Chrissy's Books and Stuff

Autumn in Auburn

2013-10-01T16:49:00.001-05:00

"But then fall comes, kicking summer out on its treacherous ass as it always does one day sometime after the midpoint of September, it stays awhile like an old friend that you have missed. It settles in the way an old friend will settle into your favorite chair and take out his pipe and light it and then fill the afternoon with stories of places he has been and things he has done since last he saw you."
-Stephen King, Salem's Lot

So I just finished reading ‘Doctor Sleep‘ by Stephen King – did you know that this is the sequel to ‘The Shining’? I did not realize this until I got to reading the summary on the jacket cover – I’m bad. I see a new Stephen King novel and I just get it, doesn’t really matter what the story is going to be, I know I’ll like it. Although, I have to admit I’m a bigger fan of Mr. King’s non-horror works, like ‘The Stand’ or ‘Shawshank Redemption’. All of his books are good, but those are just stellar to me. I don’t like the true horror quite as much because they scare me silly and I live alone. Actually, I don’t quite live alone, I have the Teenage Banana and the Baby T-rex, but it is humiliating to admit to your children that you scared yourself right into a nightmare. And really, it’s not like I can keep a gun or a can of mace in my room, because if you remember, I’m a TERRIBLE klutz and would more likely get myself than a bad guy.

Sorry! Tangent. Do you all remember The Shining? It was first published in 1977 and was made into a movie (starring Jack Nicholson) in 1980. The story takes place at a deserted Colorado hotel with a dark history. Jack Torrance (dad) is an out-of-work alcoholic who used to be a teacher and for him, this caretaking job is his last chance. His son, Danny, has the shining (a way of knowing things, I guess you’d say) and as the season progresses, Jack begins to lose his mind and Danny (bless his baby heart) is witness to all the darkness in his father’s mind and to all the ghosts in the hotel. In the end, Jack dies and the hotel burns down. Doctor Sleep is kind of a twofold story – a sequel to The Shining, showing us how Danny (now Dan) has ended up and a story that can stand on its own (with new characters, including Abra, who also has the shining, but much stronger than Danny did).

We first catch up with Dan, who was an alcoholic for most of his life (trying to live with the memories of his crazy dad, I guess). He eventually steps on the path to recovery, ending up in a New Hampshire town (where Abra lives) and works in hospice care, helping patients over to the other side with his gift.

The new part of the story centers around a group called the True Knot, a band of gypsy-like people, who travel around the country. The True Knot are sort of immortal, I guess. They can die, but as long as they feed correctly, they have a much longer than normal lifespan. They feed on a substance called ‘steam’ which is given off by children with the shining as they die or are tortured. Guess what? They are after Abra, who is exceptionally gifted.

The story is how Dan and Abra meet and how they defeat the True Knot. The end happens pretty quickly and is a tad anticlimactic, but I SO enjoyed the story that it didn’t cause me any undue pain and suffering. Keep in mind that I am a little biased and could read Stephen King novels over and over (I have done this, actually) and still find them enjoyable. In this case, Doctor Sleep was solid and entertaining but nowhere near as scary as The Shining. An entirely different kind of book, actually. I would have to say that you can see the growth in Mr. King as a writer (uh, DUH, it was written what? 35 years later?). Anyway, imho, worth a read. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. Maybe 4.5 out of 5. Yall read it and tell me if I’m being completely biased. Please let me know what YOU think in the comments!

Coming Soon:

There are certain writers that I really look forward to their new releases. Well, good news. There are a bunch of great ones coming out!

1. We Are Water by Wally Lamb (October 22). Excellent author – I especially liked ‘She’s Come Undone’ and ‘I Know This Much Is True’.

2. The All-Girl Filling Stations Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg (November 5). If you haven’t read Ms. Flagg, you definitely should. You most likely know her as the author of the book that produced the movie ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ but she has some other wonderful books, including ‘I Still Dream About You’ and ‘Can’t Wait to Get to Heaven’. Such feel good books, I promise you.

3. The Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan (November 5). I’m sure you remember her book, ‘Joy Luck Club’ but other definite include ‘The Bonesetter’s Daughter’ and ‘Saving Fish from Drowning’.

4. Stella Bain by Anita Shreve (November 12). The first book I read by Anita Shreve was ‘The Pilot’s Wife’, which was a selection of the Oprah book club. It was amazing. And also traumatizing. A book you don’t forget, for sure. Still though, she’s an iffie author for me. Some of her things I really love (‘Resistance’ for example) and some just don’t do it for me.

5. Still Life with Bread Crumbs by Anna Quindlen (January 28). ‘Black and Blue’ was the first book of hers that I read and it is raw and harsh, but compelling and utterly readable. I’ve also read ‘Every Last One’ and ‘Blessings’ and have completely enjoyed them.

Well, that’s all for today, folks! Thanks for reading, happy Fall and as always, please leave a comment if you have suggestions or ideas or think I’m full of it!!

Ode to Heartbreak OR Doesn't Anybody Love the Fat Girl?

2013-05-01T13:05:00.000-05:00

For those of you that don't already know, I've recently gone through somewhat of a personal setback. And I started wondering this morning what people do when they think they just can't make it one.more.day. To be honest, in the last three months, I've tried vodka (WHICH only serves to make me even MORE weepy), sleep (which, tbh, works great, but I'm losing 16 hours out of every day), hobbies (I have sewn till my fingers are bloody) and reading. So today, I'm going to review some great heartbreak books (let me clarify, books that are really good to read when you are staying in bed, unwashed and uncombed for 23 days straight and the Chinese delivery people will no longer come to your house and you are surrounded in a sea of tissues and Vicks Vapo-Rub).

First and formost – ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ by Matthew Quick. I read the book before I saw the movie and honestly, was tremendously moved by both. Yall know me. I’m generally not impressed when they make a movie out of a book – it just never seems to measure up. But this time, they did a tremendous job. Yes, a lot was left out, but somehow, they did the movie just right. So. If you haven’t read SLP, you need to. Immediately. And then get the movie.

The story centers around Pat Peoples, who has just been let out of a mental hospital – there has been some sort of incident and he is separated from his wife, Nikki. Pat has a theory that if he works hard at his physical and emotional health he can make everything right and reunite with Nikki. (Can I interject here? In months of sheer denial, I thought much the same. If I worked very hard on my physical and emotional health that I could make a certain someone realize what a great package deal I am. Um, so NOT true) Anyway, Pat meets Tiffany (who is widowed and seems to be depressed and a little bit unfriendly) – they become friends of a sort – and she agrees to act as a go-between for Pat and Nikki, if he will give up football and participate in a dance competition with her. I won’t spoil the ending for you, but suffice it to say that it is a beautiful, poignant story that warmed my heart.

I really gravitate toward feel-good books during a bad time – I understand that the protagonist has to suffer, but I really want them to learn, feel better and find their way to a better situation! (Kind of how I feel about myself, but it is a lot harder to actually DO than to just read about.)

So another thing. Please don’t judge. But I went to a psychic and she answered all my questions very quicky and decisively (and so far, she has been correct, but we’ll see). Interestingly, she also recommended a book for me, called ‘The Soulmate Secret’ by Arielle Ford.

Now, those of you that know me know I am very pragmatic and don’t have a lot of use for self help books – I generally believe that you just have to pull yourself up by your bootstraps and continue on. But I bought this book and I read it in one day. (which is not unusual for me, but a self help book? very unusual) This book is so good and so positive, it really helped pull me out of the funk into which I was headed. It is a book about being open to meeting your soulmate (really meeting new people) and how to let go of old, toxic relationships (and how to stop thinking about them!) and how to be happy just being by yourself. I really enjoyed it, even if there were some words (‘feelingizations’) and new agey things in there that I wasn’t too sure of. Surprisingly, most of it wasn’t even about ‘how to find the love of your life’, it was about how to love yourself. Really liked this one.

The last book that I would recommend in the midst of a heartbreak is, ‘Never Change’ by Elizabeth Berg. You know I love her stories. All of them. Her heroines are normal, non-perfect women who seem to be a little bewildered and somewhat naïve. I can totally relate. Anyway, in this novel, Myra is a home-health nurse who has been called to take care of a new patient. The patient turns out to be a boy she went to high school with (and had a crush on), Chip. The story is about Chip’s last days, which are really very normal and wonderful, thanks to Myra, and about how they end up falling in love just as Chip’s life is coming to an end. It is a beautiful, sad and hopeful story. I hope you like it.

That’s all for today. Yall take care! Chrissy

Halloween!!

