.

130Carmenere
jul 31, 2021, 6:05 pm

#30 The Four Winds
Kristin Hannah
This is a great story. If you haven't read anything by Kristin Hannah, what's taking you so long?!
I thought this story would be some sort of Grapes of Wrath rewrite but lo and behold it is a Grapes of Wrath plus.
California is not the land of milk and honey some people had hoped. Prejudice is running amok and humanity has taken a back seat to greed and injustice.
Love this book, a must read.

131Carmenere
jul 31, 2021, 6:07 pm

#31 Malibu Rising
Taylor Jenkins Reid

A definite beach read. I really picked up Jackie Collins vibes with this one. It's a quick escapist novel. Go for it!

132Carmenere
Redigerat: aug 4, 2021, 4:07 pm

Another book purge brought in $100 of store credit. Some have been accumulating dust on my bookshelves for 5+ years. Might as well spread the book joy to others and I purchased a puzzle and a 2022 planner and have about $70 remaining on store credit. Yay, me

133DeltaQueen50
aug 20, 2021, 7:17 pm

Hi Lynda, I am just wandering through to say hi and hope that you are doing well. What with the Covid numbers being on the rise and the terrible wildfires in the interior of the province, we have decided that we will probably forego our fall road trip and simply stay home. I did get over to Vancouver Island earlier this month and finally saw my Mom after two years. Hopefully I won't have to wait that long before I go again.

134msf59
aug 21, 2021, 8:23 am

Happy Saturday, Lynda. I miss seeing you around. I hope you are doing well and enjoying those books.

135Carmenere
aug 21, 2021, 8:58 am

>133 DeltaQueen50: Good morning, Judy!! I am so happy you got in a visit to see your mom! Seeing Covid #'s rise is so disheartening. I hope all who wanted to get in some visits, vacay and indoor dining have done so. One can only guess what the months ahead will be like. I want to remain optimistic.
Will and I had some nice summer adventures together and now that he's back at school, I'll be hanging out here more often.

>134 msf59: Hey Mark! I've been a real slacker where reading is concerned but now that outdoor work is pretty much done, until the leaves fall, I hope to pick up more books.

--------
Having work done inside my house has been an absolutely distressing affair. My laundry room and 1/2 bath are on hold because the small business I had planned to work with couldn't find anyone to hire to help him out. The painters are booked till March, so that's on hold and my kitchen/family room is also on hold till appliances are more readily available. What a crazy time we live in.

Coffee this morning at the beach with neighbors then a "we're done paying for college" party later in the day.

136Crazymamie
aug 21, 2021, 9:07 am

Morning, Lynda! So great to see you posting. Sorry about the delay to your home improvements. That is so frustrating. Crazy times indeed - we had to wait forever for a dishwasher. It was like 7 or 8 months, something like that.

Hooray for coffee and good neighbors and college that is paid for. Hoping your day is full of fabulous!

137BLBera
aug 21, 2021, 2:34 pm

It's always nice to get $$$ for books, Lynda.

Too bad about your home improvement projects. I'm lucky because my SIL did some things for me this summer. It took him a long time, but he got there!

I ordered a new chair, and the delivery date is October, with no promises!

138Carmenere
aug 21, 2021, 9:03 pm

>136 Crazymamie: Hey Mamie! Nice to see you! 7 to 8 months for a dishwasher? Yup that's what I'm talking about.
Party was nice, beautiful weather, good food, catch up with family. Doesn't get much better.

>137 BLBera: Hiya Beth! Glad you had some work done. It's really difficult to find anyone who wants to takes off 5 rooms of wallpaper. I'm glad I found a nice guy who doesn't mind the high ceiling foyer. Heck, March will be here in a minute.
Yup, Furniture is another subject many people have told me is going through delays big time. I hope October is a firm date, I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

---------------
Wild Saturday night for me. I'm going to make a tall glass of chocolate milk and take my kindle upstairs and try to read at least 10-15% before I fall asleep.

139mstrust
aug 22, 2021, 9:54 am

It's good to see you back here!
I consider home repair guys to be my nemesis(es?). Also, mechanics. Any job when they can pull your stuff apart and leave. It's why I claimed the buzzsaw from one of the guys who worked in my house.
>129 Carmenere: I'm so sorry. I know when my dad died, Mom was suddenly alone in Vegas, without any family around. I'm glad you've got Will coming to see you as often as he can.

140Carmenere
aug 22, 2021, 1:03 pm

Yikes! This is what I'm afraid of. The guy who can't find help wants to do the work on the weekends. Come on, just how many weeks will I be without a washer and dryer!? Without a half bath?! I need to have some concrete info before he begins.
I can imagine that was a tough time for your mom. I am so thankful, not only for Will's visits and facetime but for the friends in my development and my Sister/Brother in laws who have been so supportive.

141Carmenere
aug 23, 2021, 7:47 am

I made power muffins this morning from a recipe I found in Better Homes and Gardens. They seem pretty healthy but is it right to put a pad of butter on each bite I take?
Seems the birds have disappeared again. Last night, I couldn't pick up anything with my Merlin Identifier app.

So, I'm selling stuff on ebay. Mainly, old history books Bill received from a friend. They're directed toward a niche group of history lovers and ebay is a great place to hook up with people interested in the same. Off to the post office today.

Only about 40% done with Cloud Cuckoo Land. I want to like it, I really do, but there's like 4 time periods and different characters for each one so I'm sort of in a tizzy.

142scaifea
aug 24, 2021, 7:21 am

Hi, Lynda! Your butter-on-every-bite comment make me snort my coffee! Because, well, same. What's in the muffins?

