Member: VictoriaPL

Hi:

Just wanted to let you know that I have finished and loved Dark Places!

posted by jonesli at 8:23 pm (EST) on Dec 25, 2009

Merry Christmas, Victoria. Have a wonderful day inside, hopefully with new books to sustain you. Greeting to all, with pats to Feni and Modo.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 7:33 am (EST) on Dec 25, 2009

Merry Christmas to you also!

I am a little under the weather but that did not stop me from stopping into Borders Express and being a bad girl!

I just could not stop until I owned at least one Barefoot Contessa cookbook (love her) and I got a book by Haruki Murakami and the Likeness (but I have not read In the Woods haha)

Talk to you soon.

Lisa

posted by jonesli at 2:05 pm (EST) on Dec 24, 2009

Merry Christmas to you too!

posted by cmbohn at 1:50 am (EST) on Dec 24, 2009

No I didnt get one either! I thought we would be a shoe in for either one of those books. Damn the algorithm!!!

posted by Belladonna1975 at 11:50 pm (EST) on Dec 22, 2009

Hi there:

I am trying to refresh my memory about Trouble Is My Business. I have to get my act together for the new year challenge, I have to finish tagging the books and editing my collections and such. Ooh, I see you have a collection for the best of 2009. I have to go through what I read and see what I come up with.

Would you believe I have not selected my first book for the new year lol?

posted by jonesli at 5:44 pm (EST) on Dec 22, 2009

I have spent your lovely giftcard, thank you very much. I have five new books to find shelf space, one of which I've been trying to find for awhile and three others from my wishlist. Things are oddly arranged, but that's charming in a used bookstore.

I'm glad the chocolate is good. Has it caused you to surf Robert Pattinson fan sites yet?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:39 pm (EST) on Dec 22, 2009

I'll wait. Maybe something will come up that grabs me. No time limit, right?

Were you aware that YA fiction now consists exclusively of vampire romances? On the other hand, remember V.C. Andrews?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:53 pm (EST) on Dec 21, 2009

See you then at the Atlanta Bread Company! Will Modo be joining us?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:14 pm (EST) on Dec 21, 2009

Will I like it? You know, after Naoko, I will just trust your judgment. I do have a few of my own that fit, so it's not an emergency. X is, however, and Q, because I don't want to reread the Quinqunx, which was good, but not that good. I may have to give Dave Eggers another go with Zeitoun.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:50 am (EST) on Dec 21, 2009

I do believe that I am done with my Christmas shopping and it would take a much bigger discount to get me to brave the mall. We will be going to B&N tomorrow as I got my niece a giftcard for Christmas, which we are celebrating tomorrow. She's a bookworm and two years older than Charlotte, which means Charlotte will read more than usual for a few weeks after her visit. They are out now seeing "New Moon" but I got to stay home because of Max. He is watching "G Force" which is about special forces guinea pigs, which beat sexy vampires with feelings any day.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:55 pm (EST) on Dec 19, 2009

Thank you. I'll let people know when we get to that point.
And feel free to send people our way if they want to do a more in depth discussion. It's looking like we might get to read Stefan Zweig. At least, I'm crossing my fingers!

posted by lilisin at 3:18 pm (EST) on Dec 18, 2009

Think we'll have snow? We had an adventure--last night I went to bring the rabbits in and one was missing. Dirk and I scoured around the house and neighborhood at eleven at night, with flashlights. No one called the cops, so, seriously, no one looks out their windows, ever. No luck. Early this morning I told Charlotte, who cried and cried, then went out and found her bad bunny.

Be careful on your drive to work in the morning.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:58 pm (EST) on Dec 17, 2009

Consider it done!

posted by cmbohn at 7:01 pm (EST) on Dec 17, 2009

Oh...ummm... my ticker is in sad need of an update. (Hence the turkey and the pumpkin pie!) I've actually finished 83 (or maybe more?) books this year but I sort of abandoned my 999 challenge. I couldn't complete my classics category. Although in all fairness if I count Pride & Prejudice & Zombies and my two-thirds completion of Vanity Fair maybe I've made it... I'll have to take a look at my thread and see what I can do...

posted by elbakerone at 4:47 pm (EST) on Dec 17, 2009

I wasn't going to post a review for Naoko, but there was only one there. Why haven't you added a review? I did enjoy Naoko, although I had many other things that I should have been doing instead of reading it.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 2:01 pm (EST) on Dec 16, 2009

Thank you!

Let's see if I can stay on my challenge course in the coming year. It's bothering me that I still don't have all my books set for my 1010, but maybe that's a good thing for me!

Talk to you later.

posted by jonesli at 8:09 pm (EST) on Dec 15, 2009

Really? I'm getting pretty normal results:
http://www.librarything.com/tag/DNBRD200...

Where are you searching? I'm really hoping it's not already an acronym for something!

Sonya

posted by sonyagreen at 6:21 pm (EST) on Dec 15, 2009

I'm sorry about your Gaiman experience. Wasn't there supposed to be a limited number of people there? I've been at bad book signings, but always as a bookstore employee. At least you have your beautiful, albeit unsigned, hardcover to comfort you?

Off to get the kids and then a trip to the library to return books before they are due, for a change. Guests arrive Friday and I am not even close to ready. I had meant to get everything done a good week in advance and so be all relaxed and ready for them. I did bathe Emmy, though, so at least one pet is not stenchy. Actually, all the others smell fine, except Meatloaf, who has a flatulence issue that a bath cannot help.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:20 pm (EST) on Dec 15, 2009

How was the Gaiman signing? I hope you guys had a great day out. I just started Naoko and it's really good. Thanks for lending it to me! I'll get it back to you next week.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:58 am (EST) on Dec 15, 2009

Thanks, Victoria!

posted by mstrust at 4:58 pm (EST) on Dec 13, 2009

Happy Birthday!

As for the Bogey movies the other day, there were a few that looked to be from around 1939 that I caught glimpses of. They seem to show good stuff during early morning hours like 3 am or during the day.

I saw parts of Invisible Stripes (with George Raft and Bill Holden) Oklahoma Kid( with James Cagney) King of the Underworld, and then of course the ones I love: They Drive by Night and High Sierra, and the Barefoot Contessa. Hmm, I think I may include him in my bio category for my 1010.

Have a good weekend, I will be baking cookies forever!

posted by jonesli at 5:31 pm (EST) on Dec 11, 2009

Is today your birthday? Happy Birthday to you!!!

July will be great for me. I am so sorry that I took so long to get back to you. Our computer has been broken and we just finally got it fixed. I am pretty excited about the book and may let my girls get a sneak peek over the Christmas holidays. Take care and thanks for putting this together!
--BJ

posted by billiejean at 2:49 pm (EST) on Dec 11, 2009

Happy Birthday!!!!!!!!

posted by Belladonna1975 at 1:16 pm (EST) on Dec 11, 2009

It does take awhile to adjust to a new phone, but you'll love it before long. The full keyboard is nice to have. Does yours also have an organizer function? I thought I was more a paper and pencil person, but I use the phone now for everything. Congrats on your new phone--just in time for your Gaiman book signing. Take a picture for your profile.

It is cold! I am putting off taking the dogs out for a walk, but need to do it soon. Must find my wool socks.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:05 pm (EST) on Dec 11, 2009

I'm looking forward to it, and thanks for letting me join the read!

Jennifer

posted by mstrust at 11:59 am (EST) on Dec 11, 2009

Happy Early Birthday! Tomorrow looks to be a super busy day so I thought I would wish you a wonderful weekend in advance! :)

posted by elbakerone at 4:26 pm (EST) on Dec 10, 2009

Your friend is probably right. I started with this beautiful wall of white bookcases floor to ceiling thinking "There is no way I can fill those up!" and now I have books in boxes, books laying sideways on top of other books (Oh,the horror!!!) and cabinets slammed full of books.
I think that is why I decided to do the TBR challenge this year. I really need to thin the herd. I still say that I have a whole other wall to put more bookcases on. All it would require would to be to pull the couch out about 3 feet!

posted by Belladonna1975 at 10:56 am (EST) on Dec 10, 2009

I now have a few titles. Thanks. She used to love fantasy, so I picked the ones that seemed to merge the two genres.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:04 am (EST) on Dec 10, 2009

Yep, but then he put his stuff on top of all the surfaces I had painstakingly cleared.

Still hunting for suitable books for the sister in law. Do you have any suggestions? The one genre (well, and war books, celebrity biographies and Christian romances) I just don't read. I may just make sure to save the receipt and plan a trip to B&N.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:34 am (EST) on Dec 10, 2009

So, two weeks ago, I cleared off the top of a dresser stuck in a corner, dusted off the bookends that were rendered obsolete by BookMooch and put a pretty row of hardcovers, eight of them, on the dresser top. It looked nice and got them tidied away. Well, now the dresser top is full. I think that my books just expand to fill any new space I find for them.

