The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games. As usual, I'm a bit late to the party, but with the release of the film, and Louisvillian Jennifer Lawrence starring, I wanted to see what the hype was all about. Yet before I saw the film, I needed to read the book first.

So, a young woman in my office lent me "The Hunger Games." I was already reading another book on my Kindle and thought I would just peruse THG, then quickly return to my Kindle selection. And, as I'm sure you guessed if you are a THG devotee, that wasn't the case. I've quickly been sucked into this book and I'm giddy to know there are two others in the series.

I still have half of the first novel to go, so I've not read any book or film reviews - I don't want to spoil anything. A friend on Facebook went to the first showing of the movie wearing a "Team Peeta" T-shirt. I had no idea what that meant until I started the book. Now, I want one of those shirts.

Over the weekend while at a cookout with friends, the subject of the film came up. A friend's daughter, who is a junior in high school (THG target audience) mentioned that her favorite character is introduced in the next book. Really?! Who is it?! I can't wait. We also learned that Jennifer Lawrence grew up very close to where we live. In fact, her parents still live there, less than a mile from our house. Hmm. I think I'll go for a long walk this evening...

Have you read the book(s)? Seen the film? What do you think? No spoilers, please!
Images from Lionsgate Films

'Ali in Wonderland'

I like Ali Wentworth. I know some people don't, perhaps for a variety of reasons. They think her humor is too goof ball. (I, for one, think she's very funny with the right amount of wit.) Or they don't like her because she's married to George Stephanopoulos. (Yeah, I spelled it correctly. Cut & paste is a marvelous thing.) Or, they think she's had everything handed to her in life because of her sliver-spoon upbringing. (Not only are the Wentworths WASPy Mayflower descendents, Ali's mom, Muffie, was Nancy Reagan's social secretary and her dad was a political writer for the Washington Post.)

Anyhoo, Ms. Wentworth has a new book out called "Ali in Wonderland," which I may need to purchase for a good laugh and a little more insight into the life of Ali and George. She recently made an appearance on ABC's Good Morning America to discuss her book with Robin Roberts. It's so funny to watch George's reactions when the camera pans to him. You can tell he's thinking "Oh, Lord, what's she going to say next?"

Ms. Wentworth, oh, heck, let's call her Ali, also has a new webcast, "The Daily Shot with Ali Wentworth." It's filmed at her kitchen table and she talks about a variety of topics, from motherhood to current events. When she recounts her first date with George in one of the episodes, it's a bit TMI , but that's just her. She puts it all out there.

And, one more thing, I'm tired of people giving her flack over her eyes. She's often criticized for the bags under her eyes. You know what folks? Some of us have to wear more concealer than others. It's either genetic or it's because we have young kids and a good night's sleep eludes us. So, back off, will you?

It's Friday, friends. I'm so glad to have survived. This weekend is our daughter's school fundraiser. We'll be donning western boots and bling for the "Diamonds and Denim" theme. Should be fun!
Images from ABC News and womensconference.org

Mother Runner

As I’ve mentioned more than once, I’m slowly trying to build a regular running routine. Some of you may ask, “Still? You’ve been saying this FOREVER, lady.” Yeah, I know. I get started, then I fall off the wagon dealing with all-things life. But, I keep coming back to it. I want to be healthier, I want to increase my fitness activity, I want more energy, I want to build muscle tone and I want to wear cute running outfits.

So, when I’m tired after a long day at work and ready to call it quits after giving my kids a bath or helping with homework, I’ve had to force myself to get on the treadmill. And once I do, I feel great. I crank up the music and run. It’s just keeping the excuses not to exercise at bay. It’s easy to talk yourself out of exercising, be it early in the morning (“One more hour of sleep, please!”) or in the evening (“I just want to crawl into bed!”).

Granted, I would prefer running outside, but now that Daylight Savings Time has ended, I have to reserve my outdoor runs for weekends. Bummer, I know. But, at least I’m getting a smoother run on the treadmill.

