tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-319028122024-03-07T05:56:31.103-08:00Life after John GrishamMy reading tends to follow the NYT Bestsellers list. I'm breaking out of this habit (slowly), and want to share my experiences with anyone who is interested in reading them. I believe there is Life after John Grisham. I hope to prove it here.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-79020632319210804602009-04-24T20:50:00.000-07:002009-04-24T22:50:43.551-07:00Chilly Chile!<strong>Countdown: 12 days to Chile.</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJ0udgLU2eG5rDkxhX2xMinTLTLmB2_icvg_Db44k11colb8a6MoUIQQIvq6He3MpImSJOu1KpijCWuQR73usph9u6ZjVsWMo3xhHValWNEKYRS92Oi6N27-xSxVik5_Evp1S/s1600-h/photo_lg_santiago[1].jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328498081067966242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJ0udgLU2eG5rDkxhX2xMinTLTLmB2_icvg_Db44k11colb8a6MoUIQQIvq6He3MpImSJOu1KpijCWuQR73usph9u6ZjVsWMo3xhHValWNEKYRS92Oi6N27-xSxVik5_Evp1S/s320/photo_lg_santiago%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As promised, I have been reading up on my pending home away from home. I've gotten a lot of info out of the Fodors book, which I had a chance to read pretty much cover to cover on Tuesday, when I was in NYC for a promising job interview at a major publisher and had lunch with my Book Angel (and good friend), Erika. I'll get back to NYC in a sec...but now, Chile.<br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1400019672&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>Here's what else I learned thanks to my Fodor's Chile Book:</strong><br /><br />1) It is fall season in Chile in May. Temps will be <strong>chilly</strong> (between 50 and 60 degrees) Nice...right as NYC is starting to warm up. While I'm digging out my summer clothes for my next 12 days here, I'm throwing my winter clothes in a pile to get packed in my suitcase.<br /><br />2) I need to go to the doctor to check my MMR boosters and get a Hep A shot. (I took care of this during this week. The Hep A shot cost $83 (not covered by insurance) and it is only the first shot in a series of two (the second shot comes in six months). The doctor said this was better than nothing. We'll see about that.<br /><br />3) There is a nice park in Santiago, Chile where I can hike up (about an hour) and see the entire city. Views are great. Excercise is even better. I'm still doing Joy's Life Diet...my plan is to keep up the good work while I am away. Hopefully Chilleans don't love the fried food as much as I do.<br /><br />4) I can use my cell phone for $1 a minute and $0.40 text messages. Or I can get my cell phone unlocked to get a local SIM card, which should save me money. (I went for the unlocked phone option). In the process of doing this, I found out I can get my blackberry unlocked by some random company for $30 Orrrr I could call T-Mobile and they would give me the code for free (Guess which option I chose?). In addition, in cleaning my condo, I found that I had not one, but two spare phones. So I think I may bring 2 phones. One for local (Chile) calls and one for emergency (US Calls). I can thank God right now my mother is not a chatterbox and doesn't need to talk to me every day.<br /><br />5) I think I am going to have to rent a car or fly to some of the other places I want to see in Chile. I know the Sisters plan to send me to Ovalle, but I also want to see the wineries and other locations up North. I'll have to check out the bank accounts when I get there.<br /><br /><strong>My spanish...es muy malo</strong><br />I am also working on my Rosetta Stone studies. I try to get an hour or two in a day. I went to B&N today, because I have been spending way too much time on TV lately. They have free electricity and nice chairs there, so I parked myself in front of a window and got down to business.<br /><br />I am now on Level 2...and after talking to the "no hablo ingles" Domincan guy, Roberto, at the gym, I realize I am in big trouble. There are so may words I just don't know. It is hard to have a conversation when you are stuck on simple things like telling someone where you live.<br /><br />And my mom and I had a funny (or not so funny) conversation on the ferry today. I'm allergic to Yellow Jackets. If I get stung, its lights out for me, unless I get to a hospital. My face swells, my throat closes up, and I can't breathe. In the past my doctor wouldn't give me a prescription for the shot I need to save my life, because she said it was better to just get to the hospital and that in most cases, how often would I be that far away from a hospital??? And honestly, I am lucky if I have my keys every day. Chances of me carrying this thing around is slim to none on the day I get stung. Well, my new doctor gave me the prescription for the trip.<br /><br />Here's the funny part...How do you say "Yellow Jacket" in spanish? "abrigo amarillo"??? I don't think so.<br /><br /><a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2255/2052727807_fd4f323093.jpg%3Fv%3D0&imgrefurl=http://flickr.com/photos/17967616%40N08/2052727807/&usg=__dBkWPDz94LdhWnHmmaSXBwLK04w=&h=500&w=363&sz=69&hl=en&start=1&um=1&tbnid=VMRhuLFWpR4gJM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=94&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dabrigo%2Bamarillo%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1"></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9slcPw__983UrUhdrGJ0QDw4J7AWqE9ivZUvFLDgjVjW4AV00MP0-dPos_j8iS_-3EfyTN0iqef9raj3LFSEhyphenhyphenZtt39KavmSJ1B_J9KOQasCLSGerbB26vK_Qb8tvajbjq6k6/s1600-h/images[1].gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328483274392023442" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 112px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 124px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9slcPw__983UrUhdrGJ0QDw4J7AWqE9ivZUvFLDgjVjW4AV00MP0-dPos_j8iS_-3EfyTN0iqef9raj3LFSEhyphenhyphenZtt39KavmSJ1B_J9KOQasCLSGerbB26vK_Qb8tvajbjq6k6/s200/images%5B1%5D.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhiU6uyNb9em_ulwmzJ936dsFwT6f5cJG6rSu6ZXYCXzFL160X4x9f7169DPgkEFbRXlQ5us536bZtB1RNXq1u7y9Rzo-TL9VGGl8V4FJYCK7ACUxOf9-YKPwG59Rk-SuJCP8/s1600-h/images[1].jpg?v=0"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328482765122968034" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 88px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 111px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhiU6uyNb9em_ulwmzJ936dsFwT6f5cJG6rSu6ZXYCXzFL160X4x9f7169DPgkEFbRXlQ5us536bZtB1RNXq1u7y9Rzo-TL9VGGl8V4FJYCK7ACUxOf9-YKPwG59Rk-SuJCP8/s200/images%5B1%5D.jpg%253Fv%253D0" border="0" /></a><br />If I get stung, I don't have a lot of time...I need to give myself the shot, get to the hospital and hope that I don't pass out from lack of oxegyn. "Ayudame!!! Abrigo Amarillo" will be my choking words. I guess I can be thankful it is fall in Chile and los abrigos amarillos will be out of season.<br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001AFFZM2&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>A minor side note: Adding to my Before you Die NYC List:<br /><br /></strong>1) <strong>Go to a Jazz show at </strong><a href="http://www.jalc.org/DCCC/"><strong>Dizzy's Club Coca Cola </strong></a><strong>located in the Time Warner Building at Columbus Circle. </strong>So the price for a show is $35 plus $10 min for a drink. When you add a drink and food and tax and tip, you get a bill around $80 per person min...Now, yes this is expensive, and you could do it a little cheaper (eat somewhere else...and just get one drink). But the view of Central Park and the music was something else. Definitely recommend for a night out.<br /><br />2) <strong>Visit the New York Public Library (and the bathroom at Bryant Park)</strong> Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, 10018-2788.917-ASK-NYPL (917-275-6975) First of all, this library is beautiful on the inside and the outside. The lions have been a fascination to me ever since I saw them come to life in the WIZ (see 1:14 for the Library Lion in clip below).<br /><br /><a href="http://www.worldalmanac.com/blog/0801NYPL%20Lion.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px" alt="" src="http://www.worldalmanac.com/blog/0801NYPL%20Lion.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/75cZ9hU8ihY&hl=" width="425" height="344" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" fs="1" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed><br /><br />Ahhh...just watched the DVD trailer not as fascinating as I remember, but give me a break, I was just a little kid. Anwyay, this is a NYC landmark. You have to see it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFdiKffcGwrlsl0VdLr9_QQwNTGFimVt_H9PSsSGSAj3qHjxWhMfPaIV4MUgfq-GCptDWh5KiSo2PzjL0vcCuL0icxQbUB64U17bjuMj-wdz-GNpuEK-39UmdFX3vIGJJRMPm/s1600-h/bryant-bath[2].jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328492344017229010" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 154px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFdiKffcGwrlsl0VdLr9_QQwNTGFimVt_H9PSsSGSAj3qHjxWhMfPaIV4MUgfq-GCptDWh5KiSo2PzjL0vcCuL0icxQbUB64U17bjuMj-wdz-GNpuEK-39UmdFX3vIGJJRMPm/s200/bryant-bath%5B2%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>When you are done looking around, go downstairs to the basement, go out the side door, and walk towards 6th Avenue.There is a public rest room outside the library right where Bryant Park begins on 42nd street. It is the CLEANEST public bathroom I have ever been to. It has flowers in it and everything. I swear...its amazing. A wonder of the world. You have to see it for yourself.<br /><br /><br /><br />Then go to the park, sit and relax and take a seat and do some people-watching. Its the the most fun thing to do in NYC, and best of all, its FREE!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ofb.net/~andrewc/serenepia/index.cgi/photos/nyc/bryant_park_summerish.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 520px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 331px" alt="" src="http://www.ofb.net/%7Eandrewc/serenepia/index.cgi/photos/nyc/bryant_park_summerish.jpg" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-16764810789718847002009-04-13T21:34:00.000-07:002009-04-13T22:41:00.255-07:00Focus on: ChileWell, work ends for me on Wednesday and then I begin a new chapter in my life. <br /><br />I'm not going to lie...I am sad to be laid off. You can't help but feeling a little rejected. How did I make the cut and other people get to stay? Why me? Why anyone? But you know what, I can't be bothered with these bad thoughts. They are counter-productive. I choose to find a bright side. EVERYTHING happens for a reason. <br /><br />It definately helps that as far as layoffs go (this was my second one), this one was fairly pleasant. They gave me six weeks notice, an okay severance, and I couldn't ask for a better time of year. I'll be getting my tax refund and can enjoy some nice weather, while I collect unemployment and job hunt with the rest of the country. <br /><br />But first, I'm going to Santiago, Chile. That's right. I'm going. I need a change. I am going to recharge and I'm going to speak Spanish if it kills me.