Page Turning Momma

Three Months, Really?

2009-07-20T10:57:00.001-07:00

Hm. I always mean to update this thing. I really do. I have fabulous intentions and somehow I just get caught up reading other blogs and failing to update my own.We've had a fairly busy summer, our insanity doesn't begin for another week or so, so we're enjoying the slow(er) pace of the moment. Once August hits, every weekend is taken up with camping, or heading to visit B's parents/grandparents and begin the great hauling of the tractors to the fair and then to the tractor show. What? You mean your family doesn't attend a tractor show each year? You don't spend 3 days sitting in the middle of a field surrounded by the great orange, red-and oh yes, let's not forget-green machines? For B's family it's a tradition. Must come with the territory when the patriarch restores and repairs tractors as his main hobby. And owns roughly 40 or so of the beasts. And so we sojourn to the other side of the state to spend the weekend driving tractors, looking at tractors, watching tractors pull things, eating yummy (but irresponsible) things that are deep fried in goodness only knows what. Not to mention reconnecting with family. And yes there is quite a bit of family to reconnect with-the South Carolinians fly in, as does the Connecticut duo. I joke about it (hey, I'm a city girl, what did you expect?) but it really is a pretty great time. It's really great that the whole family shows such support for Grandpa's tractors.It's cold here in Michigan. Freezing by the standards of many, particularly for mid-July. It's some cruel joke Mother Nature is playing on us I suppose. But really I look forward to Fall, to the Long Winter and the cozy fires, craft time and more. Don't get me wrong, I love summer, but there is only so much sandbox time I can take before I get incredibly bored of it all. Of course, ask me two weeks into our winter hibernation and I will tell you basically the same thing. Impossible to please I suppose.Really that's it. We now are proud parents of two year old with all of the joys and trials that entails. I cannot imagine what these drama queen antics are saying about the future. In fact, shortly after Little Miss stormed off to her room, slamming the door and screaming all the way-after being told to sit on her bottom at the dinner table, I remarked to B that if this is ANY indication of what 14 will be like, heaven save us now. Of course I hear 3 is worse. Oh. Great.

Boredom Reigns

2009-04-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

I'm all cooked out. For months I was doing a great job making weekly plans as to what we might eat for breakfast and for lunch. Since Brian works second shift, our big meal is the midday meal. For dinner, we all have leftovers, so I tend to make bigger meals so that we each can eat twice. But I'm bored. My list of around 45 meals just isn't appealing to me. Each morning, my darling husband looks at me and asks "what are we making for lunch". And I swear I want to have an all out tantrum. Sound absurd? Of course! I'm just tired of the same old thing. As Spring comes upon us, I'm craving some wonderful fresh veggies and light meals. So help a momma out! What can I do to change up the mealtime doldrums?

Long time no write!

2009-04-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

It's been well over a month since last I wrote in my blog. I'm not sure what brought on the hiatus, but I'm glad it's over. I have so many things to share and write about! Let's do some bullets for catching up purposes.

Remodeling: We are in the throes of a remodel on the whole house. What started as a simple painting project (begone baby poo green!) has turned into...well...a nightmare really. My entire house is coated in drywall dust and mud, various tools of the trade, and displaced items. But it's going to be worth it (I hope). In addition to the painting and repairing of the main areas in the house, we also installed tile in the family room. The hearth was carpeted which probably worked fine for the previous owners. However, for a family that burns for heat from mid-November until late March, it simply isn't practical. The next purchase for that room will be new carpet and it will be done!
Hannah: I have discovered a few things about my darling girl. First, if we do not get out of the house at least once a day she goes stir crazy and throws the worst of her tantrums. She's also gaining quite a mind of her own. Which means it often takes us much longer to do tasks that used to be so simple. Things like dressing her or changing her diaper. We're working on incorporating more and more of The Love and Logic principles. If you have any ideas of how to adapt them for an almost 2 year old, we'd appreciate it!
Reading: I still have an atrocious stack of review books to get to at some point. I often wonder why I even requested some of them. Ugh! However, I have recently finished two wonderful novels by Meg Wolitzer The Position and The Ten Year Nap. Both were great reads. I had picked up TTYN for my book club. I was a little surprised that I was one of only a few who enjoyed it, but it was a great discussion nonetheless. I am so happy that we reformed our book club to include more people. The discussion and the company has improved dramatically. It's a small price to pay to get up at 6:30AM to head to a great little restaurant with some fun ladies! What's sleep anyway?
Work: Unfortunately, the economy has hit my job hard. I went from over twenty hours a week in February to this week-one hour. Yes. One. However, I welcome the break and relish being a "real" stay at home mom. Of course that doesn't mean we've really accomplished much due to the remodel, but relaxing with my babe in the evenings is much more fun than teaching sullen teenagers about synonyms and square roots! Thankfully, we have no worries when it comes to B's job. Ah, the joys of a state funded job.
Money Saving: I am SO excited that a few of my friends from my MOMS Club have decided to join me on my money saving campaign. We did a first ever coupon matching party last week and as a result I saved almost $100. Now, when someone says that I always scoff and think...humph...whatever..they probably spent $200 or $300. But not me! I saved almost $100 and spent just under $100! A savings of 50% is nothing to sneeze at. And from our comparison emails after our shopping was completed, almost everyone did as well or better than me! This was definitely the first of many coupon parties! I can't wait!

And that's it in a nutshell! We're all doing great, but slowly going mad from the lack of order in our currently topsy turvy house. Soon, I'll upload pictures to update the family blog, so keep an eye out over there as well!

Booking Through Thursday on Saturday-Collectibles

2009-02-28T09:57:00.000-08:00

Hardcover? Or paperback?
Illustrations? Or just text?
First editions? Or you don’t care?
Signed by the author? Or not?

I've not done these in awhile, but this one intrigued me. I am a collector of books-I'll buy anything interesting from a yard sale, a rummage sale, even the store if it interests me enough. Library sales are my favorite. I'll fill bag after bag of wonderful stories to read, memoirs to inspire, and even non fiction to educate. But I've never stopped and thought about my collection. It's a rag tag group of really old, falling apart tomes, crisp newer novels, well worn and well loved by many hands other than my own. But I don't care. I love them. There is a horrible battle that I wage with myself every 6 months or so. It's called The Clearing of the Shelves. I take everything off the shelves in hopes that maybe this time I'll create some room. And I go through the books one by one, rereading the backs, flipping to my favorite parts, or wondering "where the heck did this come from?". More often than not, the book is placed back upon the shelf to be read at another time. But sometimes they end up in my giveaway box. This box is for the MOMS Club exchange and the library. Somehow last year we ended up with over $400 in library donations on our taxes. This year I hope to make it higher. As I get older I have to come to grips with the fact that if I haven't read one of my beloved books yet-and it's been on the shelf more than two years, chances are I'm not going to read it. So they must come off the shelf, be relegated to the donation box and sent away. But I often wonder....have I ever given away and then purchased the same book again? Maybe even my own copy from the library sale? Eh...maybe I'd rather not actually know that one.

Book Club: The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

2009-02-25T10:28:00.000-08:00

I had heard the buzz about The Time Traveler's Wife when it came out a few years ago, but never quite found the time to pick it up and delve into its pages. So when a member of our newly formed book club chose it for this month I was really excited. The book did not disappoint. I'll admit, I had my prejudices. I, as a general rule, do not enjoy the realm of science fiction. But I cast that aside in light of having recently finished The Host and the Twilight series. I figured, what's one more?

The story unravels the relationship between Clare and Henry over the course of Clare's lifetime. You see, Clare meets Henry when she is six, but he does not meet her until many years later. Though confusing to follow at first I did find that it became easier. You see, Henry is a time traveler. Since the age of three he has traveled through time sometimes interacting with a past or future self, sometimes interacting with past or future versions of those in his life. When he arrives, he arrives with literally nothing not even clothing. Which, as you can imagine, causes quite a set of problems. But the real story here is the love story between Clare and Henry. Showing that love does overcome any obstacle set before it. They struggle with never knowing when they will meet again, infertility, embarrassing happenstance, and more. It was a good read, one that should provide plenty of conversation.

Review: Forever Lily by Beth Nonte Russell

2009-02-25T10:19:00.000-08:00

Though it has been on my shelf for a couple of months at least, I hadn't yet picked up Forever Lily. I'm not sure why, as the moment I did pick it up I could not put it down. It's the story of a woman who makes the journey to China with a friend to bring home a baby girl. However, once the baby is brought to them, the mother to be no longer wants her. Beth's heart goes out and she longs to take the baby home with her. Whether that is possible or not is for you to find out should you choose to read it. The story was great and I learned a great deal about policies in China, the living conditions, and worst of all the conditions of the orphanages. The point where Beth describes where Baby came from is the one point that I had to set it down. To picture hundreds of babies in the care of one or two caretakers, no sunlight, no interaction, no real nourishment either emotionally or physically was just heartbreaking. The entire book takes place over the course of the two week journey to China, but there is so much to tell and so much to learn that it never feels drawn out. One thing that was incredibly distracting for me was the dream sequences. Beth has some exquisitely detailed dreams, and she explored them with a mystic and through her meditation before putting them in words and discovering their meaning. Having little experience with dream sequencing and channeling, it was just not interesting to me-but did add to the story in an unexpected way.

I felt that as a mother I related more to this book than I would have before my daughter was born. In truth, I've found that with a great deal of my reading which is probably why my tastes have shifted to happier stories, happy endings, happy lives. The connection that Beth feels to Baby is not at all different from the way one feels connected to a child carried, loved, and nurtured for nine months. It was a great story, one I would definitely recommend.

It's been one week...

2009-02-23T19:07:00.000-08:00

Anyone remember that song? Oh the 90s, what fun!

Once again a week has passed. What happened to all of the good intentions I had to post daily? Hm. Will need to find them! I have three book reviews to write. I've finished a book club book, and almost two review books. The first was okay, but a little heavy on dream sequences, and the second was poetry. Oh how I am loving poetry books! Strange since before I was a mom I just couldn't stand it.

