Mamie's 2017 Madness (Page 4)

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snail's pace

Books Read in January:
1. Rivers of London: Volume 1: Body Work by Ben Aaronovitch, art by Lee Sullivan (3.75 stars), GN - police procedural, off my shelves
2. The Spy Who Came in From the Cold by John LeCarré (5 stars), paperback/audio combo, espionage, off my shelves
3. The Chisellers by Brendan O'Carroll (4 stars), library paperback, historical fiction/humor - series recommended by Nancy
4. The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner (5 stars), ebook, off my shelves - series recommended by Jenn
5. The Paper Menagerie by Ken Liu (4.5 stars), ebook, short story collection, off my shelves - recommended by Mark
6. Talking to the Dead by Harry Bingham (3.75 stars), ebook, off my shelves, police procedural - series recommended by Julia and Joe and Mary
7. Nutshell by Ian McEwan (5 stars), 2017 acquired audiobook, literary fiction - Katie's Dirty Dozen
8. Summer Knight by Jim Butcher (4 stars), audiobook, urban fantasy, off my shelves - Roberta said to keep going
9. The End of the Affair by Graham Greene (4 stars), audiobook, literary fiction, off my shelves
10. Get Shorty by Elmore Leonard (4.25 stars), ebook, crime fiction, off my shelves
11. Going After Cacciato by Tim O'Brien (4 stars), library paperback, literary fiction/Vietnam

My name is Mamie. 49. Mother of four. Happily married. I am an Indiana transplant currently residing in Georgia. I like to wax poetic about the pecan trees and complain about the heat. I miss winter. I believe in the power of kindness and shared laughter. I heartily embrace wine, snark, and shenanigans; I like to think of them as my posse.

This is my sixth year in the 75ers group. I will read almost anything (Um…NOT self-help), but I tend to lean towards crime fiction, space opera, and historical fiction. I have a soft spot for quirky characters and magical realism.
This group has greatly increased my reading of truth - I love memoirs, travel writing and narrative non-fiction. I am greatly looking forward to another reading year spent amidst the chaos of the 75.

I am planning on walking the cat this year. That is, I am just going to go where my reading takes me. I am not committing to any challenges except for Ellen’s Reread Challenge, which is a perfect match for me because every year I reread multiple books. I love to reread - it’s like getting together with old friends. I like the comfort of knowing where I am going and the surprise of discovering new truths in a familiar landscape.

So some thoughts I have:

It would be nice to read some of the hundreds of books I have sitting on my shelves - especially the authors that I have multiple standalone books by, such as Elmore Leonard, Philip K. Dick, and George Orwell

I want to keep going on some of the series I focused on this past year as well as some that I have neglected for a while: Harry Bosch, Harry Hole, Inspector Montalbano, Bruno Courrèges, Barsetshire, the Vorkosigan Saga, The Others, Sebastian St. Cyr, ...

I would like to eventually read all of the books mentioned in The English Patient, starting with The Histories by Herodotus

Usually I list my print and ebook purchases, but I thought it might be fun to follow my audiobook purchases instead this year. My husband always gets me the 24 credit Audible membership for Christmas, so…

1. Nutshell by Ian McEwan, narrated by Rory Kinnear, Katie's Dirty Dozen 2016
2. The Looking-Glass War by John LeCarré, narrated by Michael Jayston
3. Brat Farrar by Josephine Tey, narrated by Carole Boyd - $2.95 Daily Deal

Katie’s Dirty Dozen - That’s right, folks, KAK’s reserved spot is back for a third year, let’s see what she gets me with this time

1.

Every year, LT is an embarrassment of riches for me. I like to keep track of who recommends what and any other pertinent info that lands a book on WL.

1. Winter by Christopher Nicholson - read Suz's review on her thread, it was one of her top reads from last year
2. News of the World by Paulette Jiles - because Mark said so!
3. The Return: Fathers, Sons, and Between by Hisham Matar - memoir -read Rhonda's review on her thread
4. Those Who Hunt the Night by Barbara Hambly - read Roni's blurb on her thread about this series
5. Knots and Crosses by Ian Rankin - series recommended by Deborah - read her review of the third book on her thread
6. The Western Lit Survival Kit by Sandra Newman - Joe says this is delightful
7. The Inquisitor's Tale, Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz - read Anne's review on her thread
8. A World of Love by Elizabeth Bowen - read Meg's review on her thread
9. Under Another Sky by Charlotte Higgins - read Susan's review on her thread, and she said that she heard about it on Jennifer's (inge87) thread
10. He Wants by Alison Moore - read Nancy's review on her thread
11. A Robot in the Garden by Deborah Install - read Caro's review on her thread
12. Full Dark House by Christopher Fowler - read Robin's review of the 13th book in this series
13. A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallaro - read Faith's review on her thread
14. Moonglow by Michael Chabon - Charlotte talking about reading this on her thread has made me add it to the list, and I was really trying not to...
15. The Assault by Henry Mulisch - read Anita's review on her thread
16. India: A Portrait by Patrick French - read Erik's review on his thread - he says a good look at modern day India
17. The Watcher by Ross Armstrong - read Charlotte's review on her thread

This should do it - next one's yours!

Happy new thread, Mamie!

ETA: Whew! I am almost never first! Yay :-)

I love that picture up top! Happy new thread, Mamie!

>8 susanj67: Thank you, Susan! Nicely done with the first placing.

>9 katiekrug: Me, too, Katie! And thank you.

Happy new thread, Mamie. Great topper photo - that are almost the same size.

Thanks, Meg! Yep - but I bet the dog weighs a lot more.

Great thread topper! So sweet

Thank you, Chelle!

Happy new thread. Just finished Full Dark House. As long as you don't mind starting another series, I think you'll like it!

Happy new one, Mamie.

Thanks, Marianne! Full Dark House is already on the list in >6 Crazymamie:, as Robin's review of the 13th (YIKES!) book in the series made it sound like something I'd like. SO you are right on target. I never mind starting a new series, so keep the recommendations coming, please.

Howdy Mamie! Thanks for my regular spot.

>15 michigantrumpet: & >17 Crazymamie: I have the first 3 in this series but I haven't started it yet. 13 you say? Sounds like a candidate for a future Reading Project perhaps.

Happy New Thread, Mamie!

What a beautiful topper - the photo quality is remarkable.

>6 Crazymamie: The Sandra Newman book I heartily recommend is The Western Lit Survival Kit. The title you have may be for a different book. I'd like to have a beer with her some day.

Happy thread!

>18 luvamystery65: Howdy, Roberta! You're welcome.

>19 luvamystery65: Right. 13 so far.