<br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=chile,+santiago&sll=-35.675147,-71.542969&sspn=67.158814,121.640625&g=chile&ie=UTF8&ll=-24.686952,-66.269531&spn=27.022874,63.632813&z=4&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=chile,+santiago&sll=-35.675147,-71.542969&sspn=67.158814,121.640625&g=chile&ie=UTF8&ll=-24.686952,-66.269531&spn=27.022874,63.632813&z=4" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small><br /><br />So if you are wondering what I will be reading for the next few weeks, I can tell you with 100% certianty, it won't be about Elvis. Thanks to another publishing friend (aka Book Angel #3) I'm reading <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/httpbookltore-20/detail/1857333411">Chile - Culture Smart!: a quick guide to customs and etiquette </a> and <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/httpbookltore-20/detail/1400019672">Fodor's Chile, 4th Edition: Including Argentine Patagonia </a><br /><br /><br /><br />So far, I learned the following:<br />1) There is no time difference between NYC and Chile. <br />2) Never show up on time, as nobody will be expecting you, but be punctual the first time, just in case.<br />3) Lunch is the main meal of the day and dinner is between 8 and 9pm. "Once" is the period between lunch and dinner you have a little snack. <br />4) Chileans love their grilled meat and seafood.<br />5) Water is okay to drink in Santiago, but have bottled water in rural areas.<br />6) Tipping is 10% <br />7) Men like to stare at women.<br />8) Drinks can be very strong so be careful. <br /><br />Clearly...I have more to read. But its a start. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1857333411&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1400019672&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-88304374033859658162009-03-27T20:26:00.000-07:002009-04-14T16:24:39.623-07:00Top 10 Places to see in NYC (before you die)<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001RTS8ZM?ie=UTF8&tag=httpbookltore-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B001RTS8ZM"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318614795154570546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTH8BIEYIl09IHrxcl6rYpYZyJZYlluUoUVl_ApBxRCY4HXdmXsMFfOsY7E4LMFSny8YGkYqxvv-FKNgkdOC8oafxppJ7SuU-2JaAVPVx1qbL81kS18CFwW7EtFaXt0SnL2uE/s200/book.jpg" border="0" /></a> Anyone who has been reading my blog knows that there is one book I come back to again and again, <strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001RTS8ZM?ie=UTF8&tag=httpbookltore-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B001RTS8ZM">1,000 Places to See in the U.S.A. & Canada Before You Die</a></strong>. Well, when it comes to NYC, I think the author/editor really fell short. So I decided to give her list a boost with a list of my own. (Fellow New Yorkers: I'd LOVE to hear what you think! What's your top 10 list?)<br /><br />So here it is... My addition to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001RTS8ZM?ie=UTF8&tag=httpbookltore-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B001RTS8ZM">1,000 Places to See in the U.S.A. & Canada Before You Die</a>....<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Barb's Top Ten Places To Visit in NYC (before you die)</span></strong><br /><br />1)<strong>Ride Staten Island Ferry </strong>(DOWNTOWN MANHATTAN - Battery Park) - Take the <a href="http://www.siferry.com/">Staten Island Ferry</a> (Free) from Downtown Manhattan to Staten Island. Sit on the top right side of the boat to get the best pictures of the Statue of Liberty. At the back of the boat, you'll also get a nice view of the Manhattan Skyline.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.visitingdc.com/images/staten-island-ferry-address.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 398px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px" alt="" src="http://www.visitingdc.com/images/staten-island-ferry-address.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />In the summer evenings, you might be able to catch a fun game of baseball with the <a href="http://www.siyanks.com/">Staten Island Yankees</a>. You can enjoy a nice cold beer, relax at the game and take in the view of the Manhattan Skyline for about $12-25 a ticket.<br /><br /><strong>Looking for a place to eat in Staten Island?</strong> Walk out of the St.George ferry terminal and take a left onto Richmond Terrace/Bay Street. Walk about .4 miles to <a href="http://cargocafe.com/">Cargo Cafe</a> (120 Bay Street, on Staten Island (718) 876-0539). Its a friendly place with a casual vibe, and great menu. A piece of trivia for you: The bar scene from the movie <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0332379/locations">School of Rock </a>was filmed at the Cargo Cafe.<br /><br />If you have a little extra time and want to try one of the <strong>City's BEST Pizza Places</strong>, I would suggest you take a cab (about $10) or get on the S44 bus to Walker St./Port Richmond Ave ($2 and approx. 30 minutes by bus) to <a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/deninos-pizzeria-and-tavern/">Denino's Pizza Tavern</a> (524 Port Richmond Ave., Staten Island, NY 10302 (718) 442-9401) and get a "MOR" pizza (meatball, onion and ricotta). It is well worth the trip. While in the neighborhood, walk across the street to <a href="http://www.ralphsices.com/">Ralph's Ices </a>(501 Port Richmond Ave. Staten Island, NY 10302 (718) 273-3675) for dessert. You can't miss the place. The line is usually going around the block...its that good.<br /><br />Getting back to Manhattan is no problem. The <a href="http://www.siferry.com/">Staten Island Ferry </a>runs 24 hours every 30 mins to 1 hour depending on what time of day you travel. Did I mention the ferry is FREE???<br /><br /><br /><br />2) <strong>Visit U.S. Custom House/American Indian Museum</strong> ( Bottom of Broadway, One Bowling Green New York, NY 10004 Phone: 212-514-3700). This location is on my list for a few reasons. One, it is a beautiful building and two, admission is free. In its heyday, the Custom House was a bustling place of activity as brokers and customs agents worked together to build our nation's wealth. Today it is the home of <a href="http://www.nmai.si.edu/subpage.cfm?subpage=visitor&second=ny&third=hours&other=ny_thumb01">Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian </a>as well as The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, and smaller agencies.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.nationaltrust.org/preservationnation/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/custom-house-nyc.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 440px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 321px" alt="" src="http://blogs.nationaltrust.org/preservationnation/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/custom-house-nyc.jpg" border="0" /></a>My favorite part of this building are the 4 statues outside by Daniel Chester French, representing the continents of Asia, America, Europe and Africa. The main figure in each statue is a seated young woman, whose features are typical of a given national group, race, or an amalgam of the continent. For more information about these beautiful statues, visit the <a href="http://www.oldnycustomhouse.gov/history/artists_art/daniel_chester.asp#sculpting">Custom House Website.</a> When you look up along the top of the building, you'll see The Twelve Statues of Seafaring Nations, by Cass Gilbert. For more on the 12 statues, <a href="http://www.oldnycustomhouse.gov/history/artists_art/twelve_statues.asp">check out this page.</a><br /><br />After you leave the Customs House, take a short walk up Broadway and take a picture with The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charging_Bull">7,000 pound bronze bull</a>. This is my father's favorite photo op. He will take anyone and everyone he knows there to make sure they get their picture with "the Bull." You'd think he sculpted it himself (he didn't). This huge bull was a creation of SoHo sculptor Arturo DeModica. It was first appeared in front of the New York Stock Exchange in December 1989 and was quickly impounded by the NYPD. The New York City Parks Department later gave the bull an official home on Broadway, 2 blocks below Wall Street. Make my father happy...take your picture here.<br /><br /><a href="http://joia.org/images/smallWall_Street_Bull.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 350px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 265px" alt="" src="http://joia.org/images/smallWall_Street_Bull.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />3) <strong>Seek out Adrianne's Pizza Bar On Stone Street</strong> This place is a little hard to find in the maze of streets of Downtown Manhattan, but if you are going to go to any place in NYC for Pizza, you have to try this place. <a href="http://www.adriennespizzabar.com/">Adrianne's </a>(54 Stone St New York, NY 10004 - (212) 248-3838) is right by Wall Street, near the world famous <a href="http://www.delmonicosny.com/">Delmonico's Steak House</a>. I'll admit for a pizza place, it is a little pricey, but really its worth it.<br /><br /><br />I love taking people to Adrianne's and suggest it almost every time someone wants to meet up for dinner. My favorite time to go there is during the warmer months, when all the Stone Street restaurants set up tables in the street and you can enjoy great food out in the open air. I highly recommend the Antipasti (which has grilled vegetables, beans, meats and cheese) and then the Old Fashioned Pizza (my favorite is topped with Eggplant, but any topping on this pizza tastes heavenly) .<br /><br />A little piece of trivia: Stone Street claims to be one of the first paved streets in Manhattan. If you can find this place, it is well worth the visit. You'll feel like you have stepped in a different time.<br /><br />4) <strong>Take a good look at the Woolworth Building</strong> - Head up Broadway, stop to pay your respects at Ground Zero (soon to be the Freedom Towers or 1 World Trade Plaza) and then continue to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woolworth_Building">Woolworth Building</a>, (233 Broadway New York, NY 10007), one of my favorite places to in Manhattan.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-8UCl0o29P3Aoh34HO_6ZarqYxrfAOXICeZiOwVajXrHv-uJpNOSIAw9EEkSOZX_JRUfMC9UvUX21mHlk-U0YVXo73-fbRgi7IuPSMjs1hFNwoOxcpgQckuPutYYgq8U4ojU/s1600-h/451px-WoolworthBuilding.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318276162362784546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-8UCl0o29P3Aoh34HO_6ZarqYxrfAOXICeZiOwVajXrHv-uJpNOSIAw9EEkSOZX_JRUfMC9UvUX21mHlk-U0YVXo73-fbRgi7IuPSMjs1hFNwoOxcpgQckuPutYYgq8U4ojU/s200/451px-WoolworthBuilding.jpg" border="0" /></a>My bus stop is right in front of the Woolworth building and I can't help but look at all the details of this building every time I go there. This 57 story beauty cost $13.5 million to build in 1910 and was paid for by F.W. Woolworth in cash. It was designed and built to be the worlds largest building. It is truly amazing inside and out, from close up and far away. The lobby of the building is amazing. Its closed to visitors, but you can always go in for a second and pretend you are lost.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />5) <strong>Walk over the</strong> <strong>Brooklyn Bridge</strong>. People. I don't care how tired you are, how much your legs hurt. Pull it together and walk from the Woolworth Building through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City_Hall">City Hall </a>Park and over the <a href="http://www.nycroads.com/crossings/brooklyn/">Brooklyn Bridge</a>. This is my FAVORITE PLACE in NYC. Its FREE to walk over, it has a most amazing history and it offers some fantastic views of New York.