It has been a long couple of weeks. Hannah is sick and with her sickness comes the "Iwanttobeasclosetomommaaspossibleeverysecond" and while I love it, I also long to use the bathroom alone. Just once. Luckily we're out of the clingy phase of sickness and into the snuggly phase. I love the snuggling, the hugs, the ray of sunshine she is in the morning. She's becoming her own person more and more every day. She doesn't have many words, but she can communicate quite clearly with her expressions. I just wish I could capture them on camera. Every time it comes outs, she just gets what we call "camera face". Look for the reviews to come soon!

Absentia

2009-02-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

I've been absent, neglectful even, of my blog and my Google Reader. At last count, I had about 500 posts to read. Talk about overwhelming! I just....I am in the throes of the winter doldrums. Michigan had an awesome warm up last week and we took full advantage. We hit the zoo, took some walks, and played outside with our friends. It was a fun time, but rather than a nice break it only served to stir up more Spring fever. Trapped in the house once more, I find I'm tired of the same ol' stuff we do.

For example, usually we do a craft project or outing once H wakes up from her afternoon nap. It's a fun time for us. We do playdoh, color, make cookies, fingerpaint, any number of activities. But lately? I don't even feel like dragging the stuff out to work on it. Instead I cop out with crayons and fun papers. Stimulating for her little mind? Yes, but not quite the caliber we usually go for I suppose. So in the midst of these doldrums, I thought I'd create a little list of things I DO actually like about winter to hopefully bring to mind that it isn't all windshield scraping and ten layers of clothing, it isn't slip sliding your way in a parking lot or fretting about missing hats.

Snowmobiling. There's just something about it. I'm definitely not a cold weather person, but I do love my purple sled my hubby redid for me. Recently we discovered trail riding and both loved it. There will be more of that to come, if we're lucky.
Not having to wipe the dog's feet. Nothing more annoying than wrestling a 65 pound dog to wipe his muddy paws before said mud is tracked through the house.
Not having to look at our back yard. We have aforementioned 65 pound dog, it's been snowy for months-you put that one together. Ick.
Cosy fires in the fireplace. Nothing is better than reading a good book in front of a crackling fire.
Great shopping deals. After Christmas the clearances are AMAZING. I've picked up several items to pack away-including the latest steal on a pair of winter boots for next year.

Ok. That's it. Really I struggled with 5 though I thought I could make it to ten. Ah well. Next time. :) I think it's time to curl up with a hot cup of cocoa and my book club selection for awhile.

Review:Baron Thinks DOGS Are People TOO by Laurie Dean

2009-02-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

I always love to receive a review copy of children's books. Hannah gets a new story and we get to discover the illustrations and story together as well.

Baron is a wild little pup who gets sent to Dog School to learn to behave-he isn't truly naughty, just a typical puppy. He is on a quest for a best friend and has many adventures along the way. The story was simply written, which I think is best for children's books. However, there were many different concepts within the story: the quest for friendship, being sent to school, Dad going away to serve in the Air Force, and more. I felt as though it could have been broken into smaller stories with each storyline expanded on a bit more. Having so many could make it difficult for a small child to follow the story. However, it was a sweet story and we enjoyed it. Brian and I commented to each other that Baron was very similar to our wild Bailey. Hannah enjoyed the "gogs" in the illustrations and seemed to like the brightly colored illustrations as well.

Saving Money?

2009-02-04T10:42:00.000-08:00

In today's tough economy a lot of families are thinking about scaling back, pinching those pennies, and cinching the family belt just a little tighter. We are very fortunate because at this time, neither of us are in danger of losing our jobs. Mine has recently been scaled back, but I know that the job itself will remain despite a decrease in hours. But we are luckier than many who face every day wondering if today is the day they will be laid off, or let go permanently.

Brian and I have come a long way in money management since we started. I have no problem in admitting that credit cards were our good friends while we were in college, and that we're still paying off portions of our wedding thanks to that thoughtless mindset. But in the grand scheme, we have very little debt. Our cars are paid for-though older than the vehicles our friends drive, they run. And when they don't? Brian can fix them. So we save in that respect. I do get a pang of jealousy when someone gets a new vehicle. In fact, I have commented to my friends that I'll drive the ol' Intrepid until the wheels fall off, and then Brian will put them back on.

When it comes to grocery shopping, I routinely save us at least $100 or more in sales, stock up sales, and coupons. I've been asked how I do it, but it's so second nature that I've never really thought about it. My mom shops this way-coupons and stock up sales so it's all I've ever known. So I thought I'd compose a little list and if you have anything to add-please share!!

When I make my grocery list, I only use the ads. What is on sale is what will get purchased this shopping trip-and then I coupon match. There are exceptions to this-eggs, my coffee creamer, wipes, but for the most part it's only what is on sale. And I never pay full price for milk. Ever. There are too many places to get it cheaper to pay the $3 or whatever it is regular price.
I buy things in bulk-for example you can get a set of Tresemme shampoo and conditioner in 32 ounce bottles from Sam's for a mere $9. Deodorant is the same. I LOVE Dove. In fact, it's about the only thing I've used since they launched it. I can get a five pack from Sam's for cheaper than two sticks cost me at my regular store.
I also purchase laundry detergent from Menard's. It's almost always on sale and I often have rebate checks to use there anyway.
I shop ONCE every two weeks. Nothing in between. NOTHING. No quick runs for milk, an extra ingredient, nothing. Because I found every time I go into the store I drop at least $30 when I only intended to get one thing. That means I get extra creative the last couple of days before shopping and end up using up lots of odds and ends.
I cut EVERY coupon I come across. I put the ones I intend to use in a small basket, and the ones I don't in a larger basket. I share the larger basket with my mom, and my MOMS Club friends. It's a way to spread the coupon cheer-and while I don't buy Huggies diapers, I do buy Poptarts, so it's a good trade off too. Plus, something I wouldn't normally buy will sometimes come on a super sale which means I can pull the coupon out and use it!
We price compare. I can get a huge bottle of apple juice (Hannah's fave) at WalMart for $2.27. A bottle half that size costs me $2.50 at Meijer. Name off a few items and I'll tell you where to get it cheaper-in fact, I have friends who do just that. I also shop at 2-3 stores a week. It doesn't take me a lot of time, and I'm sure to get the best price.
Stock up! When something we like a lot (those aforementioned Poptarts) come on sale, I stock up buying at least 3 or more. It sure beats paying full price later on! I do this a lot of our staples as well, you'll never catch me without a box of pasta and a jar of sauce or frozen veggies in the freezer. Hygiene items never go bad, so when KMart does double coupons, I load up on toothpaste, cleaning supplies, and more.
Find out where to sacrifice. This isn't grocery related, but we cut out our expanded cable in favor of basic two years ago for the summer. Our thought was that we are never inside in the summer anyway, so why pay for it? We've never gotten it back saving us a good $30 a month or $360 a year.
The library is a good friend. I get a lot of craft books from there that I would otherwise purchase. We also get movies there. Movies for Hannah, and ourselves. If we want a newer release or a specific title I request it and they have it waiting for me when I get there. We never really rented movies, but this saves us that cost and allows for some free entertainment.
Leftovers. We eat our big meal at lunch due to Brian's odd shift, but I always make enough for everyone to get at least 1 or 2 more meals from it. This means Brian has a hot meal at work for dinner, and I don't have to cook for just Hannah and I at night.

So there are my top 10 tips. But there are some things that we don't sacrifice. I mentioned my deodorant earlier. I would never go generic, or to a cheaper brand. So here are the things we'd never compromise on:

Cable internet. This is more mine than anyone else. I justify it because I need it for work, but we all know I wouldn't get rid of it anyway.
Deodorant. I mentioned it before. We both have our brands and that's all we use. I stock up when it's on sale or at Sam's, but in a pinch..I'll just buy it.
Cell phones. We don't have a land line, so we'll always have cell phones.

I can't think of anything else that we don't compromise on. I thought I had a whole slew of things, but the grand scheme-it comes down to three. So how about you? How do you save? And what are things you have no matter the cost?

Review: Little Stories by Jeff Roberts

2009-02-04T10:23:00.001-08:00

I received this book as a review book. Initially, I was very excited as I love short stories. Being the mom of a toddler, you take your down time pretty seriously. So a book that I could read in short chunks was pretty welcome in the midst of the tomes for various book clubs. Roberts' stories are a collection of works from the course of his career. There is a distinct aura of Midwestern life in his words and a general humanity in his characters. These are people in real situations, dealing with real life and the messiness that it entails. Not all of them have a happy ending, in fact many stories leave the reader to guess what happens next. Of course, I always give it the happy ending, but there are many twists and turns that could be had.

However, I did notice some things that detracted the reader from Roberts' characters. There are many grammatical and spelling errors sprinkled throughout the book. The first couple were not a big deal. But as they grew more frequent, it distracted me from the stories. I feel that the editor could have done a much better job.

In all, Roberts captures life in a unique way, matching stories of love lost with those of parental pride and frustration.

Of birthday parties and summer fun..

2009-01-31T11:45:00.000-08:00

I know I'm getting Spring fever when all I can think about are the trips we'll take in the summer, riding my bike, and swimming. Last night I began researching for a long weekend trip we'll take to Battle Creek. We plan to stay at Fort Custer to travel their trails. We'll safari over to Binder Park Zoo to see the animals. And finally-the Gilmore Car Museum. As you can see, the last is purely for Brian's enjoyment.

But today I began researching themes for Hannah's birthday party. I probably put way more time, thought, and energy into these parties than I should. After all, at 2-she won't remember. But I will. And I can't wait! We are doing a butterfly theme-so here are some of the ideas:

The invitations will be one of two things-either her hand prints forming a butterfly on the front OR a picture of her in her butterfly costume holding a big 2. And it'll say "Flutter on over to celebrate Hannah's 2nd Birthday"
There will be a craft. I have to first decide if we're inviting all of Hannah's little friends to the family party. Which I think would be a blast...but I wonder if it would just totally overwhelm her. Anyway, said craft will be a butterfly-there are SO many ideas. But I must have something easy enough for ages 1-6.
Food...will be standard grilling out fare. Nothing incredibly exciting there.
Cake-I have an urge to try my hand at cake decorating. I get this urge often-and then head to Sam's to order the least ugly cake I can find. Sad, but true. Perhaps it'll be different this time around.
One of my favorite parts of planning is the goodie bags. Probably bubbles, stickers, butterfly nets, bug cages, and some other cool butterfly thing.
For the adults, I'm going to make some butterfly shaped chocolates.
And instead of a pinata, I think I'll have the kids do something else. Like a "hunt" for butterflies-I have to work on the logistics of this.

