Category Archives: Books & Reading

Shetland Sheepdog

Books Lists and Life

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Shetland Sheepdog
Our foster dog who has since been adopted!

Wow, I had no idea I was so far behind in reporting my books read. Below are the lists for the months of March and April 2025. I will have to make another post soon to update you on my lists for May and June. Things have been busy, but still! My husband and I were both sick with the flu for three weeks. As I was recovering, my husband came down with it. A foster dog has come and gone on to his new home. We have done pet sitting for four dogs, two from the same family at a time. And the gardens are in full swing now requiring daily work. Whew, I am tired just thinking about it. So, here you go, my lists for March and April are below.

Books Read in March 2025

  1. The Lincoln Highway-Amor Towles (761 pages)

This book was not what I expected although I am glad I read it. Emmet is released from a juvenile work farm where he was sent for involuntary manslaughter. He discovers that two friends incarcerated with him stowed away in the warden’s trunk when he was delivered home. Emmett has gone home to take care of his 7 year old brother Billy. Their mother ran off years before, their father recently died, and their father lost the farm to the bank. Emmett and Billy plan to hit the Lincoln Highway and start over in San Francisco. This book covers their unexpected adventures for the 10 days before they head west. Most involve Wooly and Duchess from the work farm and next door neighbor Sally.

2. Artful Journals-Janet Takahashi (Non-fiction)

I really enjoyed this book about journal making. I learned some new techniques and enjoyed seeing the photos and processes.

3. The Art of Card Making-Various artists (Non-fiction)

This is a nice book with card projects, envelope making, etc. I enjoyed looking at the book but am not going to do any of the card projects. I would rather make my own than copy someone else’s templates.

4. Reason for Hope-Jane Goodall (Audiobook)

I have read this book before in print. It is an excellent book describing Jane’s time with the chimpanzees at Gombe and her continuing experiences. Not only is she a scientist, she goes to great lengths to change the world. I decided to to do the audiobook this time because I love Jane’s voice.

5. Tea with Elephants-Robin Jones Gunn

Friends Fern and Lily fulfill their dream of traveling to Africa together. Now middle-aged, God helps them see their blessings on this trip. We the reader get to live the experiences through them. From touring a tea plantation to seeing lions and elephants. The writing in this book is beautiful.

6. The Serviceberry-Robin Wall Kimmerer (Non-fiction)

The cover byline says it all-Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World. Some parts of the book were beautifully written and at other times, I found it to be a slow read. The message of the book makes it well worth reading.

7. Journal Sparks-Emily Neuburger (Non-fiction)

This Storey Book is part reference book, part hands on workbook. I enjoyed it and it is highly thought provoking. For now I have jotted down several ideas from it but may purchase my own copy in the future.

Magazines:  Country Living

Books Read in April 2025

  1. The Sketchbook Challenge-Sue Bleiweiss (Nonfiction)

Focuses on picking specific prompts for journaling ideas. Gives examples through showing individual artists works and comments. Also talks about how to do various methods such as screen printing or using wax, etc. Beautiful images of artists’ work.

2. Identity Unknown-Patricia Cornwell

A one time love interest and long time friend of Dr. Scarpetta is found dead at a defunct amusement park. He was an extraterrestrial scientist and died under suspicious circumstances. Lucy, Benton, and Pete are all working with Kay to solve the case. I thought this book was slower paced than most in the series because there was so much ground work to lay first. The last quarter was exciting. As with all Cornwell’s books, I enjoyed it.

3. Kiss Me At Christmas-Jenny Bayliss

I have read all five of Bayliss’ novels and enjoyed them all. I wouldn’t pick her books by the titles but when I see the author’s name, I grab them. I have never read one of her novels and not felt better. In this one, school guidance counselor Harriet Smith is trying to get through Christmas while her college age daughter spends it away from home. Hence her one night stand who shows up the next day as the attorney representing the owner of the defunct theater her students have broken into. Harriet takes responsibility and is let off the hook if they agree to fix the place up and put on a play for the holiday. Lots of caring friendships and more transpire throughout the course of the book.

4. Unraveled-Peggy Orenstein (Audiobook, Nonfiction)

This title is appropriate on two levels. It is about knitting a sweater, from shearing the sheep to processing the wool and then knitting the sweater. It is also about so much more. The book starts during the pandemic and onward. The author describes mentally unraveling with pandemic concerns, the demise of her father, and more. I’m glad I listened to this rather than reading it. I think it may have been a slow read but was an enjoyable listen.

5. Better Than Friends-Jill Shalvis

Another thoroughly enjoyable book from Shalvis. Olive Porter is back in Sunrise Cove to help her best friend with her son and provide moral support after the friend’s husband is in an accident on the job that puts him in a coma. Olive’s parents live off the grid and may be missing too. While dealing with all this she attempts to avoid former love interest and friend Noah Turner who happens to be her best friend’s twin brother. No luck. The two are continually thrown together with predictably delicious results.

6. Make Magic-Brad Meltzer (Nonfiction)

An inspirational message to his son’s graduating class at university. This message is actually for all of us. We need more magic in the world and the fact that it’s within our reach gives hope. This is a vey short book that should be read again and again.

7. The Grownup’s Guide to Painting with Kids-Jennifer McCully (Nonfiction)

This book contains instructions for lots of fun looking projects that I might try with or without kids. Not right now though so I am putting it on my Thrift Books Wishlist and returning this copy to the library.

8. We Solve Murders-Richard Osman

The story is fast paced and exciting. I’m pretty sure this will be made into a movie as was Osman’s previous book. The story line switches between characters and locations always chasing the murderer/s. The main characters are private security officer Amy Wheeler and her father-in-law, retired detective Steve Wheeler. The plot of this story in a nutshell is someone is trying to frame and kill Amy. They and friends go globetrotting to solve the case before it’s too late.

