The saying "things happen for a reason" is a mantra that I live by. This last week has done nothing more than solidify this notion for me. Here is why:
1) I met someone within the last week and upon introduction I had this nagging feeling I should know who this person was. Don't you just hate it when you have that nagging, annoying voice in the back of your mind that is trying to jump start your brain into recognition? Me too! It is only today that I FINALLY made the connection. I now know why I would know this person. The best part about the whole thing...the impression I got of this person without even meeting them was spot on. I love when that happens.
2) This person has assisted me with a book issue. I have always had The Shining by Stephen King on my to-read list. I have even gotten as far as taking it off the book shelf, putting it in the read-soon pile, and placed a bookmark in it. I have not, however, attempted to start reading it as of yet. My rationale is that I don't really want to have the bejesus scared out of me at this current juncture in my life. However, this person shared the some what skewed logic that when is a better time to read The Shining than in the summer time when the days are longer...thus less night time to add to the bejesus scaring. This logic worked for me. I have now moved the book to the front of the list. As a matter of fact it is next on my list after my current book.
The other day I was looking at EW.com and what flashed across the screen? Doctor Sleep by Stephen King; which happens to be the sequel to The Shining. Me, personally, I can not say no to a sequel. I love when the story goes on. I like that it is out now, as The Shining was first published in 1977, and that I have taken so long to read The Shining because now it will be fresh in my head.
3) I have recently learned a great deal about a certain disease process, because I was being a good nurse and providing necessary education. This disease process is rather prevalent; with certain members of my family being no exception. One particular person has recently been diagnosed and felt lost. So who do they turn to? Why their friendly, neighborhood, nurse of course. But I actually had a vast array of information to provide them on the spot and did not have to do research at that time, thus delaying their education process.
So I am feeling that things happen for a reason. Certain activities, people, and/or actions happen at the time they are supposed to. What you have to learn from these scenarios is not always clear, but still meant to be. I have not always be on board with the notion of fate; and still do not accept it outright. I think that certain things are set out to act as a catalyst for other actions. However, the trajectory in which these catalysts start these actions is completely up to the individual. We get a rough sketching ... an outline, and we fill in the details.
I now have a new friend, whom I had thought when first learning of this person would be a great person to meet, and this friend has helped me to push one of the greats to the top of my reading list. I was able to educate the way I feel all medical personnel should. I am not entirely sure what I am supposed to learn from these experiences just yet but I do know it is funny how things work out, or have so far.
For all of you Stephen King fans, especially those who have read The Shining, I hope you enjoy!
~Judi
Friday, June 14, 2013
Friday, June 7, 2013
Love is in the Air
My long time friend is getting married this weekend (one of two weddings that I am in this summer) and so I have love on the brain, naturally! The two books that I am currently reading play right into this. I mentioned in an earlier post that I am reading a collection of love letters. Recently I have been thinking along the lines of privacy.
These letters are amazing to read. The language, sensitivity, blatancy, and sheer compassion are more than I could imagine from any one person today. Victor Hugo wrote a love letter to Adele Foueher that is so dynamic that I fear for the love, intellect, and veracity of a single member of the male gender today. To be so honest and to bare his soul like he did was awe inspiring; which leads me back to the issue of privacy.
Have you ever written something to someone that is a "for your eyes only?" That is essentially what these letters were meant to be. Really it is just happenstance that we are reading them today. Mostly because the receiver of the letters felt compelled to keep them. The topics of discussion in each of these letters range vastly; from unrelenting love and sexual frustration (that it appears warrants the threat of suicide), to the curiosity as to why such a love is merited. It is an interesting anthology but makes me wonder what these people would think of their nearest and dearest words being brought to light for all to see. I don't believe I would enjoy that at all. However, I am very grateful for the opportunity of insight that is afforded by this collection. I know it is hypocritical that I do not mind reading someone else's private thoughts but do not really want to have others read mine. What can I say? I am just not as interesting as the great literary composers that make up this collection.