And that's it. Really, considering this party will be in June I've done a ridiculous amount of planning. But I figure that I'll start buying stuff soon to sock away so I better have an idea of what to get. Besides, when you have work schedules to coordinate with-and half a family that lives half a state away-you must plan early!

Here are my conundrums: what to get for boy goodie bags when the theme is SO girly, what to do if it rains AGAIN, and finally-the decision to do one party or two. Hmm....

So...your turn! How early do you plan out your kiddos' parties? What sorts of things do you do? What sorts of things do you avoid?

Patience

2009-01-28T10:14:00.000-08:00

I know, you're probably thinking that I'm just plowing through virtues this week. I assure you that is not the case. I talk about patience today because it's the first thing to go once I'm stressed. And I've been stressed lately-a lot. I lost patience with everyone, my hubby, the stupid barking dog next door, my own stupid barking dog, and Hannah. It's probably the last one that bothers me the most. I get impatient that the second we get in the car she removes her boots-but refuses to do so when we come inside. I get impatient that she is crying in the car every time we get in it these days. I get impatient because she won't eat her dinner, or for a myriad of other reasons. Bottom line, Momma's fuse is short this week.

Whenever I have moments (days, weeks, whatever) like this I think of my favorite parenting book. I don't think it was meant to be a parenting book, it was simply a memoir of Lu Hanessian's first year of motherhood. It's called Let the Baby Drive. I read it while I was pregnant and can't ever get it out of my head. What sticks with me is that she would always put herself in her child's shoes before getting upset or angry. Of course, she had her moments and she wrote about them as well-which made me like her even more. So I put it into practice and thought about life from Hannah's point of view.

Why does she take off her boots in the car? Probably because when we're going on long trips, it's the first thing I do as well. Why does she cry in the car? The sun is in her eyes, her snack is out of reach, we forgot her drink or her baby. Why does she throw her food? For attention. Momma and Daddy still read at the table-she wants to be a part of everything we do. Why does she make that angry face all of the time? For a way to communicate-since she doesn't talk it's how she expresses herself. And I'm willing to bet that if I monitored my own expressions more closely, I'd see them pop up on my own face.

Does this solve everything? Not by a long shot. But it's a start, it helps me understand her and where she is coming from even though she can't tell me. Now if only I could do something about the stupid barking dogs........

Balance

2009-01-27T16:39:00.000-08:00

I'm overwhelmed.

There. I've said it aloud.

After beginning the home management guide and zone cleaning, I realized that it would take a couple of months before it got easy. Once everything was organized the first time around it would make the rest of the year as easy as pie. I think I just forgot how insane work is in January and February. So I'm feeling as though I've once again set myself up for failure. And it bothers me. I have good intentions, I want to get things done-I just don't have time. I feel guilty for spending time when Hannah is awake on chores-especially on days like today when I had to work this afternoon and couldn't give her much attention after her nap. So I cleaned a shelf in the bathroom closet during her bath. And then felt guilty that I wasn't playing with her as I normally do.

There are many items left on the list for this week-add to that that I didn't finish last week's zone due to working every day and I'm just left feeling overwhelmed. Starting Sunday I will begin a solid month of working. Every. Single. Day. Between workshops and my other job, I don't get a day off until March. Yes, March. Too much to do and not enough time, energy, or...me.

Where is the balance? How do you make time for cleaning, organizing, spending quality time with the kiddos, your spouse, yourself, and every other minute task that must be done? Share away, because I need some help!

The Host by Stephenie Meyer-and Book Club Adventures

2009-01-24T19:25:00.000-08:00

I've been a part of a trio of book lovers for many years. Okay, three. We decided to form our small group after being part of a much larger one. I met one of my closest friends through this first club and encouraged a friend of mine from college to join as well. We...well...didn't enjoy it. It was a classic example of how book clubs fail. No discussion, ten of fifteen people showing up having only seen a movie. Even the numbers were a problem. With so many people, it was very hard to listen to each person and really participate in discussion. So we broke off and formed a little group of our own. Not long ago we felt it was in need of expansion and each current member invited a friend or two to join us. This morning at 7AM we had our first meeting. Yes 7AM. That sounds like an appalling hour even to me and I have a toddler (of course, said toddler rarely wakes before 8 on a normal day). So we convened at this sweet little coffee shop place with killer donuts. Seven sleepy ladies there to discuss Stephenie Meyer's The Host. It was really nice. I definitely enjoyed myself and decided on the way home that it was definitely worth getting up extra early to get in a little girl time. As a momma with a hubby that works an odd second shift, I don't get too much time with other women sans kids. I take it where I can get it.

As for the book? My impressions are vast and the group discussed everything from dystopian society, Marxism, religion, and Meyer's disturbing tendencies toward abusive men. Did I enjoy The Host more than the Twilight series? Well, in a different way. The Host seems to be more of a comment on society as a whole at present. What's wrong with it as well as the dilemma on how to fix it. It definitely goes deeper than parasitic aliens and twisted love quadrangles with a smattering of suspense. I enjoyed it, and I think the consensus was that the others did too.

I'm excited for the group to meet again. I look forward to more discussions and reading books that I wouldn't have though to read on my own. That is after all the whole point of a book club, right? To expand literary horizons, to discuss, and yup-to have some simple girl time in the predawn hours while hubbies and babies (at least my late risers anyway) slumber peacefully.

Losing it...

2009-01-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

By it, I mean...well...let me explain.

Since Hannah became mobile, I don't think I've yet used the bathroom on my own. Unless of course she isn't within a 10 mile radius.
My hairbrush doubles as Hannah's, Brian's, and oh yes-Bailey's as well (when Hannah gets ahold of it).
My shoes are carried all about the house-worn or chewed on, depending on who has them.
I never shower without a little head popping in to "check on me" or share a myriad of ducks, buckets, and other assorted necessities for bathing.
My chapstick has been smeared on everyone-including the dog and every "friend" Hannah owns- and yup, I still use it.
My purse is well, filled with snacks, sometimes cups, and usually a diaper or two.
My plate is always fair game for others-except Bailey, that's just gross.

And you know what? Each and every one of those things would have freaked me out before I had Hannah. Now? It's just par for the course. Truth be told, when that little head doesn't peek around the shower curtain, I feel a little lonely. And when I eat all by myself, I miss the little bird mouth begging for what I have-even if it's the same. What I wouldn't mind is having my own hair brush, but in the grand scheme of things it isn't so bad. There are certain things no one tells you before you become a mom. The reason is that they are indescribable. That feeling when those little arms encircle my neck? The little fingers tangle themselves in my hair? Those soft baby sighs? Hearing "Momma" for the first (or one hundred and first) time? All of these are magical feelings. I won't lie. It's not all sunshine and roses. There are days that I am freaking out for various reasons, overwhelmed, overbooked-but never underpaid. Those sloppy little kisses make every minute of it worth it-MORE than worth it.

Change of Focus

2009-01-23T11:14:00.000-08:00

Well I've decided to repurpose my blog. Yes, I LOVE to read and it's one of the highlights of my life-when I get time to do it. Of course, as late there has been neither time nor substance in my reading life. It's the plight of the typical stay at home mom I suppose. So I'm changing focus. While I'll still post various book reviews, I'm going to focus a bit on the larger aspect of my life-parenting and running my home.

To start, I've never really introduced myself on here. So here's the dirty thirty:

I'm a stay at home mom, at least most of the time. I have yet to meet a stay at home mom who actually stays there-and this is a good thing, it means our children are getting a lot of enrichment time-or Wal*Mart time. Whichever.
I work two part time jobs in addition to my SAHM status. I work for Educate Online in various roles and also for a small company that does test preparation workshops. I love them, but wish they spaced their busy seasons to not coincide. Such is life. :)
I love reading new suggestions on how to better my parenting, household management, budget skills, and more.
I belong to a great group of stay at home moms-the Grand Rapids North MOMS Club. It's a great group of ladies and let's face it-the only other people that care about your child's every tiniest milestone are your other mommy friends. Of which, I've made many.
I love reading, but as my blog proves I just don't get enough time. Lately I've turned to fluff-which I LOVE since I can pick it up randomly. But it sure doesn't feed my mind the way my other literary tastes have.
I now live about 3 minutes from where I grew up.
I LOVE living in the city. This one in particular.
I've been married 3 years to my college sweetheart. We have an interesting "how we met" story that I'll share another day.
I have 2 children. Hannah, my precious 19 month old daughter. And Bailey, my almost 4 year old furbaby. He's a boy-and doesn't like to be called she or it. Just FYI.
I love being organized and making lists. You'll learn this. Soon.
I once wanted to be a lawyer, then a psychiatrist, then a teacher.
I actually went to school to be a teacher-thus my positions in the education field. I searched for a job to no avail which is why we chose to have our daughter when we did.
I love the colors pink and purple.
My favorite smells are campfire, and really expensive perfume.
I still have a Christmas tree up. My excuse? I decorated it with snowmen so that I don't have to take it down until the end of winter.
Secretly I believe that I like to play with Hannah's toys more than she does. Especially Little People.
Remember the 80's version of Little People? I miss them too.
Someday I want to take a dance class.
I try to be crafty. REALLY crafty. It just doesn't always work out. Unfortunately.
I love babywearing. Hannah is at a stage where she hates it, I can't wait for another little one to wear.
MASH is one of my favorite shows.
Since becoming a mom I can't watch shows that deal with children in horrific situations. I totally cried at GA last night.
Yes, I'm a TV addict.
Add to that I'm also an internet addict.
Um, add caffeine to that-in the form of Diet Coke and coffee.
I can't wait for summer-camping, swimming, hiking. Of course, give me a month and I'll want winter back with its cozy evenings by the fire, cuddling under blankets, and crockpot meals aplenty.
I love to plan parties. We have 2 per year. Hannah's and Brian's birthdays. Of course, B's just happens to fall on New Year's Eve.
Christmas is my favorite holiday-but I decorate for everything. Terribly tacky decorations I'm afraid. Paper cutouts, window clings galore, and more. At least now I can use Hannah as an excuse.
I'm totally a creature of habit. Disrupt my routine and I won't be right until it's back on track.
I hope you enjoyed! I look forward to posting more!