So, as I take another crack at a regular running routine, I went looking for inspiration. I found a book called “Run Like a Mother.” Then, I learned there’s a blog and Facebook page, “Another Mother Runner,” produced by the authors of the book. I am loving these sites right now and plan to order the book. And, I can’t get my hands on this T-shirt fast enough:

Oh, yeah, I need this for runnin’ in the 'hood.

For those of you who exercise regularly, be it running, aerobics, cycling, swimming – you name it – are there blogs, books or websites that you turn to for motivation? If so, what are they and why are they your go-to sites?

And, thanks again for indulging me in my recent rants. I appreciate the feedback I received from everyone. It's Friday, dear friends. We made it.
Images from anothermotherrunning.com

Book Review: 'Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner'

A few weeks ago, I was contacted by a representative for the author, Diane Meier, asking me to review Meier’s latest release, “Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.” If you’ve read my blog long enough, you may recall the review I did last year of Meier’s delightful Season of Second Chances. She has now released a collection of short stories and I was more than happy to get a fist look at her latest release. 

Quick aside: My husband and I are both English majors. He has always said that the short story is his favorite genre. I, on the other hand, like to get lost in a big, fat novel. But, I recall a professor in college saying that the short story is the most difficult to write. It must draw the reader in, say as much as possible, and then close, all the while keeping the reader engaged. While some may say a novel is tough to write – and most certainly is – a writer can continue a novel for a very long time without having to wrap it up quickly and concisely. It takes a special talent to write a good short story.

That being said, I think Meier did an excellent job in telling each story, drawing you into the moment, giving you glimpse into the characters and then closing the narrative at the right time. Yes, I would have liked some of the stories to last longer, but perhaps that’s what Meier accomplished. She coaxed me in and left me wanting more.

“Breakfast” finds a group of New York magazine creatives on a photo shoot in a small town. I enjoyed the witty, sometimes catty and colorful, commentary of the “sophisticates” stuck in a Midwestern town. The variety of conversations, the push and pull among characters and the collective dislike of one troublesome outsider impacting the fold, made this story an engrossing read.

The reunion of childhood acquaintances occurs in “Lunch.” Of the three stories, this one was my favorite. I won’t give too much away, but it does illustrate how some things change, some stay the same; some people evolve, while others don’t, and unfortunately, years of experience doesn’t always result in enlightenment.

“Dinner” focuses on another group of artists, writers and “creative types,” dining at an inn. Quick-witted banter and observations of the world are batted among this group. Meier said this story is an homage to My Dinner with Andre, and that comes across through Meier’s delicious words, full of intellectual statements and questions.

If you’re looking for a smart read, I highly recommend this collection from Diane Meier. If you add it to your book club line-up, make sure your hors d-oeuvres and bottle of wine are top notch.

Last night, I finished the novel "Sarah's Key." Tragic, sad and haunting, it was a tough read emotionally. It will drain you. But, it was wonderfully written and I did make it through to the end. I plan to write about it in a future post.
Image from Amazon

Book Reviews - Coming Soon to a Blog Near You

Stay tuned over the next few days for two book reviews I plan to publish. I was again fortunate enough to receive a complimentary copy of Diane Meier’s new set of short stories. If you recall, I reviewed Ms. Meier’s novel, The Season of Second Chances, last year and found it delightful.

Diane Meier, author of Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

I’m close to completing Meier's “Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner” (would have whipped through these earlier, but my kids don’t seem to adhere to their bedtime schedule very well), and once I do, I’ll be sure to share my thoughts on the compilation. So far, it’s been a great read - full report soon on the way.

In addition to Meier’s stories, I’m also prepping for Gridiron Belles, a fun look at the Southeastern Conference and a guide for women who are novices to the sport of football.

