First of all, I just want to take a quick minute to thank all of you who take a moment or two (or three or seven or ninety, depending on how long-winded I’m feeling) out of your day and stop by this site. And actually read it. And even better, leave a comment or a question or send me an e-mail. Because I am a shallow, pathetic, self-absorbed, egocentric, needy individual who derives great satisfaction out of the thought that somebody besides *ME* drives the site counter up each day. More on this later.
I do read every single comment and e-mail, and embarrassingly, haven’t answered quite a few in quite a while. So today, we’re doing a bit of housekeeping, which is fancy talk for “OHMYGAWSHWOMAN clean out your inbox and apologize to these poor people for your lazy, slothful behavior already!!”
So here we go:
Rhonda in Texas, who requested book suggestions for her beach trip (which she went on a MONTH AGO do you see what I mean about how tardy I am????) (Sorry, Rhonda, but better late than never):
Books I’ve read lately that I recommend:
Come Back; A mother and daughter’s journey through hell and back by Claire Fontaine
Vanishing Acts by Jodi Piccoult (Basically, I recommend anything by Jodi Piccoult)
The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Breaking the Code; Two teens reveal the secrets to better parent-child communication by Lara Fox and Hilary Frankel
Boys Will Put You On A Pedestal; So they can look up your skirt by Philip Van Munching (pretty much required reading for anyone with a daughter -- and, it’s highly entertaining)
Dry by Augusten Burroughs (make sure you’ve read the prequel Running With Scissors)
The Alaska Traveling Companion by Joe Upton (but I only recommend this if you’re actually **going** to Alaska, otherwise, you won’t much care about the steam-powered rotary snowplow located in Skagway which kept the mountain passes open that has recently been restored. Or at least I don’t think you will.)
Ready, Freddy! Don’t Sit on My Lunch! by Abby Klein (Hey, I didn’t say they were all books that I read to myself! I try to help my kids fulfill those required summer reading hours -- quality time, blah blah)
Books I’ve read lately that I do NOT recommend:
The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards (Am I the only person on earth who thought this was the most boring book ever??? And that this couple was so dysfunctional I couldn’t even care about them and their boring, dysfunctional relationship???)
Annie Freeman’s Fabulous Traveling Funeral by Kris Radish (gave up after the second chapter … that should tell you something)
The Abs Diet by David Zinczenko (shockingly, after reading this book, my abs did not become ripped and muscled, all on their own, through the power of osmosis, like I hoped they would. Perhaps I should try actually following a few of the author’s suggestions regarding diet and exercise. In that he suggested I actually DO them. Gack.)
Design Ideas for Bathrooms and Design Ideas for Kitchens (while informative, and probably very helpful for those of you about to embark on a remodeling project, they’re not something I’d recommend for a little light reading.)
Additional suggestions welcome. I’m a voracious reader, and am always looking for a good title. Still need to check out The Mitford Series, don’t I? In the meantime, I’m waiting none-too-patiently for my pre-ordered Harry Potter 7 to arrive in just a few weeks!! So do not expect any blog entries from me for however many straight hours it takes me to start and then finish that book, because I will not tolerate any interruptions while I am reading it, because I’ve GOT to know what the heck happened to Dumbledore in the last book, and how on earth she’s going to make Snape into a good guy because I believe with all my heart he’s a good guy he’s just GOT to be, don’t you think he’s a good guy???? And, and, and ….. (don’t get me started on HP … just don’t)
Katie in New Orleans: regarding your question about the bone marrow registry -- first of all, kudos to you and all the people who signed up, or are considering signing up!!! I checked with Cindy of Jay’s Hope regarding your question about herniated discs, and this is the answer I received:
“In some cases, we do accept donors with herniated discs, but usually it has to be just ONE disc with little to no pain or complications. It would also have to be several years out from the injury. With EIGHT herniated discs, I believe they would say no for the donor's protection. When they collect the marrow from the hip, they go in very close to the spine. Any manipulation of an "unhealthy" spine could cause serious damage.
Let me know if I can answer any other questions. “
So, Katie, I don’t think that was the answer you were looking for, but I hope it was helpful, anyway, and even if you can’t donate, thanks for encouraging others to do so with your example of willingness!
Federica from Italy: Not even related to your question, but how cool is it that people from all over the world can communicate like this?? I mean, Italy! That’s like, in Europe! (Europe? Right??? I’m really, really bad at geography. I know Italy is the little boot thing …. Doesn’t it hang down below England? Hey speaking of England, do you know Angela? She reads here, too! Well, no, wait. Angela's in France. See what I mean about how bad I am???) Sorry, off on a tangent. Anyway, Federica, I am not at all offended that you didn’t like Diet Dr. Pepper -- at least you tried it!! Could you maybe teach my kids that lesson regarding all the summer vegetables??? And since you asked, I’ll make it a point to post an occasional scrapbook page or two. If I ever actually completed any lately. Which I probably won’t because I never seem to get my behind out of my computer chair. I tell you, I’m letting the internet suck my life away, and I definitely need to do something about it. But not tonight, because I’ve got to get caught up on my favorite blogs and celebrity gossip sites.
