Archive for BOOKS

{ November 10, 2008 @ 4:45 pm } · { BIRTHDAY, BOOKS, Home, MON. MOMENT, TAG, USMC }
{ Leave a Comment }

My Fun Monday salute to Veterans is below…scroll down.

Hootin’ Anni’s Book Review, Monday Morsels

This week, my Monday blog is a bit different in the fact that I chose to give a book review of my own opinion of the book that took me all summer to read. Yes, two Sundays ago, I finally finished; I completed the book…all 1168 pages of it. It only took me from June to November to read it. It’s actually a ‘three-books-in-one’ novel.

It was first published in 1957. And it remains a heavily sought after work of fiction. Especially with the economics classes along with literature fields. The characters are strong mostly; some are weak and tend to lend a comedic relief in such a serious topic. Even after two weeks now that I’ve completed the book, it still lingers in my mind.

I, of course, do NOT want to give anything away, but throughout there is a question. A question that is answered – or is it? You must read to find out. Along with the characters, there is a strong setting. A setting of suspense, a setting of familial happenstance[s], of greed, construction and destruction. Strikes, deserters, looters, moochers, teachers, students, scientists, a whole society. Some are warped, while others remain keen and unflinching throughout. There is riches. There is tokens of greatness. High self-esteem, secrets, disappearances, deaths…it’s filled with intrigue.

I found it quite ironic that tho it was written and composed and printed in the 1950′s, and probably no doubt it had its share of criticisms and thoughts of banning back then to us readers….but the book, througout, remains in my mind because of the fact that the way the plot runs; it could well have taken place in today’s times!!! It’s so unrealistic in that aspect. Unrealistic for me in a shocking way. Not that it’s not realistic. It’s ironic. I guess you have to read the book to understand what I’m trying to convey.

I hear that they are making a movie from this novel. I just don’t see how in the world it could be even CLOSE to following the book without being a five hour movie…at least! Altho, I HAVE envisioned the main characters —at least TWO. I have Antonio Banderas playing Francisco…through the entire book! It just has to be Antonio. {LOL} And Dagny? The female lead character? Thank goodness I heard that Angelina Jolie quit the movie production. She just DOESN’T fit the character; she would have been SO WRONG. Again, throughout the book as I read —Dagny should be played by Jennifer Connelly. Okay…so, you can say it: “Anni’s weird”. In all honesty, I think they’d be wiser if they would produce and commit to making this a TV miniseries like Roots! Or Rich Man, Poor Man…or on the way of Thorn Birds. They’d make more money. Oops…money…that’s all part of Atlas Shrugged too.

I tried several times to get this book from the public library since it’s expensive in the bookstores…it was $22.00 for a paperback/softcover!!! But after so many telling me just how excellent it is, I broke down and bought my own copy through Barnes and Noble using an online 30% off coupon. And believe me, it is worth EVERY penny spent. I’m keeping this one. To re-read over and over.

Let me leave you with just a snippet –a teaser– of what’s inside the book covers:

    …”An animal is equipped for sustaining its life; its senses provide it with an automatic code of action, an automatic knowledge of what is good for it or evil. It has no power to extend its knowledge or to evade it. In conditions where its knowledge proves inadequate, it dies. But so long as it lives, it acts on its knowledge, with automatic safety and no power of choice, it is unable to ignore its own good, unable to decide to choose the evil and act as its own destroyer.

    Man has no automatic code of survival. His particular distinction from all other living species is the necessity to act in the face of alter-natives by means of volitional choice. He has no automatic knowledge of what is good for him or evil, what values his life depends on, what course of action it requires. ….” “Man must obtain his knowledge and choose his actions by a process of thinking, which nature will not force him to perform. Man has the power to act as his own destroyer….”

I was tagged by Antoinette, and I’ve added myself to the sisterhood. Here are the rules:

1. Put the logo in your blog.

2. Add a link to the person who shared it with you.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs

4. Add your link to the list of participants below

5. Leave a message for your nominee on their blog.

I nominate anyone who wishes to join the internet sisterhood. Just click on the logo to enlarge it, save it, and copy the list. Don’t forget to add your name. Then, pass it on if you choose to do so. Even if you don’t want to tag anyone…grab the tag & put the button on your sidebar and invite anyone to join in with supporting the worthy research. Tho Breast Cancer Awareness Month is October, it is definitely something to continue supporting each and every day!!!

PINK Sisterhood

1- Fara 2- Massy 3- N.O.Y 4- Mariuca 5- A Great Pleasure 6- LadyJava 7- Kim 8- Pink Thoughts 9- Turn-u-Off 10- Roxiticus Desperate Housewives 11- STAY AT HOME MOM 12- Fida Abbott 13- Also Mommy 14- Janice Ng 15- Juliana’s Site 16- The Painted Veil 17- Heart of Rachel 18- Mga Muni-muni 19-Picture Clusters 20- Scraps of Mind 21- Antoinette 22 – Hootin’ Anni – 23 YOU

Also, one more thing today, the Fun Monday salute to Veterans with hostess Jan—
With pride of a United States Marine mom that I am…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! You’re now 233 Years young!!
Ooooooooorah!!!

All U.S. Marines are gung-ho. But, few can match the vision and total commitment of the famous 13th Commandant, Gen. John A. Lejeune. In 1921 he issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, Series 1921. Gen. Lejeune’s order summarized the history, mission, and tradition of the Corps. It further directed that the order be read to all Marines on 10 November of each year to honor the founding of the Marine Corps. Thereafter, 10 November became a unique day for U.S. Marines throughout the world.