2012-10-30T15:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween, yall!! How are things where you are? I tell you what, I feel a little guilty because I've been reading about the 'Frankenstorm' that has hit the East Coast while we are enjoying such beautiful fall weather here. (Reading that more than 8 million are without power and it is sunny and about 60 degress here - little windy, but that makes it feel nice and fallish.) Anyway, we are thinking of all those affected by the storm and praying for a quick recovery. It's only fun to eat cold ravioli out of the can once or twice.

Well, as always, I have been keeping my nose in a book. But having a very hard time finding something GOOD to read. Any suggestions from fellow readers out there? I will read anything. Classics, old, new, it doesn't matter to me. I've been seriously wandering from my normal genres and not making very good picks. Please leave me suggestions in the comments if you think of anything!!

In the last month, I read Hope's Boy by Andrew Bridge (published in February 2008). This is a true story about a boy (Andrew) born to a single mom. While Hope is not a normal mom and shows signs of mental health issues, she and Andrew seem to share a very strong, loving bond. Well. When Andrew turns 7, Hope is institutionalized and with no one to take him, he is place in the foster care system, where he stays for the next 11 years. Andrew ends up with a family that was in it for the check (which, I'm afraid, happens to too many of our foster children) and turned to his teachers and academics for survival. In the end, Andrew goes to college and becomes a lawyer and dedicates his life to children living in the 'system'.

Meh.

WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME? This should have been an inspirational, uplifting book. But honestly, it was just 'meh' to me. It didn't inspire, it didn't make me cry, I didn't think about it once it was done. I don't know. It was fine and easy to read, but not one of those books that grabs you by the throat. And I think it could have been. Eh. 2/5.

So here's the problem. In looking through the bestsellers for something to read, I picked this. 'The Ugly Duchess' by Eloisa James.

...

I don't read thes kinds of books. Honest.

...

Or, I didn't used to. ERMAHGERD!! This book was SO good! I have now read every single one of her books (obsessive, much?), including, 'The Duke Is Mine', 'When Beauty Tamed the Beast', 'A Kiss at Midnight'...

I know what you are thinking.

Most every book has the same premise - smart, spunk heroine and a charming, worldly duke. I can't help it. I loved them. Each and every one of them. I WILL tell you that I enjoyed the Essex Sisters stories very much. There are four books in the series (each about one of four orphaned sisters): 'Much Ado About You' which tells the story of Tess, the oldest sister - then 'Kiss Me Annabel' - then 'The Taming of the Duke' - and last, 'Pleasure for Pleasure.'

In all seriousness, I enjoyed these books and would recommend them for a nice, easy, feelgood read. ALL OF THEM 5/5, but I may no longer be rational as I find myself looking for my lady's maid to help me into my corset in the morning!

Alrighty, then. In an effort to get back on track, I read 'The Academie' by Amy Joy. In response to escalating violence by teenagers/young people (think Columbine), all persons under the age of 23 have to go to a live-in boarding school - the Academie - which is run by the government. Students are not allowed to take personal items, are issued uniforms for school and sleep and are generally not allowed to see their families. They live at the Academie 24/7. Allie is the protagonist. She was just starting college when she was called back to the Academie. Despite working hard and having friends, the Academie is a dismal, militaristic place and Allie gets depressed. **Spoiler Alert** Stop reading here if you think you might want to read this book because I'm about to ruin it for you. Allie and her friends start noticing unusual things happening and in the end, discover that the Academie is nothing more than a sophisticated computer program. All of the kids are actually in a medically induced coma, with this computer program simulating a life for them. At the end of the story, a group of rebels tries to help the kids out of the program because the government has just announced that they will be keeping everyone until they turn 30, rather than 23. Pretty good. BUT, it is a series...so stay tuned. 3.5/5. (What is with all these series? STAHP. Please. Just. STAHP.)

Next, I'm going to read 'The Rook by Daniel O'Malley. We'll see how this one turns out! It is about a secret agency of spies that track supernatural activity in England (Think Harry Potter-style). The reviews pretty much unanimously call it interesting and humorous. We'll see - I'll definitely let you know!!

Hope everyone has a great Halloween!! Don't eat too much candy!

Or Little Debbie Fall Cakes. (Ha. Little Debbie FAT cakes.) ERMAHGERD, I lurve them them SO much.

They are completely addictive. Do NOT start. Don't even try them. Or before you know it, you will be in the bed surrounded by a wad of empty wrappers. I mean, seriously. What can you do EXCEPT go to bed when you've eaten that many fatcakes? Trust me, I speak from experience.

Happy Days!! Bye for now!

Undecideds

2012-08-07T09:59:00.000-05:00

Hey, fellow readers!! What are you reading? I'm kind of in a rut and need some suggestions. What would be a good end-of-summer read?

What have I been up to? Well, my Walking Friend (WF) and I went to the Farmer's Market yesterday, looking for fresh peaches. O.M.G. I hadn't been to the Farmer's Market here in town. They had some hot peppers that smelled AMAZING. I stood over by them, sniffing, for so long that I'm sure the lady thought I was going to try to stuff some in my purse. (Still wish I could think of a reason to buy some). In any case, Southern Living has an absolutely LOVERLY peach cobbler recipe - it is the real thing, too, made with pie crust and layered with peaches. Yumm-er. And btw, below is a picture of their peach-cinnamon ice cream...just in case...you need to go get some peaches.

I'm currently reading 'The Post Birthday World' by Lionel Shriver. First, Let me say that the first novel of Ms. Shriver's that I read was 'We Need to Talk About Kevin' which was a MINDBLOWER. (And I'm sure I've talked about this book before, so let me go ahead and apologize for what's coming.) WNTTAK was about a family that was decimated when Kevin, the son, killed several of his peers in a school shooting (is shooting the right word? He didn't use a gun, he used a bow and arrow as his weapon). In any case, Eva, Kevin's mother, never was very maternal and actually didn't like Kevin very much. So the question that predominates, did Eva not like Kevin because he was 'evil' or maybe, that something was inherently wrong with him? Or did he become the was he was BECAUSE Eva didn't much like him? Very chilling book that really sticks with you. My book club read this book and almost didn't forgive me for choosing it!! It is disturbing to read, but well written and definitely a novel you will remember.

So then I picked up TPBW. This book is about the effects of choices that we make in our daily lives. Initially, it was confusing to read, because each chapter is sort of running parallel to the last. I should explain. The book is based on a pivotal moment in the protagonist's (Irina's) life. She is having a birthday dinner with her husband's friend, Ramsey, and a moment comes when she either chooses to kiss him or doesn't. From then on, the chapters alternate, telling the story of what happens if she DOES kiss him (and eventually cheats on her husband) or DOESN'T kiss him. Very interesting read about how often, in the moment, you don't realize that you are making a decision that can affect the rest of your life. I'm not 100% sure if it works, though. Like I said, it is very confusing (especially if you are not expecting the alternating stories and have to work that out) and it is a very detailed story - you may not want to read that much about what minutiae is going on in Irina's life. I can't say if I would recommend this or not. I sort of like it and, like WNTTAK, you will remember this book, but it takes some work to get through. 3 out of 5 stars.

I've also just finished 'Shine Shine Shine' by Lydia Netzer. I read about this one in People magazine, I think. Really, it's a little strange. Maxon and Sunny grew up together, married and have been together now for 20 years. Maxon is a gifted NASA (I think) engineer who is chosen to go to the moon with a team in order to colonize the moon with robots. Sunny is a beautiful surburbonite who has alopecia (is bald...no hair, no eybrows/lashes..), but tries hard to keep up appearances. They have an autistic son, Bubber, who I think, may be like his Dad (Maxon may be a little autistic, too - in his growing up, they talk a lot about him learning the appropriate emotional responses). Anyway, while Maxon is on his way to the moon, Sunny has a car accident and her wig flies off - so the neighborhood sees her as she really is for the first time. That is the catalyst that makes her realize that she's not normal, Maxon's not normal, Bubber's not normal...and that's ok. It is a very whimsical and unlikely book - liked it - but not really sure of the plot. The story seemed to be a meandering talke of Sunny and Maxon's life. Which is ok, and interesting, but it always aggravates me a little when I feel like we're just wandering, not actually going anywhere!! So. I'm sorry, I don't know whether to recommend this one or not. 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Awhile back, I read 'Room by Emma Donoghue. I seems like this book is loosely based on the story of Jaycee Dugard (kidnapped, held captive, had captor's baby). The story is told from the vantage point of five year old Jack who has only ever lived in the 'Room' with his Ma. The story tells of their days - rationing food, bathing, learning, making do with what little they have. Although Jack doesn't really understand, his Ma locks him up safe in the wardrobe when Old Nick comes to visit her. Eventually, they try to escape from their one room prison where Old Nick has been keeping them. This is another one - pretty interesting read, but a little disturbing. I don't know whether to tell you to read it or not!! 3 out of 5 stars.