Christie Leigh Mueller, author of Gridiron Belles

I, for one, am not a novice. I love football and all things SEC. So, when I heard about this book, and the fact that it’s written by Louisville native Christie Leigh Mueller, (who also is an alumnae of my high school), I reached out requesting an interview. As you know, I like to give shout-outs to local writers, artists, businesses, etc., so I thought this would be a fun blog post. Ms. Mueller and I are meeting for coffee next week when she has some down-time from her book tour. And, you Auburn fans are going to LOVE her. Stay tuned – should be fun!

My son's teacher lent me Sarah's Key, which recently was made into a film starring Kristin Scott Thomas. I've barely started it (Yes, I multi-task with a few books at a time; I know, as a friend in college used to say, "That ain't right."), and I've heard great things about it, but the subject matter is already tough to take. A little too Sophie's Choice and I can't handle that, so we'll see where how far I get. If you've read it and liked it, please let me know.

So, dear friends, what are you reading these days? Anything you would recommend? Please share!
Images from dianemeier.com and gridironbelles.com

The Fabulous Beekman Boys

Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, aka "The Fabulous Beekman Boys"

I have a new favorite program: “The Fabulous Beekman Boys.” I read about these guys on a couple of other blogs, so I had to check them out to see if all of the tales of fabulousness were true. And, yes, they are! 

 The Beekman Mansion and Farm, Sharon Springs, New York.

Their program is on Planet Green TV, which if you don’t have this cable channel, you can watch episodes for free On Demand. Anyhoo, the Beekman Boys are Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, two city guys who found a beautiful mansion and farm in upstate New York and are trying to make a go of it by selling goat milk products, as well as other goods inspired by their farm living. Their product line is Beekman 1802.

After becoming so enamored with the boys, I just had to order Josh’s book on my Kindle last night. The Bucolic Plague: How Two Manhattanites Became Gentlemen Farmers – An Unconventional Memoir, is a hilarious account of their efforts to purchase the farm and make a go of it in the country. Along the way, both men lost their jobs during the peak of the recession; but rest assured, they bounced back. If you like David Sedaris, you’ll really like this book. Josh is a former drag queen turned ad executive. Brent is a doctor, who also served as vice president of healthy living for Martha Stewart Omnimedia. So, with ties to Martha and the world of drag queens, it’s never a dull moment with these two.

I think I may have to purchase the first season of “The Fabulous Beekman Boys” on DVD. I’ve only seen a few episodes of season two via On Demand and they are such fun. If you can, be sure to check it out.

I hope everyone had a blessed Easter. Our weekend was full of a variety of activities leading up to the special day. It was wonderful spending time with family and watching the kids’ excitement over their Easter baskets. I could have done without the endless rain, though. It would have been nice to release our sugar-filled kids into the great outdoors yesterday afternoon. Oh, well. The basement had to suffice.


Happy Easter Monday!Images from www.beekman1802.com and www.planetgreen.discovery.com

From the World of Books...

The high today in Louisville: 72 degrees.

Can I have an AMEN?!

In other news, I received the mass e-mail from Borders CEO Mike Edwards yesterday confirming what had been rumored for months, that the company is filing Chapter 11. While the company isn't completely going out of business, it is closing several of its stores, including two in my hometown.

So, what does this mean? Well, it shows the tremendous impact that online book sellers, such as Amazon, as well as such technologies as Kindles and e-Readers, are having on the book industry. And, I find this all so very interesting, given that it was behemoth stores like Borders and Barnes & Noble that drove smaller independents out of business in the 1990s. Remember "You've Got Mail?"

"They're going hate us at the beginning, but..."

"But we'll get 'em in the end."

"Do you know why?"

"Why?"

"Because we're going to sell them cheap books and legal addictive stimulants."

 

     - Joe Fox to Kevin Jackson, "You've Got Mail."

