Life is Short. Read Fast.

January 2012 Reading Wrap-Up

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

I read 10 books this month, which is lower than I expected to read. That said January was a weird month. We’ve been dealing with major work on our house, and paperwork, research, and conversations about a few major life changes that might be coming up this year for us. With all of this I didn’t do as much reading primarily because my head just wasn’t in the right frame. I couldn’t focus on the words on the page for all the thoughts running in my head. February might be somewhat similar in this aspect, but I think a few things have been settled within our house, so I think it should be at least a little better.

In light of some of these potential life changes, and the work we have had done on the house, we are on a major spending freeze right now. This will probably continue for the next few months as well. I struggled with the whole not buying books thing a lot at first, but now I have decided to turn this into a challenge of sorts.

I want to drastically cut my “owned, but not read” stash on our shelves. I know I will buy some new books (like if B&N has another bargain book sale and my Presidential Challenge books) as the year progresses but I hope to keep it to a smaller amount than last year. I won’t tell you the dollar amount we spent in books last year. I use Quicken…so I could pull up this figure real quick…but I don’t think any good could come from it so I’ll just skip it.

I’m taking a lesson from the amazing Jacki at Lovely Little Shelf and will share photos of my (hopefully) shrinking stash. She does hers monthly, but I have so many I’m not sure you would really notice the change so I’m going to share new photos every quarter for now. I will use this post (from the first of the year) as my starting line.

By my rough count there are 150 books that are mine (both Brett and I's to-read stash is stored together) - I really hope to make a big dent in the stash this year! You can see on this photo (click to enlarge) where the TBR starts and ends...it's a lot, huh?

Here are the books that I read in January:

Dear Bully by Megan Kelley Hall
Blank Slate Kate by Heather Wardell
The Distant Hours by Kate Morton
Matched by Ally Condie
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
The Last Founding Father by Harlow Giles Unger
Madame Bovary's Daughter by Linda Urbach
Faith by Jennifer Haigh
Cinderella Ate My Daughter by Peggy Orenstein
Vision in White by Nora Roberts

One of the pieces of data I am collecting this year that I haven’t before is my page count. I’m going to share this data one my monthly wrap-up posts this year so I can see how each month is different. I’m such a sucker for formulas and data analysis!

Total pages read: 3,477
Average: 347.7
Shortest: 192
Longest: 560

Review: Dear Bully: Seventy Authors Tell Their Stories

2012-02-01T07:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: September 1, 2011
Format: Paperback
Pages: 352
Source: Borrowed from Julie at Book Hooked

From Goodreads: You are not alone

Discover how Lauren Kate transformed the feeling of that one mean girl getting under her skin into her first novel, how Lauren Oliver learned to celebrate ambiguity in her classmates and in herself, and how R.L. Stine turned being the “funny guy” into the best defense against the bullies in his class.

Today’s top authors for teens come together to share their stories about bullying—as silent observers on the sidelines of high school, as victims, and as perpetrators—in a collection at turns moving and self-effacing, but always deeply personal.

My review: This is a very hard book for me to review, in part because the Mama Wolf comes out in me thinking of my daughter being bullied at some point in her future. Sammie already has glasses, has a life threatening peanut allergy, and has one scar (will be more in the future) above her right eye from her droopy eye-lid repair. She is a walking billboard for a child to make fun of and pick on. Which, breaks my heart…but also lights a fire under us to start building her self-worth and self-esteem now. We want her to know that she is smart, beautiful, intelligent, and worthy of respect. Of course, much of that is hard to express to a toddler, but we try every day.

Guys, this book tore me into pieces. I wanted to cry, but I didn’t cry very much because I was seeing red in my eyes. I was irate for these authors as children. I realize that today things are different – better in some aspects but worse in others. If I ever hear of a teacher in this day-and-age telling a child to suck it up instead of reporting obvious bullying I will not rest until that teacher has gone before their school board to be held accountable. The whole cyber-bullying thing freaks me out – like makes me sick to my stomach freaks me out.

Anyway, enough about me – everyone should read this book. In fact, this should be required reading for all parents. Really – read this!

Tot Tuesday: Alphabetical Sleepy Sheep by Rory K. Zuckerman

2012-01-31T08:18:00.000-06:00

Alphabetical Sleepy Sheep by Rory K. Zuckerman, Maryn Roos (Illustrator) - This book is an absolute riot - for both the kid and the adult reading it! The illustrations are vivid and rich in color, and the text is a rolling tongue twister through the alphabet. Sammie would request us to read the "sheep book" at least once a day. She would attempt to read along with us, pointing out the things she recognized and asking questions (what's that? Why?) when she saw something she didn't know.

I highly recommend this book - especially for preschoolers learning the alphabet. It is one of those books that can last until school-age due to the tongue twisting letter/word combinations.

Review: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Publisher:Dutton Juvenile

Release Date: January 10, 2012

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 313

Source: Won from Tameka

From Goodreads: Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 12, Hazel was prepared to die until, at 14, a medical miracle shrunk the tumours in her lungs... for now.

Two years post-miracle, sixteen-year-old Hazel is post-everything else, too; post-high school, post-friends and post-normalcy. And even though she could live for a long time (whatever that means), Hazel lives tethered to an oxygen tank, the tumours tenuously kept at bay with a constant chemical assault.

Enter Augustus Waters. A match made at cancer kid support group, Augustus is gorgeous, in remission, and shockingly to her, interested in Hazel. Being with Augustus is both an unexpected destination and a long-needed journey, pushing Hazel to re-examine how sickness and health, life and death, will define her and the legacy that everyone leaves behind.

My review: At one glance this book seems like another book about kids with cancer. I read every one of Lurlene McDaniel’s books in high school - my 2nd favorite book ever is Don’t Die My Love in fact – but this book is SO much more than kids with cancer. It almost becomes this tiny little piece of the whole plot – really, I promise it does. If the whole kids with cancer and/or dying aspect has you leaning towards not reading this you need to get over that issue right now. You will be missing out on a book that will change your heart.

I devoured this book – two sittings ending up with a late night last page turn. I really didn’t have words through much of my reading to explain my feelings and emotions – it was that powerful. I was left without the power to speak coherent sentences. Heck, I couldn’t even form coherent thoughts, let alone speaking out loud. I’m still struggling with writing this review many days later. So let me put this out there:

Everyone should read this - no, really everyone.

The writing is beautiful. The story is rich and perfect. The characters are real, flawed, and amazing. I laughed hysterically – snorting out loud kind of funny. I read passages to Brett because they were so hilarious. I cried. I sobbed. I let these characters touch my heart. And I am viewing life a bit differently now.

I have had a lot of thoughts and emotional worrying lately about my life goals and what’s reachable and worth the time spent obtaining it. This book came at a perfect time in my life and truly touched me. Life is what you make of it – big, small, or in between. These characters have reminded me that life without fame or far-reaching impacts is STILL a life worth living. People around the world may never know my name, I may never get a book on the shelves in my local bookstore…but that’s ok. I have warm relationships with the people most important to me and that is legacy enough. Don’t get me wrong – I’m still going to work towards some of my big/lofty dreams, but at the end of the day my legacy isn’t dependant on those dreams being reached. The people I love are.

So, when I say this book changed the way I see life – it really did. I found a sort of peace within my inner juggling. I think when that gets off balance again; I will pull out this book for a re-read to re-center myself.

In My Mailbox - January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

This week I got one review book, one book I won via Twitter, one book from Paperback Swap, one signed book from a great friend...and one book I still can't figure out why I received it.

The book won via Twitter

Top book - Book tour. Bottom book - NO IDEA!

And on to the book I was most excited to receive this week - Looking for Alaska by John Green.

I also got Truman from PBS (HUGE book for when I hit him in the Presidential Challenge)

Now, this might seem like a normal book to get excited about - and it truly is (hello, JG!) but what makes this book extra, EXTRA special is that my friend Smash loves me. So...when John Green was doing a speaking/signing in her local she offered a personalized signed copy of any of his books for one of the peeps in our online book club. I happened to be the winner! Woot!

Smash said that she was near the front of the signing line which enabled her to get a personalized copy - after the first few he totally said he couldn't do anymore extras...I mean, the man just signed his name on The Fault in Our Stars like 150,000 times so who can really blame him.

So...behold my beautiful personalized JG novel:

I am SUCH a sucker for personalized books.

Bookish: E-book Cookbook Review

2012-01-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

A while back Brett bought a e-book cookbook on his nook. He thought it would be a nice way to consolidate space in the kitchen – e-books take up much less shelf space in our cabinets. Well, turns out it wasn’t as conducive as he anticipated. We have the first generation nooks, so ours aren’t in color and that is his biggest complaint. The beautiful photos of the dishes…that generally make your mouth water and cause an immediate drive to the grocery store…well in non-color e-book they are black and white and not pretty at all. After giving the e-book version a few attempts he gave up – buying a print copy that now stands with our other numerous cookbooks.

He did say if we had a color e-reader it would be worth trying again. I think this is just his desperate attempt to get me onboard with upgrading to the iPad. Keep dreaming babe.

Friday Five (19)

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

1. Sammie threw up last night so Brett called in to work. As much as the hours of his job make me crazy he accrues mega sick time which is really nice with a kid!

2. Did you see my vlog I posted last night? If not - check it out here! On a related note, does YouTube purposely pick the most unattractive moment to use as the cover photo/thumbnail thing?

3. As a parent of a toddler myself, I loved this post Jacki posted this week on her blog, Lovely Little Shelf, about how she is working to raise her son Izey to be a reader. If you don't follow Jacki's blog - you should. She is super cool...and her kid is beyond adorable.

4. We had a realtor come to the house this week and we got some good and some not so good news. He said we would probably sit on the market awhile for the price we were hoping to sell at but that our house is great and at a $10,000 lower price we would sell really quick. So, we are mulling that over trying to line up finances with some other possible plans for this year to see what course of action is best. Sigh. Being an adult is not so fun sometimes.

5. In light of #4 I have been doing a lot of looking forward to this in an effort to keep me from obsessing over things that I can't control right now.

My Bookish Vlog!

2012-01-26T18:41:00.001-06:00

I enjoyed doing my first vlog so much that when Julie suggested another one - I jumped on it. Sammie even makes an appearance in this one. :)

Please forgive my non-expert use of the laptop's webcam...I hope no one ends up sick to their stomach after watching this. If you do, I blame it on Sammie - she's cute...you can't hate her.

Here are the questions:

1) Show us or tell us about the most valuable book in your collection - either for monetary or sentimental value.
2) What are your literary pet peeves?
3) What is your favorite non-book literary possession?
4) Show us/tell us about where you usually read.
5) Give up a literary confession - something you do that would drive other readers nuts.
6) What book/genre is your guilty pleasure?
7) Describe your biggest fangirl moment relating to books.
8) What book have you reread the most times?
9) How many books do you own?
10) Show us/tell us about how your books are organized.

Review: Rainwater by Sandra Brown

2012-01-26T07:09:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: November 3, 2009
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 256
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Acclaimed bestselling author Sandra Brown celebrates the spirit and determination that kept our country proud even through the Great Depression, in this moving tale of a bygone generation and a strong young widow who must rise above her circumstances.

Ella Barron is determined that even the ravages of the Dust Bowl will not affect the well-ordered life she has built for herself and her special child, Solly, who lives in a world of his own that even she can’t enter. Aware that he evokes pity and distrust, Ella holds herself aloof from her small community, but her new boarder, David Rainwater, comes into her life— and changes it forever. As economic desperation creates bitter social unrest in the town and surrounding farms, Ella finds herself relying on Mr. Rainwater’s soft-spoken advice and the steely resolve of his convictions. But tensions escalate in the summer heat, until one violent night everything they believe in will be put to the ultimate test.

Sandra Brown’s Rainwater is a poignant, lyrical novel that will speak straight to your heart, a story that bears witness to a powerful truth: love is worth whatever price one must pay for it.

My review: This story starts out in the present time, but quickly transports the reader back to the past – the Dust Bowl. I was so engrossed in the flashback that I forgot there was a present day storyline. When I hit the last few pages when time was transported to the now, I was stunned and confused. I had completely been lost in the time of Ella and Solly.

Speaking of Solly, I was fascinated by his character and the view of how Doctors and medicine handled autistic children in that era. Ella knew she needed to protect Solly, but also struggled with the demands of such care and oversight. I thought this entire storyline was fascinating and very well developed and written. I was possibly in love with Mr. Rainwater the moment he first stepped into Ella’s boarding house. My admiration continued to grow as he became more prominent in the story, and in the lives of all that he touched. His relationship with Solly was especially endearing.

This was a shorter book, but still an excellent story full of emotions and a glimpse into the past.

Review: The Last Founding Father by Harlow Giles Unger

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Da Capo Press
Release Date: September 28, 2010
Format: Paperback
Pages: 400
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Founding Father James Monroe (1751-1831) long outlived the birth of the country and became so revered that he won two presidential elections (1816, 1820) with no significant opposition. In retrospect, it's easy to discern why: His credentials as a solder, congressman, senator, ambassador, governor, and secretary of state establish him as arguably the best-prepared president in our nation's history. Harlow Giles Unger presents this unjustly neglected leader within the context of his times.

My review: This book focuses primarily on James Monroe’s pre-Presidential political life, which I found good and bad. I loved that I learned so much about his work as a Founding Father, and his life abroad because these both deeply impact his Presidential views and decision making. However, I would have like a bit more on his actual time during the Presidency as well. I am learning with each passing biography I read as part of this challenge that I want more – longer books and more details. I have a feeling I will be picking the longer books for the next wave of biographies I order.

After reading this biography, Monroe sticks out in my mind as one of the last “George Washington” type Presidents. He fought in the Revolution – including being wounded and almost dying and he then later lead the country from the Presidential roost. He stayed in politics even when it was by far a monetarily losing career, much like Washington. This is such a powerful image for me. He put his life on the line atop a horse fighting in battle after battle but then also putting his family’s well-being and prosperity on the line for years in order to fight for his country with words in the early government and then using his presence in working on treaties with foreign countries.

One of the big issues in Monroe's mind was connecting the citizens and communities that had sprung out of the massive growth as the US purchased lands in the continent. He focused a lot of his time, resources and money as a President towards building better roads and canals. I found it fascinating to imagine a country without such now common means of travel.

I love that these biographies are providing insight into my country's history in ways that extend past the actual Presidents. Pages 249 in this book included a brief history of The Star-Spangled Banner - it was originally called Defense of Fort McHenry as a poem and then set to music in 1815. The song it was set to was a then-popular drinking song. I loved this!