9. Love at First Book-Jenn McKinlay

This is a little different than McKinlay’s usual books but so good. Even teared me up at one point. Emily Allen lands a job as assistant to her all-time favorite author while she writes the final book in her famous series. Emily leaves her needy, controlling mother behind and flies to Ireland for the job. Of course, the author has an unfriendly but extremely hot son to contend with. You will become smitten with all the Irish characters in the book. When it’s time to leave, will Emily go? No spoilers from me!

10. Birds and Flowers in Colored Pencil-Fei Niao (Nonfiction)

Not much intro or technique. It does have some nice drawings though. I tried specific areas from a couple pictures. I need more guidance.

11. Little Landscapes-Priscilla Hauser (Nonfiction)

I like nearly all the paintings in this book. They come a tracing pattern for each one! I’m taking this book back to the library but have added it to my Thrift Books list to buy later.

12. Acrylics for the Absolute Beginner-Charles Evans (Nonfiction)

Same deal as above. Added to my list to buy later. I have to finish the painting lessons in the book I’m currently working through before I start another.

Magazines:  Forks Over Knives, Best Friends, Mary Jane’s Farm (I enjoy this one so much I just ordered a subscription!)

Acrylic painting

Art, Hiking, Books, and Catching Up

Books & Reading, Country Life, Dogs & Other Animals, Thoughts On Life, , , , , , , , ,
Acrylic painting
Acrylic painting styled after a drawing I saw in a magazine.

This post will feature a little of this and a little of that since I have been remiss in frequency of posting so far this year. That doesn’t mean I haven’t kept myself busy though.

I continue to work on my painting skills, or lack thereof. I am working my way through a book of acrylic painting lessons by Lee Hammond. I do every lesson, even the ones that do not appeal to me. I figure the point is to learn new techniques and ideas. I am afraid if I skip one, I will be deficient in a basic skill forever! I did take a break from the lesson book and do the painting above. Every so often I like to paint something just for fun. After all, if it’s not fun, why am I doing it? This painting is done on a 5 x 5 inch flat canvas. I think part of the reason I find her to be so cute is because of her diminutive size. And she gives me lots of ideas for other paintings. Silhouettes of my nieces with things they like painted inside, gymnastics, girl scouts, etc. A silhouette of a sheltie with things like leashes, agility equipment, sheep, and such painted inside. Seeing as one of my goals is to become proficient enough to donate a painting to our local Sheltie Rescue auction to raise money for the dogs, this last idea may be a good one.

I have been trying other artistic endeavors too. I have done some handmade cards for people’s birthdays and other events. Some have been painted; others have been collage. I find that I enjoy collage and art journaling. I guess I like my senses to be bombarded with lots of information. My brother always says I don’t like any food unless it has at least five things in its name. Like cookie dough, chocolate chunk, fudge swirl chocolate ice cream. I would have to say he is correct on this. My first thought on vanilla is blah! I know it’s not true but my thought when I hear vanilla is, absence of flavor. I have to say that my preference for multiple items carries over to all senses, not just food. I read multiple books at a time. Different books for different moods, right? And then, sometimes an audiobook is a better option, say when driving. And I tend to lean towards multimedia when it comes to art. The fact that I want to try various mediums goes along with this mindset. That’s why art journaling is fun to me. It can combine it all. I even made a tiny little journal that I bound with thread and needle.

Hiking view
West Branch State Park, Buckeye Trail near East boat ramp.

We have begun hiking again. Not every day like we were, but currently a couple of days a week. It would be more, but on some of the days my husband golfs, so he already has his walk in for the day. We stopped hiking last fall because our dog Zekie’s health was failing, and I couldn’t bear to leave him home by himself. He would have had to be crated, with his severe separation anxiety, I knew he would have been drooling and making a mess of himself. His Cushing’s Disease and liver disease caught up to him and we had to let him go in January. I still miss yelling, “Zeke, put that down” and “Zeke, stop licking that”! (The Cushing’s Disease left him with a need to lick everything in sight; the cabinets, the floors, himself. And I mean constantly. I must have told him to stop licking the wood floors thirty times a day.) Ahh, the good old days. Then we went through a spell of weather where it was too icy to walk. But now, milder weather is here, and we are walking more.

I am reading as always and will leave you with my list of books read for January and February. Enjoy!

Books I Read in January 2025

  1. The Life Impossible-Matt Haig

The book starts with Grace Winters living a shell of a life after the death of her husband, and the death of her 11 year old son years ago. Out of the blue, she inherits a house in Ibiza from a former coworker she hadn’t heard from in decades. Grace goes there and is met with mysterious happenings that lead to a new life and exciting times to conquer an evil force. After an odd encounter with an unknown life form in the sea, Grace develops unexplained powers that help her with the coming challenges. A mysterious and beautiful book.

2. Pumpkin Spice Puppy-Lauren Berenson

Dog enthusiast Melanie Travis is back on the heels of another murderer. She is dropping off pumpkin spice tokens for her school’s fundraiser to a local pet store and finds a body along with the victim’s devoted Chow. Her search uncovers multiple people with a grudge against the victim including neighbors who didn’t like all the rescue Chows he took in. A short read with an enjoyable story.

3. Modern Watercolor Workshop-Pooja Kendall-Umrani (Non-fiction)

A beautiful book for the beginner. Painting geometric/repeating shapes. Good for learning techniques and controlling the paint.

4. Between the Sound and the Sea-Amanda Cox

Joey (Josephine) accepts a temporary job in a different state rehabbing and old, decommissioned lighthouse. There is a mystery to be unraveled surrounding the disappearance of the keeper’s daughter. A widower is using his wife’s life insurance money to fund the project. Enter the widower’s grandson in opposition to the project. Lots of unsolved mysteries from long ago to be addressed. The book got off to a very slow start for me but I keep with it and the end was rewarding.

5. How to Let Things Go-Shinmyo Masuno (Non-fiction)

Written by a Buddhist monk. The book contains 99 tips to relinquish control and free yourself up for what matters, per the cover. This book has something in it that could benefit everyone. Lots of good insights.

6. Big Vegan Flavor-Nisha Vora (Cookbook)

The book begins with lots of information and techniques before going on to recipes. Many of the recipes look delicious, but again I don’t have many of the ingredients on hand and I have a fairly well-stocked kitchen.

