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.
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
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.
I thought I would share pictures that inspire me to stay indoors and read as I share my lists of books read. And with this post, I will be up to date on sharing my reading progress! I didn’t complete many books in January. I’m not quite sure why. Must have been too much television and too many magazines.
Books Read in December 2023:
The Bone Hacker-Kathy Reichs
Tempe Brennan, forensic anthropologist, travels to the Turks and Caicos Islands on this unexpected case. Bones are found on the island, and everything is hush hush because it would be bad for tourism. Tempe uncovers evidence that is leading to the killers, but will she solve the case in time?
2. The Milkweed Lands-Eric Lee-Mader (Non-fiction)
This book has lovely illustrations to go along with the text. Very informative with information about various insects and animals, life stages, and much more.
3. Pretty Pastel Style-Selina Lake (Non-fiction)
This is about decorating in pastel colors. It covers every room in the house, plus workspaces and outdoor spaces. The pictures are gorgeous.
4. A Simple Act of Gratitude-John Kralik (Non-fiction)
The author decides to see if he can change his less than happy life by being more grateful. He undertakes a year plus of writing 365 thank you notes. This book was not fast paced or full of exciting stories. I kept with it because I thought I would obtain value from reading it, and I did. There are lessons to be learned about the difference simple, kind acts can make.
5. Botanical Style-Selina Lake (Non-fiction)
A design and style book with beautiful photographs. There are some simple projects included too.
6. The Land of Lost Things-John Connolly
This is a dark fairy tale that begins and ends in our world. I enjoyed the story of Ceres who falls through a hole in a tree and comes out in another world. She must fight off all sorts of evil creatures to return home to care for her daughter. I did not realize this is the second book in a series, but it stands alone so that was ok. I will read the first book (The Book of Lost Things) sometime because I enjoyed this fantasy world.
7. Treacle Walker-Alan Garner
This is a short little book with another story that I would call a fairy tale. I found the story to be confusing and hard to follow. I understood enough to get something out of the tale though.
Magazines: Entertain & Celebrate Christmas, HGTV The Christmas Idea Book, Hobby Farms, Cottages & Bungalows
Zekie Bear during the winter snow.
Books Read in January 2024:
The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp-Leonie Swann
I had a bit of trouble following the plot because some of the characters suffer from forgetfulness and dementia. A group of elderly folks live together in a house rather than going into residential care. They all have responsibilities and look out for each other. This works well until the murdered bodies start appearing. They must solve the crimes to stay safe and continue living in their home. The plot took some unexpected turns that kept me reading once I got past the slow start.
2. The Edge of Maine-Geoffrey Wolff (Non-fiction)
A National Geographic Directions book. The author talks about his experiences sailing the coast of Maine, peppered with local lore and history. Some stories are more interesting than others. Overall, I enjoyed the book.
3. Dead Mountain-Preston & Child
This is the first book I have read by these authors, and I will be reading more. FBI agent Corrie Swanson calls in her friend, archaeologist Nora Kelly to work on a case. Nine hikers disappeared under mysterious circumstances years ago and the case was never solved. Two more bodies were recently found, and the two women work together to try to solve the case. There are numerous twists and turns as new information is discovered.
Magazines: Cottages & Bungalows, Christmas Joy, Woman’s Day (2), Good Housekeeping (2), Food & Wine
No one of these books really stood out to me among the others, although several were good. If you want a thriller that will keep you reading, go with Dead Mountain. Otherwise, it just depends on your mood. I find that I like different books at different times. And I am often reading two simultaneously. I usually have a fiction book and a non-fiction one that I am working on. My mood and how quiet the house is decide which one I will pick up.
Grab a book and a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy!
Hello Friends, I hope this new year is treating you well! Here is another double installment from my reading list in the hopes of getting up to date at some point.
My Book List from October:
1. Wait for It-Jenn McKinlay
Annabelle Martin moves to take a job across the country with her best friend’s firm in Phoenix. She is escaping to a new life away from her ex-husbands. She lives in a small house at the back of her reclusive landlord’s property. He uses a wheelchair and never comes outside so she assumes he is elderly. This turns out to be far from the truth. Annabelle struggles with sabotage at her new job, makes new friends, and gets to know her landlord. Quite well. Loved the book.