Lisa from a few miles down the road: Hey, girlfriend, when are we taking these kids swimming? Mine are already driving me crazy this summer, whine, whine, whine, we’re bored, there’s nothing to do, blah, blah. Oh, wait. Sorry, you asked a question. That was Kellen in the raccoon Halloween costume, at age one and a half, and if I could just say, he was pretty much the cutest nocturnal mammal EVER! That Halloween we were in Ohio, and I had prepared for the Arctic late-October weather by putting him in that raccoon costume, Brayden in a polar bear costume, and had layered sweat pants and fleece shirts underneath the costumes for both kids, complete with stocking caps to keep their little heads warm. Naturally, it was about 70 degrees that night and I’m amazed they didn’t both suffer heat stroke.
Lyndall of FL and Anonymous, whoever you are: The Tim McGraw song playing was called “Wherever the Trail May Lead” and was from the Disney Home on the Range soundtrack. The first time I played it was on Kendrie’s Caringbridge site, when she started her sixteen months of Maintenance Therapy and I wasn’t sure what lay ahead for us, but felt the words of the song, about sticking together and getting her through, were pretty poignant. When it came time for mine and Blaine’s anniversary entry, I couldn’t choose between that song, or the dance version of “I Was Made For Loving You” by Kiss which really, really, rocks ….. needless to say, poignancy won, and I’m glad you liked it. I agree, it would make a fab wedding song.
Abbie in Des Moines: For your information, missy, that flannel (yes, I said FLANNEL) dress was quite high fashion for the time. We’re talking mid 1990’s, when craft and antique fairs were sweeping the country. Not only was it flannel, PLAID flannel, there were also puffy paint snowmen on the chest, and snowflake buttons down the front. I paired it with a brown turtleneck shirt and brown riding boots and considered myself quite stylish. (Dear Lord, it’s still in my closet -- don’t tell anyone! -- On second thought, contact “What Not to Wear” immediately!!)
OK, more questions tomorrow -- but before I go -- HUGE shout out to Postcard Cindy!!! Do you have any idea how happy you made our girl? She made Blaine re-arrange the furniture in her room, to make wall space, and put the poster up THAT VERY NIGHT before she would go to bed! Seriously --- you hit a bulls-eye with that one and I thank you sincerely!
Now, the rest of you, post your book recommendations in the comments section because I’ve got a vacation coming up, and many, MANY hours of air travel ahead of me, and if you think I’m going to sit and talk to Blaine the entire time, like I ***lurve*** him or something, you’re crazy. Send me some book suggestions!
70 comments:
Hey there Kristi,
I just read a good book. It was written by a Marine Wife, and really hit a tender spot with me, and probably most military wives. I usually don't read a lot of the "military" books but the title of this one really caught my eye, and it is a part of the Military Spouses book club.
Shared Courage by Michelle Keener.
Glad you had a good time on your trip. Loved the pics, how was the bus ride home?
Mesha in NC
I just have to say thanks for the book suggestions. If my kids every let me have a moments peace...I'll be reaching for one of those! And I'm super excited about the Harry Potter book too!
Hi Kristi,
I too am a voracious reader...I read when I take a bath, while I dry my hair, etc.
Have you read The Pact, Mercy or Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult? All Really Good. I have enjoyed everything that she has written.
I Heard That Song Before by Mary Higgins Clark
The Shopaholic series..very light reading, but funny.
Anything written by Steven Frey
Wild Fire by Nelson Demille
Good Grief by Lolly Winston
Stalemate by Iris Johansen
anything written by Richard North Patterson
anything written by David Baldacci--heard his latest, Simple Genius is AWESOME. I am waiting to read that one on my vacation!
The Best Revenge by Stephen White. I actually love everything he writes.
Hide by Lisa Gardner
Last Witness by Jilliane Hoffman
As you can tell, I love mystery stuff, but I also read a bunch of the Oprah book club books and the books I find at Target. I loved Annie Freeman and the Traveling Funeral..however, I know a bunch of people who didn't finish it. Another book she wrote, The Sunday Book of Lists is fun.
Enjoy! Please continue to share your lists!
I'll have to think on the book suggestions. I usually read a lot of murder mystery books that I pick up at the local library sale. But lately, I've been re-reading Harry Potter so it's all fresh in my memory when the new book comes out. I'm on book 5 now. Timing should be perfect.
Briana
I always enjoy reading your blog, but it takes the mention of books and Harry Potter to get me to post! I can hardly WAIT for HP7 to be released and have been reading every fan site and essay I can find in eager anticipation. My kids and I are also re-listening to Book 6 whenever we're in the car right now. The reader on the HP audiobooks is the BEST. He does the greatest voices and is highly entertaining.
I read a lot, and the best book I've read so far this year is The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. Last year two of my favorites were Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen and Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson.
Loved your beach pictures. Thanks for sharing!
I second that about Jodi Picoult - love her books! Another great author is Jonathan Kellerman. I cannot put down his books.