- – -

To all Veterans around the world…thanks for protecting us in the past, now and in the future. You are remembered! Our freedom comes at a cost of lives, and we give thanks to those who fought for our country. I love and lost the 1st “Love of my Life” from High School….he was shot down in Viet Nam. His platoon sergeant told me in a letter, “Frank never knew what hit him”. I still miss and still mourn the loss….tho he died in valor, I still feel it a waste of such a good life. I honor him today. [His name is on the great wall in Washington D.C. ---I cried so much at the time when I saw it, that I couldn't even touch his name]. Tomorrow, if I can get to scanning, I will have a much better post on all the VETS that I personally have the privilege of calling ‘my own”.

{ November 10, 2008 @ 4:45 pm } · { BIRTHDAY, BOOKS, Home, MON. MOMENT, TAG, USMC }
{ Leave a Comment }

My Fun Monday salute to Veterans is below…scroll down.

Hootin’ Anni’s Book Review, Monday Morsels

This week, my Monday blog is a bit different in the fact that I chose to give a book review of my own opinion of the book that took me all summer to read. Yes, two Sundays ago, I finally finished; I completed the book…all 1168 pages of it. It only took me from June to November to read it. It’s actually a ‘three-books-in-one’ novel.

It was first published in 1957. And it remains a heavily sought after work of fiction. Especially with the economics classes along with literature fields. The characters are strong mostly; some are weak and tend to lend a comedic relief in such a serious topic. Even after two weeks now that I’ve completed the book, it still lingers in my mind.

I, of course, do NOT want to give anything away, but throughout there is a question. A question that is answered – or is it? You must read to find out. Along with the characters, there is a strong setting. A setting of suspense, a setting of familial happenstance[s], of greed, construction and destruction. Strikes, deserters, looters, moochers, teachers, students, scientists, a whole society. Some are warped, while others remain keen and unflinching throughout. There is riches. There is tokens of greatness. High self-esteem, secrets, disappearances, deaths…it’s filled with intrigue.

I found it quite ironic that tho it was written and composed and printed in the 1950′s, and probably no doubt it had its share of criticisms and thoughts of banning back then to us readers….but the book, througout, remains in my mind because of the fact that the way the plot runs; it could well have taken place in today’s times!!! It’s so unrealistic in that aspect. Unrealistic for me in a shocking way. Not that it’s not realistic. It’s ironic. I guess you have to read the book to understand what I’m trying to convey.

I hear that they are making a movie from this novel. I just don’t see how in the world it could be even CLOSE to following the book without being a five hour movie…at least! Altho, I HAVE envisioned the main characters —at least TWO. I have Antonio Banderas playing Francisco…through the entire book! It just has to be Antonio. {LOL} And Dagny? The female lead character? Thank goodness I heard that Angelina Jolie quit the movie production. She just DOESN’T fit the character; she would have been SO WRONG. Again, throughout the book as I read —Dagny should be played by Jennifer Connelly. Okay…so, you can say it: “Anni’s weird”. In all honesty, I think they’d be wiser if they would produce and commit to making this a TV miniseries like Roots! Or Rich Man, Poor Man…or on the way of Thorn Birds. They’d make more money. Oops…money…that’s all part of Atlas Shrugged too.

I tried several times to get this book from the public library since it’s expensive in the bookstores…it was $22.00 for a paperback/softcover!!! But after so many telling me just how excellent it is, I broke down and bought my own copy through Barnes and Noble using an online 30% off coupon. And believe me, it is worth EVERY penny spent. I’m keeping this one. To re-read over and over.

Let me leave you with just a snippet –a teaser– of what’s inside the book covers:

    …”An animal is equipped for sustaining its life; its senses provide it with an automatic code of action, an automatic knowledge of what is good for it or evil. It has no power to extend its knowledge or to evade it. In conditions where its knowledge proves inadequate, it dies. But so long as it lives, it acts on its knowledge, with automatic safety and no power of choice, it is unable to ignore its own good, unable to decide to choose the evil and act as its own destroyer.

    Man has no automatic code of survival. His particular distinction from all other living species is the necessity to act in the face of alter-natives by means of volitional choice. He has no automatic knowledge of what is good for him or evil, what values his life depends on, what course of action it requires. ….” “Man must obtain his knowledge and choose his actions by a process of thinking, which nature will not force him to perform. Man has the power to act as his own destroyer….”

I was tagged by Antoinette, and I’ve added myself to the sisterhood. Here are the rules:

1. Put the logo in your blog.

2. Add a link to the person who shared it with you.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs

4. Add your link to the list of participants below

5. Leave a message for your nominee on their blog.

I nominate anyone who wishes to join the internet sisterhood. Just click on the logo to enlarge it, save it, and copy the list. Don’t forget to add your name. Then, pass it on if you choose to do so. Even if you don’t want to tag anyone…grab the tag & put the button on your sidebar and invite anyone to join in with supporting the worthy research. Tho Breast Cancer Awareness Month is October, it is definitely something to continue supporting each and every day!!!

PINK Sisterhood

1- Fara 2- Massy 3- N.O.Y 4- Mariuca 5- A Great Pleasure 6- LadyJava 7- Kim 8- Pink Thoughts 9- Turn-u-Off 10- Roxiticus Desperate Housewives 11- STAY AT HOME MOM 12- Fida Abbott 13- Also Mommy 14- Janice Ng 15- Juliana’s Site 16- The Painted Veil 17- Heart of Rachel 18- Mga Muni-muni 19-Picture Clusters 20- Scraps of Mind 21- Antoinette 22 – Hootin’ Anni – 23 YOU

Also, one more thing today, the Fun Monday salute to Veterans with hostess Jan—
With pride of a United States Marine mom that I am…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! You’re now 233 Years young!!
Ooooooooorah!!!

