tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14709709485263817082024-03-06T17:26:51.813+11:00TexErin-in-SydneyLandI make lists. <br>
I read books. <br>
I like clothes, food, music, my fur babies, travel, and loads of other stuff too. <br>
I may write about any or all of these things. Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.comBlogger585125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-39453773471812215112020-04-14T14:29:00.003+10:002020-04-15T15:16:27.363+10:00I'll show you my books, you show me yours 2020 v.1<div>
I have not blogged in over 2 years, but I can't think of anything better to pull me out of a blogging hibernation than a <b>Show Us Your Books</b> link-up! So, here I am. The beauty of <a href="https://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a> and <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> (and all the other SUYB gang) is I know you all will welcome me back. Thanks, readers.<br />
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What's been happening in my life for the last two years? I suppose that's content for another post to get myself back into the blogging game. But for now, I'm "stood down" meaning I still have a job but have no idea when I will be back to work. So, a SUYB link-up is perfect stimulation and escapism for me right now.<br />
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Will I continue blogging? Don't know? Will I read every SUYB link this month? Yep. Can't wait to see/read some familiar faces I interacted with years ago, those that still participate in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">my book challenge</a>, and new book-lovin' peeps too.<br />
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<a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Life According to Steph"><img alt="Life According to Steph" src="https://i.imgur.com/meHWuDf.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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Uhmmmm...how do I start? Let's see last link up was the 10th of March, 2020...so these are the books I've read since then. That's how this works, correct?<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30240528-dropped-third-strike" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="305" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxLyKaHzz6UE6nP85nPWqCPkavlNTzUPHQBOHlsiI8-YNm_xqzarWBMeARs1ON554iFsHdUpyT59brxEM5bsaynf459gmoYiHDoA1tovZ_EmfylLQNG76LF36PfK0BFeS_ZTYHTqeG-HR/s320/dropped.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
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1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30240528-dropped-third-strike" target="_blank">Dropped Third Strike by Micah K. Chaplin</a> - What a great way to jump back into the blogging game...promoting a blogger's book. (Does Micah still blog? Let me go check. Yes! Here's her blog: <a href="http://unabashedly--me.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Unabashedly Me</a>) We participated in a book swap years ago, and Micah kindly sent a copy of her book to me. I'm pretty awful about reading the books I own because I love going to the library so much, so it sat on my shelf. Welllll, fast forward to now and no baseball. I thought it was finally the perfect time to read a book that baseball plays such an important role. But, this book is more than baseball. There's a strong female lead and characters that I became invested in. I enjoyed the writing style and how it smoothly transitioned from one character's voice to another's. <br />
If you are missing baseball like I am, I recommend this book. 4/5</div>
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29780253-born-a-crime" target="_blank">Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah</a> - due to so many rave reviews telling me to read this book, I finally did. What a life. What a story. What a man. What a mom who helped shape the man. 5/5<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43521642-heaven-my-home" target="_blank">Heaven, My Home by Attica Lake</a> - This is a follow-up book to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40605488-bluebird-bluebird" target="_blank">Bluebird, Bluebird</a>...a book I enjoyed so much I put in my reservation for this one immediately after finishing it. This one was...fine...but not nearly as rich as the first. Would I recommend it to others that read Bluebird, Bluebird? Yes. Do I think you need to rush to do so? No. 3.5/5<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34810320-sadie" target="_blank">Sadie by Courtney Summers</a> - Sometimes a book has so much hype surrounding it that my expectations are too high. I think that happened with this one. Or, maybe it's because I don't listen to podcasts, so I just missed that connection entirely. But, I had to push myself through the first half of this book because of the rave reviews I'd seen. I just wasn't feeling it. I actually enjoyed the ending (which some readers loved the book but were unsatisfied with the ending), so I'm just sitting in the minority on this one. 2.5/5<br />
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40513028-a-lesson-in-violence" target="_blank"> A Lesson in Violence by Jordan Harper</a> - Sometimes, Australia likes to confuse me and release books with a different title here than in the U.S. This is one of those. I'm pretty sure it's called <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23361199-she-rides-shotgun?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=y8Nu01nEaQ&rank=1" target="_blank">She Rides Shotgun</a> in America. This book is brutal and brilliant. Some of the writing seemed simple, but I found that added to its brilliance because the subject matter and character development was so far from simple. 5/5<br />
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I did it! I wrote a blog post again! Go me! I hope my blog email still works...….<br />
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Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-26078778142900070402018-01-02T09:22:00.003+11:002018-01-02T09:22:55.820+11:00New year, new postLet's state the obvious, 2017 was not a good blogging year for me. Sadly, I don't see many changes for 2018 to be a good blogging year either. But, I don't want to give this up entirely. So, it will stay a page...a page on hiatus...until I can work out a different life schedule that includes blogging again. <br />
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I hope the new year brings you love, light, new adventures, positivity, kindness, and genuine connections with good people. <br />
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Speaking of connections...<br />
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Connection with you is one of the things I enjoyed the most about blogging. So, here are places to find me, so we can stay connected:<br />
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follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/texerin/" target="_blank">instagram</a></div>
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Or follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/TexErinSydney" target="_blank">twitter</a><br />
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Or add me on snapchat (username: texerin)</div>
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Or join my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">book challenge</a></div>
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Or become my friend on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/16213330-erin-gray" target="_blank">goodreads </a></div>
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Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-15913364558456076242017-10-12T10:08:00.001+11:002017-10-12T10:10:45.965+11:00I'll show you my books, you show me yours...vol.32<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here I am again with a late post. (That's exactly how I began my last post for this link-up.) I keep intending to jump back in the blog game. Obviously, that hasn't happened. But, I was not going to let the third anniversary of Show Us Your Books pass without my acknowledgement of what a wonderful contribution this link-up has been to my reading habits. Thanks to each and every one of you for the book chats, the reviews, the recommendations, and the insight...and BIG thanks to to our hosts <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> & <a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a> for hosting this awesome book party.<br />
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<u><b>The books I've read since our last link-up </b>(it's been a couple of months, so this may be lengthy...just read my ratings to see if you're interested in reading my review):</u><br />
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1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1000751.Pollyanna" target="_blank">Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter</a> - A charming book with the reminder to always look at the glass as half full. <b><span style="color: red;">3.5/5</span></b></div>
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43081.Marching_Powder" target="_blank">Marching Powder: A True Story of Friendship, Cocaine, and South America's Strangest Jail by Rusty Young and Thomas McFadden</a> - These were definitely some fascinating tales of life for a Brit convicted of smuggling drugs and landing in a Bolivian prison. The ways of this prison are unbelievable. But, honestly, in this case, I'd have rather watched a full length documentary than read a book. Some of the story-telling dragged and felt self-indulgent. I think I'd rather see and hear Thomas tell his stories. <b><span style="color: red;">2.5/5</span></b></div>
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31952703-words-in-deep-blue" target="_blank">Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley</a> - A true gem of a YA book. A book that examines grief, love, family dynamics, coming of age, and the love of stories, words, and genuine connections with books and stories. <b><span style="color: red;">5/5</span></b> Thanks to Steph for bringing this book to my attention. </div>
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32075671-the-hate-u-give" target="_blank">The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">I don't know what I can say about this book that other readers haven't already said. Powerful. Thought-provoking.<span style="color: red;"><b> 4.75/5</b></span></span></span><br />
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18812405-the-good-girl" target="_blank">The Good Girl by Mary Kubica</a> - Eh. It was alright. I've read much more interesting, intriguing books that utilised Stockholm Syndrome in the plot. <b><span style="color: red;">2.5/5</span></b></div>
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6. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25666046-the-north-water" target="_blank">The North Water by Ian McGuire</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">Man vs. Man; Man vs. Nature; Man vs. Self ... This book has it all. The writing is so descriptive and engrossing, but it is not for the faint at heart. This book is an example of one of the many reasons I love book chats with other readers. I doubt I'd have given this one a look if it weren't for other readers' reviews. <b><span style="color: red;">4/5</span></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QwoKeC4c8A7aRs8DPpSk8uTn2SYuNy8a0Vi8T5JLdbiyziKQGx0xZGJWff3diQBCfh4cYnRM6wnfng18WIqJ7f1nLpS0gnq5NwZjE22RC2oS_S2KnApQtRvp2hSn0R1AQhAqdthB2cJe/s1600/1+of+us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QwoKeC4c8A7aRs8DPpSk8uTn2SYuNy8a0Vi8T5JLdbiyziKQGx0xZGJWff3diQBCfh4cYnRM6wnfng18WIqJ7f1nLpS0gnq5NwZjE22RC2oS_S2KnApQtRvp2hSn0R1AQhAqdthB2cJe/s320/1+of+us.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
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7. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32571395-one-of-us-is-lying" target="_blank">One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus</a> - Although it often lacked depth, I enjoyed the read from start to finish. <b><span style="color: red;">4.25/5</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyi5DXmcBQhDUrh3PFfpuCb1v1tPuLIWCXrGm11e9aNiAWj1LLq3ECLmmIcB6i668oFrOBdEruQ1lIufw-D8G2jQO6V_wEXpMoM3Rpbna0KzLrx6n2vcl_GUy2zAk3vrLaSZX6T8AXwrRj/s1600/diggers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyi5DXmcBQhDUrh3PFfpuCb1v1tPuLIWCXrGm11e9aNiAWj1LLq3ECLmmIcB6i668oFrOBdEruQ1lIufw-D8G2jQO6V_wEXpMoM3Rpbna0KzLrx6n2vcl_GUy2zAk3vrLaSZX6T8AXwrRj/s320/diggers.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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8. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8343771-the-diggers-rest-hotel" target="_blank">The Diggers Rest Hotel by Geoffrey McGeachin</a> - I'm a participant in an Aussie Author Book Challenge. This book reinforces why I participate in such a challenge. A new-to-me author writing a rich cast of characters set in an Australian community during a time I'm unfamiliar with their specific history. The "who-dun-its" weren't overly surprising, but getting to the closures made for an enjoyable read. <b><span style="color: red;">4/5</span></b></div>
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9. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33230889-the-good-daughter" target="_blank">The Good Daughter by Karin Slaughter</a> - I am a self-professed Karin Slaughter fangirl. I love her writing style, her characters, and her stories. This book is a good example of why I find her books so enjoyable. If you are a thriller fan and haven't read Karin Slaughter, this is a good one to grab. <b><span style="color: red;">4.5/5</span></b><br />
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10. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29437949-behind-closed-doors" target="_blank">Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris</a> - I am torn. I found the plot unique, yet unbelievable. At times, I couldn't put the book down. Other times, I skimmed because I was annoyed. So, I'm torn. <b><span style="color: red;">2.5/5</span></b></div>