Forgive My Trespassing by Cynthia Blomquist Gustavson

2008-12-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

I will admit-normally I am not a great fan of poetry. It has to really touch me in order for me to get into it, to want to read, to want to delve deeper into the words. When I received my review copy of Forgive My Trespassing, something called to me about it. Maybe it was the plain brown cover, maybe it was the title-whatever it was I cracked it open and read it beginning to end in one sitting. Since then, I've found myself reopening the pages to favorite lines, favorite imagery, and the memories invoked. Though a very short body of work, it was very poignant. I sense the author to be much older than I, and yet I felt we could connect in some ways. She writes of love lost and gained, family struggles and joys, and events both current and not. I truly recommend this book to both poetry lovers and those who are not.

The one thing that was disappointing is that usually when I am sent a book to reviewed I am given a little information on the author and in this case I was not. The book came on its own, to speak for itself, which I suppose is not such a bad thing.

Booking Through Thursday-5

2008-12-04T16:55:00.000-08:00

Miss me? I've appeared to take a super long sabbatical once again. Why...I'm just not sure. My reading life really suffers this time of year. Consumed with making cookies, wrapping, buying, and agonizing over gifts consumes a large portion of my time. The other portion is dedicated (of course) to my 18 month old-going on 13 years old daughter. Yeah. We started with "the look" this week. You know..the one that clearly says "mother, you are out of your mind-I know what's best". Right. Combine all that with a new job that sucks much more of my time than I ever thought it would and there you go. My laundry list of excuses.

1. Do you have a favorite author? Sure do! I LOVE Elizabeth Berg.
2. Have you read everything he or she has written? Unfortunately no.
3. Did you LIKE everything? No. Dream When You're Feeling Blue and Range of Motion just didn't do it for me.
4. How about a least favorite author? Not really-though Richard North Patterson ranks up there.
5. An author you wanted to like, but didn’t? Janet Evanovich. I must be the only person in the world who doesn't like Stephanie Plum.

TAG!

2008-11-16T17:59:00.000-08:00

My pal Rachel at American Bibliophile tagged me. So here I am...responding to the "you're it" portion. How I love blog tags! I really do. But I don't know of 6 other book bloggers. How sad is that? So if you read this-then TAG! You're it! And leave me a note directing me to your post. I'm always interested in new literary (or not so much) friends!

Here’s how it works: I list six book-related things about myself, then I tag six people, and they do the same. If I didn’t tag you, and you want to participate, leave a comment with a link to your post, or a list of your “6 things”!

I do a total overhaul of my bookshelves once every 3 months or so. I can hardly ever bear to part with anything, but at least my collection is once again organized even if I'm the only one who gets the system.
I now own so many books that I can't remember what I do or do not own or if I have read it. I have been known, on more than one occasion, to begin reading a book-only to put it back a few pages in because I've realized I already read it.
Borrowing books makes me slightly nervous. Rachel is the exception to this rule. I know she expects books to be well-loved.
Lending also makes me nervous-but that was another post in and of itself.
Reading has been a long time hobby for me. My dad at one point refused to buy me any books because I was done and wanting more after a few hours.
I have read more in the last month than I have in the last year thanks to the Twilight series. I wanted them to never end because it was like reading when I was a young child-to be sucked in and totally engrossed in a story to the point it would take awhile after laying it aside to fully come back to the real world.

Booking Through Thursday on Saturday-Why Buy?

2008-11-15T08:48:00.001-08:00

The question: I’ve asked, in the past, about whether you more often buy your books, or get them from libraries. What I want to know today, is, WHY BUY?
Even if you are a die-hard fan of the public library system, I’m betting you have at least ONE permanent resident of your bookshelves in your house. I’m betting that no real book-lover can go through life without owning at least one book. So … why that one? What made you buy the books that you actually own, even though your usual preference is to borrow and return them?
If you usually buy your books, tell me why. Why buy instead of borrow? Why shell out your hard-earned dollars for something you could get for free?

Hm. This is a toughie. I'm a total book junkie. In college, when other students would wait for payday to head to the bar-I would head to the bookstore. I'd spend an hour or so and choose carefully a book for the next week. I'd left my collection at home and this just made my dorm feel a little more homey. Being the first to crack open a book, the smell, the crisp pages unmarked by smudged fingerprints, food remants, or other mystery stains usually found in library books-is a great feeling to a booklover. In those days, I'd also order books from Barnes and Noble. Off the bargain shelf, but new nonetheless. I must admit I almost never took a book from the library.

These days, most of my book money goes to growing Hannah's collection or buying them from garage and library sales. The time constraints of the library hinder me a bit. I often need more than the three weeks they allow. Not because I read slowly, but because I don't find time very often to sit and enjoy reading unless it comes from the children's section. The reason I continue to buy is my collection. As a child I dreamed of having a library-floor to ceiling-four walls of nothing but books with only enough room for a fireplace on one wall. Last winter my husband built me a floor to ceiling shelf-with beautiful deep shelves and plenty of room for my collection. So I must continue to buy. After all, I wouldn't want to hurt his feelings by having the shelves half empty, would I?

Lady Flatterley by Linda Wagner

2008-11-11T16:34:00.001-08:00

The Little Reader and I received a review copy of this book last week and were most excited to explore the story together. Unfortunately, it didn't make it in our TBR pile last week, but found its way in this evening. The Little Reader, of course, did not have a long enough attention span for this story as it is quite long for toddlers. Preschoolers would enjoy this tale of a caterpillar and her metamorphosis into a butterfly. It is nicely written and the rhyming helps it to flow quickly through. The illustrations accompanying the story did capture Hannah's interest for a while as she "oohed" and "ahh'd" at the pretty bugs.

From the Momma standpoint, this is a story that puts in some great subtle messages about perseverance and the benefit of change. Lady Flatterley begins the story as a scared, vulnerable little caterpillar, and through different turns of events, ends up as a gorgeous and proud butterfly. There is a message of God's plans and that He often does not take us down the easy path to get us where we need to be. I look forward to the conversations this will lead to when we read it in the future.

Booking Through Thursday-Gifts

2008-11-06T12:18:00.000-08:00

What, if any, memorable or special book have you ever gotten as a present? Birthday or otherwise. What made it so notable? The person who gave it? The book itself? The “gift aura?”

It was 1989. I was 7 and so excited about reading that I finished 2-4 chapter books a day. I remember loving Ramona, being excited about the Fourth Grade Nothing, and wishing to be in The Babysitter's Club. That Christmas brought me two of the greatest loves of my book life. First, a hardcover copy of Heidi. A story I'd never before enjoyed-but this book was fancy. Fancier than any book I had ever seen-apart from our family Bible. It had watercolor illustrations, the edges of the pages were red and it was beautiful. As with many of my beloved books, I was unable to read it at first. I simply held it carefully-and always with clean hands-and looked at the pictures. Eventually I did read it-over and over again. My grandfather had given it to me-we shared a love of reading, a love we also shared with my father. Dad had also gotten me a book that Christmas. Aesop's Fables. Another beauty of a book, hard bound, beautiful illustrations throughout. I loved these stories, and pored over them. Sharing them with Dad and often making him read them aloud to me-though I was more than capable of doing it myself. It was that year that I realized books could be more than a companion to the lonely child I was, more than a place to lose myself, they were also works of art.

Sunday Salon

2008-11-02T17:43:00.000-08:00

It's sad to say that very little reading has been done this week. After receiving a temporary promotion, I've taken on extra duties and a ton of training-that was fraught with tech issues. It was a crazy week and I'm looking forward to returning to a more normal week this coming week. Tomorrow I have the day off and fully expect to finish Eclipse and at least start the final book. I'm afraid that if I do not, my two friends who just finished the series will kill me as they are dying to talk about it. I have received a plethora of review books that I look forward to reading and have three book club picks to get to as well. Nothing like a little pressure, eh? It's not as though I don't also run my household, hold three positions at one company, one at another, hold a board position on MOMS and happen to be the assistant chief zookeeper for our Little People zoo. Phew!

In a great change, Hannah has really come into her own with reading. She brings us books all of the time-and has definite favorites. I would say the absolute is "Where is Baby's Belly Button" she loves lifting the flaps and poring over the pages. I think she even knows the story by heart. Sadly, this replaces her former favorite "I Love You As Much" which was much loved in this household for many weeks. In following with the extra early Christmas spirit, I'll soon be breaking out our Christmas books as well. I've long thought about devising a rotation/organization system for books and may put that into use in the next week or so. I'll let you know how it goes.

What are you or your children reading this week?

Booking Through Thursday on Sunday

2008-11-02T17:38:00.001-08:00

Are you a spine breaker? Or a dog-earer? Do you expect to keep your books in pristine condition even after you have read them? Does watching other readers bend the cover all the way round make you flinch or squeal in pain?

I expect my books to remain in pristine condition-I treat them with respect and HATE to loan out books. About a year or so ago I loaned out a couple books that I treasured-written by my favorite author. When they were returned, one cover was torn and both had dog eared pages. I was livid and vowed never to allow that person to borrow again. In fact, I don't often loan out books just because of that reason.

The Sunday Salon on Monday

2008-10-27T16:30:00.001-07:00

This past weekend was a busy one for our family. Having neglected our duty to visit the other side of the state for almost two months, we made the trek in anticipation of my father in law's birthday party, and the annual girls' shopping trip to Birch Run. Being a true mom and book lover, there were only two stores I was excited to visit-the Carter's outlet for all things baby-er, toddler-clothing related and the Borders outlet. My sister in law Amy is almost as much of a book lover as I and she accompanied me inside. I found many great ideas for purchases, and did manage to purchase several books for Hannah and an activity book for myself. The activity book is one that I hope will come in handy during the long winter months of bouncing off the walls. Amy picked up a couple novels and was in search of a book of poetry by Edgar Allan Poe (I think I have a Christmas gift idea!). It was a great weekend and we came home to a whirlwind of house cleaning, cooking, and general prepping for the Halloween party we hosted for our playgroup this morning.

