Book Chick City
I have just entered a challenge at this site to read several books (fiction) by British authors during the coming year. Right up my alley! I love books by British authors and am always on the lookout for them. First up is "East of the Sun" by Julia Gregson, followed by "The French Gardner." I know Elizabeth George has a new one out this coming spring and Ruth Rendell probably has 2 coming out. I have an old Elizabeth Jane Howard here somewhere, too, and perhaps I will discover some new to me authors. I will be posting my reviews on this site if anyone is interested.
And I wish you all health, wealth, and happiness in the coming year!
Marian
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
I see that I haven't posted in some time - guess it's because (knock on wood) Dad is doing so good. I was led to believe by the doctors that he would never to return to where he was before the meningitis, but so far the only lapses in memory that I detect are a difficulty operating the tv remote, the inability to decipher bills (thinking the credit limit is the amount of $$'s owed, and other things like that). He knows where everything is in the kitchen, or the house for that matter, and is fixing his own breakfast, lunch, and snacks. We got both mowers back from the repair shop yesterday (mucho dinero!) so he will be happily mowing for a few days.
I am expecting new books from Barnes and Noble tomorrow - the new Pat Conroy as well as A Reliable Wife which I ordered based on good reviews. Recent reads include The Hemingses of Monticello - both my sisters found it repetitious and gave it a thumbs down, but I thought it was terrific. In fact, I spent 4 days with my nose in the book (800 pages) and neglected everything but the essentials around here. Another good read was The Help - positively devoured that one. It's the author's first effort, but I can't see how she can top this one.
Sunday we went to see Julie and Julia - a lovely, lovely film. Of course Meryl Streep was fantastic, as usual, and I particularly liked the actor who played her husband - Tucci was his real-life last name. I am now inspired to make beouf burgeone (whatever?!?). I made it once before while we were living overseas but I didn't have a recipe. A fellow American told me how to make it and I was NOT impressed with the result. I will try again following Julia Child's recipe and see what I think. Of course I'm too cheap to buy her cookbook and will search it out on the internet. Otherwise I will see what's at the public library. One problem I have with it is adding wine, as we are teatotalers here. I understand that wine loses it's potency when it is heated so I guess it will be okay.
Our congressional representative is holding meetings here tomorrow and we have an appointment with him. The purpose is primarily to discuss the proposed health care plans - I have no objections as long as Medicare is NOT touched. I do plan to ask him about broadband internet service and also show him the Letters to the Editor that so enraged me. I did some research on Google and what I found Rush Limbaugh, Glen Beck and that ilk were saying about Obama and health aide upset me to the point where I thought I would have a heart attack. Such evil people. His (Tom Perriello) aide informed me that his meetings are "one-to-one" and not town hall style to eliminate disruptions.
I am expecting new books from Barnes and Noble tomorrow - the new Pat Conroy as well as A Reliable Wife which I ordered based on good reviews. Recent reads include The Hemingses of Monticello - both my sisters found it repetitious and gave it a thumbs down, but I thought it was terrific. In fact, I spent 4 days with my nose in the book (800 pages) and neglected everything but the essentials around here. Another good read was The Help - positively devoured that one. It's the author's first effort, but I can't see how she can top this one.
Sunday we went to see Julie and Julia - a lovely, lovely film. Of course Meryl Streep was fantastic, as usual, and I particularly liked the actor who played her husband - Tucci was his real-life last name. I am now inspired to make beouf burgeone (whatever?!?). I made it once before while we were living overseas but I didn't have a recipe. A fellow American told me how to make it and I was NOT impressed with the result. I will try again following Julia Child's recipe and see what I think. Of course I'm too cheap to buy her cookbook and will search it out on the internet. Otherwise I will see what's at the public library. One problem I have with it is adding wine, as we are teatotalers here. I understand that wine loses it's potency when it is heated so I guess it will be okay.
Our congressional representative is holding meetings here tomorrow and we have an appointment with him. The purpose is primarily to discuss the proposed health care plans - I have no objections as long as Medicare is NOT touched. I do plan to ask him about broadband internet service and also show him the Letters to the Editor that so enraged me. I did some research on Google and what I found Rush Limbaugh, Glen Beck and that ilk were saying about Obama and health aide upset me to the point where I thought I would have a heart attack. Such evil people. His (Tom Perriello) aide informed me that his meetings are "one-to-one" and not town hall style to eliminate disruptions.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Yesterday I was not feeling so great so I let Dad drive to town and back - I went along, of course. He did fine and it seemed to give him a burst of self confidence. When we got to Wal-Mart and marched around like he knew where everything was and just generally took charge. Later, when we got home he made himself lunch - just soup and crackers, but still, it was good to see that he knew where everything was.