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Etq-bgeCpaIy0vz7lz-KZMjexQPOkxhafzfyCkX9tK8pNmAcd5zoe94jM1qrSxYQugTfJuLhgtzs6CjT-onSJadMIYmOi-nuQKrVAkZ-wKTlNyzK-GzWiAkk5zSUlXHCRs2v/s1600-h/bridge+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318278386183716578" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Etq-bgeCpaIy0vz7lz-KZMjexQPOkxhafzfyCkX9tK8pNmAcd5zoe94jM1qrSxYQugTfJuLhgtzs6CjT-onSJadMIYmOi-nuQKrVAkZ-wKTlNyzK-GzWiAkk5zSUlXHCRs2v/s200/bridge+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6owbFOvA7-WIZCZ7EwsW-nkp0KQNlsjGOZSGUHSXjT99ZXx_pUrM9bhM1fwD05uyaN8PqJFmJriHKFSZ55TbmQprKOEzaNqZ9Iy7QzkHqDTpZ1Cp-SxNrC49kT8GkVo0bfoH/s1600-h/bridge.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318277491765219602" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6owbFOvA7-WIZCZ7EwsW-nkp0KQNlsjGOZSGUHSXjT99ZXx_pUrM9bhM1fwD05uyaN8PqJFmJriHKFSZ55TbmQprKOEzaNqZ9Iy7QzkHqDTpZ1Cp-SxNrC49kT8GkVo0bfoH/s200/bridge.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I think the best views from the Brooklyn Bridge are really from Brooklyn coming to Manhattan. You can see <a href="http://www.nps.gov/stli/">The Statue of Liberty</a>, <a href="http://www.southstreetseaport.com/html/">South Street SeaPort</a>, <a href="http://www.esbnyc.com/index2.cfm?CFID=33330520&CFTOKEN=3152144">The Empire State Building</a>, and the city skyline.<br /><br />So if you are too lazy to walk both ways, then take the A/E Subway to High Street in Brooklyn (there's a subway entrance is on Church and Park Place in Manhattan). Get on towards the back of the train. Get off at the High Street (Brooklyn) Station. Cross through the Cadman Park, and follow signs to the Brooklyn Bridge. If you don't have time for this...MAKE IT. The walk takes about 30-40 minutes. You can do this walk practically year-round. I've done it over 100 times myself (no exaggeration...twice in a thunder and lighting storm) . The view is great day or night.<br /><br />If you want to love this bridge as much as I do, you should read the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0743217373?ie=UTF8&tag=httpbookltore-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0743217373">The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge</a><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="1" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=httpbookltore-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0743217373" width="1" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><strong>If you are hungry when you land in Brooklyn,</strong> I would suggest 4 places in DUMBO (Downtown Brooklyn...acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), you'll get to these locations by walking right past the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge walkway, and down Washington Street to Front Street. On a nice sunny day, DUMBO is a cute little neighborhood to stop off, grab a bite to eat and plan the rest of your touring.<br /><br />Make a right on Front Street for <a href="http://www.grimaldis.com/brooklyn.htm">Grimaldi's</a>, home Brooklyn's most famous Pizza. Continue down Front Street and make a right on Old Fulton Street. You'll see Grimaldi's (19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn - (718) 858-4300) red and green awning, and most likely a long line, especially on days when the weather is nice. Even if you have to wait, give it a try. The pizza is made in a brick oven and has a very thin crust. A large pie is good for 2 people.<br /><br />Or make a left at Front Street for <a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/superfine/">Superfine </a>(126 Front St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 243-9005), they have a great atmosphere, small menu selection but fresh, quality food at a decent price. My favorite there is the steak sandwich, but everything on the menu is fantastic. When you are done, walk straight towards the water to the park. You'll end up at a nice park where you can sit and enjoy the view.<br /><br />If you want Brooklyn's (and arguably the world's) Best Chocolate, you have to stop at <a href="http://www.mrchocolate.com/">Jacques Torres Chocolate</a> (66 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 718.875.9772) (take a left on Front Street, make a right at the Starbucks, and a left on Water Street) . The've got amazing Ice Cream Sandwiches in the summer featuring Jacques' chocolate chip cookies, and in the winter, the Hot Chocolate is too rich to describe. Go there and at least sample a chocolate.<br /><br />If you rather some ice cream, then you should keep walking down Water street to <a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/brooklyn-ice-cream-factory/">Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory</a>, (1 Water St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 718-246-3963). In the summer, there will be a nice long line for this creamy delicious ice cream. Get a scoop and sit and enjoy it in the garden of the <a href="http://www.rivercafe.com/">River Cafe</a> (don't be fooled by the name, this place is way too expensive to eat there). Watch people take their wedding and engagment photos and enjoy the view of the Bridge and NYC skyline.<br /><br />Go to any of these places above, and I promise you will get some of the most fantastic pictures of the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, the East River and NYC Skyline.<br /><br /><br />6) <strong>Get a bird's eye view from the Empire State Building</strong>. I never get tired of bringing my tourist friends to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empire_State_Building">Empire State Building</a>. It is a classic NYC Landmark. Built in 1931, this 102 story building is currently the tallest building in NYC. Every night they light the top with colors that represent a holiday or event. It is fun to see it lit up and to try to figure out what today's color means. As far as getting to the top, it only costs about $18 to go to the 86th floor. Sometimes the lines are long, but frankly, I really think if you are in NYC, you have to do it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmtyfxuxkcgD6N8ZEiYl2tsjCJnk0-9SklMLcOGBa6mG1Zv0CgrwQRsczD8A28oYhzTVbAm5lBJAVplLZaQexk6kouRYbHZCe9nE-GeyJPw26JP_5d3QWrpjCBSmqzAacZCfM/s1600-h/2005-02-Empire-State-Building.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318289669393193874" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 132px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmtyfxuxkcgD6N8ZEiYl2tsjCJnk0-9SklMLcOGBa6mG1Zv0CgrwQRsczD8A28oYhzTVbAm5lBJAVplLZaQexk6kouRYbHZCe9nE-GeyJPw26JP_5d3QWrpjCBSmqzAacZCfM/s200/2005-02-Empire-State-Building.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If you don't want to spend the cash getting to the top, I have one more suggestion for you. Go to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.esbnyc.com">La Quinta Hotel </a>(17 West 32nd Street (between Broadway and 5th) New York, NY 10001) Take the elevator to the <a href="http://www.newyorkontap.com/reviews2show.asp?show=1494">Sky Bar</a>. Go there in the evening, have a drink and enjoy the view of this modern marvel from the La Qunita's rooftop bar.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />7) <strong>Take spin in <a href="http://timessquare.com/"><strong>Times Square</strong></a>.</strong> First of all, if you are visiting NYC, you have to catch a show on Broadway. Make plans to go to one the <a href="http://www.tdf.org/TDF_ServicePage.aspx?id=56">TKTS booth</a> and get a discount ticket for that evening or the next day matinee. The booths are open from 11am -6pm.<br /><br />Before the show, grab a drink at the <a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/nycmq-new-york-marriott-marquis/">Marriott Marquis </a>(1535 Broadway at 46th street New York, NY 10036). Take the elevator up the the <a href="http://www.nyc.com/restaurants/the_view_restaurant.53608/editorial_review.aspx">View Restaurant</a>. While you sit, the room rotates and you get a 360 degree view of Times Square and New Jersey Skyline. They have a dinner and dessert buffet, but I'd just go for the drink. You can get some good eats at my 2 favorite places <a href="http://www.carminesnyc.com/">Carmine's </a>(Italian family style) - 200 W 44th St New York, NY 10036 - (212) 221-3800, or <a href="http://www.virgilsbbq.com/">Virgils</a> for Southern BBQ (152 W 44th St New York, NY 10036 - (212) 921-9494). I also can suggest <a href="http://www.nyc.com/restaurants/ruby_foos_times_square.53991/editorial_review.aspx">Ruby Foo's</a> for Asian Fusion (1626 Broadway, New York - (212) 489-5600).<br /><br />8) <strong>Get your Chocolate Fix </strong>- I personally look forward to going to the <a href="http://www.chocolateshow.com/">Chocolate Show </a>every November (beginning of the month). You pay about $30 and get to taste all the chocolate your heart desires. The location has been changing, but in 2008, it was at Pier 94 (711 12th Avenue and 55th Street). You want to get to this event early in the day, before it gets too crowded. My friends and I usually arrive at around 10am, tour around for about 2 hours and then go out for lunch. This year I learned about <a href="http://nymag.com/restaurants/features/54066/">Chocolate Covered Bacon</a> (need I say more???) from <a href="http://nymag.com/listings/stores/roni-sue/">Roni-Sue</a> located in the Essex Street Market (120 Essex St., New York, NY 10002) .<br /><br />I also can highly recommend <a href="http://www.maxbrenner.com/branches.html">Max Brenner </a>(A.K.A Chocolate by the Bald Man) located at 841 Broadway (between 13th and 14th Streets). You have to try his Chocolate Pizza and Chocolate Milk Shakes.<br /><br />9) <strong>Ride NYC in the 5 Borough Bike Tour.</strong> I love to see NYC by bicycle. For the past 5 years, I have participated in the <a href="http://www.bikenewyork.org/rides/fbbt/index.html">5 Borough Bike Tour </a>, which usually takes place the first Sunday in May. You start in Downtown Manhattan, ride through all the boroughs and end up in Staten Island. The roads are all closed to traffic and the route is mostly flat. Its 42 miles of adventure. This ride has become extremely popular, so you have to sign up early the fee starts at $40, and goes higher depending on when you register. There are so many people on this ride, it can get dangerous. You will experience bottle-necks if you are not in the front of the pack. Try to get there super early so you aren't stuck behind the slow pokes and less experienced riders. My friends and I also ride up the side streets ahead of everyone up until Central Park.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos-h.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v361/117/122/618462188/n618462188_1454231_8735.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 104px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px" alt="" src="http://photos-h.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v361/117/122/618462188/n618462188_1454231_8735.jpg" border="0" /></a>Another ride that I can suggest is <a href="http://www.nationalmssociety.on/">MS Bike NY</a> in October. This ride requires that you pay an entry fee and raise a minimum for the charity. I can tell you though that it is well organized and they take care of their riders. It is well worth the hassle of fundraising (and it is a good cause!) . The ride is 30 - 100 miles through NYC and NJ. If you do up to 75 miles, you get to ride through the Lincoln Tunnel into New Jersey and back over the George Washington Bridge, which is pretty exciting.