>20 jnwelch: Thank you, Joe! Glad you like the topper. Okay. Thanks - I was going to ask about the title because I can never get the touchstone. I'll fix it here in a minute.

>21 RebaRelishesReading: Thank you, Reba!

Happy new thread, Mamie!

Thanks, Amber!

Happy #4, Mamie!!

Thanks, Lynda!

Happy new thread, Mamie!
>1 Crazymamie: Everly little kid should have a friend like that :-)

Good afternoon, dearie! *hugs*

Happy new thread!

>27 FAMeulstee: Thank you, Anita! I agree - dogs are so great.

>28 Morphidae: Good afternoon, dear Morphy! *hugs back*

>29 drneutron: Thank you, Jim!

Happy new thread Mamie. Love the big dog in the topper.

Thank you, Charlotte! Glad you love the topper.

hullo, Mame (for you shall always be affectionately "Mame" to me). just dropped by to cast a pearl knowing it will not be met as by swine:

I'm not trying to pick a quarrel, sir. Hell no. I'm just breaking under the strain of trying to figure out a third way of crossing my legs.

Archie Goodwin The league of frightened men, 1935.

i stumbled on it while looking for something else, viz. Nothing is more admirable than the fortitude with which millionaires tolerate the disadvantages of their wealth. our little Nero in The red box.

wonderful, but vast, image here of the gorgeous illustration for the Red Box that appeared in serialization in American Magazine in 1936.

and now i flit, i float, i fleetly flee, i fly. mwah mwah mwah.

Have a good 'un, m'dear.

Ellie! Where have you been young lady?! You are reminding me how much I love Archie Goodwin and Nero - must get back to that series, which I am reading completely out of order. (Please don't tell Susan) I adore that illustration from The Red Box - how fabulous!

*sings back " The sun has gone to bed, and so must I..."

Thanks for those good wishes and the entertainment that any post from you is sure to supply.

Happy new thread, Mamie!

Did you finish Get Shorty yet? What is your favorite Leonard?

Thanks, Brodie! I am still working on Get Shorty - it's my read during the night when I can't sleep book. My favorite so far is Pronto.

Hi Mamie, way back when I was in school I remember the teacher would often show the class an interesting picture and then have us write a story that would fit the image. Looking at your topper, I can imagine that child and dog are waiting for a loved one to arrive home, perhaps a father who's been off serving in the military or a mother who's been away nursing a sick relative. Anyway, happy new thread!

Happy New Thread, Mamie! The threads are still rockin', my friend! I LOVE when the enthusiasm is at such a high pitch.

Hope those current reads are treating you swell.

>36 Crazymamie: Maximum Bob was my first Leonard. It's par for course with despicably likable criminals and a not so likable Jurist. ;-)

Welcome to the four thread club, Mamie. xx

Happy New Thread, Mamie! My, you've been keeping busy. I've been keeping up with you (barely) as far as reading books is concerned at least, although not in threads.

Just plunking a cushion down in the corner. I'll be back later...

Happy new one, Mamie. I love the topper.

Already? 4!! Congrats.

Happy 4, Mamie!

Morning, Mamie! I love the topper! That dog is a bit bigger than Adrian, I think. Or the child is very small.

>37 DeltaQueen50: Hello, Judy! Writing prompts! That takes me back. I don't remember being shown a picture, but I do remember being given a paragraph and then we had to finish the story. The picture sounds like more fun. And thank you!

>38 msf59: Thanks, Mark! The threads are still rocking - I keep waiting for them to slow down.

All of my current books are good ones, so I cannot complain.

>39 brodiew2: I have not read that one yet, Brodie.

>40 PaulCranswick: Thank you, Paul!

>41 ronincats: Thanks, Roni! I am hoping to knock out a few more books before we run out of January. If I would just stop picking up new books to read and focus on what I already have going, then I could probably finish up everything I have on tap. Like that's ever going to happen. HA!

>42 nittnut: Hello, Jenn! There is always a spot here for you.

>43 BLBera: Thank you, Beth! Glad the topper is a hit.

>44 Berly: Aw, shucks! Balloons! Thanks, Kim!

>45 DianaNL: Thank you, Diana!

>46 cbl_tn: Morning, Carrie! So happy you love the topper. And yes, I think that dog might be just a tad bigger than Adrian.

I was early (>16 Ameise1:) for once.

Happy Wednesday, Mamie.

Oh, Barbara! I'm so sorry that I missed you. My apologies. Happy Wednesday to you!

Hi, Mamie! Another late check in for me. Still damp and chilly here, but better than snow and deep freeze.

Have you read Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World? This may be the trippiest Murakami, I have read but I am totally committed.

Okay, Mark. Are you sitting down? Don't panic, but the only Murakami I have read is IQ84, which I really liked. I do have Kafka on the Shore in the stacks. Remember to breathe deeply. In and out...that's it...

Hyper-ventilating... but now that you mention it...

Hey, at least you have 1Q84 under your belt. It is one of my favorites. I hope you can make room for Kafka. It still remains my favorite.

*hands Mark a paper bag* Don't worry, I will get to more Murakami. It's gonna be fine.

>52 Crazymamie: Same!!! But I have two or three others waiting in the wings....

>53 msf59: Breathe in...breathe out...!

*grin*

>52 Crazymamie: & >55 Berly: You are each one ahead of me.

It's okay Mark! I'm a trained nurse. I know just who to call.

^I think I am better now!

>57 luvamystery65: A trained nurse, in Beerbulance? I think I am in love...

>57 luvamystery65: That made me snort my wine, Roberta! Dnn't worry, Mark, the Beerbulance is here!!

>58 msf59: There, there. *pat, pat* You're looking good, Mark. No! Don't look! Just take my word for it.

>55 Berly: >57 luvamystery65: Come on Kimmers & Ro! READ more Murakami! Have I ever steered you wrong? Okay...forget that.

Good afternoon, Mamie! I hope all is well with you.

I'm heading over to Half Price books after work. I'm selling some homeschooling materials we no longer need. Quandary: buy desired next reads or use money for gas to get home?

What will it do to Mark to know that I have never read a Murakami?

>59 msf59: Roberta pulls out all the stops for you, my friend!

>63 Crazymamie: I think I am in a dream state...

>61 msf59: Ha! Right, try to focus on the positive...

>62 brodiew2: Afternoon, Brodie. All is well except for Mark's little episode. Looks like he's coming around, though.

Tough one, but I am going to have to go with gas to get home.

>64 msf59: I think you should go with it, Mark.

>58 msf59: ROFL

>58 msf59: Mark those home remedies are okay in a minor crisis. I am trained to bring in the professionals. You're welcome. ;-)

Always let your friends help you. Don't become this person. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_tUih4-rl8

Oh my that topper photo is fabulous!