All U.S. Marines are gung-ho. But, few can match the vision and total commitment of the famous 13th Commandant, Gen. John A. Lejeune. In 1921 he issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, Series 1921. Gen. Lejeune’s order summarized the history, mission, and tradition of the Corps. It further directed that the order be read to all Marines on 10 November of each year to honor the founding of the Marine Corps. Thereafter, 10 November became a unique day for U.S. Marines throughout the world.

- – -

To all Veterans around the world…thanks for protecting us in the past, now and in the future. You are remembered! Our freedom comes at a cost of lives, and we give thanks to those who fought for our country. I love and lost the 1st “Love of my Life” from High School….he was shot down in Viet Nam. His platoon sergeant told me in a letter, “Frank never knew what hit him”. I still miss and still mourn the loss….tho he died in valor, I still feel it a waste of such a good life. I honor him today. [His name is on the great wall in Washington D.C. ---I cried so much at the time when I saw it, that I couldn't even touch his name]. Tomorrow, if I can get to scanning, I will have a much better post on all the VETS that I personally have the privilege of calling ‘my own”.

{ November 9, 2008 @ 2:50 pm } · { BOOKS, Home, MOVIES, Mutterings, SUNRISE-SUNSET }
{ Leave a Comment }


JOIN HERE
show the beauty of sunrise or sunset


I always love walking early in the morning when the sounds and noise of the city are at its minimum. It’s quiet and peaceful. And what better way to start the day than seeing something like this while walking? Taken from my cellphone, in our neighborhood over the roof-tops.

~…end Sunrise/Sunset
[comment HERE to skip all other Sunday stuff]


Play along with your subconscious; Sunday’s Word Association.
Join here.

I say … and you think … ?

1. Coverage :: News media
2. Cynical :: callous
3. Gust :: of wind
4. Improvised :: makeshift
5. V :: Roman Numeral five [hey, I told you I'm ancient!]
6. Guests :: patrons [hotel, restaurant]
7. Brutal :: mean, harsh
8. Grant :: Hugh
9. Pull :: push
10. Streaming :: emitting

~…end of Mutterings
[comment HERE to skip all other Sunday stuff]

Bidding on Ebay sometimes is frightening. How often have I went in to do a search for some item that is one ‘one of a kind’…or perhaps and item that ‘is hot’; a collectible? For instance, months ago when The New Yorker came out with the controversial cover of Michelle and Barack dressed in garb such as to give the artistic influence of terrorists or Arabs? Remember that one?

Well, throughout this hick town, not too many establishments carry something quite as ‘intellectual’ as The New Yorker. And we only have one really ‘good’ bookstore. Other than Walden’s Books [Walden's has since closed its doors for good] found in the main mall, we have Barnes and Noble. Both were sold out within hours of putting the magazine on the shelf.

Well, when it comes to ‘collecting’ collectibles such as this [magazines and newspapers store flat, lol] I tend to want what is the ‘hot item of the day’. Which back then, this particular magazine was. I even called my sister in Colorado, and our son in Houston [our daughter lives in more of a 'hick town' than we do if you can believe that, so I figured that was a fruitless effort]. To no avail. All over Houston, sold out. As with Colorado…she went to Grand Junction and around her city also…nothing, sold out.

My next step was Ebay. Tho some where ‘reasonably’ priced with bidding, I was always beat out at the last minute…even when I set a ‘maximum’ bid. After a week or two of trying, I just gave up on the whole idea.

- – -

Then, watching CNN’s Wolf Blitzer in the afternoon here, the next hot item is the November 8th’s issue of Time Magazine. A Commerative Issue. Rumors on that program said throughout the north east and along the eastern seaboard, the magazine was being sold out within minutes of putting them out. He, Wolf, said to us viewers “It would probably be a better bet to buy online.” Well, Time won’t just let any one person order any one magazine, you need to buy the subscription. Nope, not me…my mail box is already filled with subscription papers and hubby’s government magazine issues daily. For two days now, if we were out and about as usual, we stopped by the bookstores…they haven’t got their shipment in yet was the story we’d hear. Okay, so then, I thought “Try Ebay”. Ummmmm, ya right! When the bid starts at $24 something?! Sure it’s a collector’s item, I can see the point…but have you bid against some of these lunatics? ….[kidding on the lunatics...just me being sarcastic]…. Anyway, I’ve learned to shy away from the bidders ever since the older issue of The New Yorker went for ‘sky high’ prices. I’d like to have the Time issue for November 8th tho.

After being scared looking through Ebay, I decided to try one more time with Barnes and Noble since it’s the closest to our home.

One ringie dingie.
Two ringie dingies.
Connection made.
“Thank you for calling Barnes and Noble….yada, yada, yada.”
Music.
More music.
“This is Chris, may I help you?”
My mind is saying “No, we sold out of them already”….but I ask anyway.
“Do you have the November 8th issue of Time Magazine?”

“We just put them out, let me check, I’m real close to the magazines.”
More music.
Chris comes back online.
“It’s the Commerative Issue, yes we have just a few left. But, we do have them.”
My heart leaped in high speed.
I slide down the phone guard and walk into the living room where Bud was.