The second book I am reading is a new author for me: Sophie Kinsella. The book is I've Got Your Number. I am enjoying it so far. I like the character voices that Kinsella presents. There are times that I am reading think "I would totally say that" and give a giggle. The book is funny and just the right amount of fantastical notion that I find myself chuckling a lot in this book. Just a bit of background on the book. Poppy Wyatt is engaged, is at a get together with her friends when a fire alarm is pulled. In all the commotion her engagement ring (a family heirloom) and cellphone go missing. Poppy happens upon a discarded cellphone and decides finders-keepers. This way now the hotel can get in touch if they happen upon the ring. It turns out the phone belongs to someone working for Sam Roxton, who allows her to keep the phone and even tries to help her with her plot to keep these actions away from her fiance (who happens to be one of the genius elite). Quite enjoyable so far. I am about a quarter of the way through and highly recommend it.
Back to privacy again. Poppy is in charge of forwarding messages and emails to Sam that happen to come to the phone. Of course, some of these emails are read by Poppy and lead to her meddling into his professional and personal life. It is affording some insight into Sam's life that Poppy just doesn't understand and does not mind letting him know his priorities are skewed a bit. It all leads to an entertaining mix.
Enjoy!
These letters are amazing to read. The language, sensitivity, blatancy, and sheer compassion are more than I could imagine from any one person today. Victor Hugo wrote a love letter to Adele Foueher that is so dynamic that I fear for the love, intellect, and veracity of a single member of the male gender today. To be so honest and to bare his soul like he did was awe inspiring; which leads me back to the issue of privacy.
Have you ever written something to someone that is a "for your eyes only?" That is essentially what these letters were meant to be. Really it is just happenstance that we are reading them today. Mostly because the receiver of the letters felt compelled to keep them. The topics of discussion in each of these letters range vastly; from unrelenting love and sexual frustration (that it appears warrants the threat of suicide), to the curiosity as to why such a love is merited. It is an interesting anthology but makes me wonder what these people would think of their nearest and dearest words being brought to light for all to see. I don't believe I would enjoy that at all. However, I am very grateful for the opportunity of insight that is afforded by this collection. I know it is hypocritical that I do not mind reading someone else's private thoughts but do not really want to have others read mine. What can I say? I am just not as interesting as the great literary composers that make up this collection.
The second book I am reading is a new author for me: Sophie Kinsella. The book is I've Got Your Number. I am enjoying it so far. I like the character voices that Kinsella presents. There are times that I am reading think "I would totally say that" and give a giggle. The book is funny and just the right amount of fantastical notion that I find myself chuckling a lot in this book. Just a bit of background on the book. Poppy Wyatt is engaged, is at a get together with her friends when a fire alarm is pulled. In all the commotion her engagement ring (a family heirloom) and cellphone go missing. Poppy happens upon a discarded cellphone and decides finders-keepers. This way now the hotel can get in touch if they happen upon the ring. It turns out the phone belongs to someone working for Sam Roxton, who allows her to keep the phone and even tries to help her with her plot to keep these actions away from her fiance (who happens to be one of the genius elite). Quite enjoyable so far. I am about a quarter of the way through and highly recommend it.
Back to privacy again. Poppy is in charge of forwarding messages and emails to Sam that happen to come to the phone. Of course, some of these emails are read by Poppy and lead to her meddling into his professional and personal life. It is affording some insight into Sam's life that Poppy just doesn't understand and does not mind letting him know his priorities are skewed a bit. It all leads to an entertaining mix.
Enjoy!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
People just don't speak like that anymore
I have recently finished two books and have an on-going book that I am reading in addition to my main book. Let's start with the two I have finished, 1) The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and 2) Frost Burned by Patricia Briggs.
1) The hype behind this book has been prevalent for several years. We were encouraged to read it in high school. I understand that it was giving us a unique view into the lifestyle of some during the dry movement, AKA Prohibition. I understand it was showing the romantic notions of a man, while another man sat back and did not entirely understand the rationale behind these romantic notions. Truthfully, Daisy was an infuriating person. She basically was bored, married money, things happen along the way, is bored again, revisits an old flame, performs a heinous action, and runs back to the security blanket. She was a yo-yo who basically tried to take the least guilty way out of life's stressors. Gatsby was an interesting character. Basically his base characteristics helped to mold who he is but the driving force was created by the grandiose ideals surrounding a single person, who and what that person can be to him and his life; which were predicated on who that person was at a younger stage in life. Another driving force was based on the grandiose ideals presented to Gatsby by a bootlegger who saw a driven individual who could be viewed as a tool to assist in advancing his position and stature as the kingpin he intended to be. The theme I felt was present were grandiose notions (as if you couldn't tell) and ultimately lead to a farce; which was perhaps the saddest point of all. In the end, only those who seemed to appreciate who and what Gatsby was were present (i.e. the extensive book collection and the dedication it took to do so, the honest romanticism that lead to his open nature, loyalty-both family and employment related). This broke down to father, neighbor, employees, and "Owl eyes;" further solidifying the farce, and thus the sad truth, that was his life. Even the great love could not be bothered; who was being protected by this sacrifice on behalf of Gatsby and the lie Tom (Daisy's husband) needed to create to feel adequate and as though he belonged in the same "weight-class" as Gatsby.