<br /><br />You can also try the <a href="http://www.nyccentury.org/">New York Century Bike Tour</a> in September. It ranges from 15 to 100 mile routes. The ride starts at $60 and goes up from there depending on when you register. I've done this a few times and my only complaint about this ride is that they don't close off all the routes to cars, and it sometimes feels a little less organized compared to the other rides above.<br /><br /><br />10) <strong>Get lost in </strong><a href="http://grandcentralterminal.com/"><strong>Grand Central Station</strong></a> You just have to check out this historical landmark. Grand Central Station is beautiful from the outside and the inside. I like to walk in the middle and just look up. But there is lots to see here. <a href="http://grandcentralterminal.com/info/walkingtour.cfm">Check out this walking tour.</a> According to this website, free public tours are given on Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:30pm. The Wednesday tour meets at the Round Information Booth and is given by the Municipal Art Society (212) 935-3960. The Friday tours meets outside on 42nd Street in front of the Phillip Morris Building/Whitney Museum entrance across the street from Grand Central and is given by the Grand Central Partnership (212) 883-2420.<br /><br /><br /><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 458px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 261px" alt="" src="http://www.genestho.ca/genestho/images/20060604112224_nyc_grand_central_station.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">SO...my fellow New Yorkers...What do you think? Did I miss anything?</span></strong><br /><br /><br /><strong>Note about </strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001RTS8ZM?ie=UTF8&tag=httpbookltore-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B001RTS8ZM"><strong>1,000 Places to See in the U.S.A. & Canada Before You Die</strong></a><strong>: </strong>There are many variations of this book, one highlights action/adventure, another lists places to visit world-wide. Many people use these types of books to help them in compiling their Bucket List, the list of things they want to do before they die. I don't really see it as my Bucket List, but as a list of things I don't want to miss. I chose the US and Canada version of the Before you Die Books because I actually felt I might be able to do them all! Why give yourself an impossible challenge? As I go from state to state and up into Canada, I find it satisfying to check off the different places listed in this book, and as with the case with NYC, finding even more treasures along the way. I hope to continue to share my adventures and finds as I find them.<br /><br />Want to create your own Bucket List or Don't Miss list? Here are some books to get you started:<br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822/US/httpbookltore-20/8001/d17236e2-841d-45ce-98d8-022319510f8d" type="text/javascript" charset="utf-8"> </script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-31250965493987048172009-03-26T19:04:00.001-07:002009-03-26T19:55:04.812-07:00Ladies and Gentlemen...Elvis has Left the Building.Today I finished <strong>Careless Love</strong> by Peter Guralnick. Heartbreaking. <br /><br />Elvis was really before my time, but I can tell you that he was a handsome young man oozing with charisma and sex appeal. <br /><br />He was a complicated character. He had all the money you could imagine, but no one around him he could really trust. He hated the movies he made, they embarrassed him. But they made him money, so he did them anyway and his eccentric manager, The Colonel Tom Parker (the ultimate deal maker) kept signing him up for more. <br /><br />Here is one of his early movies...where he actually looks like he was enjoying himself. <br /><object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/W-yZifpgCR0&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/W-yZifpgCR0&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><br />In his private life, Elvis was searching for answers and peace, but really only found solace with drugs. Nobody around him had the guts to tell him to stop. Elvis' career eventually moved from movies to concert performances, which brought him closer to the fans he loved. Here's a clip from his famous 1968 Comeback Special.<br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eXlI4aO_9MU&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eXlI4aO_9MU&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />In the end, his addition to drugs made him bloated and sick and affected his performances. Here is one of his last concerts before his death at Graceland in August 1977.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hr8VEcbSw48&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hr8VEcbSw48&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />As I read Elvis' story, I couldn't help of think of the stars of today, who find themselves in a similar hell: from Anna Nicole to Brittany Spears. I really feel for these celebs even more now, having read Elvis' story. <br /><br />This book was written in 1999, but I am so glad it fell into my hands today. I was able to give it another dimension with videos from YouTube. Its a tragic story well told by author Guralnick. Today, I give it 4 of 5 stars. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0316332976&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />What's next on my list...? Honestly, I don't know I have quite a few books waiting for my attention. I'll let you know in my next post.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-30845772315172011612009-03-25T20:12:00.000-07:002009-03-25T21:21:42.390-07:00Joy's Life Diet - You can see it in my face.Well its been 3 months since I started JOY's LIFE DIET. It is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. Joy Bauer, celebrated nutritionist from the Today Show, is a winner! This book is my new weight loss bible! And I can't tell enough people about it. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061665746&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />I'm down to 208lbs from 225lbs. That's 17 lbs and counting. Everyone says they can see it in my face. I see it in my clothes (falling off me). <br /><br />Some people say that it is too expensive to go on a diet. I don't think that is really true. Yes, my grocery bills for the first 2 weeks were about $150 (which was about 3x as much as what I normally spent). But now they are down to $50 or less. I have a list that I go to the grocery store with, and I try not to deviate. If it is not on my list, I don't need it. Plus, I save a ton of money eating out. <br /><br />The key to my progress has been planning ahead for meals. Every night before I go to bed, I know what I will be eating the next day, from breakfast to dinner. I bring my lunch, snacks and sometimes dinner to work with me. Now, I even have a special bowl and spoon in the office with my name on it to prepare my meals in the office microwave. I save myself from having to run out and get something (most likely unhealthy) to eat, and give myself more time to focus on other things, like getting out of work early and going to the gym. <br /><br />That leads me to the topic of exercise. It wasn't until I made exercise part of my routine that that the weight loss really started kicking up for me. I added classes to NYSC to help me to get my 30 minutes of exercise into my day. I enjoy the Spin classes (which I couldn't get past the warm-up when I first started) and Zumba Dance. I've cut my training sessions down to once a week with Catalino which is another big financial savings. We are down to our last 5 sessions. Catalino and I will be breaking up after a 2 year relationship. In the past this would of scared me to death. He was a HUGE part of my success to date. Sometimes Catalino was the only reason why I was going to the gym. But now that exercise is officially part of my Joy's Life Diet routine, I know I can do it. <br /><br />One more thing that really helped was an office weight loss challenge. It was probably the accountability I needed to stay on track. I could earn points to help the team by eating healthy and getting in daily exercises and sleep. Days when I wanted to skip my 30 minutes of exercise, I would force myself to get it in for the team. Joy has similar challenges on the Today show. I really think this competitive environment and personal challenges help me keep on track. This year I'm planning on my 75 Mile bike ride to be a piece of cake. <br /><br />For the first time in a LONG time I feel like the 175 is in my reach. That's a wonderful feeling. <br /><br />One little side note on Joy Bauer: I have had the pleasure to meet Joy in person, and she is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING and the most genuine person you ever want to know. She is a go-getter and you can't help but be inspired by her energy. See Joy in action: <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cJ6NkfmEqhk&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cJ6NkfmEqhk&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-13250514589391252962009-03-20T17:55:00.001-07:002009-03-20T21:29:23.775-07:00Elvis and LayoffsWhat a difference a few weeks make! When we got back from Tennessee, all I was worried about was finishing my Elvis book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0137021143?tag=httpbookltore-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0137021143&adid=1MX920BKZRGX8J8QY1N4&">Careless Love </a>by Peter Guralnick. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0316332976&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><strong>Then I got laid off.</strong><br />Now, I was worried about finding a new job, money and all the things I had planned for the near future...Getting laid off wasn't what I had in mind for 2009. I just got myself in a good place. I'm losing weight, on dating sites, and just feeling good about life. WTF?????? Not this again. <br /><br /><strong>Hope and inspiration from a small book...</strong><br />So...I get this email from NYU for the launch event for the book called the <a href="http://www.worldwiderave.com/">World Wide Rave</a>. My boss told me to do what I need to do to find another job, so I signed up figuring it was a networking opportunity. I was inspired by the various speakers, including author <a href="http://www.worldwiderave.com/">David Meerman Scott</a>. While not really a networking event, it gave me hope for my future. The Internet is changing again...and after 10 years I'm still moving forward with it. Things started looking brighter.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001UUJ640&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><strong><br />Big lift from a small package</strong><br />Then I get home to a shipment from my Book Angel. To my surprise...it was <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0316332259?tag=httpbookltore-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0316332259&adid=1AFWHV79A0H80WV7C6XN&">LAST TRAIN TO MEMPHIS</a>...another Elvis Book from the author of Careless Love. This was a follow up to another shipment of assorted reading from Book Angel... NICE...good day. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0316332259&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><strong>Another possible bright side...</strong><br />Then I was visiting with my Aunt and Uncle, talking about my Cousin's wedding in California in June. My cousin Kim is driving back to New York, right after the wedding. Maybe I could drive back with her? Maybe... I like the sound of something to do...A few more spots to check off my list from 1001 places to visit before you die. Sounds okay to me. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0761136916&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>Good News still shines through</strong><br />Then I had a revelation. What if I could take some time and travel and maybe learn Spanish? An email and phone call later, I was speaking to the former principal of my high school, Sr. Lois and I was planning my trip to Chile. A few days later I got the good news. The nuns think this is a GREAT idea and they are happy to have me. Dreams coming true. <br /><br />Then I called my cable company...Told them I got laid off. My bill was reduced to $99. A call to my credit card company had more good news. They told me that if I needed it, I just had to tell them that I need hardship support and I get 3 months with no interest. Plus I found out I had enough miles to go to Chile...Free.<br /><br />Then my friend Tricia told me that the federal government will pay 65% of COBRA premiums for employees who are laid off from Sept. 1, 2008, through Dec. 31, 2009. The subsidy will extend for nine months. A big relief.<br /><br /><strong><br />I think I found a Bright Side</strong><br />So...No, not what I had in mind for 2009...but I am starting to think that the universe and God still has a plan for me. Just in case...I'll also pick up a copy of highly recommended book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0137021143?tag=httpbookltore-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0137021143&adid=1MX920BKZRGX8J8QY1N4&">Rebound</a> by by Martha I. Finney. I'm not going to let this shitty economy bring me down!<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0137021143&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />It now time to start brushing up on Spanish with the Rosetta Stone, learning more about Chile and digging up my copy of The Secret.<br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001AFFZM2&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1582701709&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1400019672&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />More to come...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-8588137723582248672009-02-23T21:10:00.000-08:002009-02-23T22:22:00.887-08:00The Reader...good book...glad I didn't go see the movie.Well, I just got back from a great vacation from Tennessee. I went to visit an old BookSpan (from back when it was Doubleday Book & Music Club) friend, Sheila. I traveled with another friend, and former BookSpan (aka Doubleday Direct) employee, Erika. (All this is irrelevant to my book review, just giving context.)<br /><br />Anyway, after Madame Bovary, my reading material had dried up, so first thing after getting a sandwich at the airport, I stopped in the bookstore to pick up a good read. <br /><br />I was drawn to Wally Lamb's book, THE HOUR I FIRST BELIEVED, but thought it was a bit too long for a vacation book (I DO plan to read it at some point). <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0060393491&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />So, I turned to the paperback bestsellers and there was THE READER by Bernhard Schlink. Two seconds later I was at the counter, making my purchase. Erika said to me, "Don't you just want to see the movie?" and I forgot my exact answer, but I pretty much said, "no."<br /><br />I finished 80% of the book on the plane. Its a story of a young boy growing up in Europe in the 40's, who encounters this woman and they develop a strange relationship and he falls in love and they become each other's world, until one day she disappears. Years later, they are reunited under the strange circumstances...and the story unfolds from there. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0307454894&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />Lots of sex, lots of reading...and that's about it. I am not quite sure how THE READER works as a movie, though I hear it got good reviews, but I think I am pretty happy with just reading the book. I left it in Tennessee with a rating of 3 of 5 stars. <br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>"How was Tennessee," you ask???</strong> Great. I had the best time ever. From the Peabody Hotel, watching the ducks march up a red carpet into a fountain, to Peanut Butter and Banana sandwiches at Graceland, hanging out at Sun Studios, to Fried Chicken at Gus's to a day trip to Nashville, a side trip to Walmart, and the Rock and Roll Hall of fame....it was FANTASTIC. I had lots of laughs with Sheila and Erika. And best of all, now I can check a few more items off my <a href="http://lifeafterjohngrisham.blogspot.com/2008/09/dave-freeman-author-of-100-things-to-do.html">1001 places to Visit Before You Die</a> to-do list. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWLpcWzW1TWUPa9RJdPdwKbvwul4E-ZKT0VmDW_aMpW8ULlfxHIiSatoJZ9BVeDSIRAUb9D6RZP2sJAKFEmPsAgAHOiUu4yuWfQsUhcvS5IL8iBn8D9A4MAJXFGHWLimZvaM6/s1600-h/n618462188_2110155_2309%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWLpcWzW1TWUPa9RJdPdwKbvwul4E-ZKT0VmDW_aMpW8ULlfxHIiSatoJZ9BVeDSIRAUb9D6RZP2sJAKFEmPsAgAHOiUu4yuWfQsUhcvS5IL8iBn8D9A4MAJXFGHWLimZvaM6/s200/n618462188_2110155_2309%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306233968802252658" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />And...most important of all, I picked up my latest read...CARELESS LOVE: The unmaking of Elvis Presley. <br /><br /><br /><br />I found this treasure in Sun Studios. Erika, Sheila and I stopped here right after Graceland. Its the studio where Elvis made his first recording and the home of many other singing greats. We liked the place so much, that after a fantastic tour, we hung out in the gift shop for another 30 minutes or so, and had coffee and ice cream shakes. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWNK72qny3gDkuPbyY4LUnRmd0_mRoMK2IMqU6XWKU559Cwi6bEDXqY8q7aTWwg-EgYRVX8xmVv3qb34kYhb-6PD7GoZV1kcUyrHBpi45AMkpY2CqbLZ86CAIaHmZtNNpd7z2/s1600-h/n1484910067_218245_2693%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWNK72qny3gDkuPbyY4LUnRmd0_mRoMK2IMqU6XWKU559Cwi6bEDXqY8q7aTWwg-EgYRVX8xmVv3qb34kYhb-6PD7GoZV1kcUyrHBpi45AMkpY2CqbLZ86CAIaHmZtNNpd7z2/s200/n1484910067_218245_2693%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306235379064397282" /></a><br /><br />I had been searching for an Elvis biography in the shops at Graceland, but couldn't find anything good... While I was waiting for my shake to be made, I found this book and bought it on the spot. <br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0316332976&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />I've been reading this book since I got home from Tennessee last week. The book references many of Elvis's songs and movies, and the best part of technology today is that at a click of a button, I can experience it all. Not only can I see how much weight Elvis gained from movie to movie, but I can hear how beautiful he sang a particular song the author mentioned. The book really comes to life with this extra media support from YouTube. It just takes me a little longer than if I tried to read the book straight through.<br /><br />Here is my favorite clip of all...I only wish I could see the outtakes...<br /><br /><embed src="http://www.metacafe.com/fplayer/1471063/dogs_life.swf" width="400" height="345" wmode="transparent" allowFullScreen="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"> </embed><br><font size = 1><a href="http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1471063/dogs_life/">Dog's Life.</a> - <a href="http://www.metacafe.com/">Watch the best video clips here</a></font>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-14452853109237717112009-02-17T18:25:00.000-08:002009-02-17T18:31:39.471-08:00Madame Bovary...I think I missed something in translation.So Madame Bovary was just another book on my reading list. It was something that I always wanted to read, but never got the chance. So I did, and it was an interesting story, but nothing to write home about. It also took me FOREVER to read. I just couldn't get into more than a few pages at the time. All in all, I give it 2 stars. Someone, anyone tell me what I missed?<br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0140449124&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-70827295910127680022009-01-07T20:45:00.000-08:002009-01-07T22:12:10.176-08:00New Year, New DietThat's right. Last year I was on the Duke Diet. The turning point was my friend Kim's wedding. I felt fat and gross and was in a size 18 dress that I hated but it was the only thing that fit me. I was single and didn't care about meeting someone, and I was literally miserable.<br /><br />Well, the Duke Diet worked for me. I got some new recipes, and payed attention to what I was eating. I started feeling like a million dollars. Then I got a trainer, and he helped push me to a better body. I definitely could not have done it by myself.<br /><br />My trainer Catalino definitely helped me change my body...and I went from a size 18 to a 14. My clothes fit better, and people started to notice. Not everything showed on the scale...but I was happy with the results.<br /><br />I started dating (not too much success, but I got out there). But what I am most happy about is that I rode 100 miles better than ever before (over 2 days). Then I did a 75 mile one day ride. They were my best rides ever, and I am so proud of my succcess.<br /><br /><br />BEFORE:<br /><a href="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v123/117/122/618462188/n618462188_252126_1402.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 332px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v123/117/122/618462188/n618462188_252126_1402.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />AFTER<br /><br /><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 413px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 334px" alt="" src="http://images2b.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp533%3C8%3Enu%3D3236%3E84%3B%3E757%3EWSNRCG%3D3237%3A7%3C%3B48575nu0mrj" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://photos-h.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v361/117/122/618462188/n618462188_1454231_8735.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 222px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 369px" alt="" src="http://photos-h.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v361/117/122/618462188/n618462188_1454231_8735.jpg" border="0" /></a> For the most part, I was good...but after my friend Jen's wedding in June, I kind of gave it all up.<br />Recently , I fell off the wagon when it came to drinking and ordering out (same old story). Fried Chicken, Onion Rings and French Fries snuck back into my cravings (been avoiding for years). I topped off the new year with a trip to Philly for 2 Philly Cheesesteaks.<br /><br />So now I am on to JOY'S LIFE DIET, crafted by celebrated nutritionist, Joy Bauer. I'm doing a secret video blog. If I get past 3 weeks, I'll start sharing. I really want to get down to 170 lbs. I think (no I KNOW) I can do it with Joy.<br /><br />So far the recipes are reasonable, not too many ingredients, and the ones you buy, you totally use. (There is nothing worse than buying ingredients that are only good for one recipe). Its only been a few days, but I am actually full after each meal and that is a very good feeling.<br /><br />I have to plan each day in advance, because I really can't throw things together at the last minute.<br /><br />I haven't been tested by eating out...but hopefully I can stay on track...