Bravo for publicly revealing your previous shelving arrangement.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:18 am (EST) on Dec 10, 2009

There's a discussion on how not to organize your books on the BookMooch forum. A great deal about the insanity of organizing one's books by the color of the spine, do you plan to weigh in?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:09 pm (EST) on Dec 9, 2009

I just got one of them, a like-new hardcover. I am very pleased at how pretty it is. However, my next book has to be my ER book.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:27 pm (EST) on Dec 9, 2009

That does not bode well! Hopefully, this will be (another) book that we disagree on and I'll love it beyond all reason!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 2:19 pm (EST) on Dec 9, 2009

April in Paris by Michael Wallner--an Alan Furst-like noir set in occupied Paris with a doomed love story. I am excited to get this, but wonder how I could mooch it twice in a row! I guess I'll keep the prettier copy - one is an ARC and the other is the trade paperback.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:52 pm (EST) on Dec 9, 2009

I'm fine with whenever. Tues or Wed that week before Christmas.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:53 am (EST) on Dec 9, 2009

That is fine. July it is!

posted by Belladonna1975 at 10:04 am (EST) on Dec 9, 2009

How are Fenimore's aches and pains in the rain?

My dogs refuse to go out. Meatloaf asks, sticks his nose out the door and then decides he can wait. He repeats this every ten minutes until he decides to go for it.

I got my ER book for Nov. this morning. It felt like a Christmas present. I do believe that this month is your month. Who else deserves those two books?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:54 pm (EST) on Dec 8, 2009

It's a good day to stay indoor, reading and dreaming about Key West.

The cat just came in, soaking wet and tremendously angry.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:43 pm (EST) on Dec 8, 2009

Hi Victoria:

Hmm let me guess, you liked Dark Places and maybe didn't care for the Haunting? I am very excited about the upcoming challenge, a little more loosely structured for me this time so that I will finish it haha. I am also glad that we are reading so many books together. Have a good week!

posted by jonesli at 6:36 pm (EST) on Dec 7, 2009

Victoria, We could do November since that is when his birthday was. I have lots of other stuff to read between now and then anyway!

Just 3 1/2 more weeks til January!

Jenn

posted by Belladonna1975 at 4:23 pm (EST) on Dec 7, 2009

Works for me!

posted by christina_reads at 1:41 pm (EST) on Dec 7, 2009

We'll find another day that works for both of us! Hooray on getting in to see Gaiman.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:10 pm (EST) on Dec 7, 2009

Victoria - May is fine with me for All Other Nights! As far as I know, you and I are the only people who are planning to read it next year. Do you think I should set up a "group read" thread, or should we just comment on each other's threads when we read the book? I'm ambivalent. :) Let me know!

posted by christina_reads at 10:48 am (EST) on Dec 7, 2009

I hope you're chosen!

Key West is so much fun! And there's that beautiful, long drive through the Keys. And the six toed cats at the Hemingway House.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:00 am (EST) on Dec 7, 2009

January works for me.

posted by Belladonna1975 at 2:36 pm (EST) on Dec 6, 2009

LOL Really? That is hilarious. Well maybe you will get one and I will get the other. We can only hope, right?

posted by Belladonna1975 at 4:59 pm (EST) on Dec 4, 2009

Yes I requested The Sarah Addison Allen and Jane Bites Back by Michael Thomas Ford. I really hope I get the Sarah Addison Allen one!! I am going to buy the HB when it comes out anyway, I just want to be able to read it early!!!

posted by Belladonna1975 at 4:44 pm (EST) on Dec 4, 2009

The selection of ER books seemed substantially better this month. I requested six titles, and put ten on my BM wishlist. Have you requested your two? The Austen title looks interesting.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:28 pm (EST) on Dec 4, 2009

The early reviewer books are up, with two designed with you in mind. You are bound to get one of them!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:07 pm (EST) on Dec 4, 2009

I'm a universal donor, but I lived in Europe long enough to render my blood unsuitable for Americans. It might turn them into cheese eating surrender monkeys and that would be a fate much worse than death. Dirk is incandescent with rage about it, but I am secretly pleased as I truly dislike giving blood and am willing to grasp any excuse to get out of my civic duty.

I think that I would rather have summer back than a good snowfall.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:39 pm (EST) on Dec 4, 2009

Percy Jackson certainly has the Harry Potter appeal in terms of youth-targeted urban fantasy, but I think Rick Riordan definitely writes more for boys - high action, silly humor - than J.K Rowling did and he keeps the whole series targeted for younger readers (not as much teen angst as the protagonists age). I think HP is in a class of its own, but Percy Jackson certainly makes for quick fun fantasy.

Spoon River Anthology is a poetry collection - each entry is a mini soliloquy imagined from epitaphs on tombstones. It's pretty popular reading for high school American lit classes. I borrowed it from a friend because back in October I actually went on a road trip to the Spoon River Valley in central Illinois where the inspiration for the book came from! Pretty cool stuff!

lisa :)

posted by elbakerone at 5:10 pm (EST) on Dec 3, 2009

Sure thing. Regarding Megan Abbott, that is.

Off to see if Cleveland Park really is flooded. The dog park is on slightly higher ground, so maybe it's open. Otherwise, maybe the drive will confuse the dogs into thinking they've been.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:13 am (EST) on Dec 3, 2009

I'm glad it went well and that someone got you books. I don't get books anymore (but am expected to give them, which this year I am only doing for the nieces) but my sister-in-law usually gets me a Borders gift card and we all go to the store near my in-laws to use our gift cards a few days after Christmas. I usually avoid bookstores the way an alcoholic avoids cocktail lounges, so I am always astonished at how quickly everyone else is ready to leave.

I've decided to give the nieces a stack of books, but to save the receipts so that we can go exchange the ones they've already read. I want to get them The Witch of Blackbird Pond, my favorite book, and I think Charlotte would like Johnny Tremain, and the older girls, Stargirl and Every Soul a Star.

The chapter on sheild bugs in Magykd was very popular with my two tiny entymologists, although they weren't sure why someone wouldn't want a millipede crawling on them.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:24 am (EST) on Dec 3, 2009

Absolutely! I can't wait!

posted by cmbohn at 3:11 pm (EST) on Dec 2, 2009

I didn't see the movie of Julie and Julia (yet) but the book was pretty good. Let me know if you read it and like it. I'm working my way through the Percy Jackson and The Olympians series right now, they're predictable if you know anything about Greek mythology, but they're pretty fun for a light quick read. Anything you're enjoying at present that you'd recommend?
:)

posted by elbakerone at 11:45 am (EST) on Dec 2, 2009

Love your 1010 ticker! I have to check and see how many books we are reading together. It may be 5. Plus I got a copy of The Three Musketeers for the group read. Have you tagged your books yet?

posted by jonesli at 5:41 am (EST) on Dec 2, 2009

Well, you did something very bad.

My hoarding style is the keep-it-til-I-read-it pack rat. At least I know what to call it. The author of the book on organization likes decorative boxes rather more than the next guy, but I've gotten a few good ideas from the book. I love books on getting organized. It makes me feel like I'm tackling the problem without having to do any actual work.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:22 pm (EST) on Dec 1, 2009

Did you score an ER book this time round? I did, and was sure I wouldn't since I got one last month. A grim, Scandinavian murder. Fun, fun, fun.

I've started asking anybody I find with an interest in them, for more vampiric suggestions.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:59 pm (EST) on Nov 30, 2009

Oh, before I forget...my sister in law loves those sexy vampires with feelings. I plan to get her a few books off of her wishlist (all Sookie Stackhouse and similar) but would like to find her a few books she would never have heard of but are in the same vein (see what I did there?) can you think of any?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:13 pm (EST) on Nov 30, 2009

Um, that's there just because I had to take out my currently reading list and wanted to put something in its place.

How are you doing on this first day after completing NaNo?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:04 pm (EST) on Nov 30, 2009

You finished early, having had guests for Thanksgiving? Amazing! Did you do a little dance?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:19 am (EST) on Nov 30, 2009

Hi there:

Just popping in to say hello, hope you had a good Thanksgiving. Mine was nice but I thought that washing the dishes would never end:) Now for the leftovers which are always good. I've been happily collecting books for next year's challenge and watching too many cooking shows. The Barefoot Contessa has become my new favorite. How was your NaNo?

Enjoy the rest of the weekend.

posted by jonesli at 3:48 pm (EST) on Nov 27, 2009

It's black leather, so it looks fine, I'm just a little worried about the aroma rising from it at inopportune moments (in church, at the parent/teacher conference...). They were old and mostly used for visits to the dog park, so in the garbage they go.