Rachel in TX
Kristi,
Try Author Meg Cabot (AKA Meggin Cabot). My favs of hers are "Size 12 is not fat" followed by "Size 14 is not fat either". She also wrote "Every boy has one", and "The Boy Next Door". I recently read all 4 & they are light & funny. She is the author that wrote the Princess Diaries series, but I haven't read any of those. I also love Jodi Piccult. Janet Evanovich is good light reading too ("One for the Money" is the first in a series about character Stephanie Plum. The series is currently up to #12, but I wouldn't recommend reading them all in a row.) Thanks for the tips, I have been meaning to read that one about boys/skirts, but hadn't heard any reviews. I'll have to check it out!
Rachel in Grand Forks, ND
I was just at the library today searching for some good books (didn't really find any)! Now I have to go back!! Thanks for the suggestions!!
By the way, I LOVED anything by Augusten Burroughs. I started with one book, then read them all. I did the same thing with Jodi Picoult!! I loved My Sisters Keeper.
I just got done reading Come Back. I thought it got a bit slow at times, but overall was pretty good.
Have your read any of the Shopaholic series? They are so funny!
I am also really looking forward to my Harry Potter book to be delivered. Except I have a horrible memory, so I need a refreasher on the other books. I found this cool site awhile ago that gave synopsis's on all the books. I need to find that again!
Two comments in one week...I'm getting good at this! My all time favorite book is called When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin. It is a book about the heart that will touch your soul. I read a lot, at least 30 books a year, and this one tops the list. Plus, it is set at Lake Burton in North Georgia. There are lots of references to our fine state. He has written several others that I haven't read, but I'm going to buy a couple for Lighthouse next week. I'll let you know how they are.
Another good one: Eden Close by Anita Shreve
Have you read any Diana Gabaldon? She is really hard to classify - historical fiction, fantasy, and romance all mixed together I also like Sara Donati and Sharon Kaye Penman. Both are historical fiction - Donati is US early 1800's, Penman is medieval Europe. Penman also writes historical mysteries - very cool.
I also love Jodi Piccoult and Janet Evanovich. For lighter reading I like Susan Mallery and Katie MacAllister. I teach 5th grade and just read "Hattie Big Sky" - Newberry Honor book and good for kids and adults.
Nothing will be done in my house either when HP7 arrives on the door step. I'm considering hiring a babysitter for the day so I can read uninterrupted!
Sorry forgot to include my name above - I'm Julie in Madison, WI
Its been a while since anything has topped "White Oleander" for me by Janet Fitch, although I hear she has a new book out...have you read it? WO is about a girl going through the foster care system in LA, which I have worked in, and so was very impressed at how true-to-life Fitch's book was.
My hubby loves all the Patricia Cornwell books (mystery fiction)...although, I think some are actually non-fiction. They take place in the Virginia area, where hubby went to school, so the familiarity thing at play again.
Andrew is loving the "cul de sac" kids series, and has also started the "Junie B. Jones" books too.
hope those help.
kim
www.caringbridge.org/ca/andrew
I'm reading "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" which I had never read, and I'll be at Barnes and Noble at midnight to pick up my copy of HP7 at midnight, and I'll feel like a complete loser because I have no children but I want that book in my hands. Oh, and Snape's totally a good guy.
I must be the only person who cannot connect with the Jodi Picoult characters. Believe me I've tried and I'm determined to finish My Sister's Keeper. My daughter works at B&N and has bought me all of them. My favorite authors currently are Barbara Delinsky and Kristen Hannah. Yes, I read fluff and proud of it!
Dixie in CA
I'd recommend pretty much anything by Janet Evanovich, especially her Stephanie Plum series. They will have you laughing out loud, yet unable to put the book down.
Hi Kristi,
Just finished reading Snow Flower and Secret Fan and found it really interesting. A window into China and Chinese women in the 19th century and their customs, as seen through the eyes of one woman, from girl to 80 year old.
Marie
www.caringbridge.org/visit/marielle
I didn't know you were a Harry Potter nut...Me too! And I'm completely with you on Snape, every fibre of my being tells me he is a hero. I have a bazillion questions that need answering in this last book and I'm anticipating a very long read. Actually I've booked the Monday off work. I'll be in the queue at Midnight Friday night to collect my copy - have also ordered the audio version. Listening to HP, in the dark tucked up under the duvet last thing at night is wonderful. Anyway books - Angela's Ashes by F. McCourt is brilliant. Hard Times by C.Dickens...BRILLIANT. The Magdelene by Marita Conlon McKenna - True account of life in the catholic 'homes' for wayward teenage mothers in the 50's and 60's in Ireland, touching, sad, and brilliant. Also, juvenile I know but its quite fun to revisit the books you read as a child. I've re-read the Malory Towers series by Enid Blyton...would like to read Charlottes Web, but, well, the spider will make me cry. Hope some of the suggestions help. Love to all.
Hi Kristi,
Thanks for the book suggestions! I was needing some new ideas. If you like mysteries, Jonathan Kellerman is really good, so are Patricia Cornwell and Iris Johansen. Now I'll have to head to the library today - I finished a good book last night, and was so desperate for something to read, I picked up my daughter's Nick magazine, and it just didn't cut it!