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11. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35215955-and-fire-came-down" target="_blank">And Fire Came Down by Emma Viskic</a> - This is the second book of a series. I raved about the first one (<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25460514-resurrection-bay" target="_blank">Resurrection Bay</a>), and I will continue to read this series after this solid second effort. The protagonist is a deaf investigator and the author learned "Auslan" (Australian sign language) in order to understand her character more. His relationship with his brother and his on again/off again partner are bonus additions to the mystery/thriller stories. <b><span style="color: red;">4.25/5</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>I've shown you mine, now you show me yours............</i></span></b></div>
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<br />Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-23005620263523085092017-08-10T09:23:00.000+10:002017-08-10T09:23:16.234+10:00I'll show you my books, you show me yours... vol.31<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
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Here I am again with a late post. I intended to get this post ready on time, but my canines had another idea. They busted through our fence, got caught by the council rangers, taken to the pound. I posted bail, picked them up from doggie jail, and dealt with putting together a temporary fix until I could get the fence fixed properly. But, enough about my dog dramas, let's talk about books!<br />
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Again, much thanks to our hosts <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> & <a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a> for hosting this awesome book party.<br />
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<b><u>The books I've read since our last link-up:</u></b><br />
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1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28243032-we-are-okay" target="_blank"> We Are Okay by Nina LaCour</a> - I loved every single character in this poignant YA book. 4/5</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oyHz4FVjzjAE7TzsyOeWZCEMSuMJBIcxpmjMlAGNNo6XaotXFtHJuKPUgm5WrmqRXdku9kaZ9w6cECjFeCj3r8SVKx01P_uIoub5zr1YH3CRxq4CPwXTLRHpDi8_BPuSDlA0uYGsar5K/s1600/isolated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oyHz4FVjzjAE7TzsyOeWZCEMSuMJBIcxpmjMlAGNNo6XaotXFtHJuKPUgm5WrmqRXdku9kaZ9w6cECjFeCj3r8SVKx01P_uIoub5zr1YH3CRxq4CPwXTLRHpDi8_BPuSDlA0uYGsar5K/s320/isolated.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28452843-an-isolated-incident" target="_blank">An Isolated Incident by Emily Maguire</a> - <span><span> <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody _1n4g"><span><span>Reading the synopsis, I assumed this book was a thriller/mystery. Yes, there is a horrific murder. But, this story focuses on the aftermath, the pain, the grief, and the life-shattering experience felt by the closest loved one of a murder victim. The p</span></span><span><span><span>arallel story about a novice crime writer becoming invested in the victim's story was less compelling to me. </span><br /><span>The author dabbles in discussion of crimes against women and the inequality of language, viewpoints, and treatment of females, particularly in a small town. </span><span>Overall, it was a satisfying read. 3.5/5</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26245850-before-the-fall" target="_blank">Before the Fall by Noah Hawley</a> - At times, I almost gave up on this one, but t<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>here were parts of this book and one character that kept me interested enough to stick with it. Overall, I was disappointed. I skimmed paragraphs, and I got bored too many times to call this an enjoyable read. 2/5</span></span></span></div>
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28965131-behind-her-eyes" target="_blank">Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough</a> - <span><span> <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>Nope. Nope. Nope. I hated this book, and I rarely say that. I can't really say a whole lot without spoilers. Apparently, many readers have enjoyed it, so I don't want to spoil it for others potential enjoyment. But, it did not work for me. 1/5</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6514.The_Bell_Jar" target="_blank">The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>One of those books I've intended to read for years, but it took my book challenge to convince me to finally do it. So grateful I did. The madness and power of one's mind made this such a fascinating read. Warning: could be a trigger for suicidal ideations. 4/5</span></span></span></div>
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6. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7445.The_Glass_Castle" target="_blank">The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody _1n4g"><span><span>Again, this is another book that I've been meaning to read for years, and it took this challenge to encourage me to finally pick it up. I'm so glad I did. It is a memoir that could be described as "stranger than fiction". The author is able to share</span></span><span><span><span> so many layers to her life and upbringing by an intelligent, alcoholic father and an artistic, removed-from-reality mother. The experiences shared are full of poverty, neglect, hunger, and abuse. Yet, also described is a family's bond, their version of love for one another, and each's struggle for survival. An excellent read.</span></span></span></span></span><div class="fsm fwn fcg UFICommentActions">
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<span><span><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody _1n4g"><span><span>To touch on this being a "banned book"... it is banned because “it includes explicit language and references to child molestation, adolescent sexual exploits, and violence as it recounts the author’s experiences growing up with an alcoholic father and</span></span><span><span><span> a mother who suffered from mental illness.” </span><br /><span>Are the lives lived in this book beyond difficult? Yes. But, it is a reality for some. And, if we ban some children's reality, aren't we adding to the shame they already feel? I believe so. I support the notion "knowledge is power". When society becomes more knowledgeable about the strife of others, perhaps we can be more compassionate. 4/5</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Have you read any of these books? What did you think?</span></i></b></span></span></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-66509514053401187632017-07-29T20:46:00.001+10:002017-07-31T19:44:17.732+10:00The Fall Film Challenge 2017I've participated in every one of Jenn's Fall Film Challenges, but I've never finished. Jenn was the same with my book challenges, until the last one...she conquered it. So, now I'm feeling the heat to complete her challenge as well. <br />
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Don't know what I'm talking about? Check out <a href="http://www.smartassdirect.com/2017/07/the-fall-film-challenge.html" target="_blank">this link</a>.<br />
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Some of these were tough to choose. I'd find a movie that I'd want to see, but I'd have no idea what category it would work for. So, some of these may be a stretch... Updated: I need some help with one of the categories, so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0uFUENrSAzt66XEILy76ee7WOJ1ozaCx_R_ICJcUvJoxqOUNPKPi6ofyQmjaQfS1ALIdnYkE3aMKk6P5Qyki1b8q2DE4hI_wkYQbl-SxYYLIkGdnwP0nhLjhLSiUkeFOvAV748m-0kpr/s1600/fall+film+challenge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0uFUENrSAzt66XEILy76ee7WOJ1ozaCx_R_ICJcUvJoxqOUNPKPi6ofyQmjaQfS1ALIdnYkE3aMKk6P5Qyki1b8q2DE4hI_wkYQbl-SxYYLIkGdnwP0nhLjhLSiUkeFOvAV748m-0kpr/s640/fall+film+challenge.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>one. </b>starring anthony hopkins. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3501632/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Thor: Ragnarok</a></div>
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<b>two. </b>listed on <a href="http://blog.nathanbransford.com/2013/01/the-best-100-movies-challenge.html"><b><span style="color: #cccccc;">nathan bransford's best hundred movies challenge</span></b></a>. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0307901/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">25th Hour</a></div>
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<b>three. </b>about charity: an organization, an individual, a cause, an act... interpret this as you will. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1727388/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Way Way Back</a> - the guy at the water park tries to help out an awkward teen; that's somewhat of a charitable act, correct?</div>
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<b>four. </b>starring robert downey, jr. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0433383/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Good Night, and Good Luck</a> - I've pretty much seen every RDJ movie I want to see, but I'll give this one a shot.<br />
<b>five.</b> about envy: a character, a plot device... use your imagination - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0397535/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Memoirs of a Geisha</a></div>
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<b>six. </b>about faith. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1895587/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Spotlight</a></div>
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<b>seven. </b>about greed. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1860357/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Deepwater Horizon</a></div>
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<b>eight. </b>about hope. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3544112/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Sing Street</a></div>
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<b>nine. </b>starring jeremy irons. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0462335/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">High-Rise</a></div>
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<b>ten. </b>about justice. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4572514/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Patriots Day</a></div>
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<b>eleven. </b>starring kevin bacon. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1355683/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">Black Mass</a></div>
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<b>twelve. </b>about lust. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1212450/?ref_=nv_sr_2" target="_blank">Lawless</a></div>
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<b>thirteen. </b>starring ian mckellen. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0382625/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Da Vinci Code</a></div>
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<b>fourteen. </b>set in a castle. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1504320/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The King's Speech</a> - He's a king; he spends some time in a castle, right?</div>
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<b>fifteen. </b>about fortitude. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4196450/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Birth of a Nation</a></div>
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<b>sixteen. </b>about pride. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0352248/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">Cinderella Man</a></div>
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<b>seventeen. </b>starring alan rickman. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2057392/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Eye in the Sky</a></div>
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<b>eighteen.</b> released last year and <a href="http://www.slothsandmovies.com/movie-stuff.html"><b><span style="color: #cccccc;">reviewed on slothsandmovies.com</span></b></a>. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3263904/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Sully</a></div>
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<b>nineteen. </b>about temperance. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2870648/?ref_=fn_al_tt_2" target="_blank">Amy</a> - Watching a documentary about someone who died from alcoholism makes you want to abstain from drink, correct?<br />
<b>twenty.</b> about prudence. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0059742/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Sound of Music</a></div>
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<b>twenty-one. </b>starring val kilmer. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2479800/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Palo Alto</a></div>
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<b>twenty-two. </b>about wrath. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0455944/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Equalizer</a></div>
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<b>twenty-three. </b>set in an exotic locale. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097757/?ref_=nv_sr_2" target="_blank">The Little Mermaid</a></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">twenty-four. </span></b><span style="color: red;">about gluttony. - The two movies I thought about (Se7en and What's Eating Gilbert Grape?), well, I've seen those - any suggestions?</span></div>
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<b>twenty-five. </b>set in space. - <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2488496/?ref_=nv_sr_2" target="_blank">The Force Awakens</a></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Join the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/fallfilmchallenge/" target="_blank">facebook group</a> to join in the film fun!</span></b></i></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-91673010577908643162017-07-25T09:30:00.000+10:002017-07-25T09:30:01.638+10:005 ThingsI saw this post by <a href="http://heathershurrah.blogspot.com.au/2017/07/5-on-friday.html" target="_blank">Heather at Heather's Hurrah</a>, and I decided to <strike>steal</strike> borrow its structure to share things that have been going on with me since I've been mostly absent from the blog game. <br />