143Carmenere
aug 24, 2021, 12:26 pm

Hi Amber! The muffins, in part, include whole wheat flour, oats, brown sugar, greek yogurt, peanut butter, dried cherries and bittersweet chocolate - sprinkled with flax seed. They're not exactly good but good for you. The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of dried cherries - next time i'd use the whole bag. They are the best part of the muffins.

144Crazymamie
aug 24, 2021, 6:20 pm

"They're not exactly good but good for you. " This made me laugh, Lynda!

Our bird feeders have been very busy lately - it's like a party out there.

Good luck with the eBay sales.

145scaifea
aug 25, 2021, 7:37 am

>143 Carmenere: Those actually sound really good to me! I love the idea of dumping all the cherries in, though.

146Crazymamie
aug 25, 2021, 8:19 am

Morning, Lynda!

147Carmenere
aug 25, 2021, 11:19 am

>144 Crazymamie: Hahaha, I call's em like I see's em.
The birdies have been acting strangely this year. It's been like, now you see them, now you don't. After a busy July, they now seem to be packing for winter. The dreaded chipmunk and squirrel, however, have been regular visitors.
Thanks for ebay luck.

>145 scaifea: Yeah, you would think, right? I know the additional cherries will bring to 100% better.

>146 Crazymamie:. Morning, Mamie!!

Today is craft day at my house. Every two weeks or so I get together with my sister in law and her sister in law to do our individual projects. I've been working on a cross stitch since 1993, I'd put it aside for many years and now that I want to work on it, I find my eyes are wonkier, my patience, thinner and other diversions have gone up exponentially. So after trying to get back to it, I've opted, instead, to relearn knitting and crocheting. My new project are "worry worms". They're pretty easy, cute and have a purpose but I need more practice so I'll be working on that today.

148Carmenere
Redigerat: aug 26, 2021, 11:17 am

Finally! After many Lab fails and then a new lab, I have my new glasses on my face. They are my first progressive lens and I can see they will take some time to adjust my brain to them but overall, I like them. Because of the hold up and I was patient and nice thru the ordeal, the optical store had me choose another frame for a free pair of sunglasses. I'm a happy camper. :0)

-----Yikes!---- I just realized how dusty my bookshelves are.

149Crazymamie
aug 26, 2021, 12:04 pm

Hooray for the free sunglasses!! That is a major bonus. I love my progressive lenses - I did not need an adjustment period at all except for going down stairs. Be careful with that.

150Carmenere
aug 26, 2021, 12:16 pm

Major bonus, for sure, Mamie! Not b**ching pays off sometimes. no feelings are hurt. nobody gets mad and blood pressure remains low.
I loved the glasses almost immediately, until I started walking and learning how I should hold my head for different circumstances, like curbs.
Reading is at a whole new level. Love it!

151mstrust
aug 26, 2021, 1:52 pm

Hooray for being rewarded for being nice! I could really learn something from you ;-D

152Carmenere
aug 26, 2021, 2:12 pm

Awe, I think all readers are naturally nice people. You included.

153scaifea
aug 27, 2021, 8:47 am

Welcome to the progressive club, Lynda! Once you get used to them, I suspect you'll love 'em. I love mine. And yay for the reward! That's a nice touch.

154Carmenere
aug 27, 2021, 9:27 am

Hahaha, as usual, I'm late for the party. I've been putting it off for so long, too long! I've insisted on a pair for distance, a pair for reading for years but it got to the point where I really needed to see the fine print while grocery shopping and taking distance off and try to read anything w/o reading glasses was hugely frustrating.
I think these babies will be perfect.

=========
Ok, I've got to mow the lawn and I need to do it before the heat index hits 94f so off I go.
Then for my next feat, ridding mold off the bathroom ceiling caused by a wonderful, not, phenomenon in Cleveland and other humid areas.
Looks like fun day ahead. ;0)

155Crazymamie
aug 27, 2021, 9:32 am

My distance vision sucks. I got tired of always having to take off my glasses in order to read the fine print. And in my contacts, of course that was impossible. Now I do glasses full time, and I am a happy camper. If I am reading, I can do it with the glasses on or off - my near vision is excellent.

UGH to mowing the lawn. Good thinking to get it out of the way in the earlier hours. And sorry about the mold. Will there be adult drinks later? I'm hoping yes.

156BLBera
aug 27, 2021, 10:20 am

Craft day sounds like fun. I have a magnifying glass for my needlework now. :) I'm just finishing a ten-year project. I think my eyes were better when I started. :)

157Carmenere
aug 27, 2021, 4:14 pm

>155 Crazymamie: Yeah yeah yeah, I had to give up on contacts about 20 years ago. My left eye is far-sighted, my right near-sighted. At one time I only needed one contact for my left eye. Hahahaha. When I eventually needed something for my right eye, that's when things got wonky.
Even now, it took so long for my glasses to be made because the first lab couldn't get the slab right (which brings my left and right eye into aline when I'm reading. ) If it's not right, I see double. They finally used a second lab who got it right in 1 week.

>156 BLBera: As were mine, Beth. How wonderful you stuck with your project and yay! it's almost complete!!
I may go with a magnifying glass one day, first I'll see how it is with my new glasses.
In the meantime, my project is to crochet "worry worms". They're fast, fairly easy, sort of cute and fun to make.

=========
I survived mowing the lawn and spraying white vinegar on the mold. Now the evening is mine and a book. Oh yes, and with an adult beverage. When I cut the grass I spied a bunch of mint that needed weeding sooooooo hurrah for Mojito's :0)

158Crazymamie
aug 27, 2021, 4:31 pm

I am very lucky that my eyes are identical - I have never needed a left or a right contact, just two contacts. I am unusual, I guess, in that I am right handed but have a dominant right eye.