~Sarah
ps: loved all the pics!!!
I just want to tell you that my family went on an Alaskan cruise in 2003 and it was by far the best vacation ever! We went on the Holland America fleet - it's a smaller ship - no shopping mall going down the middle of it. But it was a very nice ship - I would definitely go on Holland America again. And that train ride in Skagway was so cool! If you go to www.wpyr.com you can read up on it and actually look in the webcam at the ships docked there. I would love to get back to Alaska someday - it was great! I hope you like it as much.
Carrie
It depends on what type of mood I am in when I want to read - sometimes I like mystery, other times its romance.
Some of my favorite authors:
Nora Roberts - she also writes very believeable futuristic (sp) books under the name JD Robb.
Debbie Macomber
Susan Wiggs - just started her books and I like them
I love to read so I basically can pick up anything and read it - however - I don't like to watch a movie if I have already read the book - I can watch the movie and THEN read the book but not the opposite. I think its because I envision what the characters look like and how everything looks and then I am dissappointed with the movie because it doesn't meet my "expectations."
Happy Reading
Kristina
Brookville, Ohio
Hey Kristi,
Have you read any James Patterson books. The murder club series is great, just finished the 6th one in the serious. I love all of his books. They are quick easy reads and are great for vacations.
Currently I am rereading the entire Harry Potter collection...in anticipation of Book #7...CAN'T WAIT!!!
Meg
Milford, CT
I love Patricia Cornwell.
The Shopaholic Series.
Nanny Diaries.
Devil wears Prada
Something Borrowed
Something Blue - These are both really good. She has another one out that I haven't gotten to yet. Baby something.
Kristin in NC
Hey, I haven't personally read these books, but my friend highly recommends two by Emily Giffin "Something Borrowed" and "Something Blue." They are the same basic story told from the two main characters' perspectives. They SOUND great and hopefully I'll get around to reading them some time. I think I have several of the Mitford books, if you want to borrow them...
OMG...I totally didn't see the post above me during the 10 minutes it took me to finally post mine!
Have you read any of the Stephanie Plum books by Janet Evanovich? I highly recommend them - very funny and a good read. She has a dozen of them - and they are numbered sequentially, starting with "One For the Money". I have the whole series and have reread them countless times. Her writing style is much like yours. Anyway, the premise of the books is that Stephanie, who used to be an underwear buyer for a department store, loses her job and forces her slimy cousin into giving her a job as a bond enforcement agent (bounty hunter). Of course, she is hardly skilled in what it takes to capture fugitives and the books are highly entertaining. Try the first one - you will be hooked! And you can find them at Target or Walmart, so it's easy to pick up the next one!
I read the Traveling Funeral book, too - my sister gave it to me for Christmas. I hated it, and wanted to stop after the first couple of chapters, too, but I kept on reading hoping it got better. You made the right call - it didn't get better...
I have never posted but I have been following Kendrie for at least 2-3 years now. I love your blog! And I can't wait for Harry Potter either!!!! I'm glad I'm not the only adult dork that reads it!!!!
Anyways, my next favorite books are the Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich. They are hysterical fast reads, perfect for any vacation. I know they will be right up your alley with the sarcastic humor, hot guys, and a little thrill/mystery thrown in. Check out her website for excerpts and other stuff at http://www.evanovich.com. I promise you will love them!!!
Amber, Mansfield, OH
Lorna Landvik-any of her books are great and she's from Minneapolis. Maybe that's why I liked them.
Susan Wiggs and Debbie Macomber are good too. If I find a book I like, I go back to the library and get all the books they've written. It keeps me busy for awhile. I love having summers off, then I can read a book a day. Ok, my kids are big now and I get nothing done other than reading, but it takes a few weeks and lots of books before the depression about doing nothing sets in, and by that time, it's time to go back to school!
Loved all your pictures, you have a pretty great looking family!
Sheila-Minnesota
I recommend "Fighting for Dear Life: the True Story of Terri Schiavo" by David Gibbs. Not exactly lightweight reading, but regardless of your opinion of what happened to her, hearing the other side of the story from what we heard in the media was very telling (and pretty scary) for me.
Glad you're back to blogging! Love the pictures, but I missed my morning laugh! :)
Cheryl
WR
My sister will be a sophomore in college next year, and she is actually taking a HARRY POTTER CLASS. Yes, you read that right. for credit and everything. A Harry Potter class!!!! I'm so jealous--that definitely wasn't offered when I went to school. I'm making her send me all the notes. I'll even write the papers. I'm due with my baby at the beginning of August and I'm imploring her not to come early lest she interrupt my Harry Potter reading time. And Snape? He's totally bad. BAD BAD BAD.
Also, thanks for the book suggestions--I need a good read!
Loved the book recommendations! and I have to agree with you about The Memory Keepers Daughter. I kept waiting for it to get better or something good to happen and it never did. Love Jodi Picoult! Have you read any Anita Shreve? The Pilot's Wife was her most famous. Her latest book, Body Surfing, was really, really good! If you have read any of her books this one takes place in the same house she's written about previously.