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Most of you know, I went home to Texas for a visit in late May. Here's <b><u>5 things I did while there</u></b>:</div>
<ol>
<li>ate a lot of food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9-hNS_cg311a0VMsayPuFSMQNhsLzougo7ohyphenhyphen41wrwuf4yuYoD26v_WtiV67diQCloslQQsrqEXm7172aRqUXQBttD6ZBmMIW8I9DTnaBq-57bcQ2ml1j9TuqDcpJ1z0oOJc4zBkgXQ1/s1600/tex+mex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9-hNS_cg311a0VMsayPuFSMQNhsLzougo7ohyphenhyphen41wrwuf4yuYoD26v_WtiV67diQCloslQQsrqEXm7172aRqUXQBttD6ZBmMIW8I9DTnaBq-57bcQ2ml1j9TuqDcpJ1z0oOJc4zBkgXQ1/s400/tex+mex.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<li>visited family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqeIyGsQvFrM5S8uDBlav7ni_ifSDI-0imPI_Hb51_PGORuYgVJhvaAdtgPJeEebQqrxaDRP8Oi8Li1H_UDQifky8rkNremvRVBLrKgGjSLdqWrRwGYM2-QUCVb83V0hyHsixGT7rDncux/s1600/cousins.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqeIyGsQvFrM5S8uDBlav7ni_ifSDI-0imPI_Hb51_PGORuYgVJhvaAdtgPJeEebQqrxaDRP8Oi8Li1H_UDQifky8rkNremvRVBLrKgGjSLdqWrRwGYM2-QUCVb83V0hyHsixGT7rDncux/s400/cousins.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<li>fed the family cows<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_vv8A8RNzTqIktBRX2CTzx7GfvWVAaSdfLetB0B5SCdYsAF9VqdG5jeelKX4tnpDx60neRrcPwgReEIBWpCzEVarQjHLu4SOuIprsRM_fGW3lNpC-bPbTR-XARkEbPVgfUOfUk3205Ho/s1600/cows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_vv8A8RNzTqIktBRX2CTzx7GfvWVAaSdfLetB0B5SCdYsAF9VqdG5jeelKX4tnpDx60neRrcPwgReEIBWpCzEVarQjHLu4SOuIprsRM_fGW3lNpC-bPbTR-XARkEbPVgfUOfUk3205Ho/s400/cows.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<li>shared some quiet with my stepmom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3bT74V8B6f4Qf_akZTurzFUE0Ca3leTOdB6rZCTNyrqT8u65HcehMtNbGI1l7GArv3uyNmy2WXt9NJLnbG2GpH7-lLQAzI4d3plsPy2CYQaKyJZi_2i6Bpp0-g5Gzlo428LHcklwlfwq/s1600/barb.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3bT74V8B6f4Qf_akZTurzFUE0Ca3leTOdB6rZCTNyrqT8u65HcehMtNbGI1l7GArv3uyNmy2WXt9NJLnbG2GpH7-lLQAzI4d3plsPy2CYQaKyJZi_2i6Bpp0-g5Gzlo428LHcklwlfwq/s400/barb.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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</li>
<li>saw niece 2 graduate high school as valedictorian<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ9tiQfatjCLTeOPaQjDuXwdy3MAOmjC7VcU8Q8bxw9u7V-GgfFvwMPQF1Auq2A54QQLqD2CZqo4NJTtpxfDn9GO2rPE2iDh81Ji3EH-InRtDTNL5-_sgLpclacRXEusLAWc6XeFDb_fE/s1600/nieces.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ9tiQfatjCLTeOPaQjDuXwdy3MAOmjC7VcU8Q8bxw9u7V-GgfFvwMPQF1Auq2A54QQLqD2CZqo4NJTtpxfDn9GO2rPE2iDh81Ji3EH-InRtDTNL5-_sgLpclacRXEusLAWc6XeFDb_fE/s400/nieces.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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</ol>
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In honor of my niece's graduation, my mom, my niece, my sis-in-law, and I shared a getaway in San Francisco. <b><u>5 things touristy things we did there</u></b>:<br />
<ol>
<li>rode a double decker bus for a bus tour around the city</li>
<li>visited Muir Woods</li>
<li>drove the world's most crooked street</li>
<li>rode a trolley car</li>
<li>had lunch at Fisherman's Wharf</li>
</ol>
Here's <b><u>5 pictures from that fun time:</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZ62pYxyfONR5qoB_Ao50fYwJAPBMlVBT3AafzP2td3VfCoNbI-L__lG4ZIm-Kb4fapCXvNwr2UJfgwHs5WxM-rrkkVXdVvmnz2w1NA1dmD_aKUSIT7lCddalzCB90Xw1PprmHrDiXjh-/s1600/sf2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZ62pYxyfONR5qoB_Ao50fYwJAPBMlVBT3AafzP2td3VfCoNbI-L__lG4ZIm-Kb4fapCXvNwr2UJfgwHs5WxM-rrkkVXdVvmnz2w1NA1dmD_aKUSIT7lCddalzCB90Xw1PprmHrDiXjh-/s400/sf2.JPG" width="400" /></b></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YBAQUAROdQzIYaNQ_IGizgZx3Q-bQIYnbopspRIzmQnQrHwhey7837Np3JZkpeGo2HsaNuu8lEm3X7l_8dKgO9vvC9F9G5-fDCGnveZuv2Gx0NunJ_sKBoyTH83g1Mu7zrYBkN0ha8bz/s1600/sf3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YBAQUAROdQzIYaNQ_IGizgZx3Q-bQIYnbopspRIzmQnQrHwhey7837Np3JZkpeGo2HsaNuu8lEm3X7l_8dKgO9vvC9F9G5-fDCGnveZuv2Gx0NunJ_sKBoyTH83g1Mu7zrYBkN0ha8bz/s400/sf3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjkz7S62srsFQ7uB2y5em53XKVq-3jNP-SyFfMynfc3Kh78NE1lN85VxiDTzpS5GqAgS7ax1lk0fU8xThUrLBkUVBZ4nkiehyphenhyphenik1TJaK-YluLTUzWYVGgeqPtOZ3arJgfgVImXT68rDqW8/s1600/sf4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjkz7S62srsFQ7uB2y5em53XKVq-3jNP-SyFfMynfc3Kh78NE1lN85VxiDTzpS5GqAgS7ax1lk0fU8xThUrLBkUVBZ4nkiehyphenhyphenik1TJaK-YluLTUzWYVGgeqPtOZ3arJgfgVImXT68rDqW8/s400/sf4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-D2me7jTYatvKLGpH-LfaQjxsHea_8cIxx8PwvKp4ePyhFVwUdYWsKAefPtRUWW8DVnGcJt-NQzFXGJjiaV-WqzNgyYiGn4l6RghrvJU1DmcByMF9sqNaldC7sYlWxjhfDZ07PykEw_x/s1600/sf5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-D2me7jTYatvKLGpH-LfaQjxsHea_8cIxx8PwvKp4ePyhFVwUdYWsKAefPtRUWW8DVnGcJt-NQzFXGJjiaV-WqzNgyYiGn4l6RghrvJU1DmcByMF9sqNaldC7sYlWxjhfDZ07PykEw_x/s400/sf5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AAAVkVmJ3g4QMYijL5UB7WFTY2xs8qHJ69v93BuZozEs9RJjAkUMy9Beaw8cpMIDXVg-njtljaekuquR6RUOY9sRWjgBey6-r1YffGxLdyqC5vFD9zsPPCZBkziLkKNectY1ynKejWqx/s1600/sf6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AAAVkVmJ3g4QMYijL5UB7WFTY2xs8qHJ69v93BuZozEs9RJjAkUMy9Beaw8cpMIDXVg-njtljaekuquR6RUOY9sRWjgBey6-r1YffGxLdyqC5vFD9zsPPCZBkziLkKNectY1ynKejWqx/s400/sf6.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<u></u><b></b><br />
<u><b>5 people I've been lucky enough to see:</b></u><br />
<ol>
<li>had a meal, a chat, and some laughs with these beauties, Rachel from <a href="http://anestingnomad.com/" target="_blank">A Nesting Nomad</a> and Kristen from <a href="http://seeyouinaporridge.com/" target="_blank">See You in a Porridge</a>:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-YCnMMAFu5Kqg7wU6JW29O9X424dvHVmBMcyo0FilUa08_WyKAxYG2kJWK9VqpN-JyywpqnWae-85qnPmAGO1Qwppg7VMFOWdINGtmqeAxeNzZW9f4BZUC_mpDGUY6MOK77uoDdjYa7x/s1600/blates.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-YCnMMAFu5Kqg7wU6JW29O9X424dvHVmBMcyo0FilUa08_WyKAxYG2kJWK9VqpN-JyywpqnWae-85qnPmAGO1Qwppg7VMFOWdINGtmqeAxeNzZW9f4BZUC_mpDGUY6MOK77uoDdjYa7x/s400/blates.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>shared a meal in Texas with this gal that I've known for 25+ years, jenn from <a href="http://www.smartassdirect.com/" target="_blank">quirky pickings</a>:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnj0KBaSusEeIm_eoJfRpCfP_roS2g99yVgwtjNsxEt6QXkBVFsoVL0BMCHp1_YkgX5VA2LjRDv54vJ7zgfKtJ7nD0A8GDTsTgyVs525nLFQBUu_wJV_xNsQ-QtsUufoqtw_ar3py50it/s1600/jenng.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnj0KBaSusEeIm_eoJfRpCfP_roS2g99yVgwtjNsxEt6QXkBVFsoVL0BMCHp1_YkgX5VA2LjRDv54vJ7zgfKtJ7nD0A8GDTsTgyVs525nLFQBUu_wJV_xNsQ-QtsUufoqtw_ar3py50it/s400/jenng.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>while in Cali, I got to see my stepsister, her lovely husband, future bambino, and fur baby:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
shared a girls' getaway in Sonoma, CA with two of my most favorite people in the world, college friends, Katy and Kari:</div>
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</li>
</ol>
<div>
Okay, that's six people, but they were all worth mentioning.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I absolutely adored Sonoma and would happily go back and spend time there again. Here's <u><b>5 reasons that I fell in love:</b></u></div>
<ol>
<li>wine tasting rooms</li>
<li>cute cottages with beautiful gardens</li>
<li>independent shops with shop cats</li>
<li>good food and near perfect weather</li>
<li>a Friday night farmer's market that seem to bring locals and tourists together</li>
</ol>
Remember when I had a pile of books that I was happy to give away to share with other readers? Well, I'm doing it again. I send it to you for free! The only catch is that I encourage you to share the love, pay it forward, and give it to another when you're finished with it. First come, first serve. <b><u>5 books up for grabs</u></b>:<br />
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<ol>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/285092.High_Fidelity?ac=1&from_search=true" target="_blank">High Fidelity by Nick Hornby</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25420269-lie-in-wait?from_search=true" target="_blank">Lie in Wait by Eric Rickstad</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23341259-violent-ends?from_search=true" target="_blank">Violent Ends edited by Shaun David Hutchinson</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27071490-homegoing?from_search=true" target="_blank">Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13547335-the-cleaner?from_search=true" target="_blank">The Cleaner by Paul Cleave</a></li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EORvUAzd-8s9XvRAWO2h3uwU1S5zgJTbqX7UwxqCGVL4U8JqMr8F6wLhU_cj0Wbdbb0jYdmFqy7EZRZH9Gtv48PvXqmsDpthEVzXRhy7dHQP4E5oBB_ywLKtIQv27xMwAXwPQErm3dW8/s1600/bookstack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EORvUAzd-8s9XvRAWO2h3uwU1S5zgJTbqX7UwxqCGVL4U8JqMr8F6wLhU_cj0Wbdbb0jYdmFqy7EZRZH9Gtv48PvXqmsDpthEVzXRhy7dHQP4E5oBB_ywLKtIQv27xMwAXwPQErm3dW8/s400/bookstack.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hold up, wait a minute. I've got more books to give. How convenient is it that I have 5 more on offer?! </div>
<ol>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28243032-we-are-okay" target="_blank">We Are Okay by Nina LaCour</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28452843-an-isolated-incident" target="_blank">An Isolated Incident by Emily Maguire</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18225175-we-need-new-names" target="_blank">We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23213831-summerlong" target="_blank">Summerlong by Dean Bakopoulos</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26114135-all-the-ugly-and-wonderful-things" target="_blank">All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood</a></li>
</ol>
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<br />
I've read <b>5 books</b> for <b>Book Challenge by Erin 7.0</b> (<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/205317-book-challenge-by-erin" target="_blank">goodreads group</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">facebook group</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/16213330-erin-gray?shelf=book-challenge-by-erin-7-0&utm_campaign=mybooksnav&utm_content=mybooks_cta&utm_medium=web&utm_source=homepage" target="_blank">my reading list</a>), and I have <b>5 more</b> to go to complete the first round of the challenge. These <u><b>5 books are next to be read: </b></u><br />
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<u><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZexT6UrwpofoYbW01aMHJpCJxGk_JA-EvbI8ZHuyatrPSYd7_E7XKbqufhTBeS3w9R1l3sGLpDNhMLg0uQiM7iMoPz89zgiKwaRo8Tb6xs3jSlaBMZSxZLDrbX0S9j4yf-6F1cpYGcGyi/s1600/bookstack1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZexT6UrwpofoYbW01aMHJpCJxGk_JA-EvbI8ZHuyatrPSYd7_E7XKbqufhTBeS3w9R1l3sGLpDNhMLg0uQiM7iMoPz89zgiKwaRo8Tb6xs3jSlaBMZSxZLDrbX0S9j4yf-6F1cpYGcGyi/s400/bookstack1.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></u></div>
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<br />
Speaking of my book challenge, I'm breaking away from "5 Things" to give a shout out to the reading rock star known as <a href="https://confuzzledom.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Bev from Confuzzledom</a>. She's the first to complete our challenge this time around. Way to go, Bev!<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Now, tell me 5 things going on with you!</span></b></i></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-1263757045651355982017-07-22T20:17:00.000+10:002017-07-22T20:17:17.805+10:00HeavyTeens, adults; work colleagues, school friends; the successful, the unsuccessful; the unknown, the revered; Oscar & Grammy winners. <br />
<br />
Suicide. It impacts and reaches into the lives of so many. We continue to talk about it, but we continue to see lives extinguished that are experiencing turmoil and turbulence.<br />
<br />
It's Saturday night. I'm looking at articles, watching youtube videos, and reading lyrics because of the death of Linkin Park's Chester Bennington. <br />
<br />
Lyrics like these:<br />
<br />
<i>Crawling in my skin<br /> These wounds they will not heal<br /> Fear is how I fall<br /> Confusing what is real</i><br />
from 2000's "Crawling"<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I wanna heal, I wanna feel what I thought was never real<br /> I wanna let go of the pain I've felt so long<br /> (Erase all the pain 'til it's gone)<br /> I wanna heal, I wanna feel like I'm close to something real<br /> I wanna find something I've wanted all along<br /> Somewhere I belong</i><br /><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>from 2003's "Somewhere I Belong"<br />
<br />
<i>Take this all away<br /> I'm suffocating<br /> Tell me what the fuck is wrong<br /> With me</i><br /><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>from 2007's "Given Up"<br />
<br />
<i>Now in my remains<br /> Are promises that never came<br /> Set the silence free<br /> To wash away the worst of me</i><br /><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>from 2012's "In My Remains"<br />
<br />
<i>I wanna fall wide awake<br /> Watch the ground giving way now<br /> You tell me it's alright<br /> Tell me I'm forgiven, tonight<br /> But nobody can save me now<br /> I'm holding up a light<br /> I'm chasing up the darkness inside<br /> 'Cause nobody can save me</i><br /><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>from 2017's "Nobody Can Save Me"<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I'm holding on<br /> Why is everything so heavy?<br /> Holding on<br /> To so much more than I can carry<br /> I keep dragging around what's bringing me down<br /> If I just let go, I'd be set free<br /> Holding on<br /> Why is everything so heavy?</i><br /><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>from 2017's "Heavy"<br />
<br />
Did I know Chester Bennington? No. But, I've known pain, confusion, darkness, depression. Do I know his journey? No. All of our journeys are unique. But, when I read that someone's journey has led to the outcome of Chester's, I ache. And, I contemplate my own journey.<br />