Tot Tuesday: Manny's Toolbox by Marcy Kelman

2012-01-24T08:04:00.002-06:00

Manny's Toolbox [With 7 Tool-Shaped Books] (Disney Handy Manny)by Marcy Kelman, Alan Batson (Illustrator) - My Mom bought this for Sammie a year or so ago when she first became obsessed with Manny and his crew of talking tools. It has a cute little carrying handle on the top, but the best part is the little cardstock miniature tools that actually come out of the pages. They are nestled into recesses on each page, but Sammie is able to get them out on her own. Each tool pull out is its own separate book that provides facts and tidbits of information about the function of each tool. This book stays at my parent’s house and Sammie plays with it almost every single time we are there. I highly recommend this book for any kid that loves tools, building things, or Handy Manny.

Review: Blank Slate Kate by Heather Wardell

2012-01-23T07:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Self-Published
Release Date: November 24, 2011
Format: E-Book
Pages: 240
Source: From Author

From Goodreads: Waking up with a strange man is scary. Realizing you lost fifteen years of your life overnight? That's terrifying. With her memories from seventeen to thirty-two gone, Kate has no idea who she is and where she belongs. As she begins to fall for the man who found her, she wonders if she forgot those years for a reason. Should she keep trying to retrieve her original self, or start a new life?

My review: The premise of this story is fascinating – a woman wakes up to find out she doesn’t remember who she is. I loved investigating along side Kate as she discovers who she…or at least who she isn’t. I couldn't trust anyone at first, including Jake. The circumstances were too vague for me to be 100% cool with him. As the story progressed I was won over a bit on his side though. For me the really interesting part started the moment we knew Kate’s actual name, Donna. And then came a husband, a witchy mother-in-law, and more secrets.

The struggle Kate-Donna went through trying to feel comfortable in her own skin – fighting against the name and trying to fit into her life – gave the story a Alice in Wonderland feel. Things were all out of sorts - the reader spends the book trying to piece together her past using the characters she runs across in her journey...just like Alice does looking for the White Rabbit.

The ending was good, but I was really rooting for the guy she didn't end up. His character took an unexpected turn towards the last third of the story which I was a little bummed with but that didn't impact my view of the book overall.

In My Mailbox - January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T09:15:00.004-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

Late last week was the start of our spending freeze so this might be the last IMM I do for a month or so.

The only book I received this week was for an upcoming TLC Tour. This book looks really interesting!

Bookish: Banned Books Poster

2012-01-21T07:09:00.000-06:00

I am a Gilmore Girls fan - a big one actually. There are many things that I love about the show, but primarily I loved Rory and her book love. Every since I saw this poster on the wall in Paris and Rory's apartment I have wanted it.

I recently ran across this on Pintrest so I repinned it because it's bookish and I love it. I didn't realize until later that the pin is actually a link to a PDF download of the poster. It's not as big as on Rory's wall, but I think the smaller size will actually better suit my use. I haven't printed it yet because I'm still narrowing down where I want to hang it, but I am excited that I found it!

Friday Five (18)

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

1. Today starts the work on the front stoop.* Fingers crossed they can get the work done in one day...of course we will still have a demolished front yard for awhile, but this is the first step to getting this project completed.

*I swear, I will stop complaining about this whole saga soon. I'm sure you are all sick of hearing about it.

2. I have been having some major issues with AT&T Uverse...and some of the CS staff the past few weeks. I may have figured out a work around but I'm not sure. If not, I may implode with frustration. Fair warning.

3. I am starting 2012 on target for the Presidential Challenge. I completed the James Monroe biography last night. Yay!

4. I got my hair cut last Friday afternoon. And because I'm a total attention demanding person...check out the new style (complete with new bangs). Go ahead, tell me how much you love it in the comments...you know you want to.

5. Have ya'll heard of the Newberry Book Fair in Chicago? It sounds amazing! I really think Brett and I are going to attend...flights to Chicago are pretty cheap from her. And we had already talked about taking a mini-vacation there this year. The used book sale portion just adds the icing on the cake!

Here are some details I found online: Thousands of enthusiastic shoppers filled the Newberry for Chicago’s most popular used book binge. They browsed through more than 120,000 used books in 70 categories, most of which were priced under $2.

2012 Book FairThursday, July 26 and Friday, July 27 | 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29 | 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Review: Girls in Trucks by Katie Crouch

2012-01-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Back Bay Books
Release Date: April 7, 2009
Format: Paperback
Pages: 272
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Sarah Walters, the narrator of GIRLS IN TRUCKS, is a reluctant Camellia Society debutante. She has always felt ill-fitted to the rococo ways of Southern womanhood and family, and is anxious to shake the bonds of her youth. Still, she follows the traditional path laid out for her. This is Charleston, and in this beautiful, dark, segregated town, established rules and manners mean everything.

But as Sarah grows older, she finds that her Camellia lessons fail her, particularly as she goes to college, moves North, and navigates love and life in New York. There, Sarah and her group of displaced deb sisters try to define themselves within the realities of modern life. Heartbreak, addiction, disappointing jobs and death fail to live up to the hazy, happy future promised to them by their Camellia mothers and sisters.

When some unexpected bumps in the road--an unplanned birth, a family death--lead Sarah back home, she's forced to take another long look at the fading empire of her youth. It takes a strange turn of events to finally ground Sarah enough to make some serious choices. And only then does she realize that as much as she tried to deny it, where she comes from will always affect where she ends up. The motto of her girlhood cotillion society, "Once a Camellia, always a Camellia," may turn out to have more wisdom and pull to it than she ever could have guessed.

My review: I wanted a down home Southern fiction story…and this book was sort of like that – at least for a few chapters here and there. This isn’t to say I didn’t enjoy the story; just that it wasn’t what I expected. Sarah and her group of Camellia Society girls were raised in the South, but then they are dispersed leading us on a wondering, rambling story of finding adulthood and maturity.

The characters were real – they had unspoken pains and hidden problems – but the text rambled along without a lot of depth on the side characters. I went along for the ride, finally enjoying the story as Sarah ended up back in Savannah. I finally found my Southern fiction story, complete with social gatherings and deeply shocking revelations. This is a decent story, just don’t go in expecting a lot of the South on each page and you should enjoy it.

Review: Seven Year Switch by Claire Cook

2012-01-18T07:09:00.002-06:00

Publisher: Hyperion Books
Release Date: June 1, 2010
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 240
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Just when she's finally figured out how to manage on her own, Jill Murray's ex-husband, Seth, is back crashing into the man-free existence Jill and her ten-year-old daughter, Anastasia, have built so carefully. Jill's life just hasn't turned out quite the way she'd planned. By now, she'd hoped to be jetting around the world as a high-end cultural coach. Instead, she's answering phones for a local travel agency and teaching cooking classes at the community center. Enter free-spirited entrepreneur Billy who hires Jill as a consultant for an upcoming business trip. Suddenly, her no-boys-allowed life is anything but.

They say that every seven years you become a completely new person, but Jill isn't sure she's ready to make the leap. It takes a Costa Rican getaway to help her make a choice not so much between the two men in her life, but between the woman she is and the woman she wants to be.

My review: The husband that up and leaves his wife and daughter is not the husband who is wanted 7 years later. But, Jill doesn’t really have a choice when Seth is back…she has to think of her daughter and what’s best for her. I found myself enjoying this story, but unable to decide which way I wanted the plot to go. Should Jill let him back into their lives? Should she slam the door in his face? And then came the budding romance – now I really didn’t have a clue how I wanted anything to go. I must confess that I had figured out one of the big events that occurred with both men before it occurred, but that didn’t damper the story much. Her end of the story trip to Costa Rica was beautifully described and written – I wanted to hop on a plane myself.

This is a good general fiction (bordering on chic-lit) for a quicker read but a story with real depth too.

Tot Tuesday: At the Park: A Magic Picture Book by Sue King

2012-01-17T08:10:00.000-06:00

At the Park: A Magic Picture Book by Sue King - I picked this one of the library shelf because of the cover. It has one of those hologram like pictures where you rotate the book and it changes slightly. I thought Sammie would love that the pictures on the page changed, but instead she was a little confused. Once she got used to it, she loved turning the book at different angles to see how the story played out. It was a cute story about a girl and her friend taking a trip to the local park - something most toddlers can relate to. Sammie would start talking about our neighborhood park, the swings, and her stroller rides there each time we read this book.

Review: Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green, David Levithan

2012-01-16T07:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Speak
Release Date: April 5, 2011
Format: Paperback
Pages: 321
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: One cold night, in a most unlikely corner of Chicago, Will Grayson crosses paths with . . . Will Grayson. Two teens with the same name, running in two very different circles, suddenly find their lives going in new and unexpected directions, and culminating in epic turns-of-heart and the most fabulous musical ever to grace the high school stage. Told in alternating voices from two YA superstars, this collaborative novel features a double helping of the heart and humor that have won them both legions of fans.

My review: This book has been highly recommended on my online book club so when we were headed to the YALL Fest and David Levithan was to be there I decided to pick it up to have signed. A few more online book clubbers recently read this for the first time within the past month, so when I was looking for my final read of 2011 this one was on my mind.

I started this book over my lunch break – I read while I eat at my desk – and this was probably a mistake. I might get fired…possibly. I was laughing so hard that a few of my coworkers not on their lunch hour kept asking me if I was ok! The laughing continued when I picked up the book at home that evening. And then the tears started.

Each Will Grayson is a complex character so the first portion of the book reads like to well-developed stories until the moment when the two meet. And suddenly the entire story shifts - but in an amazing way. Their individual problems became similar in the light of each other - universal struggles that teens deal with but still keeping their uniqueness. That doesn't make much sense, but it's true.

The ending - well, that was beautiful. There really isn't another word for it...just beautiful. The story itself was beautiful, the writing (this was great throughout, not just the ending) and the characters shown with beauty in the last few scenes.

This entire review isn't much of a review, more of a rambling thought explosion so I will cut to the chase. This book is amazing - it's hysterical, it's heartbreaking, and it's inspiring. Read it!

In My Mailbox - January 15, 2012

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

This week could be labeled an explosion of books!

First, I received the copy of The Fault in our Stars by John Green that I won from my amazing friend Tameka's blog. ~ I can't WAIT to dig into this one as soon as my current book is finished.

The second two books I ordered from Amazon to bump up our total to the $25 for free shipping. We got both for less than $10! My Father-in-law was raving about The Lincoln Lawyer. He rarely reads but said we would really enjoy it.

The last two books are ARCs I received from the fabulous Kelly. I love when she shares her book goodies!

Faith is a tour book through TLC Tours - be on the lookout for that towards the end of February. I own a copy of The Help in e-book, but loved it so much I wanted a print copy to grace my bookshelves. I didn't want to buy it so I just put it on my Paperback Swap wishlist and I finally got my copy.

Bookish: More Amazing Home Libraries

2012-01-14T07:09:00.018-06:00

I want a loft someday…

The glass doors…the blue!

I could grab a book, get comfy, and never leave!

I have always had an obsession with clear furniture. This combines that obsession with my book obsession.

Friday Five (17)

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

1. Today at 11:30am I kick-off my 3.5 day weekend!

2. I shall be spending part of my Friday afternoon getting a hair cut! I'm getting bangs again! Woot! Eeek! I am terrified...well, not so much of the actual getting bangs part - but of the time it takes to grow them back out should I hate them. I am still gung-ho on getting bangs mainly because of my daughter. See, pregnancy and parenting an infant takes a toll on your body...and hair. She took such a toll on me that a thin line of hair running from one ear to the other broke. These hairs never grew back so they were these tiny stub things...well know 2.5 years late they are growing out. And given that it's winter and static took up residence in my hair so I have this nice strip of hair that stands straight up no matter what I do. My hope is that with bangs they will lay down and blend in. Fingers crossed, ok?

3. Winter has FINALLY shown itself to Missouri! We had snow yesterday...it's so pretty! I love warm weather, but I also delight in the pretty white fluff falling from the sky. It's beautiful and the world seems to get quieter under a blanket. I can stand on my front porch, and not hear anything going on in my neighborhood. It's so peaceful and it really only happens when it snows.

4. Little Miss Sammie isn't feeling so hot right now. She has been sleeping rough all week and Wednesday night woke up in the wee hours of the morning with a runny/snotty nose. Poor thing can't breathe when she lies down. This means we aren't getting a lot of sleep either, but we are also getting some sweet middle of the night snuggles. It's so hard to believe that she is nearing her 3rd birthday. I can still feel her tiny baby body cuddled on my chest when I hold her now. Although, now she doesn't curl up because she's gotten to big for that. :)

5. Brett and I have lined up babysitters (AKA my parents) to watch Sammie for the midnight Hunger Games release! We couldn't be more excited! We are planning on double dating with one of our best couple friends too! In order to properly celebrate such an exciting event...I need a Hunger Games shirt to wear. Any suggestions?

111 in ’11 Official Finish Line

2012-01-12T08:00:00.002-06:00

2012 is upon us and already marching forward so that means it is time for the final 111 in ’11 wrap up post. If you read 111 books in 2011 please add a comment with a link to a yearly wrap up blog post or Goodreads shelf or some other site showing that you have completed the challenge. I will leave this post open until January 19, 2012 and then I will pick a winner.

Do you remember the goodies you might win? If not, let me remind you!

1. All of Heather Wardell’s novels in E-book format.

2. A few ARC and/or books from my own stash. I have a few in mind, but haven’t decided for sure so these will be a surprise.

Review: Ditched: A Love Story by Robin Mellom

2012-01-11T07:00:00.006-06:00

Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Release Date: January 10, 2012
Format: E-Book
Pages: 288
Source: Publisher via NetGalley

From Goodreads: High school senior Justina Griffith was never the girl who dreamed of going to prom. Designer dresses and strappy heels? Not her thing. So she never expected her best friend, Ian Clark, to ask her.

Ian, who always passed her the baseball bat handle first.

Ian, who knew exactly when she needed red licorice.

Ian, who promised her the most amazing night at prom.

And then ditched her.

Now, as the sun rises over her small town, and with only the help of some opinionated ladies at the 7-Eleven, Justina must piece together — stain by stain on her thrift-store dress — exactly how she ended up dateless. A three-legged Chihuahua was involved. Along with a demolition derby-ready Cadillac. And there was that incident at the tattoo parlor. Plus the flying leap from Brian Sontag's moving car...