Ali in CO
Well I read all the time but I rarely ever ever comment. Because I'm lazy and you don't know me.
For what it's worth, forget Italy, I'm in Ireland which is one of the coolest places that begins with "I" :P
Okay, have you read everything - and I do mean EVERTHING - by Diana Gabaldon, beginning with Outlander and proceeding through (I think!) around six books now?? You won't be sorry if you do, I promise you; there's never been anyone that I've suggested these books to that didn't love them - and me for telling them about them! Also, I too have my next HP book pre-ordered, and having read the last one in less than 24 hours upon getting my hands on it (I still don't know how I managed that without taking time off from work, go figure, and PLEASE don't tell Boeing!!) - I propose a contest, if you're up for it: namely, which of the two of us can finish the last book in the least amount of time from beginning it. Whattaya think????!!!! BTW, the Diana Gabaldon books are really long, so if you're like me and prefer long books because you won't be looking for another book in two days, then you'll love that aspect of them too. They look like shmaltzy romance novels, but I promise you that they are NOT. PS - I have to say that I really, really think that Snape is a bad guy, but I can't believe that Dumbledore is really dead!!
Kristie,
so sad that I won't see you at clinic anymore... I hate to break it over the internet, but I have a new job... my last day is July 5 and then in August I'll start my new job as a teacher... I'm going to miss talking with ya'll when you come in.
Books! I love books! I love everything about books! I am going to be waiting in line at midnight for my copy of HP7. It's way too important for me not to see it...
Books you should read:
Meg Cabot- Size 12 is Not Fat, it's sequel Size 14 is Not Fat Either, Queen of Babble, Boy Meets Girl, Boy Next Door and Every Boy's Got One. This author and I are new best friends... She's even sent me free autographed copies and talked about me on her website. She even sent me personal Emails. That's right, we're totally cool like that. www.megcabot.com
If you want hundreds of trashy, there is no way these books are for people who think, I've got loads of titles.
And one should not forget classics like Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Princess Bride (like the movie, but funnier), Les Miserable and Of Mice and Men.
Kristi - forgot to say - don't know when you're hitting Seattle, but right now we're cloudy and in the sixties, so just before you leave, check www.komotv.com and check the weather report so that you can be prepared.......I always feel sorry for those brave, optomistic travelers that get off of airplanes in Seattle in nothing but shorts, tank tops, and flipflops.....
Kristie, I'm laughing so hard I'm crying!!! I hadn't noticed the puffy paint snowmen OR the snowflake buttons! HA!
Oh...some of the clothing choices of yesteryear certainly were unfortunate. Trust me, I'm not poking fun at you because I've got some doozies of my own. Well...I might be poking A LITTLE BIT of fun, but that's only because that dress is F.U.N.N.Y!!! The fact that it's still in your closet? Not so funny. You should probably do something about that. DO NOT save it thinking that Brayden might want to wear it someday. Because she won't.
Thanks for the laughs, Kristie. I needed it this morning because I'm feeling awfully sleepy.
:)
Abbie
DSM, IA
I have one recommendation (although others beat me to it) Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series (the bounty hunter). One for the Money... High Five... etc. Laugh out Loud - funny funny books and quick reads - perfect for vacations.
Thanks for your suggestions and for all of the other suggestions in the comments section. I made a list :)
Who writes these Mitford books?
I too and anxiously awaiting HP7, the downtown where we live is supposed to be transformed into Diagon Alley the night before.
You're right about anything by Jodi Picoult! I just finished reading "Nineteen Minutes." If you haven't already read it...DO! It is a must! Also, "Step On A Crack" by James Patterson.
Ok, first let me say I too am waiting for HP #7 which I have reserved at the local Border's Store. CAN"T WAIT!!!!
My suggestions:
Barbaro: A Nation's Love Story by Pamela K. Brodowsky
Summer Sisters by Judy Blume (good beach read)
Unexpected Daughter (Harlequin Superromance) by Suzanne Cox
(not a trashy romance!)
and a question: who sings the Rocky Road song?
Trish
Leesburg, VA
Hey Kristi,
I'm also a big HP fan. Can't wait for #7 - have it on pre-order.
As for good books - I like anything by Stephen King or John Saul.
Take care!
Jen
Karen Kingsbury is a great author (AND she signed my guestbook on Caringbridge!). I've read everything she has written. Jodi Picoult's Nineteen Minutes (I think that is what it's called) is FABULOSO!!! I, too, am a voracious reader! I thought ComeBack was pretty darn good and now I keep up with Claire and Mia on their blog!
Amy
http://itsmypartyillcryifiwantto.blogspot.com/
Oh, yes, love Anita Shreve as well. Although alot of my friends say that have to pay too much attention when they read her books! LOL!
What Remains by Lee Radziwell is good too.
Amy
http://itsmypartyillcryifiwantto.blogspot.com/
Janet Evanovich Stephanie Plum series...hilarious...you'll laugh out loud! You have to start with the first in the series. Amy
I forgot my username and password again. Sorry.