Hooray for the chores being done! Mojito is an excellent choice. Enjoy!

159Carmenere
aug 28, 2021, 10:40 am

>158 Crazymamie: The mojito was a great choice however I slept very poorly last night.

I got a nice message from instacart this morning. Appears they miss me. hahaha - so free delivery and $15 off my order for 2 orders ending 9-28. I couldn't pass it up.

160Crazymamie
aug 28, 2021, 10:55 am

Morning, Lynda! Bummer about the poor sleep.

That's a sweet deal. It's nice to be missed.

161Carmenere
aug 28, 2021, 11:01 am

Well, I guess so, although it's really not mutual. But ya can't say no to groceries, right?

162Crazymamie
aug 28, 2021, 11:04 am

Right. And why would it need to be mutual?

163Carmenere
aug 28, 2021, 11:09 am

Exactly!

164msf59
aug 28, 2021, 11:31 am

Happy Saturday, Lynda. This heat will keep me indoors this weekend but next week looks a bit more comfortable. Yah! How are those feeders doing?

165Carmenere
aug 28, 2021, 11:49 am

>164 msf59: Howdy Mark. I think I'm pretty much indoors too as I just came in from adding seed to the bird feeder and it's really oppressive out there. Apparently the birds are coming around but not when I'm looking for them.

166mstrust
aug 28, 2021, 12:16 pm

Oooh, mojitos! I love 'em, but I've never had luck in growing it here, just too dry, I guess. I do have a basil that has thrived even though it's quite leggy.

167Carmenere
aug 29, 2021, 7:41 am

OMG! Mint grows like crazy around here. We have regular mint and lemon. It's hard to corral because it's vines are far reaching and it's very hardy.
Basil, not hardy enough for these parts.

168Carmenere
Redigerat: aug 30, 2021, 9:05 am

Oh happy day! A long overdue dentist appointment! No lie, I'm actually overjoyed to meet my new dentist and hygienist. Also, an ebay pkg to mail and I think I'll stop at the coffee shop next to the post office where a friend is exhibiting his artwork.

Spent most of Sunday working on our Shutterfly album for 2020. A difficult year to recall in pictures but I think I can do it and memorialize Bill and my mom in a special way.

I'm finally 55% thru Cloud Cuckoo Land and I can finally say, I'm beginning to enjoy and appreciate Doerr's originality.

Oh may I add: Go Browns! undefeated in pre-season and looking mighty good. However, Field goal kicker is questionable for sure!!! I'll be looking for news on him shortly.

169mstrust
aug 30, 2021, 11:59 am

>167 Carmenere: The house I grew up in had wild mint growing like that in the backyard because there was a water spigot there. The mint strangled the other plants and grew tall. We also had a Eureka lemon tree that thrived year round, producing softball sized lemons that were often round like a huge grapefruit. At some point, wild grapes appeared and did really well without any help from us.
>168 Carmenere: :-D It's unusual for someone to be happy to go to the dentist. I'll bet they were happy to meet you too!

170Carmenere
aug 30, 2021, 1:35 pm

Wow! How I'd love to grow lemons in my backyard, year round, no less! We planted grapes a few years ago. No success there, maybe it was our clay soil they didn't like.
They were so nice! I like hygienists in general - it's weird to have a dentist which does both as my former dentist did. A return visit is necessary, seems I need a crown on a "first" molar. Not totally unexpected, I thought my former dentist would have done that one first before the other crowns she put in. Whatcha gonna do?
At least I'm back to dental health and well being.

171Crazymamie
aug 31, 2021, 10:35 am

Morning, Lynda! Glad the dentist visit went well. A crown? That's the story of my life. Heh. I only have one molar left without one, and they are watching it.

172Carmenere
aug 31, 2021, 11:10 am

Eek and I thought I was bad with 4 crowns. It's the price we pay for eating and living. Not a high price at all.

173Crazymamie
aug 31, 2021, 12:49 pm

I have ten. I am very thankful for dental care where they numb you up first, so I can't complain.

174Whisper1
aug 31, 2021, 1:59 pm

Hi Lynda! Thinking of you and sending all good wishes!

175Carmenere
aug 31, 2021, 3:04 pm

>173 Crazymamie: hahaha, You've made your dentist a very rich person. Yes to good numbing. My first dentist provided a terrible first experience into the world of numb. He was attempting to inject the novocaine into the gum but he missed. I tasted novocaine in my mouth for days. He retired shortly after that.

>174 Whisper1: Hey Linda! So glad to see you posting again. I'll have to scurry over to your thread for any news you may have.
Thank you for the good wishes, they certainly come in handy. Sending some back to you too. :0)

176scaifea
sep 1, 2021, 7:47 am

Chiming in as a member of the Crown Club, but alas, I only have three.

177Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 1, 2021, 3:41 pm

Wow, Amber! I didn't realize I was in such great company! First progressive glasses and now the Crown Club! I had to laugh, while scheduling my next appt at the dentist, the receptionist had this plaque hanging in her cubicle which said "Life is short. Smile while you still have teeth"

178Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 1, 2021, 4:52 pm

I've finished season three of Virgin River. Wow, Preacher?! He's one of my favorites. Mel? She was in California for just a short time. How could she have had that procedure so quickly?! Not realistic

I'll begin watching The Chair tonight. Looks like a hoot!

So this morning, being September first I called my furnace repair person to set up a winter weatherization. This was 9:30 am, they asked me if I'd be home between 10 and 1pm. Technician was here at 11:15. Now is that speedy service. I'm all clear and can torque up the heat at the first sign of brrrrrr.