But to get the whole story, Justina will have to face the boy who ditched her. And discover if losing out at prom can ultimately lead to true love.

My review: Everyone has heard about or lived through a horrible High School Prom Night. Mine involved my date getting so terribly lost we missed dinner completely and arrived late to the actual dance. Well, Justina’s was much, much worse than that in this book. Starting off from a very unladylike fall from a moving car, she takes us on a look back at her horrible prom night – starting each chapter of her story with a stain on her dress. I thought this was such a cute method for tracing back through the night’s events.

Reputation is a large part of this story, and I thought the topic was discussed and portrayed well. My only hiccup is that much of the reputation is surrounding kissing boys, and at least in my experiences by reaching the age of going to prom reputations with any weight were only about sex. Kissing wasn’t worthy of a reputation any more at that age – sleeping around was.

If I were describing this book in one word, I would go with adorable. Justina is adorable, with her quirky personality; the story was adorable; the other characters were adorable; the ending was adorable.

Tot Tuesday: Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray

2012-01-10T07:56:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Tot Tuesday – a weekly feature where I review and share a children’s book. Children’s books are such a big part of my life now that I want to share them for other parents, grandparents or anyone who buys a child a book with the hope of instilling a lifelong love of reading.

The books I review and share are generally books from my daughter’s bookshelves and her library selections. She generally selects library books by a very technical method of grabbing every book in her reach and shoving them into the bag we bring with us. Thus, each week will be a surprising post.

Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray - This was a library book that probably got more reading time than any other library book we have ever checked out. Sammie loved it so much we would sit and read it over and over until we finally made her pick another book. It is full of quick sing-song verse that builds upon itself easily making tongue twisters. Of which, Sammie loved - she would laugh as we tripped over the words. She also loved the story itself - she would act out the cries of the Hippo, and continue through the last few pages.

Another New Bookcase

2012-01-09T07:00:00.006-06:00

After receiving a little unexpected holiday cash I made a quick decision on what I would spend it on – a third bookcase. It’s not that surprising really given that the two I had were overflowing. I had books stacked vertical and horizontal trying to make the most of the space I had. And still I was quickly outgrowing – my speed in buying bargain books is probably to blame.

I had to clear this purchase idea with Brett not because I need his permission or anything 1950’s like that…but because I needed his brawn. Well, I guess that’s still a little 1950’s but I’m short and this shelves are heavy. Plus, getting a third shelf would involve moving our bedroom around – the wall with the bookshelves wouldn’t hold anymore…but the wall with the long dresser on it would. We have our furniture safety strapped to the wall in case Sammie would climb up and tip it on her – the dresser won’t fall on her. So he had to unstrap the dresser and then drill more stud holes where we moved it to.

So we spent a Friday night unloading my shelves (Sammie loved helping with this) and flipping the dresser and bookcases around. I then headed to the store to buy the bookcase…my parents went along with me because I was afraid the bookcase wouldn’t fit and I would have to use straps to get my trunk to close and that freaks me out. Ends up it fit perfectly (we must have been driving Brett’s car when we picked up the last one because I swear we had to tie the trunk down) but it was nice to have my dad on hand to help Brett unload the box from the trunk and carry it inside. We are talking seriously heavy bookcase people. When I came home from taking my parents back to their house I found Brett almost done assembling the bookcase.

Isn’t he the best? And no, he’s not for sale nor am I giving him up anytime soon.

He had to work Saturday so Sammie and I spent our New Years Eve putting the books back on the shelves…or as she termed it, “Organizing Mommy’s Books!”

I had planned on doing a vlog of my bookshelves this month, but instead I’m being lazy. So here are up close bookcase by bookcase photos of the library. The first two shelves (and the little stack of white books on the first bookcase) are read, while next two shelves are unread. And of course, HP has its own shelf. Click on the photos to blow them up so you can read the spines if you are really nosy. I'm nosy when it comes to other people's shelves...I like to see what books they have.

In My Mailbox – January 15, 2012

2012-01-08T07:00:00.002-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

My Barnes and Noble order via holiday Gift Cards arrived this week. All of these books for $25.87 - awesome! Many of them were already on my TBR - Need to Acquire list so they all weren't total impulse buys.

Brett asked me earlier this week if we had Bossypants because he had heard it was pretty good. We didn't, but I've been wanting to read it too so I told him I would look at prices. He said he would probably just buy the E-book but I told him I wanted it for our shelves because the spine is bright yellow. :) The next morning guess what is sitting in my inbox - a coupon for Bossypants! I was able to buy it for like $4 less than the E-book and it will look beautiful on the shelves.

Bookish: Tracking My Reading Stats

2012-01-07T07:40:00.000-06:00

Starting in 2012 I am going to be tracking my reading stats a bit differently. I will continue to use Goodreads for the unofficial tally, easy access, and the friends/network I have there. I am going to start tracking my reading stats in a spreadsheet. Now, anyone that knows me is thinking, ANOTHER spreadsheet? That woman has one for EVERYTHING. This is pretty much an accurate statement…but I didn’t have one for my reading stats…a travesty!

I created a spreadsheet for our home library in 2011 (and boy, was it shocking to see how many books we actually own!) so I’m just going to make my reading stats a separate tab in this workbook. My plan is to be able to better track more detailed information than I can on GR. Things like page count, (sometimes GR wouldn’t have the exact version I was reading) and genre. I’m pretty excited to play with this data as the year progresses…especially the page count!

Plus, I figured I needed another spreadsheet in my life!

Friday Five (16)

2012-01-06T07:14:00.001-06:00

1. The contractor for our front stoop repair (I'm sure you are so tired of hearing about this saga) came out this week. Good news is that we have to remove WAY less landscaping than the original sales guy told us. Bad news is that the whole thing still costs a ton of money. Barf. Actually, double barf.

2. I have been doing a lot of thinking about this blog lately. I considered nixing it all together...but then I realized that I love this blog. I love talking books, I love reviewing books and getting my thoughts together. What I don't love is stress. This blog was stressing me out...and that's not cool. In all my thinking I have decided the stress stems from review books. Mainly, stress over scheduling review copies in with all the other tons of books I want to read. Life is short (ha, pun intended) and I want to read ALL THE BOOKS. I buy books a lot (I'm thinking of finding a self-help group for this) and I hate pushing those aside to read review books. But I find myself struggling with a balance. So, I'm nixing all most all review books from here on out. I am going to honor tours I have already signed up, and the review books I have already received but I won't be accepting anymore going forward except on a very exclusive basis. I have shifted the goal of this blog - I don't want to be the next famous book blogger with hundreds of review books...I want to be me...if I don't gain any followers that's fine. I want this blog to be a true reflection of me.

3. Along those lines - I will also not be stressing myself if I don't blog every day. I do a lot of my posting ahead of time, scheduling it for a specific day. This is great for me because my internet time is only in the evening after Sammie is in bed. I can't blog from work (expressly prohibited in our handbook actually) so I usually carve out a few hours a week to review and schedule posts. But, sometimes I run out of scheduled posts, or get behind in writing my reviews...and from now on that's Okie Dokie Artichockie (as Sammie loves to say).

4. Related to #3 - I am embracing my love for big honkin books! I love them in all there hundreds and hundreds of pages glory. I have found myself skipping over them repeatedly on my bookshelves because I know it will take me a week to read it, which will mean I won't have new reviews for a week. But no more! I will read what I want (big or skinny) when I want.

5. In deciding to keep the blog I am pretty sure I want to make the move to buying a domain name and probably switching to wordpress. I have a ton of people willing to help me out...but does anyone know of someone good that I could pay to do it all for me? I want to find out how much such a service might cost before I tackle it myself (and alienate a few blogger friends with my thousands of questions I will be sure to have).

Review: The Chosen One by Carol Lynch Williams

2012-01-05T07:00:00.002-06:00

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: May 12, 2009
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 213
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Thirteen-year-old Kyra has grown up in an isolated community without questioning the fact that her father has three wives and she has twenty brothers and sisters, with two more on the way. That is, without questioning them much---if you don’t count her secret visits to the Mobile Library on Wheels to read forbidden books, or her meetings with Joshua, the boy she hopes to choose for herself instead of having a man chosen for her.

But when the Prophet decrees that she must marry her sixty-year-old uncle---who already has six wives---Kyra must make a desperate choice in the face of violence and her own fears of losing her family forever.

My review: Each time I pick up a shorter length book I worry that the story won’t draw me in. I always favor longer books for the details – those details usually pull me into the story so I connect with the characters. While this is a short book, less than 250 pages, it captivated me from the get-go.

Kyra is a young girl, full of personality and dreams – both of which are not acceptable characteristics within the isolated religious compound she lives in. Being an outsider to that community I was fighting for Kyra to escape from the first word…but then she is told she will be marrying her much, much older uncle. I wanted someone to get a gun to take care of these disgusting old men preying on young girls.

The emotions Kyra goes through with each moment are powerful. Her absolute terror at her future with her uncle as she sees herself broken if she stays there. Her powerful bond with her sisters and physical weak mom causes her heartache at the thought of leaving the community. Her young love with Joshua – and then more terror as she realizes what has happened when that becomes known to her uncle and the Prophet.

I won’t give it away but the ending is complete suspense – I could hardly breathe or wipe away the tears for the last 30 pages or so. My only complaint is that I want a sequel.

2011 Complete Wrap-Up

2012-01-04T07:00:00.005-06:00

I completed 2011 with a total of 150 books read. This is the most I have EVER read in a year so it's a pretty big deal to me. This is a list of all the books that kept me company throughout 2011. It's a pretty broad range of genres and non-fiction vs fiction.

I mentioned my 2012 reading/writing/education/blogging goals here, but one thing not mentioned is that I want to keep my book selection broad. I like reading across genres, fiction/non-fiction, and jump outside my norm regularly.

In an upcoming post I will chat about some changes I'm making to how I track my books read. I'm hoping that 2012 year-end stats will include a lot more detail!