I saw that you're ahead of the NaNo game! Tremendous!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:12 pm (EST) on Nov 24, 2009

We are eating dinner at my parents. I'm responsible for one pie, rolls and the wine. One's taken care of so far (yep, the one that only required a quick trip to Total Wine, where I managed to break a bottle of very red wine over my left shoe).

Good luck with your guests! I think you should relax and have fun and then they will too. Modo suggests a riesling or a pinot noir, or a sparkling wine if you want them very jolly. Or egg nog. Everyone loves egg nog.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:22 pm (EST) on Nov 24, 2009

Are you all set for your Swedish guests? Have you picked up your Turdurken? How are Lis and Sam and Jack doing?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:00 pm (EST) on Nov 24, 2009

Nope. We are saving the 1010 for January. It's not that far off. Occupy yourself with putting books into categories and reading a book or two that does not fit in anywhere.

Reading while writing is difficult. If the book is too good, it makes one think that there's no point if it's not perfect, and if the book isn't great, one can see all the seams and cracks.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:55 pm (EST) on Nov 21, 2009

Hi, I'm slowly returning to the land of the living, just without a voice. I sound, according to my mother, exactly like my aunt Ruth, who is pushing eighty and has been a pack a day smoker for more than 6 decades. I feel fine, except for the voice and being very, very tired. I am going back to NaNo, but am planning to not start until Wednesday at the earliest.

How are you doing with it? I want updates in the plot!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:26 pm (EST) on Nov 16, 2009

Just stopping by to let you know that I received my copy of The Neverending Story yesterday. It looks like a good one! :) So I will be ready to read it whenever next year. Have a great day!
--BJ

posted by billiejean at 9:46 am (EST) on Nov 13, 2009

Well, it looks like I need to prepare a little better for NaNoWriMo, so maybe next year will be the year for me.

posted by cmbohn at 5:09 pm (EST) on Nov 12, 2009

How long would you like to write? Maybe 12:30 to 1:30 and then a few shorter bursts once I get the kids home from school. Today I'm roped into helping with the school book fair (I need to get going!) and then taking pictures of kids in the classroom for the yearbook.

See you at 12:30?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:55 am (EST) on Nov 10, 2009

You are more than welcome! Have a great weekend yourself! :D

posted by Macophile at 6:16 am (EST) on Nov 6, 2009

I'm not sure, probably white. It's a full size van, not a mini-van, though. I'm going to try getting up early tomorrow. That is my most alert time, and if I can get a good start then maybe I can use a little of the morning too.

Good luck tonight. Be kind to Jack, and give Sam a big sexy scene with a blowsy blonde he meets in the dean's office.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 7:59 pm (EST) on Nov 4, 2009

Oh, it's a book I mooched. Never mooched one and had it shipped new from Amazon before. The sender has sent out lots of copies of the book-so either he's some huge fan with an enormous bank account or the author operating under an assumed name.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:15 pm (EST) on Nov 3, 2009

Huh. I got a ups delivery tonight of an amazon box with the book "Fresh Kills" inside. I thought it was my ER book, but upon going over there to check it as received, I see that it's not my Early Reviewer book. It's not an ER book at all. Curiouser and curiouser. It looks interesting though, I'm just surprised to get a book with no warning. Does this ever happen to you?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:09 pm (EST) on Nov 3, 2009

If there is any sort of delay, I'll give you a call at work.

I'm thinking about getting up a few hours earlier in the morning, since that seems to be my best time. I'll let you know how that's going tomorrow.

Will Modo be joining us?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:37 pm (EST) on Nov 3, 2009

Lunch would be great. It only takes a few minutes for them to tap on my titanium stump and determine that it's not going to fall out, but I'll give you a call as soon as they're done.

What I hadn't realized was how long 50,000 words it when printed out. As soon as I get back from the dog park and the post office, I am getting to work. I have made a rough outline of scenes I want in each "chapter" and this should keep things moving.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:57 am (EST) on Nov 2, 2009

So, Wednesday. Would it be easier to meet in the morning or for lunch? Your choice, my appointment is at 11:30 so 9:30 or noon does equally well. I hope you're plowing ahead with NaNo...I finally read last year's effort and I like it. Plowing ahead with version 2.0.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:40 am (EST) on Nov 2, 2009

No, the ARC is a trade paperback. It's the size of the hardcover, but isn't.

I got Mark Mills' book, The Information Officer. It will be a surprise!

Atlanta Bread Company it is!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:53 am (EST) on Oct 30, 2009

Did you get a no, or have they just not gotten around to informing the V's yet?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:54 am (EST) on Oct 30, 2009

How is your gold tooth? Have you noticed D hiding a pair of pliers under the mattress? If the price of gold goes past a thousand, you might want to sleep lightly.

I got an ER book! It's been a few months, so I am very excited.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:25 am (EST) on Oct 30, 2009

Tell Modo he needs to rest up for Nov. No, just a pedestrian brown bunny with markings to match her own rabbit. Have an enormously fun time at the Mellow Mushroom!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:17 pm (EST) on Oct 29, 2009

Still in plenty of time for NaNo. I've actually made three meals and frozen them in preparation. I feel very organized, even though I know that I will have used them all up in the first week. I still have to clear out the study. After the cake and the robe, of course.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 2:03 pm (EST) on Oct 29, 2009

Guess what? Hermione costumes are available, as long as you are willing to let your child dress as stripper-Hermione. I am not making this up. So the robe sewing will begin immediately after the baking of the rabbit shaped cake.

Is your bathroom done?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:53 pm (EST) on Oct 29, 2009

It sounds like your sewing machine needs the tension adjusted, but if you don't like sewing, I would just leave it be.

My dog was just given a flu shot! I'm pretty sure this was unnecessary and somewhat silly. Oh well. Guess I should get mine though. I hate shots and am not convinced that having the actual flu would not be preferable.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:29 pm (EST) on Oct 28, 2009

I won't be able to make the Nano blast off. Charlotte's birthday party is that same evening. I will be at Frankie's Fun Park keeping an eye on a half dozen over-excited nine year old girls.

I can sew and robes are not that challenging. I hope to make the pattern and get things cut out tonight, while you are painting things in road runner.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:57 am (EST) on Oct 28, 2009

Lol, 115 is not paltry! I have to tell you I started reading the second book in the Three Pines series, Dead Cold. Don't ask me why, it was staring at me in the mountain of books. I guess my curiosity was killing me to see if this one was excruciating also. One hundred pages or so in and it's pretty good.

posted by jonesli at 8:24 pm (EST) on Oct 27, 2009

What color paint did you get? I discovered that Hogwarts outfits are impossible to find. I am resigned to making a set of robes by Saturday.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 7:58 pm (EST) on Oct 27, 2009

Of course I entered my books immediately. I got home to find an empty house and used the unexpected quiet to do something enjoyable.

Have you conquered the bathroom lighting yet?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:54 pm (EST) on Oct 25, 2009

Regarding Serenade:

Sound good. I love that we will be reading many books together next year. What other goodies did you get at the book sale?

posted by jonesli at 12:37 pm (EST) on Oct 25, 2009

OMG!

You are going to love that anthology! I still have Serenade to read for my Noir next year.

posted by jonesli at 8:15 pm (EST) on Oct 24, 2009

Hey Victoria:

I finally managed to finish Still Life and am happily going to take it back to the library next week. Fortunately or unfortunately, I haven't decided yet, I grabbed the next two in the series when I was at the library book sale a couple of weeks ago. We'll see if I drift off while reading Dead Cold.

posted by jonesli at 7:58 pm (EST) on Oct 24, 2009

I'm thinking about writing a book, and since NaNoWriMo is next month, I thought that would be a great time to start. But I'm a little nervous! I know you are a writer. Any tips? My books is not going to be a novel, more like a book of essays.

posted by cmbohn at 2:14 pm (EST) on Oct 22, 2009

Went by the library to return some books and refrained from checking out any for me. I also looked at the living room shelves to see how much room there is for new arrivals (answer: none), so I am ready for Saturday!

I had to wait a few days to write a review for the Last Bridge. Most of the book was amazing and draining, but the ending felt too quick and false. From permanently messed up to a happy member of a family in less than ten pages? And what's with the first Jared giving up the farm just like that? He was not portrayed as someone who would give anything up, ever. He made his ex-wife live in his basement, for pete's sake; would he really just give a farm away? So I have issues with the ending. The rest was amazing.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:41 pm (EST) on Oct 22, 2009

Argh...gym going.

Less than a week! I looked over my wishlist today and will again before Saturday. I just started The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down and it's very intriguing. I need to read more non-fiction.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 7:31 pm (EST) on Oct 18, 2009

Our kitten can climb a ladder. Have you ever heard of a cat using a ladder? I can't blame this one on the dogs. Meatloaf still falls down the stairs now and then.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:02 pm (EST) on Oct 18, 2009

Oh, and no, I do not think I can do another Louise Penney cozy. I don't think I'll be able to finish the first one.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:46 am (EST) on Oct 18, 2009

Cover art! You did have a great cover last year.