179Crazymamie
sep 2, 2021, 11:29 am

Totally agree with your thoughts on Virgin River. Very soapy but there is also eye candy, so...

Hooray for the quick furnace service. Sadly, we will probably not need heat until about December. There is a gas log fireplace in this house, and for the life of me I can't think why. We have only ever turned it on once, and that was just to see what it looked like. Heh.

180Carmenere
sep 2, 2021, 5:15 pm

>179 Crazymamie: I'm guessing, by the end of September I'll have to turn on the furnace....at least for a few minutes in the morning to get the chill out of the air.
We also have a gas log fireplace, we use it only when we don't have power and even then you only feel the warmth when you're within 6 feet of the fire. What I've done for ambiance is insert a standing candelabra inside with candles.

O-H-I-O tonight's kickoff should showcase OSU's new quarterback and see how the team might do this year. I'll be watching and finishing up the last 15% of Cloud Cuckoo Land

181Carmenere
sep 5, 2021, 8:22 am

Yeah, me! I finished Cloud Cuckoo Land and I'll post my thoughts after I submit a review to NetGalley.- Spoiler: I really got into the 2nd half of the book.

Nice cozy morning with a soft drizzle outside, jazz on spotify, hot coffee in my mug, kitties beside me and the two books I'll be reading today, The Gifted School and Harlem Shuffle. aaaah

182msf59
sep 5, 2021, 9:05 am

Morning, Lynda. Happy Sunday. Glad you ended strong with Cuckoo Land. I will anxiously wait for your thoughts on Harlem Shuffle. So many good books coming out. LOVING this cooler weather.

183Crazymamie
sep 5, 2021, 9:45 am

Morning, Lynda! We used our gas log fireplace all the time in Indiana. I like the idea of the candelabra. I love soft white light, so we have loads of twinkle lights about the house set on timers, and it feels like magic when they turn on at night.

Glad that Cloud Cuckoo Land ended on a good note for you - I shall await your thoughts.

184BLBera
sep 5, 2021, 3:03 pm

A good dentist is important, Lynda. My mouth is also full of crowns. I keep thinking if I lived 100 years ago, I wouldn't have any molars left in my mouth.

185Carmenere
sep 5, 2021, 7:27 pm

>182 msf59: Happy Sunday, Mark! I started Harlem Shuffle this afternoon and I'm really into it. Just what I expect from Whitehead.

>183 Crazymamie: Oooh, I love twinkle lights, Mamie, but I've only used them on the deck. My thoughts are just about to be known.

>184 BLBera: Well, that's a good point, Beth. And I'm old enough to remember my grandma and her sisters who had none at all.

186Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 6, 2021, 4:41 pm

double posted

187Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 5, 2021, 7:51 pm

#32 Cloud Cuckoo Land
Anthony Doerr
2021
NetGalley ARC
3 1/2 stars/ 5

The much anticipated novel by the author of All the Light We Cannot See, Anthony Doerr, is just weeks away but truth be told, Cloud Cuckoo Land, is vastly different from Doerr's preceding novel. The novel still contains richly drawn characters under difficult circumstances and vivid locales as did All the Light... but in Cloud Cuckoo Land Doerr has combined genres to offer the reader historical, science, and contemporary fiction rolled into one complex, challenging and sometimes confusing 640 page book.
Cloud Cuckoo Land encompasses multiple time periods, locations and characters making the first half of the book a struggle to enjoy and the richness, depth and backstory of the characters Doerr created became overshadowed by the time leaps.
The reader is transported to Lakeport, Idaho 2020 where the lives of an elderly man and a young man become entwined, Constantinople, in the mid 1400's where Anna first becomes acquainted with an ancient text, which will affect everyone in the novel, and Omeir of Bulgaria who is on his way to invade Anna's village and lastly, into the future aboard a spacecraft where Konstance and her fellow travelers struggle for survival.
It's quite a lot to digest, however, all roads lead to the ancient text in a somewhat leap of artistic license.
Overall, Doerr's work is creative, the writing top notch, the characters are well drawn and the locales, well described. I certainly recommend it for its originality and prose however, the novel seemed a bit sluggish at first, continue on, it is the second half of the book which propelled me forward.

188Carmenere
sep 6, 2021, 12:16 pm

I'm spending this glorious Labor Day doing no labor at all.
It's a bit breezy so it's keeping the temp in the low 70's but the sky is so blue, i have a thermos of chai latte and the neighborhood is quiet so I'm anticipating a good chuck of reading time.
Hope you are all enjoying something to your liking today, too.

189BLBera
sep 6, 2021, 12:56 pm

No labor sounds good, Lynda. Cloud Cuckoo Land sounds good. I am on the library list.

190jnwelch
sep 6, 2021, 2:26 pm

Hi, Lynda. I’m doing much the same - reading on our back deck and drinking coffee. I hope Cloud cuckoo-Land is as good as it sounds. I’m really looking forward to it.

191Carmenere
sep 6, 2021, 4:43 pm

>189 BLBera: It was sooooo relaxing on the deck. I didn't even hear a bird chirp.
I can not wait to see what you think. It's different and totally unexpected.

192Carmenere
sep 6, 2021, 4:45 pm

>190 jnwelch: Hi Joe! Isn't that the best! I loved having no place to go but my backyard. And I'm really looking forward to reading your review. It's good but I don't think it will sit well with everyone. But I'm hoping you like it.

193drneutron
sep 6, 2021, 9:28 pm

>191 Carmenere: We have a front porch that’s sooo peaceful. I’m glad you’ve got a deck that’s peaceful too.