As for my reading life when not deeply involved in every book Hannah unceremoniously plops on my lap? I'm still deeply entrenched in the saga of Edward and Bella. I'm still surprised at how much I enjoy these books and look forward to discussing them with my fellow readers soon. I have a stack of review books to get to, and I still must delve into that load of books I lugged home from the library sale.

Happy reading!

Queen Vernita's Visitors by Dawn Menge

2008-10-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

I always get so excited when we get our review copies in the mail. Today we received Queen Vernita's Visitors by Dawn Menge. Hannah and I sat down to read it together during snack time. We both enjoyed the pictures and Hannah especially perked up upon hearing her name as one of the characters. The story is that the new Queen Vernita misses her friends very much. She invites twelve friends to her home-one for each month of the year. Each month brings a new friend, new adventures, and lots of fun. I liked the repetition of the story, the reinforcement of what happens during each month of the year not only in accordance with the weather, but also activities. The theme of friendship is present throughout. However, Hannah mostly liked the illustrations, being sure to point out the pumpkins in October and the apples of September (two of her current favorites).

I think this book would be especially useful in a homeschooling environment to help teach months of the year as well as seasons. Hannah isn't there yet, but we'll be putting this book away for future use! And we're hoping that Menge continues writing her stories of Queen Vernita.

Booking Through Thursday: Coupling

2008-10-23T18:26:00.000-07:00

“Name a favorite literary couple and tell me why they are a favorite. If you cannot choose just one, that is okay too. Name as many as you like–sometimes narrowing down a list can be extremely difficult and painful. Or maybe that’s just me.”

Hmmm...my favorite couple? I can think of so many....

Cannie and Peter (Good in Bed, Certain Girls)

Rhett and Scarlett (Gone With The Wind)

Laura and 'Manzo (Little House on the Prairie series)

Bella and Edward (Twilight Series)

Daisy and Jay (The Great Gatsby)

But I think I'll focus on Rhett and Scarlett. I first watched Gone With The Wind when I was about twelve. Though the movie was terribly old, and terribly long I was in love. Entranced by Scarlett, her independence, her love of life, the way men did her bidding. And Rhett, captivatingly handsome, charming when he wanted to be, and dangerous. I couldn't understand why Scarlett couldn't just let go of Ashley and love Rhett. Then I read the book, cover to cover many times. I devoured those pages over and over. In that year, as a lonely eighth grader in a new school, I lost myself in those pages. Altogether I believe I read it eight, maybe nine times. Loving every word on every page.

The story of Scarlett and Rhett was beautiful to me. They had so much fire, so much passion and couldn't make it work. I later picked up the sequel of sorts-not written by Margaret Mitchell and couldn't finish it. The spirit was not captured, that fire between them was lost with Mitchell.

Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner

2008-10-23T18:11:00.000-07:00

Being a longtime fan of Jennifer Weiner, I immediately picked up a copy of Certain Girls when I saw it in the library. Even more exciting was the fact that Certain Girls is a sequel of sorts to Good in Bed. Weiner does an excellent job of seamlessly crossing the twelve or so years from one book to the next. However, it is not necessary to read Good in Bed first in order to get the gist of the story. In fact, it's been several years since I myself read it and I had not problems picking up the sotryline.

In Certain Girls, we are reunited with Cannie Shapiro, now the struggling mother of twelve year old Joy (who we were introduced to in GIB). Joy is about to Bat Mitzvah and is plagued by the desire to both be closer to her mother-and as far away as she can get. Typical teenage rebellions ensue, but it is the way in which the characters come together, interact, and work so hard for normalcy and family harmony. A struggle sounded by families everywhere. Even if you are not dealing with the same issues as those presented in the book, it's easy to take something away-the feeling of not being alone in the world, not being the only one facing familial problems or conflicts.

Reading Certain Girls, I'm sure, is a much different experience for me now as it would have been before my daughter was born. As with so many novels I've read, I connect on a different level to mother characters. I identify with them, and sympathize with them. It was a wonderful book, an easy read and yet thought provoking as well.

Library Sale Madness

2008-10-11T13:52:00.000-07:00

So in addition to being an avid (or desiring to be an avid) reader, I'm also pretty frugal-okay cheap. I'd much rather pick up a book at the library than shell out the $20 or so it would cost. Why? I don't know, I have a zillion and three books....many of which I haven't even read. Most have been purchased at garage sales, Goodwill, library sales, and the like. Library sales....like today. The family and I headed down to the Harvest Festival in my parents' town-with mom and little brother in tow. There was trick or treating for the kids and such, but the best was the library sale. Mom and I stopped in before heading to the rest of the festivities and noted that the "buck a bag" sale began at 3PM. Laying aside our choices, we decided to return. And oh what a sale it was! Here is a sampling of some things I managed to pick up:

4 CDs-various children's music for the Lulu herself
Several children's books with fabulous illustrations, both fiction and non

And for me...oh for me!

Secrets of the Baby Whisperer
The Photograph by Penelope Lively
Drowning Ruth by Christina Schwartz
A Free Life by Ha Jin
Oh My Stars by Lorna Landvik (guilty pleasure read perhaps?)
An Unfinished Life by Mark Spragg
Breath, Eyes, Memory by Edwidge Danticat
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah
The Rapture of Canaan by Sheri Reynolds

I'm very excited about these, and have put them on the TBR shelf (okay, SHELVES, but who's counting?) for reading when I'm finished with Stephanie Meyer and her vampires, the review copies waiting to be read (and reviewed!), and various others I've vowed to finish before they're due (yet again).

The Tutu Ballet by Sally O. Lee

2008-10-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

I received a review copy of Sally O. Lee's latest book, The Tutu Ballet this afternoon. I perused it a couple times, enjoying the art, and skimming the words. But I had to run it by the expert in the house, Hannah. So during bathtime this evening (a great time to read to a toddler as you are sure to have a captive audience that won't run away) we read the story. First we looked through the pictures, which suprisingly got several reactions from Hannah (she's not normally one to enjoy pictures unless a dog is present). She especially enjoyed the animals in their tutus. As for the words? Well, she listened to the entire story-which is a sure sign of a hit! At only sixteen months old, she usually isn't one to really show much interest in a story. The story begins with a description of an animal's ballet, and goes on to show that though each of the animals likes to dance differently-they can come together to perform the best ballet ever!

As for myself, I enjoyed it as well. I like stories that are about everyday things-such as a dance class-as well as highlighting differences and showing that they are okay! It's sure to become a favorite in our house. My one criticism is that the font and background colors make it a bit of a struggle to read-the font should be bolder to make it easier, not only for a parent reader, but for an early reader as well.

Booking Through Thursday: Book Meme

2008-10-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

What was the last book you bought?

This is a bit of a funny story as I techinically just purchased three of them from the libary. My daugter spilled her entire sippy cup onto my library books-so $61 later I am the proud (?) owner of two books on crochet, and The Many Aspects of Mobile Home Living.

Name a book you have read MORE than once

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by Betty Smith The first time I read it, I was captivated, further readings always bring me some new detail or insight. There are several I've reread, but this one sticks out to me.

Has a book ever fundamentally changed the way you see life? If yes, what was it?

How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas Foster forever changed the way I read and they way I interpret literature and novels. I also believe that Let the Baby Drive by Lu Hanessian changed the way I see parenting and the mother/child relationship forever.

How do you choose a book? eg. by cover design and summary, recommendations or reviews

I'm a big cover person, I like it to captivate me, but I also flip it open and read a page or two to see what it's like. If I don't want to put it down, I know I must read it.

Do you prefer Fiction or Non-Fiction?

I'm a fiction girl! I try to read non fiction in order to broaden my horizons, but it rarely works. I just don't get sucked into it the way I do a good novel-memoirs are the exception to this little rule.

What’s more important in a novel - beautiful writing or a gripping plot?

A gripping plot-as you'll see illustrated by my review of Twilight by Stephanie Meyer.

Most loved/memorable character (character/book)

Scarlett. I read Gone With The Wind in 8th grade. I fell in love with her character, her strength, her beauty, and the way she lived life. What can I say, I was thirteen?

Which book or books can be found on your nightstand at the moment?

How To Read Novels Like a Professor by Thomas Foster
Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner
The Shack by William Young

What was the last book you’ve read, and when was it?

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer-the series it's making its way through our playgroup like wildfire. My friend Renee and I each finished it in about a day.

Have you ever given up on a book half way in?

Several actually. I feel there are too many books out there to stick with one I don't like or don't connect to. I always feel bad, and will usually attempt at least twice more to pick it up again. Sometimes, I'm not in the right frame of mind or place in life for a certain storyline, but can relate better later on.

Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos

2008-10-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

This was a recommendation from my good friend Rachel at American Bibliophile-actually I belive we read it for our teeny tiny book club. It's written in a style that can completely suck you in, but also takes some in depth reading to really focus on the characters and understand them.I thought it was a bit slow to start, but picked up and definitely gained interest. There is an infinite amount of discussion material within the book and if you are a fan of Thomas Foster (How to Read Literature Like a Professor) then there many discoveries to be made within the pages of this novel. The writing was very good, well thought out, and easily enjoyed. I do strongly recommend this novel for discussion as it leaves you with many queries about the author's intentions.

Recommendations please!

2008-09-01T19:46:00.001-07:00

I have been slacking in many areas of life-as I mentione din a previous entry. One reason may be the end of summer, and the laziness that accompanies that, but with the dawning of September I find myself wanting to get back into the swing of things. I have several reviews waiting to be written, ideas for new things on the blog, and more.

However, I would like to know if you have any recommendations for great blogs that I can subscribe to? Being new to the blogging community, I haven't found a lot of time to go browsing around. So tell me who you read and enjoy!!!

Field Report!

2008-09-01T19:31:00.001-07:00

Field Report is a new site with an awesome way for writers to commune, share their writing, and get constructive feedback. Some of the writing is excellent, and they're always looking for new posters-you don't have to be a professional to write. The bonus? You can win cash prizes! So head on over to Field Report and check out some posts-maybe even join yourself and possibly win some cash! I plan to tweak some of my recent writings and posting over there soon!

See you there! http://fieldreport.com/

No time!

