Ann's Reading Corner

"Musing Mondays"

2012-01-30T03:25:00.002-06:00

This week’s musing hosted by MizB asks…

How far along are you in your current read before you start thinking about what you’ll read next?

Sometimes it depends on what my schedule is for the week, I may choose my reading for the week ahead of time. But, I usually don't think about what I will be reading next. Because, depending on whether the book I am reading is a a fast-paced, or deeply intense book, sometimes makes my decision for me. After one of those books, I may decide I just want something light and fluffy.

However, last week I joined in The Winter Respite Read-A-Thon, therefore, I chose my books to read at the beginning of the week. That made things move along a bit better. Because, as I finished one book, I picked up the next one, and started reading it. I started the week off with two cozy mysteries, and finished the week with a "comfort food" book, and the last one was light and fluffy.

Tell me, do you choose your next book to read ahead of time?

"Read-A-Thon" Wrap-Up...

2012-01-28T18:16:00.005-06:00

Michelle at The True Book Addict, hosted this Read-A-Thon 2012. Thanks Michelle.

I managed to read 4 books this week. The four books added up to 928 pages. I didn't keep track of the hours. Following are the four books I read.

The reviews can be found by clicking on the 'review' of each book.

1. The Accidental Florist, by Jill Churchill. Review 1/23/12

2. Goodbye Ms. Chips, by Dorothy Cannell. Review 1/25/12

3. Because of the Baby, by Debbie Macomber. Review 1/27/12

4. The Grand Finale, by Janet Evanovich. Review 1/28/12

I am going to be to busy tomorrow, Sunday, to continue the Read-A-Thon. So I am Wrapping-Up today.

"Read-A-Thon Continues" Reading Corner

2012-01-27T10:07:00.007-06:00

This is my Reading Corner where I read, blog and watch TV.

Today Michelle of The True Book Addict asks us to....

Show us what you cherish...For those of us who are extremely ~~boastful~~ proud of our home libraries, take some photos of your library (or use images you've already taken)

This is where I store more of my books, especially my Vintage books.

This is the bookcase I put the books I have already read.

And of course last but not least is my Nook library. On January 2, 2012 I decided to start my library on the Nook. Since I live in a small apartment, I have less space to store my books. Therefore, decided to try the Nook to help save on my precious space.

OK, Michelle, you asked what would be my dream library if money were no object. This is it....

Wouldn't you like to cozy up with a good book in this little home library?

TIMELINE

I finished #4 book this evening, Saturday, "The Grand Finale" by Janet Evanovich.

"Read-A-Thon Continues"

2012-01-24T06:50:00.012-06:00

The Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon, hosted by Michelle, The True Book Addict .

Every spare minute I will be busy reading. I listed below the books I will try to read as I go along. I hope to lighten my TBR pile by 4 books. That means a lot of mean reading for me.

TIMELINE

I finished #1 book on Monday.

I finished reading #2 book Wednesday.

I will be starting #3 book this evening, Wednesday. I read 50 pages and than off to bed.

Finished #3 book today, Friday and will be starting "The Grand Finale" by Janet Evanovich this evening.

1. The Accidental Florist, by Jill Churchill. Review 1/23/12

2. Goodbye Ms. Chips, by Dorothy Cannell. Review 1/25/12

3. Because of the Baby, by Debbie Macomber. Review 1/27/12

4. The Grand Finale, by Janet Evanovich. Review 1/28/12

"A Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon 2012"

2012-01-21T14:17:00.011-06:00

The Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon, hosted by Michelle, The True Book Addict begans on Monday, January 23 through January 29! It will start at 12:00am Monday and end at 11:59pm on Sunday. Times are central standard time so adjust your times accordingly.

Every spare minute next week, I will be busy reading. I will list below the books I read as I go along. I hope to lighten my TBR pile by 4 books. That means a lot of mean reading for me.

1. The Accidental Florist, by Jill Churchill. Review 1/23/12

2. Goodbye Ms. Chips, by Dorothy Cannell

3. There Goes The Bride, by M.C. Beaton

4. The Grand Finale, by Janet Evanovich

This week MizB at Should Be Reading musing asks…

Why do you think that the Young Adult genre is so popular with even the adult readers? Do you read YA books, yourself?

I think the YA genre is popular with young readers, because it is topics that interest the younger tweens, and teens. It is a lighter, easier book to read, than suspense/thrillers. I really don't know why older adult readers choose to read YA. I personally, have never read a YA book. Therefore, I don't really feel I'm qualified to answer this question, but I gave it a shot anyway.

"Booking Through Thursday"

2012-01-19T08:39:00.000-06:00

I saw this article the other day that asked, “Are you ashamed of skipping parts of books?” Which, naturally, made me want to ask all of YOU.
Do you skip ahead in a book? Do you feel badly about it when you do?

I have to honestly say I don't skip through books, and I do no skipping of the rope either, anymore. But when I was a youngster, I loved skipping rope. I could entertain myself for hours skipping rope. If I tried it for two skips of the rope today, I would be breathless.

The last time I skipped to the end of a book was in 2010, when the book was just so boring, and I had read almost half of it, and I wanted to see who done it, so I skipped to the end and read the last chapter. Did I feel badly about it? No, not really, just relieved not to have to continue reading the boring book.

What say you, do you skip ahead in a book?

WWW Wednesdays

2012-01-17T21:04:00.009-06:00

This meme is hosted by MizB at
Should Be Reading.

To play along, just answer the following three questions...

1. What are you currently reading?

2. What did you recently finish reading?

3. What do you think you'll read next?

I am currently reading two books, which I very seldom ever read two books at a time. I am more of a one book woman.

The first one is Motherhood is Murder, by Diana Orgain.

The other book I am currently reading is

Titanic 2012, by Bill Walker.

I recently finished reading

The Second Mrs. Darcy, by Elizabeth Aston. Review.

What do I think I'll read next? I've been thinking about that, and decided I want something light and fluffy, therefore, I have chosen for my next read,

A Pinch of Love, by Alicia Bessette.

"Musing Mondays"

2012-01-16T08:03:00.000-06:00

Musing Mondays is hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading.

What devices –if any– do you read books on? Do you find it enjoyable, or still somewhat bothersome? Or: If you only read the print books, why haven’t you chosen to read on any devices?

I just recently purchased a Nookcolor (January 2,2012) and have been enjoying it. I decided to start my new year off by buying books on it. I was running out of space on my bookshelves to store new books. Living in a small apartment I've always donated the books I had read to the library, therefore, making space for the new books. However, now I can keep my books as long as I choose.

I still love my print books, and I am sure from time to time I will be buying them, especially, if they are on a bargain table.

What devices, if any do you read books on?

"Aloha Friday"

2012-01-13T11:44:00.000-06:00

Hosted by An Island Life.

I go through so many LazBoy chairs, reading, blogging, watching TV. I find them very comfortable. Today I had this new one delivered to My Reading Corner.

Miss Molly trying it out.

My Question today is...

What do you find comfortable to curl up in and read, blog, or just watch TV, or whatever you do to relax?

"Booking Through Thursday"

2012-01-12T06:25:00.003-06:00

But enough about interviewing other people. It’s time I interviewed YOU.