Sunday afternoon we had another conversation about the "missing" dog! I was in the bedroom watching television with Sandi and Fritz when Dad came in and asked where the other dog was. I pointed out that both dogs were there with me and he still inquired about the third dog even after I assured him that we only had 2 dogs. Oh well, at least he wasn't outside calling non-existent dogs! Perhaps he's thinking of Max?! We'll see, tomorrow when Ellen gets here.
I imagine that the doctor will be starting Dad on some new medication like Aricept when we go for his appointment tomorrow. I am really concerned about these drugs especially after Excelon. Will have to consider the possible side effects very carefully.
I ordered all the paint for his model ship and he seems very interested in doing it. I have left the box of old photos on the dining room table and he frequently will pick up a few and look at them and relay little stories to me.
I think we are making good progress and I feel greatly encouraged.
Sunday afternoon we had another conversation about the "missing" dog! I was in the bedroom watching television with Sandi and Fritz when Dad came in and asked where the other dog was. I pointed out that both dogs were there with me and he still inquired about the third dog even after I assured him that we only had 2 dogs. Oh well, at least he wasn't outside calling non-existent dogs! Perhaps he's thinking of Max?! We'll see, tomorrow when Ellen gets here.
I imagine that the doctor will be starting Dad on some new medication like Aricept when we go for his appointment tomorrow. I am really concerned about these drugs especially after Excelon. Will have to consider the possible side effects very carefully.
I ordered all the paint for his model ship and he seems very interested in doing it. I have left the box of old photos on the dining room table and he frequently will pick up a few and look at them and relay little stories to me.
I think we are making good progress and I feel greatly encouraged.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Sooooooooo - here it is 3 A.M. and I have been awake since 2! Not so bad as I had a HUGE nap yesterday afternoon. Wednesday some of Dad's railroad buddies came to visit and Dad was very pleasant and friendly with them, although when he talked it was rambling with lots of pauses. He had a "bee in his bonnet" that day - wanted to deliver push mower to repair shop and nagged me all day about going. I mean, REALLY got on my case about it. We were expecting the Home Health person and he couldn't understand we had to wait for her. Then, after he left, it was too late to go. He was really p.o.'d. Yesterday we finally delivered mower and when he didn't want to go home right away, we went to B&N to browse. Didn't find anything for myself, but found a WW2 book for him which he seems to be engrossed in.
He had about $15 in his wallet which is gone now. Don't ask me where it went, but since he thinks someone stole it, I keep telling him he gave it to me to buy sandwiches at Guizno's. That's a fib - I don't have a clue! I gave him $15 of my own hoping that would be the end of it. So, after B&N we went to Subway and when I told him to pay up, he was very confused and I had to point out which bills to use. When we parked there I asked him not to lock his car door, so he got out and just stood there by the open door until I told him to shut it and come into the store. There was some construction going on and he wanted to stand there and watch - fine. I went into the store - big front windows from which I could see him clearly. He stood there for several minutes - perhaps 5 or 6, then proceeded across the street and joined me in the store - very good.
When I think back a couple of weeks, he seems to be a whole lot better mentally with some occasional "left field" questions or remarks. Last night at dinner he wanted to know where Ellen was! When I told him she was at her house in Fredtown, he then asked me where the other girls were! His complaints about his sore are are getting less frequent, too, but since Dr. San didn't do anything for it he thinks Dr. San is a quack.
On a different note: I am reading Tana French's latest - "Likeness" and am finding it "unputdownable." I had to plow thru the first 150 or so pages before it got good - forced myself to continue becaause all the reviews were excellent, but that's a whole lot more than I usually read before giving up. I am now at a point in the book where it's scarey - not what I want to read at 3:30 in the morning so I will go play Literati.
He had about $15 in his wallet which is gone now. Don't ask me where it went, but since he thinks someone stole it, I keep telling him he gave it to me to buy sandwiches at Guizno's. That's a fib - I don't have a clue! I gave him $15 of my own hoping that would be the end of it. So, after B&N we went to Subway and when I told him to pay up, he was very confused and I had to point out which bills to use. When we parked there I asked him not to lock his car door, so he got out and just stood there by the open door until I told him to shut it and come into the store. There was some construction going on and he wanted to stand there and watch - fine. I went into the store - big front windows from which I could see him clearly. He stood there for several minutes - perhaps 5 or 6, then proceeded across the street and joined me in the store - very good.