2. Follow the Blue Blaze: A Guide to Hiking the Buckeye Trail-Robert J. Pond (Non-fiction)
A summary of Ohio’s Buckye Trail. The book provides general information as well as information about various sections of the trail. The book does not give detailed trail maps. Those you must purchase from the Buckeye Trail Association.
3. The House in the Cerulean Sea-TJ Klune
This science fiction tale surrounds an orphanage for magical children. There are sprites and a wyvern, among others. Linus Baker works for a government entity that checks on such things and is assigned there for a month to monitor the living conditions. He learns about how special each child is, including the director of the orphanage, and his life will never be the same. Thank goodness. A very enjoyable story about acceptance.
4. Milk Street Noodles-Christopher Kimball (Cookbook)
I learned a lot about different types of noodles and the recipes look delicious. Most however, require one or several ingredients that I don’t have, and my kitchen is fairly well stocked. Back to the library it goes.
5. The Ultimate Guide to Painting from Photographs-Markle & Vanover (Non-fiction)
This is a step-by-step book for specific types of paintings and beyond my skill level at this point. I skimmed the book and learned some handy tips.
6. The Simple Art of Rice-JJ Johnson (Cookbook)
I never knew there were so many kinds of rice! Tiara Purple, Poho Flattened, Bhutanese Red. Lots of info and recipes. I can’t decide what to make because so many look good.
7. Livid-Patricia Cornwall
Dr. Scarpetta is a witness in a televised court case. The judge in the case is Scarpetta’s college roommate and friend. Things become even crazier when the judge’s sister is killed at home. Another glimpse into the life of our favorite forensic medical examiner.
8. Must Love Flowers-Debbie Macomber
Joan Sample has trouble dealing with the fact that she is a sudden widow and an empty nester. So much so that she rarely leaves the house. When the homeowner’s association sends a letter complaining about her yard, things must change. At the suggestion of her sister, she tries counseling and even takes in a young boarder. There are more bumps in the road, but Joan’s life starts changing as she takes control of the reins again.
Magazines: Dogster (2), All Recipes-Fall Recipes, America’s Favorite Pumpkin Recipes, Bella Grace, Country Living
My Book List from November:
1. The Door to Door Bookstore-Carsten Henn
The story takes place in Germany. Carl Kollhoff has spent his career working for a bookseller. He specializes in doing in person drop offs of requested books. He is suddenly joined by 9 year old Schascha and he has no idea why. Carl loses his job and his purpose. It will take the power of books and friends to overcome. I found this book to be a little slow paced, but it has a good message.
2. Summer Reading-Jenn McKinlay
Samantha Gale spends the summer at her family home on Martha’s Vineyard to take care of her 14 year old brother while her father and stepmother take a vacation. Sam is a chef who has just left her job under unpleasant circumstances. It will be nice to hang out with her best friend. Turns out it is nice hanging out with the town’s interim library director too. Only Sam is dyslexic. Hello, awkward! Can she win over the librarian, her brother, and find a job? I always love McKinlay’s books.
3. What It Takes to Save a Life-Dr Kwane Stewart (Non-fiction)
One man’s struggle to overcome tough times and become a veterinarian. What a great book. He goes on to volunteer treating the pets of the homeless in addition to his regular job.
4. The Twelve Dogs of Christmas-Susan Wiggs
Brenda Malloy dislikes cold and snow, and most especially Christmas. Even more so once her dog has to go to the emergency vet after eating another woman’s panties. So, of course she finds herself helping drive a load of shelter dogs north from Texas to the Catskills to their new homes for Christmas. She meets paramedic Adam Bellamy and everything in her life changes.
5. The Little Book of Hygge-Meik Wiking (Non-fiction)
This book explains why Danes are continually voted the happiest people in the world. Includes lots of survey results and ways to apply the answers to your own life. Also, the book itself is enjoyable.
6. A December to Remember-Jenny Bayliss
This book is a little different than the other Bayliss books I have read. The others have been romances. Although this one has romance, I think it is more about families. It took me a little while to get sucked into the story line, and I’m glad I stuck with it. Three estranged half-sisters go back to the village of Rowan Thorp for the reading of their Father’s will. They must work together to earn their inheritance.