2008-08-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

I've been slacking a great deal-actually not just here, but many aspects of life as of late. I'm okay with it actually, I need a bit of a slowdown sometimes. With Brian heading back to the afternoon/night shift next week, I know that I'll again have plenty of time to regale you all with my thought inspiring book reviews. *smile*

I did finish Tom Perotta's Little Children (which I think I read before, but couldn't be sure). I am also working through Jennifer Weiner's Goodnight Nobody. As odd as this is, there are several correlations between the two-mostly the fact that they deal with dissatisfied stay at home moms. As a SAHM myself, I can't help but wonder if these literary characters, as well as media portrayals are the reason the stereotype of the bored housewife, the unfulfilled mama, and the like are perpetuated. Thoughts for another time I suppose.

So tell me-get me jumpstarted here-what is the most thought provoking book you've ever read? Why did it get to you? How did it speak to you? Have others commented that the book did the same to them?

Time and place.

2008-08-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

There are never enough hours in the day. Laundry, house cleaning, cooking, work, general child care, and more consume every hour. When I do get a free minute, I just zone out-waiting for what comes next. Anyone who is a stay at home parent can relate. It's on the go all day long-from sun up to when the babe(s) decide to sleep.

This past weekend was the annual tractor show. Brian's family comes in and we all convene for a weekend of tractors, food, crafts, hot dog roasts, and fun. It's not about the tractors really (well for Grandpa it is) it's about being with family. Togetherness that we take for granted too often. It was long, hot, and dusty, but we came away feeling reconnected.

But do you want to know the best part? The darling babe decided to nap yesterday. I took her to my mother in laws and laid her down. And, on a whim, decided to grab my book. Two and a half hours later, the babe began to stir and I realized that was the longest stretch of uninterupted reading in months. Since I wasn't home, I didn't feel pressured to clean, or make lists. Since I didn't have ready access to a computer, I wasn't engrossed in some such site or another. And it felt good. I'd forgotten how good it was to completely lose myself in a book, to absorb the plot and characters so fully that they stayed on my mind long after I stopped turning the pages. And it felt amazing.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

2008-08-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

All I can say is wow. I can't stop thinking about this book-the characters, the settings, the plots. In a word-fantastic.

I picked it up on a whim from the library. Actually on my way out, I saw it and had to return to check it out. I had been struck by it before, while cruising for a new read, but the impulse struck. Even once I got it home, it sat on the shelf waiting to be picked up. When I finished the MHC book yesterday, I figured I was on a roll. And since the Lulu was sleeping and the book was due today, I'd test it out. I was hooked almost from the first page and read every spare minute I had yesterday-including until midnight last night. I managed to finish this morning and was really sad to see it end. I haven't felt like that about a book in ages. Simply ages.

It's a story of a young man who, in his final year of college, is suddenly orphaned. He experiences a breakdown and runs away to join the circus. Much of it is told in flashback style since the man is presented as 90-or 93 (he can't remember). Depression era circuses must have truly been a wonder to behold and completing this book makes me want to seek out more information about early circuses and freak shows. I can not do justice to this intricate piece of fiction through my own writing, and so I strongly urge you to pick up a copy. You won't be disappointed.

Where Are You Now? Mary Higgins Clark

2008-08-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

I had not read Mary Higgins Clark in several years. I was a little apprehensive, but honestly looking forward to a book that wouldn't require such in depth analysis. As most books of this genre do, WAYN started out fast paced. Quickly introducing the reader to the characters, and plot lines that would continue through the rest of the book. The story follows Carolyn Mackenzie as she searches for her brother who disappeared over ten years ago. Tired of the strain on her family, she embarks on a journey to find him and make him face up to what he's done to their family. Unfortunately, just as she takes on this endeavor a serial killer strikes again. This casts suspicion on Mack and throws Carolyn's family into the media spotlight. Many twists, turns, and a few suprises later the ending leaves the reader quite satisfied with all loose ends neatly tied.

One aspect of the novel that irritated me was the author's choice of clothing for her characters. While this may seem trivial to many, the choices and wording really dated the author. For example, this novel was set in post 9/11 New York City. MHC often described the 26 year old main character as wearing pastel pantsuits, or blazers and "dungarees". Each time one of these descriptions appeared, it distracted me from the main story.

All in all, it was really a good read. Something I would not have normally picked up-which is why, I suppose, we join book clubs. To read outside of our typical reading fodder and expand our literary horizons. I'm excited for the discussion of this novel and can't wait to hear what the other members have to say.

How about you? What has been recommended to you (outside of your typical genres) that turned out to be a good read?

The silence-or not so much?

2008-08-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

I just noticed it's been almost a week since last I posted. I've been reading-when I can. With a teething baby, upcoming family trip(another one), and more...I've been slacking.

Here's what I'm reading right now:

Barbara Curtis: The Mommy Manual
My thoughts so far? Well it's really preachy-lots of scripture reference, etc. She does have some great things to say. I just have a hard time getting into books telling me how to parent. Shouldn't some things come naturally?

Mary Higgins Clark: Where Are You Now?
Having not read any MHC since middle school, I was wondering how it would mesh with my adult books tastes. The result? I'm really enjoying it. I would enjoy it more, if I had more than ten consecutive minutes in a row to read-but it's going well.

Cold Tangerines:
This has come strongly recommended....but I'm not sure it's for me. I'm not an idealist and I think one needs to be in order to fully appreciate this read.

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

2008-08-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

I have done it. I finally finished it after picking it up three years ago. In the end, as with most books I struggle to read, I enjoyed it. Maybe it was the prospect of attending the production, maybe it was just a challenge. Whatever it was, in the second half of the book I could scarcely put it down. Luckily Lulu indulged me and is taking a wonderful nap this afternoon-which means the Momma gets lots of reading time in.

My thoughts on the book? It was a good story, well thought out plot, excellently complex characters. Some of the scenes were a bit creepy-to put it simply. It was well done in the spirit and keeping of the original story (luckily I read that fairly recently and could recall details). It was richly woven and not overdone as some fantasy books tend to be. Would I recommend it? Oh I don't know, it didn't touch me in any way-but did make for pretty good entertainment overall. If you have read it, feel free to share your own opinions here.

Diving in?

2008-07-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

On August 10, I will be sitting in a theatre with one of my best friends experiencing Wicked the musical. I am so excited. I love plays, musicals, and the like. I'm also very excited to do this girls only outing as we haven't had a "real one" since our children were born (hers is 19 months, and mine is 13 months). In preparation, I checked the book out of the library hoping to be able to get through it this time-using the play as motivation. I tried to read it a couple years ago when my sister in law went to see it while we were all in New York. I even borrowed her copy. Eventually I just gave it back. I couldn't get into it no matter how hard I tried.

I vowed this time would be different. I'm plodding through, but I have to tell you that I spend more time staring longingly at the other books on my shelf than I do reading the one in front of me. When I talked to Amy (my sister in law) this past weekend I happened to ask her what she thought of it. Turns out she never finished it either. Loved the production (the lucky girl saw it in New York) but couldn't finish the book. My other sister in law was able to finish it and seemed to enjoy it-but hasn't seen the production.

So how about you? Is there a book you've picked up and not been able to finish-no matter how you tried? To put a twist on it, has there been a play/movie that you've really enjoyed but not been able to enjoy the book? I'm interested to hear what you have to say-so comment away!

The New Classics Challenge

2008-07-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

Joanna at Lost in a Good Story is hosting the New Classics Challenge! I'm pretty excited about this as I tend to neglect the classics in favor of new lit. Hey, you never know when one might turn into a classic! :o) Anyway, here goes!

So the challenge rules are:

1) Copy the list and bold the titles that you have already read.
2) Choose at least 6 other books from the list , read and review them between 1 August 2008 and 31 January 2009.
3) Come back here and post links to your reviews.
4) In January 2009, cast your vote for which one of the 100 books on the list is your favorite (and write a post on why). The winning book will be sent to a lucky winner chosen by the scientific method favored here in the blogosphere, i.e. names in a hat. Other contests are very probable too, I have some ideas, but they need planning.
5) Have fun! :-)

Sign-up here - http://lostinagoodstory.blogspot.com/2008/07/new-classics-challenge.html