When I think back a couple of weeks, he seems to be a whole lot better mentally with some occasional "left field" questions or remarks. Last night at dinner he wanted to know where Ellen was! When I told him she was at her house in Fredtown, he then asked me where the other girls were! His complaints about his sore are are getting less frequent, too, but since Dr. San didn't do anything for it he thinks Dr. San is a quack.
On a different note: I am reading Tana French's latest - "Likeness" and am finding it "unputdownable." I had to plow thru the first 150 or so pages before it got good - forced myself to continue becaause all the reviews were excellent, but that's a whole lot more than I usually read before giving up. I am now at a point in the book where it's scarey - not what I want to read at 3:30 in the morning so I will go play Literati.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Something that really surprised me: In the past, when I would ask Dad to perform a household chore, I would be totally ignored. I asked him Sunday to unload the dishwasher (a chore I dislike) and he did it, much to my amazement. I then asked him to put the garbage out and he did that as well. In the past he would just ignore me, or tell me he would do it later and then forget about it. Perhaps next I can get him to vacuum and dust - lol!
Today we must go to town - never got there yesterday. We both were outside most of the day and Dad did more physical stuff than he has been doing, including some weeding for me. I haven't done any gardening in so long that today I am all stiff and sore. Late in the morning yesterday Dad disappeared inside and when I questioned him, he said he had eaten lunch - a sandwich (couldn't remember what kind but thought it was a "fruit" sandwich. I checked and saw that he had eaten a turkey sandwich and finished off the strawberries left from Sunday.
So, progress is being made, even tho it's at a snail's pace. I have started a new book - hope it's a good one. I also ordered Pat Conroy's newest - "South of Broad" due out in August. Picking books to order and then ordering them seems to be a "guilty" pleasure for me. I know I shouldn't be running up my credit card account.
Today we must go to town - never got there yesterday. We both were outside most of the day and Dad did more physical stuff than he has been doing, including some weeding for me. I haven't done any gardening in so long that today I am all stiff and sore. Late in the morning yesterday Dad disappeared inside and when I questioned him, he said he had eaten lunch - a sandwich (couldn't remember what kind but thought it was a "fruit" sandwich. I checked and saw that he had eaten a turkey sandwich and finished off the strawberries left from Sunday.
So, progress is being made, even tho it's at a snail's pace. I have started a new book - hope it's a good one. I also ordered Pat Conroy's newest - "South of Broad" due out in August. Picking books to order and then ordering them seems to be a "guilty" pleasure for me. I know I shouldn't be running up my credit card account.
Monday, July 6, 2009
yes
This is a good place to vent, write, think, etc. I a going to write about it on my blog and I'll post the link later.
Since no one seems to be posting here any more I am going to use it to have a conversation with myself. I'm aware that I could probably find an Alzheimer chat room or support area, but I don't want to hear other people's sad stories now. As thankful as I am that Dad survived meningitis, I really miss having adult conversations with him. Not that we could have anything terribly meaningful, but at least we could comment on the news, etc. Now it's just me explaining 100 times a day why his arm hurts. Once in a while answering something from way out in left field - like: did you let all the dogs in? Me: they're both in. Him: No, where are the rest of them. Me: we have 2 dogs and they're both in. Him: well, where are the other dogs that I was playing with all afternoon? Me: You must have been dreaming. And so it goes. I was going to work in the garden all day yesterday - wear myself out physically, but it rained so I spent the day reading - "Renegade" by Richard Wolffe - about Obama's presidential campaign. Had some interesting things to say, but lots of boring stuff too. I like Richard Wolffe - see him often on MSNBC. Today the sun is shining so I will head outside - hope it's not too humid. I need to go to town to get some milk, but if i mention it to Dad he want's to go immediately - even if it's 6 in the morning. On a brighter note: he showered and shaved again today without being reminded.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Happy Easter Everyone---I hope the Easter Bunny was good to all the kiddies!!
We all celebrated Jane's fiftieth last nite. We all had a good time. Today I'm watching a movie on tv. The movie is based a Nora Robert's book, and is actually pretty good.
Later, the boys and I will go over to Jane's and spend the afternoon and evening. But, we will be home in time for Amazing Race. I think we will be finalizing our girl's trip to Philly too.
Ok--maybe next time I look someone else besides me will have blogged!!