 
I admit, I do like the convenience of Amazon delivering books straight to my door, or with a Kindle, right to my hand. But, I also like to frequent one of the most beloved and oldest independent bookstores in town, Carmichael's. With two locations, this little shop is managing to thrive, or at least survive, in this economy. Why? Well, my theory is it's because both locations are in older, more urban neighborhoods near other local shops and restaurants, and within walking distance of where many of its customers live. Residents of these neighborhoods are passionate about supporting local retailers. And, Carmichael's made the wise move of partnering with local coffee maker, Heine Bros., so that customers can have easy access to the coffee shop while they peruse through the book stacks. The whole David and Goliath aspect of the small independents competing against such giant chains as Barnes & Noble with their in-store Starbucks, resonates strongly with people in our community.

So, what do you think of the Border's situation? And, do you support a local bookstore? If so, which one and why?
Image from IMG, via Google Images

Good Reads

Hubby made me aware of this super-cool site, that I thought I'd share with you, Good Reads.

"Good Reads" is a social site for readers, where you can create a virtual bookshelf of your favorite books, connect with other friends to see what they're reading/recommending, join book groups, view countless recommendations, browse through endless genres, titles and more. It's a GREAT site for the avid reader.

Well, it's Thursday, which means the end is in site. Thank, God. I'm volunteering at my daughter's school today as lunchroom monitor. Wish me luck. :)
Image from jeanneszewczyk.com, via Google images

Never Thought I'd See the Day...

Did I mention that Hubby gave me a Kindle for Christmas? Yeah, me the hardcover-book-loving-purist got a Kindle. Did I ask for one? No. Do I now love it? YES!!

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would join Team Kindle, but it's pretty darn cool. I can download just about any book at the touch of a few buttons. This can also be dangerous,  because you can quickly rack up the charges with Amazon.

I was worried that I wouldn't like reading from a screen, especially since I spend a great portion of my day in front of a computer. But, there is no glare. It's very viewer-friendly and light. I also feel like I read faster with a Kindle, but maybe that's just me. I did whip through my first e -book pretty quickly. Perhaps I should actually give credit to the author who wrote a very engrossing story, though, rather than the instrument on which I read it. :)

Don't worry, I haven't totally gone electronic with my reading. I also received the final installment of the "Girl" trilogy for Christmas, "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest," which I'm currently reading in hardcopy form. Yes, I'm bopping back and forth between two different stories, one in hardcopy and one on an e-book. I'm weird like that.

Anyone else go to the e-side/dark side recently? If so, what do you think?
Image courtesy of SUNY Press

The World of Gloria Vanderbilt

The new biography of Gloria Vanderbilt, “The World of Gloria Vanderbilt,” written by Wendy Goodman is out. What a fascinating woman Ms. Vanderbilt is and an incredible life she has led, both with plenty of good and bad throughout. Now in her mid-80s, Gloria Vanderbilt has left quite a legacy, yet it’s probably her son, Anderson Cooper, who is more well-known these days.

David Patrick Columbia of the New York Social Diary recounted his first meeting with Ms. Vanderbilt almost 20 years ago:

“She’s the only celebrity I’ve ever met – and I’ve met scores, even hundreds – whose charisma remains large and intact at all times. This is not an act of pretense but rather just the magic of the woman’s personality. Furthermore she’s a beauty, and although age has made its transformations as it does with all of us, with Gloria, you get the feeling that (aside from a little help from her professional “advisers”) that age transforms with her. “That subtle charm that makes young farmers desert the farm,” to borrow from another Cole Porter tune, is hers.”

Fifteen-year-old Gloria Vanderbilt is featured in Harper's Bazarre.

This photograph features a baby Gloria with her mother, Gloria Mercedes Morgan Vanderbilt and her father, Reginald Claypoole Vanderbilt. Her father was in his early forties when he married the teenage Gloria Mercedes Morgan. Mr. Vanderbilt died the year after baby Gloria was born.

I recall watching a miniseries about the life of Ms. Vanderbilt – the custody battle between her mother and her aunt; growing up as one of the wealthiest children in the world; multiple husbands, her designer-jean empire and the list goes on and on. Like any good soap opera, I was drawn to the screen. Yet, this was a true story.