“I’m going to B&N…wanna come with?”
“Nah”
“Okay I’ll be right back”.

I drive down the freeway, get to the parking lot…realize I still have my shorts on and beach shoes…oh well. Walk in….the line at the checkout stand was a block long…the patrons each have 3 or 4 issues in there hot little hands [my first thought was potential Ebay sellers]….oh no! They’re gonna be gone! I felt it in my bones.

I spied a few. Grabbed only one. I’m not greedy.
Stood in line for a while, got up there…paid for my collector’s issue and left.

But after all that said, I have a question.

Have you ever felt you overbid on something through Ebay? Then, felt a bit like a crazy person in the interim for bidding too high?

We’d make a great leading couple, don’t you think?

- – -

Since I love movies, and watch them more than anything on television at any given time, I saw this new beta quiz on someone’s sidebar the other day and wanted to try it. I thought it’d be fun to have Bud show me just who my ‘leading man’ would be from his answers to the quiz—I’m ‘married to’…….

Your result for The Classic Leading Man Test…

Jimmy Stewart

You are the fun and friendly boy next door, the classic nice guy who still manages to get the girl most of the time. You’re every nice girl’s dreamboat, open and kind, nutty and charming, even a little mischievous at times, but always a real stand up guy. You’re dependable and forthright, and women are drawn to your reliability, even as they’re dazzled by your sense of adventure and fun. You try to be tough when you need to be, and will gladly stand up for any damsel in distress, but you’d rather catch a girl with a little bit of flair. Your leading ladies include Jean Arthur and Donna Reed, those sweet girl-next-door types. [Oh oh...sweet cheeks...you didn't do your choosing for a leading lady well....well, read on down, you'll see!]

Find out what kind of classic dame you’d make by taking the
Classic Dames Test.

Take The Classic Leading Man Test at HelloQuizzy

- – -

Then, to turn the other cheek so to speak, I took the ‘leading lady’ quiz to see who Bud’s leading lady is:

Your result for The Classic Dames Test…

Barbara Stanwyck

You’re a tough dame, a bit of a spitfire, and you can even be a little dangerous, but you do it with such flair that almost all is forgiven (and even when it’s not, you’re still the most interesting woman in the room). You can be witty and charming, all right, but you have a tough streak that keeps you focused and sometimes deadly. You’ve had quite a climb to get where you are, but you’re a hard worker and you mostly deserve all you get…and then some. You might end up destroying everything around you, but you must admit…you’ve got style. Your leading men include Henry Fonda, Fred MacMurray, and when you forget yourself, Gary Cooper. [Ummmm, guess I didn't choose right either...but then again, think about it...with me being the spitfire, there is no room for two of us. So, ya, having a friendly boy next door is just the ticket...no competition that way. rofl!!!]

Find out what kind of classic leading man you’d make by taking the
Classic Leading Man Test.

Take The Classic Dames Test at HelloQuizzy

{ November 9, 2008 @ 2:50 pm } · { BOOKS, Home, MOVIES, Mutterings, SUNRISE-SUNSET }
{ Leave a Comment }


JOIN HERE
show the beauty of sunrise or sunset


I always love walking early in the morning when the sounds and noise of the city are at its minimum. It’s quiet and peaceful. And what better way to start the day than seeing something like this while walking? Taken from my cellphone, in our neighborhood over the roof-tops.

~…end Sunrise/Sunset
[comment HERE to skip all other Sunday stuff]


Play along with your subconscious; Sunday’s Word Association.
Join here.

I say … and you think … ?

1. Coverage :: News media
2. Cynical :: callous
3. Gust :: of wind
4. Improvised :: makeshift
5. V :: Roman Numeral five [hey, I told you I'm ancient!]
6. Guests :: patrons [hotel, restaurant]
7. Brutal :: mean, harsh
8. Grant :: Hugh
9. Pull :: push
10. Streaming :: emitting

~…end of Mutterings
[comment HERE to skip all other Sunday stuff]

Bidding on Ebay sometimes is frightening. How often have I went in to do a search for some item that is one ‘one of a kind’…or perhaps and item that ‘is hot’; a collectible? For instance, months ago when The New Yorker came out with the controversial cover of Michelle and Barack dressed in garb such as to give the artistic influence of terrorists or Arabs? Remember that one?

Well, throughout this hick town, not too many establishments carry something quite as ‘intellectual’ as The New Yorker. And we only have one really ‘good’ bookstore. Other than Walden’s Books [Walden's has since closed its doors for good] found in the main mall, we have Barnes and Noble. Both were sold out within hours of putting the magazine on the shelf.

Well, when it comes to ‘collecting’ collectibles such as this [magazines and newspapers store flat, lol] I tend to want what is the ‘hot item of the day’. Which back then, this particular magazine was. I even called my sister in Colorado, and our son in Houston [our daughter lives in more of a 'hick town' than we do if you can believe that, so I figured that was a fruitless effort]. To no avail. All over Houston, sold out. As with Colorado…she went to Grand Junction and around her city also…nothing, sold out.

My next step was Ebay. Tho some where ‘reasonably’ priced with bidding, I was always beat out at the last minute…even when I set a ‘maximum’ bid. After a week or two of trying, I just gave up on the whole idea.