We all celebrated Jane's fiftieth last nite. We all had a good time. Today I'm watching a movie on tv. The movie is based a Nora Robert's book, and is actually pretty good.
Later, the boys and I will go over to Jane's and spend the afternoon and evening. But, we will be home in time for Amazing Race. I think we will be finalizing our girl's trip to Philly too.
Ok--maybe next time I look someone else besides me will have blogged!!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Hello outthere..........
Is anyone going to blog anymore?
Joey is at work, Jamie is sleeping.
And, i am doing laundry, yeeees folding and putting it away---slob that I am.
Bruti is in his pen--- was napping until just a bit ago. He got a haircut and shampoo yesterday. The groomer said he has a little diaper rash from too much hair!!!! She said to get desitan. I thought i was done with that!!
OK folks-- now lets hear from UUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!
Is anyone going to blog anymore?
Joey is at work, Jamie is sleeping.
And, i am doing laundry, yeeees folding and putting it away---slob that I am.
Bruti is in his pen--- was napping until just a bit ago. He got a haircut and shampoo yesterday. The groomer said he has a little diaper rash from too much hair!!!! She said to get desitan. I thought i was done with that!!
OK folks-- now lets hear from UUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Greetings! Sunday morning and all is well. It's sunny and mild, supposed to go up to 70 today. Was planning on working in garden, but have made arrangements to pick up the new little train I am buying for under the Christmas tree. It's the Emmett Kelley circus train which I have long admired and my friend is letting hers (in mint condition) go for a ridiculously low price.
Am about halfway thru "the little giant of aberdeen county" - so far, so good. Next I have coming Abraham Verghese's "Cutting for Stone." I have loved his first 2 books and am looking forward to this one. The New York Times gave it a pretty decent review.
Have a great day everyone!
Am about halfway thru "the little giant of aberdeen county" - so far, so good. Next I have coming Abraham Verghese's "Cutting for Stone." I have loved his first 2 books and am looking forward to this one. The New York Times gave it a pretty decent review.
Have a great day everyone!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Guess I'm the only one posting here - oh well. Doctor's office just called and postponed my colonoscopy - HURRAH!! It's better than the dentist cancelling.
We had a little snow last night - perhaps an inch. Sandi loves it, but Fritz acts like it's the enemy. Stalks the backporch like he's circling a python or something, and then jumps back and bats at it. Lucky for him it's not much deeper or you know what would be dragging - heh, heh - "5 Trails in the Snow" by Fritz Dragon. Couldn't resist.
Am wondering if anyone else got snow. Also wondering how long it will be before Dad just HAS to go to town. He can't resist driving around in the snow.
We had a little snow last night - perhaps an inch. Sandi loves it, but Fritz acts like it's the enemy. Stalks the backporch like he's circling a python or something, and then jumps back and bats at it. Lucky for him it's not much deeper or you know what would be dragging - heh, heh - "5 Trails in the Snow" by Fritz Dragon. Couldn't resist.
Am wondering if anyone else got snow. Also wondering how long it will be before Dad just HAS to go to town. He can't resist driving around in the snow.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Stuck in a rut here! Yesterday I replayed the inauguration for several hours and then again today I stumbled upon it on C-Span. I get more thrilled each time I watch it. It is reassuring to know that our government is once again in competent hands and that we are NOT seeing the erosion of our democracy like we have been the past 8 years. I just shake my head in wonderment how anyone in their right minds could have supported Bush!
Anyhow - I think Mrs. Obama's outfit for the inauguration was lovely - and were those REAL diamonds around her neck? Her evening gown kind of left me cold, but it's growing on me. And those little girls are just about the cutest kids I've seen in a long time. As much as I love seeing pictures of them, I hope the media will leave them alone.
It's freezing cold here today so am staying inside. Have a good book to read - Jeffrey Deaver's Sleeping Doll. I've never read him before and am enjoying this one. Next up is a biography of Alexandra (Romanov). I have always been fascinated by the Russian royal family and am looking forward to this.
I have been taping movies for Joey and Jamie to watch next time they're here: Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Best in Show. I wouldn't mind seeing them again myself.
Sandi and Fritz say bow-wow to all!
Anyhow - I think Mrs. Obama's outfit for the inauguration was lovely - and were those REAL diamonds around her neck? Her evening gown kind of left me cold, but it's growing on me. And those little girls are just about the cutest kids I've seen in a long time. As much as I love seeing pictures of them, I hope the media will leave them alone.