Title	Author	Stars	Read
Russian Winter	Daphne Kalotay	4	1/2/11
The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games, #1)	Suzanne Collins	5	1/3/11
Catching Fire (The Hunger Games, #2)	Suzanne Collins	5	1/4/11
Mockingjay (The Hunger Games, #3)	Suzanne Collins	5	1/5/11
Cleopatra's Daughter	Michelle Moran	4	1/8/11
Stir Until Thoroughly Confused	Heather Wardell	4	1/10/11
Hitch-22: A Memoir	Christopher Hitchens	4	1/15/11
Delirium (Delirium #1)	Lauren Oliver	4	1/17/11
Annette Vallon: A Novel of the French Revolution	James Tipton	4	1/21/11
The Truth about Forever	Sarah Dessen	4	1/23/11
Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception (Books of Faerie, #1)	Maggie Stiefvater	3	1/24/11
Ballad: A Gathering of Faerie (Books of Faerie, #2)	Maggie Stiefvater	3	1/25/11
The Oracle of Stamboul (Advance Reader's Edition)	Michael David Lukas	3	1/27/11
Along for the Ride	Sarah Dessen	4	1/29/11
Mistress of the Art of Death (Mistress of the Art of Death, #1)	Ariana Franklin	3	2/2/11
Firelight (Firelight, #1)	Sophie Jordan	5	2/3/11
Paranormalcy (Paranormalcy, #1)	Kiersten White	4	2/4/11
The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen	Syrie James	3	2/8/11
Charles and Emma	Deborah Heiligman	4	2/12/11
She-Wolves: The Women Who Ruled England Before Elizabeth	Helen Castor	4	2/18/11
Fallen (Fallen, #1)	Lauren Kate	3	2/20/11
The Emperor's Body: A Novel	Peter Brooks	2	2/24/11
The Education of Bet	Lauren Baratz-Logsted	3	2/26/11
Bright Young Things (Bright Young Things, #1)	Anna Godbersen	4	2/28/11
Hex Hall (Hex Hall, #1)	Rachel Hawkins	4	3/1/11
Demonglass (Hex Hall, #2)	Rachel Hawkins	4	3/2/11
Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the French Revolution	Michelle Moran	5	3/6/11
Wither	Lauren DeStefano	3	3/8/11
Stay	Deb Caletti	4	3/10/11
Heaven and Earth (Three Sisters Island, #2)	Nora Roberts	3	3/13/11
Dancing with Gravity	Anene Tressler	2	3/17/11
13 Little Blue Envelopes (Little Blue Envelope, #1)	Maureen Johnson	3	3/20/11
The Last Little Blue Envelope (Little Blue Envelope, #2)	Maureen Johnson	3	3/21/11
Wintergirls	Laurie Halse Anderson	5	3/24/11
The Tapestry of Love	Rosy Thornton	4	3/30/11
Fixing Delilah	Sarah Ockler	4	3/31/11
Where She Went (If I Stay, #2)	Gayle Forman	5	4/1/11
The Year of Living Biblically	A.J. Jacobs	4	4/3/11
This Life Is in Your Hands	Melissa Coleman	4	4/7/11
Just Listen	Sarah Dessen	5	4/8/11
That Summer	Sarah Dessen	3	4/9/11
Semi-Sweet: A Novel of Love and Cupcakes	Roisin Meaney	3	4/10/11
Face the Fire (Three Sisters Island trilogy #3)	Nora Roberts	3	4/12/11
The Dressmaker	Posie Graeme-Evans	4	4/15/11
Bumped (Bumped, #1)	Megan McCafferty	3	4/17/11
Sweet Jiminy	Kristin Gore	3	4/18/11
Matched (Matched, #1)	Ally Condie	3	4/20/11
The White Devil	Justin Evans	3	4/24/11
The Emerald Atlas (The Books of Beginning #1)	John Stephens	3	4/26/11
Skinny: A Novel (P.S.)	Diana Spechler	2	4/29/11
Lost in Shangri-la	Mitchell Zuckoff	4	4/29/11
Abandon (Abandon Trilogy, #1)	Meg Cabot	4	5/1/11
Shine	Lauren Myracle	4	5/4/11
In the Garden of Beasts	Erik Larson	4	5/7/11
Bleeding Violet	Dia Reeves	3	5/8/11
The Geek Dad's Guide to Weekend Fun	Ken Denmead	3	5/9/11
Tiny Sunbirds, Far Away	Christie Watson	4	5/13/11
Dead Reckoning (Sookie Stackhouse, #11)	Charlaine Harris	4	5/14/11
What Happened to Goodbye	Sarah Dessen	5	5/15/11
The Peach Keeper	Sarah Addison Allen	4	5/17/11
The Countess and the King	Susan Holloway Scott	4	5/21/11
Sex with the Queen	Eleanor Herman	4	5/24/11
Queen Hereafter: A Novel of Margaret of Scotland	Susan Fraser King	4	5/28/11
The Case for the Only Child: Your Essential Guide	Susan Newman	3	5/30/11
Lion Called Christian	Anthony Bourke	3	6/1/11
Everything Beautiful Began After	Simon Van Booy	2	6/1/11
The Bird Sisters	Rebecca Rasmussen	3	6/5/11
Clara and Mr. Tiffany	Susan Vreeland	3	6/7/11
The Awakening (The Vampire Diaries, #1)	L.J. Smith	3	6/11/11
State of Wonder	Ann Patchett	3	6/11/11
The Struggle (The Vampire Diaries, #2)	L.J. Smith	3	6/12/11
My Dear I Wanted to Tell You	Louisa Young	4	6/15/11
A Life That Fits	Heather Wardell	4	6/19/11
Stork (Stork, #1)	Wendy Delsol	3	6/24/11
Washington: A Life	Ron Chernow	5	6/29/11
Jerusalem Maiden	Talia Carner	4	7/1/11
The Vespertine (The Vespertine, #1)	Saundra Mitchell	3	7/3/11
Season to Taste	Molly Birnbaum	3	7/6/11
Mothers and Daughters	Rae Meadows	3	7/8/11
Blood of the Reich: A Novel	William Dietrich	4	7/11/11
The Beach Trees	Karen White	4	7/14/11
Nocturne (Claire de Lune #2)	Christine Johnson	4	7/16/11
Vanish (Firelight, #2)	Sophie Jordan	4	7/17/11
The Wild Life of Our Bodies	Rob Dunn	3	7/20/11
Between Here and Forever	Elizabeth Scott	3	7/21/11
The Good Muslim	Tahmima Anam	3	7/23/11
The Piano Teacher	Janice Y.K. Lee	3	7/26/11
700 Sundays	Billy Crystal	2	7/27/11
Forever (The Wolves of Mercy Falls, #3)	Maggie Stiefvater	4	7/29/11
Supernaturally (Paranormalcy, #2)	Kiersten White	5	7/30/11
Divergent (Divergent, #1)	Veronica Roth	5	7/31/11
Wherever You Go: A Novel	Joan Leegant	2	8/3/11
Mistress of the Revolution: A Novel	Catherine Delors	5	8/6/11
Irma Voth	Miriam Toews	3	8/9/11
The Summer We Came To Life	Deborah Cloyed	4	8/12/11
Next to Love: A Novel	Ellen Feldman	4	8/14/11
Thomas Jefferson: Author of America (Eminent Lives)	Christopher Hitchens	5	8/16/11
The Whites of Their Eyes	Paul Lockhart	4	8/20/11
Across the Universe (Across the Universe, #1)	Beth Revis	5	8/22/11
The Poisoned House	Michael Ford	3	8/24/11
The Violets of March	Sarah Jio	4	8/25/11
The Legacy	Katherine Webb	4	8/27/11
Sorta Like a Rock Star	Matthew Quick	3	8/28/11
Sloppy Firsts (Jessica Darling, #1)	Megan McCafferty	3	8/30/11
Second Helpings (Jessica Darling, #2)	Megan McCafferty	4	8/31/11
Backseat Saints	Joshilyn Jackson	3	9/3/11
Peace, Love, and Baby Ducks	Lauren Myracle	3	9/5/11
Swing Low: A Life	Miriam Toews	2	9/8/11
The Starter Wife	Gigi Levangie Grazer	3	9/10/11
Becoming Marie Antoinette	Juliet Grey	4	9/14/11
Into the Wild	Jon Krakauer	4	9/16/11
Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore	Stella Duffy	3	9/19/11
Three Fates	Nora Roberts	4	9/22/11
Waiting for Robert Capa (P.S.)	Susana Fortes	2	9/26/11
Frost (Stork, #2)	Wendy Delsol	3	9/27/11
Live Out Loud	Heather Wardell	3	9/28/11
Charmed Thirds (Jessica Darling, #3)	Megan McCafferty	4	9/30/11
Lola and the Boy Next Door	Stephanie Perkins	5	10/2/11
Vinegar Hill	A. Manette Ansay	2	10/4/11
The Bronze Horseman (Tatiana and Alexander, #1)	Paullina Simons	5	10/9/11
Tatiana and Alexander	Paullina Simons	5	10/11/11
The Summer Garden: A Love Story	Paullina Simons	5	10/14/11
Keeping the Moon	Sarah Dessen	3	10/23/11
It	Stephen King	4	10/29/11
James Madison (The American Presidents, #4)	Garry Wills	3	11/7/11
The Bungalow: A Novel	Sarah Jio	4	11/16/11
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil	John Berendt	3	11/16/11
Mozart's Last Aria	Matt Rees	4	11/18/11
The Scorpio Races	Maggie Stiefvater	5	11/19/11
Something, Maybe	Elizabeth Scott	3	11/20/11
A Train in Winter:	Caroline Moorehead	4	11/23/11
Fourth Comings (Jessica Darling, #4)	Megan McCafferty	4	11/24/11
Perfect Fifths (Jessica Darling, #5)	Megan McCafferty	4	11/25/11
Beauty Queens	Libba Bray	4	11/30/11
Ditched: A Love Story	Robin Mellom	3	12/3/11
Red Mist (Kay Scarpetta, #19)	Patricia Cornwell	4	12/9/11
Dracula in Love	Karen Essex	3	12/10/11
Wide Awake	David Levithan	4	12/11/11
Joop: A Novel of Anne Frank	Richard Lourie	4	12/13/11
Someone Like You	Sarah Dessen	4	12/15/11
And Then You Know: New and Selected Poems	Kwame Alexander	3	12/16/11
Brokeback Mountain	Annie Proulx	3	12/16/11
Let the Northern Lights Erase Your Name	Vendela Vida	3	12/18/11
The Last Exit to Normal	Michael Harmon	3	12/20/11
The Chosen One	Carol Lynch Williams	3	12/21/11
Seven Year Switch	Claire Cook	3	12/22/11
Girls in Trucks	Katie Crouch	2	12/24/11
Rainwater	Sandra Brown	4	12/25/11
The Queen's Sorrow: A Novel	Suzannah Dunn	2	12/28/11
Will Grayson, Will Grayson	John Green	5	12/29/11

Tot Tuesday: Messy Me! by Marni McGee, Cee Biscoe

2012-01-03T07:56:00.004-06:00

Messy Me! by Marni McGee, Cee Biscoe - Like most toddlers, my kid is a mess most days. She has a snotty nose (which her hair always gets stuck in - ew!), or she has a food on her face, or marker on her hands from daycare art time. This book is perfect for kids who like to get messy! The pages follow a little bear throughout one day - getting messier each flip of the page. It ends with a bath before bed, and hugs from Mommy and Daddy. Sammie loved seeing all the messes the bear got into, especially if she had gotten messy in the same way recently.

My Top 10 books of 2011

2012-01-02T06:58:00.017-06:00

I thought long and hard about these - reviewing all my the books I gave 5 stars. Creating the list...and then revising it! Not all of these were released in 2011...this list is just the top 10 books I read in 2011. I did cheat a little by lumping series/trilogy books together. Oh well, it's my list - I'll do what I want.

As a note: These are no particular order. Also, I had to change this list after I finished the last book I read in 2011. I had to bump Just Listen by Sarah Dessen off for Will Grayson, Will Grayson.

Note: I've linked my review post to each title, except for WG, WG because I haven't finished my review. I started it...but all I could type was "EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!" I will try again but if nothing more eloquent comes to mind you might just get a review in all caps!

The Bronze Horseman trilogy by Paullina Simons

Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins

Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran

Mistress of the Revolution: A Novel by Catherine Delors

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green, David Levithan

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

In My Mailbox - January 1, 2012

2012-01-01T08:00:00.004-06:00

WELCOME 2012!! I hope for myself and all you readers out there that today marks the beginning of another year full of happiness, hope, laughter, and wonderful life experiences.

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

This is my Holiday Edition of IMM because I never got around to it at the end of the year.

I received these great (and super heavy) bookends from B&N. I love them, and they go perfectly with our master bedroom. Between these bookends are our currently reading and borrowed books.

I didn't ask for a ton of books this year, but I did manage to get unwrap a few really great stories! The first two I have read, but in an ARC e-galley so I wanted finished copies for my shelves. The second two are hefty, but I can't wait to dive into them!

I also received a B&N Gift Card that was spent the same day I received it! :) I was able to order 9 books via the Bargain Books section but they are currently on their way to my house via FedEx or UPS so look for them in a later IMM.

My 2012 Reading/Writing/Education Goals

2011-12-31T07:03:00.002-06:00

At the end of each year I evaluate my reading life and set goals for the next year. This year I have struggled a bit because I am having issues balancing reading, writing, life, dreams, and all things in that arena. Mostly this is because I am putting ridiculous standards upon my self so that is my first goal for next year - don't do that!

Here are my reading/writing/education goals for 2012:

Read 125 books for the year. This is down from this year's revised goal of 150 but with the items listed below, I want to give myself a realistic reading goal.

Study/Pass 3 courses related to the CPCU designation. 3 in 2012 and then 3 in 2013 and I will be done! (And yes, I realize insurance courses are about as far away from creative writing as you can get...but that's my career.)

Finish my NaNoWriMo 2011 draft and start edits.

Continue blogging here - but limit the pressure I feel.

Continue with the Presidential Challenge - reading at least 12 biographies.

Focus on reading the books I already own, but are unread.

Friday Five (15)

2011-12-30T09:16:00.000-06:00

I hit my reading goal last night – 150 books read in 2011! I started the year going for 111, but upped it to 150 when I hit that mark. I am still a bit shocked that I managed to read 150 books in one year! For comparison, last year I read 117 books. Crazy!
My 150^th book was Will Grayson, Will Grayson by David Levithan and John Green. And, it has forced me to rework my scheduled post for my Top 10 of 2011…it was that good. I laughed…and then cried…and then snorted with laughter…and then cried some more. So good.
It is supposed to be 63 degrees here inMissouri tomorrow. Seriously…I'm not lying. December 31^st and it is supposed to be 63 degrees. Crazy. We will be outside, soaking it up while we can. I must confess, I miss the snow…I want to see white covering my street and home!
Tomorrow is also NYE! Brett works so my brother and parents are coming over after Sammie's nap. This is the first NYE my dad hasn't worked (he worked at a hotel that hosted a yearly NYE party) in like 25+ years. My mom and brother started a Taco Bell dinner tradition on NYE since dad was always working. So now, that tradition continues since Brett works NYE fairly often. It will be pretty exciting to have my dad join in our festivities. I'm not sure I will make it to see midnight…but I will try.
I am beyond excited about the start of 2012…2011 has been a year of ups and downs, but through it all – love and family has grown. 2012 could be the year of some bigger changes at our house, or not…depending on a few things we will nail down in January. I can't wait to see what the year brings! I look forward to watching my daughter grow and learn, spending another 365 days laughing with my husband and best friend, enjoy each moment with my family and friends, and embrace my life to its fullest!

Review: And Then You Know: New and Selected Poems by Kwame Alexander

2011-12-29T07:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Word of Mouth Books
Release Date: May 1, 2009
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 140
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: A collection of poems written by Kwame Alexander between 1987 and 2009.

My review: I picked up this book after hearing Kwame Alexander at the poetry panel at YALL Fest. He read one of the poems about raising a daughter that caused me to cry - it was that beautiful and spot on. While that poem was my favorite in the book, the other poems were powerful as well.

I was very much into poetry when I was younger but haven't read much in the past few years. This book was a great one to dive back in to the genre. The contents range from love, romance, parenting, family relationships, and political events. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good mix of poetry.

Review: Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx

2011-12-28T07:00:00.002-06:00

Publisher: Scribner
Release Date: September 30, 2005
Format: Paperback
Pages: 64
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: "Ennis del Mar and Jack Twist, two ranch hands, come together when they're working a sheepherder and camp tender one summer on a range above the tree line. At first, sharing an isolated tent, the attraction is casual, inevitable, but something deeper catches them that summer." Both men work hard, marry, and have kids because that's what cowboys do. But over the course of many years and frequent separations this relationship becomes the most important thing in their lives, and they do anything they can to preserve it.

My review: This is what I consider a micro-novel because it is so very short. I was very hesitant to read this because I was afraid I wouldn't connect with the story and/or characters in such a small number of pages. I shouldn't have worried because this story sucked me in from page 1.

The nomadic Western lifestyle is described in such a manor that I felt the isolation - the vast open spaces on Brokeback Mountain. The romance between Ennis and Jack is powerful and deep. They struggle with how to define their relationship and how it will fit within their existing lives. My heart ached for them - for the pain they were feeling by being apart and for the fear that defined them for the shape of their love.

This is a small book, but is a wonderful love story that carries a weight as it could end in tragedy and heartache bigger than each of them. I gave this one three stars only because it was so short. I would have loved to have a full length novel.

Tot Tuesday: The Noisy Counting Book by Susan Schade, Jon Buller

2011-12-27T08:29:00.000-06:00

The Noisy Counting Book by Susan Schade, Jon Buller - This is a great counting book full of a lot of opportunities for making funny animal noises! The reader gets to sound like a frog, mosquito, fish, ducks and a few other animals/insects that live on or near a pond. Sammie loves this one and cracks up each time we read it.

Review: The Bungalow: A Novel by Sarah Jio

2011-12-26T07:27:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Release Date: December 27, 2011
Format: E-Book
Pages: 320
Source: Publisher via NetGalley

From Goodreads: In the summer of 1942, twenty-one-year-old Anne Calloway, newly engaged, sets off to serve in the Army Nurse Corps on the Pacific island of Bora-Bora. More exhilarated by the adventure of a lifetime than she ever was by her predictable fiancé, she is drawn to a mysterious soldier named Westry, and their friendship soon blossoms into hues as deep as the hibiscus flowers native to the island. Under the thatched roof of an abandoned beach bungalow, the two share a private world-until they witness a gruesome crime, Westry is suddenly redeployed, and the idyll vanishes into the winds of war.

A timeless story of enduring passion, The Bungalow chronicles Anne's determination to discover the truth about the twin losses-of life, and of love-that have haunted her for seventy years.