I did like the Wall, although the main character was a tool. It felt good to add a book to the alphabetical challenge!

Too much to do, but what better for a cold weekend than a book? It turned cold too quickly. Last weekend I stood watching the Saturday soccer games and thinking that it was so lovely to have such perfect weather, and yesterday it was simply a matter of endurance.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:45 am (EST) on Oct 18, 2009

I would love to read the first book first. I'll let you know when I'm ready. I am happy I read the Carol O'Connell book, all evidence to the contrary. Thanks!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:06 pm (EST) on Oct 16, 2009

Hey Victoria:

Although I am finding it difficult to finish Still Life, I went ahead and got the next one Dead Cold. Brutal Telling still sounds great, so hopefully the next books in the series are better.

posted by jonesli at 6:11 pm (EST) on Oct 15, 2009

Well, now I know. Still, I'll have it on hand in case I feel like giving the genre another shot.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:55 pm (EST) on Oct 15, 2009

Well, I liked Bone by Bone more than I thought I would, but not a lot. I'm taking a break from Still Life with another Canadian mystery, but this one features a serial killer and a real sense of menace. Also, a writing group. So I'm happy.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:39 am (EST) on Oct 15, 2009

I had to take the dogs to the dog park this morning. No one else there so it was quick! The kitten was left out in the rain (why was she outside?) and I was yelled at for some time.

I'll enjoy the rain in a few hours when we are all warm and dry inside.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:33 pm (EST) on Oct 14, 2009

Still Life is going really really slowly.... I can't put my finger on it but I find my mind wandering while reading. I guess it's good but not great? I'm having a hard time with it. Oh, and all of a sudden my library doesn't have Brutal Telling any more. I think they may have sold some books back due to budget cuts, b/c it was there when you first told me about it!

posted by jonesli at 5:02 pm (EST) on Oct 13, 2009

Well, Max made it down to the downtown festivities. He thought the bouncy slide was very good. What did you think of it?

We will definitely have to go next year.

What time are we meeting on Tues? Don't forget the bunny.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:04 pm (EST) on Oct 10, 2009

Hi:

I'm popping in to tell you that the library has Still Life for me, I am going to pick it up tomorrow. I see Kay is getting hers too.

posted by jonesli at 4:23 pm (EST) on Oct 9, 2009

The library has a copy of Still Life waiting for me.

Have a fun weekend and enjoy the Fall for Greenville festivities. Tell me about it--we've never managed to get there.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:12 pm (EST) on Oct 9, 2009

hi victoria,
I'm getting further and further behind my reviews now, going to have to devote some time to getting back up to speed but I have been meaning to write you and say thanks for pointing out the 'second generation' to me. I was a great fan of the original series of books (even got through most of the very 'hit and miss' sequels that came out after it), and I enjoyed it, I thought it was a great idea to re-visit the story and bring some of the characters up to date (didn't quite agree with all of the changes, I wasn't too keen on what they did to Mike) but I liked the new story. It's made me want to re-read the original series again now which can't be a bad thing! :)

posted by yosarian at 10:18 am (EST) on Oct 9, 2009

Hi Victoria:

I woould say that the Ross MacDonald that I read The Moving Target was good, not great but I definitely want to read more of the Lew Archer series. I am going to see what I can get a hold of for my Noir category.

Oh and yes to The Killer Inside Me definitely!

posted by jonesli at 4:30 pm (EST) on Oct 8, 2009

Hey:

You're a mind reader, how did you know that I am seriously considering The Killer Inside Me for my Noir category for next year? Are you about to read it soon or is it for next year?

posted by jonesli at 8:52 pm (EST) on Oct 7, 2009

You're making me feel like a slug, here! I did go for a long walk this morning, but the dogs insisted. I'm not sure it counts when nagging is involved.

I'm glad things are alright, dentally-speaking. See you next week, anyway? We should choose Starbucks, I think. No biscotti for you!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:03 pm (EST) on Oct 7, 2009

How are you? Have you recovered from your own personal dental nightmare?

I've sent both kids back to school and now need to catch up on everything that was ignored in favor of entertaining the ill.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:34 am (EST) on Oct 7, 2009

Hi Victoria!
It's been a while since I've had any quality LT time so I wanted to pop in and say hi! I'm so impressed that you've finished your 999 and are starting a second! I'm going to be hard pressed to finish my first one - my "classics" category has me really bogged down. There's been good books, they just take me a long time to get through. Hope you're doing well and enjoying NaNo Prep Time - I really need to start getting my thoughts together, I told myself last year that if I was writing again I *really* need a good outline.
lisa :)

p.s. Thanks for the b-day wishes too!

posted by elbakerone at 1:17 pm (EST) on Oct 6, 2009

Yay for novacaine. Imagine, for a moment, the world before its discovery. Also, don't bite your cheek! Did the dentist give you a lidocaine lollipop? They gave one to Max when he had a filling done and he was so numb, it kept falling out of his mouth.

Baby yourself today! If that 1/2 pint of Ben and Jerrys doesn't have nuts, I suggest it as the ideal relief for your poor mouth. Not suggested: nachos.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:55 pm (EST) on Oct 6, 2009

Oh, Victoria, I'm sorry! I hope your dentist is kind. There's nothing like a broken tooth to make you feel altogether vincible.

I was at Barnes and Noble today an narrowly avoided buying a copy of Still Life. In fact, I bought nothing for myself--just a copy of the fourth Harry Potter for Charlotte and books for a late birthday present.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:17 am (EST) on Oct 6, 2009

Hi VictoriaPL, Just dropped by to say hello. I am visiting all the folks on the site for NaNoWriMo.We have a lot of books in common and most of them I have read. I can't wait to get started writing. See you soon. Mary Beth

posted by mmignano11 at 9:13 pm (EST) on Oct 5, 2009

Hi I noticed that you have Still Life.

As if I didn't have enough to read I put in a request for it the other day at the library. She must be good, all of the copies of all of her books here are out.

I think by the time we get around to The Brutal Telling, it should be easier for me to get a hold of.

posted by jonesli at 4:50 pm (EST) on Oct 5, 2009

I need to get that one out of the library. We are battling flu here, maybe even the dreaded swine variety, although it's pretty mild, actually, but no one can go back to school until they've been entirely healthy for an extended period of time. Much boredom.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:44 pm (EST) on Oct 5, 2009

Hiya VictoriaPL,
You are a star. Thank you for all your help, and I will follow your instructions forthwith (does that make me sound like a legal secretary?!).
Thanks again,
Lizzie

posted by lizziemc at 7:15 am (EST) on Oct 4, 2009

Yes, I am feeling very proud of myself. I'll now have to decide whether to hang around the 999 officially or not.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:55 am (EST) on Oct 2, 2009

I am enjoying Bone by Bone, although I am not very far along because I finished my final 999 book, Bird by Bird, this morning! Off to crow...

posted by RidgewayGirl at 7:53 am (EST) on Oct 2, 2009

Oh, nice work! keep the Fleming comin'! Have you read them all? I've only gotten up to Goldfinga, but enjoyable stuff, really.

(And is it just me or did you expand that one [Live and Let Die] a tiny bit?)

posted by RSHabroptilus at 12:54 am (EST) on Oct 1, 2009

I'm almost finished Bird by Bird and it's really good, but I think that I really don't want to be done with the 999. I've read a few books in the meantime. I will finish it this week! Tonight maybe even!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:50 pm (EST) on Sep 30, 2009

How did the family do go? Max had his practice and game canceled and went into a spiral of despair. I had to promise to bake cookies for him. Charlotte played in the drizzle and had fun.

I've put The Crime Writer on my wishlist. Would you let me let my brother read Stray Dogs before I get it back to you? He's careful with books and I think he'd love it. Still haven't finished Bird by Bird.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:31 pm (EST) on Sep 28, 2009

Hiya VictoriaPL,
I have just joined librarything, don't know what I am doing, but got a recommendation from you,(long before I joined), for 'The Orchid Thief'. Recommended by a book inmy library 'Midnight in the gaarden of good and evil' - great book. I've seen the movie but, if I ever get the wherewithal, will buy and read the book.
Thanks for the pre-known suggestion!
Lizzie

posted by lizziemc at 5:50 am (EST) on Sep 28, 2009

Good luck with that. It would be rude to bring a book, wouldn't it? I used to envy the smokers at certain gatherings--they had an excuse to huddle outside periodically.