<br />
Personally, I've used Lifeline before. I've called that number when I didn't know who to call. I have family and loved ones who would want to tell me that I'm special, worthwhile, valued...but there have been dark times in my life when I was lost enough I didn't want to turn to them. So, I called Lifeline, and I'm grateful that I did. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/" target="_blank">Lifeline</a> Australia 24/7 hotline: 13 11 14<br />
<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" target="_blank">National Suicide Prevention Lifeline</a> USA 24/7: 1 800 273 8255<br />
<br />
This link may be one of the most helpful things I've ever seen on Wikipedia: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines" target="_blank">List of suicide crisis lines by country</a><br />
<br />
Rest in Peace, Chester<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc3lB-71du85sbSISXZC3E9O4TvwzJv7KaP4j-7ynVUXEnmKJ1acqZVABKuzuWBmYCz5vvkT7enc9LV49v6vpWD0kV8mXy7SsbM4MjxBzxzuXg2wMuHLrgi3ig3EVMDRZpGcxqu8oKzxS6/s1600/chester.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc3lB-71du85sbSISXZC3E9O4TvwzJv7KaP4j-7ynVUXEnmKJ1acqZVABKuzuWBmYCz5vvkT7enc9LV49v6vpWD0kV8mXy7SsbM4MjxBzxzuXg2wMuHLrgi3ig3EVMDRZpGcxqu8oKzxS6/s640/chester.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from <a href="https://twitter.com/linkinpark/status/888169188384100354" target="_blank">Linkin Park's twitter</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-28455889276418296912017-07-12T18:39:00.000+10:002017-07-12T18:39:10.587+10:00I'll show you my books...you show me yours...vol.30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
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Yep. I'm late to the party. Yep, I didn't participate as much as I'd like in the previous link-up. But, I need to forgive myself instead of beat myself up over that fact. I probably won't interact as much as I'd like this go-around either, but why should I allow that to stop me from talking about one of my favorite topics to talk about - books!? Plus, I know our hosts <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> & <a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a> wouldn't want me to be hard on myself or skip this link-up because I may not be reading and posting as often as I used to. I read some really great books this month, and I really shouldn't deprive you from me sharing them.<br />
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What I've read since the last link up:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20dJ27vck576_74_8KU5sdW1OzNxxeRGOZhtuewJqMuXXUajX9YD3G72-hBEslOou-9CiUVXYYvjKKpDK4WO1SDgrkz4vKTt_kSALvHHPJy6boH1LKoNJuAHkAMCRBLDUetqQwscgN0bX/s1600/book+shopper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20dJ27vck576_74_8KU5sdW1OzNxxeRGOZhtuewJqMuXXUajX9YD3G72-hBEslOou-9CiUVXYYvjKKpDK4WO1SDgrkz4vKTt_kSALvHHPJy6boH1LKoNJuAHkAMCRBLDUetqQwscgN0bX/s400/book+shopper.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26114135-all-the-ugly-and-wonderful-things" target="_blank">All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood</a> - I picked up this book at the campus bookstore when we visited Stanford. I'd heard many things prior to reading it, yet I didn't really know what to expect. It was written really, really well. The story and the characters' experiences are disturbing, intense, thought-provoking, and emotional. It deserves all the attention it has received. 5/5<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoek3wfQHLDoiGXn9LEv2tGJG6yqy_OKp6EK0h3NPlOJ_uY_JXwGJtLJq81Hygn0oi1yHEPZ_QjvOKH8rzmFaZYNsTG3RmQ1vDxS3l5lk-Gsm8aAICgZ7XPYW65rcRlPUpAFsJ7m_n1Iiq/s1600/violent+ends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoek3wfQHLDoiGXn9LEv2tGJG6yqy_OKp6EK0h3NPlOJ_uY_JXwGJtLJq81Hygn0oi1yHEPZ_QjvOKH8rzmFaZYNsTG3RmQ1vDxS3l5lk-Gsm8aAICgZ7XPYW65rcRlPUpAFsJ7m_n1Iiq/s320/violent+ends.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23341259-violent-ends" target="_blank">Violent Ends edited by Shaun David Hutchison</a> - Another book I purchased in America. Another book that I didn't know what to expect. All I knew is it was about a school shooting, and Jana highly recommended it. I didn't realize that it read like short stories, and each chapter was written by a different author, yet they all examined the same school shooting in a different perspective. Super different and interesting way to read about a topic that I've read about before. 4/5<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23213831-summerlong" target="_blank">Summerlong by Dean Bakopoulus</a> - It is not uncommon for me to read a book in which I despise all the characters but love the book. Unfortunately, that didn't happen this time. My frustration and annoyance at almost every single character in this book overpowered my enjoyment factor. Ruth saved it for me. She is a badass. 2.5/5<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13547335-the-cleaner" target="_blank">The Cleaner by Paul Cleave</a> - I love reading a thriller author that is new to me whose book I picked up at a secondhand bookstore just because. I will definitely read more from this author. There are some messed up scenes and fucked up characters in this book. 4/5</div>
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3153910-the-art-of-racing-in-the-rain" target="_blank">The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein</a> - One of the reasons that I am a self-professed book challenge junkie is that I am encouraged to read books that I've been intending to read but haven't made time for. When Bev picked the category for my challenge to "read a book with a non-human main character", I knew that I wanted to read this one. Finally. And, I am thankful I did. My emotions were all over the place, and I cried big, ugly, sloppy tears. 4.5/5 </div>
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SPOILER ALERT! PLEASE MOVE ALONG IF YOU DON'T WANT TO KNOW ABOUT ONE ASPECT OF THIS BOOK...okay, I knew the book would be about a dog and its full life and that the dog would most likely die. BUT, for someone who had a loved one (my stepmother who entered my life when I was 15 and left it when I was 30) die after a heart-breaking battle with brain cancer, well, I wasn't expecting that part of the storyline, so I was crying big, ugly, sloppy tears a whole helluva a lot while reading this one. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeRgmTbDUULjoChyphenhyphen8ewGJIG1STjilr8we7uPG8reRo5Coc-tPVsA0aRW8AumSHonvOou855nFYOwUT5Zvto6uy-GPmLXbe8GAuad4yxr_UTzACOPUJfPn6QeFuPmCFEYBqz4mbdPaiFrX/s1600/homegoing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="318" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeRgmTbDUULjoChyphenhyphen8ewGJIG1STjilr8we7uPG8reRo5Coc-tPVsA0aRW8AumSHonvOou855nFYOwUT5Zvto6uy-GPmLXbe8GAuad4yxr_UTzACOPUJfPn6QeFuPmCFEYBqz4mbdPaiFrX/s320/homegoing.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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6. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27071490-homegoing" target="_blank">Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi</a> - What an impressive debut book from a young author! <span>This book tells the stories of generations from a family tree whose origins began in 18th century Ghana. It was fascinating and heart-breaking, devastating and beautiful. The Sociology major in me especially enjoyed the final chapter. 4.5/5</span></div>
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<i><b>Let me know if you decide to add any of these to your "to read" list, or if you've read them before, what did you think?</b></i></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-16272442052591935442017-07-12T11:08:00.000+10:002017-07-12T11:09:17.876+10:00My dilemmaHowdy folks, remember me? <br />
<br />
So, I decided to take a mini hiatus while I took a little vacay back to America. That mini hiatus has lasted much longer than planned. Here's the dilemma.....<br />
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Time, and more specifically,<i><b> prioritizing my time.</b></i><br />
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No, this is not a dilemma exclusive to me. You see, at my previous job, I was able to write blogs, read blogs, comment on blogs, read emails, answer emails, and interact with all of you during my work day. (Hmmm...could this be a reason the business failed? Focusing on blog stuff instead of work stuff? We'll leave that for another time.) Now, at my current position, there is no time whatsoever for any of that activity. And, I'm working longer hours than I expected. So, prioritizing my time took a big shift.<br />
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Also, previously, I worked and commuted with my guy. Now, I don't. Now, after work, I want to devote a little time to him and to us.<br />
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By the time I get home from work, do household stuff, eat dinner, have some family time, do a little reading (which, by the way, had changed too because my daily commute is significantly less)...and currently, I devote some time daily to my book challenge admin duties (which I love and will not give up), then my "me" time is up. <br />
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You see, what I enjoy most from my blogging experience is the interaction. I've established some relationships with some of you because I've gotten to know you, we shared some genuine conversations, I took the time to read what you were putting out there, and you reciprocated. I feel like I can't, or I don't, or I haven't found the ability to carve out the time I want to give for that kind of interaction. And, I don't want to half ass it. <b><i> This</i></b> is my dilemma.<br />
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Here's a glaring example of this ~ you all know I love Show Us Your Books day. Last month, I posted, but I only read Jana and Steph's posts. I don't think I answered any comments, or if I did they were quick responses that lacked any depth and didn't stick with me. I did not feel good about this. Then, this month's SUYB happens, and <i><b>I didn't even know it was coming</b></i>. <br />
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I've caught myself grabbing the laptop and preparing a post. But, I don't want to post if I can't adequately interact. I don't want to post if I can't read yours and again, adequately interact. <br />
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I mentioned before that I love my book challenge and won't give it up. That is true. It takes a bit of time, but I find the time to do it. So, why haven't I done this with blogging? I love blogging too. I value the friendships and relationships that have grown from this space. Again, I have a dilemma, and I'm trying to work it out. <br />
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I am open to any thoughts, opinions, advice, and suggestions. Again, I value you guys that have found your way to my space and care enough to read along and interact with me. <br />
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Until I get this all figured out and learn to prioritize my time in a way that works, I sincerely hope life is treating you well. Each and every one of you.<br />
<br />Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-66434538988474806912017-06-13T14:43:00.000+10:002017-06-13T14:43:02.612+10:00I show you my books, you show me yours...vol.29<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
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It's <span style="color: red;">Show Us Your Books Day</span>! I'm still on a blog mini-hiatus, but I can't miss my favorite day in blogging month. The day hosted by <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> & <a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>, the day that makes my <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/16213330-erin-gray" target="_blank">goodreads</a> "to read" list grow, and the day I interact with a blogging community of readers. I love this day (or week because it sometimes takes me a week to read all the links) of the month.<br />
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What I've read since last link-up:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw48fhiIAVjglKCJ9wJ_cz9RHw-Ss8pnMcUi_8egDcZhdFZk7JAfNKByDmPBujDu-6URIslNcJ_law71Elf7LzatHc8QI9xdRyaRc14mlSbpkjPbdTWgN81jS4VLz8ZpAaSUCkQJuC4jqN/s1600/bull+mountain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw48fhiIAVjglKCJ9wJ_cz9RHw-Ss8pnMcUi_8egDcZhdFZk7JAfNKByDmPBujDu-6URIslNcJ_law71Elf7LzatHc8QI9xdRyaRc14mlSbpkjPbdTWgN81jS4VLz8ZpAaSUCkQJuC4jqN/s320/bull+mountain.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23398919-bull-mountain" target="_blank">Bull Mountain by Brian Panowich</a> - </div>
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<span id="freeTextContainerreview1608895042">So, so good. An interesting web of characters tangled in family dynamics, drugs, violence, crime, and mayhem. I was engrossed with the story from beginning to end. Side note: I enjoyed that the backwoods Southern father was called "deddy" because that's exactly how it's pronounced, and it read perfectly in my head. 4.5/5</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8jtYcQ9ODSAFFQvjS8daBQ1rQ6ZokbC3dmusF9eZu0Yr4YU2pIMx6BbPKrcJb91UfE47JajMsEEZu9X9rEthfH-4j8ZFLcUprF6kWZ4fTQTU1V9ucNFbaovCrRP3COb2uDQIEgP67VRc/s1600/love+letters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8jtYcQ9ODSAFFQvjS8daBQ1rQ6ZokbC3dmusF9eZu0Yr4YU2pIMx6BbPKrcJb91UfE47JajMsEEZu9X9rEthfH-4j8ZFLcUprF6kWZ4fTQTU1V9ucNFbaovCrRP3COb2uDQIEgP67VRc/s320/love+letters.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18140047-love-letters-to-the-dead" target="_blank">Love Letters to the Dead by Ava Dellaira</a> - <br />
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<span class="readable reviewText"><span id="freeTextContainerreview1096616290">For YA, I loved everything about this book. Was it a perfect book? No, but I loved its imperfections. Were there some difficult scenes to read? Yes, several, but I thought it was done so well from the voice of a teenage girl. 4.5/5</span></span></div>
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16131224-downfall" target="_blank">Downfall by Jeff Abbott</a> - </div>