7. Dog Songs and a Thousand Mornings-Mary Oliver (Audiobook, Poetry)

I’ve discovered the magic of Mary Oliver from Facebook. This book is read by her. It is short, enjoyable, and easy listening. I went through it in two days while making dinner and a trip into town.

Magazines:  Downeast (2), AARP

Books I Read in February 2025

  1. A Merry Little Murder Plot-Jenn McKinlay

I love all of McKinlay’s books, especially the Lindsey Norris library lover’s mysteries! Lindsey and her friends must solve a murder and catch the killer during this Christmas season mystery. Lots of support from friends and fun times as Lindsey and crew try to keep their artist in residence from becoming the next victim.

2. The Blue Hour-Paula Hawkins

A story about Vanessa the artist and her friend Grace who live on Eros Island in the British sea. I’m not sure whether to call this a murder mystery, a slow paced thriller, or a character study. It fits all three categories. Vanessa has died and left her artwork to the personal museum of her married ex-lover. There is speculation about happened to Vanessa’s missing husband. The friend Grace is present throughout it all. Part of the story is told with pages of Vanessa’s diary and flashbacks. The story kept me intrigued and I would recommend it.

3. Counting Miracles-Nicholas Sparks

The book centers around Kaitlyn Cooper, a doctor and single mother, and Tanner Hughes, retired military and trying to find his place in life. Elderly Jasper lives nearby with his dog Arlo and plays a vital role in their lives. Jasper is horribly disfigured from a tragedy years earlier. All are drawn together with the appearance of the legendary white deer. A very good story.

4. Book Play-Margaret Couch Cornwall (Non-fiction)

A lovely book about how to make little handmade books. Covers supplies, techniques, and offers a few projects. I got some new ideas that I may just give a try!

Magazines: Best Friends

My recommendation from the above books is as follows. If you want an enjoyable book that makes you think, read The Life Impossible or Counting Miracles. If you just want to have fun, read A Merry Little Murder Plot. There weren’t any books listed above that I didn’t like.

And I’ll share the picture below just to make you smile! PeeWee likes to sleep on the back of the couch for multiple reasons. He stays out of the way and doesn’t get stepped on. He can watch out the window for neighborhood excitement such as the US mail jeep, delivery trucks, tractors, motorcycles, and loud cars. And all the better to see what we have on our plates on the tv trays that may be of interest to him. And everything is of interest to him!

Sheltie
PeeWee sleeping on the back of the couch.

Books I Read in October, November, & December 2024

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Lessons in Chemistry

I have been remiss in posting lately and hope to do better in the new year. Happy 2025 my Friends! I don’t really have a good excuse for not writing. I’ve spent quite a bit of time taking care of Zekie the wonder dog and working on my new hobby of painting, but mostly I’ve just been lazy. So, on to my list of books read for the last months of 2024.

You will notice that I have begun listening to an occasional audiobook. I still love print books but have decided to listen to audiobooks upon occasion when I am in the car or cooking dinner. This way I can add another book or two a month! I have discovered that I only really enjoy non-fiction works on audio. I tried a couple works of fiction and having the characters voices read by one person does not work for me. I also have trouble keeping my mind on the narrated story line. I’m ok with that. Increasing the non-fiction works I take in is a good thing!

Out of all the books following, there is one that stood out to me from all the others as my number one recommendation-Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. It has been a long time since I read a book that I could not put down. This one did the trick. I related to the main character and her struggles to be taken seriously as a woman of science. Elizabeth Zott is a strong-willed, memorable character.

My second recommendation of all these books is Somewhere Beyond the Sea-by TJ Klune. It is the sequel to The House Under the Cerulean Sea. Arthur Parnassus and Linus Baker are back along with the assorted magical creatures who are their children. It is a book about inclusivity, kindness, and doing what is right. The characters are all endearing, except for the “bad guys”!

October 2024

  1. Fire and Bones-Kathy Reichs

    Tempe is called to Washington DC to examine the remains of fire victims, interfering with her planned romantic getaway with her partner Ryan. Tempe feels duty bound to do her best to identify the victims even though it puts her at odds with Ryan. Tempe follows a tangle of clues, making friends and enemies along the way.

    2. The Last Mrs. Summers-Rhys Bowen

    Georgie O’Mara’s friend Belinda inherits a tiny, rundown fishing cottage in Cornwall. The two take a trip to check it out. They discover it in nearly uninhabitable condition. They meet a childhood friend while there and are invited to stay with Rose at Trewoma Hall. Turns out Belinda had an affair with Rose’s husband before they were married. The husband is murdered, and fingers are pointed at Belinda. There was also a previous murder at the estate. Georgie must quickly solve the case before Belinda is tried for murder.

    3. Creative Collage-30 Projects-Clare Youngs (Non-fiction)

    The book shares techniques and supply information and then gives specific project ideas.

    4. Lessons in Chemistry-Bonnie Garmus

    Oh my gosh, this book was so good! I couldn’t stop reading it. Elizabeth Zott is a chemist in the 1950’s. She is not your typical woman in any way. She meets the love of her life, award winning chemist Calvin Evans but refuses to marry him because she wants to remain a chemist and be taken seriously. They do move in together and adopt a dog named Six Thirty who of course has an enormous understanding of the English language. Calvin dies and Elizabeth discovers she is with child. Another hurdle for her in 1950’s California. Elizabeth struggles to be taken seriously as a scientist and provide a home for her child. She falls into a job as an afternoon tv host on a cooking show and bases her recipes on chemistry. This book is hilarious while pointing out the challenges of a woman trying to be taken seriously.

    Magazines:  Down East (2), Fall Gardening, Oh Reader

    November 2024

    1. Tell Me Everything-Elizabeth Strout

      Lucy Barton is back, along with Bob Burgess and Olive Kitterage from previous books. About relationships and life in Crosby, Maine. Bob is defending a murder suspect from their town.