If its raining the games will be canceled again and more make-up games will have to be scheduled. But we have plans to brunch at Dennys (yuck, but better than any alternatives the kids might chose) with my parents and rent the second Harry Potter movie for the afternoon now that Charlotte's finished it. Max is more concerned that popcorn and root beer be served. So unless it rains Sunday, too, we're covered.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:15 pm (EST) on Sep 25, 2009

Bird by Bird is my last book. I took the kids to the library today so that Charlotte could get the third Harry Potter and Max a stack of appropriate books to read to me and checked a small pile of books out. So Bird by Bird may take a few days. It's the kind of book that requires contemplation. I have a book about becoming uber-organized and some non-fiction forensics stuff for "research".

Enjoy the weekend.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:00 pm (EST) on Sep 25, 2009

Sorry for the additional message:

I have read very little young adult fiction, but it's something I am open to if you have suggestions.

You guys are reading Three Musketeers? I was going to try to read the Count of Monte Cristo because it's on the bookshelf, I forget now what category I had planned for it to be in. You know I don't think I have a preference as far as historical fiction goes, I will have to think some more about that.

Keep tossing those good ideas around, I have a library sale in a few weeks so I am going to see what I can find.

Have a good weekend!

posted by jonesli at 6:37 pm (EST) on Sep 25, 2009

Hey there: I thought that I looked up A Brutal Telling, and I did not realize it was a series! After April is good for me. As it gets closer I'll try to time getting it from the library. It's very popular right now so by then I shouldn't have to wait too long for it.

posted by jonesli at 6:30 pm (EST) on Sep 25, 2009

Yes, post it to the 1010 challenge. At worst, it's us and Jonesli and that's fun enough.

I am doing NaNo. Of course I am. It makes me write. And it's fun, except for those days when it's like squeezing blood from eyeballs. So, it's fun now and again.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:59 am (EST) on Sep 25, 2009

Hi:

I took a look at both Brutal Telling and What Angels Fear, I am interested in both. I have never read anything by C.S. Harris, hmm I will have to rectify that.

As for my Where in the World Category: For a definite I have The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (I feel like I will be one of the last to read it lol) and Snow Flower and Secret Fan. So that is Sweden and China. For other countries I was thinking Germany, Russia, Italy, Japan, France, Spain so far. You know I have mystery mania, but historical fiction is another possibility, there doesn't always have to be a dead body in everything I read haha. Now that the libraries are safe for the time being from budget cuts, I can plan a little better.

posted by jonesli at 4:57 pm (EST) on Sep 24, 2009

Yes, we need something to replace our planned tandem read of Evil at Heart!

You know, this John Stewart guy has a real knack for making poor decisions at every opportunity.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:39 pm (EST) on Sep 24, 2009

Ah, but it would have been nice if I had actually finished my challenge! I might need to consult with you re: some recommendations for my Noir and Where in the World categories for next year.

posted by jonesli at 4:22 pm (EST) on Sep 23, 2009

You are also allowed to write the debut review. I've added the rest of John Ridley's books to my wishlist, based on the first few chapters of Stray Dogs. I'll remove them if vampires or anything paranormal shows up, though.

I can't say anything about Bird by Bird yet since I haven't started it (see previous paragraph).

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:54 pm (EST) on Sep 23, 2009

Hooray! The LT page for Stray Dogs says that it takes place in Nevada! Although I was thinking of removing Stargirl from my Arizona listing, on the grounds that I should treat all the States as pits of despair featuring murder and shady dealings. It's only fair. And it's not like AZ is some sort of warm nirvana. There was one hot summer where people were shooting each other on the freeways because they were all so pissed off and ammo was readily available at the Wal-Mart. It only stopped when a pregnant woman was killed for merging with insufficient speed. The next summer, Phoenix featured not one, but two, active serial killers. Really, it's astonishing that more horror fiction does not take place there.

In any case, I initially set out to let you know that no one has yet reviewed Stray Dogs for LT.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:30 pm (EST) on Sep 23, 2009

What color is its spine? You know, you could keep your current system, just get books based primarily on their spine color. It would mean getting the correct edition would be paramount as getting an orange spine when you needed a yellow spine would be a disaster.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:31 am (EST) on Sep 23, 2009

Excellent. I have begun that book, because I am so good with impulse control where books are concerned. The guy's kind of a jerk, so far. I think they filmed the movie U-Turn not that far from Phoenix in a dying town (the copper mine (which was an ugly strip mine thing) had closed a few years previously) that I've visited although I can no longer remember the name.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:15 am (EST) on Sep 23, 2009

variations on the fbomb That reminds me of my parents who have lately read Bastard Out of Carolina and gone to see Inglourious Basterds, both without being able to say the entire name. It's like in A Moveable Feast, where Gertrude Stein tells Hemingway that he must not use profanity or mention taboo behaviors in any of his stories and Hemingway asking what you do if that is how the characters speak? If they are "the only words that can make the story come true and that you must use them"? You still haven't read it yet, have you?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:42 pm (EST) on Sep 22, 2009

Please request the link. I am also willing to change to something else if that is more convenient for people. It's just that the variants of 10 x 10 implies to me that all the participants are aiming to complete the full 100. We have a lot of steppers among us, including me. But I would change my tab if that would be helpful.

posted by NeverStopTrying at 3:17 pm (EST) on Sep 21, 2009

Hi:

I saw that you added In an Lonely Place. Is that for next year? I have it for next year in my Noir or Made into a Movie, I'm not sure yet.

posted by jonesli at 6:37 pm (EST) on Sep 17, 2009

Glee is on Fox, I think. Wednesday nights. It has a kind of John Hughes crossed with Tom Perrotta (did you see Election?) vibe.

I only have a few books to go on my challenge. I keep getting distracted by books that fit the side challenges I've joined. The reread section was hard--I thought it would be the easiest to fill! Oh, well. I'll be done by the end of the month if I manage to get through Possession. It's good, but in that way of being good in which I recognize its quality without being sucked into the story. Doestoevsky was easier.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:18 am (EST) on Sep 17, 2009

Of course I haven't seen Brick. Yesterday I did see part of K-9, remember when Jim Belushi was making movies?

Have you been watching Glee? It's my new favorite show.

Good morning, have a fun day at work, etc...

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:20 am (EST) on Sep 17, 2009

Hi:

I just sent Kay my thoughts on Evil at Heart. Basically, I was expecting Gretchen to make an earlier appearance and Susan's death facts were funny to me for some weird reason. I thought it was good, I gave it 4 stars, but now I think that I did not have the same wow factor that I had with the other two. I have been in a reading frenzy (off challenge of course) our libraries are set to close October 2nd unless the budget impasse is resolved at the last minute and of course I have a ton of books out!

I was toying with reading Casino Royale, did you not like it!

posted by jonesli at 4:45 pm (EST) on Sep 15, 2009

We got to see Henry's house and get a little picture of what he would be like when not constantly surrounded by crazy. I think Claire got short-changed this time, but I was pleased that Susan's mom didn't put in an appearance in this episode.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:17 pm (EST) on Sep 15, 2009

That was a quick read! I'll snag Jonesli and we can start having a mature discussion about a pure escapist read. Ahh, the joys of LT.

So, my favorite detail was the bouncer who was reading a library copy of "The Sheltering Sky". I think the reason that we like this series, as opposed to all the other serial killer series featuring protagonists with a past, is that it reflects our generation's experience of life. None of us are working in jobs that reflect how we see ourselves and we all see how outward appearance often differs from our inner lives. The teachers who don't read much, the sheer number of ordinary people reading presidential biographies, the tattooed guy with four cats and a passion for "American Idol".

Also, what's with the eyeball fixation? For me it would be teeth.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:38 am (EST) on Sep 15, 2009

Hmmm, will ponder rabbit names...

Meanwhile, I have "Evil at Heart" in my hot little hands, and managed to read the first few chapters while waiting to pick the kids up from school. I think I've been to that rest area, or at least one similarly filthy. So my plans for the evening are clear! Are you finished it?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:57 pm (EST) on Sep 14, 2009

I read your review of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, and it's making me want to read it now! I have it in mind for next year for a World Wide category. Still no Evil at Heart?

posted by jonesli at 6:30 pm (EST) on Sep 8, 2009

How was your long weekend? The week now feels way too short, although I am getting quite a pile of appropriate books for my recuperation. Honestly, it's probably a nap followed by a quiet evening and then I'll be fine, but I've made arrangements to baby myself on Saturday as well. I even have a book about Lincoln in case I feel ambitious. Oh, I'm also taping Melrose Place, the remake, in case things are dire.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 5:45 pm (EST) on Sep 8, 2009

You blew through that one! I just got my copy of the german version of The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, the last of the Stieg Larsson books. It weighs in at 875 pages, so I may have to wait until life is a little less busy to dig in.