I am so mad somebody trumped me with Janet Evanovich...it's me again, just posted. Anyway, she said don't read them in a row. You might have to they're so funny you'll want to keep reading. Thirteen comes out in a few days. I just read a Thousand Splendid Suns by the author of the Kite Runenr. It's good. Amy
I just thought I would put my two cents in...........
Dora the explorer and Thomas the tank engine are all I get to read at this time. Nobody ever told me that this would happen when you have a two year old! I thought I could change her mind with something else, but no................
I think I might strangle Dora if I ever meet her in person!
I know I am in need of a Vacation.
I love all the pictures of your kids at the beach. You can tell they had a blast.
Sam Gleason in NC
If you haven't read them yet Alice Sebold has written two excellent books. 'The Lovely Bones' and 'Lucky'. They aren't what you would call "light reading" mostly because of the emotional turmoil in them. One is about a child who is murdered and then narrates the story from heaven (they are making it into a movie now which will mostly likely suck.. oh well) and the other is a memoir about the author's rape in college. Heavy stuff but both worth reading.. and re-reading.
If you want something lighter and more of a good time try 'The Broke Diaries' by Angela Nissel. She started out writing a blog like yours and ended up getting it published. It's hilarious! It's all about her adventures as a broke college student.
Hope you like em :)
Oh and I am crossing my fingers that snape is a good guy too.
Thanks so much for your reply about the bone marrow registry, it was very helpful since I've looked several times and have never actually been able to understand why that rule was there, but I suppose that makes sense now. I'm guessing I'd be ruled out anyway since my spinal cord is somewhat damaged to begin with.
Oh, and I completely agree, The Memory Keeper's Daughter was one of the most boring books I've ever read. I couldn't wait to finish it.
If you have some free time, a quick read I really liked was "Eye Contact." It had to do with a murder through the eyes of an autistic child. Very interesting, very fast read.
Anyways, thanks again for answer the bone marrow registry question. I'll see if I can't get some other people to register in my place!
Katie
New Orleans
Hey, thank YOU for writing such a fun blog that we all want to come here and read day-after-day! And I love that you share your family with us through your photos; it has been so fun for me to watch Kendrie go from such a sick little munchkin to the glowing-with-health, too-cute-for-words kid she is today. Brayden and Kellen, too. I've been "reading you" so long, first through CB and now here, that I am pretty much getting to see your kids grow up. And I love it!
Also a voracioius reader. Another Minnesotan mentioned Laura Landvik; my favorite book ever by her is called "Patty Jane's House of Curl." I must read this book at least twice a year, and I cry everytime. It's just that good--and quick, too. I'm one of those weirdos that likes true sociopath stuff, and you can't beat Ann Rule for anything like that, especially "...And Never Let Her Go." Highly recommend it if you like that genre at all. Anything by Dennis Lehane is good if you like mysteries. And I think everyone should read "For One More Day" by Mitch Albom (the guy who wrote "Tuesdays with Morrie").
I've loved reading all the suggestions; this is really fun! Thanks, Kristie; say it with me...YOU ROCK! Really! :)
Hi Kristie,
The pile of books by my bed right now are all written by Laurie King. It is the Mary Russell (supposed wife of Sherlock Holmes) series, and I am enjoying it thoroughly. I also enjoy Nevada Barr's books about national park ranger Anna Pigeon, but she's got to pick up the pace and start writing faster! Dana Stabenow's Kate Shugak books are a big hit with me too. I'm really into mysteries lately.
I am also waiting IMpatiently for HP7 to be delivered. Didn't we all wait long enough for J.K. to write it? I will probably read the ending before I read the middle just to relieve some of the tension! Does Harry live? Is Dumbledore the Obi Wan Kenobi of the HP world, and does he join the "force" of good? This is just too much suspense for one Chicago mom!
Take care,
Sue (Rachel's mom from ALL-Kids)
Three of my all time favorites are She's Come Undone and I Know This Much is True by Wally Lamb and Midwives by Chris Bohjalian. Authors I also like are Gillian Roberts (her books are all funny mysteries that feature the same main characters), Lolly Winston (she's only written two books so far)and Anita Shreve. Have you read The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver. I thought it would be too deep or literary for me but I liked it.
BTW I went to college with David Zincenko and he was kind of an ass so don't feel bad that you didn't follow his advice. He wasn't exactly into fitness and healthy living when I knew him.
Love the blog. Have followed you here from Caringbridge and am always interested in the adventures of your family!
Amy in NJ
Kristi,
I love to read too. Here are some of my favorites from the past year:
The Power of One: The Classic Novel of South Africa by Bryce Courtenay (sounds like a self-help book but it's a novel and very good)
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
I loved The Time Traveler's Wife too
And, we sometimes read books as a family and some of our favorites are the Gregor the Overlander Series (there are 5 books) and Jack's Run and Zach's Lie by Roland Smith (two books).