(<em>STAY AWAY, FRIED CHICKEN...you are NOT my friend! ...I'm sorry...I will always LOVE YOU and your crispy breading!)</em><br /><br />The only thing I am having trouble with is the 30 mins of exercises every day. Today Catalino kicked my butt...I just have to get more exercise in for the rest of the week.<br /><br />Anyway, I plan to follow Joy's plan religiously. I want to (no, I WILL) look and feel even better than ever.<br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061665746&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-18929942899792054132009-01-07T20:20:00.000-08:002009-01-07T20:43:57.395-08:00Now...on to the ClassicsI'm EMBARRASSED to say that I never read Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger. Oh...its been on my reading lists in school, but I always chose another book, because I just thought it was a book about baseball. <br /><br />Clearly, I was wrong. And it is a shame. I would have loved reading this book in high school. Holden Caulfield, is a rich, smart ass teenager, just kicked out of his prep school headed home to NYC. He delays going to his parents house, because he doesn't want to tell them he got kicked out again...this book is the story of what happend during this time. The book was written in 1951, but it totally could have taken place today. LOVED IT 4 of 5 stars. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0316769177&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />I tried to read Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie. I can't get into it...but I definately will try again. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0812976711&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />So...I am picking up Madame Bovary. So far I am enjoying it. I will probably take the bus next week, so I can get in more reading time. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0140449124&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />OHHHHHH Book Angel....Could use a few more books to feed the habit....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-73693060713317968142008-12-27T21:19:00.000-08:002008-12-27T22:13:56.582-08:00My "date" with ObamaSo I got stood up on Friday by Brad, my latest <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">eHarmony</span> date, so I picked up Barack Obama (<a href="http://astore.amazon.com/httpbookltore-20/detail/1400082773">his book that is</a>) and we had a very enjoyable time.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1400082773&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />Barack and I walked down memory lane with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400082773?tag=httpbookltore-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=1400082773&adid=14YZD1GP0HY6DAR5AAD3&">DREAMS FROM MY FATHER</a>. Let me tell you, this guy worked hard his whole life to make a mark on this world, while still trying to find his place in it. This book is his personal story as a man who never really knew his father. It is the story of his work as a community organizer in Chicago, and then his story of his journey Kenya in his late 20s to meet his family for the first time. All I can say is that he is a very gifted writer, and now more than ever, I know I made the right vote.<br /><br /><br />I think Barak's journey it is probably a journey that everyone goes through (in one degree or another) in their lives. At some point, I think everyone finds themselves wishing that they had had all the right conversations and asked the important questions before a loved one dies. It is the desire to find out what makes you tick, and how much of this you inherited, and how much is your own nature. <br /><br />I admire Obama and his writing and found him to be a wonderful Friday Night date, even though I wish it was a romantic dinner with a new love interest...but I'm not bitter.<br /><br />Anyway. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. And I am glad this man is going to be our president.<br /><br />Next book? Not sure. I think I might dig out THE SECRET again. I need some inspiration as we go into 2009.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-73963920965172228642008-12-23T09:40:00.000-08:002008-12-23T11:35:46.114-08:00Back to MY reading list...I'm back to reading for pleasure. <br /><br />I just finished (in 2 days) FAITH OF MY FATHERS by John McCain. I bought this book after watching his biography on Time Warner on Demand for the Biography Channel. It was well done, and it made me want to hear about McCain in his own words. Then I watched the one on Obama...it made me want to read his book too, and I ordered them together. <br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061734950&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />FAITH OF MY FATHERS by John McCain chronicles the impressive military life of his grandfather, father and McCain's captivity as a POW in the Vietnam war. Maverick sure does run in McCain's blood, but his code of honor runs even deeper. He must have endured more than anyone can imagine during his capture, but I think it was his honor, along with his determination to always get the last word with his captors that kept him together mentally during his long captivity.<br /><br />At some times the book was a little too much honoring the men he served with (understandably). And I don't think he captured all the moments vividly...but I got the picture. <br /><br />McCain is a good man, and while he didn't make the presidency I respect him for his service to our country. <br /><br />I give his book 4 of 5 stars. Next on my list is Obama's book.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-86694698639001585082008-12-23T09:00:00.000-08:002008-12-23T09:40:10.079-08:00Jesus for the Non-ReligiousSo I met Bishop Spong and his wife at a wonderful lunch. They were absolutely the sweetest people I ever met. I wanted to go home with them and be a part of their family. As we were leaving the restaurant, I told Bishop Spong that I was reading Jesus for the Non-Religious and that so far I get that Jesus was a nice guy. He told me you haven't finished the book yet. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001KBZ6AW&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />So I finished the book. What I got out of it, is that Jesus was so inspiring and was later, through the writings of the apostles, made into someone who fit into mold of the Jewish scriptures to gain acceptance, understanding and ultimately followers by those in the Jewish faith. Today, in order for Christianity to survive, we have get back to the basics on what Jesus was all about, which is ultimately creating a better humanity. <br /><br />I enjoyed this book, probably mostly because it helped me understand what Bishop Spong is all about. It was well written and easy to follow. Spong mentions, Elaine Pagels, author of the GNOSTIC GOSPELS. I also read her book BEYOND BELIEF, which looks at the gospel of Thomas, and made me realize that much that I have been exposed to in the Catholic faith is only what the church has decided to share with its followers. I feel that Spongs book does much of the same. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000FC1MEQ&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />All and all it was an interesting read. Keeps the mind always thinking.<br />4 of 5 stars.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-44412904670675455472008-11-17T19:09:00.000-08:002008-11-17T19:29:51.536-08:00New books are coming in...but I am stuck in reading hell.So I ordered a few books from Alibris.com....I like this site, because you can get older books for a really good price. They started arriving yesterday, <br /><br />But now I have to finish <strong>Jesus for the Non-Religious</strong>, by Bishop Spong. Its not reading hell becuase it is a bad book, but it like assigned reading because I am meeting the author in a few weeks, and I want to be familiar with his work. <br /><br />So far, the book breaks down everything I know about Jesus from the bible...it leaves me questioning if Jesus isn't who I think is...then who is he? So now I HAVE to finish the book. <br /><br />In the meantime, I have John McCain's biography sitting on my shelf at work, along with Catcher in the Rye and Satanic Verses (don't ask). <br /><br />So that's that. More to come. <br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0060778415&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-50446726285591491692008-11-08T07:53:00.000-08:002008-11-08T08:31:28.133-08:00The Archangel Project by C. S. Graham thank you Book AngelI just finished The Archangel Project by C. S. Graham. This was a gift from Book Angel Erika, and it was a good read. The book takes place in New Orleans, where I was recently for vacation. I recognized many of the places they mentioned such as Lee's circle and the D-Day Museum. The story centers around a woman named October (AKA Tobie), who was recently discharged from the military and is now involved in a remote viewing research project. Tobie unknowingly uncovers a terrorist conspiracy and now she is on the run for her life. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061351202&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><br />I liked this book. I give it 3 of 5 stars. <br /><br /><br />I'm ordering my next two reads from Amazon. I know I made the right choice this election...but I was watching their stories on the biography channel and decided I would like to learn more about them.<br /><br /><SCRIPT charset="utf-8" type="text/javascript" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822/US/httpbookltore-20/8001/21924f60-4a17-4591-b4b1-3002de3a8518"> </SCRIPT> <NOSCRIPT><A HREF="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fhttpbookltore-20%2F8001%2F21924f60-4a17-4591-b4b1-3002de3a8518&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></NOSCRIPT>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-74931344676498398722008-11-06T19:53:00.000-08:002008-11-06T20:40:29.580-08:00The Story of Edgar SawtelleSo I have a story about <strong>The Story of Edgar Sawtelle: A Novel</strong> by David Wroblewski.<br /><br />I was walking out of the gym one night, with this NYT Bestseller under my arm and one of the trainers stopped me and said, "Excuse me, can I ask you a question?...What book is that?" And points to the book under my arm. I was caught off guard, one, because I wasn't expecting the question and two, I had a gym towel around my neck under my coat, and I thought he was trying to catch me walking out with it.<br /><br />Anyway...I started to babble. I don't recall what I said exactly, but I stuttered that it was about a boy that couldn't speak and he has a dog and he trains dogs and that there was a murder.<br /><br />The trainer looked at me funny and said, "Ooookay...is it good?" I answered, "Yes, yes it is..." and ran out of the gym with my stolen towel (and NO, I don't feel bad...I could put a child through college with the amount of money I spend in that gym. The towels should be embroidered with my name of them!). Anyway, weeks later, I still can't figure out a good way to describe the story.<br /><br />You know what? I don't know if there is a good way to explain it. NYT describes, "A mute takes refuge with three dogs in the Wisconsin woods after his father’s death. " Is that really that much different than my explaination?<br /><br />Was it good...yes, very. I give it 4 out of 5 stars. Why don't you read it and explain it yourself.