I would love to hear from you in the comments!! Please let me know what you are reading and how you are doing!! I've just gotten the book 'Skippy Dies' by Paul Murray. We'll see how it is!!

Summer Reading

2012-08-03T14:17:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!! Hope your summer has been going well - and that you are having good times and keeping cool!

Like the picture? See, in January, this is how I picture my summer. Hot, but with a cool breeze...my toes perfectly painted...a lazy bird aimlessly spiraling in the sky above...

Right. I read entirely too much. I completely forget about the humidity that makes me sweat the SECOND I step out the door, the HOARDS of mosquitos (see those birds in the picture? They are not actually birds. They are Alabama mosquitos.) and the BROILING sun. Breeze? What breeze?

HOWEVER, the good news is that I've been reading a lot of new and varied stuff this summer. One of my favorites was "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn. Initially this book seems

normal, boring almost. I was aggravated. Nick and Amy move from New York to Missouri where they can help with Nick's parents. Normal marriage stuff, blah blah blah...and then Amy disappears on the day of her 5th wedding anniversary. It's crazy!! From what you've read until this point, you could not possibly have any idea about what might have happened. And you certainly wouldn't suspect Nick!! But then, the book starts to turn a little darker and the author teasingly reveals just a bit more. Turns out that Nick is not the handsome good guy that you thought he was, their marriage is not as perfect as you once believed and Amy for SURE isn't the person you think. And let me tell you...I read so much that I am not easily surprised, but this book knocked me flat on my hiney. It is completely NOT what you would expect. Hmmm...I can't decide what I should tell you...so I just won't say anything else. Needless to say, this one is worth the read. I would give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

So then I moved on to "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky. Apparently this novel was originally published in February 1999 by MTV Books (kind of cool, huh? I didn't know MTV had a book division). Now, I was excited to read this for two reasons: it has been made into a movie with Emma Watson (Hermione) and because it is frequently on the American Library Association's list of most frequesntly challenged books. Meaning people want to keep them out of the library. So. I'm nosy. I'll say it out loud. I wanted to see what this was all about. The book is based on letters that the main character, Charlie, is writing to an anonymous person - someone he has never met, but thought he could confide in. Charlie is a freshman in high school and is shy and awkward. After one of his friends commits suicide, he makes friends with two seniors, Sam, and her brother Patrick. The book touches on topics like teen suicide, same sex dating, drug experimentation and burgeoning love. And through it all, Charlie is very likeable and touching. Near the end of the year, though, all his friends are set to graduate and Charlie gets very depressed. Things happen and Charlie's mental state gets worse and he actually has to be checked into a mental hospital - in the hospital, he recalls some memories that he had suppressed from his childhood (which explains a lot about why Charlie is like he is). I know, I know, it sounds a little depressing, but I promise, throughout, Charlie is very likeable and upbeat. This book does not leave you feeling bad. 4 out of 5 stars.

In the interest of discussing something a little, ahem, lighter, I read a book that had been on all the best seller lists for ages. I admit, I don't always like to read best-sellers - I like to read a book BEFORE all the hype. You know, so I don't have any preconceived notions about what I'm reading. Well. I did it. I finally bought 'Bossypants' by Tina Fey. It was originally published in April 2011 and was on the New York Times Bestseller List for 5 weeks. **yawn** Hmm..not impressed. I actually don't like to have a book stuffed down my throat and I think that's why I never picked this one up. Mistake. Yall. This is a really good, funny, easy read. It talks some about Tina's life growing up and her college years...then how she made it on SNL...then about 30 Rock...and her family. All in such a funny and humble way. She is so vibrant and smart and WOW!! She manages a career and family...it's amazing. I'm amazed. And I apologize, Ms. Fey, for not picking this up sooner. 4.5 out of 5 stars.

I think I have a tendency to write only about the books I really like on this blog (because I'm so excited and want so much to share them with you!!, but in my next post, I'm going to include some novels I'm not sure about. In fact, I just finished one that I can't tell ya if I liked it or not.

See yall soon!!! Keep cool....fall is coming....in about....4 months...

2012-06-10T15:27:00.001-05:00

Raining in Auburn today...

A great day for reading and relaxing before Monday comes (ugh)! What have you all been reading? Did you find time to read the "Fifty Shades' series? If you havent, you definitely need to - there was a shortage of the books at the end of March, but I've seen them back at the bookstores and on the ebook-reader lists for sale. Like I said in my previous post about "Fifty", definitely an interesting story and not at all demeaning to women (which I was very afraid of, given the subject matter). I did finish all three of the 'Fifty Shades' books, but I've also been doing a lot of other reading - my excuse for being absent for so long!! (got distracted!)

Just finished "Defending Jacob" by William Landay. Definitely a must-read!! Now, as you know, I'm not really much for crime or mystery novels, but this was a good one!! The premise of the story is that Andy, who is a prosecuter, is working a case, and his son, Jacob becomes a suspect. A 14 year old boy is murdered on the way to school and initially, there is some thought that a convicted pedophile living nearby might have been involved in the murder. In the end, Jacob goes to trial for the murder of his classmate - and I won't tell you what happens, but the ending is shocking and thrilling - the not knowing if Jacob is a child murderer or also an innocent victim. Interestingly, there is discussion of a 'murder' gene in this book. Think about it - children inherit all kinds of things from their parents - being athletic or musically inclined, etc. Do they inherit bad things as well? Andy's father and grandfather are both convicted murderers - so the question becomes, did Jacob inherit the 'murder' gene? He did, but does this gene cause a predisposition to being a murderer?? Very good book - leaves you with a kind of creepy feeling at the end though!

I also finished 'Rage' by Julie Anne Peters. This is a teen book (I know, I know) that raises very interesting questions about teenage relationships. The main character, Johanna, is in a relationship with Reeve, who is a very dark and disturbed young woman. Reeve's home life is not good, and we don't find a lot out about it until the end of the book when a terrible tragedy befalls Reeve and her family. Anyway, the focus of the story is the relationship with Johanna and Reeve, which is abusive, Johanna being very passive and Reeve very angry. The question that this book raises is that a lot of what goes on (the aggressiveness of Reeve, the bruises she leaves on Johanna) is largely ignored. I'm telling you, if this was a typical boy-girl relationship, this type of behavior never would have been tolerated, but when it is a girl-girl relationship, it seems that no one really knows what to do. I enjoyed this book because it really took me outside my comfort zone and made me think!!

On another note, the teenage banana has graduated and will be moving on to college! BAWWWW! Kidding, kidding. Sort of. It is crazy because you have this journey from birth to 18 with your kids and when they FINALLY graduate, you are simultaneously going 'whew, we made it!' and 'OH NO!! Wait!! I'm not ready!! I still have stuff I need to teach him!!'. So to the TB's future wife, sorry, graduation really snuck up on me!!

Ok-hope you all have a wonderful Sunday and read something good!!

Monday

2012-03-05T19:26:00.004-06:00

Hey yall! How was your Monday? Mine was rough. I love my job, but Mondays KILL me. Why is that? I've always wondered what it would be like to be a writer and work from home? BAD! That's how it would be. Seriously. I would probably NEVER get out of my pajama pants. And would I ever do my hair?? Would I ever be presentable for public viewing again? I mean, I want to think that I would be fabulously productive and have a cleaning schedule and be in the process of doing fabulous crafty things (you know? all those amazing things you see on Pinterest? That would totally be what I would be doing. Although, those things would probably involve multiple 2 hour trips to Hobby Lobby and Walmart for supplies, thus making my cleaning/productivity schedule a FARCE.)

So. Anyway. Books. One of the fun things about Kindle are the Kindle short stories. One that I read recently was 'Rules for Virgins' by Amy Tan.

I really enjoy pretty much anything by Amy Tan (author of 'Joy Luck Club' and 'Bonesetter's Daughter) and this was no exception. 'Rules for Virgins' is sort of a monologue by a veteran courtesan, Magic Gourd, to a young girl, Violet. The story is MG giving Violet advice about how to be a more-than-ordinary geisha. As you know (especially if you've read 'Memoirs of a Geisha' by Arthur Golden), being a geisha is not just about sex. It is about singing and storytelling and entertaining. There is the piece about selling one's virginity to the highest bidder - but it is more about making the most of beauty and talent in order to find a good husband. Who new there were so many rules? AND, the young girls have to pay back their 'house' for their training, food, clothes and makeup. The only hope they have of ever getting out of debt is to find a rich husband/boyfriend. And the competition is fierce. That is what Violet is working toward - becoming one of the 'Top Ten Beauties of Shanghai'. I think you would enjoy this - very different, engrossing and quick read! If you are interested in reading something else (maybe something longer - RFV left me wanting more) by Tan (who is definitely an author of the highest order, especially in relating the feel of an ancient culture), try 'Bonesetter's Daughter'.