1. The Road , Cormac McCarthy (2006)
2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, J.K. Rowling (2000)
3. Beloved, Toni Morrison (1987)
4. The Liars' Club, Mary Karr (1995)
5. American Pastoral, Philip Roth (1997)
6. Mystic River, Dennis Lehane (2001)
7. Maus, Art Spiegelman (1986/1991)
8. Selected Stories, Alice Munro (1996)
9. Cold Mountain, Charles Frazier (1997)
10. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Haruki Murakami (1997)
11. Into Thin Air, Jon Krakauer (1997)
12. Blindness, José Saramago (1998)
13. Watchmen, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons (1986-87)
14. Black Water, Joyce Carol Oates (1992)
15. A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, Dave Eggers (2000)
16. The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood (1986)
17. Love in the Time of Cholera, Gabriel García Márquez (1988)
18. Rabbit at Rest, John Updike (1990)
19. On Beauty, Zadie Smith (2005)
20. Bridget Jones's Diary, Helen Fielding (1998)
21. On Writing, Stephen King (2000)
22. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, Junot Díaz (2007)
23. The Ghost Road, Pat Barker (1996)
24. Lonesome Dove, Larry McMurtry (1985)
25. The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan (1989)
26. Neuromancer, William Gibson (1984)
27. Possession, A.S. Byatt (1990)
28. Naked, David Sedaris (1997)
29. Bel Canto, Anne Patchett (2001)
30. Case Histories, Kate Atkinson (2004)
31. The Things They Carried, Tim O'Brien (1990)
32. Parting the Waters, Taylor Branch (1988)
33. The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion (2005)
34. The Lovely Bones, Alice Sebold (2002)
35. The Line of Beauty, Alan Hollinghurst (2004)
36. Angela's Ashes, Frank McCourt (1996)
37. Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi (2003)
38. Birds of America, Lorrie Moore (1998)
39. Interpreter of Maladies, Jhumpa Lahiri (2000)
40. His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman (1995-2000)
41. The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros (1984)
42. LaBrava, Elmore Leonard (1983)
43. Borrowed Time, Paul Monette (1988)
44. Praying for Sheetrock, Melissa Fay Greene (1991)
45. Eva Luna, Isabel Allende (1988)
46. Sandman, Neil Gaiman (1988-1996)
47. World's Fair, E.L. Doctorow (1985)
48. The Poisonwood Bible, Barbara Kingsolver (1998)
49. Clockers, Richard Price (1992)
50. The Corrections, Jonathan Franzen (2001)
51. The Journalist and the Murderer, Janet Malcom (1990)
52. Waiting to Exhale, Terry McMillan (1992)
53. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, Michael Chabon (2000)
54. Jimmy Corrigan, Chris Ware (2000)
55. The Glass Castle, Jeannette Walls (2006)
56. The Night Manager, John le Carré (1993)
57. The Bonfire of the Vanities, Tom Wolfe (1987)
58. Drop City, TC Boyle (2003)
59. Krik? Krak! Edwidge Danticat (1995)
60. Nickel & Dimed, Barbara Ehrenreich (2001)
61. Money, Martin Amis (1985)
62. Last Train To Memphis, Peter Guralnick (1994)
63. Pastoralia, George Saunders (2000)
64. Underworld, Don DeLillo (1997)
65. The Giver, Lois Lowry (1993)
66. A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again, David Foster Wallace (1997)
67. The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini (2003)
68. Fun Home, Alison Bechdel (2006)
69. Secret History, Donna Tartt (1992)
70. Cloud Atlas, David Mitchell (2004)
71. The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, Ann Fadiman (1997)
72. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon (2003)
73. A Prayer for Owen Meany, John Irving (1989)
74. Friday Night Lights, H.G. Bissinger (1990)
75. Cathedral, Raymond Carver (1983)
76. A Sight for Sore Eyes, Ruth Rendell (1998)
77. The Remains of the Day, Kazuo Ishiguro (1989)
78. Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert (2006)
79. The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell (2000)
80. Bright Lights, Big City, Jay McInerney (1984)
81. Backlash, Susan Faludi (1991)
82. Atonement, Ian McEwan (2002)
83. The Stone Diaries, Carol Shields (1994)
84. Holes, Louis Sachar (1998)
85. Gilead, Marilynne Robinson (2004)
86. And the Band Played On, Randy Shilts (1987)
87. The Ruins, Scott Smith (2006)
88. High Fidelity, Nick Hornby (1995)
89. Close Range, Annie Proulx (1999)
90. Comfort Me With Apples, Ruth Reichl (2001)
91. Random Family, Adrian Nicole LeBlanc (2003)
92. Presumed Innocent, Scott Turow (1987)
93. A Thousand Acres, Jane Smiley (1991)
94. Fast Food Nation, Eric Schlosser (2001)
95. Kaaterskill Falls, Allegra Goodman (1998)
96. The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown (2003)
97. Jesus’ Son, Denis Johnson (1992)
98. The Predators' Ball, Connie Bruck (1988)
99. Practical Magic, Alice Hoffman (1995)
100. America (the Book), Jon Stewart/Daily Show (2004)

Many of these books are actually living on my shelves waiting to be read, so this should be pretty easy for me-at least the selecting of the books will be easy.

More From Weekly Geek 12

2008-07-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy last few days. On Thursday our internet went down and after MUCH talk with Comcast, a trip to the service center, where I was made to feel like a dangerous criminal, we're back online. At least until it goes down again. I swear, we pay SO much for internet service. Is it too much to ask for it to work consistently? But I digress... We were also gone for the weekend to see Brian's family. Needless to say, I'm glad to be home and back to the normal routine.

I had a few more responses to the Weekly Geek 12, so I thought I'd address those before I go see what Weekly Geek 12 is.

tinylittlelibrarian said...
I saw The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted at the bookstore and thought it was such a fab title. Does it live up to its title? I've enjoyed some of her books in the past, but haven't read all that many.

I am an avid E.B. reader and love most of her works. This was in true E.B. style with characters full of life, insecurities that were easy to relate to, and much more. It is a collection of short stories which address a lot of different themes. It was great-and easy to read in between Momma/household duties.

Jessica said...
Hello! Welcome to WG! You have quite the list of books. I have a couple of questions for you: The Abstinence Teacher - How did you feel that the theme of sex was treated in the book? Summer Sisters - Were you a reader of Judy Blume's books as a kid? How did you feel that this book fit into her oeuvre?

The Abstinence Teacher was a GREAT read. I did like the way that sex was presented, and I totally agree with it. Hiding the facts from kids doesn't do much to promote healthy behavior. I do strongly believe that being open and honest, dispelling myths, etc is a great approach. I felt the ending was a bit wimpy, almost as though the author rushed to just be done with it already. I just picked up another book by Perotta and hope it's just as good of a read.

I did read Blume as a child-though I wasn't a big fan of her. Summer Sisters was actually a reread for a church book club. This book leaves me at a loss. On one hand, it's a great beach read. If you're looking for something steamy, and easy to read-it's great. But I oft believe that Blume tries to hard to be an adult author in her adult books.

Alix said...
Hey lots fo books I haven't heard of here! So the questions I would ask are The day I ate whatever I wanted - is it about what the title suggests (doing what you want) or is it something more and is it fiction? Motor Mouth/Metro girl - are they as good as Stephanie Plum? Here on earth - I'm curious about Alice Hoffman as I've never read her so is this a good one to start with? Can you compare her to any other writers?

The Berg book is a good read. It's a collection of short stories and though it's fiction, I often suspect that her stories are based on something in her own life.

The Evanovich books were great reads. They helped me get through a reading slump. Easy reads, and they seem comparable to the Plum series. I haven't been able to get into those as yet though. I tried with One For the Money, but wasn't able to really delve into it easily so I laid it aside.

Hoffman actually reminds me a bit of Anna Quindlen who wrote Black and Blue. This one is good to start with in my opinion. I actually have had a hard time getting into many of her other books, though I intend to retackle them now that I've enjoyed Here on Earth.

Weekly Geek 12 Responses

2008-07-22T15:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, does it make me a total and utter dork that I was beyond excited to get a comment here? I'm sure it does, but I'm so excited to join the book reviewing/literary lover community! Here goes....

Julie said...
I haven't read a single book on your list so I can't ask any questions other than the totally lame "which is your favorite". But I wanted to say hi anyway, and welcome to the blogosphere. I live in Mich also. :-)

My favorite? I must choose one? It's got to be The Handmaid and The Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg. It's the story of Mary and Joseph (yes THAT Mary and Joseph). I'm usually totally turned off when authors try to delve into biblical characters like this. However, this book grabbed me and I finished it in record time. I felt as though she really did her research to capture the time, not just guess based on a couple scriptures.

bkclubcare said...
Welcome to the Geeks! I have only read The Three Junes - did you like it? which section was your favorite? I remember enjoying this and I was fascinated with the life of the author and how she came to write this book. Also, I don't recall the Lamott book - is it new? I loved her book about writing...

First of all, thanks! I'm excited about it! The Three Junes was a great read. I am counting it among my favorites and am so glad I purchased it. I just wish I had thought to pick it up sooner! My favorite section was Fenno's. I felt like his just encapsulated the whole book and made understanding the other two Junes much easier. The Lamott book is older, published in 1999. I am sure it was a garage sale find and to be honest, I can see why. Not my favorite of Lamott's by far. In fact, I much prefer Crooked Little Heart, Blue Shoe, or even Rosie.

Dewey said...
Which June did you like best? I had two clear favorites, while finding the other June boring, but I won't say which one until you do!

I used to be a "big city" Yooper (I'm hoping you'll know what I mean by that without having to name my former home town on your blog!) and so I wonder if Hoolie addresses life in either of the two main university towns or if he sticks mostly to rural Yooper life. Is this a humor book?

My favorite was Fenno's June. It just spoke to me more than the other two. And in the last, I was really shocked to see the author suddenly tie everyone together in such a way. I had to really suspend my disbelief for that one-or maybe it's true NYC is the biggest small town you'll ever see!

As for the Hoolie book, he is from Da Yoopers (which I'm sure you're familiar with)! He seems to stick more to rural Yooper life-Ishpeming to be exact. It was a good read, though it didn't strike my funny bone as I thought it would. I purchased it for my dad who is SURE to get a big kick out of it.

Weekly Geek

2008-07-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

I was drawn to this Weekly Geek by my friend Rach-the writer over at American Bibliophile. It's a good way to build community and maybe also get me to start reviewing the whole slew of books I have not yet done. So here goes-the Weekly Geek this week is to list books that you have read, but not yet reviewed. For me, this is a huge list since I left off with reviewing about two years ago when the original American Bibliophile went down. However, I'll spare you that list and simply post my most recent reads. You will TRULY get a sense for how ecelectic my reading selections are.

What you do is simply post a comment asking a question about any of the books I have read. I'll comment back or answer them in some other way should you not have a blog-let's get going!

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
The Best Advice I Ever Got by Parents Magazine
The Breakdown Lane by Jacquelyn Mitchard
All New People by Anne Lamott
Metro Girl by Janet Evanovich
Motor Mouth by Janet Evanovich
The Abstinence Teacher by Tom Perotta
The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg
The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted by Elisabeth Berg
The Mommy Survival Guide by Barbara Curtis
Dream When You're Feeling Blue by Elizabeth Berg
The Three Junes by Julia Glass
Rescuing Sprite by Mark Levin
The Lost Mother by Mary McGarry Morris
Here on Earth by Alice Hoffman
Summer Sisters by Judy Blume
Hoolie's True Yooper Tales by Hoolie

Blue Shoe by Anne Lamott

2008-07-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

I was reminded that I hadn't yet added Blue Shoe from the old site. I still remember when this was chosen for a book club selection. It was actually quite funny. I was SO not remotely interested in this author or the selection to be quite honest. Since then, I've become quite a fan of Anne Lamott and own several of her novels including Crooked Little Heart which is one of my fave books.