194Carmenere
sep 7, 2021, 1:14 pm

>191 Carmenere: I can't tell you how much I appreciate our deck and I'm happy to read you've got a world away from it all too.

---------
In typical Northeast Ohio fashion, I began the day in leggings and sweatshirt and now I've gone to shorts and a tank top. From 56 to mid 80's. Sigh

I'm missing the chirpchirpchirp of the birds. Where have they all gone?

195Carmenere
sep 8, 2021, 9:05 am

So, has anybody purchased a large item from Wayfair? Bill purchased a couple of smaller things from them a few years ago, but I just now purchased an electric fireplace! It will, I think, provide a little more coziness to the living room which we rarely use because I don't want a television in there. I'm thinking fall....winter holidays will bring people out of the kitchen and wander into the living room.
Now, If I could only get rid of my piano! :0/

196mstrust
sep 8, 2021, 10:16 am

My sister loves Wayfair. She's bought a chair from them and was happy, but I think that's the biggest item. Mostly shoes.
Your re-model is continuing!

197Carmenere
sep 8, 2021, 11:42 am

That's great to know! I feel a little less apprehensive.

Ugh, the re-model has been a non-re-model. My laundry room and bathroom are on hold because the one man operation can't find anyone to hire. I'm giving him a little longer, then I'm going elsewhere.
The wall paper remover/painter guy is so busy, he's not coming til March.
I have a reputable, but I'm afraid expensive kitchen/family room remodeler coming to check out the rooms on Monday.
So, the fireplace is the one thing I can do to make it feel like the ball is rolling.
Ooooo, The tough times in which we live.

198Carmenere
sep 9, 2021, 5:19 pm

Pedal to the metal time. I've got to finish The Gifted School for Monday's book club.
But first breaded zucchini for dinner.

199DeltaQueen50
sep 9, 2021, 9:49 pm

Hi Lynda, summer really doesn't want to let go. We are having some very warm days right now, but luckily the evenings and nights cool right off. I was out on the deck early this morning and there was a definite hint of autumn in the air. I've used Wayfair a few time and alway have had good luck with them. The biggest article was probably a couple of kitchen bar stools which we are very happy with.

200Carmenere
sep 10, 2021, 9:14 am

Hi Judy! Your heat will soon be our heat. We'll be reaching mid 80's into Monday. I'll never disapprove of an 80 degree day but I do love autumn's crispiness and yes, I can feel it in the air, the way the sun is dipping lower and providing less sun on my deck, not to mention the darker mornings and evenings.
Thanks for you Wayfair feedback. The fireplace is arriving tomorrow. I'm really excited.

201Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 11, 2021, 12:20 pm

I've got to say, in reading Harlem Shuffle, I'm learning all about the Hotel Theresa and its importance to Harlem in the 1950's. So far, a really good read.

I want to keep reading but I've got to finish The Gifted School by Monday.

And today.....well.....O H I O!

202Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 11, 2021, 8:20 pm

In anticipation of the Booker shortlist being revealed on Tuesday, I put these books on hold because 1. They are short. 2. They sound good 3. I'm hoping they're put on the shortlist because I probably wouldn't read them otherwise. Seriously, too committed to soooo many other books.

Second place
Cusk, Rachel

Klara and the sun
Ishiguro, Kazuo

No one is talking about this : a novel
Lockwood, Patricia,

The sweetness of water
Harris, Nathan,

Bewilderment : a novel

203Carmenere
sep 13, 2021, 12:47 pm

#32 The Gifted School
Bruce Holsinger
(Library Book Club)
4/5

I rather liked this novel. Holsinger does a great job in demonstrating how a group of parents go to extremes when a new magnet school for gifted children is scheduled to open in the fall. Friendships that were formed about eleven years ago are tested when the selection process becomes cutthroat and truths about their individual lives become known.
It is a fun read and despite the unlikeable characters the reader has a sliver of curiosity as to what will be the outcome.

204Carmenere
sep 13, 2021, 12:50 pm

Ok, now that that's done I can go back to New York and continue reading Harlem Shuffle.

205msf59
sep 13, 2021, 1:48 pm

Hi, Lynda. I am so glad you hear you are loving Harlem Shuffle. Whitehead has been on a serious roll. In regards to the Booker- I really liked Second Place but I seem to be alone with that opinion, here on LT. I have requested A Town Called Solace. I would also like to read The Sweetness of Water, along with Bewilderment.

206Carmenere
sep 14, 2021, 10:58 am

Hey Mark! This is my third novel by Whitehead. He is definitely one of my favorite authors.

The Booker shortlist reveal is going live on Facebook in 2 minutes. I'll keep ya'll up to date. :0)

208figsfromthistle
sep 14, 2021, 8:41 pm

>207 Carmenere: Thanks for the list!

209Carmenere
sep 14, 2021, 8:57 pm

>208 figsfromthistle: You are very welcome. Have you read any of them?

210BLBera
sep 15, 2021, 10:34 am

Thanks for the list, Lynda. I've read two of them. I'm surprised Klara and the Sun was not on the list; it is my favorite of the ones I've read.

211figsfromthistle
sep 15, 2021, 11:05 am

>209 Carmenere: Unfortunately, not yet.

212Carmenere
sep 15, 2021, 12:52 pm

I am back from my big expedition and my temporary crown is in place. I really like this new dentist. He and his hygienist are a good team.

So, I'm going to do some bible study homework and then open the fireplace boxes to see what's all involved. I'm thinking I'll work on it tomorrow as I have nothing else planned for the day.

>210 BLBera: Ya know, Beth, I thought, Ishiguro was a no brainer and pretty much an automatic selection. I guess, the unexpected is what brings us back to the Booker every year.