Magazines: Woman’s Day (2), Down East, Forks Over Knives, Entertain & Celebrate Autumn
My top picks from these lists? If you’re going for fun, always read the Jenn McKinlay books. The one that made me think, long after I read it? The House in the Cerulean Sea. It made me feel good in addition to making me think about acceptance.
I hope you all stay warm and safe from the snow we are having today!
These flowers were in bloom in August when I read these books!
Hello friends! I hope everyone enjoyed time with friends and/or family. I certainly did! Whether you had turkey or something else, the important thing is that it was shared with love. I am way behind in reporting on the books I have been reading, so this post is a twofer. I’m sharing two months of titles. Then I will technically only be one month behind because November isn’t over yet!
Books I Read in August 2023:
Pineapple Street-Jenny Jackson
I picked this book up because it got good reviews. It centers around a very wealthy family from old money in New York City. To my mind, the family is a bunch of whiners who don’t know how good they have it. I guess that could describe many of us. And maybe that is the point. Some of the family members change by the end and some do not. It was an ok book.
2. Almost Everything-Anne LaMott (Non-fiction)
Anne LaMott writes inspirational prose, mostly from personal experience. This book is an inspiration and at the least, makes you think. Always a good thing.
3. The Backup Plan-Jill Shalvis
Alice receives an inheritance of one third of a Wild West B & B. The other shares go to her once, and now estranged, best friend and her high school crush. They have one month to get the inn into shape. Can Alice overcome her past demons before the month is over? Not Shalvis’ best book in my opinion but still fun.
4. All the Days of Summer-Nancy Thayer
Heather’s marriage is dead, and her son is graduating from college and has a serious girlfriend. She decides it is time to discover what makes her happy and rents a cottage on Nantucket for the summer until her divorce is finalized. It turns out that’s where her son and his girlfriend will be living, and working, with her very wealthy parents. It looks like Heather followed them and she has to assure the spoiled Kailee that she did not. Heather manages to build a life for herself but what will happen at summer’s end?
5. Start Painting Now-Emily Powell & Sarah Moore (Non-fiction)
This book is about the creative process rather than about painting techniques. I can apply a large percentage of the content to my writing since it is also an art. And who knows, maybe I’ll give painting a try!
6. The Dinner Party Project-Natasha Feldman (Cookbook)
A fun take on inviting people over for dinner. Has organizational tips and recipes.
7. 100 Days of Adventure-Greta Eskridge (Non-fiction)
This book is from the kids ‘section. I checked it out thinking I might find some fun things to do with my nieces. The lists were pretty basic and mostly things I had already thought of. Still, it’s a cute book and might be especially good for those who are home schooling.
8. The Sweetheart List-Jill Shalvis
Have you figured out yet that I pick up everything this author writes, lol. Harper Shaw moves west to the Sierras to get a fresh start on life. She soon encounters a hunky guy she isn’t interested in and takes in a runaway teen. All while opening her own bakery and acquiring a cranky new friend. Another fun read.
9. Dog Tales: The Book-Luann Stuver Rogers (Non-fiction)
This author wrote a column in our local newspaper for a number of years. The book is a compilation of the weekly articles. I read most of them at the time and am having fun reading them again. The tales feature the author’s numerous dogs consisting of two greyhounds and a bevy of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. They feature dog sports as well as everyday life.
Magazines: Best Friends, Country Living
A September photo for you from the time I was reading books on this list.
Books I Read in September 2023:
Death by Chocolate Marshmallow Pie-Sarah Graves
I enjoy the books from this series for a multitude of reasons. Maine. Baking. Chocolate. Cozy mystery. Jake’s best friend Ellie is accused of murder when the shop owner across the street is found shot. He had just opened a shop that competed with theirs, selling chocolate baked goods at a lower price. Jake is run ragged trying to find the killer and keep order at her own home when her perfectly healthy father decides to move him and his wife to assisted living. Things go humorously wrong on all fronts.
2. Earth’s the Right Place for Love-Elizabeth Berg
This is the prequel to The Story of Arthur Truluv which was a wonderful book. The story is about Arthur and his family and how Nola comes into his life. Nola is the love of his life and future wife. It is a very real feeling story.
3. The McCullagh Inn in Maine-Jen McLaughlin
This is a quick read at just 137 pages. Chelsea O’Kane is on the run from an abusive husband. She runs to an inn she inherited in Maine where she encounters her first love Jeremy Holland. There is a lot going on that is not revealed to us until the end of the story. This made it a less than satisfying read for me. I was also disappointed that Maine life didn’t play into the story, it really could have been anywhere.