- – -

Then, watching CNN’s Wolf Blitzer in the afternoon here, the next hot item is the November 8th’s issue of Time Magazine. A Commerative Issue. Rumors on that program said throughout the north east and along the eastern seaboard, the magazine was being sold out within minutes of putting them out. He, Wolf, said to us viewers “It would probably be a better bet to buy online.” Well, Time won’t just let any one person order any one magazine, you need to buy the subscription. Nope, not me…my mail box is already filled with subscription papers and hubby’s government magazine issues daily. For two days now, if we were out and about as usual, we stopped by the bookstores…they haven’t got their shipment in yet was the story we’d hear. Okay, so then, I thought “Try Ebay”. Ummmmm, ya right! When the bid starts at $24 something?! Sure it’s a collector’s item, I can see the point…but have you bid against some of these lunatics? ….[kidding on the lunatics...just me being sarcastic]…. Anyway, I’ve learned to shy away from the bidders ever since the older issue of The New Yorker went for ‘sky high’ prices. I’d like to have the Time issue for November 8th tho.

After being scared looking through Ebay, I decided to try one more time with Barnes and Noble since it’s the closest to our home.

One ringie dingie.
Two ringie dingies.
Connection made.
“Thank you for calling Barnes and Noble….yada, yada, yada.”
Music.
More music.
“This is Chris, may I help you?”
My mind is saying “No, we sold out of them already”….but I ask anyway.
“Do you have the November 8th issue of Time Magazine?”

“We just put them out, let me check, I’m real close to the magazines.”
More music.
Chris comes back online.
“It’s the Commerative Issue, yes we have just a few left. But, we do have them.”
My heart leaped in high speed.
I slide down the phone guard and walk into the living room where Bud was.

“I’m going to B&N…wanna come with?”
“Nah”
“Okay I’ll be right back”.

I drive down the freeway, get to the parking lot…realize I still have my shorts on and beach shoes…oh well. Walk in….the line at the checkout stand was a block long…the patrons each have 3 or 4 issues in there hot little hands [my first thought was potential Ebay sellers]….oh no! They’re gonna be gone! I felt it in my bones.

I spied a few. Grabbed only one. I’m not greedy.
Stood in line for a while, got up there…paid for my collector’s issue and left.

But after all that said, I have a question.

Have you ever felt you overbid on something through Ebay? Then, felt a bit like a crazy person in the interim for bidding too high?

We’d make a great leading couple, don’t you think?

- – -

Since I love movies, and watch them more than anything on television at any given time, I saw this new beta quiz on someone’s sidebar the other day and wanted to try it. I thought it’d be fun to have Bud show me just who my ‘leading man’ would be from his answers to the quiz—I’m ‘married to’…….

Your result for The Classic Leading Man Test…

Jimmy Stewart

You are the fun and friendly boy next door, the classic nice guy who still manages to get the girl most of the time. You’re every nice girl’s dreamboat, open and kind, nutty and charming, even a little mischievous at times, but always a real stand up guy. You’re dependable and forthright, and women are drawn to your reliability, even as they’re dazzled by your sense of adventure and fun. You try to be tough when you need to be, and will gladly stand up for any damsel in distress, but you’d rather catch a girl with a little bit of flair. Your leading ladies include Jean Arthur and Donna Reed, those sweet girl-next-door types. [Oh oh...sweet cheeks...you didn't do your choosing for a leading lady well....well, read on down, you'll see!]

Find out what kind of classic dame you’d make by taking the
Classic Dames Test.

Take The Classic Leading Man Test at HelloQuizzy

- – -

Then, to turn the other cheek so to speak, I took the ‘leading lady’ quiz to see who Bud’s leading lady is:

Your result for The Classic Dames Test…

Barbara Stanwyck

You’re a tough dame, a bit of a spitfire, and you can even be a little dangerous, but you do it with such flair that almost all is forgiven (and even when it’s not, you’re still the most interesting woman in the room). You can be witty and charming, all right, but you have a tough streak that keeps you focused and sometimes deadly. You’ve had quite a climb to get where you are, but you’re a hard worker and you mostly deserve all you get…and then some. You might end up destroying everything around you, but you must admit…you’ve got style. Your leading men include Henry Fonda, Fred MacMurray, and when you forget yourself, Gary Cooper. [Ummmm, guess I didn't choose right either...but then again, think about it...with me being the spitfire, there is no room for two of us. So, ya, having a friendly boy next door is just the ticket...no competition that way. rofl!!!]

Find out what kind of classic leading man you’d make by taking the
Classic Leading Man Test.

Take The Classic Dames Test at HelloQuizzy

{ November 7, 2008 @ 9:29 am } · { AWARD, BOOKS, gift, Home, Show-N-Tell }
{ Leave a Comment }


Join Here

Today my Show n Tell is just going to be a bit of an eclectic sort. I’m going to try and catch up on the past week of posting things and sharing things that have taken place for a few days. I’ve been quite preoccupied with what the country has been through and the election that I want to put that all behind me, and get back to a more ‘normal’ blog. If you can understand that.

The day after election I received the gift from Sherry’s Giveaway in which my name was drawn. I would like now to share some photos of what I received.

The doorbell rang Wednesday afternoon, and when I opened the door, the postal carrier left me a box at the doorstep. From the previous email last week, I knew to expect the delivery!

As I pulled out the bubble wrap and the surrounding stuffing, was I surprised or what? A sweet little card from Sherry…with a wonderful note from her to me. Then, I continued to take out some extra special items she included in my prize box.

Along with the Yellow Rose of Texas china cup and saucer, Sherry added to the gift box some assorted teas, crackers, a silver spoon and a butter knife!!! What a treasure I received!! All in one giveaway! And….

It’s so beautiful. It’s so fragile, it’s so perfect! I love it. And I will cherish it. In fact, the very next morning I was having a cup of soothing tea for my breakfast! Thank you so much Sherry!!