>211 figsfromthistle: I haven't either, Figs. I've requested all of them from my library so it'll take a little time to receive them. The only one my library does not have is The Fortune Men so I predict that will be the winner. You heard it here first ;0)

213scaifea
sep 16, 2021, 7:33 am

>212 Carmenere: Yay for getting through that first crown appointment! I know from recent experience that it's not terrible, but it *is* long.

214Crazymamie
sep 16, 2021, 7:37 am

Morning, Lynda! Unboxing the fireplace boxes is most exciting - hope it goes quickly and smoothly with no frustrations.

>207 Carmenere: Thanks for this! Of course, I have not read any of those.

215msf59
sep 16, 2021, 7:50 am

Morning, Lynda. Sweet Thursday. I have not read any of the Shortlist but I plan on reading The Fortune Men,Bewilderment & Great Circle.

216Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 16, 2021, 11:24 am

Our cat, Lev, is an honest to goodness pussycat BUT he's also my problem child. When I'm working at my desk he always sneaks up behind me and leaps onto my shoulder. *as he did just now* He's making me paranoid.
Yesterday, I heard a kerrfluffle in the dining room and I find him on top of the china cabinet. I show him a chair to jump on but noooooo, he puts his front paws on the class and propels himself onto the table. *sigh* I can only imagine what goes on when I'm sleeping.

>213 scaifea: It is indeed long, Amber. It's obvious he is a perfectionist so the first mold impression had a bubble in it he did not like, so in goes that impression making device again and thankfully it met his expectations.

>214 Crazymamie: Yes, Mamie, the unboxing is on my agenda today. My brother in law or should I say his wife offered his services if I need them but my dad always said I could fix anything and I'd be able to fix a car if I didn't mind getting my hands dirty. Hopefully, this won't be a messy job.

>215 msf59: Sweeeeet Thursday, Mark! Good luck with your shortlist reading. I think I'll be shortlist scanning. I'm sure November 3rd will be here before I can even do that.

OK, one more cup of coffee and off to work on the fireplace :0)

ETA: Yay! There's an Allen wrench in the box. That's a good sign. I loooove Allen Wrenches!

217mstrust
sep 16, 2021, 1:43 pm

I hope you love your new fireplace!
Mike is going to finish touching up the paint in the den tonight. We've gone from red to a medium sand and that's a huge change.

218Carmenere
sep 16, 2021, 5:28 pm

So far, so good. I got a late start because, kitties being curious as kitties are they were all over the unboxing. Nope, that will no do. So, I decided to wait for the kitties to take their daytime nap and I started to mow the back lawn. But then, I remembered my neighbor works from home now so I came back in - had lunch - and built the fireplace. Really easy! I'll put in the insert in tomorrow. So well packed. I'd definitely buy from Wayfair again.
My fireplace I'm planning on having the walls painted a more khaki shade than what is shown.

Ooooo, I bet your den looks so much larger with the lighter color!

219Carmenere
sep 16, 2021, 7:40 pm

So, a little experiment. Tequila is good in hot chocolate would it be good in cappuccino too? Not bad, it's acceptable.

220scaifea
sep 17, 2021, 6:45 am

>218 Carmenere: Oh, I love the fireplace, Lynda!! And it was smart of you to wait for the cats to start napping...

221Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 17, 2021, 12:11 pm

I like it too. It's going to add coziness to the living room where there was none except for 2 weeks a year when the Christmas tree was up.

I need to install the firebox but the kitties are wide awake.

222Carmenere
sep 17, 2021, 12:15 pm

So, thanks from a tip from Beth, I discovered the National Book Award longlist for fiction.
Here goes:

Cloud Cuckoo Land At least I've read this one :0)
The Love Songs of W.E.B Du Bois
Matrix
Abundance
Zorrie
The Prophets
Intimacies
The Souvenir Museum
Hell of a Book
Bewilderment (also appears on the Booker Shortlist)

223BLBera
sep 17, 2021, 12:39 pm

>222 Carmenere: You're welcome. :)

224Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 24, 2021, 6:25 pm

#33 No One is Talking About This
Patricia Lockwood
Booker Shortlist
2/5

Perhaps the judges of the Booker Prize chose this novel, and I'm using the word novel loosely, for their shortlist because it certainly is a reflection of our current state of being. A state where innumerable humans are caught up in social media and, at times, feel the need to become an active part of it and it's jargon.

As the unnamed protagonist in this book displays, the internet can become all too consuming and drag one into a bottomless pit of opinions and positions.

The book is written as if it were a bunch of tweets and for that reason maybe readers who are apart of the twitter family will find it cohesive and understandable. Others, like myself, who have never found the point of short unexplained tweets will find this book annoying.

225PaulCranswick
sep 25, 2021, 1:37 am

>224 Carmenere: I do think that my review will mirror yours on this book, Lynda. I keep waiting for it to get to the point but am still waiting.

The Booker and Women's Prize judges are obviously smarter than I am as I really cannot see the merit in the book to justify two A stream shortlists.

Have a lovely weekend, Lynda.

226msf59
sep 25, 2021, 8:06 am

Morning, Lynda. Happy Saturday. I am getting ready to start Great Circle. It looks like our football teams will be battling it out tomorrow. The Browns are tough, so my Bears will have their hands full. Enjoy your weekend.

>222 Carmenere: I plan on reading a few of these too, especially the Groff & Powers.

227Carmenere
sep 25, 2021, 12:05 pm

>225 PaulCranswick: Awe, Paul, I'm not sure the judges are smarter than you or I. There's is so much involved in book selection, I can't even begin to fathom what goes on behind the scenes.
I hope your weekend is complete with all you enjoy!