Overall, the plot was a lie based on a lie based on a lie, in which Carraway was the only one able to remove the rose-colored glasses and see life for what it really was at that time. For such a short book it was quite intriguing.
2) I love the Mercy Thompson books and this one was no exception. Quick synopsis: Mercy Thompson-Hauptman, mate of wereworlf Alpha Adam Hauptman, is a walker and shapeshifter. Her entire pack is kidnapped, save for one, and she needs to keep her step-daughter, pack members, pack member's mates, and her own mate safe by trying to use metaphysical activities to strengthen the pack, locate the pack, find out who orchestrated the kidnapping, why, and how. She uses the help of vampire friend Stefan, which leads to her involvement with the vampire seethe that doesn't really care for her or Stefan.
The development of characters just keeps getting better and better. I really enjoyed the peek into Adam's head this time. The development of Mercy and Adam's relationship, and how that effects who they are and what abilities they have to contribute to the survival of their pack, keep escalating and surprise me each time. My only complaint is that things are usually wrapped up more nicely than this one was. There were hints to the Marrock's involvement and a greater master plan, however 3/4 of the way through the book this aspect was just dropped. And Samuel's involvement and disappearance was never touched on after the explanation that this had happened in the beginning of the book. And what about Stefan, what is happening with him? I suppose this could have been purposeful to set the base for another book. Even with the absence of a nice neat ending I still really enjoyed this book.
The book that is on-going is called The World's Greatest Love Letters compiled by Michael Kelahan. I originally picked up the book, opened it randomly, and found a love letter by Edgar Allen Poe (who happens to be a favorite of mine). I have been slowly working my way through these letters. Between this book and the Great Gatsby I have realized how large of a change the English language has made. People just don't speak like that anymore. Victor Hugo (another favorite) wrote to Adele Foucher,
"Since the soul is superior to the body, to which it is united, it would remain on earth in painful loneliness where it nor for the fact that among other human souls it may choose a companion- a partner in the trials of life and in the joys of the hereafter. When two souls, which have sought each other amid the crowd, find they have met, realize that they belong to each other, and comprehend this affinity, then it is that a union has been brought about, as pure and aspiring as themselves- a union which begun on earth will be consummated in heaven.
This union is love- genuine, complete love, such as few men can imagine. It is a love which is religion, since the object of love is regarded as a divinity, with all the devotion and affection which turn the greatest sacrifices into the sublimest joys. Such a love you inspire in me..."
F. Scott Fitzgerald quoted the following in the Great Gatsby:
"He smiled understandingly-much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced--or seemed to face--the whole eternal world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey."
I repeat, people just don't speak like this anymore. It sort of saddens me that people have, to quote Chaucer, "lay rest the grace in my [or their when indicating society as a whole] tongue." When really trying the English language can be very beautiful, moving, and used as a great tool and/or weapon. Unfortunately, we've gotten complacent in our laziness with regards to the English language.