My review: There are some stories that seem to physically move you into their setting, making you forget your surroundings and driving home the emotions of the characters. The Bungalow is that kind of book.

The story begins just when things are getting serious with the war – the men are beginning to volunteer and the women are starting to prepare for rations. Anne is on the cusp of beginning her adult life with her upcoming marriage when the war intrudes, causing her to drastically look at what she wants and where her heart lies. Anne and her best friend set out for a wild adventure on Bora-Bora as nurses.

I found myself feeling the dread and impending sadness at the beginning of the story – knowing what war involves, and the sacrifices that occur. Anne’s inner turmoil flows directly into the outer turmoil of the country and her time on Bora-Bora. The actual images of war are crafted so powerful that I couldn’t help but smell the blood, feel the fear and cry at the horror of it. I was so lost in the world Sarah Jio created, I cried on the airplane I was on, without apology. Westry and Anne’s love story spans decades and yet the romance never faded in my mind – I was still enamored with the story on the last page.

I highly recommend this novel to historical fiction and romance readers – but also for anyone looking for an involving story written that you can get lost in.

Friday Five (14)

2011-12-23T07:39:00.000-06:00

1. I am off today and Monday…four days off of work…life is good!

2. I have decided that 2012 shall be the year I finally learn to crochet. My mom has tried to teach me numerous times but I never stick with it long enough to “get it.” Fingers crossed I can do it, ok?

3. I am only 4 books shy of 150! I am moving right along and really think I should hit that goal in time, unless something drastic changes. I am reading a lot of smaller books to hit 150 and I have noticed one thing: I have A LOT of shorter (250ish or less pages) books that have white spines. Interesting, huh?

4. After writing #3 I realized…it’s almost the END OF 2011! Whoa. Where did the year go?

5. I’ve been working on my Top 10 books for the year post the past few days…it’s really hard to narrow these down. Reading back through the books that I ranked with 5 stars this year has me thinking about re-reading them all! I won’t be posting it until January in case I come across another amazing book in these last days of 2011.

Review: Joop: A Novel of Anne Frank by Richard Lourie

2011-12-22T07:09:00.007-06:00

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date:
Format: Paperback
Pages: 192
Source: PaperbackSwap

From Goodreads: From internationally renowned author and translator Richard Lourie comes this highly acclaimed fictionalized account of the man who may have betrayed Anne Frank. Set in present-day Amsterdam, Joop begins with the startling confession of an old man—a secret he has never told anyone. Transporting readers through the agonizing Nazi takeover of World War II, Joop recounts his role as a boy seeking his father’s praise and desiring to shelter his family. He figures out a way to provide for them, but in doing so, he sets in motion a chain of events that will horrify the entire world.

My review: This is a short book, but one that has sat on my shelves to read for over a year. For some reason it never called to me when selecting my next read. For such a short book it really brings a powerful punch in the deep thoughts category. While most of the story is not directly about Anne Frank and her family’s capture, the story is still relevant to that topic.

This is a fictional tale, but one that provides such a similar perspective to Anne’s diary it could almost be read along side her words. The story is set in modern day, but is told mostly through a retelling of Joop’s childhood so what the reader sees is much of what he experienced as a child. It is that aspect I think these two works compliment each other. You get the same time period told through the eyes of two children on the opposite sides of the line. Neither of them fully understands the depths of the seriousness of their situations, so both are still caught up in normal thoughts of their ages. Both end up having drastic impacts on the world far beyond their little corner.

The powerful thought this book leaves you with is that of desperate times and desperate measures. Not all informers were Jew hating Nazi lovers. Many were starving, dying, and angry. Informing gave them enough food to live another week and strength to beat an illness. The end result of their tattle-tale ways didn’t directly impact them the same as their empty stomach, sick father, or wilting children. It’s a heavy thought – how far would you go in the moments before death?

Review: Red Mist (Kay Scarpetta #19) by Patricia Cornwell

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-06:00

This contains spoilers for the first 18 books in the Kay Scarpetta series. Grandma C – That means you should STOP reading this post! NOW! :)

Publisher: Putnam Adult
Release Date: December 6, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 512
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Determined to find out what happened to her former deputy chief, Jack Fielding, murdered six months earlier, Kay Scarpetta travels to the Georgia Prison for Women, where an inmate has information not only on Fielding, but also on a string of grisly killings. The murder of an Atlanta family years ago, a young woman on death row, and the inexplicable deaths of homeless people as far away as California seem unrelated. But Scarpetta discovers connections that compel her to conclude that what she thought ended with Fielding's death and an attempt on her own life is only the beginning of something far more destructive: a terrifying terrain of conspiracy and potential terrorism on an international scale. And she is the only one who can stop it.

My review: This is my favorite Scarpetta book in the last few years. I finally feel like the feelings from the first handful of books is coming back. The story involved Scarpetta, but also involved things much bigger than her, which I loved. It had felt to me that the past few books were all about Scarpetta, with very little about the cases. That’s what I missed most – her investigating the cases that don’t necessarily have to do directly with her. I wanted the Medical Examiner storyline back and while it’s not back directly in this one – there is much more of that activity occurring.

The relationships between all of the characters continue to stretch, morph, and sever in one case throughout this book. This turmoil has me anticipating the next book already – I can foresee some major relationship drama brewing! I really hope the upcoming drama involves Marino because I am very interested to see where some of the developments that occurred in this story lead.

Tot Tuesday: Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson

2011-12-20T07:56:00.000-06:00

Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson - Jacki at Lovely Little Shelf talks all the time about how much her son, Isaac, loves these "Bear" books. I had made a little mental note to request them from the library, but in the end I didn't have to because Sammie put this one in our bag at the library. She was a big fan of this story, and the illustrations. This book is a great book to prepare toddlers for the change of season to winter. We read it in November so we were able to use it as an example of the upcoming colder temps and snow. It got Sammie really excited for snow - she had to make sure we had her coat, snow pants and boots ready.

Review: Wide Awake by David Levithan

2011-12-19T07:09:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Release Date: September, 9, 2008
Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: In the not-too-impossible-to-imagine future, a gay Jewish man has been elected president of the United States. Until the governor of one state decides that some election results in his state are invalid, awarding crucial votes to the other candidate, and his fellow party member. Thus is the inspiration for couple Jimmy and Duncan to lend their support to their candidate by deciding to take part in the rallies and protests. Along the way comes an exploration of their relationship, their politics, and their country, and sometimes, as they learn, it's more about the journey than it is about reaching the destination.

Only David Levithan could so masterfully and creatively weave together a plot that's both parts political action and reaction, as well as a touching and insightfully-drawn teen love story.

My review: While this book is short, it carries a deep message about respect, equality, love, and personal growth. I was fascinated by the world David Levithan has created within these pages. Of course, the tragic events that occurred to get society to such a wonderful place were horrible – but the happy ending was happening as his story began. To see love and equality ranking so high in government and people’s every day lives was inspiring.

The romance told the story of first love beautifully. The angst over developing your own personality without losing the praise of your boyfriend/girlfriend was perfect. This is probably the thing I loved most about this story – a young man discovering how he is similar, and different than the people around him. Facing his fears, but also drawing a line in the sand with what he can handle facing.

In My Mailbox - December 18, 2011

2011-12-18T07:00:00.003-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

This was a light week in the books received department, which is probably just as well. I am really starting on focusing on reading all of the books I own but haven't read yet. There are SO many...I don't need to keep bringing home more books...and yet, I do. The Hubs thinks I need some sort of intervention for this addiction...but what does he know?

The Secret Life of Prince Charming by Deb Caletti - This was on my Paperback Swap wish list and finally came in.

Supreme Courtship by Christopher Buckley - I ordered this online while ordering a few holiday gifts...It was in the bargain section and only $4!

My Bookish Holiday Wish List

2011-12-17T07:14:00.000-06:00

What bookish things are on your wish list this year? I love seeing what books and other items are on my fellow book lovers so I thought I would share some of the things on mine.

One of these shirts from Out of Print:

These two books:

These bookends from Barnes & Noble:

Friday Five (13)

2011-12-16T06:45:00.000-06:00

1. I have the day off today! I want to shout this from the rooftops, I am that excited! I have a Dr’s appointment in the morning, but otherwise my day is clear and all mine. Brett is at work, Sammie is at daycare! I plan read at least 2 shorter books – marching towards that 150 for the year.

2. Speaking of my goal of 150: I am currently sitting at 140…so I just need 10 books in like 16 days…I think I can do this!

3. I emailed my first writing piece of to my writing/critique group earlier this week. It was both liberating and terrifying all at once! I am terrified they will tell me I suck (and yet, I know these girls won’t say it so rudely) but I am also incredibly proud that I got over my fear to share my words with others. I trust these girls, so I know they will give me helpful suggestions, honest critiques, and a lot of love to help smooth it over.

4. If you are in need of a time killer today (but be prepared for drooling) check out the 25 most beautiful college libraries. I want to live in each one of them!

5. Last night we headed downtown to the Plaza for a wonderful drive. Each year the multi-block shopping/eating area is covered in lights. It looks so beautiful at night. Sammie is in love with all the holiday and seasonal lights in our neighborhood so we thought she would enjoy this drive. She had a blast! Here are a few cell phone photos from our drive.

Review: Dracula in Love by Karen Essex

2011-12-15T07:00:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Grou
Release Date: July 5, 2011
Format: Paperback
Pages: 384
Source: Goodreads Giveaway

From Goodreads: London, 1890. Mina Murray Harker, the rosy-cheeked, quintessentially pure Victorian heroine, becomes Count Dracula’s object of desire. To preserve her chastity, five male “defenders” rush in to rescue her from the vampire’s evil clutches. This is the story we have been told. But now, from Mina’s own pen, we discover a tale more sensual, more devious, and more enthralling than the Victorians could have ever imagined. From the shadowy banks of the river Thames to the wild and windswept Yorkshire coast, Mina vividly recounts the intimate details of what really transpired between her and the Count—the joys and terrors of a passionate affair, as well as her rebellion against her own frightening preternatural powers.

My review: I have been holding off on writing this review – trying to let my thought simmer a bit – because I am just so unsure of the impressions this story left on me. The first third and last third seemed to be the same story, but that second portion was all over the place. When I finished the story it somewhat connected into the plot but I still felt twisted about as a reader.

I enjoyed the writing – the setting was well written and powerful, the romance was steamy and also tender and the characters were all crazy enough to be believable. The portions that took place in an asylum were fascinating on their own, but this is the piece I struggled connecting with the first and last portions of the book. I enjoyed the time the Count and Mina interacted – that relationship was fascinating to me from the beginning. Actually, I remember uttering to myself throughout much of the book – give me more of the paranormal. I have decided that I need to re-read Dracula because I don’t remember much of it and would like to compare the two stories.

If you like the Dracula story then this might be of interest, but if you are looking for a vampire/paranormal read I think you would be better suited with something else.

My First Vlog!

2011-12-13T07:12:00.001-06:00

Instead of the usual Tot Tuesday post on the blog today, I'm doing a little something crazy. Tameka challenged a bunch of my online book clubbers to record a vlog answering 15 questions...so once I figured out how to work the camera on my computer - I joined in on the fun!

This video is completely embarrassing, including an explanation to my "creepy sheet."
I hope you enjoy it...and that you don't find me so ridiculous you never return to this blog. :)

Oh, I mention Jacki in the video - she's one of my favorite gals in the world - so be sure to check out her video too!

Here are the questions Tameka asked us to answer:
#1. What's a nickname only your family calls you?
#2. What's a weird habit of yours?
#3. Do you have any weird phobias?
#4. What's a song you secretly LOVE to blast && belt out when you're alone?
#5. What's one of your biggest pet peeves?
#6. What's one of your nervous habits?
#7. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
#8. What was your first stuffed animal && it's name?
#9. What's the drink you ALWAYS order at starbucks?
#10. What's the beauty rule you preach.. but never ACTUALLY practice?
#11. Which way do you face in the shower?
#12. Do you have any 'weird' body 'skills'?
#13. What's your favorite 'comfort food'/food that's 'bad' but you love to eat it anyways?
#14. What's a phrase or exclamation you always say?
#15. Time to sleep- what are you ACTUALLY wearing?

Review: A Train in Winter: An Extraordinary Story of Women, Friendship, and Resistance in Occupied France by Caroline Moorehead

2011-12-12T07:38:00.000-06:00

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Release Date: November 8, 2011
Format: ARC
Pages: 384
Source: Publisher

From Goodreads: They were teachers, students, chemists, writers, and housewives; a singer at the Paris Opera, a midwife, a dental surgeon. They distributed anti-Nazi leaflets, printed subversive newspapers, hid resisters, secreted Jews to safety, transported weapons, and conveyed clandestine messages. The youngest was a schoolgirl of fifteen who scrawled "V" for victory on the walls of her lycée; the eldest, a farmer's wife in her sixties who harbored escaped Allied airmen. Strangers to each other, hailing from villages and cities from across France, these brave women were united in hatred and defiance of their Nazi occupiers.

Eventually, the Gestapo hunted down 230 of these women and imprisoned them in a fort outside Paris. Separated from home and loved ones, these disparate individuals turned to one another, their common experience conquering divisions of age, education, profession, and class, as they found solace and strength in their deep affection and camaraderie.

In January 1943, they were sent to their final destination: Auschwitz. Only forty-nine would return to France.

A Train in Winter draws on interviews with these women and their families; German, French, and Polish archives; and documents held by World War II resistance organizations to uncover a dark chapter of history that offers an inspiring portrait of ordinary people, of bravery and survival—and of the remarkable, enduring power of female friendship.

My review: I am equally disturbed and fascinated with stories that have come from the Nazi occupation across Europe so my emotions during this book shouldn’t have been much of a surprise, but they were very strong. I had to put the book down a few times because the sadness was unbearable to continue reading.

This book focuses on women in Paris who worked with the Underground Resistance – helping to push back against the German occupation. The stories included single young women, new and young mothers, and women over 40 – but it was the young mother’s that really touched my heart. These women risked everything to make a better world for their children, and most paid the ultimate price in the end. Those that did survive jails, working camps, and death camps came home to children years older than when they left. I ached for them as they spent so many nights away from their children, not knowing if they were alive or not.

These women went through the depths of hell, some for minor things but others for large transgressions including helping persecuted individuals cross into free lands. These pages contain a very moving story – one of deep desire to wake up each morning to see the light of day.