      2. Close Knit-Jenny Colgan

      This centers around knitting and flying an airplane. Gertie lives with her mother and grandmother. Frequently their friends come over to knit. Gertie works at the local market but takes a short-term job with the wee, local Scottish airline. Her new boss and former school mate, Morag, is also her new flat mate. Struan is a teacher at the school and is ordered to take his students on an overnight camping trip. Struan is also Gertie’s school crush. An unexpected blizzard hits when the students are camping. Gertie, Morag, and Struan must all work together to save the children.

      3. You Could Make This Place Beautiful-Maggie Smith (Audiobook)

      No, it’s not written by that Maggie Smith as I thought when I checked it out. This is about a wife and mother of two, and her experiences struggling through her divorce. It was a little depressing for my taste but not a bad book.

      4. Living the Creative Life-Rice Freeman-Zachery (Non-fiction)

      The book features several artists and gets their answers to various art-related questions. Everything from what is creativity? to what are your workspaces and habits? More about a creative lifestyle than the art itself.

      5. After You-Jojo Moyes

      This is the sequel to Me Before You. The original is spectacular and is burned in my memory. This book is good but as always, the first one is better. After losing Will, Louisa’s life is depressing and seems to be on hold. Enter Sam Fielding a paramedic who treats Louisa after a freak accident. The book centers around Louisa attempting to get her life on track and figuring out what and who is important to her.

      6. Cottage Core Simplified-Katie Merriman (Non-fiction)

      This book delivers what the cover offers-a guide to countryside charm, comfort, and happiness. A nice cozy book.

      7. Big Magic:  Creative Living Beyond Fear-Elizabeth Gilbert (Audiobook)

      An inspiring book for writers and other artists. Personal experiences from the author of Eat, Pray, Love.

      8. The Christmas Tree Farm-Melody Carlson

      Maddie McDowell returns to the Christmas tree farm she and her sister Addie have inherited from their grandparents. Maddie has been teaching in Mongolia for the past five years. The two sisters are at odds over whether to keep the farm. Enter Gavin, the neighbor both girls are smitten with. There is a lot of back and forth bickering before a conclusion is reached. A cozy holiday novel.

      Magazines:  AARP, Yankee, The Power of Connection (Oprah), Forks Over Knives-Plant-based cooking, Best Friends

      December 2024

      1. Somewhere Beyond the Sea-TJ Klune

        Arthur Parnassus, Linus Baker, and their menagerie of magical children are back in this sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea. I think of this book as the inclusive version of a fantasy story. The group is once again combatting the powers of evil that try to control them and rule their lives. I do so enjoy these books!

        2. The Murders in Great Diddling-Katarina Bivald

        In the book, author Berit Gardner attends a tea party in the tiny village of Great Diddling. The event takes place at the home of a wealthy estate owner. Her estate is set to be inherited by the disliked nephew. (I’ve read the first 30 pages of this book two times and cannot get into the story. Back to the library it goes. The story sounds interesting, it just isn’t holding my attention right now.)

        3. Does This Taste Funny?-Stephen Colbert & Evie McGee Colbert (Cookbook)

        The Colberts are from the South and so are the recipes featured in this book. Many from Evie’s mother. There is also humorous commentary from the authors, the two being from the late night talk show that bears their name.

        4. The Heart Healthy Plant-Based Cookbook-Pulapaka

        Many intriguing recipes are shared. They sound tasty but most require ingredients I don’t have on hand/are quite spicy, not necessarily hot. Not what I’m into right now but I may check this book out at another time.

        5. A Cyclist’s Guide to Crime & Croissants-Ann Claire

        Sadie Greene is successful at her corporate job and offered a promotion. She is also so busy that when her best friend comes by and asks her to go for a bicycle ride, she turns her down. Her friend is killed by a hit and run motorist on this very ride, forcing Sadie to reexamine her priorities. She quits her job and takes on the dream she and her friend shared of owning and running a bicycle touring company in the French countryside. Murders seem to follow Sadie, and she must solve them to save her new dream job.

        6. A Christmas Carol-Charles Dickens

        Even though I have seen several versions of this Christmas classic on screen, including the Mr. Magoo version, I had never read the original. Now, I have! It is as you would expect, and well worth the read.

        7. The Rose Arbor-Rhys Bowen

        Bowen’s books are a lovely combination of historical timepiece and cozy murder mystery. Liz Houghton is a former investigative reporter trying to fight her way back to the newsroom. She focuses on a missing child and wonders if the current case is tied to three unsolved missing child cases from years before. An evacuated and bombed English village comes into play in the cases. It took me a bit to get pulled into the story, then I couldn’t put it down.

        8. Lucy Burdette’s Kitchen, Recipes & Stories from the Key West Food Critic Mysteries (Cookbook)-Lucy Burdette

        I thought this was going to be a book about a food critic’s life on the island since I wasn’t familiar with the author. Instead, it contained recipes from a murder mystery series. Still, the book gave a nice island feel, and I may check out the mystery series.

        Magazines:  Real Simple

        Snippets of Nature

        Books & Reading, Country Life, Gardens, , , , , , , ,
        Woodland
        Woodland view.

        “I can sit alone by an open window for hours if I like, and hear only bird songs, and the rustle of leaves. The trees are pure gold and orange.” Virginia Woolf

        Here is another Virginia Woolf quote that is speaking to me. (Recently, I read a list of quotes from another blogger’s site that spoke to me so much that I saved the list. Here is a link to that post-https://katiegilley.com/2024/10/09/quotes-from-september-2024/) I think it can apply to any nature encounter that touches a soul. It takes me back to a day over 20 years ago when I was sitting on the front porch of my last home. I had a book with me and was chilling out, contemplating the fact that I would soon be moving to a new house even though I didn’t really want to move. It was a breezy day and suddenly I noticed the sound of the wind in the quaking aspen trees growing in the field next to me. It was the most magical sound that went on and on. I remember thinking “I can’t believe I will not be able to sit here and hear this sound again. It is the most perfect sound.” Yes, I was having a bit of a pity party, but even in my distress I recognized how lovely and restorative nature can be. The sound was such perfection that I remember it to this day. I have numerous memories of such snapshots in time that I have spent in nature.