Normally I do not get sucked into novels right away. I must ease into them, be introduced to the characters and slowly work my way into their lives. However, Blue Shoe sucks you into the lives of the characters instantly. The main character, Mattie, brings you into her life, her thoughts, her emotional trainwrecks, and her family's skeletons. This fast moving novel takes place over five years and follows Mattie and her family as they adjust to new situations and stations in life.When we meet Mattie, she has just left her husband and is living with her two children in her childhood home. She has been broken in many ways, coming from her ruined marriage into a life of single parenthood. As she struggles to make ends meet and raise her children to be happy and well adjusted, the reader almost experiences the challenges along with her. She pulls through, and each time things start to look up-another challenge presents itself. Mattie relies on God and her own strength to help her through her challenges. I am pleased to note that though Mattie prays-her prayers are not always met right away as (I feel) this is a more accurate representation of life. Things in Mattie's world, as in ours, work in God's time and not according to our own wishes and sense of timing.It's refreshing to read a novel like this-written as though you know the main character firsthand. The back cover says that after reading the novel you will feel like you have sat and talked with the author for hours about everything from God to changing appearances and family. This is a true representation of the novel as a whole. I would definitely recommend Blue Shoe to anyone, at any station in life.

****
It's also interesting to note that most of these reviews are from before I had Lulu. So I wonder, how have my literary views changed since then? Well often I think I take a look at the characters with a new view. And I don't read many novels that make me uncomfortable anymore. No more murders or abuse for me. I like happy endings. Of course, there isn't always one-but I like to think there is.

What about you? What influences your literary views and how you identify with characters? How has this changed as you've gotten older or gone through life changes yourself??

The Pilot's Wife by Anita Shreve

2008-07-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

Now that my old posts are out of the way...I do believe I had many more reviews that must have been lost at some point. No matter. Carry on. ;)

We just returned from vacation a few days ago. I must admit I didn't think I'd get any reading done what with all the camping duties and a very demanding 13 month old, but I managed to finish four books. More than I've done in months.

The Pilot's Wife has sat on my TBR for years. I tend to follow Oprah's Book Club. Good, bad, or ugly-these are some of my best reads. Anyway, I picked it up at a garage sale and there it sat. I impulsively packed it and found once I picked it up, I just couldn't set it down.

Set in pre-9/11 New England it's a tale of a pilot with a double life. Lives so at odds with one another that something must break, something must happen. And it does. The novel opens with his wife getting the shock of her life. That knock in the middle of the night that wives of pilots, policemen, and Armed Service men know and dread all too well. It unravels from there-quickly.

Shreve does encapsulate her plots with a great deal of description, sometimes enriching and sometimes distracting. Overall, it was a great read. I did find some parts to be a little too unrealistic to my own sensibilities, but that's the mark of a great book-to allow you to suspend that disbelief. Would I recommend it? Definitely. I have also enjoyed a few other books by her including The Last Time They Met. An equally enjoyable and suprising book.

One of my guilty little secrets is that I always read the last 5 pages long before I finish a book. To my delight and consternation, I was given nothing in those 5 pages to lead me to a conclusion.

Icy Sparks by Gwyn Rubio

2008-07-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Originally reviewed in May of 06. I still get interested in Tourette's Syndrome. There was something not too long ago on one of those primetime news shows that captured me interest. I think at this time in my reading I was quite focused on history and afflictions.

We often read books about people who struggle with their emotions or theirbodies as each fights against them. This book was a nice break from the norm in that the main character struggles with a disease that is often made into a joke.Tourette's Syndrome is no joke for Icy Sparks who is afflicted with the malady in the late fifties. She goes from being viewed as a beautiful and well liked child to something of a freak.Unfortunately for Icy, modern medicine at the time was rather unfamiliar with this particular disease and was unable to provide much for her in the way of treatment other than sending her to a mental institution. Though much of Icy's life is rather typical of a mountain girl in the fifties and sixties, her disease keeps her from doing many of the typical activities of the time. One example of this is when Icy's grandparents install a telephone into their home for her. She is indignant, after all who would call a freak? For much of thenovel Icy makes herself a recluse, refusing to be seen in public lest she have an episode.Though I found this novel hard to read at times due to its emotional impact, itwas a wonderful read that helped me to learn more about Tourette's Syndrome and what it means to those afflicted.

Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner

2008-07-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

STILL one of my favorite authors. I'm actually reading a selection of hers for my MOMS Club Book Club. (What a mouthful!) Orginally published in April 2006.

With the dawn of warmer weather here in Michigan, my thoughts are beginning to turn away from the heavy literature that has recently been my choice and toward lighter reads with a more contemporary feel. Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner is definitely a book of this kind. I must say that Weiner is one of my absolute favorite authors as much for her style as for her content. With each book of hers that I read (and ultimately adore) I find my appreciation for her growing. She really seems to understand modern women and includes everything from weight issues to technological struggles within her books. Little Earthquakes catalogues the changes in four new (very different) mothers.Though their meeting and ensuing friendship is a little unrealistic, the story that follows is one that can truly be appreciated. There is a little something for every young mother or young woman in this book. Through the lives of these women we see how marriages, careers, ideals, and eventually even personalities evolve and change as a result of "baby makes three". Though this book can definitely be categorized as Chick Lit, or even Mommy Lit,I felt that it could speak to a wider audience in the areas of communication and what it takes to have a strong marriage. Weiner points out (through her characters) that it takes more than money to have a successful marriage and toraise wonderful children.If you enjoy this book, you may also want to check out Weiner's other novels including Good in Bed, Goodnight Nobody, and In Her Shoes.

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

2008-07-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

Two years later this book still puzzles me. I have yet to pick it up again and maybe I never will. To say it wasn't one of my faves is putting it mildly.

To be very honest, this was a very difficult book to read. I suppose the most prominent reason for this difficulty was the cultural barrier. Written by an Indian woman, the story weaves through twenty seven years in the lives of a family torn apart by lies and manipulations. I bought the book several years ago at a thrift store and did not really have an interest in it. It was just casually placed on my never ending TBR list. However, when my book club decided to read it for this month's selection, I knewit would be a challenge. Knowing that I had less than a week to read it was an even bigger challenge and I dove right in. Once I was accustomed to the style, it was easy to become involved in the story. One of the women in my book club said that the characters stay with you....and they do...you never quite forget what happened to them and how it happened so quickly. To properly review this book, I would be giving away many of the secrets and intricacies that make it worthwhile. It begins and ends with a set of two-egg twins. The style of writing astounds me as you can really see into the minds of these children. This is not to say that the writing is immature or childlike by any means, it just gives the reader a stronger sense of the children as unique individuals.

If you are looking for a nice fluffy read, a happy ending, or a comedy then this book is not for you. But if you are looking for something to challenge you and make you think about a culture so dissimilar from the way in which we live here in America, then pick up a copy of The God of Small Things.

Jewel by Bret Lott

2008-07-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

Orginially reviewed February of 2006 but still a great read.

I'll be very honest, I am usually repulsed by books written by men portrayingthe inner workings of a woman. How can he know how his character really feels orthinks when he himself is a man? The only other author who has successfullypulled this off is Wally Lamb (author of She's Come Undone). However, I was pleasantly surprised by Lott's portrayal of a woman struggling through life. When the novel opens, the main character has just discovered she's pregnant. We see her through her pregnancy and the birth of her beautiful baby girl. But something is terribly wrong with Brenda Kay, she is a Mongloid Idiot (what we know today to be Down's Syndrome). Since the novel is set in the deep south shortly after the beginning of World War II, there is not much known about the disease. Jewel struggles desperately to save her baby girl and to give her hope, help, and treatment. At times it seems that she puts everyone else, incuding her husband, to the back burner so that she might better care for Brenda Kay.The novel walks us through forty years of Brenda Kay's life through the eyes of Jewel. The reader triumphs with each new development and weeps with each setback. This is a fantastic novel and I highly recommend that you add it to your TBR (To Be Read) list.

How do you choose?

2008-07-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

Another former post from American Bibliophile, but brings up a great point.

My husband discovered a book I had just finished laying on the table. He turnedto me and asked "how do you choose what to read?" I must say that this took meaback a bit. I couldn't really respond to his question with any clear answer,but after some thought I realized that you do not choose the right book, theright book chooses you.While glancing through a bookstore or my friend's collection I often feel drawnto a book. This isn't generated by recommendations or anything of the sort...Ijust feel drawn to it. Sometimes it is the title that piques my interest and tobe honest-sometimes it's the cover. I never know exactly why I choose to readthe books I read.So....the question is...How do you choose the books you read? Do you choose them by author, genre, or simply because they interest you?

Katherine by Anya Seton

2008-07-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Orginally published on American Bibliophile January 2006

Though I do not typically find historical fiction to be among my favoritegenres, I greatly enjoyed this novel. Much revered by bibliophiles since it waspublished in 1954, the book is largely based on facts the author gleaned fromdedicated research.The novel traces the paths of Lady Katherine Swynford and John of Gaunt, Duke ofLancaster. Their love affair, tumultuous decades, and the everyday lives theylead are detailed by Seton. Different from many works of historical fiction thatI have previously read, this novel makes the characters come alive. Whilereading, one is transported to the 1300's and into the life of Lady Katherine.The sights, sounds, and occasionally even smells awake in the reader a sense ofrealism, one can really believe and in some cases relate to these oftmisrepresented figures of history.Though it lasts a very full 500 pages, one feels as though each word was chosenwith care, there is none of the filler that one so often finds in such a longread. The characters are well developed as is the plot, though both are everchanging throughout the course of the novel.

The Beginning

2008-07-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying I've never used this site before. Sure I've read other blogs here, but haven't had one of my own. I think I'll like it. I do have another blog for personal purposes, but this one is to define, create, and encourage my writing.

What kind of writing? Oh I don't know. Whatever strikes my fancy I suppose. I'm kickstarted into this by the launch of a friend's website. It's actually a site we used to write on together and I must admit I was a bit jealous to see it up and running without me. But alas, every woman needs her own domain. Perhaps this will become mine. I love to write and when I think about it, I write an awful lot. Every break I get from Mommahood, or the chore called Being a Responsible Adult, I'm writing. In my personal blog, making lists, chatting away to a friend, discussing issues on my various forums. I'm all over the place. Perhaps this will become my book review domain. Perhaps just snippets of writing. More likely a mix of both.

I'm excited to do this and hope I can create and amuse. Or perhaps just record things for posterity. Whichever it is.....here it is. :)