Gloria with her third husband, director Sidney Lumet, at the Cannes Film Festival in 1962. 

Goodman’s biography has the stamp of approval from Vanderbilt herself, and the forward is written by Cooper:

When you have lost, as a child, a father, a mother; when you are raised with the terrible knowledge that nothing is what it seems, and nothing can protect you, you come to understand that anything is possible, anything can happen. Great pain, great pleasure. There is no safety in guarantees.”

My mother learned that lesson early on ...

Gloria lounging with her fourth husband, Wyatt Cooper, father of sons Anderson and Carter.

The book’s art design is by Chip Kidd, probably best known for his work on “True Prep” with Lisa Birnbach. Having received good reviews in the literary world, I may have to add this biography to my Christmas wish list.
Images from The New York Social Diary and Amazon

The 'Birnbach' Watch

If you have been following the "True Prep" book tour on Facebook – and who hasn’t – you’ve seen Ms. Birnbach making the rounds, signing books for green and pink-clad fans across the country. Signings have not only taken place in book stores, but at such preppy outfitters as Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines, Brooks Brothers and Sperry to name a few. At some locations, she’s joined by the bespectacled Chip Kidd, her partner in preppy crime.

Ms. Birnbach with True Prep collaborator Chip Kidd at a book event at Brooks Brothers. See the watch on her wrist? Fabulous! Hey, what kind of drink is that?

If you look really closely at the pics of Ms. Birnbach, you may notice her divine Verdura Beehive Charm Bracelet Watch she's worn to some of the signings. I SO WANT THIS WATCH!

I know that other bloggers have written about this piece of jewelry, so I just had to jump on the bandwagon because it’s so fabulous. I hate to think how much it costs, though. Clearly "The Original Preppy Handbook" and "True Prep" have been good to Ms. Birnbach over the years and likely Verdura is just a drop in the bucket purchase for her.

Birnbach with a young fan at a recent signing, again sporting the famous watch.
  

There’s also a version of the watch that features a pineapple pendant – just as fabulous. So, Hubby, if you happen to be reading this, and are looking for a Christmas idea, perhaps for Christmases 2010 to 2015, you may want to think about the Verdura charm bracelet watch. Thanks so much for your consideration. ;)
Images courtesy of Betteridge, Patrick McMullen, via True Prep Facebook page

Think Pink

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage you to read your kids “Pinkalicious." No big message about BCA, it’s just a great kids’ story. And it’s pink. ;)

Then, read “Purplelicious.” Especially if you have a child who is trying to fit in or wants to embrace something he or she really likes, but is being pressured to follow the masses. Celebrate your unique self, kids. Love pink. Love purple. Or whatever color you like, even if it’s not popular with the rest of the group. Be who you are and don’t try to let anyone try to change you.

As the mom of a kindergartener, I have recently been introduced to the world of “Pinkalicious” and the series of books by authors and illustrators (and sisters) Victoria and Elizabeth Kann. I’ve come to learn that not only are there books, but there are toys, a curriculum guide for teachers, a musical and even a how-to on hosting your own Pinkalicious party. Seriously, why can I never be on the front-end of these ideas??

And, if you purchase any of the Pinkalicious cupcakes from the Crumbs Bake Shop chain (or online), a percentage of the sale will go to the Ink Well Foundation, an organization that pairs professional animators, illustrators, and cartoon artists with hospitalized children so they can create art together.

So, think pink today!
Images courtesy of thinkpinkalicious.com and Cupcakes Take the Cake blog

What I'm Reading

I finished Stieg Larsson's Girl with the Dragon Tattoo over the weekend. Wow, that's quite a story. While it's very graphic and very disturbing at times, I couldn't peel myself away from it. I suddenly found myself staying up far past my bedtime to read yet one more page. And given that I love sleep more than just about anything else on earth, that tells you how engrossing it is.