1) The hype behind this book has been prevalent for several years. We were encouraged to read it in high school. I understand that it was giving us a unique view into the lifestyle of some during the dry movement, AKA Prohibition. I understand it was showing the romantic notions of a man, while another man sat back and did not entirely understand the rationale behind these romantic notions. Truthfully, Daisy was an infuriating person. She basically was bored, married money, things happen along the way, is bored again, revisits an old flame, performs a heinous action, and runs back to the security blanket. She was a yo-yo who basically tried to take the least guilty way out of life's stressors. Gatsby was an interesting character. Basically his base characteristics helped to mold who he is but the driving force was created by the grandiose ideals surrounding a single person, who and what that person can be to him and his life; which were predicated on who that person was at a younger stage in life. Another driving force was based on the grandiose ideals presented to Gatsby by a bootlegger who saw a driven individual who could be viewed as a tool to assist in advancing his position and stature as the kingpin he intended to be. The theme I felt was present were grandiose notions (as if you couldn't tell) and ultimately lead to a farce; which was perhaps the saddest point of all. In the end, only those who seemed to appreciate who and what Gatsby was were present (i.e. the extensive book collection and the dedication it took to do so, the honest romanticism that lead to his open nature, loyalty-both family and employment related). This broke down to father, neighbor, employees, and "Owl eyes;" further solidifying the farce, and thus the sad truth, that was his life. Even the great love could not be bothered; who was being protected by this sacrifice on behalf of Gatsby and the lie Tom (Daisy's husband) needed to create to feel adequate and as though he belonged in the same "weight-class" as Gatsby.
Overall, the plot was a lie based on a lie based on a lie, in which Carraway was the only one able to remove the rose-colored glasses and see life for what it really was at that time. For such a short book it was quite intriguing.
2) I love the Mercy Thompson books and this one was no exception. Quick synopsis: Mercy Thompson-Hauptman, mate of wereworlf Alpha Adam Hauptman, is a walker and shapeshifter. Her entire pack is kidnapped, save for one, and she needs to keep her step-daughter, pack members, pack member's mates, and her own mate safe by trying to use metaphysical activities to strengthen the pack, locate the pack, find out who orchestrated the kidnapping, why, and how. She uses the help of vampire friend Stefan, which leads to her involvement with the vampire seethe that doesn't really care for her or Stefan.
The development of characters just keeps getting better and better. I really enjoyed the peek into Adam's head this time. The development of Mercy and Adam's relationship, and how that effects who they are and what abilities they have to contribute to the survival of their pack, keep escalating and surprise me each time. My only complaint is that things are usually wrapped up more nicely than this one was. There were hints to the Marrock's involvement and a greater master plan, however 3/4 of the way through the book this aspect was just dropped. And Samuel's involvement and disappearance was never touched on after the explanation that this had happened in the beginning of the book. And what about Stefan, what is happening with him? I suppose this could have been purposeful to set the base for another book. Even with the absence of a nice neat ending I still really enjoyed this book.
The book that is on-going is called The World's Greatest Love Letters compiled by Michael Kelahan. I originally picked up the book, opened it randomly, and found a love letter by Edgar Allen Poe (who happens to be a favorite of mine). I have been slowly working my way through these letters. Between this book and the Great Gatsby I have realized how large of a change the English language has made. People just don't speak like that anymore. Victor Hugo (another favorite) wrote to Adele Foucher,
"Since the soul is superior to the body, to which it is united, it would remain on earth in painful loneliness where it nor for the fact that among other human souls it may choose a companion- a partner in the trials of life and in the joys of the hereafter. When two souls, which have sought each other amid the crowd, find they have met, realize that they belong to each other, and comprehend this affinity, then it is that a union has been brought about, as pure and aspiring as themselves- a union which begun on earth will be consummated in heaven.
This union is love- genuine, complete love, such as few men can imagine. It is a love which is religion, since the object of love is regarded as a divinity, with all the devotion and affection which turn the greatest sacrifices into the sublimest joys. Such a love you inspire in me..."
F. Scott Fitzgerald quoted the following in the Great Gatsby:
"He smiled understandingly-much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced--or seemed to face--the whole eternal world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey."
I repeat, people just don't speak like this anymore. It sort of saddens me that people have, to quote Chaucer, "lay rest the grace in my [or their when indicating society as a whole] tongue." When really trying the English language can be very beautiful, moving, and used as a great tool and/or weapon. Unfortunately, we've gotten complacent in our laziness with regards to the English language.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
The Single Girl
I am a single girl and while it does have its let downs occasionally I can't say I all together hate it. I love that I can just up and decide to go on a trip somewhere and don't have to check in with anyone. I love that I don't have to argue with someone about helping with the domestic chores. I can leave work and meet up with some co-workers or friends for a drink and again...no checking in or asking them to tag along. I can be as candid as I want about the dating world and do not have to worry about offending anyone. I am a happily, single girl! So why do people not believe me?