1. What’s your favorite time of day to read? I enjoy reading anytime of the day.

2. Do you read during breakfast? (Assuming you eat breakfast.) Yes, I am usually on the computer when I eat Breakfast.

3. What’s your favorite breakfast food? (Noting that breakfast foods can be eaten any time of day.) Each morning I have a banana, and two cups of tea. My favorite breakfast food however, would be 2 eggs, bacon, home fries, 2 slices of toast, grapefruit and Tea.

4. How many hours a day would you say you read? Probably 3 or 4 hours, it could be more, I've never kept track of my reading hours.

5. Do you read more or less now than you did, say, 10 years ago? I read a lot more now than 10 years ago.

6. Do you consider yourself a speed reader? No! No! and No! again.

7. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? The power to eliminate insomnia!

8. Do you carry a book with you everywhere you go? Yes I do.

9. What KIND of book? Since I just recently got a Nook, it will probably be the ebook.

10. How old were you when you got your first library card? Probably 36, I was a late bloomer. Actually, we never lived in town, and I didn't get my driver's license until I was 35.

11. What’s the oldest book you have in your collection? (Oldest physical copy? Longest in the collection? Oldest copyright?) Oldest and Longest Physical copy...The Bible. Oldest copyright...Clouds of Witness, by Dorothy L. Sayers, 1927. Oh! I forgot about the Jane Austen books, Sense and Sensibility's copyright is 1811. I'm not sure what Pride and Prejudice's copyright is.

12. Do you read in bed? No, I find it very uncomfortable, but would love to be able to read in bed.

13. Do you write in your books? Yes, there are times when I write in books. I figure it is my book I can write in it if I choose too.

14. If you had one piece of advice to a new reader, what would it be? Set aside a time each day to read, even if it is only for 15 or 20 minutes.

15. What question have I NOT asked at BTT that you’d love me to ask? (Actually, leave the answer to this one in the comments on this post, huh? So I can find them when I need inspiration!) Do you have a favorite season of the year that you enjoy reading more? Sorry that is best I could come up with...

WWW Wednesdays

2012-01-11T07:50:00.011-06:00

This meme is hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading.
To play along, just answer the following three questions...
What are you currently reading?
What did you recently finish reading?
What do you think you'll read next?

I am currently reading "The Longest Trip Home, A Memoir" by John Grogan. Mr. Grogan was famous for the book "Marley & Me." He wrote his memoir before the book "Marley & Me."

I recently finished reading "Bundle of Trouble" by Diana Orgain. It was a delightful cozy mystery. Review.

I think I will read next, "The Second Mrs. Darcy" by Elizabeth Aston. I have never read anything by this author, so I am looking forward to reading this book.

"Teaser Tuesdays"

2012-01-09T21:27:00.000-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read

Open to a random page

Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week I am reading the cozy mystery "Bundle of Trouble" by Diana Orgain.

Jim's hands flew to George's neck, knocking him off balance and to the ground. Jim jumped on top of him, never releasing his grip.

Just then a police cruiser appeared...pg. 114.

"2012 Ebook Challenge"

2012-01-07T18:33:00.006-06:00

So what can I say, I saw this challenge, and since I just purchased a Nook on Monday, I just couldn't pass this Challenge by. So, I said to myself, "what is just one more challenge? I have all year to read a few ebooks." Right?

2012 Ebook Challenge Sign-up

This Challenge is hosted by Sarah at Work A Day Reads.

The 2011 E-book Challenge was hosted by The Ladybug Reads. She has decided not to host it for 2012, and I was the lucky lottery winner who gets to host it. That's right, there was so much interest from people wanting to host it that she had to hold a lottery.

Challenge Guidelines:

This challenge will run from Jan 1, 2012 - Dec 31, 2012.
Anyone can join, you don't need to be a blogger. If you don't have a blog, feel free to sign-up in the comments. You can post reviews to any book site (i.e. Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Goodreads, etc).
Any genre or length of book counts, as long as it is in ebook format.
You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap-up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.
When you sign up in the linky, put the direct link to your post about joining the E-Book Reading Challenge.
You can move up levels, but no moving down.
Sign-ups will be open until Dec 15, 2012, so feel free to join at any time throughout the year.

Levels: I am going to try 1. Floppy disk - 5 ebooks. I may go to CD later.

1. 2012 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. 1/7-8/2012.
2. The Longest Trip Home, by John Grogan 1/12/2012
3. Love At First Sight, by Vincent Zandri 1/22/2012

Floppy disk - 5 ebooks
CD - 10 ebooks
DVD - 25 ebooks
Memory stick - 50 ebooks
Hard drive - 75 ebooks
Server - 100 ebooks
Human brain - 150 ebooks

At the beginning of each month there will be a roundup post for you to add your reviews for that month. If you forget, feel free to add your reviews in the following month. Any reviews submitted will be entered into the draw for that month.

Yes, there will be draws every month for participants. As long as you are signed up below, every review you add to the monthly roundups will get one entry into the giveaway for that month.

There will also be a grand giveaway at the end of the year for eveyone who achieves their goal level (or higher). There may be different prizes for different levels, but that is not decided yet. If you are an author and want to contribute to the monthly or grand prizes, please contact me.

First Chapter, First Paragraph

2012-01-03T08:37:00.000-06:00

Every Tuesday, Bibliophile By The Sea, hosts this meme. I'll be posting the opening paragraph (sometime two) of a book I decided to read based on the opening paragraph (s). Feel free to grab the banner and play along. This week's "intro" is from: "Spinning" by Michael Baron.

I never claimed to have it all figured out. Boasts of that kind of clarity are best left to mystics, religious leaders, or Presidential candidates. For the most part, though, I thought I had figured out most of what I needed to figure out. At 29, I was living in a great apartment in Manhattan, hanging out in the City's hottest places, and putting my MBA to excellent use as one of the youngest executive directors the public relations firm of Mason, Brand and Partners had ever employed. I was convinced that by the time I retired at the age of 40, the universe would remember me, Dylan Hunter, as a world-beater.

Continue reading? Or Not continue Reading?

"Musing Mondays"

2012-01-01T23:27:00.008-06:00

This weeks musing hosted by MizB asks,
What is the first book you're reading for the new year?

I am reading "Spinning" by Michael Baron. He is a new author for me. I've never read any of his books before. So far I've been introduced to Dylan Hunter, 29 years old... A former lover has just showed up with her 3 year old daughter by her side on his doorstep. Dylan suddenly finds himself in a place he can't spin himself out of. That's all I know for now, I have to get back to reading to see where the story is going from here.

What is the first book you are reading for the new year?

"My Life According to the Books I Read in 2011"

2012-01-01T13:43:00.003-06:00

This is a fun meme hosted by Christine at

'The happily ever after' to do at the end of

the year as you reflect on all the book

titles you've read throughout the year.

Using only titles of books that you read

in (2011), complete the prompts

below. Try not to repeat any book

titles. Think creatively and have fun!

Describe yourself:"Finger Lickin' Good", by Janet

Evanovich.

How do you feel:"Some Kind of Wonderful",

by Debbie Macomber.

Describe where you currently live:"Coast Road"by

Barbara Delinsky.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go:

"Waltzing at the Piggly Wiggly" by Robert Dalty.