>67 Berly: I know, right?!

>68 luvamystery65: Oh, dear! MARK! Don't let that be you! Listen to Roberta!

>69 SuziQoregon: Thank you, Juli!

>68 luvamystery65: OMG! That is too funny! Come on, Grandma just wanted a beer, for crying out loud!

>57 luvamystery65: I think some would prefer this one:

Have a good evening, Mamie!



Time for me to start eating!

>72 Morphidae: That would be me Morphy! Cheers!

Oh gosh, I LOVE that thread topper. SO sweet!!!!

Happy New Thread.

Morning, Mamie!

I might need to shock Mark by saying I made it about a 1/3rd through a Murakami and couldn't continue.

However, I did gift Norwegian Wood to my cousin for Christmas, so that make the blow slightly less bitter?

>71 msf59: *belly laugh*

>72 Morphidae: I would, Morphy.

>73 brodiew2: Thank you, Brodie - LOVE Auntie Mame, and that is one of my favorite quotes from the film. I need to read the book - I have it in the stacks but haven't gotten to it yet. And yes, time for you to start eating.

>74 luvamystery65: Me, too, Roberta!

>75 EBT1002: Thank you, Ellen. Glad you love the topper.

>76 Carmenere: Morning, Lynda!

>77 lunacat: Which Murakami did you try, Jenny? And yes, I think the gifting takes away some of the sting for poor Mark.

>79 Crazymamie: Hmm......excellent question. I think it was The Wind Up Bird Chronicle (having read the description again, it definitely was).

Morning, Mamie!

I have yet to read a Murakami. Which one should I start with? Wasn't IQ84 like a gazzillion pages long?

Morning Crazy!! Maybe we should have a Murakami group read? In Mark's honor? LOL

^I always recommend starting with After the Quake, Chelle. A short collection of short stories that will give you the flavor of his writing. A lot of people suggest starting with Norwegian Wood.

>80 lunacat: The Windup Bird Chronicle is one of his most challenging and most rewarding, Jenny. Not a starter Murakami, IMO.

Sweet Thursday, Mamie! I love all his books. His NF Underground: The Tokyo Gas Attack is really good, too.

Good morning, Mamie!

>52 Crazymamie: Shhhhh. You have read one more Murakami than I have.

Actually it sounds like there are several of us sitting in the time-out bench together.

>84 jnwelch: Thanks, Joe. I've added After the Quake to the never-ending wishlist.

>80 lunacat: My next try will be Kafka on the Shore because it is already in the stacks.

>81 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

>82 ChelleBearss: You should ask Mark or Joe, Chelle, because I have only read the one. And yes, it is exactly a gazillion pages long - but ti was very good.

>83 Berly: Morning, Kim! I was just over at your place. That sounds like fun, and you know Mark would be thrilled!!

>84 jnwelch: And here you are, Joe. I was thinking that you or Mark would be a better source on Murakami. Making a note of both of those for future reference.

Sweet Thursday to you! And another - I need to start a list.

>85 streamsong: Morning, Janet! Oh, dear...the time-out bench. Perhaps we could get a time-out sofa instead?

>87 Crazymamie: OK, but we'll need a bunch of them. I'm not sharing mine.

My favorite Crazy Mamie is the one with Lucille Ball. It's the one I grew up with and she reminded me so much of my grandma.

>88 streamsong: Sounds good, Janet. Or we could line up a bunch of comfy chairs out on the deck - it's balmy here gain today.

>89 Morphidae: That was the first one I saw, Morphy, so I love that one. The Rosalind Russell is also excellent, though.

Morning, Mamie. I love love love your thread topper (she says at post #91). Will never be able to keep up to this group, LOL.

Hello, Nancy! SO happy you love the thread topper! I am also having trouble keeping up with the group.

>84 jnwelch: >86 Crazymamie: Ok I've got a hold on Norwegian Wood. My library doesn't have an ebook for After the Quake. It does have Kafka on the Shore which I've been people talking about before.

That was fast, Chelle! I know that both Mark and Joe liked Kafka on the Shore, and that's the one I have in the stacks.

Good morning, Mamie!

Hey there, Brodie!

I did have Norwegian Wood as I found it in a charity shop, but as I said, I gave it to my cousin for Christmas as I felt he'd better appreciate it. I think the only one I'd be inclined to try is After the Quake but as it's £4.99 even on Kindle and there are plenty of other books I know I'd love for that price.......

I might give him a go again at some point in the future but I don't feel too bad not doing so for now. At least I tried one!

I like to keep an eye on the Kindle deals throughout the year, Jenny, and then if I see one by an author that we have been talking about like this, I figure it's a sign. Heh.

But you are so right about not feeling badly about it - there are so many books out there, and not every author is for every person.

Sweet Thursday, Mamie! Late check in, but I finally stumbled in.

Love all the Murakami chatter! And hooray for a Murakami Group Read! We may need something like this, just to get folks on board.

I promise you, he is worth it.

Hello, Mark! Thanks for checking in! I think a Murakami group read would be fun - I have only read the one by him, but I liked it.

>89 Morphidae: >90 Crazymamie:

LOL! Did you see what I wrote? LMAO.

I meant AUNTIE MAME not Crazy Mamie.

I liked the Rosalind Russell one, too, but the Lucille Ball one I loved and will always have a special place in my heart.

My grandma and I used to watch it all the time. She had the personality of Auntie Mame and just look at her.

Grandma & I


Grandma & Mom (20-something years later)

>101 Morphidae: I knew what you meant, Morphy! Oh! Your grandma does look like she was a lot of fun. I love that photo of the two of you! Thanks for sharing!

Hi. I've just been quietly reading on my cushion, but I had to de-lurk and give some love to Auntie Mame. :)

What a polite guest you are, Jenn. And yes, hooray for Auntie Mame!

>48 Crazymamie: If I would just stop picking up new books to read and focus on what I already have going, then I could probably finish up everything I have on tap. I keep on telling myself that, Mamie, but I just won't listen.

>72 Morphidae: I vote for the winebulance!

Yep. Me, too, Meg.

Woot woot! Happy Friday, Mamie!

"I finished my business and hung up, then went into the living room and relaxed on the sofa with a beer to watch a video of Humphrey Bogart's Key Largo. I love Lauren Bacall in Key Largo. Of course, I love Bacall in The Big Sleep too, but in Key Largo she's practically allegorical."

^Hard-Boiled Wonderland

^Obviously I thought of my pal Mamie, when I read this passage. Smiles...

Morning Mamie! Happy Friday!

>107 Carmenere: I concur, Lynda! HELLO, Friday!