The story is about Ruth, a Chinese-American woman, and her mother Lu Ling, who maybe developing dementia. Ruth finds a story written by Lu Ling about her life in China. It is SO interesting!! Lu Ling was raised by a mute, burned nursemaid, Precious Auntie. Going further back, we find that PA's father was a bonesetter (like a healer) who knows where to find 'dragon bones' (very valuable for healing purposes). The story is gripping, and the reader learns about Precious Auntie's early life and the tragedies that follow, Lu Ling's life and marriage and how that ties back to Ruth. It is truly and enjoyable read.

On to other news in books - Jodi Picoult has a new book out entitled 'Lone Wolf'. She is one of my favs! Hoping to read that one soon. Okay, yall, Monday is over - we made it through another one!! Talk laters.

Long time no see!!

2012-03-03T21:02:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! Hope you are all doing great! I'm sorry I've been away for so long - I'll try to remedy that. I got a Kindle Fire for Christmas and am trying to make the change over to electronic reading. Actually, to be honest, so far I love my Kindle. I can get so many more books than I could when buying hard copies, but I sort of miss browsing through my books and flipping pages. Just a creature of habit, I guess. Anyway, let's catch up. I recently picked up 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green. Let me preface this review by saying that it is another one of my teen books, but this was an absolute joy to read. The main character, Hazel, has terminal cancer (although her most recent treatment did buy her some time). While at a cancer support group, she meets a boy, Augustus, who had cancer, but is effectively cured. Now, I admit, this sounds like kind of a downer, but it was such a joy to read. The dialogue is smart and funny - and I am a sucker for smart writing - Hazel and Augustus are eminently likeable. The story will draw you in and before you know it, you've finished the book. It didn't end the way I thought it might, but I liked it and it really tugged at my heartstrings. Of all the books I've picked up lately, this is the one I would tell you to read.

Now. There's another book that I am currently reading (haven't finished it yet) that has been getting some press. The title is 'Fifty Shades of Grey'. Apparently it is very popular among ladies who lunch. Now, I don't think anyone would ever mistake me for a lady that lunches, but I'm nosy as heck. So I downloaded it.

Girls, it is crazy good. BUT, you sould be warned that it is about a couple that plays Dom/Sub. I guess that's why it has been in the news - it is a bit controversial. The main character, Christian Grey, is a young, wealthy businessman who has entered into a relationship with a young woman, Ana, who has just graduated from college. Christian introduces her to the Dom/Sub lifestyle. (There are lots of rules and stuff. Who knew?) Anyway, it is not just the juicy stuff - Christian is a bit of a mystery and Ana is a bit hardheaded - all of it together makes for a great read. I can understand some of the uproar surrounding the book (a lot of commenters were saying that it is bad for women, etc.) but I don't really find it degrading to Ana or to women in general. Just a good, juicy, interesting read. Be warned, though, I think it is...(wait for it)...a TRILOGY. So be prepared.

Okay, I'm going to run for now - Ghost Adventures is on. I'll be back soon - promise!! Write and let me know what you've been reading, or if you have any new recommendations for me!!

Working HARD!!

2011-09-29T16:14:00.001-05:00

Hi everybody!! It has been a long time, hasn’t it? Have yall been reading? I tell you what…I’ve been so busy at work that I have been neglecting my blogging!! What’s the DEAL?? Anyway, we’ve got a lot of catching up to do!!

Okay and before I start talking books with you, do any of you out there own any Pandora jewelry?? Well, my friend, KK, took me by a WONDERFUL little shop that sells Pandora rings, necklaces and bracelets...zOMG. I have become obsessed with their stackable rings. I have been hinting to the hubby that I want some of the rings for my birthday (which is coming up!), but I'm also LOVING the charm bracelets (which end up costing quite a bit more - but think about it, he'd have built-in, automatic gifts every holiday for quite awhile!!). Any way, I've put a couple of the rings below...aren't they pretty? Very very reasonably priced. Like I said, they are stackable, so you can mix and match and do pretty much whatever you like.

Okay, so let's talk books.

The first book that I wanted to catch up with you on is entitled ‘The Saving Graces’ by Patricia Gaffney. It is an awesome read!! It is a story about the friendship of 4 women over a period of time. The oldest, Isabel, is very Zen and motherlike, but finds out she has breast cancer which has metastasized to the bone. Lee works as the director of a children’s center, is very organized and determined. She met the love of her life, Henry (a plumber), late and now is struggling to have children. Emma, who is a writer, is sarcastic and funny, but ends up falling in love with a married man. (But she doesn’t do anything. In fact, once they figure it out, they go out of their way to avoid one another). And then there is Rudy, who had a very traumatic childhood. Rudy is beautiful and married to a very successful but controlling man…she also has a lot of mental health issues she is dealing with.

I know this sounds like another run-of-the mill chick book, but I have to tell you that this book is multi-layered – it has depth. And while everyone has problems, and EVERY SINGLE TIME I read it, I cry, it is a wonderful book and I feel pretty good when I finish. It makes me laugh, too, so it is not all gloom and doom and tears.

Currently, I’m re-reading ‘Picture Perfect’ by Jodi Picoult. Now, if I haven’t talked about her before (and I’m pretty sure I have), I really like her. This particular book? Eh. Not so much. JP has written some real wing-dingers and this just isn’t one of them. The story opens with a woman with amnesia wandering near a graveyard in LA. She is found by Will, a Native American police officer. Well, as the story unfolds, you find out that her name is Cassie, she is an anthropologist and she is married to Alex, who is a very famous actor. As Cassie regains her memory, she finds that Alex is very abusive and she runs away to the reservation where Will’s family lives.

As I said, this book is not BAD, it is just not as good as it gets for JP. I just don’t think it is up to her usual standards. :/

In the meantime, I’ve also finished ‘If Tomorrow Comes’ by Sidney Sheldon. You’ve just got to love books from this time period (I know, I know, I’m back in the 80s) – everything is just larger than life. In this book, the heroine, Tracy Whitney is wrongfully convicted of a crime, ends up exonerated, but vows to get revenge and starts a life of high dollar crime. LOVES IT!!

Speaking of crime done right, have yall ever read ‘Honest Illusions’ by Nora Roberts? Okay, ignore the cover because it looks like a regular old romance novel and it is anything but. The main characters are Roxy and Luke and their family, who are magicians living in New Orleans by day and high dollar thieves at night. Who can make thieves SO incredibly likeable? Um, Nora. Roberts. This book is definitely a 5 out of 5. If you haven’t, please please please read it.

Oh, and ps, the Baby T-Rex is finally reading ‘Hunger Games’. Ha. I win.

Ok, time for me to go! Yall take care!! Please feel free to comment!

Fall

2011-09-24T12:09:00.001-05:00

Well, as of September 23, it is officially fall in Auburn, AL. That means highs in the low 80's and lows in the 60's. It is beautiful outside. Football weather. And although I default to the Auburn Tigers when I have to, I'm actually a Razorback...and Arkansas plays Alabama today. Wooooo Pig!! Go Razorbacks! Should be a good game - Arkansas is ranked #14 and Alabama is ranked #3.

Just sayin.

Ironically, I just finished a book called 'Fall' by Colin McAdam. On the surface, it sounds like a good book - takes place in a private boarding school where most of the characters are diplomats children. The story is told by Noel, who is a bit of a loner, and is mostly about his relationsip with his roommate Julius (who is an athlete and revered by most everyone) and his girlfriend, Fall. Fall disappears one day and the story of how this happen is very dark and horrifying. I realize you might think I'm shallow, but I most often do not enjoy books that aren't 'feel good' or reveal a character that is unlikeable. This book was that way. I didn't feel good after reading it. And I really had to force myself to finish it. There are some that might enjoy this type of literature, but I didn't. I wouldn't recommend this one. Sorry, all.

So, in an effort to get the bad taste out of my mouth, I reverted to a couple of my favorites. Now, I'm not big on the biographies, but I have to admit that Tori Spellings books are favorites of mine. I picked up 'Mommywood' in an airport (impulse purchase much?) and SO enjoyed it. I like how she comes across as such a normal person, with the daily struggle of balancing her career with motherhood and how the press is a constant presence in her life. TS's books are funny and really enjoyable. She's kind of kooky and worries about the funniest things - which is how I feel a lot of the time. Crazy, isn't it, that I feel like I can relate to a major hollywood star, but that is how TS makes you feel. She has invited you into her life and just really makes you feel like a part of it. Many times, she says that people come up to her and speak like they are old friends, and that's how her books make you feel. She has a real talent for coming across as very down-to-earth and approachable.