Your favorite form of transportation:"Half Broke

Horses" by Jeannette Walls.

Your best friend is:"Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte'

You and your friends are:"The Widows of Wichita

County" by Jodi Thomas.

What's the weather like: "Behaving Badly" by Isabel

Wolff.

What is life to you: "Ladybugs and Fireflies", by Cheryl

Alldredge.

Favorite time of day: "Coming Home" by Mariah

Stewart.

Your fear:"The Last Coyote" by Michael Connelly.

What is the best advice you have to give: "Even Cat

Sitters Get the Blues" by Blaize Clements.

Thought for the day:"Blame It On Paris" by Jennifer

Greene.

How I would like to die:"Repairing Rainbows" by Lynda

Fishman.

My soul's present condition: "The Best of Me" by Nicholas

Sparks.

"A New Year, A New Blog?"

2011-12-31T09:47:00.004-06:00

A new year and a new blog!?

I must be a bit tipsy again, what am I thinking creating a new blog? Well, let me tell you...I want a blog where I can keep track of the books I'm reading, and also someplace I can write my own book reviews of those books I've read. My reviews are a bit unconventional compared to others who write such nice book reviews. I have decided to do things 'My Way', be it right or wrong in others minds.

Therefore, starting January 1, 2012 I will be keeping track of the books I'm reading on the new blog, "Book Lust Journal" and writing 'mostly' short reviews. So why not hop right over there for a short visit now.

"Gracie: A Love Story" Review

2011-12-30T18:00:00.001-06:00

Gracie: A Love Story

by George Burns

"SAY GOODNIGHT, GRACIE..."

With those now familiar words, George Burns and Gracie Allen bid farewell to devoted audiences at the end of each of their broadcasts throughout the Golden Age of radio and television. Now, in this moving portrait, George Burns tells the story of his life with Gracie, the dizzy comedienne whose "illogical logic" charmed America. Burns recalls their first meeting, the vaudeville tours, family days in Hollywood, and their lasting friendship with Jack Benny and other entertainment greats. Here is one of America's most beloved comedians remembering the woman he loved best and the extraordinary life they shared together.

My Thoughts:

I was in a Vintage Reading State of Mind, so pulled this book off my bookshelf today to read.

Many of you young people may wonder, Who is Gracie Allen?...Well, let me tell you who she was...There was no one quite like her. Whether in vaudeville, on the radio, in the movies or on television, there was only one Gracie Allen: lovable, confused Gracie. She once decided to cut her vacuum cleaner cord in half so she could save on electricity, and who another time pleaded with her audience, "If I say the right thing, please forgive me." This book tells her story with love and laughter, by the man who knew her better than anyone else: George Burns. This, too, is the story of their relationship...a romance so strong it endured for forty years. This was a funny, moving story about one of America's favorite entertainers.

I liked this book so much I am awarding it 4****

I own this book, it is part of my personal library.

"We Bought A Zoo" Review

2011-12-29T22:16:00.000-06:00

We Bought a Zoo: The Amazing True Story of a Young Family, a Broken Down Zoo, and the 200 Wild Animals That Changed Their Lives Forever

by Benjamin Mee

When Benjamin Mee decided to uproot his family and move them to an unlikely new home...a dilapidated zoo where over 200 exotic animals would be their new neighbors...his friends and colleagues thought he was crazy. Mee's dream was to refurbish the zoo and run it as a family business. The grand reopening was scheduled for spring, but there was much work to be done and none of it easy for these novice zookeepers. Tigers broke loose, money was tight, the staff grew skeptical, and family tensions reached a boiling point.

Then tragedy struck. Katherine Mee, Benjamin's wife, had a recurrence of a brain tumor, forcing Benjamin and his two young children to face the heartbreak of illness and the devastating loss of a wife and mother. But inspired by the memory of Katherine and the healing power of the incredible family of animals they had grown to love, Benjamin and his kids resolved to move forward, and today the zoo is a thriving success.

This story was made into a major motion picture starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson. I am looking forward to seeing this movie.

My Thoughts: I enjoyed reading this book, therefore I am giving it 3***

I read this book for My Animal Reading Challenge.

I own this book, it is a part of my personal library.

"The Romance Reading Challenge 2012"

2011-12-27T16:00:00.007-06:00

1. Spinning, by Michael Baron 1/4/12.
2. The Second Mrs. Darcy, by Elizabeth Aston 1/14/12.
3. A Pinch of Love, by Alicia Bessette 1/22/12
4. Because of the Baby, by Debbie Macomber 1/27/12

Naida, at ...the bookworm is hosting this reading challenge

Here I love you. In the dark pines the wind disentangles itself. The moon glows like phosphorous on the vagrant waters. Days, all one kind, go chasing each other. -Pablo Neruda

I started the Romance Reading Challenge back in 2008 and I
really enjoy hosting it. Now that a new year is soon upon us, The Romance Reading Challenge 2012 will begin again. I hope you
can join! I've added a giveaway this time around.

Nostalgia is sweet...click here if you want to see the first RRC
post.

Without further ado, here are the rules:

1. The challenge runs from January 1st, 2012 through December 31st, 2012.

2. "Romance" isn't limited to steamy Harlequin novels. There is a huge selection of books in this category such as contemporary romance, historical romance, romantic suspense and paranormal romance to name a few. As long as the story has romantic love between the two main characters your selection will fit this challenge. The novels do not need to have a happy ending either, there can also be unrequited love.

3. Choose at least 5 novels to read. You can change your choices
at any time. Crossovers between other challenges are fine.
All kinds of books count such as eBooks, Audiobooks...etc.
If you are looking for suggested reading see Best Romance Novels Today, Romance Novels on Wiki or Best Romance Stories.
In my opinion, you can't go wrong with Jane Austen, Nora
Roberts, Nicholas Sparks and Georgette Heyer.

4. Read the books at your own pace in 2012 then post the
link to your review(s). You don't need to have a blog, posting
your reviews on Goodreads and LibraryThing counts as well.

"2011 End Of Year Book Survey"

2011-12-26T20:17:00.006-06:00

I love end of year survey's, favorite lists, etc. This one is being hosted by Jamie at The Perpetual Page Turner.

1. Best Book You Read In 2011?

"The Midwife's Confession," by Diane Chamberlain.

2. Most Disappointing Book/Book You Wish You Loved More Than You Did?

"The Best of Me," by Nicholas Sparks.

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2011?
"The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer.

4. Book you recommended to people most in 2011?

"The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott" by Kelly O'Connor.

5. Best series you discovered in 2011?

A Patty O'Donnell Mystery Series.

"Blood Money"

"Rio Star" by Pepper Smith
"Reef Runner"

6. Favorite new authors you discovered in 2011?

Michael Connelly and David Baldacci.

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?

"The Lincoln Lawyer" by Michael Connelly.

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2011?

"The Lincoln Lawyer" by Michael Connelly. I read it in two days.

9. Book you most anticipated in 2011?

"Escape" by Barbara Delinsky, and Night Road, by Kristin Hannah.

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2011?

11. Most memorable character in 2011?

Mickey Haller... Haller is a Lincoln Lawyer, a criminal defense attorney who operates out of the back seat of his Lincoln Town Car.

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2011?

I loved this book..."Homer's Odyssey" by Gwen Cooper.