>108 msf59: Well, now I have to read that one. I adore Key Largo. And it made you think of me - I'm touched!

Morning, Mark! Happy Friday to you, my friend!

Murakami name drops classic films, in some of his books, along with literature, beer, jazz and coffee. No wonder, I adore him.

Don't forget the cats.

Well I finally caught back up, after being some 160 posts behind. I might need one of those time-out sofas. I might just take a nap in the corner now. Happy *very belated* new thread mom. Good morning and happy Friday.

Thank you, Birdy! Here you go:

>111 Crazymamie: Duh!! Leave it to me, to forget the most obvious.

*grin*

Just letting everyone know that one of the books in today's Kindle Daily Deal is The Unwinding - $2.99

>113 Crazymamie: Oh, thank goodness. I'm glad I can always count on you.

Yep. You know it.

>113 Crazymamie: Move over on that couch, Birdy. I am still exhausted after catching up with a thread and a half last night!

Happy Friday, Mamie!

Ha! I'm sure Birdy will share, Meg. Happy Friday to you!

>119 Familyhistorian: Alright I'll just curl up of half of it.

Morning, Mamie!

>121 thearlybirdy: I knew you'd share!

>122 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

Good morning, Mamie! I hope all is well with you.

We have a few sun breaks this morning. the rain has been persistent. Not complaining, though. California and Nevada, even Oregon are taking a weather related beating!

Thanks for the heads up, Mamie. I picked up The Unwinding for my Kindle. Rainy morning here, second day in a row and we have a couple more days coming. Good day to putter around the house. With the television OFF.

Happy Friday, Mamie!

Kafka on the Shore is my favorite of his, but it probably wouldn't be the best starter book for a lot of folks. It is bizarre (surprise!) and great.

>124 brodiew2: Hello, Brodie! All is well. The sun has finally broken through here, too, although more rain is in the forecast. I don't mind the rain, so I am hoping we get it.

>125 ronincats: You're welcome, Roni. We are enjoying a brief moment of sunshine, but rain is predicted for all through the weekend here. Seems fitting. Our tv is also OFF.

>126 jnwelch: Happy Friday, Joe! You probably also wouldn't recommend starting with IQ84, I am guessing. Ha! too late to save me. And actually, I loved it. But then, I am fine with tripy.

Friday! Svooch over everyone, I'm heading for the couch up there with a beverage...

ETA or even scooch, but I like svooch better...

>128 charl08: Sing it, sister! *motions to Birdy to svooch over*

>121 thearlybirdy: Thanks, Birdy. I could use the rest. Hmm, it's getting crowded. >128 charl08: Are you bringing enough beverages to share?

Happy weekend, Mamie.

I can see it is getting cosy over here with all the ladies holed up and svooched onto various chaises longues.

Not sure that you'll give up any space and I would probably take up too much surface area so I will wish all sitting comfortably at the Pecan Paradisio this weekend, a wonderful time.

Hi Mamie! I hope you're having a relaxing weekend.

Today would be my Dad's 91st birthday, if he were still with us. He would request jellyroll and black coffee. I can picture him in my head, sitting in his favorite chair in the kitchen of the house I grew up in. He had a wicked sense of humor, a sharp wit, and arms that felt like home. He is greatly missed.

Happy celebration of your dad's memory, Mamie. He must have been an amazing father to earn such loving affection from someone as wonderful as you. Big hugs, lady.

>134 Crazymamie: arms that felt like home

What a wonderful tribute, Mamie. Hugs.

>130 Familyhistorian: You never have to worry about a lack of beverages at the Pecan Paradisio, Meg - we are always fully stocked.

>131 Ameise1: Thank you, Barbara - happy weekend to you, too!

>132 PaulCranswick: No worries, Paul - we can always pull up another sofa. There is always room for one more here. And thanks for those weekend wishes!

>134 Crazymamie: Lovely photo, Mamie, and lovely memories.

>134 Crazymamie: - Ah, that's lovely, Mamie. Not as good but (((hugs))) to you.

>133 cbl_tn: Morning, Carrie! So far so good with the relaxing weekend. No big plans except for watching the football tomorrow. I am thinking Mexican for dinner tonight and perhaps baked potato bar for tomorrow.

>135 scaifea: Thank you, Amber! I thank you for those kind words - I totally lucked out in the Dad department - he was full of fabulous. Hugs back to you.

>136 PaulCranswick: Thank you, Paul. Hugs back.

>138 cbl_tn: Thanks, Carrie! He left me a wealth of really great memories.

>139 katiekrug: Thank you, Katie! And thanks for those hugs - hugs back, my friend.

>134 Crazymamie: Love x million that wonderful picture of your Dad!

Wishing you a happy weekend!

>142 michigantrumpet: Thank you, Marianne! And that looks like a lovely place to settle in for a bit - don't mind if I do!

Happy Saturday, Mamie!

>134 Crazymamie: Wonderful photo. I can imagine you really miss him.

Happy Saturday, Joe! Glad you like the photo - I ache with missing him sometimes. He was just that dear. But I am so very thankful for all the years I had with him and for all the memories stashed away in my heart.

Happy birthday to Papa Crazymamie. We're sure grateful that he did such a great job raising you and filling you with love and kindness. I wish he could see you here now, queen of your LT dominion! Will you be doing anything special to celebrate.

Thank you, Julia! And what a sweet and thoughtful post. That means a lot to me. We will be watching an old movie - that was our thing, watching old movies together. We have not chosen which one yet, but I am leaning towards The Big Sleep - we both really loved that one.

>194 lunacat: LOVE that photo!

Morning Mamie! Happy Saturday! Ooh, The Big Sleep. Fine choice.

>142 michigantrumpet: Thanks for bringing the extra couch! Don't mind if I do. : )

>127 Crazymamie: I started with 1Q84 also and loved it!

I am glad you have such wonderful memories of your Dad. I think you were a lucky girl.

>148 msf59: Thanks, Mark! Happy Saturday to you! I am very excited about the movie tonight - one of my all time favorites.

>149 Berly: Marianne is very thoughtful isn't she?!

So funny that we both started with such a big Murakami, Kim. And you are so right - I was a very lucky girl.

Happy Dadiversary! I love the photo. So sweet. I'm blessed to still have my Dad around, but it was a bit of a shock to come home after 3 years away and see how much he's aged. I need to make sure and spend as much time as I can with him, as long as he's here. Thanks for sharing and reminding me of how special Dad's can be. :)

>151 msf59: OH, how I LOVE that, Mark!!

>152 nittnut: Thank you, Jenn! Glad you love the photo. And yes, soak up every moment you can with those you love. And remember to ask questions - I think of so many things I wish I had asked my Dad, and now it is too late.