Stop by and pay Sherry a visit, won’t you? You can find her astounding blog at Edie Marie’s Attic.

- – -

Then, this past week, I received a wonderful surprise award from Kitten! She left in my comments that I’d been awarded this special gift. Thank you so much! It truly made my day. But of course I feel a need to apologize for not getting it up any sooner. The days went by so quickly this past week, I got so far behind. Needless to say your thought was much appreciated! Truly!!! It says “Your Blog is Out of This World”.

- – -

And lastly for now, I finally finished the three books in one novel…Atlas Shrugged. The book was astounding! But I’m gonna leave that subject a bit, and go with my choice of books that I picked to read next; the one I began to read in the last couple of days. [But on Monday, I hope to have a book critique finished and posted on Ayn Rand's Book -Atlas Shrugged- So, if you think you'd be interesting in my thoughts on this one fabulous book, drop back on Monday.]

My newest read is:

…”The Life and Trial of An American Slave Trader” Inside the dust cover, it states: “On a frosty day in late February 1862, hundreds gathered to watch the execution of Nathaniel Gordon. Hanging Captain Gordon explores the many compelling issues and circumstances that came together for this one man to pay the price for a crime committed by many; it also portrays the government that turned a blind eye to the horrific enterprise of human trafficking….”

This important and profound history is filled with drama and sharply drawn characters, including the young and aggressive prosecutor who made Gordon his personal demon, the U.S. marshal who did everything in his power to ensure Gordon’s death, the corrupt officials who tried to help him evade punishemt, and the old-guard justices who would bend the law to spare a slave trader.

This vivid account not only sheds light on one of the more shameful aspects of our history but provides a link to similar crimes against humanity…..

{ November 7, 2008 @ 9:29 am } · { AWARD, BOOKS, gift, Home, Show-N-Tell }
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Today my Show n Tell is just going to be a bit of an eclectic sort. I’m going to try and catch up on the past week of posting things and sharing things that have taken place for a few days. I’ve been quite preoccupied with what the country has been through and the election that I want to put that all behind me, and get back to a more ‘normal’ blog. If you can understand that.

The day after election I received the gift from Sherry’s Giveaway in which my name was drawn. I would like now to share some photos of what I received.

The doorbell rang Wednesday afternoon, and when I opened the door, the postal carrier left me a box at the doorstep. From the previous email last week, I knew to expect the delivery!

As I pulled out the bubble wrap and the surrounding stuffing, was I surprised or what? A sweet little card from Sherry…with a wonderful note from her to me. Then, I continued to take out some extra special items she included in my prize box.

Along with the Yellow Rose of Texas china cup and saucer, Sherry added to the gift box some assorted teas, crackers, a silver spoon and a butter knife!!! What a treasure I received!! All in one giveaway! And….

It’s so beautiful. It’s so fragile, it’s so perfect! I love it. And I will cherish it. In fact, the very next morning I was having a cup of soothing tea for my breakfast! Thank you so much Sherry!!

Stop by and pay Sherry a visit, won’t you? You can find her astounding blog at Edie Marie’s Attic.

- – -

Then, this past week, I received a wonderful surprise award from Kitten! She left in my comments that I’d been awarded this special gift. Thank you so much! It truly made my day. But of course I feel a need to apologize for not getting it up any sooner. The days went by so quickly this past week, I got so far behind. Needless to say your thought was much appreciated! Truly!!! It says “Your Blog is Out of This World”.

- – -

And lastly for now, I finally finished the three books in one novel…Atlas Shrugged. The book was astounding! But I’m gonna leave that subject a bit, and go with my choice of books that I picked to read next; the one I began to read in the last couple of days. [But on Monday, I hope to have a book critique finished and posted on Ayn Rand's Book -Atlas Shrugged- So, if you think you'd be interesting in my thoughts on this one fabulous book, drop back on Monday.]

My newest read is:

…”The Life and Trial of An American Slave Trader” Inside the dust cover, it states: “On a frosty day in late February 1862, hundreds gathered to watch the execution of Nathaniel Gordon. Hanging Captain Gordon explores the many compelling issues and circumstances that came together for this one man to pay the price for a crime committed by many; it also portrays the government that turned a blind eye to the horrific enterprise of human trafficking….”

This important and profound history is filled with drama and sharply drawn characters, including the young and aggressive prosecutor who made Gordon his personal demon, the U.S. marshal who did everything in his power to ensure Gordon’s death, the corrupt officials who tried to help him evade punishemt, and the old-guard justices who would bend the law to spare a slave trader.

This vivid account not only sheds light on one of the more shameful aspects of our history but provides a link to similar crimes against humanity…..

{ October 9, 2008 @ 2:53 am } · { BOOKS, HALLOWEEN, Home, Sleepy Hollow, Thursday, Treats }
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[ps...last week for Thursday 13 I had some 'free' Halloween Thursday 13 post headers for anyone that wanted them -HERE]

Edition 78

This week will be 13 facts from a favorite book not only for the season, but anytime – any place. “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and the author’s history -Number 12 being a favorite passage of mine from the book.

If you visited this past Tuesday you viewed an ‘old shoppe’ type wooden sign I made for Halloween decor in my home. [If you missed it, it's HERE and the link should open in a new window] Of all books, and not only for Halloween, this is one of my favorite short stories…..