4. Viayia-Anastasia Miari (Cookbook)
The title of the book means grandmother in Greek. These are traditional Greek recipes. There are as many write ups about grandmas as there are recipes. I enjoyed reading about the different Greek islands and the stories of the women even more than the recipes.
5. The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley-Courtney Walsh
This book is not for me. I got about 50 pages in and still waiting for something to happen. Back to the library it goes.
6. The Clutter Remedy: A Guide to Getting Organized for Those Who Love Their Stuff-Marla Stone (Non-fiction)
I hoped this would have lots of organizational tips but it’s the same old stuff. Clean, sort, purge. Does address emotional reasons for holding on to things.
7. The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly-Margareta Magnusson (Non-fiction)
The author shares advice about gracefully. This is told mostly through tales of her life with the chapter titles summarizing the point.
8. The Stand-Stephen King (page 747-1153)
I finally finished! I found this last quarter of the book to hold my attention better than the earlier parts. In it, society is starting to rebound from the mass deaths. The Dark One still needs to be dealt with and a few heroic, average people take up the challenge. I found this book to be so distressing because the happenings are a little too real. Especially since Covid.
9. To Catch a Treat-Linda O. Johnston
Carrie Kennersly owns a bakery for dogs as well as a bakery for humans. She is also a part time veterinary technician. In between jobs, she still finds time to look for a killer so she can clear her brother’s girlfriend. The crimes center around dog napping so there are plenty of canine themed plots.
Magazines: Country Living, Best Friends, Better Homes & Gardens Fall Recipes, Cooking Light Mediterranean Diet, Cottages & Bungalows Christmas Issue
This photo sums up a large part of the reason why I have been behind on posting my lists of books read. Watering, weeding, fertilizing, pruning and deadheading. That’s why. With this post I will be caught up. At least until the calendar flips at the end of the month. So follows my list of books read for July.
Forever and a Day-Jill Shalvis
Grace Brooks arrives in Lucky Harbor to figure out what will make her life happy. Answering an accidental call from Dr. Josh Scott, she agrees to be the dog walker and then temporary nanny to his five year old son. Grace takes care of the son Toby and paraplegic sister Anna. Grace is there for Josh too. Some families are built rather than born and they are worth the work.
2. Send a Ranger-Tom Habecker (Non-fiction)
A summary of a 32 year career as a ranger serving the National Parks system. From Washington D.C. to Gettysburg, then Yosemite to Glacier to Denali National Park, it was quite a career. The book covers day to day functions such as maintenance, law enforcement, and rescues. The author also shared the beauty and grandeur of the scenery and wildlife. It was interesting to hear what the life of a ranger is really like.
3. OMFG, Bees!-Matt Kracht (Non/fiction)
A hand-illustrated guide with everything you ever wanted to know about bees. The drawings are adorable and the information is presented in a lighthearted, funny way.
4. Ruby Spencer’s Whisky Year-Rochelle Bilow
Ruby quits her high-powered job and moves to Scotland for a year to write a cookbook. She rents a tiny cottage and helps with cooking at the adjacent local pub to help pay her rent. Ruby becomes part of the local community and feels that she has come home, especially after meeting a village Scotsman. It was fun being immersed in this bit of Scottish life.
5. The Café at Beach End-RaeAnne Thayer
Meredith Collins is trying to get her life in order after her ex-husband swindles many people out of their retirement savings. Most people feel she was involved even though she was as surprised as everyone else. Meredith moves from Chicago to a small beach cottage she inherited from her grandmother. It’s all she has left. Her estranged cousin Tori still lives nearby. Her undercover neighbor is looking for clues as to where Meredith’s ex-husband hid the money before he died in prison. Lots of storylines going on here. It made for an enjoyable read.
6. Subpar Parks-Amber Share (Non-fiction)
This book is humorous, informative, and has nice graphic art. Each of America’s National Parks has a chapter starting with the worst and most humorous review. Ie. Crater National Park,”Just something to look at and leave”. I think some people should just stay home. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and learned a lot about our parks.
Magazines: Dogster, Cottages and Bungalows, The English Home, AARP, Country Living, Down East
Yesterday’s vegetables!