Happy Birthday to your dad. Something popped up on my FB the other day, about a person who was really upset because it was her (deceased) Mom's birthday. She came home to find her partner had made a cake complete with a candle. When asked why, he said "Just because she died doesn't mean we can't celebrate that she lived". I'm going to try and remember that when my own dad's birthday (who died when I was a child) comes around again, as well as the other people I miss so painfully.

So..........I hope you've celebrated his life in style. I know how hard it is to miss your Dad. But give him a raised glass all the same.

Lovely way to remember your dad. Great photo!

>154 lunacat: Thank you, Jenny! Yep - I totally agree with that thinking. We have a special day on my Dad's birthday but also on his death day because that one is really hard for me. I feel like I celebrate my Dad every day because he is so much a part of the fabric of who I am, but it's good to have a physical moment with my family, so that they can also celebrate who he was and what he brought to this earth. I cannot make any more tangible memories with him, but I can make tangible memories of him.

We are just about to kick off our memory - we are getting Mexican from a favorite restaurant, brining it home and eating it together while we watch The Big Sleep. My Dad and I shared a love of old movies in general and of Humphrey Bogart in particular. Hw would smile big that we are watching it in his honor.

>155 ChelleBearss: Thank you, Chelle. Glad you enjoyed the photo.

I hope you enjoy your evening of remembering your dad, Mamie. My grandmother died three years ago today so this week has been rather melancholy for me. But I know she'd be smiling to see me starting a Christmas stocking for my coming nephew using one of the patterns her mom saved from a craft magazine.

Thank you, Mary! I love that you are making a stocking for the coming nephew using a pattern saved by your great grandma - how cool is that?! I'm sure that would make her smile BIG. Keeping you in my thoughts as you remember your grandma. I always have a hard time with the entire week of my Dad's death date.

Beautiful photo of your dad. Grief never really goes away. Sometimes I want my mother so much that I start dreaming about her and when I wake up, I think she's here and she died in 1999.

All the hatches battened down at the Paradisio?

>159 cammykitty: Hello, Katie! Welcome to my thread! And thank you - so true that grief never goes away. It's so hard when dreams are that real - it's a gift, and yet it can also be heartbreaking. I dream about my Dad all the time, and in my dreams he still smokes, which he gave up many years before he died, and he can see. So surreal.

>160 dragonaria: Yes, ma'am. Hello, Kimberly! It stormed here for hours last night, with tons of lightening - it was like a disco, no joke. I've never seen anything like it that lasted that long. Luckily, this morning was overcast but dry, so we squeezed in a walk - just in time, too, because here comes the rain again.

I am so glad you are still making memories of your dad. How precious.

After more than 10 years apart, my mom has sworn to me that she will come visit me this year, some how. I'm so happy. I'm hoping that she can make it work. I miss her. I mean, we talk together on the phone at least once a week, if not more, but it's not the same.

I hate that moment you wake up from a dream about someone who is no longer around. It's like a punch to the gut. I often find it so upsetting that I can't decide if I'd rather never dream of him at all. The trouble is, a lot of my dreams of people are opening doors and discovering it was all a mistake and they're not really dead. I'm so so happy, and then when I wake up, it's not true. Or in the dream, they go again and the grief is intense in the dream and in waking.

Of course, there is also the abject relief when you wake up from a nightmare and realise it's not real. The swings and roundabouts of life.

I hope you had a lovely day making memories.

Morning, Mamie!

>162 Morphidae: It's important to me to honor his memory, Morphy, and I think the best way to do that is to actively remember who he was and how his presence in my life has made me the person I am today. I don't want to loose the little stories because I didn't tell them to anyone.

I hope that your mom honors her promise - I'll be praying for that and keeping you both in my thoughts.

>163 lunacat: It is, Jenny, but it is also a gift because in our dreams we get to be with them again. On the other hand, I have never had a dream where the death was a mistake, and so they are really alive - that would be devastating to awake to the fact that it was not real. The dream world is so tricky - what bothers me is when you dream about something or someone that you haven't even thought about in years, and then suddenly there it is. Not necessarily upsetting, but it always feels so weird. I guess everything that you have experienced in life is in there somewhere, on the back burner.

And thank you - we had a really lovely evening.

>164 scaifea: Morning, Amber!

Morning Mamie! Happy Sunday! We have friends coming over later for dinner and football viewing. I hope to squeeze in some reading beforehand. Enjoy your day.

Morning, Mark! Happy Sunday! We will also be eating and watching football today. And I am hoping to also squeeze in reading - I started A Gentleman in Moscow last night, and I am utterly charmed by it.

>134 Crazymamie: What a beautiful photo and tribute to your Dad! I miss mine, too. His birthday is next Sunday.

>151 msf59: Love that so much, I'm going to steal it!

>154 lunacat: That is so lovely, Jenny! Cake is off my diet list, but I'll definitely be lighting a candle.

Happy Sunday, Mamie. Just to let you know you are past 1,000 posts already - this is #1,008

Thank you, Janet! Do you do anything to celebrate your Dad's birthday?

I loved the shenanigans image, too - I might have to use it as a thread topper.

>170 PaulCranswick: Happy Sunday, Paul! And thank you for those up to date stats.

>171 Crazymamie: Usually I make a donation each year for a cause he was interested in. For Dad, it's usually Trout Unlimited as he was a dedicated flyfisherman. I fished, camped and hiked with him. I'm sure a lot of my love for the outdoors came through him.

That is such a great idea!

Hooray for the Count, Mamie! This just made my morning. I expect you will fall hard for him. He is such a wonderful character.

I am really loving the book, Mark. The writing is wonderful and the story is very engaging. I need to take the time to write up some reviews, as I have finished:

9. The End of the Affair by Graham Greene (4 stars), audiobook, literary fiction, off my shelves
10. Get Shorty by Elmore Leonard (4.25 stars), ebook, crime fiction, off my shelves
11. Going After Cacciato by Tim O'Brien (4 stars), library paperback, literary fiction/Vietnam

>165 Crazymamie: I've never known her to break a promise that was within her control. The reason I haven't seen her has been because of lack of money for travel. But she said she'll do everything in her power to get the money together to come see me this year. And I believe her. If she doesn't, I know she'll come as soon as she can. That's just how my mom is.

I'm always surprised by how much I enjoy Elmore Leonard

I didn't like The End of the Affair much, even with -- oh golly, forget his name, big actor -- reading it.

Have a great Sunday, Mamie. Going After Cacciato has been on my shelf for years. Maybe this year?

>177 Morphidae: Good to know, Morphy. Hoping she can make it this year.

>178 sibylline: I adore Elmore Leonard, Lucy. He created such great characters, the dialogue rings true every time, and I love the humor that is always a part of his books.