In My Mailbox - December 11, 2011

2011-12-11T06:41:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

This week I received one of the many obscure books I have on my wish list on Paperback Swap.

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany - by William L. Shirer

I used PBS a lot for these odd books that aren't newer releases or books that I don't necessarily have to run out and buy. They slowly come in on PBS once a every few months which works perfectly for me.

This book is huge, but I have been wanting to procure it more and more as my interest in this time period has increased. I am looking forward to reading it in 2012.

Where This Blog Got Its Name

2011-12-10T10:17:00.000-06:00

Back in 2004, Brett and I were enjoying our first holiday season as a married couple when I came across this ornament in a store. See, Brett had been teasing me about how fast I read for pretty much our entire relationship. He reads at a much slower pace than I and always pretended to be upset when I finished yet another book. I came across this ornament and knew I had to buy it for him, because my standard response to him was that we weren't racing to see who could finish first. I always would complain that there are too many books in the world that I want to read and not enough time to read them all.

When I was coming up with name ideas for this blog I was throwing out any name I could think of. It was towards the end of the 2009 and we were putting up our tree and decorations, so I ran across this ornament and the name just flowed from there.

Life is Short. Read Fast.

I love that this blog's name has a history - a tie to who I am. It carries a secret meaning between me and my husband - a wonderful longstanding joke. Each time I see the blog's name, I get a little smile on my face. It's the perfect blend of personal history and reflection of my book obsession. :)

Friday Five (12)

2011-12-09T09:04:00.001-06:00

1.      Brett is working an overtime shift today and his normal shift Saturday so it will be just Sammie and I for most of the weekend. While we enjoy the extra girl time, by the time he comes back home Sunday we will be missing him a lot. I plan to spend the evening tonight after Sammie is in bed reading or writing…I should do something more responsible/adult but I am totally going to splurge giving myself some extra me-time.

2.      It snowed just a tiny bit on Tuesday – just a light dusting, but the neighborhood looked so beautiful. I find snow absolutely gorgeous, and can't wait until we get a really good snow. Sammie wasn't so sure about playing outside in it last year, but I think this year she might really take to it.

3.      We sold our Wii last night via Craigslist and I'm 50% sad and 50% thrilled. We used to spend hours playing before we had Sammie…and even played a lot when she was an infant. Lately, as in the last 9 months, we just haven't been playing it at all. So, we decided to sell it and use that cash to help pay for our front stoop repair so that we don't have to touch our entire "down payment for the next house" fund. I'm a bit sad though, because we did have so many wonderful hours playing it with our friends and family but life moves on I guess.

4.      I have been doing a lot of thinking since my Friday Five last week about my reading, writing, and blogging goals/ambitions for 2012. I am still rolling things around in my head, but I think I have a few new ideas and targets that will help me find a balance.

5.      I really want to hit my updated goal of 150 books for this year. I have read 135, so I need to read 15 in the next 22 days. Think I can do it without giving up sleep? I really hope to finish the two books I am reading now by Saturday. I am planning on spending the rest of the month reading only short books, or books that I have heard are really great…I think this will keep me progressing towards 150. So, no more huge 500+ page books this year – I will save those for 2012.

Review: Perfect Fifths by Megan McCafferty

2011-12-08T07:38:00.000-06:00

This contains spoilers for the first four books in the Jessica Darling series.

Publisher: Crown
Release Date: April 14, 2009
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 258
Source: A Friend

From Goodreads: Captivated readers have followed Jessica through every step and misstep: from her life as a tormented, tart-tongued teenager to her years as a college grad stumbling toward adulthood. Now a young professional in her mid-twenties, Jess is off to a Caribbean wedding. As she rushes to her gate at the airport, she literally runs into her former boyfriend, Marcus Flutie. It’s the first time she's seen him since she reluctantly turned down his marriage proposal three years earlier–and emotions run high.

Marcus and Jessica have both changed dramatically, yet their connection feels as familiar as ever. Is their reunion just a fluke or has fate orchestrated this collision of their lives once again?

Told partly from Marcus’s point of view, Perfect Fifths finally lets readers inside the mind of the one person who’s both troubled and titillated Jessica Darling for years. Expect nothing less than the satisfying conclusion fans have been waiting for, one perfect in its imperfection. . . .

My review: The perfect ending to such the imperfect relationship that is Marcus and Jessica. This book takes place within a small block of time, and yet I felt that I had been riding along with each of them through the last three years since Fourth Comings ended. The conversations were lightening quick, but provided a great detail into their lives, all while retaining that awkwardness one would expect in such a conversation between two ex-lovers.

I loved the direction that Jessica was taking with her life – she finally found her place and connection. Marcus was quirky as ever, but had growth in the direction of normal too. There was one really racy shower scene (but not between who you might be thinking!) that was perfectly placed in the story. The previous range of characters all show up in some form, giving a well-rounded update from the high school days.

Basically, this book concluded the series wonderfully – although, I wouldn’t mind another book, set 5 or so years after Perfect Fifths. It would be wonderful to meet up with all of these characters again.

Review: Fourth Comings by Megan McCafferty

2011-12-07T07:38:00.001-06:00

This contains spoilers for the first three books in the Jessica Darling series.

Publisher: Crown
Release Date: August 7, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 310
Source: A friend

From Goodreads: At first it seems that she’s living the elusive New York City dream. She’s subletting an apartment with her best friend, Hope, working for a magazine that actually utilizes her psychology degree, and still deeply in love with Marcus Flutie, the charismatic addict-turned-Buddhist who first captivated her at sixteen.

Of course, reality is more complicated than dreamy clichés. She and Hope share bunk beds in the “Cupcake”—the girlie pastel bedroom normally occupied by twelve-year-old twins. Their Brooklyn neighborhood is better suited to “breeders,” and she and Hope split the rent with their promiscuous high school pal, Manda, and her “genderqueer boifriend.” Freelancing for an obscure journal can’t put a dent in Jessica’s student loans, so she’s eking out a living by babysitting her young niece and lamenting that she, unlike most of her friends, can’t postpone adulthood by going back to school.

Yet it’s the ever-changing relationship with Marcus that leaves her most unsettled. At the ripe age of twenty-three, he’s just starting his freshman year at Princeton University. Is she ready to give up her imperfect yet invigorating post-college life just because her on-again/off-again soul mate asks her to... marry him?

Jessica has one week to respond to Marcus’s perplexing marriage proposal. During this time, she gains surprising wisdom from unexpected sources, including a popular talk show shrink, a drag queen named Royalle G. Biv, and yes, even her parents. But the most shocking confession concerns two people she thought had nothing to hide: Hope and Marcus.

Will this knowledge inspire Jessica to give up a world of late-night literary soirees, art openings, and downtown drunken karaoke to move back to New Jersey and be with the one man who’s gripped her heart for years? Jessica ponders this and other life choices with her signature snark and hyper-intense insight, making it the most tumultuous and memorable week of her twenty-something life.

My review: The first year of college and the first year after college can be full of new experiences and hard choices – this is exactly what occurs for Marcus and Jessica in this book. I loved how chaotic it was, from Marcus’s notebooks being stolen, to bunk beds in a subletted apartment. That chaos in the physical world was a manifest of what was occurring in Jessica’s mind.

This is another installment full of the quirky and crazy crew that has surrounded Jessica since high school. I loved how different characters would pop into the story, impacting Jessica’s life and her view points – further churning her thoughts and emotions. The proposal is at the forefront of this story, and yet there is so much more to these pages.

Tot Tuesday: Who's in the Garden? by Phillis Gershator

2011-12-06T07:51:00.000-06:00

Who's in the Garden? by Phillis Gershator (Author) and Jill McDonald (Illustrator) – This book has a rhyming text that will have you and your child giggling! At times I stumble over the words which really get Sammie laughing. Sammie loves looking at all the animals that visit a garden as we turn the pages of this book. We talk about the animals and the noises they make while she lifts each page watching the peek-a-boo holes line up for the next animal. A cute book about growing a garden – I hope we can read this one in the future when we have our own garden in the backyard.

Review: Something, Maybe by Elizabeth Scott

2011-12-05T07:03:00.001-06:00

Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: March 24, 2009
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 217
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Everyone thinks their parents are embarrassing, but Hannah knows she's got them all beat. Her dad made a fortune showcasing photos of pretty girls and his party lifestyle all over the Internet, and her mom was once one of her dad's girlfriends and is now the star of her own website. After getting the wrong kind of attention for way too long, Hannah has mastered the art of staying under the radar...and that's just how she likes it.

Of course, that doesn't help her get noticed by her crush. Hannah's sure that gorgeous, sensitive Josh is her soul mate. But trying to get him to notice her; wondering why she suddenly can't stop thinking about another guy, Finn; and dealing with her parents make Hannah feel like she's going crazy. Yet she's determined to make things work out the way she wants—only what she wants may not be what she needs...

My review: I needed a quick, lighter read and selected this book off my bookshelves. It was exactly what I needed – it is a shorter book, but carried my interests for an evening without weighting my heart down.

The plot was rather routine – high school girl without many friends and parents that embarrass her – but involved a little spin. The dad is a rich older man who likes to have a lot of younger women, and her mom is one of those former girls who now gives video chats in her underwear. A twist that provided some laughs within the plot and made for a very interesting high school dating scene.

Take Your Child to a Bookstore

2011-12-04T08:28:00.002-06:00

This is a combo post - In My Mailbox and our participation in Take Your Child to a Bookstore Day! In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands. Take Your Child to a Bookstore Day is pretty self-explanatory...we took Sammie to our local Barnes & Noble. I think she's been once or twice before, but this was the first time she could pick out a book (or two) and play in the kids area.

Sammie had an absolute blast at Barnes and Noble! Before we left she was practically jumping up and down with excitement. I told her she would be able to pick out a book to buy and she said, "And a Mommy book too! And a Daddy book too!" So, we set out to buy each of us a new book - didn't have to twist my arm! :)

Our B&N has a great kids section - Sammie wandered through the books asking us to read some and just flipping through the pages on others. There was a train table in the middle of the area so after we found her books (yes - she had to have two) to buy, I left her and Brett playing there so I could pick out my book. After I was done browsing (SO many options!) I headed back upstairs where Sammie and Brett had moved to the toy section (don't get me started on how this annoys me in a bookstore) where they had a Lego table. Brett went off in search of his new book while Sammie and I built towers and talked colors.

I had to pay alone (usually Sammie loves to hand over the credit card) because she wanted to ride the "escavators" up and down...aka the escalators. She loves those things. She read her two books on drive home, and she also selected them for naptime and bedtime reading.

A few cell phone photos:

Showing off our haul! It was time for nap, so excuse her sleepy face.

We came home with:

Sex with Kings by Eleanor Herman (my purchase)
Feasting on Asphalt: The River Run by Alton Brown (Brett's purchase)
Handy Manny (First Look and Find) by Julia Lobo, Gil DiCicco (Illustrator) (Sammie's purchase)
That's Not My Truck by Fiona Watt (Sammie's purchase)

November 2011 Wrap-Up

2011-12-03T07:42:00.001-06:00

With attempting NaNoWriMo, vacation and the long Thanksgiving weekend all in one month my reading took a big hit. I read 9 books and am at a total of 134 for the year. I’m not sure if I will hit my amended goal of 150 by the end of the year. I want to finish my NaNoWriMo attempt, preferably by the end of the year so I’m not sure reading 16 books is obtainable. We shall see!

What I read in November:

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
Fourth Comings by Megan McCafferty
Perfect Fifths by Megan McCafferty
A Train in Winter by Caroline Moorehead
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Mozart’s Last Aria: A Novel by Matt Rees
The Bungalow by Sarah Jio
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
James Madison by Garry Wills

Friday Five (11)

2011-12-02T07:42:00.000-06:00

1. A most unwelcome cold has settled into my sinuses so I have been struggling through the end of this week. I really hope it decides to disappear over night because I don't want to spend my weekend feeling blah.

2. Today is supposed to be date afternoon for Brett and I. Sammie is at daycare all day, and it's my bi-weekly Friday half day. We are so lame that the only thing we can come up to do is to see Breaking Dawn. I really planned on waiting until it hits Red Box, but we would at least be paying matinee prices this afternoon. Any other date afternoon suggestions that don't cost a ton?

3. Yesterday started the last month of 2011...wait, WHAT? How did this happen people? I can't believe how fast 2011 has flown!

4. With December came the end of NaNoWriMo and I didn't win. I'm a bit bummed, but over all - I'm cool with it. I finished with right around 18,200 words, which is that many more than I had 10/31/2011! I hope to finish this novel by the end of the year - but it may cross over into 2012.

5. Speaking of 2012...I'm doing some deep thinking over my goals for next year with relation to this blog, my writing, and my life in general. Some days I really want to quit this blog to devote my time to writing...and others I want to give up on writing for this blog...while even others I want to quit both and just go back to reading, reading, reading. I feel like I struggle with my deep life personal goals a lot right now - what's worth my time...what's worth the balance struggle. So...I will continue pondering at this time...more to come someday soon.

Review: The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

2011-12-01T07:39:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Scholastic Press
Release Date: October 18, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 404
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

My review: I am not much of an animal person…I mean, I’m cool with other people having animals, but pets aren’t really for me. I wasn’t sure how I would like a novel surrounding horses, but I was pleasantly surprised. I actually cried during the ending…I pretty sure Maggie Stiefvater is the only author that could get me crying over a horse.

The plot was full of characters almost at rock bottom in their life – no money, the landlord’s asking for rent, and the rich boss uses you. It was slightly a depressing beginning – even the setting is gray and murky. But then, the Scorpio Races enter the scene and things perk up like the sand flying off a racing horse’s hoof. Sean and Puck are both in the race for vastly different reasons, but at the bottom of that list they both just want to live and breathe freely – without the money holder’s breathing down their necks.

The relationships Puck and Sean share with their respective horses is deep and powerful – powerful enough it pulled my hard heart to the softer side, and had me cheering for them both to win…and everyone to remain safe. Safety is not an easily accessible thing within the Scorpio Races…and that fact is full of barbaric behavior that increases the severity of the need to win. There is some animal violence in this story, so if you are sensitive to that be aware.

The plot was fast paced, full of suspense, and the ending was unexpected. A good story for even those who aren’t big on the fantasy/magical genre.