I wanted to let you know that I started a 100 Things list for my husband and when I first started I thought I could never come up with 100 things. But after I got going I found it became easy to come up with more and more things and I would think of things at the oddest times and add them to my list. I'm putting mine together in a slide show for my husband for our anniversary in August. Thanks for the idea.
Lisa Conway in CT
First, let me say your "100 things I love about you" list made me tempted to divorce my husband and marry yours.
My book suggestion "Safely Home" by Randy Alcorn.
Take care!
My summer reading suggestions:
1. Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult This is a tough read but I think every parent, teacher, and principal in America should read it.
2. My Sister's Keeper also by Piccoult...Kristie, You will relate to this at one level as it about a girl receiving a BMT for cancer.
3. 90 Minutes in Heaven...by Don Piper
4. Anything by Karen Kingsbury but make sure if you are reading one of the series books that you read them in order.
Happy Reading!
Lisa from Texas
Kristie et al,
I am loving this whole favorite book exchange list thing. I have the whole summer’s book reading season to look forward to! OK, here are my TOTAL FAVES:
1. Mitch Albom’s books, Tuesdays with Morrie, The Five People You Meet In Heaven, and For One More Day. The last one has totally changed the way I view my mother and how she protected me and my sisters from the harshness of dysfunction when we were little. I actually apologized to her after reading this book – I blamed her for a lot that wasn’t necessarily her fault.
2. Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner. However “worldly and knowledgeable” I viewed myself before reading this book completely changed after reading it! Surprisingly easy to read.
3. Anne Brashare’s Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series.
4. Kate DiCamillo’s The Tale of Despereaux. This is a children’s book that I read aloud to my kids (10 and 8 ½ at the time). YOU CANNOT MISS THIS BOOK!
5. Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist. Thinker book. Easy to read. Also loved The Devil and Miss Prym by him. Just find something by him and read it!
6. Nicholas Spark’s books are always good reads, even if a bit formulaic at this point.
Thanks for the suggestions that I have never even heard of! I plan on checking into many of these suggestions!
Happy Reading!
Pam B. in Michigan
Actually, if you haven't yet purchased the 3 Post Secret books, you are missing out! I only got them recently "after" you brought the website up here.
I don't have any other book suggestions unless you are in to 1500's historical Europe.
And seriously, the next time you come to the Destin area, we'd love to do lunch with you guys! Your 5 and my 5...OMG, what a hoot!
caringbridge.org/fl/tehlebracht
Oh yeah, Brenda jogged my menopausal mind. The Post Secret books; I bought all three of them, too. They are incredibly, incredibly powerful, and it's always the first thing I read every Sunday morning (sorry, Kristie-HA!). Disturbing, sad, happy, poignant, hits-too-close-to-home, who-would-ever-think-like-that; Post Secret runs the whole gamut and I'm addicted. Does that make me a voyeur? Ewwww....
And I just can't stress enough that EVERYBODY should read "For One More Day" by Mitch Albom. Another of the commenters endorsed it, too. It's quick, it's small, it's incredible. Really, everyone. Read it.
Hey Kristi-
Guess I am one of a few that actually didn't mind "The Memory Keepers Daughter". I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to read so I will read just about anything. Ronda Rich, a Gainesville Georgia author recently spoke at my church a few weeks ago and she has written several things. I am a big Nascar fan (red-neck, I know, but hey!) and she spent time on the Nascar circuit and wrote a book, "My Life in the Pits". It was really interested. I am also reading, "What Southern Women Know (that every woman should)". I have not finished it yet. I also absolutely LOVED, "Redeeming Love", by Francine Rivers. The best book ever. "The Road" was a really great read, but very deep. I can't remember the author's name, but he actually did the first ever interview with Oprah a few weeks ago. Thanks for the reading suggestions! I am writing them down so I can READ, READ, READ this summer.
Wendy in Winder, Georgia
I would love to take credit for the poster, but I must give credit where it is really due! Marey found the poster and bought it for me to give Kendrie. I mailed my note to Marey and she sent it on. Thank you so much for introducing me to Marey!
Postcard Cindy
Kristie,
If you like mysteries, etc., I'd totally recommend anything by Greg Iles (except his first two books, which seem to be a departure from his later stuff)and also Nelson DeMille, especially the John Corey novels. Absolutely awesome authors.
Yes, it was I who saw the poster in my local mom and pop video store and thought of Kendrie...but since I am not Kendrie's fairy/angel or postcard gal I had Cindy send me a card to go out in the mail with the poster...I made the pathetic towel paper tube and, wah-lah! A happy mail kinda day!
As for my reading suggestions...for any Kindergarten/pre-school or moms who love little kids' writing, I recommend "Opal" by Opal Whiteley. I haven't read a book that wasn't a picture book since last fall so I may have to browse the list for books to read this summer :)
Happy Thursday Night!