        Patio garden.

        We have a patio garden that we enjoy sitting in. It has a lovely fountain that gives us the sound of falling water. Sometimes, I like to turn the fountain off and sit in the garden. Then I can focus on the sounds of the birds, wildlife, and trees. We live out in the country and regularly see turkey vultures, hawks, and an occasional owl or bald eagle. The sound of their wings flapping is an amazing experience. So powerful as they glide over the little valley, occasionally giving a single flap as they glide by. I also enjoy hearing the chittering and scolding of the squirrels. I even enjoy the cooing of the mourning doves and cawing of the crows.

        After a number of years of watching the crows interact, I have a new appreciation for them. We observed an unusual experience with the crows near our house a few years ago. Around a dozen crows congregated in some of our pine trees and spent the day there. They cawed sharply and urgently. After a while the calls became more repetitive but distressed. Each bird had the same call that it repeated. We knew something was wrong but had no idea what. The next day we went out into the patio garden which is next to the pine grove and in one of the bordered sandstone flowerbeds, we found a juvenile crow that was dead. It had only one wound and we think it was attacked by a hawk or other large bird of prey. We think the urgent calling had been the adults trying to scare away the predator and protect the younger bird. The slow, plaintive calls we heard later on, we think were ones of sorrow. We buried the young crow with sadness. This got me curious about crows. I read that they live in family units. I have a greater respect for crows after this incident.

        I think that part of nature’s magic is that it helps us live outside of ourselves, get out of our own heads for a bit. No matter what is happening in our lives, the world goes on around us, most of it without any input from us. In this way it makes me feel better and I am able to put life in perspective. And this is one reason why going for a walk in the woods makes us feel better. Whatever is going on in our private lives, life in the woods still goes on, unaffected. The Japanese have something called shinrin-yoku which means forest bathing. Forest bathing is immersing yourself in nature for physical, emotional, mental, and social health. People have been doing this for centuries and I think it is fitting that someone has put a name to it.

        I started this post to share how this Virginia Woolf quote above makes me feel. It is amazing how two sentences can make me feel so many emotions and have so many memories. This is the beauty of words. I hope you are able to have such experiences in your own lives through nature as well as words. I would love to hear about them. (Link to my thoughts on another Virginia Woolf quote https://sanctuary-acres.com/2024/10/28/fueled-by-fall/.)

        Garden, Therapy Dogs, and Books I Read in August & September 2024

        Books & Reading, Country Life, Dogs & Other Animals, , , , , ,
        Rose & Snapdragon

        The roses are having a second bloom of activity with the rain and cooler weather. We haven’t had a hard frost yet, so all the plants in the walled garden are still gracing us with beauty. I think the blooms in the fall are twice as sweet. The plants bless us with a last round of activity before the long winter’s sleep.

        In addition to gardens, therapy dog work has been keeping me quite busy. I have done more evaluations for potential therapy dogs this year than ever before and I still have three more sessions to go. That’s approximately 30 more dogs! Why so many? Personally, I think there are not as many evaluators around. I need to get Claire tested to be my next therapy dog since Shelby retired. The only evaluation I can find besides my own, is five hours away. I guess it will have to wait until next year. I never felt that Claire was quite ready to test even though she is sweet as punch. She will have to step up and start my next generation of therapy dogs. If she can master that long distance stay (20 ft), we should pass.

        I read every day, no matter what. It centers me. So here is my list of completed reading material for the past two months. Occasionally, I start a book and decide it is not for me and return it to the library.

        August 2024:

        1. Pets and the City-Dr. Amy Attas (Non-fiction)

        This is the most engaging nonfiction book I’ve read in some time. Dr. Attas tells about numerous encounters as a house call vet in Manhattan, including several famous clients-Joan Rivers and Billy Joel are a couple. All the tales are entertaining and it’s fun reading what she encounters. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with this one.

        2. East Coasting-Chitnis & Dorazewski (Non-fiction)

        What a beautiful book! It tells you about places to visit in the northeastern United States and has wonderful watercolor paintings throughout. It worth reading even if you have no plans to travel.

        3. The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club-Helen Simonson

        The story is set just after World War I. Constance Haverhill is expected to give up her job, as are so many women of the time, to the men returning from war. She goes to the seaside for the summer as a lady’s companion. While there she meets Poppy Wirral and her group of women who wear pants and run a motorcycle service. Constance finds she also quite likes Poppy’s gruff brother who lost part of his leg during a plane accident. An enjoyable story.

        4. Never Leave the Dogs Behind-Brianna Madia (Non-fiction)

        Brianna is a social influencer who lives alone in the desert with her four dogs in a small trailer. She is brutally honest in sharing with us, her trials through the demise of her marriage and figuring out her new normal as she searches for who she is now. Of course I thought the best part was her dedication to her dogs.

        5. Eruption-Michael Crichton and James Patterson

        Although Crichton has passed, he left this partially finished manuscript and his research. It was finished by Patterson. A volcano is going to erupt in Hawaii and it will be the big one. Other factors added to the volcano make this a world threatening event. Volcanologists, the army, and demolition experts work tirelessly before it is too late. An exciting book well worth the read.

        Magazines:  Country Living UK edition, Cottages and Bungalows, AARP (2)

        September 2024:

        1. The Summer Swap-Sarah Morgan

        Lily has escaped to Cape Cod after dropping out of medical school. She is figuring out the next phase of her life while cleaning cottages for the summer. Cecelia is reluctantly back at her Cape Cod cottage hiding from her family and the notoriety of her late artist husband. Kristen, Cecelia’s daughter, shows up at the cottage after walking out on her career-obsessed husband. All have issues they are dealing with and need to decide the direction they want their lives to take. They choose Cape Cod for their ruminations.