I'm still waiting for Evil at Heart. Now that would be the perfect recovering from dental surgery book! That, or Garden Spells.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:43 am (EST) on Sep 8, 2009

Hi Victoria:

I really devoured Evil at Heart! I was surprised to get it; the libraries here are in jeopardy, not just cutbacks, but closing all together. I hope you get it soon:) Did you have a good holiday?

posted by jonesli at 7:55 pm (EST) on Sep 7, 2009

Did you snag an ER book this time? I'm holding Daphne for you for the next time we meet since it fits so nicely with your plans for next year. Of course, I loved it, so be warned!

Have you gotten Evil at Heart yet?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:25 am (EST) on Sep 4, 2009

So did you get Evil at Heart yet? Would you believe I picked up four additonal books at the library? I am reading Great Expectations right now. Oh, and I loved, loved Wuthering Heights!

posted by jonesli at 8:12 pm (EST) on Sep 3, 2009

No ER book for me this time. Sob. What will I read?

I'm enjoying "Brooklyn". It reminds me a little of Benjamin Black's mysteries, solely because it's set in 1950's Irish society, which is entertaining to read about, but it must have been suffocating to live in.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:01 pm (EST) on Sep 2, 2009

"She's Come Undone" is wonderful. Which one are you reading? I have "The Hour I First Believed" sitting around on my mammoth TBR.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:42 am (EST) on Sep 2, 2009

I've added it to my wishlist. Jemima J is beginning very well, much better than the other Jane Green novel I'd read. Perfect brain candy, and next I'll tackle something substantial. Time to finish the award winners category!

I had a great time at lunch.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 5:01 pm (EST) on Sep 1, 2009

Congratulations! That is an accomplishment. I noticed that you were on LT at 3 am, so your early conclusion to the 999 is built on sandy eyelids and insomnia. I may be up late finishing the final book in the Garnethill trilogy, but not 'til 3! You have to read the other two books-- there's a new character named Kilty Goldfarb, who's fantastic.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 5:10 pm (EST) on Aug 31, 2009

This crown has been a problem all summer, and has caused me to change dentists because the former one did such a poor job. Now I'm getting an implant, which is where they put a screw into your head (or, in this case, my head) to hold a fake tooth securely. Hence, the future valium ingestion. If the dentist doesn't get me something temporarily functional on Monday (I am hoping it won't take him long) I will let you know.

The sequel to Garnethill is perfect. A missing tooth is nothing compared with what's going on in Maureen's life.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:39 pm (EST) on Aug 28, 2009

Oooh, I haven't read that in ages. Did you see the movie?

I no longer have one of my front teeth. The poor crown gave up the ghost today and now I look like Ma Kettle. I am learning to talk without moving my lips away from my teeth (or lack thereof). I do believe that while Dirk and I will go to a movie as planned this weekend (Inglorious Basterds), I may suggest we just get takeout rather than going out. I see the dentist Monday.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:23 pm (EST) on Aug 28, 2009

Only about a third of the way into Outlander but I'm absolutely loving it! Do you know if the rest of the series is as good as the first? Happy Friday and have a great weekend! :)

posted by elbakerone at 1:17 pm (EST) on Aug 28, 2009

I'm glad BMW could be of service. No, the glass thingy is a museum. There are big buildings behind it. He is familiar with many of the restaurants out that way.

We have a very small kitten. She was found by neighbors in the picnic pavilion and no one wanted to call animal control or take her home. She is in quarantine in our bathroom because she has scabs on her head, which would mean ringworm, except they're healing up and no more are appearing. Enjoy dinner!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:30 pm (EST) on Aug 26, 2009

Thanks for the invite to the 1010 Challenge - I am still thinking about it. It seems so far away & the problem I've had with every other year of the challenge (I'm a dropout from BOTH the 888 and the 999 Challenges!) is that I set my categories, read three books in that category & then my interests veer off on some totally different direction. I am trying to think of categories that are sufficiently broad without being pointless - something other than "books I want to read" and "more books I want to read", because doing that seems counter to the spirit of making categories.

posted by fannyprice at 3:30 pm (EST) on Aug 26, 2009

Tuesday at noon? Dirk loves Sweet Basil, but I've never eaten there. And I like chai.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:08 pm (EST) on Aug 26, 2009

I snagged a free copy of Outlander from the Member's Giveaway program! I've heard nothing but fab things about it so I'm pretty excited about it - I'll let you know when I'm reading it. I'm about a third of the way into Thackery's Vanity Fair right now but I might need a break from it since it's dragging a bit. I see you liked The Schwa was Here - that's another for me to add onto the TBR list!

And since it's almost that time of year... are you possibly going to attempt a third year of NaNoWriMo?

:)

posted by elbakerone at 5:34 pm (EST) on Aug 24, 2009

Seriously, who doesn't want to make boeuf bourgingnon after that movie? I'm waiting for cooler weather. I bet it makes the house smell fantastic as well.

Having a funny mooch. The third Steig Larsson book is out in german and has come up for mooching from someone in France. But she wants to send it only as part of the complete set. I sent her an email in my very best french (hint: not very good) asking if she would send it to me on its own and she has reluctantly agreed. Now I need to answer her, but can also use german, if I want. I feel like I should really have a nap before having to exert myself linguistically twice in one day.

Ok, done. If she could figure out what I wanted from my french, she'll be able to decipher my german.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:44 pm (EST) on Aug 24, 2009

P.S. I was snooping (reading over some of your recent comments) and saw where RidgewayGirl suggested that Viggo Mortensen has serial-killer eyes, so, being struck by that, I went to her site to see what movie you guys were talking about, and I saw your comment to her about "The Moveable Feast." And I say YES, YES, YES! Definitely read it. It's wonderful! I'd never read anything of Hemingway's before that, and fell in love with him because of it. I want to reread it because I'm sure I missed a lot the first time around, but it was just so special. It's non-fiction but that special kind of non-fiction that is just so literary and actually does have some fictional elements. I cried at the end, not a lot, it was just so damn sad without being tragic (or maybe it was the other way round ~ tragic without being sad). Anyway, sorry for sticking my 2 cents in but I just couldn't resist.

posted by Storeetllr at 8:48 pm (EST) on Aug 18, 2009

The previews for the Time Traveler's Wife don't grab me. It may just be Mr. Bana--I can't see the appeal. He's kinda the anti-Lee-ev. We watched Batman Begins last night, just to let you know how far behind the times we are! Anyway, I also don't like Christian Bale. I have an antipathy for the chiseled cheekboone/thin lips types. I kept thinking, "Run, little Katie Holmes, run fast and far," whenever he talked to her. I like that skeevey Cillian Murphy, though. He looks like he spends his time saying witty, but really mean things about everyone he sees.

Have a really happy adoptive birthday. Cheesecake always improves a festive occasion. So, you are 13 in adoptive years -- that may be valuable in your twilight years -- you can just go by your adoptive age.

There are books that if you miss the wave of hype, it's just hard to get excited about. Especially since, once the film's been made, you'll only be able to find copies with the movie cover. Anyway, Life of Pi was a fun surprise, as I was expecting something worthy.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:07 pm (EST) on Aug 17, 2009

First of all, A Moveable Feast is my favorite book. Really, I can narrow it down to one. I'm now reading it for the second time this year (well, the restored edition, which moves the chapters around). He has a lot about writing in it, and pictures of people like the Fitzgeralds and Gertrude Stein. And there's a cat called F. Puss. So I'm not really a good person to ask.

Your novel idea sounds great. I want to read it! I'm dithering between starting my serial killer tome all over again and seeing what happens this time or writing a chick-lit about a girl who inherits something (a bookstore? a house? a junk shop?) in England. Before one begins, the world is alive with possibility and then you are twenty days in and behind on words and you have a Nazi who won't die or a serial killer who wants details on how to kill girls and a very smelly van or a main character who's drifting along aimlessly. But it's still in the hopeful, planning stage.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 5:44 pm (EST) on Aug 13, 2009

You're planning on doing NaNo again this year, aren't you? I thought I wouldn't, but have been playing ideas around in my head. What are you planning?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:30 pm (EST) on Aug 13, 2009

Well, the Julie storyline for us and the Julia one for our moms. It's perfect. Also, Paris is beautifully filmed. Just go to dinner before, rather than after the movie as, unless you pick something posh, you will only be disappointed by whatever you eat. Or go home and cook for yourself.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:43 am (EST) on Aug 13, 2009

Of course we should read Evil at Heart together. I'm wondering if she can top the jellied eye sockets of the last one. My ginormous book for next year looks to be Foucault's Pendulum. Whee! Now to finish this year...