It's freezing cold here today so am staying inside. Have a good book to read - Jeffrey Deaver's Sleeping Doll. I've never read him before and am enjoying this one. Next up is a biography of Alexandra (Romanov). I have always been fascinated by the Russian royal family and am looking forward to this.
I have been taping movies for Joey and Jamie to watch next time they're here: Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Best in Show. I wouldn't mind seeing them again myself.
Sandi and Fritz say bow-wow to all!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
more inaugural
Michelle's inaugural day ensemble was perfect. It meshed modern style with classic style and showed class and sophistication without being obnoxious. I hope it was warm, but her legs were out and it was very cold---explains why they walked so fast.
I liked her gown for the balls, however, it should have had a loop or something so she could dance easier. I'm glad I didn't go to any balls, because all the people I know who went to them did not have that good of a time.
White House tour tickets must be hard to get these days................ I think I'll try to get some.
I liked her gown for the balls, however, it should have had a loop or something so she could dance easier. I'm glad I didn't go to any balls, because all the people I know who went to them did not have that good of a time.
White House tour tickets must be hard to get these days................ I think I'll try to get some.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Did everyone watch the inauguration? We were glued to the television until about 10 and then again most of yesterday. I thought Obama's speech was great. Those little girls are adorable, Michelle's outfit was stunning, and Joe Biden gets my vote as the "most happy fella". What a day! Watched C-Span a lot yesterday - it seems as tho some republicans are already trying to cause trouble - Sen. Kornyn for one. And, of course, Arlen Specter. It always seems Sen Spector throws a monkey wrench into the works at the last minute. I also heard on the late Keith Olbermann program that it is only a rumor that Caroline Kennedy has withdrawn from the senate nomination and that it has been denied. Perhaps we'll hear on that matter today.
I'm not very articulate today, it's only 3:20 AM and I haven't had coffee yet. I will try and whirl thru this dusty house today and stay away from C-Span!
I'm not very articulate today, it's only 3:20 AM and I haven't had coffee yet. I will try and whirl thru this dusty house today and stay away from C-Span!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Well, can you believe that we are less than 24 hours away from the BIG DAY!? I will be glued to the television the whole day - don't anyone call me up! have meals planned so i don't have to cook. And - everyone - watch for Ellen - she will have on a camel hair coat and a red knitted cap that says VOLUNTEER. She will be at the Farrugut or McPherson Metro station areas.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
GOOD NEWS!!!!
Dad had his checkup today and is vastly improved!!!! And, let me tell you, that doctor is so adorable if I were 50 years younger I would throw myself at him.
We went to Barnes & Noble afterwards and I got a new sweatshirt (just like Ellen's!) and the new Kate Atkinson book, Dad got A Thousand Splendid Suns. Grabbed a couple of sanwiches at Subway and raced home to scarf them down and spend afternoon reading by the fire. It's cold and rainy here so it's a good day for it.
Dad had his checkup today and is vastly improved!!!! And, let me tell you, that doctor is so adorable if I were 50 years younger I would throw myself at him.
We went to Barnes & Noble afterwards and I got a new sweatshirt (just like Ellen's!) and the new Kate Atkinson book, Dad got A Thousand Splendid Suns. Grabbed a couple of sanwiches at Subway and raced home to scarf them down and spend afternoon reading by the fire. It's cold and rainy here so it's a good day for it.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year!!!
Good evening to you all ---
I spent a very lazy day. Took a nap, along with finishing my book. Watch a few partial shows, and never got dressed. I bought a small turkey breast which is now in the oven cooking away. Will make mash potatoes too, w/a veggie. And, for desert we will have something simple.
This w/end we will be cleaning up around here. Will have Stephanie here next week. I think we will be winging it thru the week. I do plan to take her up to Mom's for Mom's birthday.
Ok, off to play a game while i'm waiting for the turkey to cook...I hope everyone's new year brings in nothing but happiness, health and money!!! Hope the economony changes for the better as well, and that Obama changes the USA to be better in the world of nations.
I spent a very lazy day. Took a nap, along with finishing my book. Watch a few partial shows, and never got dressed. I bought a small turkey breast which is now in the oven cooking away. Will make mash potatoes too, w/a veggie. And, for desert we will have something simple.
This w/end we will be cleaning up around here. Will have Stephanie here next week. I think we will be winging it thru the week. I do plan to take her up to Mom's for Mom's birthday.
Ok, off to play a game while i'm waiting for the turkey to cook...I hope everyone's new year brings in nothing but happiness, health and money!!! Hope the economony changes for the better as well, and that Obama changes the USA to be better in the world of nations.
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