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I read the 2 previous books in this series and remember gobbling them up. This one was just alright. As Steph says, "it passed the time just fine". 3/5</div>
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31379212-golden-prey" target="_blank">Golden Prey by John Sandford</a> - </div>
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This is the 27th book in the Lucas Davenport series. I have read it since 1991. I continue to be amazed that this author keeps every book interesting and unique enough to keep me coming back for more. 4/5</div>
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31449227-ramona-blue" target="_blank">Ramona Blue by Julie Murphy</a> - </div>
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I liked this book, but I didn't love it. I appreciated the topics that she was trying to tackle, but I was just never as invested in the characters as I wish I was. 3/5</div>
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6. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25420269-lie-in-wait" target="_blank">Lie in Wait by Eric Rickstad</a> - </div>
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The current goodreads rating for this mystery/thriller is 3.81. That's a pretty adequate overall rating for it, in my opinion although, I wish a character or two had been further developed. </div>
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Now, it's my time to pimp my book challenge. It's a pretty fantastic place for booklovers, if I do say so myself. Check it out with the following links:</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">Our facebook group</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/205317-book-challenge-by-erin" target="_blank">Our goodreads group</a></div>
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<a href="http://texerin-in-sydneyland.blogspot.com.au/2017/06/book-challenge-by-erin-70.html" target="_blank">My blog post</a></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I've shown you mine, you show me yours...</span></b></i></div>
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Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-9240460054692931262017-06-01T14:03:00.000+10:002017-06-01T14:03:33.355+10:00Book Challenge by Erin 7.0<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, I am still on my mini blog hiatus, but you didn't think I'd forget my book challenge post, did you?</div>
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Hi, my name is Erin, and I like books. I like to talk about books. I'm a sucker for book challenges. I started my own challenge a couple of years ago hosting it through this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">facebook group page</a>. My thought was this: if I host it through facebook, that's another venue to talk about books with my fellow readers. I am already in a few challenges that link back to blogs, but not facebook. I'm pretty happy and proud of the group I've got happening on facebook. It's so fun to see a collection of readers that are my high school friends, friends of friends, friends around the globe, all coming together for a mutual love of books. If you're a reader, please join us. Even just join the group to follow along with the fun. Or jump in and rock the challenge!</div>
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If you aren't a facebooker, that's okay too. I have some that participate through their blogs and others through goodreads. Participation is encouraged as much or as little as you choose. We now have a <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/205317-book-challenge-by-erin" target="_blank">goodreads group</a> too. I must admit, I'm not nearly as active in that group and I am the facebook one. It started to become double the work for me, so I just stuck to my original medium. Just trying to create enough options for those who want to participate can in the easiest option for them to do so.<br />
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I attempt to be a <span style="color: red;">stress-free, no-pressure</span> kind of host. This is about loving books, supporting readers, and encouragement for all who express an interest.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Book Challenge by
Erin 7.0 - General Rules</u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">First and foremost, have fun.
Don't stress. No one is being judged, graded, or penalized. Even if you finish
only one book the entire challenge, if you enjoy it and it's an accomplishment
for you, then that's awesome.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The challenge will run from </span><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">JULY
1, 2017 to OCTOBER 31, 2017</span></u><span style="font-family: inherit;">. No books that are started before 12 a.m. on
July 1 or finished after 11:59 p.m. on October 31 will count.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(We live in different time zones – follow
this according to your own time zone.)</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Each book must be at least 200
pages long. </span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Audio books are fine too.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A book can only be used for one
category, and each category can only be completed once. If you want to switch
the category of a book, or change the book you originally chose, no
worries.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can read your books in any
order you choose.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rereads can be used only
once.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If a book you love fits into a
category, go ahead and visit it again.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read it in its entirety.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">But,
only do this once for the challenge.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There will be a photo album for
each category with links to books chosen.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please comment on the photo for each of your books when you finish
reading them.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">A comment can include a
review, a rating, a recommendation…other readers want to hear what you thought
of your choice.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(if you need help with
this, let me know…or there is a file attached to our group explaining what to
do.)</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There will be 10 book
categories with a possibility of earning 200 points. </span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">That’s 10 books in four months.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">For some of you, this will be a BIG
challenge; for others it will be easy peasy.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s all for fun, remember!</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Book categories will be posted June
1st to give you time to gather books in preparation.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After the categories are
posted, please post a preliminary list with books of your choice according to
their categories on the facebook group page by June 15</span><sup><span style="font-family: inherit;">th</span></sup><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (if
possible).</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you need help with a
particular category or want a book suggestion, we as a community of reading
enthusiasts can help each other.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(Late
entries will still be accepted.)</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The first three people who
finish the challenge will be invited to contribute a category for the next
challenge. The following will get a small prize from me (1</span><sup><span style="font-family: inherit;">st</span></sup><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to
complete 1st round; 1</span><sup><span style="font-family: inherit;">st</span></sup><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to complete both rounds; most points
accumulated; and WILD CARD random draw – all who finish the 10 book challenge
will qualify as an entry!)</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plus, everyone
who completes the challenge will gets all sorts of recognition and support!</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 13px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lastly, have fun.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don't stress. No one is being judged, graded,
or penalized. Even if you finish only one book the entire challenge, if you
enjoy it and it's an accomplishment for you, then that's awesome.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wait, I’ve read that somewhere before…</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Good luck!</span></span></div>
<u><br /></u>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "biondi"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><u>Book Challenge by
Erin 7.0 - Categories</u></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Freebie – Read a book that is at least 200
pages</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">10 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that starts with the letter “B”</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">10 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that has a (mostly) yellow cover</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">15 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that has a picture of an animal
on the cover (submitted by Mattie)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">20 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that was published in 2017
(submitted by Olya)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">20 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book with a compass or cardinal
direction in the title (submitted by Mary)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">25 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The ALA’s “Banned Books Week” occurs while
our challenge is happening.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book from
this list of the most commonly banned books in America: </span></span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_most_commonly_challenged_books_in_the_United_States"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_most_commonly_challenged_books_in_the_United_States</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
(submitted by Christina)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">30 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a fictional book about mental illness
(submitted by Jamie); several helpful links: </span></span><a href="http://bookriot.com/2016/05/23/100-best-books-about-mental-illness/"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">http://bookriot.com/2016/05/23/100-best-books-about-mental-illness/</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">;
</span></span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mental_illness_in_fiction"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mental_illness_in_fiction</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">;
</span></span><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/mental-illness-fiction"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/mental-illness-fiction</span></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">30 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book with a non-human main character;
i.e. animals, elves, gods, robots, merpeople, etc. (submitted by Bev); helpful
links: </span></span><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/non-human-characters"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/non-human-characters</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">;
</span></span><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/99906.Books_with_Nonhuman_Characters"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/99906.Books_with_Nonhuman_Characters</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">;
</span></span><a href="http://forreadingaddicts.co.uk/polls-and-discussion/the-33-best-books-with-a-non-human-protagonist/3704"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">http://forreadingaddicts.co.uk/polls-and-discussion/the-33-best-books-with-a-non-human-protagonist/3704</span></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 13px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">35 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book a Disney movie was based on OR a
book based on a Disney movie (submitted by Kirsten); Don’t forget to check that
the book is at least 200 pages: </span></span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Category:Novels_first_published_in_serial_form&pageuntil=Dune+Messiah#mw-pages"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Category:Novels_first_published_in_serial_form&pageuntil=Dune+Messiah#mw-pages</span></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">;
</span><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/11716.Books_Turned_Into_Disney_Movies"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/11716.Books_Turned_Into_Disney_Movies</span></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px 24px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "berlin sans fb demi" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><i>If you are stuck on any of these categories,
ask for help or recommendations!</i></b></span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><i>GOOD
LUCK!</i></b></span></span></div>
<br />