So while I was at it, I re-read 'Uncharted Territori', which is the book that follows 'Mommywood' and chronicles her struggles with her health, being the mother of 2 children under 3 and again, balancing work and home. I really think these books are worth the read. And I tell you, it is kind of decadent, the glimpses into what her uber-rich childhood must have been like. Try it, I think you might be surprised!! I know I was. Pleasantly so.

Okay everybody, have a good weekend!! We'll talk soon!!

Left Neglected

2011-09-21T09:55:00.001-05:00

Hey everybody? How's it going? Starting to feel like fall outside! (which, in Alabama, just means that the daytime high is like 89. And you know what? It feels GOOD outside.) Speaking of fall, we are getting the Teenage Banana's senior pictures made on October 1. We are going to do them outside. I am SUPER excited because the foliage should be beautiful just about then, AND we are taking our beagle, Tard (not his real name), to be in several of the shots. I just can't wait! So anyway, I finished re-reading a book by Lisa Genova entitled 'Left Neglected'. It is about a career woman with three children (busy busy busy) who is trying to do it all. She is in a car crash and sustains injury to the right side of her brain and this causes a condition known as 'left neglect'. Having left neglect causes her brain to ignore everything on the left side of her body. She can't see her arm, she can't see people who stand to her left - all of which affects her ability to dress, walk, even maneuver a wheelchair. Sarah , the main character, struggles with her recovery and the fact that total recovery may never come. It forces her (and her family) to rethink the way that they live. Let me just say that the author is a neuroscientist, but she does an absolutely BRILLIANT job of making this book accessible. She does a wonderful job of describing the condition and rehabilitation without making it too clinical, or forgetting how something like this affects not only the patient, but the patient's family. Really, really enjoyed this book.

Also by this author is a book called 'Still Alice'. This read is absolutely heartbreaking. Alice, who is a professor at Harvard, is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's Disease. I think she is diagnosed when she is about 50. Apparently, those who are diagnosed with the early onset form, progress much more rapidly than patients that are older when diagnosed. I enjoyed this book, too, but not as much as 'Left Neglected'. It wasn't quite as engrossing. If I had to pick, I think I would skip this one. Still enjoyable, but I AM a healthcare professional, so I might have liked it just because I'm kind of nerdy that way.

So. Now onto my food for the day. There is a place in Auburn called 'Chicken Salad Chick'. All they sell is chicken salad (we in the South have elevated chicken salad to an art. Seriously) Check out their website:

http://www.chickensaladchick.com/

Take a look at their menu! It is divine!! My favorites are: Classic Carol (the original), Buffalo Barclay (which is chicken salad made with buffalo wing sauce...YUM) and Barbie-Q (made with a barbeque sauce). For those of you who like a little bit of sweet in your chicken salad, they have Fancy Nancy (made with apples, pecans and grapes) or Cranberry Kelli (made with cranberries and almonds). And OH. MY. GOODNESS. They have this grape salad that is to die for. I don't know what's in it, but I know I love it.

That's all for today folks!! Come to Auburn, we'll get some chicken salad and go to the bookstore!! Have a good day!!

Books by Morticia

2011-09-18T20:47:00.000-05:00

Hey yall! Morticia Addams here. I tried to, um, color my hair this weekend and I went just a wee bit dark with it. I'm naturally dark brown, but I picked up a box that said 'darkest brown'. Memo to self: darkest brown is actually black. My hair is now so black it is almost blue. My kids accused me of trying to go 'Goth'. Did they even have Goth when I was in high school? Moot point, really. I am now Goth. I also see that this is the beginning step to having purple hair when I get old. Older, that is. BUT, it is really kind of perfect, because we are getting closer to Halloween and I was trying to think of good Halloween books. Classic Halloween books. But first things first.

This weekend I finished a book of short stories entitled 'Strange Candy' by Laurell K. Hamilton. (I'm on a short story kick right now. Don't worry, it will pass) LKH is the author of the Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, series (which I haven't read, but my sister-in-law (SIL) has and to which she is completely addicted). LKH also writes the Merry Gentry series, which I HAVE read. Merry is a faerie princess in the Unseelie Court, living in America, for the most part. I'm generally not much on the fantasy genre, but really have enjoyed this series. So, I wanted to read this book of short stories. With stories like 'Those Who Seek Forgiveness' (this one is about a woman whose husband died suddenly and she wants to raise him as a zombie so he can forgive her for things she has done) and 'Here Be Dragons' (the title of this story is somewhat misleading, it is about a sociopathic psychic child), I think you'll enjoy this book for the most part. There are stories about elves and sorcery, which aren't my favorites, but one entitled 'A Lust of Cupids' makes the whole book worth a second look. (I know, the cover of the book might make you a tad embarassed to carry it with you to the doctor's office, but if you can get past that, there's some good stuff in there).

Another one that I want to read, but haven't yet is 'The Graveyard Book' by Neil Gaiman. It is about a family that is stabbed to death in the very beginning of the book. The only family member that escapes is the 18-month old baby who toddles over to a graveyard and is taken in by the ghostly residents. They name him Nobody (Bod). The story follows Bod from babyhood to his teens. This book is for ages 10 and up, but was named on Time Magazines top 10 fiction books of 2008. I'm dying to read this one!!

The last one on my list, is 'halloween' by various authors. This one is on my 'To Read' list. I'll let you know.

In the meantime, this is Morticia, signing off.

Unwind

2011-09-17T09:40:00.001-05:00

'Unwind' by Neal Shusterman was recommended to me by my running friend. RF said it was a very unusual read. I have to be honest and confess that I'm always looking for something unique to read. Let me read the synopsis to you. "The second Civil War was fought over reproductive rights. The chilling resolution: Life is inviolable from the moment of conception until age thirteen. Between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, however, parents can have their child 'unwound', whereby all of the child's organs are transplanted into different donors, so life doesn't technically end. Connor is too difficult for his parents to control. Risa, a ward of the state, is not talented enough to be kept alive. And Lev is a tithe, a child conceived and raised to be unwound. Together, they may have a chance to escape-and to survive." <crickets> Oh. my. gosh. Sounds good, doesn't it? I tell you that this book does not disappoint. A definite must-read - I really enjoyed it. This book is intended for 7th grade and up, but great for adults, too. (how come the teens get all the good books?

I say that teens get all the good books, but one I read awhile back, 'The Gargoyle' by Andrew Davidson, is definitely a GREAT, unique read.

If you haven't yet, you should read this. It starts out a little harsh, with a car wreck where the main character is very badly burned. While he's in the hospital, he meets Marianne, a sculptress of gargoyles. It is sometimes a disturbing read, but SO wonderful. You'll love this book. Trust me.

In the meantime, I have finished re-reading 'The Dead Zone' by Stephen King. Someone had mentioned this book and I realized that I hadn't read it in YEARS, so I zipped over to the bookstore and picked it up. I'm so glad I got it!! This is not really your typical Stephen King horror story. The main character, Johnny, falls into a coma for 5 (?) years, I think, and when he wakes up (long after anyone expects him to), he has developed a special ability...to occasionally see the future when he touches someone. This is one to put on your list if you like SK, but don't especially like horror. Another one to take a look at is his book of short stories, 'Just After Sunset'. I really really love Stephen King, most especially his short stories. He always surprises me.

Well, hope yall enjoy your Saturday!! One last thing. I really love Gerbera daisies (is the hub reading this blog??)

And chocolate cake with white icing. :)

And pico de gallo. The Pioneer Woman's recipe. Have you checked out her blog and recipes? You definitely to. The web address is:

http://thepioneerwoman.com/

Check out her recipe section. She has THE best cinnamon rolls (with maple icing) EVER. And if I can make them, so can you. One word of advice? When you bake them? Do it in a glass pan. I did it in a metal 13 X 9 and they burned....but when I made them in glass? They were DIVINE.

And her pico de gallo. A must eat.

Make some. Eat it. Today. While reading.

Old Teenage Favorites

2011-09-14T17:18:00.001-05:00

Hey everybody!! How's it going today? It's still hot in Alabama. I was thinking about what books I read as a teenager. I spent a lot of my childhood reading - I loved to spend the weekend at my Grandma's house, because I could read ALL weekend long (and she made homemade pizza every Saturday for lunch. Who knew it was so easy to become a favorite Grandma?) I got to thinking about what I read - there was a lot of Judy Blume, some Beverly Cleary...other angst filled teen romances. I read Sylvia Plath's 'The Bell Jar' and 'Go Ask Alice' Anonymous. But my favorite thing to do on the weekends was read comics...I know, I know (remember, this is before comics were cool).