        2. The Summer Escape-Jill Shalvis

        Anna Moore is a private investigator. Her sister Wendy is expecting triplets soon. So of course, this is the perfect time to delve into their father’s past to see if he was a crook after finding a stolen coin in his belongings. It does result in Anna meeting Owen Harris who runs an outdoor adventure business. The coin is one from a collection owned by Owen’s aunt. Anna and Owen start to trust each other and work together on the case. Wendy gives birth to the babies in the midst of the investigation. Another enjoyable Shalvis book with likable characters.

        3. How to Be Old-Lyn Slater (Non-fiction)

        Good reading on what is expected of the older person and examples of how the author avoided it. This book covers the decade of her 60’s year by year. The author is a social/clothing influencer. There was a lot about the fashion world that I didn’t really care about. After finishing the book, I can say, I wish I had spent my time reading something else. The book is fine, it’s just not my cup of tea.

        4. Sandcastle Inn-Irene Hannon

        This book is from the Hope Harbor series. Vienna Price loses her career job and goes home to her free spirit mother. Mary Quinn goes to Hope Harbor to help his sister with the rundown B&B she purchased. The two come together to rebrand and spruce up the inn. Both are running from trouble in their lives, as is the young contractor couple who join them on the inn redo. Hope Harbor is the perfect place to contemplate the life changes all are working on. A pleasant read.

        5. Four Thousand Paws-Lee Morgan (Non-fiction)

        A veterinarian’s tale about being a check point veterinarian for the Iditarod as the dogs race across the Alaskan wilderness. Morgan has been an Iditarod vet for 10 years and worked many different checkpoints to make sure the dogs are healthy. He has anecdotes about the dogs, the mushers, and the Alaskan natives. An informative and fun book.

        6. Making Bentwood Trellises, Arbors, Gates, & Fences-Jim Long (Non-fiction)

        Gives information about finding flexible wood and various ways of fastening them together. Contains a number of different designs. Good general info to help you come up with your own structures.

        7. The Summer We Started Over-Nancy Thayer

        The Grant sisters, Eddie and Barrett, are close even though their parents weren’t typical. The family and several friends are all at the new family home on Nantucket for the summer. The sisters are finding men and relationships whether they want to or not. The family loves books but dad’s obsession has reached hoarder status. Enter, Eddie’s boss from New York City. She is a famous author. Dad is a struggling, unpublished author. And then there’s the late brother’s child. Lots of fun relationships in this story.

        Magazines:  Down East, Yankee, Country Living (2)

        Books I Read in June & July 2024

        Books & Reading, , ,
        One of my July reads.

        These summaries of my June and July reading list should get me up to date for the time being. Excessive gardening and hanging out with family are keeping me busy. Life is good!

        Gladiolus amongst cleome leaves.

        June 2024

        1. The Twilight Garden-Sara Nisha Adams

        Winston is a depressed loner. He finds solace in his overgrown London garden. He begins working to bring the garden under control and someone mysteriously slips old newspaper clippings about his garden through the mail slot. The garden was once enjoyed by the community and maintained by two friends who lived in the adjoining terrace houses. The book moves back and forth between the two friends and Winston’s present day relationship with the garden and his new neighbors. The book comes to a satisfying conclusion.

        2. An Irish Country Childhood-Marrie Walsh (Non-fiction)

        Short snippets the author recalls from her childhood growing up in the countryside of Mayo County, Ireland. Refreshing tales from an earlier time.

        3. Death by Chocolate Raspberry Scone-Sarah Graves

        Another murder mystery centered around Jake and Ellie’s bakery The Chocolate Moose in Eastport, Maine. This book is particularly fun because a lot of it takes place on the water. And there are multiple shark encounters!

        4. The Book Club Hotel-Sarah Morgan

        Three women who became friends in their college days meet every year to vacation and for book club of the year’s agreed upon book. The friends are there for each other throughout the year as needed but this is their special time away. This year’s get away is at a New England B & B type hotel run by a widow named Hattie, and her young daughter. Some unexpected problems turn into blessings in disguise for all of them.

        Magazines:  Real Simple, Cottages and Bungalows

        July 2024

        1. The Frozen River-Ariel Lawhon

        The story takes place in 1789 Maine. Martha Ballard is a midwife and medical provider in a Maine territory by the Kenneth River. Things center around the body of a local man pulled from the ice of the river. Was the man hanged for the rape of a townswoman? Martha was called to examine the woman, her friend, in a professional capacity not long after the incident. A faction of local men question whether there was a rape, or even if the man was murdered. The story is laced with Martha assisting in births, court proceedings and so on. Some things seem to stay the same across centuries as the legal system questions women of the community about circumstances regarding their bodies.

        2. Camino Ghosts-John Grisham

        Bruce Cable is back in this third book of the series. So is his friend Mercer Mann who is newly married. The story, however, centers around Ms. Lovely Jackson, the last of a line of people descending from slaves who gained freedom when washed ashore during shipwrecks and living on Dark Isle. Lovely claims ownership of the island as the last survivor of her people. A large conglomerate contests this as they want the right to develop and build resorts. Things are complicated by the rumor of ghosts, said to cause the death of any white man who comes to the island. An interesting tale.

        3. Up-Island Harbor-Jean Stone

        Maddie Clarke received a letter informing her that she has inherited her grandmother’s property on Martha’s Vineyard after her recent death at age 89. The only problem is, Maddie thought her grandmother died over 30 years ago. When she goes to the island, she discovers that she has Native American ancestry that she knew nothing about. Accidents befall Maddie and her stay is extended as she makes friends and uncovers secrets. A seaside story with a more serious tone.

        4. Hiking & Backpacking-Buck Tilton (Non-fiction)

        Tips and advice from a veteran backpacker who has hiked and camped on multiple continents. I’m always looking for advice that will make hiking easier.

        5. Crow Talk-Eileen Garvin

        The story switches back and forth between two main characters. One is a graduate student, Frankie, specializing in ornithology. She is spending time at the family’s cottage while trying to get her life on track after the death of her father and the fiasco surrounding her master’s thesis. The second character, Annie, has a five year old son who stopped speaking a year ago. Amid the death of a friend, her son’s issues, and her ambitious in-laws, she is struggling. The two are brought together by a baby crow that Frankie is nursing back to health. The book was slow paced for a long time but I’m glad I stuck with it.