This picture also illustrates the comment about why I am behind with posting my book lists and posting in general. I gave about half of these away to my daughter and mother-in-law. This evening, we are having sweet and sour eggplant with peppers and a few green beans served on Jasmine rice for dinner.
I keep four different varieties of rice on hand. Jasmine, brown Basmati, long grain, and short grain. They all have a different taste and texture that makes them preferable for different dishes. Sometimes, I buy long grain and wild rice too. Not bad for a girl whose only exposure to rice growing up was the occasional Minute Rice for our canned La Choy “Chinese food”. My tastes have expanded from when I was growing up and our winter vegetables consisted of canned corn, peas, or green beans. I don’t think our family was all that unusual for the times. The variety of foods that we have now were not as readily available then. At least not where I lived. This may be part of the reason I enjoy growing and cooking such a wide range of things now.
My friends, I hope you are enjoying the bounty of summer as well. Until next time…Peace be with you.
Reading a book is like taking your mind for a walk down a long path.
One day I will get caught up on posting my Books Read lists. Today is not that day, but here is the next one. Only one month behind now. In addition to watering and weeding, my days are now consumed with harvesting, cooking, and freezing. Not a bad thing. It was the desired end goal of all the watering and weeding. I am also searching things on-line like “Different Ways to Use Cucumbers”. We must have 30 pounds of cucumbers. The output is slowing down. Meanwhile, we have a plethora of cucumbers. I feel like George’s mother in Seinfeld. “What am I going to do with all this paella?” (Insert cucumbers for paella.) According to Pinterest, you can sauté and even bake cucumbers. If I get brave enough, we will find out how well this works.
On to my book list:
The Sisters of Sea View-Julie Klassen
Sarah Summers and her sisters must find a way to make money if they want to keep their home. They begin taking in paying guests. One sister prefers a job reading to the disadvantaged. Her first assignment is reading to Major Hutton next door. The Major suffered military injuries and is not elderly as she expected. Between the boarders and other characters, there are many likable people in the book, and some are less so. The setting is Victorian England. An enjoyable story.
2. Afternoon Tea Is the New Happy Hour-Gail Greco (Cookbook)
This is a fun book. It has general information about tea and accessories. There are also fun recipes for various teas and foods to go with.
3. I’m So Effing Hungry-Amy Shah, MD (Non-fiction)
A book about why we crave what we crave and what to do about it. Useful and enlightening information. The answer isn’t just one thing, it’s many things from diet to 12 hour fasts, correct sleep, type of exercise, and circadian rhythms. Changes are explained through changes in various hunger hormones and studies are cited. As with anything, it’s not an all or none approach. I am of the opinion that if we learn one worthwhile thing from a book, it was worth our time.
4. The Plant Love Kitchen-Marisa Moore (Cookbook)
Information about transitioning to a plant based diet with small amounts of other foods. Good information and some interesting recipes.
5. Rescue Dogs-Sally Muir (Non-fiction)
This is a book featuring paintings of rescue dogs accompanied by a few sentences about the dogs. The dogs are from multiple countries, many from Britain. Lots of sight hounds and terriers. Very cute.
6. The Comfort Book-Matt Haig (Non-fiction)
This is a compilation of thoughts, ideas, and stories that Haig has recorded for himself to be used during difficult times. It is a wonderfully uplifting book. The words are also good input and inspiration for those who are not currently experiencing rough times. I think it could have also been called The Hope Book.
7. Forest Walking-Peter Wohlleben & Jane Billinghurst (Non-fiction)
This is a book about the life cycle of forests from the large to the microscopic. It also contains tips to make hiking more pleasurable. I spent my career working as an environmental scientist and still learned a lot from this book. Not the most exciting book I’ve ever read, but informative.
8. Under the Whispering Door-TJ Klune
A science fiction book that examines life and death. Wallace dies and is retrieved from his own funeral then delivered to a whimsical house. He is to spend time here until he is ready to cross over to what is next. Along the way, he builds loyalty to new friends and forms a family-worthy bond. Wallace transforms from a nasty man into a caring person before it is time to set off on his next phase. In this story, death is not the end. This book is awesome! It was slow to get going. At page 40, I didn’t know if I would finish it. By page 200 I couldn’t put it down.