Remember the Archie comic series? Oh my GOSH, I loved this series! Do you guys remember Archie and Jughead? Betty and Veronica? (were you Team Betty or Team Veronica? This was so before Team Edward and Team Jacob. And, btw, I was totally Team Betty)

Remember 'Forever' by Judy Blume? About Katherine and Michael? This was my first 'grown up' book, where the main characters were in an 'adult' relationship. (Have you noticed the completely out of proportion number of 'quotation' marks in this paragraph?) I don't know if my Mom would have objected to this book, but I got it into my head that she would have, so I hid it. (I'm completely sure she must have known I had it - in fact, who else could have bought it for me?) But this book ran rampant through the, what, 7th grade? Wonder what ever happened to that book? Wonder what happened to the rest of those books?

I also liked 'Deenie' by Judy Blume. Did you guys ever read this one? It was about a girl whose mother wanted her to be a model, but in a routine check, the doctor found out she had scoliosis and she had to start wearing a back brace. (Remember those 'routine' scoliosis checks? Do they still do those? Hmm. There are those pesky quotation marks again.)

'Tiger Eyes' was a good one, too. The main character, Davey, is trying to cope with the murder of her father and she meets a young man named Wolf, who is dealing with a tragedy of his own, too.

Another one that I liked was 'Fifteen' by Beverly Cleary. It is a pretty innocent romance, with the main story concentrating on the relationship between Jane and her crush, Stan. This book was originally published in the 1950s, so it is a pretty wholesome read.

Lastly, I just loved the Trixie Belden books. I must have been younger, reading these, but they were just SO good!! Trixie was a teenage sleuth (probably modeled after Nancy Drew), but she felt like a much more contemporary one.

Well, that's all for now, hope everyone has had a GREAT day!! Talk soon.

Cupcakes and Books

2011-09-13T20:30:00.001-05:00

So. Yesterday at work, we had a meeting and because everyone is doing SUCH a good job, we had cupcakes. Oh. my. gosh. The one you see here to the left is called the 'Caramel Sugar Mama'. Holy cow. It is caramel cake topped with caramel buttercream frosting, drizzled with caramel and topped with Sugar Babies. Do you remember Sugar Babies? Thought they disappeared sometime in my late childhood. I heard several people say that the frosting was the best thing they had ever eaten in their life. The second type we had was the 'White Midnight Magic'. My personal favorite. Dark chocolate cake with dark chocolate chips topped with white cream cheese frosting and chocolate chips. Heaven.

The last type (pictured above) is called 'Kentucky Bourban Pie'. We didn't actually have this kind, but zOMG. Doesn't it look DIVINE?? It is bourban cake with pecans and chocolate chips, topped with cream cheese frosting, pecans, chocolate chips, and drizzled with caramel and ganache. Do I really need to say anything else? Yes, I am completely positive that these concoctions have 4,000 calories and require 33 hours on the treadmill to burn off the calories ingested, but I really have not tasted anything better.

So. On to the books. I just finished 'Night Road' by Kristin Hannah. Have you guys ever read anything by KH? She's really a wonderfully 'feel good' kind of author. The story 'Night Road' is about a set of twins (boy and girl) and their less fortunate friend. The twins, Mia and Zack, have a great life, physician father, stay-at-home mother - they are very blessed. The friend, Lexi, becomes Mia's best friend and the love of Zack's life. In their senior year, tragedy befalls Mia, Zack and Lexi. (WARNING: SPOILER ALERT) At a party, Mia and Zack get blisteringly drunk, Lexi less so. Anyway, Lexi ends up trying to drive everyone home and has an accident, killing Mia. Long story short, Lexi ends up in prison, pregnant with Zack's child. I know it doesn't sound like it, but this is a GREAT book. It starts out golden and wonderful, then falls apart. Although it has a rough middle, the ending is very uplifting, with Zack and Lexi trying again. My absolute favorite line in the book is something Lexi says after her daughter, Gracie, is born. "She says when God forgives you, he grants you Grace." <snif> I would probably give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. I really liked this one.

Another one written by KH that I read is 'Winter Garden'. This one is about two daughters, Meredith and Nina, who try to get closer to their emotionally distant Russian-born mother after the death of their father. This one was a little bit harder for me to like as it is not quite as feel-good. The mother is not as likeable. But as you progress in the book, you understand why the mother is so strange and distant - as she shares a story that happened in WWII Leningrad. It is a heartbreaking story. I like it, but maybe only a 3 out of 5.

Most of KH's books (I think I've read them all) are definitely worth the read, but I especially liked 'Firefly Lane'. (Probably even better than 'Night Road', but only because it is not as sad) It is a coming of age story of two best friends, Kate and Tully. You'll love it. If I had to choose only one of hers to read, it would be this one. (Although the Amazon.com book review called it a little too 'Lifetime' tv, I think it is great and it has just a little bit of an edge to it.)

I don't know if she's got anything new coming out, but I would think not very soon, since 'Night Road' is still so new (available only in hardback). Anyway, let me know what you think of KH and DEFINITELY let me know in the comments if you have any new books you think I should read!!

I'll leave you with one last cupcake. Gigi's cupcakes. Available in Auburn and across the country. Ch-c-c-check them out!! (Look. I warned you that I was a nerd.) The Cherry Limeade cupcake (this one's for you, Helen!!)

Cherry cake topped with lime icing, sugar crystals and a straw!! Whoa. Wish I could make a cupcake that looked like that. Mine usually look like:

Happy reading!! Talk to yall later!!

The Teenage Banana's Book Recommendations

2011-09-12T18:44:00.001-05:00

So we did the Baby T-Rex's favorite books - now let's talk about some recommendations for the young teens. The teenage banana has so very kindly put together his top FIVE recommendations for young teens.

Number FIVE:

The Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz. These books are about a teenage spy named Alex Rider - there are multiple books (maybe nine?), so plenty to read.

Number FOUR:

The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien. This one looks really good and I might have to read it, although this is not really my preferred genre. It is a collection of stories about the Vietnam War. From what I read, the stories are about the same platoon of soldiers. Just the titles of the short stories (for example, 'The Ghost Soldiers' or 'Speaking of Courage') makes me want to read the book, even though I'm not crazy about war stories.

Number THREE:

The Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan. I read these books with the TB. Very good series, is based on the the mythology of the Gods of Olympus. Zeus and Poseidon are the main stars of the series. Very readable, even for adults. The first book has been made into a movie, but TB and the BTR tell me that the movie isn't quite as good as the book. (But we're biased. We love the books - so take our movie recommendations with a grain of salt!!)

Number TWO:

The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan. This series is based on Egyptian mythology. I am reading this series, too, and find that I like it even better than the Percy Jackson books.

Number ONE:

TB LOVES these books. They are manga books - so they are read back to front. Now, I haven't read these yet, but the illustrations TOTALLY make you want to read them.

Many thanks to the TB for his book recommendations!! See yall a little later!!

The Baby T-Rex's Best Children's Books

2011-09-09T20:14:00.001-05:00

Hi everybody!! It's the WEEKEND!! Woot! So, the Baby T-Rex wanted to share his favorite children's books. I think we all have books that we remember from our childhood - or even that we remember reading our kids. I think some of my favorite kids books are the ones I read my kids. (In fact, as we were compiling our list, BTR and I were re-reading our most favorite kids books - it was THE best time! You know I'm a big old nerd, right?) We tried to limit it to five books, but we got carried away and I think we ended up with, like, eight. So read below and see if you recognize any of these!!

Number EIGHT:

'Green Eggs and Ham' by Dr. Seuss. It was a toss up between this one and 'Cat in the Hat'. We decided this was the better of the two. The reason this is number eight and not number one, as many people would think... is because of the fact that it is so over-populated, and once you've read it, it's nice, but you probably won't want to read for a while...

Number SEVEN:

Have yall read any of Mercer Mayer's children's books? I got these from my aunt originally, but loved them ALL so much. (And actually, I put this one on the list...Momma T-Rex's choice this time!)

Number SIX:

Classic. This shows that everyone has one of those days, but Alexander's is a little bit worse, probably.

Number FIVE:

This children's book is more of the unknown type, but this doesn't mean it isn't one of the best. This shows a few days in the life of a worm, living like a human, but still adding a few aspects of worm in there. ('Diary of a Worm' is very near and dear to the BTR's heart.)

Number FOUR:

A great read where Grover tries to hide himself inside the pages of the book. No Peeking! HILARIOUS.

Number THREE:

This book is a classic. If you haven't read it, you definitely should. I don't even want to tell you about it. It is SUCH a heart wrencher, too. (sniff) Love it. Would even be perfect as a Christmas gift for a grown-up. (I'm stuck on Christmas ever since the Hallmark ornaments came out)

Number TWO:

Another CLASSIC Grover. Read it. That is all.