Now that I've finished the first book in the Lisbeth Salander trilogy, I'm ready to tackle The Girl Who Played with Fire and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest. In fact, I was so wishing that I had the next book to read, I almost ran out to the bookstore last night. But, it was 9 p.m. and I had to show some restraint.

Once I finish the last book in the trilogy, though, that will be it. Larsson died in 2004, therefore no more Lisbeth novels to follow. A film based on the novel was released in 2009. It's a Swedish film with English subtitles, so when I'm good and alert, I plan to watch it. Apparently a Hollywood version is in the works. We'll see how Tinseltown does. Little-known actress Rooney Mara has been cast as Lisbeth and Daniel Craig has been cast as the other main character, Mikael Blomkvist. Now, that is a VERY good thing. :)

I'm sure there are readers out there who will disagree with my assessment of Larsson's novels. Believe me, the subject matter is not for the faint of heart. But, if you like psychologial thrillers, and you can somewhat decipher the pronunciation of the many Swedish towns, restaurants and other businesses featured in the stories (seriously, I've never seen so many umlauts in one publication), then you may find the books appealing.

In other literary news, I finished True Prep. I'll just say I wished I had checked it out from the library instead of spending the money.
Image courtesy of Amazon

Meet My Friend, Tim Gunn

“Make it work, people.”

- Tim Gunn, Project Runway

I am a big fan of Tim Gunn. I love his work ethic, his vision and his tell-it-like-it-is manner. In fact, I’m confident he and I would be GREAT friends in real life. Heck, we already are in my imaginary world. He’s a member of my gay Trinity.

What I like most about him is that he doesn’t break designers down with his critiques. He guides people, educates, but never tears them apart; he’s not mean-spirited. When you see him interact with young designers on the show, you see the former instructor from Parsons – he’s a teacher first.

He’s now on the press circuit promoting his new book, "Gunn’s Golden Rules." While I haven’t read it, I’m surprised to hear that he’s called out some big names in his book -- including Anna Wintour and Isaac Mizrahi -- on their bad behavior.

Now, some people may think that’s burning bridges. But, I for one say, “It’s about time!” I am so tired of seeing ill-behaved, bratty adults rewarded for bad behavior. It’s good to see someone finally shining a light on this and saying, “Hello, world, look at who we are holding up in high esteem – why is this okay?! These are not people to emulate!”

I was really intrigued with Gunn’s comments about Alexis Stewart, only daughter of Martha. Before I read his thoughts about Miss Alexis, I wondered what was wrong with this gal. She co-hosts an XM/Sirius radio program that recaps her mother’s daytime television show, breaking down each scene, and making snarky remark, after snarky remark. Hmm, this is how you treat your mom? Although, it is Martha...

In his book, Gunn calls Alexis “one of the angriest people I’ve ever met,” and recalls making a commercial for Macy’s with her where she constantly cursed her mother under her breath. When Martha arrived to film her scene, he said Alexis treated her very badly in front of others, yet Martha seemed to act as an enabler. He then told of an experience with Martha in which she scolded him on the set of her show, in front of audience members, because he was drinking a Diet Coke, something she deemed unhealthy. Okay. On the oddities between mother and daughter, Gunn said, “There’s something very Grey Gardens going on there.” Okay, anybody who says that is begging to be my friend. Seriously, Tim, we need to get together for some cocktails and gossip. I’ll even let you give my closet a makeover.
Image from Amazon

‘True Prep’ in Hand As I Follow the Lemmings Off the Cliff…

Looky looky what I have …

Yeah, me and every other blogger out there, huh? Oh, well. It’s certainly been quite the buzz and I didn’t want to be left out of the discussion.

Glad to see it’s full of the same Lisa Birnbach wry humor, but sorry to see a typo on page one (Copywriters and English majors the world over cringe). Here’s hoping there’s enough sardonic wit to make me forget this terrible faux pas right out of the gate. From what I've read so far, it's a pretty good follow-up to The Official Preppy Handbook.

So, did you get your copy? What do you think so far?