9. The Stand-Stephen King (pages 500-749)
I should have included this on last month’s list, but I forgot. The book is well over 1,000 pages, so I’m reading it in installments. Between the fact that it is long, and I have to take breaks because it is depressing, it will take me a while to get through this one. Also, I had to return it to the library, so I will have to check it out again later. I am reading this one, because it is on so many “best of” lists.
Magazines: Taste of Home (2 issues), Grit, Naturally, Danny Seo, The Seasonal Home
My number one recommendation from this month’s list? Under the Whispering Door! If you are not tolerant of books that do not have a Christian outlook, this book may not be for you. The fact that the main character is not Christian is only referenced a couple times, and the book has so much to offer, I think it is well worth the read.
Wow, I am really behind on sharing the books I have read. Gardening is all I can blame it on. That or I’ve been lazy and I sure don’t feel like I’ve been lazy. With the summer drought so far, watering takes up a significant portion of the morning. I have also run the small rototiller a few times to keep the weeds down. Now the vegetable plants are too big to get the tiller between the rows. We will have turnips, beets, cucumbers, zucchini, and green beans all ready soon. It’s a race to see which will be our first veggie to ripen! Anyway, without further ado, here is my list of books.
1. Be the Light that You Are-Debra Landwehr Engle
This book boasts ten simple ways to transform your world with love. Like any inspirational self-help type book, I found some ideas that were worthwhile and some that found me thinking “I do not agree with that at all”. I think that if I get one or two positive ideas from a book, then it was a good investment of my time in reading it.
2. The Confession Club-Elizabeth Berg
A group of ladies in a small town start a monthly supper club, it soon becomes a weekly confession club. No judgment, just listening and occasional advice. Lives change when people are accepted for who they are and the ladies become a source of emotional and hands on support for each other. Berg understands how to convey relationships.
3. The Embroidered Closet-Alexandra Stratkotter (Non-fiction)
A crafty book showing you how to enhance your wardrobe and bags with your own embroidery. Provides design templates and instructions. What a cute book! I think I would rather come up with my own designs but still these ideas are fun.
4. Feral: Losing Myself and Finding My Way in America-Emily Pennington (Non-fiction)
The author has saved up and quit her job to hike all of America’s National Parks. Shortly after she starts, the Covid pandemic hits and she suffers a lengthy break up with her boyfriend. These tragedies play a big part of the story. The tales of hiking through the natural beauty are inspiring. And Emily has an impressive amount of experience and hiking skills. Complete with being able to climb a cliff of ice!
5. Big Dog, Small Dog-Selina McIntyre (Non-fiction)
This book is a nice blend of training techniques and anecdotes. I learned a few things and reviewed reviewed others which is always good.
Magazines: Mother Earth News
These books are all so different that I can’t really recommend one above the others. It depends what type of book you’re in the mood for. Enjoy!
I have been remiss in posting my reading list for April. I thought I better get to it since May is almost over too. My only excuse is that I have been doing lots of gardening. The vegetable garden went in on Monday. The flower beds are in good shape for this time of year. I still have some more dahlia korms to plant and a few seedlings to transfer. And we are having a bit of a spring drought which means we must water, water, water! And so, at long last, here is the list.
1. Tiny beautiful things-Advice on love and life from Dear Sugar-Cheryl Strayed (Non-fiction)
And here I thought she just hiked the Pacific Crest Trail. Turns out Cheryl was also an advice columnist. And quite a good one. Her answers are essays that we can all learn something from. I was impressed.
2. Killer Cupid-Laurien Berenson
Melanie Travis can get involved in a murder investigation anywhere she goes. This time it’s on a romantic Valentine’s Day retreat with her husband. I always enjoy the books from this series.
3. Red Dog-Louis De Bernieres
This work of fiction is a take on the life of a real dog who was mostly Australian Kelpie. It takes place in Australia. Red is owned by no one and everyone. His was a short life full of adventure which is shared here.
4. We Are the Light-Matthew Quick
This story is told through letters from Lucas Goodgame to his psychologist. He is a survivor of a mass shooting that took the lives of 17, including his wife, at the local theater. The shooter’s younger brother, Eli, takes up residence in a tent in Lucas’ backyard. The two forge a bond and undertake a project that they hope will heal the survivors and young Eli. At first, I wasn’t going to read this book because it sounded depressing but it got good reviews, so I gave it a chance. The book turned out to be beautiful and uplifting! I highly recommend it.