The End of the Affair was narrated by Colin Firth, who did a really fabulous job of it. I was surprised by how sad and slow the story was - I read that it was based on real events in Greene's life, and that it was one of his "Catholic novels". The only other thing I have read by him was Our Man in Havana, and that is so very different.

>179 BLBera: Thank you, Beth! I really liked Going After Cacciato - and I might increase my rating a bit once I have finished mulling it over. My main complaint is that it was a bit too long and the writing could have been tighter in places. It suffers from my having read The Things They Carried first, unfortunately. I really loved that one. That being said, Going After Cacciato was totally worth my time, and I love the way that O'Brien weaves magical realism into the story.

Hi Crazy!! I love thunder and lightening. Shortly after getting married, my husband and I sat outside on our apartment balcony and watched a storm that lasted for hours! We were huddled underneath the overhang with blankets, but it was outside and you could hear everything and feel the wind. It was exciting and so beautiful.

Hello, Kim! Me, too! This was in the wee small hours of the morning - Craig slept through the entire thing, but Mercy and I got to see an awesome display. I love to watch from the screened-in porch, but as it was raining in rather violently, I did not get to do that this time. We had hail earlier today - I could do without that.

Hey, Mamie!

Some wicked storms around here yesterday, about 100 or so miles from you. Windy, dark, floods of rain.

I love Murakami, and oddly started with Wind-Up Bird, not an easy book by any means, but quite rewarding.

I love Graham Greene in all his costumes. A special favorite was The Power and the Glory, a terribly sad (with funny parts) story. I loved The End of the Affairtoo, excellent and so different, as you say.

Have a fabulous week.

Hello, Gail! Sounds like our day, pretty much. But the lightening show didn't start until about 2am.

I am looking forward to further exploring Murakami. And I am making a note of The Power and the Glory - I have The Unquiet American in the stacks, so that will be my next one by him. I think that more than anything, The End of the Affair just took me by surprise with how melancholy it was, but I loved the introspection and the internal dialogue, and it is one I think I will read again.

Hoping that your week is also full of fabulous!

Happy Sunday, Mamie!

If you loved 1Q84, you're set to read just about anything by him, IMO. Some of his early ones, like Hard-Boiled Wonderland and A Wild Sheep Chase, are way out there, but I still think you'd enjoy them.

Happy Sunday, Joe! Good to know about Murakami. I don't mind way out there if it is done well - that's what I love about PKD.

Swinging by with happy new thread wishes and to say that I have added The Bear and the Nightingale to my library hold list. Looks like a goodie!

>134 Crazymamie: - What a wonderful tribute, Mamie. Memories are sacred. I love that our memories keep our loved ones close to us, even if the grief of loss never totally departs. I am gaining a lot of comfort from the memories I have of my mom, although certain days this year are going to be a little difficult to get through.

Wishing you a week filled with wonderful.

One of the great things about Graham Greene is his range. Brighton Rock is a solid thriller; Travels with My Aunt is fun and funny with a serious foundation; The Third Man, The Quiet American are serious, the latter prescient.

I've seen the movie version of Our Man in Havana. If End of the Affair is anything like I think, Graham Greene had quite the range. ... and I'd love anything read by Colin Firth. Big heart for him.

Morning, Mamie!

Hey Mamie! Heard about nasty storms that ripped through Georgia. Hope your all unscathed!

Hello mom, have a lovely week.

It's the start of another week, mom. I saw this and instantly thought of you.

Good morning.

Morning, Mamie!

>193 thearlybirdy: Love that, Birdy!

>194 lunacat: Ah, yes. Mmphmumble Day. :-)

Hi Mamie!
Chiming in on Murakami ... I loved Kafka on the Shore (a 5 star favorite). I need to read IQ84 next. Glad to hear that you liked it. For some reason (can't remember now why) I got a little afraid I might not like it. Your nudge gives me courage - lol.

Lovely memories of your Dad :-) You were very blessed.

>193 thearlybirdy: and >194 lunacat: What a smile. Thanks all. On to attack Monday.

It's not Monday....It's Tuesday!! So all is well again. : )

We survived Monday!!!

Saw the storms in and around Albany on the news last night and worried about you. Everything OK at Pecan Paradiso?

Happy Tuesday. A much better wish than Happy Murmphmumble day.

Good morning, Mamie! I hope all is well with you!

Keep calm and stay Mamie!

Just popping in quickly to say that all is well at the Pecan Paradisio. We came through the storms just fine, although Georgia itself sustained a lot of damage. We are thankful that we had nothing to report.

A high bit of drama here yesterday as Barnum, our 13 year old toy poodle, fell down some stairs and dislocated his hip. Those of you who have followed my thread for several years might remember that Barnum fell down the stairs two years ago and had to have major surgery on his right hip. This time it was his left hip - the vet was able to put his hip back in place and the x-ray revealed that he might also have a hairline fracture on his ilium. They gave him pain meds, and we brought him home, but this morning he woke up screaming and would not put any weight on it at all, so back to the vet we went. He's fine, but they did give him stronger pain meds. Poor baby.

Nothing to report on the reading front, as it has been plenty crazy here, but I am hoping to get back to the books today.

Aww, poor Barnum! Hope those pain meds work for the little pooch!

Poor Barnum, I hope he is pain free now and heals well. Give him a hug when he is up to it.

Oh no, poor Barnum. I hope you can keep his pain under control and that he doesn't need any further vet input! Poor chap. Fingers crossed for quick healing.

Hi, Mamie! Missed the morning greeting. Bummer about Barnum. Hope the little guy will be okay.

Having a good time with The Mammy. Good recommendation.

Hiya, Mamie. Poor Barnum.

Hope you have a good day despite the drama. I liked your reading appetite comparison of Murakami with PKD. You're right - you're a natural for liking Murakami's books.

>203 Crazymamie: Aw, give poor old Barnum a pooch-smooch from me. That can't be any fun for any of you. Here's hoping it heals quickly.

Hope Barnum recovers swiftly. Glad to hear you've escaped the worst of the weather. Will you be out watching the moon anytime soon?

Oh, Barnum! I hope he gets better quickly.

Sorry to hear about your drama, Mamie. I hope Barnum is doing better soon.