What I'm Reading: The Season of Second Chances

I just finished a fine novel by author Diane Meier – The Season of Second Chances - and I have to say, I was charmed by this book. It offers many appealing facets: a college town, an old house, a great supporting cast of characters and a protagonist, Joy Harkness, who finds herself experiencing an emotional growth spurt in her late-40s.

Joy Harkness takes a position in the English department at Amherst, leaving behind the college politics of Columbia University and the stark anonymity of New York City. Her journey to Massachusetts is not only a geographical change, but a change within, as this guarded woman finds herself taking leaps of faith that she never thought possible.

At times I was frustrated with Joy’s choice in love interests, not finding them very believable for this academic. But, by the end, I was a believer and saw how necessary it was for her to make these connections, and how they helped her grow into a more accepting, open person.

This novel also is about a love affair with a house. It takes hard work, patience, determination, and perhaps a little dose of insanity, to tackle something that can make or break you, like an old Victorian. As someone who has considered purchasing an older home, the maintenance simply scared me off. So, I was fascinated by Joy’s determination to make what was once a white elephant, her home. As Joy evolves, so does the house; a passage for both entities.

Alas, I don’t want to give too much away of this delightful book, so I encourage you to read it yourself. Meier’s writing draws you in and keeps you captivated until the last page.

For more information, visit: http://www.dianemeier.com/index.php

A special thanks to Leah Paulos for sending me an advance copy of the novel for review. I’m a voracious reader and I’m always on the look-out for the next great read. Thanks for sharing such a jewel with me.
Image courtesy of www.dianemeier.com

Goodbye, Mr. Salinger

The iconic writer J.D. Salinger died yesterday. He was 91 or 92, depending on what media outlet you read. Given his reclusive lifestyle, it’s understandable that there may be differing reports on that front. I read The Catcher in the Rye many years ago and recall being somewhat frustrated with Holden Caulfield. Perhaps I just didn’t have the patience for his male adolescent angst. And, if I revisit it at age 36, I may have even less patience for it. But, you never know. It could surprise me a second time around. I know it resonated much differently with my husband.

In other literary news, I finished Audrey Niffenegger’s Her Fearful Symmetry last night. If anyone else has read that, please let me know and perhaps we can talk “off-blog.” I don’t want to give anything away for those who haven’t read it. But, I would like to discuss it, book-group style. Let’s just say I have some questions and a few opinions to share. I’ll leave it at that.

For all that is good and holy, it’s finally Friday!! I don’t know about you, but it’s been a long, tiring week. Maybe it’s the cold, gray days, but everyone I know is dragging. Even my kids who are usually up early in the mornings have had to be pried from their warm environs. Spring, if you can hear me, could you plan an early appearance this year and stay around for a while? I’d really appreciate it.

At least I have my little get-away to help soothe the winter blues: a UK basketball game tomorrow. Yay! Rupp Arena will certainly be a warm spot on a winter’s day. Hey, it’s the little things that make me happy!

Have a great weekend everyone!
Image courtesy of Amazon.com

What I'm reading...

I received some great books over the holidays, so I’m making my way through them, bit by bit. I first delved into A Pearl in the Storm: How I Found My Heart in the Middle of the Ocean, which is the autobiography of Tori Murden McClure, the first woman to row across the Atlantic solo. She’s also the first woman to ski to the South Pole. Murden McClure lives in my hometown and is very much the local celebrity, but I’ve never known much about her. So, to learn about her life, the struggles she faced in childhood and adolescence, her strong dedication to her mentally-disabled brother and how she went on to achieve amazing things -- often in the face of adversity -- well, I have a new-found respect for her.

Now I’m onto fiction, reading Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger. I loved Niffenegger’s The Time Traveler’s Wife, so I was quite anxious to read this novel. I’ve been glued to the pages each night. Niffenegger has a gift for writing about other-worldly things – she is so creative. I won’t go into great detail about the storyline, so not to give anything away. I’ll just say if you haven’t read it, get a copy soon.