When I talk about my summer plans I bring up the fact that I am a bridesmaid in two weddings. I then get asked if I have kids? Nope! Married? Nope? Boyfriend? Nope! Then I get the look, and I know you know which look I am talking about. This comes from my family and friends of the family. When I see the look I give a huge, inward sigh because I know what's coming next.
Subject lines: biological clock, level at which my standards are, body images, mustn't be so picky...
It is time consuming, emotionally draining, and just plain frustrating. Just because I am single does not mean I am miserable!
I have been talking with my friends about this recently, trying to gain some insight and this is what we've come up with:
1) Our generation just doesn't make sense to them with regards to dating. Very few in my family have gone to college and have a career, especially the girls in our family. It is expected that I should have multiple children by this time in my life because, hey, they have. Things are a little different now. It takes time to go to school and establish a career, so I don't know what to tell you!
2) Guys are not aging accordingly! I swear to you they do not mature in the right direction, they are getting younger. I almost have to pull an Anna Nicole just to get a guy who is mature enough to be out of his mother's basement, can tell me any current even, has a job, doesn't have at least four baby-mamas, and doesn't have permanent damage to the thumb joint from excessive "gaming."
3) The "good ones" don't get thrown back. The sea of guys is thinning out because when a girl has found a keeper she doesn't cut him loose and hope for something better. We've been screwed over enough times in the dating world that when we see that glimmer of hope and possibility we turn into steel bear traps.
4) The media has ruined us! We grew up watching the Disney movies, reading Nicholas Sparks, and watching the Victoria's Secret models strut their stuff. So we are hopeful that someday our prince will come, we will find that someone who says to us "I want to do this because I want you. I want all of you, forever, you and me, everyday!" And we even think we have to look like those 15 feet tall, stick thin, freakishly pretty girls walking down that catwalk in order to get one of the good guys. Then to make matters worse Fifty Shades of Grey comes out.
So now I have to be 15 feet tall, stick thin, freakishly pretty, have the ability to balance on 6 foot tall stilettos, have a large dowry that only my father the King could provide, and have the ability to hold my own in the "red room of pain." And lets face it Nicholas Sparks is a one of a kind, that guy just doesn't exist. Unfortunately, guys just don't speak like that anymore.
I am 5'2'', curvy, will break my ankle just looking at the shoes those models wear, have to work for a living, and some of the things that go on in the "red room of pain" freaks me out a little. You can't really explain these things to your Great Aunt Ida and telling your mom to either throw out the biological clock so she doesn't hear it anymore or adopt another child seems a bit disrespectful so here I am; the single girl!
When I talk about my summer plans I bring up the fact that I am a bridesmaid in two weddings. I then get asked if I have kids? Nope! Married? Nope? Boyfriend? Nope! Then I get the look, and I know you know which look I am talking about. This comes from my family and friends of the family. When I see the look I give a huge, inward sigh because I know what's coming next.
Subject lines: biological clock, level at which my standards are, body images, mustn't be so picky...
It is time consuming, emotionally draining, and just plain frustrating. Just because I am single does not mean I am miserable!
I have been talking with my friends about this recently, trying to gain some insight and this is what we've come up with:
1) Our generation just doesn't make sense to them with regards to dating. Very few in my family have gone to college and have a career, especially the girls in our family. It is expected that I should have multiple children by this time in my life because, hey, they have. Things are a little different now. It takes time to go to school and establish a career, so I don't know what to tell you!
2) Guys are not aging accordingly! I swear to you they do not mature in the right direction, they are getting younger. I almost have to pull an Anna Nicole just to get a guy who is mature enough to be out of his mother's basement, can tell me any current even, has a job, doesn't have at least four baby-mamas, and doesn't have permanent damage to the thumb joint from excessive "gaming."
3) The "good ones" don't get thrown back. The sea of guys is thinning out because when a girl has found a keeper she doesn't cut him loose and hope for something better. We've been screwed over enough times in the dating world that when we see that glimmer of hope and possibility we turn into steel bear traps.