Review: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Vintage
Release Date: June 28, 1999
Format: Paperback
Pages: 386
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Shots rang out in Savannah's grandest mansion in the misty, early morning hours of May 2, 1981. Was it murder or self-defense? For nearly a decade, the shooting and its aftermath reverberated throughout this hauntingly beautiful city of moss-hung oaks and shaded squares. John Berendt's sharply observed, suspenseful, and witty narrative reads like a thoroughly engrossing novel, and yet it is a work of nonfiction. Berendt skillfully interweaves a hugely entertaining first-person account of life in this isolated remnant of the Old South with the unpredictable twists and turns of a landmark murder case.

It is a spellbinding story peopled by a gallery of remarkable characters: the well-bred society ladies of the Married Woman's Card Club; the turbulent young redneck gigolo; the hapless recluse who owns a bottle of poison so powerful it could kill every man, woman, and child in Savannah; the aging and profane Southern belle who is the "soul of pampered self-absorption"; the uproariously funny black drag queen; the acerbic and arrogant antiques dealer; the sweet-talking, piano-playing con artist; young blacks dancing the minuet at the black debutante ball; and Minerva, the voodoo priestess who works her magic in the graveyard at midnight. These and other Savannahians act as a Greek chorus, with Berendt revealing the alliances, hostilities, and intrigues that thrive in a town where everyone knows everyone else.

My review: When we decided to take our recent vacation to Savannah, GA so many people recommended this book to me that I ordered it right away. I didn’t start it until a few days before we left for our vacation, but the descriptions within the pages of Savannah had me even anticipating our trip more than ever. After now having been to this wonderful city, I can firmly say that this book fully provides the setting of Savannah – the lush squares around the city, the centuries of history, and the haunted feel of the long ago dead.

The story of this murder is really almost a story of Savannah itself – the city and its citizens are woven through The Mercer House and this grisly death. I have read other true-crime books before, and this one ranks up pretty high. The story wasn’t dry like some non-fiction can be, but instead flowed like life – characters and days leading up to a few bullets and one dead body.

If you are traveling to Savannah this is a must read. If you are fond of true-crime stories or books that ooze that Southern feel I recommend this too.

Tot Tuesday: Baby, I Love You by Karma Wilson, Sam Williams (Illustrator)

2011-11-29T08:29:00.000-06:00

Baby, I Love You by Karma Wilson, Sam Williams (Illustrator) - Soft illustrations show the tenderness of this lovable book. Sammie's favorite part is the cuddly puppy dog on the pages. She gets her stuffed dog so she can cuddle too! My favorite part is the sweet sentiment contained in the text. Sammie always gets an extra long hug after reading this one!

Review: Mozart's Last Aria: A Novel by Matt Rees

2011-11-28T07:40:00.002-06:00

Publisher: Harper Perennial
Release Date: November 1, 2011
Format: Paperback
Pages: 320
Source: Publisher

From Goodreads: Award-winning author Matt Rees takes readers to 18th century Austria, where Mozart’s estranged sister Nannerl stumbles into a world of ambition, conspiracy, and immortal music while attempting to uncover the truth about her brother’s suspicious death. Did Mozart’s life end in murder? Nannerl must brave dire circumstances to find out, running afoul of the secret police, the freemasons, and even the Austrian Emperor himself as she delves into a scandal greater than she had ever imagined. With captivating historical details, compelling characters, and a real-life mystery upon which everything hinges, Rees—the award-winning author of the internationally acclaimed Omar Yussef crime series—writes in the tradition of Irvin Yalom’s When Nietzsche Wept, Louis Bayard’s The Pale Blue Eye, and Phillip Sington’s The Einstein Girl to achieve the very best in historical fiction with Mozart’s Last Aria.

My review: I am seriously drawn to books with fancy dresses on the covers. This is odd for one reason – I hate to wear dresses. I find it interesting that something I despise in my own life attracts me so much in what I read.

This book drew me in from the first page. The setting was rich in detail and color with characters that I connected with immediately. My favorite aspect of historical fiction novels is experiencing a time so long ago - this novel provides that aspect perfectly. I felt like I was dropped into Mozart's family each time I opened the cover - the drama, the romance, and the deep love of creating beautiful music.

I am not very talented in the musical department of life (but I can break out a few notes on a clarinet after 3 years in middle school) but I have always had a fascination with the piano. My Mom, who can play wonderfully, has attempted to teach me numerous times but I just don't catch on. That said, the text describing music, the piano, and the characters falling in love with the notes again and again was beautiful. I could feel their passion and love for the sounds they created.

A powerful story with mystery, romance and amazing music. I highly recommend this novel.

If you would like to read more reviews on this beautiful story, check out the other blogs on the tour:

Thursday, November 3rd: Life In Review
Monday, November 7th: Raging Bibliomania
Tuesday, November 8th: Reviews from the Heart
Wednesday, November 9th: Book Hooked Blog
Tuesday, November 15th: Unabridged Chick
Wednesday, November 16th: The Road to Here
Wednesday, November 23rd: The House of the Seven Tails
Wednesday, December 7th: Reading Lark
Thursday, December 8th: Life in the Thumb
Monday, December 12th: That’s What She Read

Vacation Wrap Up - Thru the iPhone Lens

2011-11-26T07:50:00.002-06:00

Vacation Wrap Up - Savannah, GA

2011-11-25T07:38:00.000-06:00

I am going to take a little detour from the usual Friday Five this week to continue sharing photos and stories from our November vacation to Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. I hope you enjoy these posts, and if not - well check back next week for the return to bookish posts. :)

Tuesday was our last full day of vacation so we crammed it full. It was foggy, which was perfect for the feel of this city! We headed to The Mercer House for a guided tour. This house was famous for years before gunshots, a dead body and the resulting drama brought it into the papers. I started Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil right before leaving and finished it on the plane ride home – this book is a non-fiction account of this grisly death. It made the whole home more intriguing having a detailed account of what happened.

That day for lunch we had probably our most favorite meal at The Olde Pink House in downtown Savannah. It was amazing…and amazingly inexpensive! I had a delicious club sandwich and Brett had a fish sandwich – both were delicious! The house itself is amazing and the staff suggested that we walk around and check it out. So we did, and it is beautiful!

Our final afternoon we drove out to Tybee Island, which I had extremely high hopes for. We were not let down by the beautiful island, but were let down by the fact that apparently the island is closed on Tuesdays. The lighthouse, museum and fort were all closed with signs saying they are closed on Tuesdays – complete bummer. So instead of spending a few hours checking out those sights, we went out to the beach. We watched the rough waves, the foggy sky, the beautiful sand and soaked it all in. We even sat down on a hanging bench swing for a while, but then Brett was being eaten alive by mosquitoes so we headed back to the car.

After such a busy day, I wanted to spend our last night lounging – so we had calzones delivered from a local pizza place, Mellow Mushroom, and ate them on the hotel bed covered in a towel to catch the grease. We watched cheesy TV movies for the rest of the night – it was the perfect ending to our trip!

We had a little trouble getting back home Wednesday because of some weather in Charlotte (our midway point home) so we missed our flight from there to KC. Luckily, they were able to get us on the next flight out a few hours later.

The Olde Pink House

My Words of Thanks

2011-11-24T07:00:00.002-06:00

This year has been full of amazingly rich joys, and a handful of struggles - from Sammie's peanut allergy, continued trips to the Dr, new glasses and eye drops to continue to strengthen her weaker eyelid, to news that my Dad's employer is being purchased and his department being somewhat eliminated, to my Grandpa starting treatment for prostate cancer. Thus, this year my words of thanks might be a bit longer than years past, because we have so very much to appreciate.

I am thankful for our health. Even with her continued struggles this year there have not been any trips to the ER, stays in the local children's hospital, no additional surgeries, or any further issues with Sammie's kidneys. My Grandpa's round of radiation has come and gone without major side affects interrupting his very active personality. He still chasing after Sammie, climbing up and down off the floor at her request. For this we are so very, very thankful! To see my Grandparents able and active with Sammie warms my heart for I had a wonderful relationship with my Great Grandparents as a child, memories which I treasure today.

I am thankful for the togetherness of my family. Seeing them weekly at our Taco Wednesday dinners, randomly showing up on their doorsteps for a visit, and getting together for all the birthday celebrations reminds me how lucky we are to live so close to our loved ones.

I am thankful for the love that exists within the walls of my home. The laughter, the joy, the smiles, the fun, and even the silence when we are rocking our little girl in the middle of a random rough night are all wonderful moments in this home. I married my best friend, for whom I am forever thankful for. Although, Sammie did tell me yesterday that I was her "best friend ever!" so maybe Brett has competition for the top spot in my friendship list. :)

I am also thankful for all you reading this post - I love talking books, I love sharing my life with this wonderful community. Finding people as passionate about reading, books, and writing as I am has given me a connection to people across the country and world that I treasure.

I will now leave you all to spend my day with my loved ones and stuff my belly with the turkey that Brett will have smoked all day long in the backyard. Our entire neighborhood should smell like BBQ by dinnertime. :)

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Vacation Wrap Up - Charleston into Savannah

2011-11-23T07:37:00.001-06:00

Monday morning we headed to Savannah taking the route closest to the coast, which provided a few hours of beautiful views and tree lined roads. We enjoyed the mini road trip complete with a few staples - pop, bugles for Brett and sour patch kids for me. The drive was enjoyable and fun!

After checking into our hotel, we headed out for a few hours of sightseeing and random wandering downtown. We grabbed lunch at Wild Wing Café, which was only an average wing place. We were hoping for great wings, but the sauce was only so-so. Savannah's downtown is a time trap - it is so beautiful with the many squares full of huge trees and monuments you lose track of time. We spent some time in the Colonial Park Cemetery and then headed to dinner. We ate at a place in the strip of old buildings on the river's edge called One-Eyed Lizzy's. It was tasty, but a bit expensive. My biggest complaint is that the lizard decor inside had two eyes...way to stick with the name guys!

We went on a ghost trolley tour through Old Town Trolley’s Ghosts & Gravestones Tour after dinner. It was chilly out, dark and perfect for spooky stories! The ride was a great way to see the city at night and hear haunted tales, even if a few were a bit hokey. We hit an ice cream shop, Savannah Candy Kitchen, on the way back to the hotel...it was delicious but so very large that we were slightly miserable the rest of the night.

The history in Savannah is pretty rich - we really enjoyed reading the monuments around town and headstones in the cemetery.

Johnny Mercer and I

Savannah Fire Station

I love Lafayette - he lived in this house for a short time

Everyone bikes, walks or jogs

River Street at dusk

River Street after dark

Vacation Wrap Up - Charleston, SC Day Two

2011-11-22T07:31:00.000-06:00

The actual Fort was really fascinating...our nerdiness was really showing because we love things like this. To imagine what soldiers lived in back then and what war consisted of was mind blowing. The views from the island were pretty nice too!

Crystal and Adam

Before saying good-bye to Crystal and Adam we had an amazing lunch at Poogan's Porch. The food...we died! The prices...didn't kill us. The portions...huge. Perfect combination! The place was beautiful and homey.

After they headed back home we headed out to a cemetery. Yes, we are those types of crazy people who visit cemeteries while on vacation. This cemetery is the oldest public cemetery still in operation today. The stories within those gates couldn’t be contained in a library full of books. It was fascinating to see the different headstones, mausoleums, and monuments.

That night was our least favorite dinner, for two reasons. One, we headed out to eat at a place I found recommended in my pre-vacation research, Seewee Restaurant, but when we drove up to it I immediately decided we weren’t eating there – it looked unsafe, unclean and creepy. It happened to be closed that Sunday night so we headed back towards Charleston to a BBQ restaurant we saw on the way, Sticky Fingers BBQ. The place was pretty cool inside and the staff had great shirts with fun slogans printed on them. The food – well, my BBQ chicken salad was ok but the ribs and meat Brett had were not good. They were too chewy and overcooked.

Driving back into the city after dark was a beautiful way to see Charleston.

Vacation Wrap Up - Charleston, SC Day 1

2011-11-21T07:07:00.001-06:00

I am going to take a little detour from the usual bookish content this week to share photos and stories from our November vacation to Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. I hope you enjoy these posts, and if not - well check back next week for the return to bookish posts. :)

Our trip to Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA was a whirlwind but we had an absolute blast! The history surrounding these towns, and the South in general, is immense. I'm entirely jealous to have that past as we just don't have that here in the Midwest. In reading the biographies for the Presidential Challenge I have been learning a lot about our country's roots so being in some of the towns mentioned in these book left me in awe. I mean, we were standing on ground the Revolution and Civil War had been fought. Not to mention, ground where the Founding Father's met, lived or visited!

For both cities, we stayed in Hampton Inn’s and both were excellent. They both had hot, continental free breakfasts each morning with convenient hours and good food. You could make your own waffles, eat oatmeal, eggs, boxed cereal and an assortment of muffins, bagels and pastries.

The first day we took a bus tour of Charleston in the morning with Crystal and her husband, Adam who came into town for YALL Fest. It was a great way to see the hot spots around the city in a short time. Our guide was pretty good, and was quite funny when we were involved in a little fender bender with an over zealous Jeep driver.

We had our anniversary dinner at Coast - a funky place in the middle of a barely lit alleyway. It was directly behind our hotel but we circled three times before we thought about entering the creepy alleyway. It was quite humorous...me telling Brett I wouldn't enter an unlit alleyway in downtown KC let alone in a new city and him holding the GPS saying that it has to be there! The food was good and the atmosphere was perfect for us - more funky than normal but not super fancy.

After dinner we headed to Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge to take some night shots...but it was pretty chilly and I hadn't brought the tripod (flying with carry in only has its drawbacks) so the results weren't great. They did have a neat kids park directly under the bridge that was styled to look like the bridge itself. A vacation without Sammie and we are still checking out kid parks...we couldn't help it!

YALL FEST and In My Mailbox

2011-11-20T07:03:00.000-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. It is an opportunity to share any books I have received this week in my mailbox, on my nook or in my hands.

I haven't participated in IMM for awhile primarily because I was on a book buying ban. I'm using this week's IMM to show off books that I had signed at YALL FEST. Most of these I had already on my shelves, but I did purchase a few just for the festival, and two at the actual festival.The bottom two books on this stack were purchased at YALL FEST - one is a signed copy of Will Grayson, Will Grayson for Jacki at Lovely Little Shelf and the second is a signed copy of And Then You Know: New and Selected Poems by Kwame Alexander. He participated on the poetry panel and normally I'm not one for buying books of poetry, but he totally made me (and possibly Brett!) cry. He read one of his poems about raising his daughter and I was darn near sobbing in the audience! After that kind of reaction, I knew I had to buy his book.