Hope everyone is staying warm. It’s supposed to thaw out a bit later this week. This weekend flew by – not sure where it went. I had a Junior League workshop on Saturday morning, so Hubby took the kids sledding. I then hit Whole Foods on the way home to pick up soup, artisan bread and cookies for our new neighbors. Sunday morning, Hubby and I volunteered in the nursery during Mass. We were surrounded by nine toddlers for an hour. It was fun, though – a great group of kids, including our Little Man. Luckily, another parent helped out, so we could divide and conquer if needed.

Happy Monday, y’all!
Images courtesy of apearlinthestorm.com and Barnes & Noble

'Cheerful Money'

So, I was prompted to buy a book after hearing a review of it last week on NPR. New Yorker writer Tad Friend has written a family memoir, Cheerful Money: Me, My Family, and the Last Days of Wasp Splendor. I had heard about this book, through the blog world in fact, and was highly intrigued by the title. There seems to be a lot of fascination with WASPs in our society, and I guess of late it’s because they’re a shrinking group, thus there’s a certain mystique about them; we’re on the outside looking in.

I certainly am not a WASP (For the record, it stands for White Anglo-Saxon Protestant. I’ve actually encountered people who don’t realize it’s an acronym. Yes, really.) No, being of Irish-German-Catholic descent, I’m too much of a mutt for that group. Not a pure-bred in any way. And, I’m fine with that. My family didn’t come over on the Mayflower. They’re not direct descendents of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. (Although my husband is, but he’s Catholic too, so his family must have gotten lost along the way. :)

But, something I do appreciate about old-school WASPs is that they never talk about money. It’s considered crass. You just don’t do that. Today’s nouveau riche can’t stop talking about money. They tell you how much they paid for everything. Constantly. They share way too much information. Heck, many star in reality shows. Bravo’s “Real Housewives” series is a testament to new money and its gross displays of wealth. Blech.

So, why did I order Tad Friend’s book? First of all, I liked critic Maureen Corrigan’s review and the focus on a different era, a time of romance and a more civilized way of life (for some at least), a view that F. Scott Fitzgerald often took in his works. In The Great Gatsby, Daisy was the WASP, Gatsby the mutt, and he tried so hard to achieve that elusive lifestyle. But even with all of his new money, he would never be “of that class” because he was not to-the-manner-born. Poor Jay Gatsby.

So, if you’re looking for a good read, check out “Cheerful Money.” I can’t wait until my copy arrives.

Family Huddle

I heard a great interview today on NPR with members of the Manning family: Archie, Peyton and Eli. We all know who they are – Peyton is quarterback for the Colts, Eli for the Giants and each have won Super Bowl titles. Their dad, Archie, was an all-star in his day at Ole Miss and went on to play professional football as well.

I’ve always liked these guys – hmmm, could it be because they played in the SEC? But it’s also because I think they’re class acts. They just seem like upright guys who support the communities in which they live (Ever been to Indianapolis? Peyton’s name is on the children’s hospital and he’s involved with many charitable organizations.). You’d never see a Manning caught up in a dog fighting circuit. I’m just sayin’.

Anyhoo, the Mannings have come out with, of all things, a children’s book called “Family Huddle,” about three brothers who play sports and their parents who support them unconditionally (oldest brother, Cooper, played at Ole Miss until an injury derailed his football career; Eli was a star at Ole Miss as well). During the interview, Archie talked about how his own father never pushed him in sports, but encouraged and praised him, and he said he always did the same with his sons. The Mannings are successful because they push themselves and support each other; not because an overbearing parent or coach needled them to be better. They build each other up, they don't tear each other down. There was no spirit- breaking in that family. That’s a refreshing philosophy, especially in a sport that can be brutal in the way it treats young men.

So, cheers to the Mannings. “Family Huddle” is definitely on the Christmas list this year.
Images courtesy of EPSN and NPR