4) The media has ruined us! We grew up watching the Disney movies, reading Nicholas Sparks, and watching the Victoria's Secret models strut their stuff. So we are hopeful that someday our prince will come, we will find that someone who says to us "I want to do this because I want you. I want all of you, forever, you and me, everyday!" And we even think we have to look like those 15 feet tall, stick thin, freakishly pretty girls walking down that catwalk in order to get one of the good guys. Then to make matters worse Fifty Shades of Grey comes out.
So now I have to be 15 feet tall, stick thin, freakishly pretty, have the ability to balance on 6 foot tall stilettos, have a large dowry that only my father the King could provide, and have the ability to hold my own in the "red room of pain." And lets face it Nicholas Sparks is a one of a kind, that guy just doesn't exist. Unfortunately, guys just don't speak like that anymore.
I am 5'2'', curvy, will break my ankle just looking at the shoes those models wear, have to work for a living, and some of the things that go on in the "red room of pain" freaks me out a little. You can't really explain these things to your Great Aunt Ida and telling your mom to either throw out the biological clock so she doesn't hear it anymore or adopt another child seems a bit disrespectful so here I am; the single girl!
Friday, April 19, 2013
So...It's been a while...
I had intended on making this blog all about books. I have taken on a bit more than I could chew with regards to intending to keep this blog active and start GRADUATE SCHOOL! Yeah, I know, a little over ambitious. While reading has not fallen by the wayside for me, not sure I would even know how to set it aside for long periods of time, I have been neglecting my blog (so shameful). I still think I will address books but would also like to treat this blog as many have intended them to be...sharing my views in general.
Some of the oddest things happen to me. I am not sure if I just happen to have a welcome sign that hovers over my head but fruitcakes of the world happen to gather near me. To set the tone for you let me share an example. While I was going through nursing school I worked at a gas station. My shift often equated to the night shift, which was actually kind of perfect because I got paid to study on some nights. Anyway, I was working and a guy who was probably in his 50's comes in. Now we had a radio playing most times and Queen happened to be playing at this particular time. The song..."Fat bottom girls." Now I am a curvy chic, no doubt about it, and happened to have gained some weight during nursing school; only adding to my curve factor. Where do I add on the pounds...hips and thighs of course!
So this stranger gathers his items throughout the store, comes to the counter, smiles at me and says "you know they made this song about girls like you." Are you serious? Who says things like this to any girl, let alone a perfect stranger? All I could do was stare at him. I eventually smiled at him, totaled his purchase, and sent him on his way. It has been nearly 8 years since this has happened to me but something like that just sort of sticks with a girl.
The incident that has prompted me to write this is a complete, random, act of craziness. I was at Barnes and Noble, surprise-surprise, and some guy I have never seen before (as a side note I was in the wedding isle because I am in two weddings this summer and was asked by one of the brides to grab a book for her while I was there) came up to me and said "you know marriage isn't a guarantee, if you are looking for that go get a car battery." WHAT? Who says things like this to people they don't know? I gave him an odd look that said if you don't make any sudden movements maybe the crazy person wouldn't startle and charge. He chuckled and walked away. One of the employees was stocking the shelves down that isle and turned to me and asked if he was a friend of mine. I shook my head and said "definitely not." She looked doubtful but what can you do? Most people do not just randomly walk up to you and say such odd things.
So my question about this situation is: is this a form of turrets, regrets, experience, or just crazy guy stuff? I suppose it is the unpredictable that adds a little spice to life. However, I am not sure I want the fruitcake spice quite so strongly mixed with my portion of life.
As a book note, I am currently reading the Anita Blake Series by Laurell K. Hamilton. The first two books did not really grab my attention, mostly because Anita Blake, the protagonist of the story, was sort of annoying. To be honest it is the supporting characters she comes in contact with that mold who she "really is" or "should be." I am currently reading book #12 and things have gone in a slightly different direction, not necessarily bad just different. I am glad I took my friend's encouragement into consideration and kept reading the books, because book #3 really starts to show the series for what it is. Maybe this is where Hamilton hit her stride or just really came into her voice. Perhaps she was not sure where she wanted Anita's character to go or what she should develop into. Either way the 3rd book started to feel more solid and the story has built from there.
For those who encounter the odd on a regular basis, good luck! I hope you get a lot of spice in your life for enduring such goings on. As far as books go...enjoy!