        6. Cozy White Cottage Create Your Own Cozy-Liz Marie Galvan (Non-fiction)

        Examples of how the author organizes and lives her own life. Has ideas to apply to your own life along with lists, charts, and suggestions. Very basic information.

        7. Keep It Zesty-Edy Massih (Cookbook)

        A cookbook of Lebanese cuisine. Maybe of these recipes look interesting and tasty. Nice pictures too. I am unlikely to make most of these recipes because I would have to invest in new spices and ingredients.

        Magazines:  Real Simple, Country Living, Garden Fresh Recipes, Cuisine at Home, Summer Favorites Recipes, Best Salad Recipes

        Books I Read in May 2024

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        A wonderful selection I found at the library!

        I had no idea I was so far behind on publishing my reading lists! I can only attribute it to how busy we have been. Or maybe poor memory. We have been building a 12 x 16 ft. storage shed! Who knew I could lift my half of a 12 foot framed wall onto the prepared floor base? Certainly not me. My husband designed the shed and is the brains of the operation. I help lift things, run for tools and more boards, etc. Several days during construction have reached 90 degrees and I am NOT a fan of heat. I tried to keep my whining to a minimum and we are now under roof. The worst is over. Famous last words. I have learned a lot and surprised myself with some of the things I was able to do. All those hours watching my dad when I was a kid and handing him tools have paid off. I’ll share a photo of the shed some other time. Maybe when it’s all done. For now, here is my list of books read way back in May.

        1. Good Housekeeping, Organize Your Life (Non-fiction)

        Usually, I’m disappointed by organization books, but not this one. It has some realistic ideas for regular people. I love a good idea on how to make my things look organized and less like junk.

        2. Noon-Meike Peters (Cookbook)

        These are recipes so simple; you can easily make them for lunch hence the name of the book. Each recipe is beautiful in the accompanying photo and indeed easy to prepare. There are food combinations that I never thought to put together, and they do sound delicious. I will be trying some new meals soon!

        3. Mrs. Pargeter’s Patio-Simon Brett

        A British mystery written in classic style. Mrs. Pargeter finds a skeleton with a bullet hole in the head when a stone in her patio cracks in half. This leads to her trying to find out why it is there and how it happened. She uses her deceased husband’s little black book of helpful people to handle the task. Mrs. Pargeter never catches on to the fact that all of these men are criminals with different specialties as was her husband. A comic murder mystery.

        4. One Summer, America, 1927-Bill Bryson (Non-fiction)

        This book took me the better part of two months to read. I did read other books at the same time. There was a lot of information to digest. Everything from the various flights of Lindbergh and other pilots of the day to baseball greats Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Prohibition, various gangsters, nazis, and anarchists are presented, and we’re given a look into their personal lives. Bryson puts a personal spin on the characters to keep things interesting while we learn about history. I learned a lot so it’s definitely worth reading. 660 pages not including the 90 pages of index and references.

        5. The Ikaria Way-Diane Kochilas (Cookbook)

        A nice book with some good recipes. Lots of dishes similar to what I throw together in my kitchen. The photos of the area are beautiful and it’s worth checking out this book simply for them. I enjoy reading about the longevity of the Ikarians who are in one of the Blue Zones where many people live longer than average.

        6. You Are My Sunshine-Sean Dietrich (Non-fiction)

        The author’s wife cajoles him into undertaking a long bike ride across The Great Allegheny Passage and the C & O Canal Towpath. One major obstacle-Sean is afraid of bicycles, so his ride is an adult sized trike. Just one of many hilarious obstacles that the couple overcame on their journey. The author also has a blog and podcast-Sean of the South.

        Magazines:   Cuisine at Home (2), Country Cottage, Cottages and Bungalows, Cottage Journal

        Books I Read in April 2024

        Books & Reading, , , ,
        Still reading!

        I started with the photo of this Bill Bryson book because I have been reading it for about a month. I am just past the halfway point. It is taking me quite a while as I usually have a non-fiction and a fiction book going at the same time. Not to mention the fact that the book is 661 pages long! Some parts are a little slow, but overall I am really enjoying it. I am certainly learning a lot. And so, on to the rest of my list.

        1. The Watchmaker’s Hand-Jeffrey Deaver

        A Lincoln Rhyme novel with his wife Amelia Sachs. Books in this series are hard to put down because I want to know what happens next! Rhyme is a one-time police investigator, now a quadriplegic, with a razor-sharp mind. His police officer wife walks the crime scenes and others on the force do more of the legwork. They are once again up against an old adversary, The Watchmaker. One giant construction crane has fallen, and more are promised to come down, endangering residents of the city. Solving the crime quickly is of utmost importance.

        2. The Alchemist-Paulo Coelho

        This story reminds me of a fable or a fairy tale. A young shepherd boy sets out on a journey to find his Personal Legend and make his fortune. He encounters all sorts of people, both good and bad, plus a lovely young maiden. He learns much along the way before completing his quest.

        3. Kamala Harris:  History-Making US Vice President-James Roland (Non-fiction)

        A timeline and summary of Harris’ career and political accomplishments to date. An informative little book, 60 pages. She overcame many obstacles to get where she is. She is a determined woman.

        4. The Bright Spot-Jill Shalvis

        Luna Wright has just inherited half of the farm she’s been managing. She’s also just learned that the owner was her biological grandfather. The other fifty percent was inherited by a suit-wearing, hottie named Jameson. While taking care of the rescue animals and day to day disasters, Luna must come to terms with the relationships in her life, both old and new. I don’t think Shalvis has ever written a bad book and this one does not disappoint.

        5. Joyfull-Radhi Devlukia-Shetty (Cookbook)

        I enjoyed this book. The recipes have ingredients that I don’t have and would be difficult to find. If I made any of the recipes, it would be with adjustments. They do sound delicious. The book also discusses and gives examples of an Ayurvedic lifestyle. I wouldn’t switch to it but I could see implementing a few things. The concept is certainly interesting. The book is worth checking out for this alone.