And the NUMBER ONE BABY T-REX PICK:

'Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus'! If you haven't seen, heard, tasted, touched, or read this book, my friend, do it. Right now. This earns the number 1 title because it's sooooooooo funny! READ IT. This book has a few sequels, but about different subjects. This one shows a pigeon who wants to drive a bus while the bus driver is away, but he puts you in charge to make sure he doesn't. No matter how much pleading he may do, or bribing, don't let the pigeon drive the bus!

Hope you enjoy and maybe re-read a few of these? Many thanks to our guest blogger and co-author, the BTR!

My Favorite Things

2011-09-08T20:16:00.007-05:00

Hi everyone!! I was reading another blog earlier today and saw a blog that listed the author's favorite things. I thought that was kind of fun, so I wanted to share my all time favorite books with you! Actually, I was going to list the top FIVE books, but yall know me...I can never limit myself to just FIVE. I was able to narrow it down to SIX.

Number SIX:

Are you surprised?? Guys, I LOVE LOVE LOVE Nora Roberts. I mean I love everything she writes, but this one is one of my absolute favorites. It takes place in Ireland, with an American writer as one of the main characters. It is part of a trilogy (What IS it with all of the trilogies lately? Have you noticed that they are everywhere?? WHEW.) and all of the books in the trilogy are worth the read but this is an excellent read. NR is an intelligent writer and, well, she just makes you feel good.

Number FIVE:

Is there anything to say about this book? I love it. I re-read it every year. Do yall remember reading this in high school? I don't think I really appreciated it then...but after we watched the movie (note to self: another movie that was probably as good as the book) I really got into the plot and read it. Very very good read. You know, sometimes classics are hard to read (like Jane Austen's 'Emma'. Great book, a little hard to read, though. Imho anyway.)

Number FOUR:

Another great classic here. Frances Hodgson Burnett co-authored another great classic entitled 'The Secret Garden', which is a good one. Even if you have boys, I think they would enjoy 'The Secret Garden'. 'A Little Princess' is a wonderful story about a very rich little girl, whose father dies and she is left orphaned. The world is very cruel to her, she is hungry and has to leave school to work...but things turn around in the end and the story leaves you almost glowing. If you haven't read this book in awhile (or, heaven forbid, ever..) you should give it a whirl.

Number THREE:

Honestly, I didn't think I'd like this one. It is about a family from Georgia that goes to Africa on a Christian mission (father is a preacher) and so much happens there to change their lives. Barbara Kingsolver is a wonderful writer and each chapter is written in a different character's voice. You also learn a lot about Africa and its political history. Now, let me be honest...I DO NOT like historical or political novels...but this book does it in a kind of sneaky way, so you end up being a lot more knowledgable about Africa than you were when you started.

Number TWO:

I've probably said enough about this book. Read it. That is all.

Number ONE:

Best book ever. A little confusing. And, for those of you that saw the movie, it definitely does not do the book justice. (I know, I know...I'm biased against the movies when I've read the book first. Sorry!)

Okay. That's it. Let me know what YOUR favorite books are! I'm trying to get a guest blogger on, my BFF, because she likes a whole DIFFERENT type of book than I do. Let me hear ya HOLLA!! Holla for the guest blogga!! (heh. I'm sincerely sorry. I apologize for that.)

One last thing. My top FIVE foods:

Number FIVE:

Anything cherry.

Number FOUR:

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. Beats the pants off of Oatmeal Creme Pies. Limitation: Only available after Thanksgiving. :/

Number THREE:

Olive Garden Salad. You know you agree.

Number TWO:

Shotgun Dan's pizza. Totally worth the trip to Sherwood, Arkansas for it.

Number ONE:

Chick-fil-A sauce on waffle fries. Nirvana.

Peculiar Children

2011-09-08T13:34:00.001-05:00

Have you seen this book in the bookstores? I've been wanting to get it, but just haven't done it. I really think I'm going to swing by and get it this afternoon. Doesn't the cover look just AMAZING? When I first noticed this book, I kind of automatically assumed it was a kind of horror story, but I don't think it really is. According to Amazon.com's book review, the main character, Jacob is very close to his grandfather, who tells him stories and shows him old photographs about a place he used to live. Apparently, the grandfather tells these INCREDIBLE stories about levitating girls and invisible boys and Jacob is entranced. Well, the grandfather dies and Jacob takes a journey to this place and finds the children in the photographs are alive and well!! (gasp) And best of all, there are old-timey photographs interspersed in the book. Take a look at this one below:

YERK!! Creepy, huh? But the reviews I've read don't make it sound like a horror story, more of a fantasy/adventure/kind of eccentric type book. I'll let you know.

I've just recently finished 'What We Keep' by Elizabeth Berg. I really love her writing style, which is pervasive throughout all of her writing. In this book, Marian (mother) leaves her husband and ends up alienating her two daughters, Ginny and Sharla. Ginny is the main character, sweet and steady, and we are following her on a trip to see her mother after a 35 year absence. The thing is, is that Marian is not really likable, and honestly, she is kind of weird, but the funny thing is...at the end of the book, you figure out that the way that Ginny saw her mother and her mother's situation as a young girl was not exactly how it was. It is really very surprising. You find out that her mom WASN'T a flake like you thought. It kind of takes your breath away, really...thinking of all the time that Ginny and Sharla wasted, being angry with their mother. Anyway, good read. But Elizabeth Berg almost always is. Another favorite of mine that EB wrote is entitled 'Open House'.

I truly love this book. The heroine (gads, does anyone say heroine anymore??), rather, the protagonist, Samantha is completely likable and her friend, King is, too. You need to read this. I saw that they made a TV movie out of it. Anybody see it? I couldn't. I like the book too much and if it wasn't good, I'd probably have to get in the bathtub (you know, the only place moms can go to be alone) and CRY.

So. There's that. I also just finished 'Mixed Blessings' by Danielle Steel. I wanted to give her ONE more try. Actually it is not bad...and my DS friend said that I should really read 'Kaleidoscope', that it is MUCH better. But of course, that was NOT one of my choices at the Thrift Store the other day. So. This particular DS book was about 3 couples with infertility issues. Let me summarize: It all works out by page 150. That is all. Don't do it folks. If anything, try one of her older books or maybe even 'Kaleidoscope'. If you do, let me know how it is!

Also, for those of you that live in a town with a Hastings (they do books, videos, and music), you need to check them out. They are THE bomb. They sell new AND used books, so it is a great place to find a bargain. ALSO, though, they let you bring books back and they give you store credit. So, if you have books that you don't want to keep, you can take them back and buy others!! (It just doesn't get much better than that, folks.) They do have some restrictions as to what they'll take back, so make sure you check out their website, or call your local store (our people here in Auburn were great to explain things to me) before you go in.

Okay yall, I have more to say (heh, don't I always?), but I'd better go for now. Have a good day and as always, please feel free to leave a comment - I LOVE getting them!!

Zoya and New Books on my List

2011-09-06T08:42:00.008-05:00

Good morning everyone!! I don't know about you, but we are having a nice fallish day today. This morning, taking the teenage T-Rex to school, it was about 60 degrees. Of course, the nice weather will only last probably about a day or so and then we'll be back to summer. heh.

I finished Zoya by Danielle Steel this weekend. It wasn't putrid, but it WAS predictable. Let me give you the plot summary:

-Young Zoya is living in Russia, family is kin to the Tsar, very rich
-Tsar is overthrown, Zoya now poor
-Zoya meets a man, now very rich
-Man dies, stock market crashes, Zoya now poor
-Zoya meets new man, rich again
-Man dies, but we are close to the end of the book, so Zoya remains rich

And that's the jist of the book. Not horrendous, but definitely not a book that you can sink your teeth into. Good for something light - easily put down and picked up again.

Now. I've been browsing Amazon.com (trouble) and have a few NEW books I want to share with you.

'Never Knowing' by Chevy Stevens. It sounds SO good. The main character, Sara, decides to find her biological parents.
Her mother rejects her, but Sara finds out that her father is a killer who hunts, rapes and kills women. Sara's mother is the only victim to survive and Sara is the product of that attack.
And now what will happen if Sara's father finds her, or worse yet, what if she is like her father? What if murder is in the blood?

YEEP! I actually shivered when I wrote that last sentence.
Doesn't it sound SO good? I'm definitely putting this on my 'to read' list.

I have read on of Chevy Stevens's books before - her first novel, I believe, entitled 'Still Missing'.

This was a good one, too. A female realtor at an open house is abducted by a man who showed up, posing as a potential buyer. Chillingly, we find out that he has been stalking her and planning this for months. He takes her to a remote cabin in the woods and holds her there, where she must be completely submissive. Annie is made to dress a certain way, follow certain rules, and she is never, EVER let out. The good news is, after a period of time (a long period of time, maybe a year? I can't remember), Annie escapes. The thing is, after she escapes, she struggles with trying to deal with the trauma and take back her life. Can you imagine? It reminds me of that man who took the young girl hostage many years ago and made her live in an underground, closed off set of rooms. Terrifying.