Some of the oddest things happen to me. I am not sure if I just happen to have a welcome sign that hovers over my head but fruitcakes of the world happen to gather near me. To set the tone for you let me share an example. While I was going through nursing school I worked at a gas station. My shift often equated to the night shift, which was actually kind of perfect because I got paid to study on some nights. Anyway, I was working and a guy who was probably in his 50's comes in. Now we had a radio playing most times and Queen happened to be playing at this particular time. The song..."Fat bottom girls." Now I am a curvy chic, no doubt about it, and happened to have gained some weight during nursing school; only adding to my curve factor. Where do I add on the pounds...hips and thighs of course!
So this stranger gathers his items throughout the store, comes to the counter, smiles at me and says "you know they made this song about girls like you." Are you serious? Who says things like this to any girl, let alone a perfect stranger? All I could do was stare at him. I eventually smiled at him, totaled his purchase, and sent him on his way. It has been nearly 8 years since this has happened to me but something like that just sort of sticks with a girl.
The incident that has prompted me to write this is a complete, random, act of craziness. I was at Barnes and Noble, surprise-surprise, and some guy I have never seen before (as a side note I was in the wedding isle because I am in two weddings this summer and was asked by one of the brides to grab a book for her while I was there) came up to me and said "you know marriage isn't a guarantee, if you are looking for that go get a car battery." WHAT? Who says things like this to people they don't know? I gave him an odd look that said if you don't make any sudden movements maybe the crazy person wouldn't startle and charge. He chuckled and walked away. One of the employees was stocking the shelves down that isle and turned to me and asked if he was a friend of mine. I shook my head and said "definitely not." She looked doubtful but what can you do? Most people do not just randomly walk up to you and say such odd things.
So my question about this situation is: is this a form of turrets, regrets, experience, or just crazy guy stuff? I suppose it is the unpredictable that adds a little spice to life. However, I am not sure I want the fruitcake spice quite so strongly mixed with my portion of life.
As a book note, I am currently reading the Anita Blake Series by Laurell K. Hamilton. The first two books did not really grab my attention, mostly because Anita Blake, the protagonist of the story, was sort of annoying. To be honest it is the supporting characters she comes in contact with that mold who she "really is" or "should be." I am currently reading book #12 and things have gone in a slightly different direction, not necessarily bad just different. I am glad I took my friend's encouragement into consideration and kept reading the books, because book #3 really starts to show the series for what it is. Maybe this is where Hamilton hit her stride or just really came into her voice. Perhaps she was not sure where she wanted Anita's character to go or what she should develop into. Either way the 3rd book started to feel more solid and the story has built from there.
For those who encounter the odd on a regular basis, good luck! I hope you get a lot of spice in your life for enduring such goings on. As far as books go...enjoy!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Tuesdays With Morrie - Mitch Albom
This book was fabulous! As a nurse I have worked with patients in the end of life capacity. In the years that I have done this, I have not come across a person more at peace or comfortable with the notion of leaving this world in an untimely manner. Mostly there is anger and 'why me's?' Morrie not only accepted the hand he was dealt but continued his life as he made it. That is extremely commendable. I am so glad that someone was able to put that man's ideals and impressions into words to share with the world.
There were a few things that Morrie said that I think are great and should be shared. One was a quote from the poet Auden "Love each other or perish." And to quote Morrie, "We all have the same beginning--birth--and we all have the same end--death. So how different can we be?" Even in the throes of death Morrie was patient and understanding. The world could learn a lot from this man.
Mitch Albom did a great job of keeping the focus on Morrie. He even wrote it as if you are in his shoes and doesn't punctuate his own phrases, even though the conversations were taped and he could have quoted everything from both sides. Mitch Albom kept the book all about Morrie giving it the feel of the respect and love that was gained and offered to Morrie. It is understandable how this book is considered an important part of the modern culture, after all we "make our own culture," (to take an idea from Morrie) and used as a learning tool today.
Hope you enjoy!
There were a few things that Morrie said that I think are great and should be shared. One was a quote from the poet Auden "Love each other or perish." And to quote Morrie, "We all have the same beginning--birth--and we all have the same end--death. So how different can we be?" Even in the throes of death Morrie was patient and understanding. The world could learn a lot from this man.