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2011?

This is a toughie. From reviewing my answers, I guess it must be "The Lincoln Lawyer" by Michael Connelly.

14. Book you can't believe you waited UNTIL 2011 to finally read?
"True Colors" by Kristin Hannah.

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2011?
"When you ask, "Mind if I smoke?" even as you're striking the match, realize that most of us will say "no" out of politeness but mean "yes." (From Bad Dogs Have More Fun" page 188)

16. Book That You Read In 2011 That Would Be Most Likely To Reread In 2012?
I'm really not a re-reader of books, but I really liked "The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott," by Kelly O'Connor, so in a few years I may re-read it.

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!

"The Help" by Kathryn Stockett. So many things in that book I would have liked to talked about with someone else who had read the book.

THE END of THE SURVEY

"Musing Mondays"

2011-12-25T23:50:00.001-06:00

This week’s musing hosted by Miz B at Should Be Reading asks…

What books are you most looking forward to reading (and/or buying) in the new year?

I have quite a list of books that I would love to read in the new year. Some on my Wishlist are.... "Death Comes to Pemberly", by P.D. James..."Just Down the Road" by Jodi Thomas..."Out of the Blue" by Isabel Wolff..."From Notting Hill With Love...Actually" by Ali McNamara...."The Longest Trip Home, A Memoir" by John Grogan..."Head Over Heels" by Jill Shalvis..."A Pinch of Love" by Alicia Bessette..."Confessions of a Karaoke Queen" by Ella Kingsley... I could go on and on, because my wishlist just keeps growing.

What books are on your wishlist for the new year?

"A Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon 2012"

2011-12-24T11:53:00.003-06:00

The Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon, hosted by Michelle, The True Book Addict is just a bit over a month away on January 23 through January 29! It will start at 12:00am Monday and end at 11:59pm on Sunday. Times are central standard time so adjust your times accordingly. I plan to host a mini-challenge (or two or more) and there will be a giveaway for every one who signs in at the starting line and completes a wrap up post at the end. Of course, like most read-a-thons, the books read must be novels or novellas, adult or young adult are fine, but no children's books. You DO NOT have to participate the entire week. Join in when you can, start in the middle, end early...whatever works best for your schedule. As long as you sign in at the sign-in post and do some kind of wrap up post, you're in for the giveaway. As with my previous read-a-thons, it will be a week of relaxed reading during which we can personally challenge ourselves and whittle away those ever looming TBR piles/shelves/libraries. I hope you will join me!
You do not have to have a blog to participate. You can sign-up, sign-in, and wrap-up...all from Facebook, Twitter, or Goodreads. You can also do updates from those locations, if you do not have a blog. Also, to chat or update during the read-a-thon on Twitter, use hashtag #WintersRespite.

You do not have to do a post right now, unless you want to help get the word out. Just post a link to your blog (or to your post, if you decide to do one) in the Mr. Linky below.

"Theme Thursday"

2011-12-22T09:42:00.001-06:00

Theme Thursdays is a fun weekly event hosted by Kavyen at Reading Between Pages that will be open from one thursday to the next. Anyone can participate in it. The rules are simple:

A theme will be posted each week (on Thursday’s)
Select a conversation/snippet/sentence from the current book you are reading
Mention the author and the title of the book along with your post
It is important that the theme is conveyed in the sentence (you don’t necessarily need to have the word)
Ex: If the theme is KISS; your sentence can have “They kissed so gently” or “Their lips touched each other” or “The smooch was so passionate”

This will give us a wonderful opportunity to explore and understand different writing styles and descriptive approaches adopted by authors.

Another apt one for the holiday season.

CLOTHES

My THURSDAY THEME for CLOTHES is here.

With a sigh, Charlotte closed her compact, smoothed the soft fabric of her white blouse and dark blue skirt, and settled back into her seat, thankful that her ordeal on the platform was over.

From the book "Keep A Little Secret" by
Dorothy Garlock.

"Finishing the Series Reading Challenge"

2011-12-18T14:21:00.007-06:00

Here are the guidelines:

It's that time of year where we finally admit to our addictions and try to do something about them. Some of us need to admit we have a bit of a problem. Some of us need to admit we have a huge problem. Some of us just really want to enjoy each other's pain and humiliation while completing challenges. (That's why CMash does this... so she can spend the year laughing uproariously at my futile attempts to cut back.)

Cheryl from CMash Loves to Read and Gina from Hott Books are two such people. They each can stand proudly and say,

I am a Reading Challenge Addict.

So they are challenging each of us, so we can also say that we are also a Reading Challenge Addict.

They'll be giving away prizes and recognizing those who are meeting their own expectations by completing the challenges they've entered.

How addicted are you?

Easy as Pie: 1-5 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
On the Roof: 6-10 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
In Flight: 11-15 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
Out of This World: 16+ Challenges (Entered & Completed)

Rules:

We're not making this a difficult challenge, actually, it's going to be very simple!

This challenge will begin on January 1, 2012 and end on December 31, 2012.
Write a starting post joining the challenge and outlining your challenges.
Track all of your challenge accomplishments - good & bad.
Stop by to join us in the mini-challenges, updates & extra giveaways throughout the year.

Easy, right? Who wants to be in on the fun? What else will we be doing? We'll have giveaways for our participants to enter and unannounced special drawings for commenters on the site so be sure to leave your email address with your comment! Are you ready? Sign up here to enter:
Join us to stamp out our addictiveness to reading challenges -- or just help us find more & enjoy our obsessiveness.

Just enter your handle, the link to your sign-up post, and your email address so that I can contact for any possible issues or prizes.

I am going to aim for "Easy as Pie." If you want to see what challenges I am entering in, you can view them to the right on my sidebar.

Yvonne at Socrates' Book Reviews, had this to say: "Okay, I wasn't going to be hosting anymore reading challenges (then again I wasn't going to be joining anymore either and that's not happening - LOL), but I broke down and started this one. I searched all over and didn't see one for this yet so I'm going to start it myself."

It's a challenge for all those series books you started at some point and haven't finished. I know I'll start a series and read the first book, then get distracted with other books and never get back to the series. Before I know it, the series has 10 books - I get overwhelmed and don't go back to it. Now, I want to finish a couple.

Here are the rules guidelines.

1) All books that are part of a continuing series qualify (i.e. Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove, Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum, James Patterson's Alex Cross, etc. etc.)

2) It doesn't matter if you have 1 or 10 books in a series to complete it, it qualifies (i.e. if you only need to read one more Sookie Stackhouse book to complete the goal, that's fine) The goal is to complete a series from wherever you are up to until the last published book.

3) The qualification period is January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. Books must be read during this time frame to count.

4) Take the button above and post about it. Use the Mr. Linky below to sign up, but make sure you link it directly to your post about this challenge.

5) If you don't have a blog, that's fine. Just leave a comment to sign up and tell us what you are reading.

6) Any format of book counts - audio, ebook, etc.

7) You should choose the series you want to finish before the challenge begins, but it isn't necessary. It's fine to change series during the year - as long as you complete whichever series it is.

8) Choose a level....

Level 1 - Complete 1 series.
Level 2 - Complete 2 series.
Level 3 - Complete 3 or more series.