Ahhh, Harry Potter. Can't wait. My kids gave me the first 4 books for Mother's Day as my daughter took her copies with her when she moved out. I haven't preordered the book, but will be at Costco first thing in the morning to snag my copy. Along with a bunch of other people who will believe with all their hearts that Costco will only have 10 copies and they will need to push and shove to be the first in the door to snatch up said 10 copies. Which will be more like 500 copies. I've also put the book on hold at the library. I'm number 16 on the hold list, can you believe it? The way it used to work (before ungrateful daughter moved out and took her books with her) is that we would buy one copy and get one from the library. Then we would read it at the same time having somewhat of a contest to see who would finish first.
Some, but not all, of my favorite authors are: John Grisham, Jonathan Kellerman, Faye Kellerman, Robert Parker, David Baldacci, Janet Evanovich, Lisa Jackson, Jodi Picoult (I was reading 19 minutes at the same time as the college shootings) and Patricia Cornwell. I seldom buy books but instead check Amazon.com or Barnesandnoble.com to see what is coming out then put them on hold at the library. Cheap, what can I say. But I read all the time, in the tub, at red lights, haven't mastered reading while drying my hair and recently dropped a book (thankfully a paperback) in the tub. I fibbed just a bit and said the cat knocked it off the counter into the dog water bowl. Hey, things have gotten dropped in the water bowl.
Kristie, right now it is not very warm in Seattle. In fact, tonight it felt like fall already. I think you are only passing through anyway but be prepared when you get out of the airport, it could be a shock to your southern system.
Perhaps the day HP7 comes out could be declared a national/world holday. Surely no one can expect anyone to be very productive when that book is just itching to be read? Elaine in Lynnwood
Diana Gabaldon. She is probably my favorite. Start with "Outlander" and just finish the series out. Great books. When I was pregnant with Brayden I read "Outlander in 4 days! It is a 900+ page book! Once I started I couldnt put it down and I took it everywhere with me. She stays with the same characters through out her books and you fall in love with these characters.
M
I've never left a comment before (hi!) so it's a little weird that the book discussion is what got me going. About "The Memory Keeper's Daughter"...I just finished it last week so that I could finally return the thing to my mom. I also LOVE to read and it took me FOREVER to finish that book. I just didn't care AT ALL about the character's or felt that the story line was going anywhere. Nice to know that other's felt the same.
Have you read any of Dennis Lehane's books? He is a mystery writer and is really good. Also, if you haven't read the Janet Evanovich novels (Stephanie Plum is the heroine) you must. They are laugh out loud, perfect vacation books. Have a wonderful vacation!
LOL Kristie- Yes, your fans, we ADORE you!!!!! So much so, that I just peed on a stick this a.m. to see if I was ovulating, and you are one of the first people that I am proud to tell that yes, I am ovulating!!!!!
After months of spending an insance amount of money on regular old OPK's, I finally got the Clearblue Fertility Monitor. Guess the other tests just didn't work for me. And guess what???? My cycle is textbook, here it is day 14, and I'm ovulating!!!! Anyway, I just knew that you, unlike many others, would understand how such a mundane thing as ovulation could bring so much happiness.
Anyway, enough of me- back to the real star- You!!!! I find your blog the most thought provoking that I visit. You have a way of saying things that I think, but don't say. You give a voice to many, including me, a simple sahm who adores her kid and husband.
Thanks so much for being you!!!!!
Hey Kristie, I've never posted before, but I've been following Kendrie's site and your blog for awhile now. Your blog cracks me up on daily basis and I just love coming here to see what you and your family have been up to. I've also been following many other cancer kids sites for the past 3 years, after I read an article about Alex's lemonade stand.
I know you want book suggestions, so I have a lot of authors to recommend: John Sandford, Lisa Gardner, Tami Hoag, Nicholas Evans, Wally Lamb. I'm not sure if you like books about supernatural stuff, but I HIGHLY recommend The Women of the Otherworld series by Kelley Armstrong. She has an incredibly vivid imagination and her books are such and enjoyable read that I'm heartbroken when I'm done, lol!
Jennifer Parnham
London, Ontario, Canada
I'm not a big reader at all, and just finished The Lovely Bones. I started it last summer, so that will tell you something. I picked up The Memory Keeper's Daughter earlier this week, and I'm already half way through it. I'm finding it quite interesting, but that could be because I'm the mom of kids with special needs, I have lost 2 of my kids, and I was a teacher at the time that we were fighting to have all kids included. I'm reading it in every free second I have.
Okay, love Jodi Piccoult too.
I really liked Memory Keeper's Daughter (sad, dysfunctional, but I liked it).
Read Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. I really liked that book and it was interesting as well as well written.
I loved the Secret Life of Bees and also enjoyed the Mermaid Chair (although I had to get over the fact it was different than expected.)
I am currently reading Kite Runner.
Reading is awesome! I am going through your comments to get a good list of books!
OMG! I HATED the Memory Keeper's Daughter also, and my friends seriously almost excommunicated me for saying so. It was just awful. The only reason I read that whole thing is I was stuck in airports and didn't want to buy and expensive airport book. Glad to have finally found someone else who couldn't stand it! I'd love some more great book ideas. I love, love, LOVE to read.
Hi Kristi,
Have you joined the online group "good reads"? I'm sure you have being an avid reader but thought I would throw it out there just to make sure.
Sara
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