<br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061768065&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br />I am finishing up another book from my book angel Erika, The Archangel Project by C. S. Graham. Strangely enough, like the Broken Window, it deals with the issue of big brother and how you can be tracked by your cell phone and credit cards and travel. My mother and I went to AC this weekend and had a discussion on all you would have to do to truly disappear. I decided, if I have to do so, I'm going to Mexico...Canada's way too cold! Anyway...enjoying the book.<br /><br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061351202&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br />In case you are wondering...here's the latest NYT Bestseller list. Only 3 on my radar.<br /><br />1 EXTREME MEASURES, by Vince Flynn. (Atria, $27.95.) Mitch Rapp teams up with a C.I.A. colleague to fight a terrorist cell — and the politicians who would rein them in.<br /><br />2 THE BRASS VERDICT, by Michael Connelly. (Little, Brown, $26.) Harry Bosch and Mickey Haller (the Lincoln lawyer) team up to find a killer.<br /><br />3 THE LUCKY ONE, by Nicholas Sparks. (Grand Central, $24.99.) A marine returning home sets out to track down the woman whose photo he found in Iraq.<br /><br />4 BONES, by Jonathan Kellerman. (Ballantine, $27.) The psychologist-detective Alex Delaware is called in when women’s bodies keep turning up in a Los Angeles marsh.<br /><br />5 THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE, by David Wroblewski. (Ecco, $25.95.) A mute takes refuge with three dogs in the Wisconsin woods after his father’s death.<br /><br /><br />6 ROUGH WEATHER, by Robert B. Parker. (Putnam, $26.95.) The Boston private eye Spenser gets involved when a gunman kidnaps the bride from her wedding on a private island.<br /><br />7 A LION AMONG MEN, by Gregory Maguire. (Morrow, $26.95.) A looming civil war in Oz, seen through the eyes of the Cowardly Lion; Book 3 of the Wicked Years.<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>8* TESTIMONY, by Anita Shreve. (Little, Brown, $25.99.) </strong></span><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">A sex scandal at a Vermont prep school is caught on tape.<br /><br />9 A MOST WANTED MAN, by John le Carré. (Scribner, $28.) Intelligence agencies converge in Hamburg when a young Muslim man with mysterious connections shows up.</span></strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /></span><br />10* DARK SUMMER, by Iris Johansen. (St. Martin’s, $26.95.) A veterinarian cares for an injured dog with an amazing secret.<br /><br />11 ONE FIFTH AVENUE, by Candace Bushnell. (Hyperion, $25.95.) The worlds of gossip, theater and hedge funds have one address in common.<br /><br />12 THE HOST, by Stephenie Meyer. (Little, Brown, $25.99.) One woman won’t surrender to the aliens that have taken control.<br /><br />13 HEAT LIGHTNING, by John Sandford. (Putnam, $26.95.) Virgil Flowers investigates murder cases linked by a lemon in the mouth of each victim.<br /><br />14 MILLENNIUM FALCON, by James Luceno. (Del Rey, $26.) Jacen Solo’s daughter, Allana, discovers a curious device aboard her grandfather Han’s beloved spacecraft; a “Star Wars” book.<br /><br />15 THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY, by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. (Dial, $22.) A journalist meets the island’s old Nazi resisters. 12<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>16* THE OTHER QUEEN, by Philippa Gregory. (Touchstone, $25.95.) The captivity of Mary, Queen of Scots.<br /><br /><br /></strong></span><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong></strong></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-10042102958948475682008-10-13T22:59:00.000-07:002008-10-14T06:11:54.878-07:00Romance Shomomance- An Essay by BarbI've been reading for over 30 years. I honestly think the best romance I ever read was <strong>Forever by Judy Blume</strong>. It probably wasn't that good, and maybe it wasn't even really a romance, but I was about 12 years old and it had some sexy scenes in it and at the time, it was a thrill and I remember it being a good book.<br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1416934006&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br />Now, I pick up a romance and I am turned off. What exactly is my problem? I think I finally figured it out. Its the one liners from the female characters that pisses me off.<br /><br /><blockquote><p><em>"Oh...I'm so innocent, and 5 paragraphs ago I was afraid of you and incredibly virginal, Mr. Rough&Tough, and now all of the sudden, I am going to win you over with my incredible whit and save you from your mean ways. For the past 4 chapters, you were gruff and tough, but now under my recently discovered sexpot spell you are as gentle as a lamb and we will have fantastic sex every chance we get for the next 100 pages, and even when we are in danger and only have a few minutes before the bad guys come to kill us, I'll make sure I crack you up with a few more of my sexy (as sexy as it gets for a recently former virgin who grew up in a convent) one liners ...that will make you thirst for my body even more..." </em></p><p></p><p><em></em></p><p><em>"Oh, I'm the 30 something ugly duckling and I have no luck with men, and now that I met you, Mr. Handyman, the sexiest man alive, the man who I have miraculously won over, despite my best efforts to resist you and your good deeds. I've finally gave in to you and now you've <strong>drilled and hammered</strong> me and I think <strong>I need to be spackeled</strong> ...and now Mr. Sexy Handyman, I am going to sex you up with my <strong>tool chest</strong> of double entendre lines that you have heard before, but coming from me, they will be so sexy that you'll growl at me and devour my body and I will spend the next ten chapters teasing you every time we talk so that all you can think about is <strong>nailing</strong> me in every corner of the planet." </em></p><blockquote><p align="left"><em></em></p></blockquote></blockquote><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0hINnnVQ9Zo&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0hINnnVQ9Zo&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />I'm sorry...Its not that I don't believe in a good romance. I guess I'm waiting for that incredible one that you just can't put down. "Are you there JudyBlume?... It's me Barb"<br /><br />Anyone have a good romance for me to read? If you stand behind it...I'll read it. In the meantime, I'll read THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE, by David Wroblewski.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-27741001693895190832008-10-09T20:28:00.000-07:002008-10-13T23:48:59.476-07:00First...a note about Stone Street...then A Broken Window by Jeffrey Deaver<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdosYX_zfv3bZq8QfmfxUQP4ZV26a6Y1GM-YeFDjEwkg63QZOMtVOCm69qLgVp5BKUdpdcOdUJ9VDsHEtlMTByZ_jqT2F5KG7GyLejD0_DONhjvK8znhcUgJ-z4OMl98sv4XyT/s1600-h/mapdata.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255362734819562850" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdosYX_zfv3bZq8QfmfxUQP4ZV26a6Y1GM-YeFDjEwkg63QZOMtVOCm69qLgVp5BKUdpdcOdUJ9VDsHEtlMTByZ_jqT2F5KG7GyLejD0_DONhjvK8znhcUgJ-z4OMl98sv4XyT/s320/mapdata.gif" border="0" /></a> So I was having a birthday dinner with my two Book Angels (and friends) Erika and Sharon. ...<br /><br />We meeting at a great pizza place on Stone Street called Adrianne's Pizza Bar (Sarah Gallick first introduced me to it). Its now one of my favorite spots in Manhattan.<br /><br />Anyway, while I was waiting with Sharon, I TRIED to give her the history of the street, and all I knew was it was the first paved street in the area. She wasn't impressed.<br /><br />I researched...here's what the Downtown Alliance says about it:<br /><br /><blockquote>"Stone Street was one of the New World’s very first paved streets, laid out by Dutch colonists in the 1600s...Today it's an only-in-New York setting for an appealing cluster of restaurants and bars; every summer evening finds a festive crowd strolling along Stone Street to enjoy its sidewalk cafes."<br /></blockquote><p align="left"></p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">I'm sorry Sharon, that's all there is to it...but BOY was the pizza at <a href="http://local.botw.org/New_York/New_York/Adriannes_Pizza_Bar/684033345.html">Adrianne's </a>good! Both Sharon and Erika said that they would come back if they could find it. </p><p align="left"></p><p align="left"><strong>Now...on to the reading... </strong></p><p align="left">I just finished THE BROKEN WINDOW by Jeffery Deaver. This was a LONG one, but it kept me going. I wanted to call up Mr. Deaver and say..."FOR GOD SAKES...who did it already???" I can't tell you how many nights I took this book to bed with me, hoping to get through another chapter...closer to the answer. The story deals with Identity Theft and how someone with a little bit of access could ruin your reputation and ruin your life...I give this one 3.5 of 5 stars....It was a good read, glad I didn't wait for the movie though...It would definately be a 2 1/2 hour jobbie.</p><br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1416549978&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="left">I'm on to my next read in preparation for my trip to New Orleans next week. Dance with The Devil by Sherrilyn Kenyon. Not my normal stuff...but since the trip has to do with the author herself, I figured I should become familiar with her works.<br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0312984839&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br />Right behind it, I'm ready to plunge into NYT Bestseller THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE, by David Wroblewski, the latest and greatest gift from Sharon! She always knows what I like!<br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061768065&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-81552113980874694632008-09-10T17:52:00.000-07:002008-09-10T21:35:08.068-07:00THE GUERNSEY LITERARY and POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY...its a mouthful....but is damn good!So I just finished this "blue ribbon" beauty, THE GUERNSEY LITERARY and POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY. Sharon sure knows how to pick 'em. It was cute, funny, romantic and charming. The authors, Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows do a wonderful job of telling a story though letters. I liked this book a lot. I give it 4 of 5 stars. This book is currently 3 on the NYT bestseller. NICE.<br /><br /><br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0385340990&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br />I'm working through the Jeffery Deaver...been driving to work, so its slow going!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-55353373980210455622008-09-09T18:01:00.000-07:002008-09-10T21:32:23.976-07:00Haven't been watching the NYT Bestseller List...Looks like I haven't missed much...Here's the latest list... I am going to highlight a few in <span style="color:#ff0000;">RED </span>for future consideration.<br /><br /><strong><br />SEPT 5, 2008<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">NYT</span> BESTSELLER LIST</strong><br /><br /><br />1 DEVIL BONES, by Kathy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Reichs</span>. (Scribner, $25.95.) In the 11<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> Temperance Brennan mystery, the forensic anthropologist must identify two victims of voodoo and devil worship. 