5. Said No One Ever-Stephanie Eding
Ellie Reed takes a vacation to Montana by herself after breaking up with her fiancé and boyfriend of six years. Upon arrival, her host is taken away by ambulance, leaving her with several farm animals and a bulldog to care for. She becomes entwined in the lives of her elderly hostess Marilyn and Marilyn’s grumpy grandson. What a fun book this was!
6. The Stand-Stephen King
This book is on many “Best Books” lists so I decided to give it a read. I am reading other books while I read this one because it is 1,154 pages and I find it to be depressing. Especially since the Covid pandemic. In the story, an infectious respiratory illness wipes out 99.9% of the population. Those few who remain congregate and follow either 102 year old Mother Abigail or The Dark One-Randall Flagg. I completed the first 500 pages of this book in April.
If you only have time to read one book from this list, I recommend We Are the Light. It is more about love than it is about death. And we all need more love. Peace to you, my friends.
Magazines: Yankee, Country Living, Country Living the Complete Book of Fixer Uppers, Cooking Light Mediterranean Diet, Midwest Living, Horticulture, The English Garden
Hello, dear readers. Please forgive me for not posting for a while. Our dear Baxter, shown with me above, suddenly stopped eating even though he was still hiking two and a half miles a day with us. Long story short, he was gone in less than two weeks. Our veterinarian found metastasized cancer on his chest x-ray. Baxter was 14 years old but as far as we knew, he was in good health. Although going quickly was a blessing for Baxter, it was especially difficult for us. I will write about Baxter in future blog posts but I’m not ready just yet. So on to my list of books read last month.
The Mediterranean Dish-Suzy Karadsheh (Cookbook)
This book was not what I expected. Based on the title I thought it was going to be Italian type recipes. Instead, they are Egyptian, Moroccan, and Greek. The recipes do look delicious, but most involve grains or spices that I do not have on hand. Many of the recipes also look labor intensive. If you are looking for these types of dishes, I think you will love this book. However, it is not for me so back to the library it goes.
2. Bliss on Toast-Prue Leith (Cookbook)
This book contains many delicious looking recipes for meals served on various breads, flatbreads, and crisps. I don’t really need a recipe to make most of them. I just got the book out of the library for the ideas. I do modify most recipes I make and just need the basic ideas and sometimes amounts.
3. A Christmas Memory-Richard Paul Evans
This is a very good book, as are all of Evans’ books. This one is based on the author’s childhood experiences. It is 1967 and young Richard’s older brother is killed in Vietnam, his parents separate, they move from California to Utah, and he is bullied at school. The bright spot in his life is his elderly neighbor Mr. Foster and the neighbor’s dog Beau. A story about growing up, perseverance, and kindness from where you least expect it.
4. The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2023 (Non-fiction)
Self explanatory. Interesting tidbits in addition to the weather forecasts by region.
5. Oh William!-Elizabeth Strout
Lucy Barton talks about her life as well as that of her ex-husband William. Although this book is a Pulitzer Prize winner, I did not enjoy it nearly as much as the sequel Lucy by the Sea. Lucy seems a little bit whiny to me and I don’t connect with her character.
6. Born a Crime-Trevor Noah (Non-fiction)
This is an autobiography by the previous host of The Daily Show who is from South Africa. What an amazing young man. He is the son of a black woman and a white man. Born during apartheid, this was illegal. He was a self-described naughty child. His story is enlightening and taught me many things about the culture of South Africa and what it was like during apartheid. The way Trevor turned his life around is nothing short of amazing. This book is well worth your time.
7. The Bookshop of Secrets-Mollie Rushmeyer
Hope Sparrow was a victim of human trafficking and remained captive for 10 years. She finally managed to escape and is trying to live a normal life. Hope’s mother left her some valuable books that Hope needs to retrieve. She gets a job at a family bookstore where they were stored so she can look for them. The books harbor clues that are fabled to lead to treasure. She hooks up with local, Ronan, whose family was also involved. Can she trust a man? Will they find supposed pirate loot?
Magazines: Real Simple (2), Yankee
Hope you are all enjoying spring. We were, up until today when it started snowing. Our new magnolia tree and the plum trees are not appreciative. Oh, moody Ohio!
Sanctuary Acres 