Since I have 2 series (well I have more than 2) I want to read and finish, I will be trying Level 2 - Complete 2 series.

The series are....

"A Maternal Instincts Mystery Series" by Diana Orgain

1. Bundle of TROUBLE (Book 1) 1/10/12

2. Motherhood is MURDER (Book 2) 1/20/12

3. Formula for MURDER (Book 3)

"The Chesapeake Diaries Series" by Mariah Steward

1. Almost Home (Book 3)

2. Hometown Girl (Book 4)

"I Want More 2012 Book Challenge"

2011-12-17T09:06:00.010-06:00

Welcome to Tea Time with Marce

I Want More Book Challenge 2012:

There are so many amazing authors but sometimes we get caught up in reading all the debut authors we forget about the authors that have already impressed us, excited us, gave us what all readers want, a great read, that wow moment, so this Challenge is to show all the authors that have pleased us already how thankful we are by reading more of their literary works.

Have you read 1book by an author and at the end said you must read more? Then this Challenge is for you.

Details:

* Challenge Dates: January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2012

* All Genres are Welcome

* This challenge does NOT include Series, only stand alone

* See Levels below, you can change at any time if increasing, you cannot decrease once signed up.

* All forms of books will count - eBooks, Audiobooks, etc

* You do not have to list the chosen books ahead of time and your choices can crossover into other challenges you have joined. In your post or comments here, give us an idea of what authors impressed you so now You Want More.

* If you participate in this challenge please signup below. Either post and link back here with your direct link to your intro challenge post or put Challenge Button on sidebar linking back here please.

* A Surprise Giveaway during the year (only for those that have reviews posted)

Level of Participation

Waited too long: 2 - 4 books

Give me more: 5 - 8 books

Never too much: 9 - 12 books
My choice of authors are:
John Grogan, The Longest Trip Home. 1/12/2012
Debbie Macomber, Because of the Baby. 1/27/2012
Janet Evanovich, The Grand Finale. 1/28/2012
Michael Connelly
Kate Jacobs
Susan Wiggs
Mariah Stewart
Nancy Bush
Fern Michaels

"Waltzing at the Piggly Wiggly" Review

2011-12-16T17:26:00.001-06:00

Summary:
An irresistible Southern charmer about small-town gossip, second-chance romance, strange weather, and ballroom dancing in the most unlikely places.

Laurie Lepanto is on the horns of a dilemma. Her favorite market, the Piggly Wiggly, of Second Creek, Mississippi, is on the verge of closing its doors, nearly done in by a new Mega-Mart across town. Over the years, the Piggly Wiggly has been more than a supermarket-it's been a community center and town hall, and it's even seen a little romance blossom in its aisles.

Laurie-who has never met a problem she can't solve- is determined to help Mr. Choppy, the Piggly Wiggly's manager, keep his business afloat. She enlists her fellow "Nitwitts," a formidable array of the town's most influential widows, and the town's most eligible silver fox, Powell Hampton, a sixtysomething widower and former ballroom dance instructor. For two hours a week, Powell will waltz-or fox-trot or tango-at the Piggly Wiggly with Second Creek's ladies while the salesclerks do their shopping for them.

In a place like Second Creek, where everyone knows everyone, waltzing at the Piggly Wiggly soon becomes the town's most festive event. And after a few turns around the floor with the handsome and charming Powell, Laurie soon begins to make plans for romance as well as civic renewal.

My Thoughts:
This was just a fun, whimsical book to read. If you are looking to read something deep and thoughtful, this is not the book for you. Since I read a memoir last week and didn't enjoy it much, I wanted something fun to read this week. I chose this book, and it fit the bill, therefore, I am awarding this book 3***

I own this book it is part of my personal library.

"Characters or Plot?"

2011-12-15T00:53:00.001-06:00

What’s more important to you? Real, three-dimensional, fleshed-out fascinating characters? Or an amazing, page-turning plot?
(Yes, I know, they are both important. But if you had to pick one as being more important than the other?

Today, I think my choice is.........an amazing, page-turning plot. Why do I say that? Well, I am reading a book this week that has some fascinating characters, but, it does not have a very strong plot, therefore, it is not an amazing page-turning plot. It is a fun book, a bit whimsical, and I am enjoying it, but for me it is not a page-turner.

How about you, which do you prefer?

"Just For Fun Reading Challenge 2012"

2011-12-13T14:49:00.001-06:00

I decided to join one more Reading Challenge for 2012. The "Just For Fun Reading Challenge." I did this challenge in 2011 and read 12 books from my TBR pile. With this challenge I only have to read one book a month, just for fun. If you are interested in joining this challenge you will find it at Lori's "Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book." She is hosting it again this year.

"What Are You Reading?"

2011-12-12T06:14:00.000-06:00

This is a great way to plan out your reading week and see what others are currently reading as well… you never know where that next “must read” book will come from! Hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

Last week I read Repairing Rainbows, by Lynda Fishman.

This week I will be reading a whimsical book written by Robert Dalby, Waltzing at the Piggly Wiggly. This will be the first time I've read a book by this author.

"Repairing Rainbows" Review

2011-12-09T17:49:00.001-06:00

SUMMARY:
At thirteen years old, Lynda's life comes to a disastrous halt when her mother and two younger sisters are killed in a plane crash. Her father, overcome by despair, simply continues to exist, in a state devoid of hope. After burying a wife and two young children at the age of 44, the overwhelming responsibility of raising a daughter alone completely immobilizes him.

Teetering on that tender brink between childhood and adolescence, Lynda faces the responsibility of a father in a complete state of shock, a house to take care of and hundreds of decisions about how to proceed with their shattered lives. In Repairing Rainbows she candidly describes the agonizing memories, deafening silence and endless hardships that are the fallout of incredible loss. As we follow her through marriage, motherhood and her own spiritual journey, Lynda reveals her complex feelings of hope, anger, pity and determination. Most importantly, she learns the crucial difference between "truly living" and the existence that is so often mistaken for being alive.

A true story, written by a woman whose normal and abundant life hides a terrible past, Repairing Rainbows is loaded with important lessons to help others overcome struggles and obstacles, and fulfill their lives. It is a powerful, captivating, riveting and easy-to-read story that will undoubtedly touch the hearts of its readers.

MY THOUGHTS

I have mixed feelings about this book. I feel like Lynda is struck in a time warp in 1970. It seems like she just cannot move on with her life. Every little thing causes her to return to her grief from 1970. There was so much detail and rehashing of what happened in 1970. She keeps saying 'we have choices, and she chooses to live.' But, for some reason she just could not let go of the past. No matter how much we rehash it, the past just cannot be changed. So we the living have to move on with our lives. Yes we still love our loved ones who have died, and we will never forget them, but there comes a time when we just have to move on.

I think that her father was able to move on a bit better than Lynda could, and was happier than Lynda could understand. I can understand why maybe he wasn't overjoyed to visit her, because she always brought up things that caused hurt feelings between them. I'm sure those visits with her were very difficult for him even though she cannot understand that. In this area we need to remember that we are only hearing her side of the story. We have no idea the sadness he lived with after the accident that took away his wife and two daughters.