I went to see Julie & Julia with my mom. As it stands, I get to chose the movies because I always just choose the movie that Dirk would like (action! adventure! special effects!) that is the least repulsive to me. And then snag ones I really want when they come up, like Juno. Anyway, Julie & Julia was wonderful and Dirk would have hated it. Meryl Streep was so good that I wanted to laugh joyously through every scene she was in. Fantastic. I haven't read The Time Traveler's Wife yet. I'm behind the hype on that one.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:39 am (EST) on Aug 13, 2009

Victoria,

Cool! I'd definitely be interested in reading those books in tandem. Like you, though, I still have a ways to go in my 999 Challenge...and now I'm in my "work" categories since I've used up all my "fun" ones. Boo.

posted by christina_reads at 9:20 am (EST) on Aug 12, 2009

Hey Victoria:

I just took a look at your categories for the 2010 challenge, I like your theme!At first I didn't see any noir lol! I think I have the Wounded and the Slain (I will check) and my library has one copy of Dark Passage, so I think I will be able to get my hands on it. Oh and I am pretty sure I will read Remains of the Day with you too.

posted by jonesli at 4:23 pm (EST) on Aug 11, 2009

I think a tandem read is a great idea! I'm not in a hurry, so whenever we can work it out.

posted by cmbohn at 2:29 pm (EST) on Aug 11, 2009

I'm so impressed with you guys who already have your categories all mapped out! Keep me in mind with your tandem reads category -- we'll think of something.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:21 am (EST) on Aug 11, 2009

It is the late summer doldrums. It's the last week of summer before school starts again. I'm looking forward to structure and routine and have lists of things to get done. I even think the kids are looking forward to school starting. I'm letting them get a little bored this month.

Things are wilting, but we have home-grown tomatoes! Nothing tastes better.

Books...I keep picking them up and then setting them down again. It seems much to much to start one, but I'm not excited about any that I'm reading, even the ones I should be excited about. Oh, well, a good time to get through some of the books in the categories that remain under-read.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:47 am (EST) on Aug 10, 2009

I finished Dark Places last night and, well, the ending was just blah. Too many murderers and things happening right then. It was so, so good up until the last twenty pages. I hate when that happens. The Angel of Debt, indeed! Off to write a review without mentioning the ending. Argh.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:04 pm (EST) on Aug 8, 2009

well, duh...I really could have just checked to see if you'd read it myself. I probably put it on my wishlist because of your review.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 2:12 pm (EST) on Aug 7, 2009

Hey Victoria:

I picked up Remains of the Day for next year's challenge. I think one of my categories is going to be Prize Winners, but I didn't want to limit myself to just Pulitzers, I think this book won a Booker Award. Yes, absolutely we can do a tandem read of this and probably some from the Noir category that I know we are both going to have :)

posted by jonesli at 4:18 pm (EST) on Aug 6, 2009

I'm glad you liked P&P&Z, although I think it would be a more natural fit for you than me. I loved the discussion questions at the end of the book. I just finished "Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven" and loved it.

Yes, let's meet. But after school starts, when things become more flexible. Yes, I am tired of dragging children along with me. The fun outings are still fun (we all like the pool), but no one enjoys the trips to Bi-Lo, etc... Two weeks to go.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:23 pm (EST) on Aug 5, 2009

How is the week after summer vacation going? I can't believe you're reading a book called Mr. Darcy, Vampyre. Why the y instead of an i? It does imply a fiery end. Did you get an ER book? I was hoping for Evil at Heart, but I'm happy with the one I did get.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 1:09 pm (EST) on Aug 5, 2009

This was my first time reading Secret Garden! I've seen the play and a few movie versions as well as heard the soundtrack to the musical and I'm not sure how I missed the actual book before now. I really liked it and was glad that many of the characters were consistent with the adaptations so I felt like the pictures I had of them were true to the author's original intent. What were your thoughts on Pride and Prejudice and Zombies?

posted by elbakerone at 5:52 pm (EST) on Aug 4, 2009

Oh no!! Not MORE books for the TBR pile!! Sometimes I wonder what I ever did for book recommendations before LT... ;)

I hadn't heard of the Pink Carnation books but of course now I'll have to add them to the never-shrinking mountain of TBR.

Happy Friday! Have a great weekend!

posted by elbakerone at 3:39 pm (EST) on Jul 24, 2009

What are you doing on LT? You should be packing, or at least idly day-dreaming about laying on sand with the sound of the ocean near-by.

We've purchased school supplies! The end is nigh! Max's birthday is coming up and he wants Chuck E. Parental Insanity. I'm off to look into the cost of an inflatable water slide. Just more fun for everyone involved.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:41 pm (EST) on Jul 24, 2009

Mmmm! Spicy hot chocolate - sounds awesome and decadent! Loved your review of the cookbook but my wishlist really didn't need to be any longer!!! :)

posted by elbakerone at 11:37 am (EST) on Jul 21, 2009

When do you leave for the beaches of NC? Have you already left? If so, welcome home! Otherwise, enjoy the packing and procuring of all the things you'll need. Do you have a hat?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:34 am (EST) on Jul 21, 2009

You've blown right ahead of me on the 999. Either your holiday will irrevocably cement your lead, or give me a chance to catch up! Either way, I hope your beach time is as restorative as mine was. Dirk and I had a quickie honeymoon in Vegas since we had to leave for Germany a few days after the wedding. (We had three months of insanity once Dirk was offered the job in Munich - I had three months to arrange a wedding and pack up a house and he had to deal with all the legal and job-related things.) So not as romantic as an NC beach!

Don't forget to pack flip flops and an extra swimsuit! And a few more books than you think you'll need; there's enormous security in an extra book!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:13 am (EST) on Jul 18, 2009

Ha! Yes, I decided to be relentlessly honest and include every single book I hadn't read, including several of Dirk's and a few I suspect I'll never get to. It is supposed to inspire me to mooch less but, since I just requested several books today, is appearing fruitless. I only have one book checked out of the library, though.

I'm reading actual books again! I reread an old favorite, which reminded me that laziness is no excuse for reading bad writing. I'm reading The Angel's Game which is giving me bizarre dreams and causing me to mildly neglect the children. Dinners are very simple and I only cleaned the kitchen floor because it had become sticky due to children serving themselves lemonade.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 6:26 pm (EST) on Jul 15, 2009

I did like The Children of Men. Thanks for pushing it. I am almost finished A Moveable Feast, which is one of my rereads. I've read it at least a dozen times and now there is a new re-edited version out and I have an amazon gift certificate. I thought I could continue with the 999 if I did all the books in my rereads category now. And maybe Hemingway and Orwell will convince me to read a better quality of book. A Moveable Feast, btw, is great inspirational reading for writing, since it's all about his days writing in Paris before he'd finished any books or become famous.

Happy Monday!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:29 am (EST) on Jul 14, 2009

We did! We did! We had so much fun and the kids are exhausted. They'd come home from a day at the beach and jump in the pool. Now I have books to send and reviews to write.

Did you check your ER review status? Was your latest book included?

It's good to be back!

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:57 am (EST) on Jul 11, 2009

Definitely read The Scarlet Pimpernel if you haven't already! It's such a fun story. I'm reading the sequel right now, but I think I like the original even better!

posted by elbakerone at 12:06 pm (EST) on Jul 7, 2009

I was very much fooled by the Julia twist. I knew that Snyde being Keane seemed way too obvious, but my guess was that Snyde was really Meek - who hovered in the background just enough to remain present but unobtrusive. Glad I was wrong though, because Harris's ending was much more satisfactory. I agree with what you said about how letting Straitley live seemed rather out of character, but in a way that part reminded me a little of Zozie from GWNS: the idea that the villain wants to be recognized and perhaps lauded for her cleverness in a moment of triumph over those whose lives she ruined. It's hard to compare this with Chocolat/GWNS (the only other Harris books I've read) since it seemed so set apart being a mystery novel. I'll have to read some other Harris stuff and let you know what I like best. ;)

posted by elbakerone at 1:36 pm (EST) on Jun 30, 2009

I can't believe you haven't read any of the Krakauer books! His other two, Into the Wild and Eiger Dreams are also very good. I'll add the Jeff Long books to my wishlist when BookMooch returns. I just got a beautiful hardcover of the German version of Inkheart, so BookMooch can do no wrong (a new member sent me that and a hardcover of The Historian, to replace my battered paperback).

We're off to Florida on the second half of our budget summer vacation on Friday after Max gets out of Zoo Camp; we'll be staying with friends who live in Florida. They have a pool in their screened porch. The kids consider it Nirvana.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:10 am (EST) on Jun 30, 2009

You gave a Greg Iles novel only 2 stars? Does that mean you agree with me when I put him in the "mystery writers who have lost it" category?

So I hear that there is a conversation going on about next year's categorical challenge. Is it somewhere specific, or are we just tossing ideas around? For the record, I like yours -- a 10-10-10 challenge might be too off-putting! I caught myself thinking about possible new categories a few days ago, even as I rearrange things to make books fit as I'm off reading anything that catches my eye again, despite the tidy lists. I just got "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" at the library (it took only a few days to get -- I was expecting to wait weeks. The librarians were all interested and want to know what I think as soon as I'm done.) and I've found a hot weather read in "No Shortcuts to the Top" about Everest, etc...