Anddddd...my preliminary list (<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/16213330-erin-gray?shelf=bookchallengebyerin7&utm_campaign=mybooksnav&utm_content=mybooks_cta&utm_medium=web&utm_source=homepage" target="_blank">on goodreads</a>):<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> 5 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Freebie – Read a book that is at least 200 pages: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28243032-we-are-okay" target="_blank">We Are Okay by Nina LaCour</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">10 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that starts with the letter “B”: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26245850-before-the-fall" target="_blank">Before the Fall by Noah Hawley</a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">10 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that has a (mostly) yellow cover: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27071490-homegoing" target="_blank">Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi</a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">15 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that has a picture of an animal on the cover: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7039.Tears_of_the_Giraffe" target="_blank">Tears of the Giraffe by Alexander McCall Smith</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">20 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book that was published in 2017: <span id="goog_832108049"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/">Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough<span id="goog_832108050"></span></a></span></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">20 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book with a compass or cardinal direction in the title (submitted by Mary): <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43081.Marching_Powder" target="_blank">Marching Powder: A True Story of Friendship, Cocaine, and South America's Strangest Jail by Rusty Young and Thomas McFadden</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">25 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The ALA’s “Banned Books Week” occurs while our challenge is happening.</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book from the list of the most commonly banned books in America: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7445.The_Glass_Castle" target="_blank">The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">30 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a fictional book about mental illness: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6514.The_Bell_Jar" target="_blank">The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">30 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book with a non-human main character; i.e. animals, elves, gods, robots, merpeople, etc.: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3153910-the-art-of-racing-in-the-rain" target="_blank">The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">·</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">35 points:</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read a book a Disney movie was based on OR a book based on a Disney movie: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1000751.Pollyanna" target="_blank">Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter</a></span></span></div>
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<u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Will you join us? What do you think of my choices?</span></i></b> </div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-32273405032455440842017-05-16T20:23:00.000+10:002017-05-16T20:23:03.416+10:00Never fear...I shall return...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This here blog and my blogger buddies have not gotten the attention they deserve in the last couple of weeks. I'm heading to Texas at the end of this week, and I'm working long hours to prep before I go. The blog is going to take a backseat until I return.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">Book Challenge by Erin</a> folks, don't you worry...I've already got my post scheduled to go live with the categories for BCBE 7.0 on June 1st. <br />
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During this mini blog hiatus, I'll be most active on instagram, probably posting pics of Texas food and family photos. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/texerin/" target="_blank">Follow me there</a> (if you don't already.)<br />
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I will miss y'all. Actually, I miss my interaction with you already. You are a great source of support, positivity, inspiration, humor, and knowledge. Keep doing you, and I will catch up with you when I return.<br />
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Cheers,<br />
ErinErin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-15028595911794654422017-05-11T14:30:00.000+10:002017-05-11T17:54:51.332+10:00Swappin' Countries: Going HomeFor anyone new around these parts, <a href="http://texerin-in-sydneyland.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Erin</a> is an American who lives in Australia, and <a href="http://www.seeyouinaporridge.com/" target="_blank">Kristen</a> is an Australian who lives in America. The two of us regularly talk about our experiences and lives swapping countries. <br>
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Well, not sure if "regularly" is the correct word because we both admit to being pretty inconsistent, but we have the best intentions to keep this series going. (Is it a series if we've only had <a href="http://texerin-in-sydneyland.blogspot.com.au/search/label/swappin%20countries" target="_blank">one post</a> and <a href="http://www.anestingnomad.com/2017/04/expat-stories-2-switcheroos-australia-america.html/" target="_blank">one guest post</a>?)<br>
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Both of us are traveling to our original homes in the next couple of months, so we thought we'd share our thoughts, feelings, and anticipations about that visit.<br>
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<b><i>Erin's story:</i></b> It's been exactly two years since I've last been to Texas. I am suffering from some serious homesickness, I ain't gonna lie about that. Two years is a long time to go without a hug from my daddy, a laugh with my mama (in person), and the taste of chile con queso in my belly. <br>
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Two years ago, my trip was planned around niece #1's high school graduation and a cousin's college graduation. This year, my trip is planned around niece #2's high school graduation. I will also get to spend Memorial Day in the good ol' U.S. of A. As a bonus, my mom, my niece, my sister-in-law and I are having a quick San Francisco getaway together. And, as a further bonus, three of my bestest girlfriends are meeting me in Northern Cali after the relatives go back to Texas, and I'll complete my trip with a couple of days in the Sonoma Valley with my girls. <br>
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When I go home, there is no time for rest and relaxation. I am constantly on the go, doing all the things and seeing all the people and eating all the food. I love Texas food. I may have an unhealthy relationship with it, but seriously, when I'm home, I gorge on alllll those things that I miss when I'm in Australia.<br>
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Neither of my parents live in Houston anymore. I split my time between Huntsville (with my dad and stepmom) and Tyler (with my mom and her guy), and I squeeze in a little College Station time where my brother and his family lives.<br>
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Often, I get overwhelmed because I never get to see all the people I want to see or do all the things I want to do. I have to prioritize, and in this situation, as cliché as it sounds, it's family first for me. <br>
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So, this might sound bad, but I also see the folks who are willing to be flexible and put effort in our relationship. There are folks that I was really close to when I lived in Texas, yet I never hear from them anymore. That's fine. Our lives have gone in different directions. So, I see the folks that are currently a part of my life, and not the ones that were once upon a time.<br>
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There is always some feelings of guilt. I feel guilty by the pain in my father's voice, and the tears in my mother's eyes. They support my happiness here, but we miss seeing once another more frequently, and I'd be lying if I didn't say I feel guilty about it.<br>
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And, when I visit Texas without my guy, I miss him. Three weeks without your partner in life is a significant amount of time to be apart. But, it's something we knew would be a part of our relationship with the reality of me living on the other side of the planet of so many of my loved ones. <br>
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The most difficult part of the trip? Saying goodbye. Especially when I don't have an exact plan of when I'll be there next. So, so tough. I get on that plane. I sigh. I reflect. I may cry. But, I head back to my second home where my husband, stepkids, fur babies, and life awaits. <br>
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I feel fortunate to call two places home. To have people that love and value me. To love and value others. Through the hardships, the feeling of gratitude for that love and appreciation outweighs all.<br>
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<b><i>Kristen's story:</i></b> It has been almost 3 years <a href="http://www.seeyouinaporridge.com/2014/07/my-australia.html">since I last went home</a>, and almost 5 and a half years since I left for good (though, I didn't know that at the time). <br>
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Like Erin, I am suffering from some pretty awful homesickness as well. I am very excited that I will be back in my home country, eating all the food I miss, hearing people talk like me, seeing words I recognise, driving on the side of the road I learned to drive on... all those things. But I am obviously most excited about seeing my family, especially my mum.<br>
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My mum and I have always been extremely close and living on the other side of the world has been so hard. Sometimes I wish it were different, but you can't help who you love. Mum loves America and has visited a few times since I moved here (only once to Louisville though) and her last trip was September 2016. I met up with her and a friend in LA & Vegas and we had a ball (and of course, fought a ton). The next plans were for KC and I to come home in June 2017, and then mum wanted to go to Graceland sometime in 2018.<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my mum loves Toby Keith</td></tr>
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We booked our flights for this June back in December. December 30th to be exact. As most of you know, my mum had a stroke early January. If we hadn't just booked our flights, this trip may not be happening. I probably would have hopped on a flight home immediately. I almost did, several times, but she was surrounded by family and I was able to talk to her immediately after the stroke and she told me not to come. Things got a bit worse before they got better, but she is doing really well. She is not home yet, and she is not back at work.<br>
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Before my mum's stroke, we had lots of plans - I wanted to take KC to see the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley. I wanted to do more touristy stuff because I didn't know when I would be back. I thought about doing another mini trip, like to Uluru or something. Busy busy busy, doing all the things and seeing all the people. Like Erin, I had friends that I was 'so close' with before I left, but they don't put any time and effort into the friendship when I am gone, so unfortunately when I am home, I don't make an effort to see them - time is far too precious for that. Moving across the world sure shows you who your people are.<br>
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Now, after my mum's stroke, we probably aren't going to go to the Blue Mountains or the Hunter Valley. We won't go to Uluru. We will probably spend most of our time at home. We had already booked New Zealand before my mum's stroke, and I don't want to waste any of the time I have with her. We will be in Australia for 2 weeks, and we are spending a few days in Melbourne like last time.<br>
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I am excited. I can't wait to see my mum, my nana, my cousins, uncles and aunties. I can't wait to see Pacey, my beautiful golden retriever. My cat Agatha couldn't give two shits about me and wouldn't come near me last time, which is definitely more than a little heartbreaking. My little brother is somewhere I'm not going to be able to visit him more than once and that also breaks my heart.<br>
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Saying goodbye is stupid hard. Flying home is crazy expensive, KC and I want to start a family soon and won't be able to travel as often. The thought of more long flights makes the butterflies in my stomach go crazy. My mum probably won't be able to travel for quite some time. The unknown, the I don't know when I will be back, when I will see my mum again, it's so freaking hard. I feel so guilty that I am not there. That my dog, Pacey, gets SO excited when she sees me (will she remember me this time?), but my cat Agatha could not care less. They are both getting older, and I am not there for them. Yes, I realise they are animals, but I'm not there for my mum, little brother or nana either.<br>
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Like Erin, I do feel fortunate that I can call two places home and that I have people who love me enough to miss me, and I them. Sometimes I have to work a little harder at my appreciation and not turn into a sulky child, but at the end of it all, there's no real solution. I am who I am because of where I've come from and where I am today. My heart - as corny as it sounds - is forever split between the two places. Instead of sulking about it, I will appreciate the visits home more than I ever appreciated actually living there.<br>
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As I'm sure you can tell, being an expat going home is all sorts of emotional. But I'm sure I speak for both of us when I say excitement about going home and doing all the things definitely outweighs all the not so great feelings. And of course, I am making Erin see me when I am in Sydney, and who wouldn't be excited about that?