1] The short story was written by Washington Irving, as we all know. But, in 1820 his work of “Sleepy Hollow” and “Rip Van Winkle” was published under the name of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. [being Washington Irving]

2] The publication under Crayon was called “The Sketch Book” and it was a ‘serial’ [meaning it came out in a 'series' through the year 1819-1820] of some 30+ essays.

3] Geoffrey Crayon was one of the first pseudonyms used by Irving

4] Irving was offered, and he turned down, a position of Secretary of Navy [his brother, William, was Congressman of New York].

5] The original date of publication of the short story, Legend of Sleepy Hollow, was March 15th, 1820

6] Icabod Crane [the school master], according to Irving, was based on a real life character – Jesse Merwin from Kinderhook New York.

7] There was a ‘real life’ person named Icabod Crane…a colonel in the Army during the war of 1812.

8] The Headless Horseman was supposedly a Hessian Soldier, where during the American Revolutionary War, he was beheaded at the battle of Chatterton Hill, from a rocketing cannonball.

9] The horseman is fabled to be buried here:


    The Old Dutch Church

10] Irving lived in the area, and died. He is buried in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. Which by the way, at Irving’s request upon his death be changed in name from Tarrytown Cemetery to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.


    Washington Irving’s Resting Place

11] The character of Katrina [the love interest of Brom Bones and Icabod Crane] is thought to have been based upon Eleanor Van Tassel Brush, in which case her name is derived from that of Eleanor’s aunt Catriena Ecker Van Tessel.

12] …”yet, daylight put an end to all these evils; he would have passed a pleasant life of it, in despite of the Devil and all his works, if his path had not been crossed by a being that causes more perplexity to mortal man than ghosts, goblins, and the whole race of witches put together, and that was–a woman.” [Icabod]

13] Images from my copy of “Legend of Sleepy Hollow” with a great children’s illustrator: Russ Flint


BONUS: There is also another story [among many] that deals with the “Headless Horseman”. Written by an Irishman, Mayne Reid. It takes place in South Texas!!! Link

~…end Thursday 13
[comment link here for those that wish to skip the Halloween Treat below]

And finally, the Halloween Treats:

All righty then, for today’s trick or treaters, I’ve started using this new ‘treat’ for the week. I’m handing them out for commentors to my blog who leave ME treats this month with their kind words. Don’t be dismayed, I plan on handing them out daily. Only take them if your name appears for the day—

So, check back often, you’re name may show up here!
To begin my traditional fun, as I love Halloween, today the trick ‘r’ treaters are:

Philos
Kat
Angie
Sarah
CorgiDogMama

And the treat this week will be:

When your name appears above, if you’d like to save this, click on it to enlarge…you’ll then be able to grab the treat and run! Happy October, Happy Halloween.

{ September 8, 2008 @ 10:01 am } · { BOOKS, FunFiction, MON. MOMENT }
{ Leave a Comment }

Woodland Mama came up with one fantastic challenge. And Fun too! Here’s what she asked of us this week:

    ~Write the beginning of an unusual love story (not a real one). I only want the first paragraph. You can add an illustration or a picture to spice it up if you are really daring. Now don’t be afraid. You blog, so you can do it.

…and naturally I got carried away, it really should be written in more than ONE paragraph, but I kept it as one so I wouldn’t be known as a ‘cheater’ rofl.

With my back to the sun, I was lounging on the firey sand atop my freshly laundered, but tattered, beach towel as I read my paperback novel. The sound of the surf was making for a wonderful, lazy, day. The tropical breeze was spinning its way through the reed weave of my large brimmed hat, and tossing the tendrils of my dark brown hair. The day couldn’t have been more perfect. I was young back then. The day was peaceful. I was alone as I wanted to be. I wasn’t much of a socialite and I enjoyed my quiet time being by myself, taking a break from a long burdensome week of working at the office in the city. The book I was reading was a sultry romance. One I was enjoying and I admit, I had difficulty not taking it to work with me and just forgetting my routine and what was expected of me at my job. It would have been so easy to just forget the mundanes of my five day employment, and …..turn the pages of reverie and daydream of a fantasy life of Jake and Sarah. As I began a new chapter, Jake was searching. Searching for his lost love. Sarah. She had mysteriously disappeared and his loss haunted him. They had made passionate love on the tropical island that for as much as they knew, no one else inhabited. Then, she left him…left him with just the memory of the beautiful, green-eyed brunette that engulfed him with such passion. As I readied my thumb and finger to flip the page to continue helping Jake with his search for Sarah, a shadow was cast on my book from behind. Tho startled, I turned to find what was darkening my world. There, behind me, was Jake!! He was deeply tanned, and he had aged a bit from the author’s description in the front pages of the fiction I was traversing. But it was him. That instant I knew this man…he was the man I too have been searching for; I was so much like the second character of the artists conception between the paper pages of the book. I was Sarah———

[Rayne will host next week]

{ September 1, 2008 @ 10:01 am } · { BOOKS, Home, MON. MOMENT, Photography }
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Gattina is our gracious hostess this week for Fun Monday. And I love her challenge this week. For two reasons. It’s simple. AND I get a chance to see where others usually do their blogging!!!

So, here goes:


Left photo: Just inside the doorway of the computer room slash library is a narrow bookshelf with two miniature flags [United States Navy -blue one, and the United States Marine Corps -red one.] Also, on the wall is a Navy Seal blanket.
Right photo: The TV cabinet – and hidden in the cupboards of the cabinet are all my genealogy books/folders/albums etc. On the shelves you see knick knacks and photos of my son in his USMC uniform [and a gold music box of the USMC eagle globe and anchor -which naturally plays the USMC's "From the Halls of Montezuma" - the Marine's Hymn] and a photo of Irene, Clint and me from years ago. Smaller photos of my kids at Christmas too.