1<br /><br />2 THE GYPSY MORPH, by Terry Brooks. (Del Rey/ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ballantine</span>, $27.) In the third volume of the Genesis of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Shannara</span> series, champions of the Word and the Void clash. 1<br /><br /><br />3 THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY, by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. (Dial, $22.) After World War II, a journalist travels to the island of Guernsey to meet residents who resisted the Nazi occupation. 3 5<br /><br />4 SILKS, by Dick Francis and Felix Francis. (Putnam, $25.95.) A British defense lawyer and amateur jockey reluctantly represents another jockey who seems to be guilty of murder. 1<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">5 THE HOST, by Stephenie Meyer. (Little, Brown, $25.99.) Aliens have taken control of the minds and bodies of most humans, but one woman won’t surrender. 5 17<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">6* THE STORY OF EDGAR <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SAWTELLE</span>, by David <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Wroblewski</span>. (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Ecco</span>, $25.95.) A mute takes<br />refuge with three dogs in the Wisconsin woods after his father’s murder. 8 12<br /></span><br />7 THE <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">BOURNE</span> SANCTION, by Eric Van <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Lustbader</span>. (Grand Central, $25.99.) Robert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Ludlum</span>’s character Jason <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Bourne</span> pursues the leader of a Muslim terrorist group. 4 5<br /><br />8* SMOKE SCREEN, by Sandra Brown. (Simon & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Schuster</span>, $26.95.) Scandalous deaths thwart the investigation of a fatal fire at police headquarters in Charleston, S.C. 2 3<br /><br />9 THE FORCE UNLEASHED, by Sean Williams. (Del Rey, $26.) An apprentice to Darth Vader is dispatched to kill the last of his master’s enemies; a “Star Wars” novel. 1 2<br /><br />10 MOSCOW RULES, by Daniel Silva. (Putnam, $26.95.) Gabriel <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Allon</span>, an art restorer and an occasional spy for the Israeli secret service, uncovers a Russian arms sales plot. 7 6<br /><br />11 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">ACHERON</span>, by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Sherrilyn</span> Kenyon. (St. Martin’s, $24.95.) Book 12 of the Dark-Hunter paranormal series. 6 4<br /><br />12 OFF SEASON, by Anne Rivers <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Siddons</span>. (Grand Central, $24.95.) A widow returns to her hometown in Maine. 9 3<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">13 THE LACE READER, by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Brunonia</span> Barry. (Morrow, $24.95.) Secrets of a family of Salem women who foresee the future. 10 5<br /></span><br />14* ROUGH JUSTICE, by Jack Higgins. (Putnam, $25.95.) Violence and intrigue await an American agent in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Kosovo</span>. 15 2<br /><br />15 THE MERCEDES COFFIN, by Faye <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Kellerman</span>. (Morrow, $25.95.) Decker and Lazarus investigate cases of murder victims found in Mercedes-Benz trunks. 11 3<br /><br /><br />16 THE LAUGHTER OF DEAD KINGS, by Elizabeth Peters.(Morrow, $25.95.) The art historian and sleuth Vicky Bliss must discover who stole an Egyptian relic. 3Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-57770040161686091152008-09-07T11:05:00.000-07:002008-09-07T11:15:13.002-07:00Dave Freeman author of 100 Things to Do Before You Die...DIES!!!My goodness. I was reading People Magazine the other day and was SHOCKED to see the author of "100 Things to Do Before You Die" DIED.<br /><br />Dave Freeman, an advertising executive who co-authored the 1999 book with friend Neil Teplica, died on Aug 17 at the age of 47 after hitting his head in a fall at his California home.<br /><br />SERIOUSLY NOW!!! He only did only 50 of his 100 adventures!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=087833243X&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />I just spoke to my friend Erika about this. We have the book <strong>1000 Places to See in the US and Canada Before You Die</strong>. Over the summer, Erika and I went to Niagra Falls and visited the Anchor Bar, home of the Buffalo Wing. I just asked her if we could schedule another trip...this time to waterfalls in Pennsylvania. As David proved in his short life...Life is too short to wait around to get things done.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0761136916&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-34322069023325618152008-09-07T10:51:00.000-07:002008-09-10T17:52:02.357-07:00Book Angels are BACKSo I saw my old BookSpan friends Sharon and Erika for dinner the other night. It was absolutely wonderful to see them. We had a great time talking about old times and how much fun work used to be. And then Sharon pointed to her bag and said, "I've got 2 books for you." I couldn't have imagined anything better.<br /><br />I'm reading the first book now. THE GUERNSEY LITERARY and POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY. This was one of Sharon's recent favorites. The story is told through a series of letters between Juliet and her friends as well as members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Sharon she told me how much she enjoyed this book and how she made this a "Blue Ribbon Book" since there is no longer a Bertelsmann International Book of the Month (IBOMC). The Book Club edition has a beautiful blue ribbon to help you hold your place in the book. Sharon always has the best taste in books, so I can't wait to read this one. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0385340990&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />The second book is THE BROKEN WINDOW by Jeffery Deaver. I've read Deaver's books before, so I am sure I will enjoy this one too. <br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1416549978&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />I think my book angels are back...hope to have more great reads to tell you about soon!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-6919664161237990402008-09-06T10:23:00.000-07:002008-09-07T11:16:19.950-07:00A few purchases add to my sad little reading listSo I was waiting for my friend Jen to get out of her classes at Hunter College so we could go see a movie Friday Night. We went to go see Hamlet 2 (I owe Jen 2 hours of her life back). Anyway...I stopped into the local bookstore and picked up a few books to read.<br /><br />One was a no brainer - THE SECRET by Rhonda Byrne. I have been meaning to get this book for months. I paid premium book store price for it, but I thought if it works, it will be worth it. I'll let you know if it works in the next few months. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=1582701709&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe> <br /><br />The second book was GASPIPE: CONFESSIONS OF A MAFIA BOSS by Philip Carlo. Don't ask me why I bought it, I don't know. I am not sure if it was the cover, or the subject matter (the mafia) that made me do it. Also paid premium price for this book, but I figured after all the books I read for free, it wouldn't hurt to pay for a few. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061429848&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br />Growing up on Staten Island, I've always been fascinated with the mob. I personally enjoyed the story of how this guy, Anthony Casso worked his way up to become the head of the Lucchese family and then turn a tragic government witness (AKA "Rat") in the hopes of protecting himself and family. Even though Casso tried to get himself a deal with all the information he gave the government, today he serves 455 years in prison in Colorado. All in all, this is a good read and I am sure will one day make a good movie. I give 3 1/2 out of 5 stars.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-69687411720244197412008-09-05T10:12:00.000-07:002008-09-07T10:22:55.297-07:00A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN - why didn't I read this sooner?So I was visiting my friend Deirdre and her family the other day. In the middle of the conversation, she handed me a copy of A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN by Betty Smith and asked me if I had read it before. I told her no, and so she said it was a really good book and I could have it if I wanted. You know me, I never turn down a free book. So I said yes, thank you. Her 3 year old son Lucas took the book and hid it under a pillow while we were talking. I almost left without the book, but D ran after me as I headed to the car...book in hand. I thanked her again. <br /><br />AND OH...What a pleasure it was! This book tells the story of a young girl growing up in Brooklyn in the early 1900s. It was a slow read, but it captured the moments of Francie Nolan and her family absolutely perfectly. I remember having this book on my reading list growing up, but I guess I was never was interested in reading it. I am glad Deirdre passed it along. I give it 5 of 5 stars. A new favorite on my list.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0061120073&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31902812.post-56924466381577910792008-09-04T09:47:00.000-07:002008-09-07T10:12:08.425-07:00Bringing Elizabeth Home - an oldie but a goodieSo I read a few books in the past couple of weeks. As I mentioned in my previous post, new reads are few and far in between, so now I have to go through my bookshelf for the books I have collected, but never bothered to open. <br /><br />The first of these was <strong>BRINGING ELIZABETH HOME </strong>by Ed and Lois Smart. The book was published in 2003, so that's how old it was, but all in all, it was an enjoyable read. Lois and Ed tell of how their beautiful daughter Elizabeth was kidnapped from their family home, on June 2002. They tell of how they kept intense faith in God and struggeled to maintain their family, with one of their cherished members missing. It is a story of hope, faith and perserverence. All in all, I give this book 4 of 5 stars. Its a good read and something different. <br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0385512147&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /> <br />Today, Elizabeth has grown into a beautiful woman. She was on the Nancy Grace show in 2006, and did not allow Ms. Grace to bully her into telling her story or answer her ridiculous questions. It was quite amazing.<br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5x8ARIxg51I&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5x8ARIxg51I&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />I also read these two paperbacks...THE BLUE ZONE by Andrew Gross (he's wrote a ton of books with James Patterson) and STORM RUNNER by T. Jefferson Parker. I got these books FREE from either my Book Angel or someone else. They were free, so I can't complain, but they were predictible thrillers so I don't even want to bother to write about them any further. Each get 2out of 5 stars. <br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001CJS6EA&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=httpbookltore-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0060854243&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0