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-64925989623513841502017-05-09T15:53:00.000+10:002017-05-09T15:53:06.447+10:00I show you my books, you show me yours... vol.28<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's <span style="color: red;">Show Us Your Books Day</span>! The day hosted by <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> & <a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>, the day that makes my <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/16213330-erin-gray" target="_blank">goodreads</a> "to read" list grow, and the day I interact with a blogging community of readers. I love this day (or week because it sometimes takes me a week to read all the links) of the month.<br />
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<b><i><u>What I've read since last link-up:</u></i></b><br />
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1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18498558-bird-box" target="_blank">Bird Box by Josh Malerman</a> - <span id="freeTextContainerreview1224219260">What did I just read? I have no idea, nor do I know how I feel about it. Did I like it? Did it annoy me? Do I feel like I have more questions than answers? This was a step out of my usual reading comfort zone, and I'm glad I read it, but I don't know if I liked it. 3/5</span></div>
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3867.The_History_of_Love" target="_blank">The History of Love by Nicole Krauss</a> - I really, really wanted to love this book, but I spent too much time confused by the connections of some of the characters to say I loved the overall reading experience. When the connections were all revealed, I still felt confused about a couple of things. The premise was lovely, as were Alma and Leo. I could've done without a couple of the support cast. 3/5</div>
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29464616-we-ate-the-road-like-vultures" target="_blank">We Ate the Road Like Vultures by Lynnette Lounsbury</a> - Such a ridiculous and glorious book. I gobbled it up. This book is an example why I enjoy participating in the <a href="http://bookloverbookreviews.com/reading-challenges/aussie-author-challenge-2017" target="_blank">Aussie Author Challenge</a> year after year. I find little gems like this one that I might not have discovered otherwise. 4.5/5<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25785334-missing-pieces" target="_blank">Missing Pieces by Heather Gudenkauf</a> - I hate to use Girl on the Train as an example (the go-to book that other thrillers are compared to) but you know how some readers didn't like that book because they didn't like the lead character? Well, that's how I felt about this book. I was annoyed with Sarah and rolled my eyes at her more times than I could count. But, the mystery plus small town-setting, family-secret dynamics was enjoyable enough to keep me reading. 3/5<br />
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18225175-we-need-new-names" target="_blank">We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo</a> - <span id="freeTextContainerreview1575223043">What a debut from a talented young author! This spirited book is full of darkness and light, pain and humor. It examines personal identities and cultural clashes through the experiences of a young narrator. Thought-provoking about the challenges of immigrants plus gains and losses of leaving home and the expectations of opportunity. 4/5</span></div>
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6. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27313056-ghost-girls" target="_blank">Ghost Girls by Cath Ferla</a> - <span id="freeTextContainerreview1608006457">I attended school for a few years that is aimed at international students and located in the Haymarket/Sussex Street/Chinatown area of Sydney. So, many of the locations described in this book and the requirements of student visa holders were known to me. Even the cover photo, I know that exact street. I thought the author did an excellent job painting the picture of this area and these students. And, sadly, it seems very real to me that students could go missing the way the plot plays out. 4/5</span></div>
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7. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30689335-the-roanoke-girls" target="_blank">The Roanoke Girls by Amy Engel</a> - Not exactly sure what this says about me, but I enjoy reading books about dysfunction, and this book is filled to the brim with it. I felt the author did an admirable job writing a riveting book that included some severe, dark, and extremely unhealthy relationships. 4.5/5<br />
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<b><i><u>Currently reading:</u></i></b> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23398919-bull-mountain" target="_blank">Bull Mountain by Brian Panowich</a> (and, it's fantastic, so far)<br /></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I've shown you mine...now, you show me yours...</span></i></b></div>
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Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-91151414448210293112017-05-07T17:26:00.001+10:002017-05-07T17:26:10.642+10:00Sunday's Seven Snapshots vol.121<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Spent a little time in the sunshine, reading a book, and chillin' with my homegirls<br />
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This is Dolly's version of whispering sweet nothings in my ear<br />
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I interrupted my husband in his home workshop to draw a name from a hat for my wild card winner of Book Challenge by Erin.<br />
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I headed into work early a couple of days this week and the autumn winds were blowing which reminded me that hoodies are my favorite article of clothing.<br />
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Our family loves the drive-in ~ we went Saturday night to see Guardians of the Galaxy 2<br />
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I tried to get some blog reading done this Sunday. I meant to get some email replying done too, but that didn't happen. Forgive me because these blue skies were calling out for me to get outside......<br />
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<b><i>Happy Sunday to you and yours!</i></b></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-56509236947845904362017-05-02T11:47:00.001+10:002017-05-02T11:47:46.956+10:00Book Challenge by Erin 6.0 Wrap Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You all know that I am a sucker for book challenges. Also, you know the one that is nearest and dearest to me is the one that I host ~ <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">Book Challenge by Erin</a> (yes, I know, those creative juices were really flowing when I came up with that name.)<br />
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Most of the challenge's activity occurs on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">facebook group</a>. Selfishly, it allows me to interact with book lovers from every era of my life ~ family, high school friends, college friends, co-workers, adult friends, blogger buddies, friends of friends and more! It is an open group. I try to be a <b><span style="color: red;">stress-free</span></b><span style="color: red;">, </span><b><span style="color: red;">no-pressure</span></b> host. I encourage as much (or as little) participation as a reader wants to give. <br />
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I did add a <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/205317-book-challenge-by-erin" target="_blank">goodreads group</a> this challenge as well. But, the activity was lacking there (something for me to work on in the future). <br />
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<i>This group enriches my life. The support, the participation, the interaction, and just sharing the love of books is something that I could have never predicted would bring me so much happiness! Yes, I keep a score, a tally of points, and I give prizes, but those don't matter to me nearly as much as the engagement with each other and the passion for reading that is evident among the group members. Thank you to all who participate! I probably get greater pleasure out of it than any of the challenge participants.</i> <br />
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How did we do for the sixth challenge installment? Take a look...<br />
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Book Challenge by Erin 6.0 is complete! For all who participated this challenge:<br />
<ul>
<li>The most books ever read for one of our challenges - <span style="color: red;">605!</span> (compared to 566 in the previous challenge) - this total has increased with every challenge</li>
<li>The most to finish all 10 books - 33!</li>
<li>The readers that finished BOTH rounds (20 books total) - 6 </li>
<li>Readers from USA (25+ states), Canada, Scotland, Switzerland, Germany, Australia participated</li>
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I appreciate each and every one that gives to this group. I read every book list, review, comment, and I am grateful for all of the support and encouragement shown for the love of books! It is a happy place for me, and I hope I've created a happy place for others. I've received some amazing feedback from participants this time. <br />
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<b><i><span style="color: red;">Winners!</span></i></b> I gave *small* prizes to four participants: the first person to finish BOTH rounds & the first person to finish the first round were the same person, the second person to finish the first round, the person that accumulated the most points, and a "wild card" draw between all the ones who finished the challenge. <br />
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<b><i><span style="color: red;">Let me brag a little about more of our blogger friends...the following completed the challenge by reading 10 (or more) books:</span></i></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.canidecideanotherday.com/" target="_blank">Megan at Can I Decide Another Day?</a><br />
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<a href="http://heathershurrah.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Heather at Heather's Hurrah</a><br />
<a href="https://runwright.net/" target="_blank"></a><br />
<a href="https://runwright.net/2017/04/29/book-challenge-by-erin-6-0-results/" target="_blank">Karen at Run Wright</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.amindfulmigration.com/" target="_blank">Tanya at A Mindful Migration</a><br />
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<a href="https://confuzzledom.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Bev at Confuzzledom</a><br />
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<a href="http://edb214.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Ericka at A Quiet Girl's Musings of a World that Talks Too Much</a><br />
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<a href="http://jannghi.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Jamie at Whatever I Think Of!</a><br />
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<a href="http://northwestnativeblog.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Mattie at Northwest Native</a><br />
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<a href="http://itsmylife-jen.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Jen at It's My Life</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.smartassdirect.com/" target="_blank">Jenn at Quirky Pickings</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.smartassdirect.com/" target="_blank">Olya at The Siberian American</a><br />
<a href="http://www.easilyentertained.net/" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.easilyentertained.net/" target="_blank">Christina at Easily Entertained</a><br />
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Thinking about joining us for the next challenge?? Join the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">facebook group</a>. If you have any facebook friends that you think would enjoy the challenge, recommend them to join the group. Some of the most enthusiastic readers in the group are friends of friends...and I love that! Again, this challenge is open to more than just bloggers. We have a lot of non-blogger participants. If you know anyone who may want to dabble into the world of book challenges, share this page with them: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookChallengeByErin/" target="_blank">Book Challenge by Erin</a>.<br />
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Or don't. Some bloggers don't do facebook, and I'm cool with that too. Of course, I announce stuff here on my blog too.<br />
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JUNE 1st - category announcement for Book Challenge by Erin 7.0<br />
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JULY 1st - OCTOBER 31st - BOOK CHALLENGE by ERIN 7.0 - tell your friends! Invite them to the group. The more book lovers, the better!<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I repeatedly say it (because I mean it): I don't care if someone reads one book or 20, as long as my challenge has encouraged reading, that's a win for me.</span></b> </i><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-82279001085612725202017-04-30T19:15:00.000+10:002017-04-30T19:15:38.136+10:00Sunday's Seven Snapshots: vol.120<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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New tattoo - in honor of my stepkids - Liam specifically requested I get an owl tattoo in his honor, a blue owl (as in "Chelsea" blue) and a rose because my stepdaughter is named Chelsea Rose.</div>
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Picked up some books at the library and excited to read them all that I couldn't choose what to read first!<br />
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My little birdwatchers<br />
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A book, a cat, a comfy blanket...my favorite way to spend an evening<br />
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I have a friend that lives in Scotland who lovvves Captain America's Chris Evans. All I need to do is send her a snap of him when he's on tv and she knows I'm thinking of her.<br />
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My sweet little sleeping baby<br />
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Sunset on an evening walk over our backyard<br />
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<b><i>Hope you have a great week!</i></b><br />
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Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-56347160649191292962017-04-28T19:37:00.002+10:002017-04-28T19:37:45.902+10:00Happy Things vol.2I meant to post a happy list last week, but that frickin' kidney stone had other ideas. So, I'm happy to say that I'm back at it, focusing on happiness. Things that made me happy this week:<br />
<ol>
<li>Candles and hot baths</li>
<li>Sing (the movie) ~ the stepkid convinced us to watch it, and it was adorable.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>Most of you know, I host <a href="https://www.junk-o.com/collections/featured/products/fight-the-power" target="_blank">Book Challenge by Erin</a>. We are winding up the final days of the 6th time for me to host this challenge (post coming next week about it.) This comment from one of the participants made me beyond happy:<i> "Thx so much for all you do to make this happen. I read books that I would never have picked up and discovered many more by observing what others were reading. My to read list is much richer thanks to you and this great group of book lovers."</i></li>
<li>New tattoo (picture coming soon when it has healed more)</li>
<li>In exactly one month, I will be in Texas.</li>