YALL FEST was wonderful! Brett even enjoyed the festival and panels - I knew he would, btu he wasn't so sure. We had a great time, but I wish festival administrators would time panels and signings a bit further out. They would have a panel and then 15-20 for signings before the next panel started. This was by far not enough time to stand in line, have your book signed and walk back to the theater a block away. This was true at Decatur Book Festival too, but even more so at this one since it was all focused on one genre. Most people there are going to want to hear and get their books signed by authors in most, if not all, of the panels.

Crystal (one of the online book clubbers) and her husband, Adam drove up to Charleston for a birthday weekend getaway. It was great to attend the festival with friends and we spent some time sightseeing around Charleston together too! Here are some photos from the festival.

Ellen Hopkins and I

Crystal and Ellen Hopkins

Katie Crouch

Saundra Mitchell

Dystopian Panel

Bookish: Bookish Wedding Items

2011-11-19T08:36:00.000-06:00

I just loved these little touches for wedding of the bookish sort. They make me want a second wedding!

Cake Topper:

Instead of a pillow, a hollowed out box is perfect for the ring bearer.

Friday Five (10)

2011-11-18T08:11:00.000-06:00

1. We are back from our wonderful vacation, but we don't go back to work until next week. We are spending these days at home snuggling with Sammie and general laziness. Basically it is perfect!

2. Speaking of vacation, be prepared a week of blog posts recaps - I took a ton of photos! :)

3. The chill has settled in outside and it is getting dark so early. I'm struggling a little at night not to crawl into bed as soon as Sammie is asleep. I'm hoping I can kick this need for an early bedtime soon because it's seriously cutting into my reading time.

4. For my weekly NaNoWriMo update - well, I haven't written in a week. And I'm okay with that. I lost all desire for writing midway through last week with vacation packing and all that. I didn't write at all on vacation. I planned on spending some time these few days off at home writing at Starbucks or Panera, but when it comes down to it - I have no real desire to actually do it. So, I might be done with my project for now - and that's okay with me. I have been missing my reading time since I've been writing instead of reading so I'm going to dive back into my books until the story flows in my mind again.

5. As I am typing this my daughter is playing with two boxes. I swear - we spend $$ on her toys and she cries for me to put away her diapers and wipes so she can play with the boxes. Crazy kids!

Tot Tuesday: Good Night, Sleep Tight: A Book About Bedtime (Hello, Friends!) by Emma Quay, Anna Walker (Illustrator

2011-11-15T08:19:00.000-06:00

Good Night, Sleep Tight: A Book About Bedtime (Hello, Friends!) by Emma Quay, Anna Walker (Illustrator) - This book is just plain adorable! The illustrations are soft and pretty and the text is sweet too. Three friends camping end up sharing a sleeping bag, all while enjoying the stars and night.

This book might convince me to go camping. It was that cute!

Review: James Madison by Garry Wills

2011-11-14T07:06:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Times Books
Release Date: April 2, 2002
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 208
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Renowned historian and social commentator Garry Wills takes a fresh look at the life of James Madison, from his rise to prominence in the colonies through his role in the creation of the Articles of Confederation and the first Constitutional Congress.
Madison oversaw the first foreign war under the constitution, and was forced to adjust some expectations he had formed while drafting that document. Not temperamentally suited to be a wartime President, Madison nonetheless confronted issues such as public morale, internal security, relations with Congress, and the independence of the military. Wills traces Madison's later life during which, like many recent Presidents, he enjoyed greater popularity than while in office.

My review: James Madison is the picture perfect Presidential flip-flopper, but in many ways this was because he grew as a person through his years in politics. He wasn't the best President and many of his own actions were the cause of his lackluster Presidency. He had a few obsessions that he would not let go no matter how many times they failed or floundered. For example, a trade embargo that wasn't influential in forcing the desired outcome yet he would not give it up. His cabinet was full of sparing politicians that despised one another for their opposite party viewpoints. This lead to a lot of conspiracy and drama, rather than any sort of team effort to run the country.

One of the aspects I was most interested in was how Madison was in office when the White House was set aflame. For a building (and now practically the entire DC area) that is so well protected and revered now to be set on fire is such a hard thing for me to grasp. Madison was a strong example (and Dolly too actually) after the fire - he went right back into Washington to lead once again, not allowing the attack to disrupt the government.

This book was a rather brief look at Madison and I kind of wish I would have picked a longer book with a deeper history of his life. This book was Madison in a nutshell where I think I would have liked Madison in detail. I still picked up new information about him, but it wasn’t a vast amount of information.

If you are interested in the Presidential Challenge check out the details here on Lovely Little Shelf.

Books for Babies

2011-11-13T08:23:00.000-06:00

For the next baby shower I am invited to, my gift will look something like this:

Seriously - how awesome is this? I have done something similar for Sammie with buying books for when she is older and storing them for later, but as a baby shower gift - genius!

And this ~almost~ makes me want another baby just so I can take this photo:

Today is YALL Fest!

2011-11-12T08:40:00.001-06:00

That's right wonderful readers, Brett and I are currently at YALL Fest in Charleston, SC! I am thrilled about this vacation, but also about this festival. Anyway, YALL Fest is a new event focused on Young Adult authors. We had our vacation to Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA already planned when I heard about the festival so we just altered our flights a bit so we could attend.

Here is the lineup for Saturday. Be sure to check back in the coming weeks for a recap complete with photos!

10 am JR. YALLFEST

Pseudonymous Bosch (The Name of this Book is Secret)

Lisa Brown and Adele Griffin (Picture the Dead)

Kaleb Nation (Bran Hambric: The Farfield Curse)

Moderator: Katie Crouch (The Magnolia League)

11 am FANGS AMONG FRIENDS

Melissa de la Cruz (Blue Bloods)

Heather Brewer (The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod)

Andrea Cremer (Nightshade)

Margaret Stohl (Beautiful Creatures)

Moderator: Andria Amaral (CCPL Young Adult Dept.)

Noon DEMONS & WITCHES & CASTERS OH MY!

Sarah Rees Brennan (The Demon’s Lexicon)

Victoria Schwab (The Near Witch)

Caitlin Kittredge (The Iron Thorn)

Kami Garcia (Beautiful Creatures)

Moderator: Kim Derting (The Pledge)

1 pm REALITY BITES

David Levithan (Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist)

Holly Goldberg Sloan (I’ll Be There)

Natalie Standiford (Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters)

Moderator: Andrea Cremer (Nightshade)

2 pm UNDEAD POETS SOCIETY

Kwame Alexander (Crush)

Ellen Hopkins (Crank)

Marjory Wentworth (S.C. Poet Laureate)

Moderator: Melissa de la Cruz (Blue Bloods)

3 pm (BALLROOM) PUTTING THE YALL IN YALLFEST

Saundra Mitchell (The Vespertine)

Michelle Hodkin (The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer)

Katie Crouch (The Magnolia League)

Carrie Ryan (The Forest of Hands and Teeth)

Moderator: Beth Revis (Across the Universe)

(CINEMA) INDUSTRY INSIDERS

Sarah Burnes, The Gernert Company

Stephen Barbara, Foundry Literary + Media

Javier Ruescas, YA Editor, Modena Publishing (Spain)

Additonal Panelists TBA

Moderator: Heather Brewer (The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod )

4 pm (BALLROOM) HOLLYAWOOD

Kami Garcia (Beautiful Creatures, in development)

Mark Morgan (producer, Twilight saga)

Isaac Marion (Warm Bodies, in development)

David Levithan (Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist)

Moderator: Kaleb Nation (Kaleb’s Nation)

(CINEMA) DON’T DIS-TOPIAN

Beth Revis (Across the Universe)

Kim Derting (The Pledge)

Diana Peterfreund (Rampant)

Eliot Schrefer (School for Dangerous Girls)

Moderator: Sarah Rees Brennan (The Demon’s Lexicon)

5 pm ZOMBIE ATTACK PANEL — Attendees can win copies of Call of Duty, Modern Warfare 3 and other Call of Duty merchandise.

Dave Stohl (Head of Worldwide Studios, Activision Video Games)

Carrie Ryan (The Forest of Hands and Feet)

Isaac Marion (Warm Bodies, in development)

Moderator: Margaret Stohl (Beautiful Creatures)

6 to 7 pm YA SMACKDOWN.

All 26 writers will be on stage at once to compete in storytelling games – don’t miss your chance to see these bestselling writers struggle with plot twists just like mere mortals, talk some serious smack, and possibly throw things. Tickets are $5 and available at Blue Bicycle Books or right here.

Friday Five (9)

2011-11-11T07:21:00.000-06:00

1. WE LEAVE FOR VACATION TONIGHT!! I am a ~wee~ bit excited about this fact. Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA – get ready…we are coming for you.

2. In connection with the fabulousness that is our trip - we will be celebrating our 7th wedding anniversary on Saturday while we are in Charleston, SC. We have been together for 10 years, married for 7, and yet it seems like just yesterday we were crushing on each other our freshman year of college. :)

Here are a few photos of our special day. Gosh, we look so young in these!

My most favorite wedding photo.

I love this chapel - it was perfection.

Demonstrating my refined style...

Cheers!

3. I made a tough decision regarding my NaNoWriMo novel – I’m leaving the laptop at home while we are gone. I thought about taking it to write on the plane and any downtime while we are gone, but I nixed that idea. We are going on this vacation just Brett and I so I am leaving all things related to a to-do list behind as well. No deadlines, daily word counts to distract me from fun experiences and quality time with my husband. I am about a day ahead in my word count, so I will come back around 5 days behind. If I catch up during the remaining days that will be great but if I don’t – that’s ok too.

Since I won’t be writing on the plane rides, I am bringing along my nook. I am also bringing about 10 books with me for YALLFEST, but I think I’m going to tackle a few of the e-galleys I have downloaded from NetGalley recently that I haven’t gotten to yet.

4. If you follow me on twitter you may have saw my multiple tweets about this but you are going to see it again. One of my friends, Jessica, from my online book club just landed an agent for her book!!! This is HUGE in the road for publication and I couldn’t be more proud! She has worked incredibly hard on this novel. When (not IF, my friends, WHEN) she is published I will be hosting about 100 giveaways and pimping her book out via all social media possible because I have no doubt that it will be amazeballs! For now - she is doing a great giveaway in celebration - check it out!

5. It’s been a rough week in our household – this past weekend involved a trip to Urgent Care and the pharmacy well after Sammie’s bedtime due to double ear and double eye infections. Then Tuesday night involved multiple rounds of her throwing up, which lead to a night with little sleep for all of us and Brett sleeping on the floor in her room. I think we are finally moving past all these illnesses and issues so we can catch up on our sleep again.

Review: It by Stephen King

2011-11-10T07:00:00.031-06:00

Publisher: Signet
Release Date: August 7, 1987
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 1090
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: A promise made twenty-eight years ago calls seven adults to reunite in Derry, Maine, where as teenagers they battled an evil creature that preyed on the city's children. Unsure that their Losers Club had vanquished the creature all those years ago, the seven had vowed to return to Derry if IT should ever reappear. Now, children are being murdered again and their repressed memories of that summer return as they prepare to do battle with the monster lurking in Derry's sewers once more.(

My review: Before I start my actual review, I have a confession to share. I have a ridiculous fear of drains - shower drains, sink drains, toilets, pool drains, you name it. I still refuse to shower in a stall shower and instead use our tub/shower combo so I'm at the opposite end from the drain. It's stupid and silly, but this fear lingers on.

All of that to say, if I would have realized that this book revolved around sewers and drains I never would have read it. One of the amazing ladies on my online book club LOVES Stephen King. It exceeds love...there aren't any words to properly describe her feelings for him. When she suggested we do a group read of IT for Halloween, I decided to give this enormous book a chance. I hadn't really heard much about it aside from the clown piece so I went in blind.

The first 250 pages were S-L-O-W and had it not been for our group read looming over me, I would have totally given up on it. Nothing was grabbing me, the text was full of back story and things were pretty confusing and choppy. Right about page 300 or so, I was hooked. This story is centered on the event that changed these children into adults - the summer they were forced to grow up in a most uncommon way.

The story twists from present to past, intertwined with the events 28 years ago and now. While the book and story didn't scare me directly, it was completely creepy and unnerving. I did however get totally spooked about the pipes/drains situation. Not what most people get scared over, but I guess I'm not most people, huh?

Stephen King's characters are written so deep and so thoroughly that you find yourself either intensely rooting for them or passionately hating them. It's beautiful in a manor; how he can illicit such strong emotions on both ends of the spectrum within the same novel.

If you are looking for a spooky, long and deep read - this story is for you!

Review: Keeping the Moon by Sarah Dessen

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Publisher: Puffin
Release Date: September 1, 1999
Format: Paperback
Pages: 228
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads: Colie expects the worst when she's sent to spend the summer with her eccentric aunt Mira while her mother, queen of the television infomercial, tours Europe. Always an outcast -- first for being fat and then for being "easy" -- Colie has no friends at home and doesn't expect to find any in Colby, North Carolina. But then she lands a job at the Last Chance Cafe and meets fellow waitresses Morgan and Isabel, best friends with a loving yet volatile relationship. Wacky yet wise, Morgan and Isabel help Colie see herself in a new way and realize the potential that has been there all along.

My review: I love Sarah Dessen – her books are beautiful, her stories are tender but deep, and she is hysterical on twitter. Seriously, she tweets about books, but also a lot about her daughter which make me giggle.

This was one of her shorter novels, but still packed an adorable story. The thing I enjoy most of her novels is that many of the theme carry an underlying theme or two – this story focusing on weight and embracing your personality. The characters were quirky, but not too extreme; each having enough relatable characteristics to engage the reader. I am usually a sucker for the boy-love interests in Sarah’s books, but this one just didn’t capture me the way others have.

Still a great story, but a little on the short side – I wish it could have been longer, with a touch more in depth.

Tot Tuesday: Whose Toes are Those? by Jabari Asim

2011-11-08T08:28:00.000-06:00

Whose Toes are Those? by Jabari Asim - I love this book if nothing else because the baby is not Caucasian. Here in the Midwest suburb diversity is slim but we want to expose Sammie has much as possible and teach her to cherish all cultures and people. This book is a great way to expose her without making a big deal out of it. We bought her a non-Caucasian baby doll for the same reason.

This is also an adorable story of those little baby toes that almost everyone loves to kiss and play with. It includes a variation of "This Little Piggy" that I love!