>226 msf59: Howdy, Mark and Happy Saturday greetings to you too! I am going to delve into Great Circle as soon as I'm done with ebay.
Browns and Bears are tied in the standings, it's really anybody's game. However, if OBJ and Mayfield connect it could be Magic for Cleveland.
I'm still on the waiting list for Goff but I will pick up Bewilderment from my library tomorrow.
Enjoy your weekend too :0)

228Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 26, 2021, 8:17 pm

#34 Averno
Louise Glück
2006
3/5

I spotted this book of poetry on Beth's thread and thought I might give it a try. Although, I do not consider myself a fan of this genre, I do like the way Glückk melds the worlds of nature and mythology. Rather a sad read, I think, but I'll look into her other offerings, something more uplifting perhaps.

229Crazymamie
sep 27, 2021, 8:44 am

Morning, Lynda!

>224 Carmenere: Thanks, so much for the warning - that one is not for me.

230Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 27, 2021, 9:40 am



>229 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! Glad to have helped!

231BLBera
sep 27, 2021, 6:50 pm

I'm glad you liked Averno, Lynda. I'm not sure I find any of Glück's poetry happy...

232Crazymamie
sep 28, 2021, 9:30 am

Morning, Lynda! What's happening today?

233Carmenere
Redigerat: sep 29, 2021, 6:38 am

>231 BLBera: Oh my goodness, Beth. I feel so sorry for her.

>232 Crazymamie: Howdy Mamie! Well, today, I took my sister in law along to look at the plans for my kitchen remodel. I hate that they really don't want to talk about $ amount but I've got to have some idea. Right? I've yet to commit but I do like this company.
Then we had lunch at Aladdin's and discussed the info we had just received.
Then, I pulled off english ivy from two trees in my backyard. Surely, English Ivy along with pachysandra and various poisonous vines are all evil.

haha, are you sorry you asked? ;0)

234Carmenere
sep 29, 2021, 6:37 am

Is it hump day already?! The world is spinning way too fast.

Yay me! I'm going to receive an early reviews book. It's Tinderbox: HBO's Ruthless Pursuit of New Frontiers. It sounds interesting and my make a good coffee table book.

235scaifea
sep 29, 2021, 7:42 am

Morning, Lynda!

Oooh, Aladdin's! I wonder if that's the same restaurant as the one in Columbus, just off campus... I did love that one when I was a grad student, but I don't know if it's a chain or not.

236Carmenere
sep 29, 2021, 7:52 am

Happy Wednesday, Amber!
Um, if the Aladdin's in Columbus served Lebanese/American cuisine it could be the same. Everything on the menu looked so good. It really made it difficult to decide.

237scaifea
sep 29, 2021, 7:54 am

>236 Carmenere: Okay, I had to look it up, and I do think it's the same chain (there are, at least, several in the Cleveland area). And yes! The food is amazing!

238Crazymamie
sep 29, 2021, 9:44 am

Morning, Lynda!

>233 Carmenere: That's crazy that they don't want to talk about how much it's going to cost! They should have to give you a quote if they want to earn your business.

And no, I am not sorry I asked. The kitchen stuff and lunch would be very fun. The working outside not so much.

239Carmenere
okt 3, 2021, 11:17 am

Happy Sunday book buddies!

>238 Crazymamie: Ya know, how can one proceed if one does not know the approx cost? Ugh I intend to contact them on Monday and request a ballpark figure for one of the styles they drew up. If they can't level with me now, would they ever?!

So my SIL and I spent a couple of days in PA for the annual Applefest. Always a good time, food, crafters and yeah, you can guess, apples! This coming week I'll be peeling and slicing and baking filling my house with the sweet fragrance of autumn.
BUT first,
1.Browns football
2. Finish Harlem Shuffle I know, "Lynda, Why has it been taking so looooong to finish?!" Let me just say the writing is so quotable it takes a while to get it all down.
3. I have got to re-read Mexican Gothic for Library book club on the 11th. I'm looking forward to it, I liked it the first time around, lets see what I think the second time.
4. I'll crochet some during the game.

240alcottacre
okt 3, 2021, 11:24 am

>239 Carmenere: Hello, Lynda! Sounds like you have a wonderful Sunday planned! I am curious about Harlem Shuffle when you finish it. I loved Whitehead's The Nickel Boys. I still need to get around to reading The Underground Railroad.

241Carmenere
okt 3, 2021, 11:32 am

Good morning, Stasia! So nice to see you!
I've admired Whitehead since I read Sag Harbor many, many years ago and I was also impressed with TUR. Harlem Shuffle is also historical fiction with an interesting angle. I'd send my copy to you if I had one but alas it's a netgalley from Netgalley :0(
I really have to read Nickel Boys one of these days.

242alcottacre
Redigerat: okt 3, 2021, 11:35 am

>241 Carmenere: No worries about sending a book my way these days, Lynda, I am trying to read more from my own library. Besides, I checked and my local library has a copy of Harlem Shuffle :)

243Carmenere
okt 3, 2021, 11:56 am

Yay!

244Carmenere
okt 5, 2021, 1:48 pm

Here's the National Book Awards shortlist for fiction:

Anthony Doerr, “Cloud Cuckoo Land”

Lauren Groff, “Matrix”

Laird Hunt, “Zorrie”

Robert Jones Jr., “The Prophets”

Jason Mott, “Hell of a Book”

That is all. Back to work.

245alcottacre
okt 5, 2021, 4:00 pm

>244 Carmenere: I have Cloud Cuckoo Land home from the library now. Richard said on another thread that he was only giving it 3 stars, so that does not bode well for me. We shall see.