I understand some of her feelings, because I lost my father when I was 4 years old, and my mother was left to raise 8 children. (ages 4-17 years old) My mother, sisters, brothers and myself were able to move on even though it was a most difficult time in our lives. My father died suddenly, he was very much missed, but we all moved on with our lives, and remembered all the fun and happy times we had with him. And I feel sure that is what he would have wanted all of us to do.

I gave this book 2** because, I just couldn't connect with Lynda for some reason.

I won this book from a book-giveaway, that Cheryl at CMash Loves to Read hosted. Thanks Cheryl.

"First Line Meme 2011"

2011-12-08T13:06:00.015-06:00

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday. In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I'll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you'd like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link below. Don't forget to visit the other participants! It's a great way to make new bloggy friends!

I found this fun "First Line" meme over @ Suko's blog and had to play along as well.
The idea behind it is: "to take the first line of each month's first post over the past year and see what it tells you about your blogging year."

January 1, 2011
"It's a new year, it's a new day, and a new blog design, and I'm feelin' good."

February 1, 2011
It's a new month and I will be reading three library books the month of February.

March 1, 2011
The current book I'm reading this week is "Oogy," by Larry Levin.

April 3, 2011
My Thoughts: This is the first Michael Connelly book I've ever read. (The Lincoln Lawyer)

May 1, 2011
This Monday the theme is "Songs about the weather or any color."

June 1, 2011
What a lovely way to start a new month, being awarded
with an award.

July 1, 2011
This week-end I am reading this cozy mystery book.

August 1, 2011
I like reading other book bloggers blogs, but whether it sparks ideas for what I will write on my blog, I don't know.

September 1, 2011
My Favorite Book about weather related events is "Nights In
Rodanthe" by Nicholas Sparks.

October 3, 2011
I am looking forward to Nicholas Sparks new book "The Best
of Me" to be released on October 11, 2011.

November 1, 2011
This week I am reading Isabel Wolff's book "The Very Picture of You."

December 2, 2011
My Question is, Which do you prefer: Coffee or Tea?

I have no idea what this says about me, one thing I noticed is I do like to play those fun memes, along with reading books.
How about you......

Do you like playing memes?

"Booking Through Thursday"

2011-12-08T07:03:00.003-06:00

All things being equal, which would you prefer–a mystery? Or a love story?

I really like both, but what I like best is a mystery with a bit of light romance throughout the story. That's it for my answer, how about you which do you prefer?

"How I Got This Way" Review

2011-12-05T20:53:00.004-06:00

SUMMARY;
Emmy Award-winning television star Regis Philbin has entertained millions of Americans every weekday morning for the past 28 years hosting, in various incarnations, the popular show "Live! with Regis and Kelly". Referred to often as the hardest working man in television, he has rubbed elbows and egos with countless personalities. His innate curiosity and wit has enabled him to learn great life lessons from the most legendary and formidable of them. Now in a most unique memoir Regis shares all that these experiences have taught him about achieving success and happiness-and about maintaining both for as long as he has! It is the ultimate gift to his fans as he departed the show in November of 2011, closing one very long and rich chapter of his life to begin yet another. Inspiring anecdotes, laugh-out-loud tales and awkward celebrity moments make this so much more than a memoir-it truly is Regis' personal guide to living a positive life. Marked by same tongue-in-cheek humor and candor Regis has always displayed, this book will serve and endure as a reminder of why America has related to and loved this one-of-a-kind television legend for so many decades.

MY THOUGHTS:
What can I say, The Regis is The Regis, and I am one of those people who is old enough to remember "The Joey Bishop Show", and for the first time seeing Regis Philbin on that late night show. I have always enjoyed Talk Shows, and "Live With Regis" was no exception. I loved watching him and Kathie Lee, and than later Kelly Ripa as his co-host on those morning shows.

In this book Regis relates many stories of how he struggled over the years to become a talk show host. He writes about many people who were and are special to him in one way or another. It was a most enjoyable book to read, and I would recommend it to any Regis Philbin fan. I liked it so much I am awarding it 4****

I read this book for "My Just For Fun Reading Challenge." I have now completed that challenge.

This book is part of my own personal library.

"Musing Mondays"

2011-12-05T07:31:00.003-06:00

This week’s musing asks…

How many books do you read in a week? Month? Year?

Each year is different. This year so far I have read 117 books. However, last year (2010) I read somewhere around 70 books. This year (2011) I guess on the average I read 2.5 books each week. I will probably be reading at least 1 book a week in 2012, depending on how many pages the book has. Chunkier books will take longer. I don't plan on reading as many books in 2012, but we'll see.

Many years ago when I was raising a young family, and doing my farm chores, I joined the Reader's Digest Condensed Book Club, so if I found a few spare minutes I had something to look forward to, to read. I still love those books and look for them at yard sales, and library sales. I actually have told my local library if anyone donates them I would buy them, since they no longer display them on their shelves.
I keep track of the books I've read this year... here.

How many books do you read each year?

"Aloha Friday"

2011-12-02T08:26:00.009-06:00

My Question is:

Which do you prefer: Coffee or Tea?

I prefer Tea to start my day.

The first snowfall of 2011-12 season in my little corner of the world.

During the night

the snow silently floated

down from the sky

beautifying everything

it touched.

BTW, do you like snowy weather?

"Wordless Wednesday"

2011-11-29T20:39:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

"It's Monday What Are You Reading?"

2011-11-27T23:55:00.003-06:00

This meme is hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

This past week I read...Bonnie K. Winn's book, Family by Design.

I am listening to Debbie Macomber's 204 Rosewood Lane.

And I will be reading the book, Forsaking All Others, by LaVyrle Spencer.

And I am aiming to read another book this week by Ms. Spencer, A Promise to Cherish.

LaVyrle Spencer has always been one of my favorite authors, but sadly she retired from writing in 1997. So I am always on the lookout for books by her in used bookstores, yard sales, and library book sales.

"Cover Art Weekend Blog Hop"

2011-11-25T08:45:00.001-06:00

This is a meme, hosted by Yvonne at Socrates' Book Review Blog to display all those beautiful, funny, crazy and even those that make you think book covers you come across each week. For the rules visit Yvonne's blog.

"Reading Romances Challenge 2012"

2011-11-23T13:17:00.000-06:00

The Reading Romances Challenge is not about the amount of books you read, but the variety of titles you’ll have read when the challenge is over! Our goal is to read a bit of everything related to romance and open our minds to new genres we wouldn’t usually read.

Challenge Guidelines:

The 2012 Reading Romances Challenge will run from Jan 1, 2012 – Dec 31, 2012.
Anyone can join, you don’t need to be a blogger. Feel free to sign-up in the comments – you can post reviews to any book site (i.e. Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Goodreads, etc).
I’ll post a list of romance sub-genres and a few cool themes for you to choose from each month (you can read all of them or just a couple).
You can list your books before reading them or just put them in a wrap-up post. If you list them, don’t feel obligated to read them, changes are welcomed!
When you sign up in the linky, put the direct link to your post about joining the Reading Romances Challenge.
You don’t have to participate every month, but please try to!
Sign-ups will be open until Dec 15, 2012, so feel free to join at any time throughout the year.

I will never tell you to read one specific author, but I might suggest a few titles and authors to give you some ideas.
You can read the same author more than once and the books can be old or new, but they must be read during the course of the challenge.
Books used in this challenge may be used in other challenges.
Books can be in any format – paper, audio, ebook.
Post the button to post on your sidebar, this way others can find their way back to this post and join in the fun!