        6. Fatal First Edition-Jenn McKinlay

        This cozy mystery series is one of my favorites. Lindsey Norris, along with her husband, is returning by train from an out of state library convention when murder occurs. Don’t worry, they make it back to Briar Creek so her friends can get in on the case. The train passengers are stranded by a huge snowstorm and then Lindsey’s husband Sully goes missing. There’s lots of excitement for all before the case is solved.

        Magazines:  Food and Wine, Yankee

        Books I Read in March 2024 (with Solar Eclipse photo!)

        Books & Reading, Country Life, , , , , , , , , ,
        Solar Eclipse, Ravenna, Ohio
        Solar Eclipse, Ravenna, Ohio, April 8, 2024, at 3:00 pm.

        Hello, friends! Just wanted to share this photo from the solar eclipse we experienced on Monday. We went over to my mother-in-law’s house to share the experience and make it more festive. Some people who live one street over made it into a party. When the eclipse reached totality, everyone yelled and cheered. It was a momentous thing to see.

        And now, on to my book list for the month of March, short though it is.

        1. Njuta:  The Swedish Art of Savoring the Moment- Niki Brantmark (Non-fiction)

        This refers to savoring the moment from the Swedish perspective. There are chapters suggesting how to do this at home, at work, outdoor, for special occasions, etc. Basically, learn how to “take time to smell the roses”.

        2. Come Rain or Come Shine-Jan Karon

        This is the first book I have read from the Mitford series. The series has been around for years and seems to maintain popularity, so I thought I should give it a try. The story centers around two high school sweethearts tying the knot. The husband just graduated from veterinary school and is taking over the local practice as the old vet retires. The two also get word that the boy they applied to adopt from a poor situation is on his way. He arrives in time to take part in the wedding. They are surrounded by family, friends, and community as they prepare for the big day. A tale about family and community, sometimes one and the same. I found the book to be a little too “goody two shoes” for my taste, but if you are looking for an uplifting story, this may be it.

        3. Oodles and Oodles of Vegan Noodles-Cheynese Khachame (Cookbook)

        The first half of this book has recipes for cold noodle soups and cold noodle salads which aren’t really my thing. Although, the recipes in the second half look delicious, they require several items per recipe that I don’t have, and I consider myself to have a fairly well stocked kitchen.

        4. The Twelve Months of Christmas-Sheila Roberts

        Molly, Sunny, and Arianna all have lousy Christmas’. The three become friends and decide Christmas needs to be celebrated each month of the year to spread joy and make up for their rotten holidays. Family and friends become involved in the celebrations and the friendships grow after some rocky times. Almost makes me want to try it myself even though I enjoyed my Christmas. More socializing and celebrating is a good thing.

        5. Landlines-Raynor Winn (Non-fiction)

        Winn and her husband walk across England and Scotland and back again. Over 1,000 miles. Impressive in itself, but even more so because Winn’s husband suffers from a degenerative brain disease. They undertake this journey in the hopes that he will improve as happened last time they undertook a long distance hike. This is the author’s third book about her hiking adventures. I feel her pain and see the beauty as she and husband Moth take to the trails. The tale is inspiring as they persevere.

        Magazines:  The Nature Conservancy, AARP, Country Living, Midwest Living, Food & Wine

        Books I Read in February 2024

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        book
        A fun book!
        1. Unleashed Holiday-Victoria Schade

        I’ve been looking for this book ever since it came out in the fall. Dog trainer Chelsea Higgins is not happy when her old nemesis and former love interest Andrew locates his new gym right next to her business. She agrees to a job training Andrew’s mother’s goats. Chelsea also ends up helping Andrew train his deaf boxer and adopts an unruly Boston Terrier. We are amused by the many run ins between them all.

        2. The Road to Little Dribbling-Bill Bryson (Non-fiction)

        This is the sequel to Notes from a Small Island. The author moved from the United States to Britain years ago and has become a dual citizen. His descriptions of the country and his experiences are informative, and at times hilarious.

        3. How to be Wildflower-Katie Daisy (Illustrated)

        This is a book of gorgeous paintings by Katie Daisy with famous quotes and a bit of commentary from her. I used to buy her planners when I was working because they are so beautiful.

        4. Housebroke-Jaci Burton

        Hazel is living in her friend’s house with her five foster dogs, after said friend moved to the opposite coast. Hazel is surprised when renovator Lincoln Kennedy shows up, because her friend forgot to tell her the house was sold. Being a good guy, Lincoln lets Hazel, and the dogs stay in the guest house. They have all kinds of fun antics, but what will happen when it’s time for Linc to flip the house? A fun book.

        5. House Cat-Paul Barbera (Non-fiction)

        A cute book combining decorating and cats. We see photos of people’s interiors and meet their cats. Most of the homes are in New York, so not all my style, but still… cats!

        6. A Lighthouse Christmas-Jenny Hale

        Mia returns to the lighthouse where she grew up, after her grandmother’s death. She, and her mother and sister are readying it for sale to pay off debts. None of them really wants to sell it. Things are complicated when the real estate agent is good looking and nice too. Then there’s Mia’s estranged husband who wants her back. An enjoyable book.

        Magazines:  Yankee, Down East, Best Friends

        You may have noticed that a couple of these are Christmas books and Christmas is long over. I always enjoy a good Christmas book. I see no reason to relegate Christmas magic to December. A little bit of magic is good at any time of year.

        All the fiction books were fun, it’s your pick! I enjoyed the book by Bill Bryson, and I suspect it would be especially fun as an audio book to take advantage of any British accents. I will be looking for more of Bryson’s books on a future trip to the library.

        I hope all of my Ohio friends are safe and warm after yesterday’s little snowstorm. Our temperatures had been in the 60’s which resulted in me doing yard work. Yesterday we had several inches of snow, and winds. Today, it’s back to the 50’s, and 60’s in the days following. This is Ohio. We are not surprised.