My flat screen monitor set on my blog page. [clever, huh?]


To the right of my computer/keyboard, on the desk, sitting on a mirror is my birthstone geode I found while rock hunting…amethyst – and a snowglobe mermaid.


Behind my desk chair…shelves and shelves of books. From ceiling to floor!


A collection of mermaids are perched on shelves just above my desk.

To the left of my computer, on the desk with me, is a photo of my mother at the age of 16….and me and Bud on our wedding day. On the wall to my left is none other than Captain Jack Sparrow!!! And a framed art print of a clipper ship.

Woodland Mama hosting next week.

{ August 19, 2008 @ 3:00 am } · { BOOKS, Home, Medical, TUESDAY }
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This is the 1st Anniversary of the meme started by Barb – Heads or Tails. We’re encouraged to ‘think outside the box’ which means more or less….”Players? You have free reign!” This week our prompt is appropriately heads OR tails.

I’m going with TWO ‘Heads’ Up version.

The 1st:

A prayer [or best positive thoughts] for a friend of mine, and a new book coming to a bookstore near you!

I’d like to introduce you [without names] to a loving woman, “R”, and her man who has become an intregal part of my life online! In all actuality, it’s going to be, in sort, another anniversary of one definite ‘special occasion’. And this past Wednesday it was their 60th anniversary of that special occasion!! On the 14th of August these two love birds took an excursion that fine day in 1948 —an excursion that would last them a lifetime! You see it was the day a certain ring [engagement] was going to be purchased!!

When I saw this photo the other day in my email…I fell in love with it. You know how the saying goes, “a picture paints a 1000 words”? I see so much in this photo. I see love, I see happiness, I see determination, I see devotion, I see two young wonderful people! This couple is very special to me!! No, we’re not related, tho so many times in the several years I’ve known them by online friendship and mailings through the postal service…gifts, chats, scares, fun, teasing, cards…you name it, I’ve felt that they ARE a part of me in so many ways. When I opened this photo attachment, my heart skipped a beat…I fell in love with it as I’ve grown to love the couple! Why, looking at this photo is like seeing for the first time a relationship that will go on beyond life, and perhaps show others that being as one —that life is GOOD!!!

One more thing, this fine lady is going in for surgery Tuesday [probably is in surgery as you read this]. I ask that you keep her in your thoughts —and pray that the operation is successful!! ♥

[I received permission, okaying me to post this special photo!! Thank you dear hearts!!!] And to respect their privacy, I promised to not use any names here. Love you bunches, and hold you close to my heart!!!

    “Hi sweet Anni
    But of course, You can use the photo all you want, and I am very honored that you think it is good enough to go on the net, Maybe you can brighten it up, or take some of the stains off, and this one is 60 years old you know.”

—

The 2nd ‘Heads’ UP:

I can’t wait….I can’t wait! How long is it now ’til October 14th?!! Maybe, just maybe Barnes and Nobel will have it out on the shelves before then. I do hope so…oh, I just can’t wait!

I’ve been waiting and waiting and waiting for the newest book of his. Finally. At last. I’m gonna be a happy camper book holder soon. Yes!!!

My favorite author is coming out with his 3rd in a series of OZ. As in the Wizard of Oz and the Wicked Witch. Adult fantasy come to life. The newest one [Wicked and the Son of a Witch are the two previous books] is entitled A Lion Among Men. I found out about the book about a year ago, that he was working on it; through a google search “New book for Gregory Maguire”. And I read a bit of what it was going to be about back then, tho the synopsis at the time was very scant. Now B&N has a more in depth version of the background of what’s going to be between the covers of his newest fiction….

    A Lion Among Men complements the New York Times bestseller Son of a Witch in fleshing out the world of Oz, seen this time through the eyes of the Cowardly Lion-remembered from Wicked as a tiny cub defended by Elphaba. While civil war looms in Oz, an ancient and tetchy oracle named Yackle prepares for death. Before she can return to dust, however, the Cowardly Lion, an enigmatic figure named Brrr, arrives in search of information about Elphaba Thropp, the Wicked Witch of the West. As payment, Yackle, who hovered on the sidelines of Elphaba’s life, demands some answers of her own. Abandoned as a cub, Brrr’s earliest memories are only gluey hazes. But his path from infancy in the Great Gillikin Forest is no Yellow Brick Road. Seeking to redress an early mistake, he tumbles though a swamp of ghosts, becomes implicated in a massacre of trolls, and falls in love with a Cat princess. Sidestepping the laws that oppress talking Animals, Brrr cannily avoids a jail sentence by agreeing to serve as a lackey to the warmongering Emperor of Oz. A Lion Among Men traces a battle of wits between adversaries distracted by the armies approaching on either side of them. What does the Lion know of the whereabouts of the Witch’s boy, Liir? What can Yackle reveal about the auguries of the Clock of the Time Dragon? Is destiny ever arbitrary? Can those tarnished by infamy escape their sobriquets-cowardly, wicked, brainless, criminally earnest-to claim their own histories, to live honorably within their own skins before they’re skinned alive?

Monday afternoon, I ended up at Barnes N Noble and ordered one already…And I’m gonna be one of the first to hit the store in just a little over a month. Oh goodie, oh goodie!! Call me strange, but I do get excited over all his books. I have ‘em all [and one teen book he wrote about the tooth fairy coming to life too!]

Here’s my collection of first editions.

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