Oh no... Poor Barnum.... I'm so sorry. I hope he heals soon and well... hugs ( please think about acupuncture. It can aid in healing)

More bad news~

Official Patricia Briggs
Yesterday at 3:34pm ·
It is with a very heavy heart that I write of the passing of one of the finest men I have ever known. Mike Briggs passed away early this morning, very unexpectedly. We are all deeply in shock and grieving. Things on the web page and Facebook will likely be a bit neglected while we sort things out and make all the necessary arrangements. Please understand if we can't reply to messages or inquiries right away. If you would like to send Patty and her family a condolence card, our address is P.O. Box 5394, Benton City, WA, 99320. Mike was simply just an awesome and amazing man; we will miss him every day for the rest of our lives. The Purple Avenger will be doing his good works in heaven;I will strive to live up to the example and high standards that he set. -Ann

I read all of his posts, so sad.

>203 Crazymamie: I hope Barnum heals quickly and >213 mckait:, McKait I am so sad to hear this.

>203 Crazymamie: The poor guy. I'm almost in tears here. You must have been hearing, him cry out like that. :`(

I hope he's better extra quick.

Mamie, glad to read you've made it through the storms. So sorry about Barnum, though! I hope he's doing okay on the stronger meds and is back to his regular self soon.

Hi Mamie! Poor dog! I hope he's feeling like himself very soon.

Hi Mamie, I hope Barnum is doing okay. I was glad to read that your family were all ok after the weekend storms.

Poor Barnum - hope he makes a speedy recovery.

So glad to hear you made it through the storms OK but really sorry to hear about Barnum. Please give him a little kiss from me.

Okay. So hopefully today is a return to a more normal pace for us. We had really wonky internet during the storm days, so sometimes it worked, and sometimes it didn't - most annoying. Rae and I have been indulging in watching old seasons of The Closer - one of our favorite crime shows, which has been eating up my evenings but in a good way. And I have been trying to get back into the groove with my stepping. So far, so good - it helps that we are having a run of cooler days, which is a most welcome development - of course, when I say cooler, I mean for Georgia, so low 60s and high 50s. I'LL TAKE IT!!

Barnum is not up yet, so I don't know how he;s doing today, but I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your good wishes. The stronger pain meds seemed to do the trick for the rest of yesterday - they pretty much knock him out, which is what he needs to let that swelling and irritation settle down.

On the reading front...*sigh*...I need to get back to it. I am almost half way through A Gentleman in Moscow, which I am still loving, and I am about a third of the way into The Looking Glass War, which I am listening to. The interesting thing to me is that this is the fourth book in LeCarré's George Smiley series, and once again, George Smiley doesn't feature the way you expect him to. Strange but also kind of cool. I am still working on all the other books posted up there in >2 Crazymamie:. Hoping to get to my reread for the month for Ellen's Reread Challenge next - Finding George Orwell in Burma.

Happy Wednesday to all of you!

>221 Crazymamie: I like that Mamie. I think I have the other 1%.

Happy hump day.

>222 PaulCranswick: Oh, dear. I was very good and did not have any last night, so tonight is pretty much a sure bet. Happy hump day to you!

Poor Barnum. Please have a tender hug for him.

>224 DianaNL: Thank you, Diana. He is up now, and he is doing better this morning.

Morning Mamie! Hope Barnum is doing better this A.M.

It sounds like you are having a good time with the Count! You are flying through it. Great guy, isn't he?

Nearly done with The Mammy. I appreciate the nudge on this one. It's a gem.

Morning, Mamie! I hope Barnum is better today, too.

>226 msf59: Morning, Mark! Barnum seems to be doing better today - calmer and no whining or screaming, which is just so great. I can't stand when they are in pain like that.

I am loving the Count and already dreading that it will have to end at some point.

The Mammy is so great, isn't it?! I knew you would like it - and the next one, The Chisellers is just as good.

>227 scaifea: Morning, Amber! Seems to be doing better today - crossing my fingers.

Great news that Barnum is starting to feel better and that the internet problems seem to be ironed out. I hope everything stays vaguely under control around there - seems like you've had a bit of a run of bad luck in the last few days!

>229 lunacat: It is, Jenny. Vaguely under control sounds just about manageable, and made me laugh. And I can't complain - no damage from the storms, and Barnum could have done much worse than just dislocating his hip, so I am very thankful.

Vaguely under control is the status I strive for. It seems a good aim in life ;).

Crazy--Glad your internet is back. Still sending good wishes to Barnum. And I love the Closer!! Here's to vaguely under control. LOL

>231 lunacat: I concur, Jenny! And a little chaos keeps things interesting.

>232 Berly: Thanks, Kim - me, too! We never lost it altogether for very long, but it kept going in and out, which is frustrating. Rae and I have watched all of The Closer several times, but we have yet to see the final season because I did not want there to be an end. Maybe this year we will finally watch it. I'm thinking vaguely under control could be out house motto: The Pecan Paradiso, where life is sweet, and things are vaguely under control. Ha!

I'll cross fingers, too. Poor pup.

>226 msf59: Yes Mark, read The Chisellers! They're all terrific.

Good morning, Mamie!

>234 AMQS: Thanks, Anne. I still need to get to the final book, The Granny, which I am looking forward to.

>235 brodiew2: Afternoon, Brodie!

Back in a bit to catch up with my thread, which has gotten away from me!

Hiya, Mamie!

Thanks for getting us going with The Mammy. I need to get to The Chisellers and The Granny, too. I'm going to be tied up for a good while now with Infinite Jest.

>233 Crazymamie: I love your new house motto!! LOL. And funny thing--I haven't watched the last season yet either! And for the same reason. : )

>238 jnwelch: Hiya, Joe! You are most welcome - and Nancy is who hooked me when she reviewed the final book in the trilogy. Infinite Jest - I admit I am a tiny bit scared of that one.

>239 Berly: Thanks, Kim! And I love that you haven't watched the final season yet, either! *grin*

Catching up with the thread:

>187 lkernagh: Hello, Lori! I am continuing to enjoy The Bear and the Nightingale - so well written.

Glad you liked the tribute to my Dad - grief is a strange process, isn't it? It seemed unbearable at the beginning, but now I can carry it, and I find comfort in the fact that to hurt so much means that there was so much love. It gets, not easier per se, but more manageable as time continues to pass. I will keep you in my thoughts this year - the first year was the hardest for me.

I thank you for those lovely wishes.

>188 weird_O: Thanks so much for that, Bill. Making a note of those observations. I remember your fabulous review of The Quiet American, which landed that book in my stacks. Hoping to get to it this year.

>189 cammykitty: The End of the Affair is perfectly delivered by Colin Firth, Katie - I wish he would do more audiobooks. I also have him narrating The King's Speech. And I need to track down the film version of Our Man in Havana.

>190 scaifea: Hello, Amber!

>191 Carmenere: We came through the storms just fine, Lynda, but we were in a lucky pocket. There is a lot of damage in other parts of town and some people and businesses are still without power.

>192 GeezLouise: Hello, Rae! And thank you.