Also on my list is 'Crossed' by Allie Conde. It is the second book in the 'Matched' trilogy. It is a teen book, but definitely worth the read. Don't be fooled by these teen books, yall, they have very refreshing plots and are for sure worth the read.

'The Death Cure' by James Dashner. Number three in the 'Maze Runner' trilogy

And last but not least, 'The Litigators' by John Grisham. Sound SO good! I love JG. Okay, gotta run. Happy reading!!

Generics - What's the Deal?

2011-09-04T18:13:00.000-05:00

Okay, what's the story? You all know I'm a pharmacist and that I completely, 100% believe in generic drugs. All of my family's prescriptions are filled generically when possible, and I feel good about it. BUT, what about generic food and cleaning products? I'd like to get some opinions from those of you out there that are reading this (uhm, that would be my mom, Helen and...well...basically, just a couple others. heh. Thanks, guys, I appreciate your support!! One day we'll all be FAMOUS! I guess I should stop eating those oatmeal creme pies soon if we're going to be hounded by the paparazzi...I know, I'm delusional. It's a problem.) We heard from my friend Lil K, about extreme couponing, and we all know how popular it is right now, especially in this economy. But what about generic food?

What started my thinking about this topic was WalMart this weekend. Yall know I live in a college town and I have to plan my grocery shopping as strategically as an Army General. You want to miss the crowd (Friday night = bad because they drop off BUSLOADS of students to shop) BUT still hit it when there are products on the shelf. Saturday afternoon = equally bad because our local WalMart looks like a herd of locusts hit it. Try to find Velveeta Shells n Cheese, Rotel, or hot dogs on Saturday afternoon, I dare you. I haven't been able to get these products for at least a month. But I digress. When I went to the store this weekend, they were all out of Cascade gel. I mean, there was not ONE container on the shelf in ANY size. None. Zero. Zip. Nada. I was so mad. I really did not want to come back...and there WERE generic bottles on the shelf, at a significant price reduction. SO. I picked one up.

And it seems to be working just fine. So let me ask you this. What are the acceptable, tasty generic foods? I use generic noodles, the WalMart brand milk, cheese (but only the block cheese, never the cheese slices)...but I have never used generic cleaning products or canned goods or juice. I just don't know. Admittedly, I am somewhat of a food snob. My Dad was in the Army, so we always shopped at the Commissary (where things are incredibly cheap. Helen still shops there rather than WalMart because it is so much cheaper than even WalMart). My indoctrination into the real world of food prices began in college where I found out that things are very expensive in the civilian world. Goodness.

Helen was, and is, very particular about her food. Food and books. Looking for quality there. Growing up, we didn't stray much. Once we found a brand, we stuck with it.

Now, feeding a family of five, which includes 2 teenage boys and the hub (and well, keeping me in creme pies...) it is EXPENSIVE. So let me know what you think, I'm very interested in your opinions. Generic chips? Ok or no? Canned vegetables? Yes or no? Juice, cheese slices, ketchup? What say you, moms, cooks and couponers?? Let me know!

Yall take care and have a great Labor Day!! It's gonna rain here, I think. Tropical Storm Lee. But that's okay, is there anything better than a book on a rainy day??

Teen Books and Oatmeal Creme Pies - My Hidden Indulgences

2011-09-04T08:59:00.004-05:00

My obsession (is that the right word? Maybe not. It's like Little Debbie oatmeal creme pies. They're yummy, but you know you really shouldn't be eating them once you turn 40. So you hide in the laundry room and eat them anyway, because if nobody sees you with one? The calories don't count.) with teen fiction started with 'The Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins. It was given to me as a gift by one of my besties, ITGirl (can you believe I ALMOST spelled that ITGurl? Yikes. May be time to give up the teen books for realz. heh. Little joke there.) 'Hunger Games' was WAY different, from the very start of the book, but in a really, really good way. It is a trilogy, with 'Catching Fire' and 'Mockingbird' following soon after. This is an AMAZING series, and I urge you to give it a try, even though it is a teen fiction series. I found it riveting and inventive and could NOT put it down.

I'm going to admit something that I probably shouldn't. My interest in teen fiction ACTUALLY started with the book shown below. (I know)

In my defense, I saw the book EVERYWHERE and just decided to read it. This was before the movie, before the hype. I found the first book to be very simplistic, but it hooked me anyway. My favorite of the four? Definitely 'Breaking Dawn'.

Oh, and I'm 100% 'Team Jacob'. Always have been.

So, after my initial foray into teen fiction, I tried out these...

Both are trilogies, I believe, and VERY worthwhile reads. If you want to try something a little different, give this genre a try. DEFINITELY a guilty pleasure.

Have a good day, yall and this one's for you!! ;)

I'll Take Manhattan

2011-09-03T20:07:00.001-05:00

I'm still on my 80s kick. Just finished 'I'll Take Manhattan' by Judith Krantz. I love this story!! The main character is Maxi, who just should not be likeable as she is rich, beautiful and spoiled (totally unrelatable to me...I just bought a pair of gray capri leggings today and they are as wide as they are tall!! eep.). But you can't help but like Maxi. She makes the wrong choices in men (and who among us haven't?), money (ditto) and careers. But she's spunky, loyal and a fighter and you just have to like her. After her father dies, her mother marries his brother and the brother proceeds to try to destroy Maxi's father's publishing empire - but Maxi fights back and comes through in the end...finding her true love and having a WONDERFUL daughter along the way. Not deep, but definitely an entertaining beach read.

So. What next? I can't lie. I'm currently reading a book of short stories by Jennifer Weiner called 'The Guy Not Taken'. These are pretty good - I'll talk about them next time (there's a story in there that CRACKS me up, about a woman who is getting married and has been on the cabbage soup diet for 2 weeks and all she can do is fart - I can so RELATE.) Are you familiar with any of Jennifer Weiner's books? 'Good in Bed' or maybe 'Then Came You'? Another good author - great beach read!

So what next?

I need to read 'Cataloochee' for my book club.

I also want to read one of my new Danielle Steel books that I picked up at the thrift store. I got 'Zoya' and I really want to start that.

We'll see! I'll let you know. In the meantime, keep on reading and shopping yall!!

Do I want a Kindle?

2011-09-02T15:50:00.005-05:00

Okay, all you e-readers out there. Do I want a Kindle? You know how I am. I love me a book. I love the way it smells, the way it feels, I feel secure carrying one around. But maybe it is time to come on in to the 21st century and get an e-reader? Actually, I have one. I have a Sony e-reader. I sort of like it, I sort of don't. Actually, I don't really use it. Well, that's not exactly the truth. I don't use it at all. But I'm not sure why. It may be that I couldn't exactly get the books that I wanted or that I sort of didn't like the screen...I'm not sure and I wanted to get your opinions about the Kindle. I have friends and acquaintances who absolutely LOVE their Kindle. Is it better? Or is a personality thing? Some people LOVE the e-readers and some people just don't? I really need some feedback, peeps...Christmas is coming up soon (see previous post) and I need to know whether or not to put it on my list.

Above I've posted a picture of the Sony Reader. It is pretty cool, I can't complain...except that I can't get all the books like I might be able to with the Kindle being serviced by Amazon. OR, there is the color NOOK. (see below)

It might be cool to have a color Nook - can you get magazines on that? I might like that. And, being serviced by Barnes and Noble, surely I'd be able to get pretty much any book I wanted, right?

I just don't know. Post your feedback and let me know!!

Is it Christmastime already?

2011-08-31T09:12:00.064-05:00

It must be!! Hallmark keepsake ornaments are out!! I usually try to get my hub and the kids a keepsake ornament each year. And I've told the kids that when they leave home, they can take their ornaments and use them to start their own tree when they leave home. (Just FYI, I totally do NOT mean it, they can have their ornaments when they pry them from my fat little hands) . Last year I totally decided that I wasn't going to do it because we had SO much going on. Well, kids, I got to Helen's (my Mom, not her real name) and she had gotten her yearly Keepsakes, which included the CUTEST Fisher Price ornaments. (See FP airplane on the left. You totally had that airplane and played with it until you were 12. Admit it. Heck, I have the FP camper and I STILL play with it) Luckily, we were able to run down to the local Hallmark store, where they still had the ornaments in stock. In the nick of time, yall. I'm not playing that game this year. Gonna get my Keepsakes. But they are completely SO fabulous. For example:

Mistletoad (heh)

Our Christmas Together

You can check out the Hallmark Keepsake ornaments at: http://www.hallmark.com/online/product/keepsake-ornaments/

Be careful. I beg you.

Up (I love Russell!!)