At the beginning of each month there will be a roundup post for you to add your reviews for that month. If you forget, feel free to add your reviews in the following month.

There will also be random giveaways during the year for everyone who is actively participating on the challenge. There might be special giveaway by the end of the year for those who read all the topics during each month . If you are an author and want to contribute with prizes, please contact me.

"Musing Mondays"

2011-11-20T22:36:00.001-06:00

This week’s musing hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading asks…

How do you decide to read a book by an author you haven’t read before? What sort of recommendations count most highly in making that decision?

Most of the time I read the dustcover, or the blurb on the back of the book. Other times I may go to Goodreads and check out what others who have read the book had to say about it. And of course I read a lot of the other book bloggers reviews, and find a lot of new books by new authors after visiting their blogs.

"Audio Books & Crocheting"

2011-11-19T17:01:00.009-06:00

This week-end I decided to listen to Debbie Macomber's, "16 Lighthouse Road." I have about 26 audio books, but for some reason I never seem to take the time to listen to them. So far this year I have managed to listen to four of the audio books, and this one will make five. However, the next few weeks that is going to change...

I plan on doing some crocheting, so decided to listen to a few of the ever mounting pile of audio books. I figure I will be 'killing two birds with one stone', so to speak. (I wonder where that saying ever came from anyway?) I wonder if anyone else buys audio books, and then fines it difficult to listen to them? I find with a paper book, I can carry it with me and read it anywhere, but, with an audio book, it stays at home in the CD player. But I must say in defense of the audio books, I love listening to them, just seems I have to be doing something while I listen to them. If I'm not doing something else, I fall asleep. But, than again I like a little snoozing once in awhile!

What am I crocheting this week-end? This baby afghan...for my Great-granddaughter, Brooke, scheduled to be born on January 12, 2012.

"Booking Through Thursday"

2011-11-17T05:22:00.001-06:00

Of the books you own, what’s the biggest category/genre?

Is this also the category that you actually read the most?

My answer will be short and sweet....Looking through my books, it looks like the biggest category is "Cozy Mysteries" with a close second "Light Romance." They are the categories I actually read the most.

"Behaving Badly" Review

2011-11-12T15:27:00.000-06:00

Summary:
Saying all men are dogs is an insult to canines everywhere . . .

For animal behaviorist Miranda Sweet, pets beat people -- paws down -- and she's convinced that animals are sweeter, softer and a lot more predictable than the men she's been dating lately. So when she opens up her own animal clinic, she decides to focus on the species she understands, and forget about trying to fathom the murky depths of the male psyche.

While schizophrenic schnauzers and confused canaries are benefiting from her professional ministrations, her best friend Daisy is convinced that Miranda needs a little therapy, as well. Enter dishy photographer David. Even Miranda begins to think she may have been just a tad hasty in her analysis of men, and she finds herself reconsidering her position.

But just as she lets her guard down, her own past reappears, and Miranda must come to terms with the fact that she hasn't always been as sweet as she'd like to believe . . .

My Thoughts:
The first book I read by Isabel Wolff was "A Vintage Affair", which I read in 2010. Just a few weeks ago I read her book "The Very Picture of You", and I really liked both books, so I went hunting and found this book by Ms. Wolff "Behaving Badly", and I loved it. It was such a charming, and fun book to read. Of course having animals talked about throughout the book as well as a wonderful story made it a page turner for me. Did I say I loved this book?

I read this book for My Animal Reading Challenge. Now since I loved it I am awarding it 5*****

I own this book, it is in my personal library.

"Booking Through Thursday"

2011-11-10T00:34:00.001-06:00

E-readers like the Kindle and iPad are sweeping the nation … do you have one? Do you like it? Do you find it changes your reading/buying habits? If you don’t have one, do you plan to?

I haven't bought an e-reader yet! Right now I have quite a few books on my TBR pile, and until I read them I can't justify buying an e-reader. I am one of those persons who cannot go in a bookstore and come out without a book. However, I am leaning toward buying one, but I think before I would buy one I would have to borrow one from a friend and see if I would like it. Time will tell.

"Teaser Tuesdays"

2011-11-07T22:24:00.003-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read

Open to a random page

Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week I am reading "The Garner Files" a memoir, by James Garner and Jon Winokur.

People have no idea how physically punishing it is to do an action series. You're producing twenty-two one-hour movies every year. You're on the set fifteen hours a day with no time to do anything else, but get a few hours sleep before you have to start all over again. Wore me down to a nub! (page 132 HC)

"2012 Cruisin' thru the Cozies Reading Challenge"

2011-11-06T15:10:00.006-06:00

Yvonne at Socrate's Book Reviews is hosting this fun looking Challenge, and since I read quite a few cozies, I decided to join her Challenge.

Welcome to the second annual Cruisin' thru the Cozies Reading Challenge! My interest in the cozies hasn't diminished in the past year. If anything, it has increased. LOL So, this is one reading challenge I plan to continue hosting.

I love cozy mysteries and I want to read more of them this year. To find out exactly what a cozy mystery is, check out Cozy-Mystery.com. This site is dedicated to cozy mysteries and does a great job of defining them as well as giving a list of cozy mysteries. This challenge is NOT restricted to what is on their list, it's just to be used as a guideline in case you need some hints on what to read.

So, here are the rules...

1. Choose the level you wish to participate:

Level 1 - Snoop - Read at least 6 books
Level 2 - Investigator - Read 7-12 books
Level 3 - Super Sleuth - Read 13 or more books

2. The challenge runs from January 1, 2012 and ends December 31, 2012.

3. You don't have to choose your books in advance. If you do, you can change your list at any time during the year. Books can overlap with other challenges.

4. Books can be in any format - paper, audio, ebooks...it all counts!

5. You don't have to post a review, but I'm sure others would love to know about the books you are reading and may even want to add it to their reading lists.

NOTE: If you don't have a blog and want to participate, that's fine. You don't have to have a blog, just post in the comments section as you finish books.

6. Take the button above, put it on your blog and post about the challenge. Then add your name to Mr. Linky below...Please use the link of your challenge post, not the link to your home page.

Have fun!

I have decided to try Level - 3 - Super Sleuth - Read 13 or more books.

1.Bundle of Trouble, by Diana Orgain 1/10/12

2. Motherhood is MURDER, by Diana Orgain 1/20/12

3. The Accidental Florist, by Jill Churchill 1/23/12

4. Goodbye, Ms. Chips, by Dorothy Cannell 1/25/12

10.

11.

12.

13.

"MOUNT TBR READING CHALLENGE 2012"

2011-11-05T09:58:00.016-05:00

Bev is hosting this challenge over at My Reader's Block. It is the one I just couldn't pass up.

If you are a bookaholic like me, then you can't let a bookstore (used or new, it doesn't matter) go by without stopping in ("just to look") and walking out with at least something--if not an armload.