I'm back from a week on Lake Murray, in which only one snake was spotted. Hope you're enjoying the summer, with the corresponding iced tea, enforced laziness and sprinklers, and despite the Governatorial hijinks.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 5:21 pm (EST) on Jun 28, 2009

Just finished G&P. I had some guesses and I was totally wrong - love it when an author surprises me! I did see a lot of parallels to Girl with No Shadow and the wind made me think of Vianne Rocher too. Let me know when you finish!

posted by elbakerone at 2:30 pm (EST) on Jun 26, 2009

I haven't read Blackberry Wine but I almost picked it up last time I was at the library! I won't say too much not knowing how far you are into the book, but I have a theory about Snyde/Pinchbeck... I love trying to guess the endings of mystery novels, but sometimes my ideas are way off so then it's a debate as to whether I like my ending or the author's better. ;)

posted by elbakerone at 5:51 pm (EST) on Jun 25, 2009

You lost power? We just had a bunch of lightening and thunder, but off in the distance (over by Fountain Inn, I guess). What adventure. Meatloaf has taken up permanent residence in the closet.

We let the kids stay up late Tuesday night to chase lightning bugs.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:29 am (EST) on Jun 18, 2009

I'll just read something Canadian. I'm reading "Heart Shaped Box" and I'm enjoying it. I'm glad you've enjoyed your last few books.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 2:49 pm (EST) on Jun 17, 2009

Okay, now I know what is meant when people complain about the humidity in the South. We have the AC on, not because it is hot out, but because it is so exceedingly damp. The dogs will not move. Time for a book set up north, or during a snowstorm, preferably involving frostbite.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 6:07 pm (EST) on Jun 16, 2009

Welcome home! You have plenty of time to finish the 999, don't worry. We are busy with our summer vacation, and it's fun so far to be able to hang out with the kids without the rush of going places. This joy may diminish over time, however, as I'm not getting anything done.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:56 am (EST) on Jun 10, 2009

I got an email from the owner of the Killing Tree -- she'd been awol because her husband had had a heart attack. So she's back and sending books just fine, you'll have no problem getting it.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:10 am (EST) on Jun 2, 2009

I've tested the "will you like it?" feature, and it appears to work, after a fashion. I tried it on a few books I've been eying and it came back, each time, with the cursor far to the right of the "will love" line. So I tested it with a book actually called "The Sheik and the Virgin Secretary" (I swear I am not making it up, you can see for yourself) and it came back firmly to the left of "won't like", which I agree with, although I have never read the book in question.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 9:54 am (EST) on Jun 2, 2009

Oh, Victoria, The Likeness was sooo good. Sam was just great (although the name choice was unfortunate -- I kept picturing good old Sam Gamgee) and the story was really well told.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:43 pm (EST) on Jun 1, 2009

How was your Graveyard Walk? Tell me about it! For awhile, when we lived in a small city (about Greenville sized) in Southern Ontario, we would drive along old country roads and explore church graveyards. Is that what you're doing? Did you see any snakes?

The Likeness is fabulous so far. I think you'd probably like it, but I'll let you know when I've finished whether or not she leaves anything hanging. Sam is fantastic in this--I can hear his accent when he talks.

Angels and Demons was entertaining enough. The plot frequently strained credibility (blowing it to pieces now and then) but Rome sure is pretty and I got a kick out of the "hey, I've been there!" moments. Ewan MacGregor's hair did not move, including when he was being blown backwards by explosions, etc...

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:47 am (EST) on May 31, 2009

Hi Victoria:

The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart sounds great. I will have to look it up at the library. Thanks!

posted by jonesli at 6:26 pm (EST) on May 30, 2009

Are you excited that ABC's doing a remake of the series "V"? Any tips on how to keep this knowledge from Dirk without actually lying, or should I just suck it up and count it as an hour more reading time once a week?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:38 am (EST) on May 23, 2009

Keep it! Keep it! Books that put one to sleep are like gold. Usually they end up being interesting after a certain point or so flawed that I'm frustrated instead of sleepy. I have one history book, but it's an enormous hardcover and is dangerous to fall asleep under. I'm a third of the way through the German version of The Girl who Played with Fire. I'm reading late into the night, each night, until I can't even focus any more and then have read only a handful of pages.

The weather is perfect! Our garden is growing, and I've almost finished filling all the various pots on the deck. I love the time of the year where it's warm, but not so hot I have to close the windows and turn on the AC.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:29 am (EST) on May 21, 2009

The soccer fields were soaked! Charlotte was entirely covered, as goal keeper she has to dive for balls and the mud was a great incentive. But Friday was fantastic. After Charlotte's piano recital finished we went downtown for ice cream and since the GreekFest was going on the place was full of people and we listened to a dixieland brass band. Greenville's a fun place to live. Of course, the children are wiped out and cranky after getting to stay up several hours past their bedtimes and the rain is not helping with that! Sorry you got rained out, but think of how beautiful everything will look after the rain. And I'm not sorry it will be cool for a few days. We haven't had to turn on our AC yet and I'm eager to keep it off.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 10:40 am (EST) on May 17, 2009

Oh, let's meet up and drink something cold. Give me a little time to finish The Lace Reader though.

Enjoy hiking, although I more readily imagine duelling banjos, but if you can get D to jump off of a waterfall in a loincloth, and you get a picture, I will change the soundtrack in my mind. Enjoy. Our weekend is a whirlwind of piano recitals, soccer games and zoo events.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:34 pm (EST) on May 15, 2009

Oh, isn't this weather glorious? I made a huge bouquet of the peonies and shrub roses in the yard and we ate outside. My allergies are beside themselves with joy, but it is so worth it for this weather!

I read a couple of the stories in Fragile Things and then returned it to the library. It was okay, but I have a limited interest for what is essentially fanfic; an erotic encounter involving Mulder and Scully would not have been out of place.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 8:15 pm (EST) on May 13, 2009

P&P&Z is a wishlist one for me. I wanted to get it from my library but it's still on order and already has 30 holds for 2 copies. It might be one I have to splurge on if I get a discount coupon to Borders or B&N. Lots of people have told me it's pretty funny though. I love Austen and I'm always amused by parodies so it looks to be right up my alley! I'll be keeping an eye out for The Last Bridge this summer too. It looks like lots of people really enjoyed that one. I also noticed we were in accord on Fragile Things - I had high hopes for that one and it was quite the let down. Nice job on your challenge thus far - you're really on a roll! Have a great week!

posted by elbakerone at 10:57 am (EST) on May 13, 2009

Is it a sequel? I really liked "In the Woods" (predictably) and plan to go by the library to request her other book, although I didn't know it was the sequel. I was terribly sad that their friendship didn't survive, but he was kind of a dick.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 12:22 pm (EST) on May 12, 2009

I heard that recently, too. Probably the same npr segment. Sounds weird to me, can we continue to call him Leeeve?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 5:21 pm (EST) on May 8, 2009

Enjoy your evening out. I have a DVD of Dexter rented, so we are set for fun, too. I'm avoiding the Star Trek movie, but may go see the Wolverine one, despite having both Hugh Jackman and really bad hair as Liev is a bad guy.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:49 pm (EST) on May 8, 2009

In "Heat" the author buys an entire hog and butchers it in his tiny New York apartment. His wife either loves him very much or has a friend with a sofabed nearby.

Turtles are a protected species, much to the dismay of all (but probably mostly the turtle's) so I returned him to the pond as my daughter wept bitter tears.

My greyhound does not like the deluges we've been having. He's the mellowest dog imaginable, so Meatloaf in a panic consists of him standing very close to me, rolling his eyes and panting, unless he's hiding in the closet.

Pasta with spring vegetables (and broccoli, because we have some) tonight. I'm reading Kitchen Confidential and feel a need to raise the level a bit. Or at least garnish something.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 3:22 pm (EST) on May 8, 2009

Turkey. Max wants to go to Iran ever since a BookMoocher sent me a stack of postcards. I guess one is as likely as the other!

White. It's shady and I want to fill it with plants. I want to paint the ceiling indigo and hang a bunch of tiny white lights and I'm just going to paint the floor in something hard wearing, maybe gray? You would not believe how hideous it is right now, with the mint green wall, olive ceiling and hunter green trim. What goes with rabbit?

posted by RidgewayGirl at 4:37 pm (EST) on May 7, 2009

Oh, that's so hard. You'll know, though, when it's time to take him in. He's had a long life, full of love, remember that.

Something light and cheering is certainly in order. Also, chocolate.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 11:48 am (EST) on May 4, 2009

That was fantastic! I can't believe we were there for four hours! I've entered them all into my library and now plan to find new and innovative ways of fitting them on my shelves.

posted by RidgewayGirl at 7:42 pm (EST) on Apr 25, 2009