>193 thearlybirdy: Oh, how I love that, Birdy!!! Thanks so much.

>194 lunacat: Exactly how I feel about Mondays, Jenny! Thanks.

>195 jnwelch: Hey there, Joe! I see you agree with the signage!

>196 -Cee-: Hello, Cee! How lovely of you to stop by. And I am happy to hear that you gave Kafka on the Shore five stars - most encouraging! Hoping you can get to IQ84 soonish. Maybe it's size was intimidating? I have the beautiful three volume set, and I love just looking at it - it's like a work of art.

I totally agree that I was blessed in the Dad department.

>197 michigantrumpet: *waves at Marianne*

>198 Berly: Yes, Kim. Hooray for Tuesday - every time.

>199 thearlybirdy: We did indeed, Birdy, and what a yucky one it was.

>200 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks for checking on us, Reba. We came through the storms completely intact - no damage here.

>201 lunacat: Agreed, Jenny.

>202 brodiew2: All is well, Brodie. I will endeavor to "keep calm and stay Mamie"! I can pretty much guarnatee the last half of that, anyway.

>204 ChelleBearss: I know, right, Chelle?! He is still sore but doing much better with the new meds.

>205 FAMeulstee: Thank you, Anita. He is managing much better and even putting some weight on the leg now.

>206 lunacat: So far so good, Jenny. The different meds are making a world of difference.

>207 msf59: Hello, Mark. Barnum is still very sore, but managing better with the new meds.

I knew you would love Agnes!

>208 jnwelch: Hey, Joe! Barnum is doing a bit better, poor dear.

Murakami and PKD both do quirky and surreal very well. I love authors who think outside of the box.

>209 rosalita: I delivered that smooch, Julia, and Barnum sends his love in return. We are babying him, and he is eating it up.

>210 charl08: Thank you, Charlotte. Me, too. Craig was out on deck, wine in hand watching the moon just last night. I am hoping to do that tonight - last night I had already promised Rae a few episodes of The Closer, so we finished up season four. LOVE watching crime shows with her!

>211 scaifea: Thank you, Amber!

>212 Familyhistorian: Thanks, Meg. The new meds are making a huge difference in his pain management.

>213 mckait: Hello, Sis! I promise to think about the acupuncture.

That is just so sad about Patricia Brigg's husband. Thanks for sharing that.

>214 Berly: Thank you, Kim!

>215 Morphidae: It was heart-wrenching, Morphy. I thank you for those good wishes.

>216 bell7: We were thankful to come through the storms completely unscathed, Mary. We lost power a few times, and our internet was very wonky, but that is the worst of it.

The newer meds are doing the trick for Barnum and allowing him to relax so the leg can heal, thank goodness.

>217 AMQS: Thank you, Anne.

>218 DeltaQueen50: Hello, Judy. Barnum is managing much better, although still not quite himself, he is much more comfortable than before.

The storms were terrible in this area, but we came through just fine.

>219 SandDune: Thank you, Rhian.

>220 RebaRelishesReading: I have delivered you kiss, Reba. Barnum thanks you from the bottom of his heart.

Good morning, Mamie!

Are you still enjoying A Gentleman in Moscow?

That's good news re little Barnum.

I think I am all caught up here - if I missed you, holler!

>248 jnwelch: Morning, Joe! I am truly loving A Gentleman in Moscow. I do not want it to end - so very charming.

HOLLER!!

You didn't miss me, I just felt like hollering :)

You made me belly laugh, Chelle! Nicely done!

HOOT!

You didn't miss me. So I did the *proper* thing. *sniffs*

I'm too tired to either hoot or holler. I could probably manage a vague grunt?

>253 Morphidae: Ha! Morphy, you crack me up!

>254 lunacat: A vague grunt will do, Jenny. I know that feeling of "the coffee is broken".

Mamie, poor little Barnum :-( I'm glad the medicine is working and he can get better. It's good to hear that you didn't have storm damage - there was a short item on our news about it. But yikes about the internet. At least you have plenty of books to read for when it just won't co-operate :-)

You guys are cracking me up!!

>256 susanj67: I know, Susan. He is a sad little doggie, as he wants to be able to move around more without it hurting.

Our property did not get any damage from the storm, but other parts of town are is horrible shape. Over by Craig's office, it is a mess. It's an older area, and there are so many trees down and so much property damage. This is the park right across the street from him:





The internet is working much better these past two days, so I am hopeful.

>257 Berly: *grin* Happy to provide entertainment, Kim!

>255 Crazymamie: >257 Berly:

>258 Crazymamie: Mamie, that's alarming! Such big trees, too.

I'm glad the storm didn't affect you too much. Will be thinking and praying for your town, though.

>259 Morphidae: LIKE! Too funny, Morphy!

>260 susanj67: Yep. Beautiful old trees.

>261 drneutron: Thank you, Jim.

>258 Crazymamie: Oh wow!! Now I am even gladder that the Pecan Paradisio was spared!

>259 Morphidae: LOL Morphy!!

>262 Crazymamie: >263 Berly: I figured with all the quacking up going on, there had to be ducks *somewhere*.

>221 Crazymamie: lol!
Not before I do my sit ups and press ups! Ok, maybe before that.....

>263 Berly: Yeah, it's kind of crazy how parts of town are complete devastation and others look unmarked. The property next door to us looks like the entire back yard is a giant lake, but we have no standing water at all - tells me we really lucked out and bought the right house.

>264 Morphidae: Right. Good thinking. *giggles*

>265 LovingLit: I am getting mine just as soon as I get in the rest of my steps. I am very much looking forward to it.

>254 lunacat: That's been me every day this week!

>258 Crazymamie: I hate to see old trees lost like that. But not as much as hearing about hurting fur babies . Condolences all around.

Oh wow, that was some storm. You did luck out, and I'm very glad!

>267 thornton37814: Oh, dear. Hoping you get your mojo back soon, Lori!

>268 michigantrumpet: Me, too, Marianne. Barnum sends his love for your concern.

>269 AMQS: It really was, Anne. And yes, we did. And thank you.

Poor Barnum! I'm glad you made it through the storms Mamie. Missed your Dad's birthday. Mom's is coming up next week. I love thinking of her and doing fun things in her memory.

I also have A Gentleman in Moscow in my short stack, but you know my stack is tumbling over!!! Amor Towles is coming next weekend. I'll go see him whether I start the book or not.

Lovely to see you here, Roberta. I will be keeping you in my thoughts next week as you remember your Mom on her birthday.

You need to get to A Gentleman in Moscow! I have not written my review yet, but I would give it ten stars if I could - it was a perfect read for me. Please, please, please start the book - so charming, and you won't be sorry, I promise.