Mitch Albom did a great job of keeping the focus on Morrie. He even wrote it as if you are in his shoes and doesn't punctuate his own phrases, even though the conversations were taped and he could have quoted everything from both sides. Mitch Albom kept the book all about Morrie giving it the feel of the respect and love that was gained and offered to Morrie. It is understandable how this book is considered an important part of the modern culture, after all we "make our own culture," (to take an idea from Morrie) and used as a learning tool today.
Hope you enjoy!
Friday, August 5, 2011
Oh Geez!
This summer has been a crazy summer! Full of great books though! The first book on the list of great books is Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. This is a book that I think would be a great to have as a required read for teenagers. It was open, honesty, and completely raw. What this teenager was going through and the help that was offered and sought...it was all very awe inspiring. I loved the book.
Next on the list is Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin. This author is gifted. I LOVED this book. It is the perfect single gals book. It has drama, secrets, and love. You feel so much for Rachel and Dex. On the one hand you are horrified at the thought of what Rachel and Dex are doing; I mean who does that to your so called "best friend"? On the other hand you hate Darcy and the type of woman that she represents. Then I read Something Blue, also by Emily Giffin, and this is where the genius comes in. In this book you get a soft spot for Darcy. Sure you sorta want to smack her in the first few chapters but then it's a complete turn around and you don't even really realize that you have switch to pro-Darcy until the end of the book and you go...awe...hmmmm, oh! Both very good books and a great Author.
Next! River Marked by Patricia Briggs. I love the Mercy Thompson books and this one went above and beyond. You learn a lot about the main characters and about Mercy's background. The end of the book leaves room for continuation and I'm looking forward to the next one...just haven't heard word of it yet. Keep the fingers crossed.
Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris is the next of the Sookie Stackhouse novels. There is talk of the Sookie Stackhouse series coming to an end. This book starts to tie some loose ends but leaves room for yet another book. It makes me a little sad to see the end of Sookie and the world that Charlaine Harris has created. This book was just another delicious part of a fantastic series.
The last book on list is Mermaid: A Twist on the Classic Tale by Carolyn Turgeon. I just had to read this book because The Little Mermaid was my favorite Disney movie when I was younger. I did, however, find myself going...'that is not how it happened.' I had to remind myself that they were two separate parts/views of the same great fairytale. Once I did that it turned out to be a good book. You find yourself rooting for all parties and then in the end you are sort of like 'oh geez, that's sorta sad...but great too.' It really was the best way for things to work out.
All in all I've had some great reads this summer and am continuing the trend. Enjoy!
Next on the list is Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin. This author is gifted. I LOVED this book. It is the perfect single gals book. It has drama, secrets, and love. You feel so much for Rachel and Dex. On the one hand you are horrified at the thought of what Rachel and Dex are doing; I mean who does that to your so called "best friend"? On the other hand you hate Darcy and the type of woman that she represents. Then I read Something Blue, also by Emily Giffin, and this is where the genius comes in. In this book you get a soft spot for Darcy. Sure you sorta want to smack her in the first few chapters but then it's a complete turn around and you don't even really realize that you have switch to pro-Darcy until the end of the book and you go...awe...hmmmm, oh! Both very good books and a great Author.
Next! River Marked by Patricia Briggs. I love the Mercy Thompson books and this one went above and beyond. You learn a lot about the main characters and about Mercy's background. The end of the book leaves room for continuation and I'm looking forward to the next one...just haven't heard word of it yet. Keep the fingers crossed.
Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris is the next of the Sookie Stackhouse novels. There is talk of the Sookie Stackhouse series coming to an end. This book starts to tie some loose ends but leaves room for yet another book. It makes me a little sad to see the end of Sookie and the world that Charlaine Harris has created. This book was just another delicious part of a fantastic series.
The last book on list is Mermaid: A Twist on the Classic Tale by Carolyn Turgeon. I just had to read this book because The Little Mermaid was my favorite Disney movie when I was younger. I did, however, find myself going...'that is not how it happened.' I had to remind myself that they were two separate parts/views of the same great fairytale. Once I did that it turned out to be a good book. You find yourself rooting for all parties and then in the end you are sort of like 'oh geez, that's sorta sad...but great too.' It really was the best way for things to work out.
All in all I've had some great reads this summer and am continuing the trend. Enjoy!
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