Challenge Levels:Pike's Peak: Read 12 books from your TBR pile/s
Mt. Vancouver: Read 25 books from your TBR pile/s
Mt. Ararat: Read 40 books from your TBR piles/s
Mt. Kilimanjaro: Read 50 books from your TBR pile/s
El Toro: Read 75 books from your TBR pile/s
Mt. Everest: Read 100+ books from your TBR pile/s

And the rules:
*Once you choose your challenge level, you are locked in for at least that many books. If you find that you're on a mountain-climbing roll and want to tackle a taller mountain, then you are certainly welcome to upgrade.

*Challenge runs from January 1 to December 31, 2012.

*You may sign up anytime from now until November 30th, 2012.

*Books must be owned by you prior to January 1, 2012. No ARCs, no library books. No rereads.

*Books may be used to count for other challenges as well.

*Feel free to submit your list in advance (as incentive to really get those books taken care of) or to tally them as you climb.

*A blog and reviews are not necessary to participate. If you have a blog, then please post a challenge sign up and link THAT post (not your home page) into the linky below. Non-bloggers, please leave a comment declaring your challenge level.

*A progress site for reviews will go up in January and I will post the link in my sidebar for easy access.

I am thinking about climbing Mt. Ararat, that would mean reading 40 books on my TBR pile, in 2012. I can always upgrade to Mt. Kilimanjaro later if I chose.
1. Spinning, by Michael Baron**** 1/4/12
2. Bundle of Trouble, by Diana Orgain****1/10/12
3. The Second Mrs. Darcy, by Elizabeth Aston**** 1/14/12
4. Motherhood is MURDER, by Diana Orgain**** 1/20/12
5. A Pinch of Love, by Alicia Bessette*** 1/22/12
6. The Accidental Florist, by Jill Churchill** 1/23/12
7. Goodbye, Ms. Chips, by Dorothy Cannell* 1/25/12
8. Because of the Baby, by Debbie Macomber****1/27/12
9. The Grand Finale, by Janet Evanovich***1/28/12
10.
11.
12.

"The Very Picture of You" Review

2011-11-03T23:23:00.002-05:00

Summary:
At thirty-five, Gabriella Graham—“Ella” to her family and friends—has already made a name for herself as a successful portrait artist in London. She can capture the essential truth in each of her subjects’ faces—a tilt of the chin, a glint in the eye—and immortalize it on canvas. This gift has earned Ella commissions from royals and regular folks alike.

But closer to home, Ella finds the truth more elusive. Her father abandoned the family when she was five, and her mother has remained silent on the subject ever since. Ella’s sister, Chloe, is engaged to Nate, an American working in London, but Ella suspects that he may not be so committed. Then, at Chloe’s behest, Ella agrees to paint Nate’s portrait.

From session to session, Ella begins to see Nate in a different light, which gives rise to conflicted feelings. In fact, through the various people she paints—an elderly client reflecting on her life, another woman dreading the prospect of turning forty, a young cyclist (from a photograph) who met a tragic end—Ella realizes that there is so much more to a person’s life than what is seen on the surface, a notion made even clearer when an unexpected email arrives from the other side of the world. And as her portraits of Nate and the others progress, they begin to reveal less about their subjects than the artist herself.

A picture is worth a thousand words, and in Isabel Wolff’s vibrant and textured story, these words are brilliantly crafted to convey the humor, mystery, and beauty that exists within each of us.

My Thoughts:
I found this book a fast moving, and fun book to read. Not being an artist or knowing much about painting pictures I wasn't sure if I would enjoy the book, but to my surprise, I found I really liked the book. I liked it so much I am giving it 4****

I read this book for My Just For Fun Reading Challenge this month.

I own this book, it is part of my personal library.

"Booking Through Thursday"

2011-11-03T06:02:00.001-05:00

All other thing being equal, would you rather read a book that’s hard/challenging/rewarding or light/enjoyable/easy?

This is going to be a short and sweet answer....Since I read for entertainment, I would have to say I like light/enjoyable/easy books to read.

How about you, which do you prefer?

"Fun On The Run"

2011-11-01T18:39:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Tinas Pics

"Teaser Tuesdays"

2011-11-01T07:50:00.000-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week I am reading Isabel Wolff's book "The Very Picture of You."

The changing room was very big, with two carved mahogany chairs with blue velvet seats, like thrones. Hanging from the antique brass pegs were several wedding gowns, just visible inside there muslin bags, like cabbage white butterflies about to emerge from their chrysalises.

(HC page 136.)

"Musing Mondays"

2011-10-31T08:38:00.002-05:00

This week’s musing hosted by Miz B at Should Be Reading asks…

Would you say that you read about the same amount now as when you were younger? More? Less? Why?

I read a lot more than I did when I was younger. While in school I read only required reading books, and the books I had to read to write up book reports.

While I was raising my children (5) I read some books, but very few, because I was busy with real life work, etc.

Now that I am retired I read books for entertainment. I find so little on TV to watch now a days, that I enjoy, that I have learned I love reading even better than watching TV. I use to watch TV so much that I called myself a TVoholic, but no more... I love reading my books!

I don't write many book reviews, but if you would like to view the books I've read this year go here.

"Wordless Wednesday"

2011-10-25T18:28:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

"Musing Mondays"

2011-10-24T00:04:00.002-05:00

Musing Mondays is hosted by Miz B at Should Be Reading.

This week's musing asks…

Do you listen to audiobooks? Why, or why not?

I have listened to a few audiobooks. I especially like listening to Memoirs when they are read by the authors. Two I recently listened to were: "Home" by Julie Andrews, and "If You Ask Me..." by Betty White. I've also listened to a few novels. I plan on listening to some audio books in the next few months. Why? So I can crochet baby afghans for the new Great-grandbabies due in January, and May, 2012.

"Cover Art Weekend Blog Hop"

2011-10-22T07:20:00.001-05:00

This is a meme, hosted by Yvonne at Socrates' Book Review Blog to display all those beautiful, funny, crazy and even those that make you think book covers you come across each week. For the rules visit Yvonne's blog.

Where the eye sees the brushstroke, the heart sees the truth.

From Isabel Wolff, the internationally bestselling author of A Vintage Affair, comes a beguiling novel about artistic inspirations, family secrets, and the courage to turn one’s life into a masterpiece.

Since I enjoyed Isabel Wolff's book, "A Vintage Affair" I noticed her new book "The Very Picture Of You" at B&Ns one day this week, while meandering through the store. The cover caught my eye, and how thrilled I was when I noticed it was Isabel's new book. How could I resist not bringing it home with me?

"A Day At The Zoo" Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-18T19:17:00.012-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Evan and Mady dancing?

Daddy, Mady and Evan

That's Auntie with Mady running.

"Aloha Friday"

2011-10-14T08:57:00.004-05:00

Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link below. Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

My question is....

Which would you rather do, read a good book, or talk on the phone?

I definitely am not a phone person. The only time I talk socially on the phone, is when someone calls me. I would much rather be reading a good book, that is when I am a happy camper.

"Booking Through Thursday"

2011-10-13T08:39:00.002-05:00

If you could get a sequel for any book, what would it be?

I am not much on sequels for books or movies. I think a good book is hard to follow with a good sequel. It seems to me a sequel never can top the first book. They either do a lot of repeating of the first book, or prolong the plot, and just fall on their face.

I recently read "The Help" and saw the movie over the week-end, maybe a sequel could let us know what happened to all The Help after the book was written. But, like I said before, Why spoil a good thing????