The only other one that I have even heard of is Matrix, which my local library has. It also has the Jones' and Mott books, so I am adding them to my list.

Thanks, Lynda!

246Carmenere
Redigerat: okt 5, 2021, 4:10 pm

>245 alcottacre: Hey Stasia, Ha! I was a bit more generous than Richard. I gave it 3 1/2 stars.

Matrix is waiting for me at the library. Zorrie is in transit and I downloaded Hell of a Book to Kindle

247alcottacre
okt 5, 2021, 4:07 pm

>246 Carmenere: Considering how big the thing is - I have a large print version and it is over 1000 pages - I think my library is going to get it back unread. I have too many other books to read in the meantime!

248Carmenere
okt 5, 2021, 4:12 pm

>246 Carmenere: Yikes! I got my copy thru NetGalley, (yes, they were generous this month,) and I thought it a slow read and the futuristic portion was just Ugh!

249alcottacre
okt 5, 2021, 4:20 pm

>248 Carmenere: OK, Cloud Cuckoo Land can go back to the library tomorrow. I need the walk anyway, lol.

250msf59
Redigerat: okt 6, 2021, 8:31 am

Happy Wednesday, Lynda. Sorry to hear that Cloud Cuckoo Land was a bit lacking. I had been pumped about that one. I hope the Whitehead is making up for that. Anything happening at your feeders?

251Carmenere
okt 6, 2021, 9:09 am

>249 alcottacre: How fortunate you are to be able to walk to your library! Well, I guess I could too but I'd be walking in ditches or the bike lane for lack of sidewalks.

>250 msf59: Hey Mark, happy Wednesday. I really expected more from CCL, especially because he grew up in NE Ohio, I really wanted to give him higher marks but another All the Light We Cannot See was not to be.
I finished Harlem Shuffle last night. I'll put up a little something about it later today.

252Carmenere
okt 6, 2021, 7:24 pm

#35 Harlem Shuffle
Colson Whitehead
4.5/5
NetGalley

Harlem Shuffle is a mix of historical fiction and backstreet dealings in mid 20th century Harlem.
Ray Carney is a slightly bent but not crooked furniture salesman who is trying to make a good life for his family however his Cousin Freddie has a way of inviting mayhem into his life.
The novel is broken down into three sections indicating the three jobs Carney gets involved in starting with the Hotel Theresa a Harlem mainstay for African Americans.
I thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspects of the novel which had me Googling to find out more.
The characters, as is usual for Whitehead, are distinctive and entertaining.
Whitehead's prose is topnotch and the novel itself has so many terrific quotes you'll be taking the time to write them down.
Read this one slowly and savour it's quality.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an Advanced Copy of this splendid novel.

253alcottacre
okt 6, 2021, 7:31 pm

>251 Carmenere: Yes, the local library is only about 3/4 of a mile from my house, so it is an easy walk. I basically walk over there every morning.

>252 Carmenere: Yep, definitely looking out for that one! Thanks for the recommendation, Lynda!

254Carmenere
okt 7, 2021, 9:23 am

>253 alcottacre: You're welcome, Stasia. I hope you enjoy it too.

255BLBera
okt 13, 2021, 12:39 pm

I'm looking forward to Harlem Shuffle, Lynda. My turn should come soon.

256Carmenere
okt 14, 2021, 12:42 pm

>255 BLBera: I hope you enjoy it, Beth!

257BLBera
okt 17, 2021, 10:55 am

I got a copy, Lynda! It will be my next read.

258Carmenere
okt 17, 2021, 1:14 pm

>257 BLBera: Yay! I can't wait to see what you think!

259Carmenere
okt 21, 2021, 1:43 pm

#36 The Return of the God Hypothesis
Stephen C Meyer
e-ARC
NetGalley
This was a most difficult book to read but I found the correlation between the creation of the universe and explanations of its existence through scientific explanations and faith based thought extremely interesting.
The book, though some will think slow and divisive, is actually something to ponder.
Even science itself has begun to believe that there's more to the creation than mathematical formulas.
Certainly, it is a book to be read and reread.
Thank you NetGalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review the e-ARC. It took much longer than anticipated, it's quite deep.

260Carmenere
okt 21, 2021, 1:45 pm

I've finished Squid Game on Netflix and now I'm on the Second Season of Shtisel. This is why I don't have time to read. Ok, that and the fact I've had tons of yard work.

261Carmenere
Redigerat: okt 25, 2021, 12:53 pm

Thank goodness for rainy days. My plan is to finish up 3rd season of Shtisel then begin reading library book club selection The Martian Chronicles. One of those books I should've read but never appealed to me. We'll see if I've been mistaken all these years.

Yikes! I have two more days of prime. Bohemian Rhapsody and Yesterday are on my to do list too.

262mstrust
okt 25, 2021, 2:23 pm

I finished Squid Game too. Wow, that was tense!

263alcottacre
okt 25, 2021, 2:38 pm

>261 Carmenere: I get to dodge an incoming BB for The Martian Chronicles as I read it years ago. Whew!

Happy Monday, Lynda!

264Carmenere
okt 25, 2021, 6:51 pm

>262 mstrust: For sure! Looks like we'll have a Season 2 at some point. Seems to me, it would be pretty difficult to recapture the intensity that the 1st season provided but we'll see.

>263 alcottacre: Happy Monday, Stasia! I'm thinking everyone has read The Martian Chronicles except me. Glad you were able to dodge this one.
Den här diskussionen fortsatte här: Lynda(Carmenere)'s Book Resort - 3