<li>Seeing the screensaver in my 9 year old stepkid's iPad ~ it was a selfie with his "girlfriend" ~ too cute</li>
<li>Library day</li>
<li>I hit a significant number on the scale for weight loss. I try not to get *too* caught up with the number on the scale, but losing 20 pounds has certainly made me happy.</li>
<li>Sleeping with the windows open</li>
<li>Niece 2 is graduating high school ~ her senior pics have filled my heart with many emotions, happiness being one of them.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Linking with.....<a href="http://theflynnigans.com/" target="_blank">Lindsay</a>, <a href="http://mypixieblog.com/" target="_blank">Charlotte</a>, and <a href="http://www.thebravewanderer.com/" target="_blank">Chrissy</a>.<br />
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Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-23615242727254006372017-04-25T19:26:00.000+10:002017-04-25T19:26:52.644+10:00Wise words from my brotherWhen <a href="http://www.seeyouinaporridge.com/" target="_blank">Kristen</a> and I decided to start a series about our lives "Swappin' Countries" as expats, I asked other bloggers to give us some questions and prompts to help kickstart us. Welllllll...life happens...so, Kristen and I haven't been superb at keeping that series alive just yet, but we have a post in mind, coming soon...<br />
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I started answering one of those questions months ago (from <a href="http://lildesiqua.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Dani from Faster Than Forever</a>) who asked: <b><i>"How did your family/loved ones take the news?"</i></b> (that I was moving to the other side of the world) <br />
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But, that post sat in draft unfinished. Until I read <a href="https://audielou.com/" target="_blank">Audrey</a>'s post<a href="https://audielou.com/2017/04/20/get-out-of-there/" target="_blank"> "Get Out of There"</a> because it got me thinking about our life choices about where we live and who we live life with.<br />
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When I announced that I was moving from Texas to Australia, I received varying degrees of support from loved ones. Most of the family was less than thrilled. <br />
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My mother cried and cried and didn't really know what to say except "please don't go." This was the one and only time in my life that my<b><i> always supportive</i></b> father told me that I was disappointing him, and he meant it. The conversation included me trying to be strong through tears streaming down my face, and I was collapsing inside.<br />
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My brother suggested that he and I go for a walk around his neighborhood. <br />
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<b>Back story:</b> My brother met his wife when he was 18, got engaged at 20, and married at 21. He worked at a big international accounting firm in a big city for a few years...then moved back to raise a family in College Station, Texas (a town of about 100,000). He has 3 glorious children. The family is close. Top priority. Their social activities revolve around school, church, and extra-curricular activities. He and my sister-in-law have been married for 25+ years, and their relationship is an inspiration. Their relationships with their children is a beautiful thing to witness. Nobody, no one, no family is perfect. They are the first to admit this. But, they are as close to perfect as a collective whole as I've personally witnessed, and I am in awe of them.<br />
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So, when we took a walk around the neighborhood...I mentioned something about him being the "golden child" and the one that always made our parents proud and was never a disappointment. He discussed that his life made him happy and fulfilled...but, he said he knew that if I led the life he had, I'd have been bored. He said that he knew we were different. The things that excited me or fueled my zest for life weren't necessarily his. But, that there was nothing wrong with that. There was nothing wrong with me wanting to take risks. There was nothing wrong with me wanting to live in a different country. Sure, I'd be missed, terribly, but I needed to live my life in a way that would be fulfilling and make me happy. And, I was <b>always</b> welcome to come home.<br />
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<i><b>Tears are falling as I remember this conversation from over 8 years ago.</b></i><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">In an ideal world, my loved ones wish that I lived closer. But, it's the words of my brother, knowing that he "got me" that still fill my heart.</span></b> <br />
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Eventually, other family members have come around. No one likes that I live so far away. Heck, I don't like that I live so far away from them. Sometimes, I think that me living so far from home actually encourages communication with some family members. You know, the ones we take for granted that live close, yet we still don't see often? I hear from some aunts and cousins more than I did when I lived in Texas. Others, I don't hear from as much. But, we all have to make an effort to maintain connections and relationships, regardless of distance.<br />
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The support from my brother, his calm and wisdom, will always be something that I cherish. We don't talk much. We don't have to. He knows I am filled with imperfections and flaws, but I know he loves me unconditionally. I do not take this for granted.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mom says this is her favorite picture of us, so I recycle it every now and then.</td></tr>
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<b><i><span style="color: red;">Have you received wise words from a loved one at an important time in your life? I encourage you to reflect on them and share them (if you feel moved to do so).</span></i></b></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-86161149540188168272017-04-23T19:53:00.000+10:002017-04-23T19:55:18.372+10:00Sunday's Seven Snapshots: Tales from the E/R<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Other things happened this week, but I can barely remember them. A kidney stone took over my life mid-week, and I'm still recuperating.</div>
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I've had a kidney stone once before about 5 or 6 years ago. When I started experiencing pain this week, I wasn't sure what was happening. I even googled "appendix burst" to know what side the appendix is on. Later that night, as I was describing the pain that was intensifying, my guy and I looked at each other and wondered "is this another kidney stone?"</div>
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I went to take a hot bath. Pain was still increasing, and I don't know, maybe it was from the heat of the bath as well, but I began to vomit. I had no appetite so I hadn't eaten all day, but my body still found plenty to vomit. A decision was made to go to the E/R. This was about 10:00pm on Thursday night.</div>
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I got in the car, ready to go, drove down the block, only to realize I didn't have my purse. Oops. Turn around to get it, because, you know, and i.d. and medicare card are important to have. My guy goes into the house to retrieve the forgotten purse while I puke out the side of the car into our grass.</div>
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We get to the E/R. I go directly to the toilet to puke some more while my guy explains to the situation to the triage nurse. They got to work immediately. One dose morphine. Nothing. Second dose of morphine. Still, nothing. I can't remember what the third attempt to pain relief was, but I know it didn't work. There was blood work and an urinalysis plus a decision to transfer me to a larger hospital. Yep, got an ambulance ride out of this "fun" night too. Finally, a super strong dose of oxy was given and pain started to subside but nausea increased.</div>
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A CT scan determined, yes, there was a kidney stone. E/R decided that they wanted me to transfer to urology. So, I spent several hours waiting for a bed there. In the meantime, I got to listen to the sounds of an E/R. I just remembering trying to crawl up into a little ball. </div>
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I was transferred to urology. While being wheeled into my room, I grasped the barf bag and gave a treat to my new nurse. She was so wonderful. She was everything you'd want from a nurse, compassionate, knowledgeable, and efficient. I saw doctors, nurses, had more blood work, and urine tests. Most importantly, they were trying to get the pain and nausea under control while pumping as many fluids in me as they could.</div>
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Twenty hours later...no stone had passed...but I was home drinking lots and lots of fluids and drugged up. Sweet baby Ricky knew his mama was not feeling her best.<br />
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Another day passed and so did that kidney stone! Thank goodness. I gotta admit it. I looked at that thing and was dumbfounded by such a little stone causing so much havoc. I'm still achy, nauseous, and woozy, but that will pass too. <br />
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I've been resting this weekend with my guy, my kitties, and my little penguin, Penelope.<br />
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I wasn't even going to post a "Sunday's Seven Snapshots" today, but I felt alright enough to post this tonight, so I'd say that I am well on my way to feeling much, much better.<br />
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A friend of mine is a sportswriter, and he shared <a href="http://blog.chron.com/sportsupdate/2015/09/a-tale-of-kidney-stones-jerry-world-and-compassion-from-the-cotton-bowl/amp/" target="_blank">this story of his with me</a>. <br />
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Have you ever experienced kidney stones? Aren't they <b><i>the worst??</i></b>Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-35882960758717333352017-04-19T16:32:00.002+10:002017-04-19T20:13:08.837+10:00Movie Questionnaire<div>
I've been in a blogging slump. Some of it is a timing and scheduling factor. But, all too often, when I sit down to write, I'm just not focused or inspired or articulate. So, I will keep sharing lists, link-ups, and questionnaires (like the one below that I stole from my friend's facebook page) until I can work that shizznit out:<br>
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most hated movie of all-time: Zoolander<br>
movie i think is overrated: People like what they like, and I don't want to criticize that...but, for me, personally, I tried watching one of the Lord of the Rings on 3 separate occasions and fell asleep every time.<br>
movie i think is underrated: ??<br>
movie i love: Almost Famous<br>
movie i secretly love: If I love a movie, I don't keep it a secret.</div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show">favorite action movie: Independence Day<br> favorite drama: Good Will Hunting<br> favorite horror: Rob Zombie's remake of Halloween</span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show">favorite comedy: Step Brothers</span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show">favorite disney movie: The Fox and the Hound</span></div>
<span class="text_exposed_show">favorite sci-fi movie: Guardians of the Galaxy<br> favorite animated movie: Since I listed The Fox and the Hound for "Disney", I'll say Big Hero 6 for this.<br> favorite superhero movie: The Avengers (2012)<br> favorite musical: Moulin Rouge<br> favorite western: Tombstone<br>favorite martial arts: The Karate Kid (because, let's be honest, I can't think of any other "martial arts" film that I've seen and enjoyed)<br> favorite indie: I think Dazed and Confused was an indie when it was released. I'm not so good with my knowledge of what's an indie film.<br> favorite bad movie: Grease 2<br> childhood favorite: The Outsiders<br> favorite franchise: Marvel<br> best trilogy: The Godfather<br> guilty pleasure: Urban Cowboy (the guilt comes from the fact that I cheer for a guy who commits domestic violence and adultery)</span><span class="text_exposed_show"><br>favorite director: Stephen Spielberg</span><br>
<span class="text_exposed_show"><i>*The next 2 have stumped me more than any other question...I just really don't have "a" favorite</i></span><br>
<span class="text_exposed_show">*favorite actor: Morgan Freeman, Jared Leto (he's not just a pretty face), Robert Downey Jr.<br> *favorite actress: Kate Winslet, Nicole Kidman, Helen Mirren (really, I just want to be her when I grow up)<br> favorite foreign film: City of God<br> favorite movie this year so far: Lion<br> worst movie so far this year: I think Batman v. Superman was last year, but oh well.<br> movie i have seen recently: watched Sing last night<br> what i thought of it: it's adorable<br> most anticipated film of this year: Guardians of the Galaxy 2<br> favorite movie of all-time: Love Actually</span><br>
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<b><i><span style="color: red;">Pick 4 of the above "favorites" and tell me yours...</span></i></b></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-86616811247186161012017-04-16T19:59:00.001+10:002017-04-16T19:59:18.988+10:00Sunday's Seven Snapshots vol.118<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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My guy went out to mow the lawn. I heard meow-ing. This is where I found Ricky, chatting to his human daddy outside. This cat is so full of personality.<br />
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When he wants to cuddle, he is super duper sweet, as evidenced in this picture of these sweet boys.<br />
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Speaking of fur baby cuddles, I got lots from Sally girl this week too.<br />
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Easter Sunday consisted of me going to give thanks.<br />
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My guy and I braved the crowds and went to the Royal Easter Show ~ part livestock and agriculture show, part carnival, and part capitalism with booths of so many things to buy.<br />
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We viewed all the animals ~ horses, cows, goats, sheep, alpacas, dogs, and more...plus, this momma sow and her baby piglets were just so sweet. <br />
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There's also an art display. I told my guy if we had a spare $2,500, that I'd buy this painting. I loved it. I stared at it from every angle.</div>
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<b><i>Hope you enjoyed your holiday (if you celebrate) week as well!</i></b></div>
Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-57644558226743595222017-04-14T19:35:00.000+10:002017-04-14T19:44:56.310+10:00Happy thingsI'm busy. We are all busy. But, it's good to take a moment to remind myself of some of the things that made me especially happy this week, and it's good to share my happiness with others. <br />
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Ten things that made me happy:<br />
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<li>My guy and I had a night out together last Friday. We put the phones away and just enjoyed each other's company.</li>
<li>I've been at the new job for a little over a month, and I was offered a promotion this week. </li>
<li>Cuddles from fur babies (yes, this makes me happy every week.)</li>
<li>Maxalt - a prescription wafer tablet that magically makes migraines vanish</li>
<li>Paid holiday on Good Friday</li>
<li>Wine night with a girlfriend</li>
<li>I joined a new library near my new job. On their website, they list newly-released books (or upcoming new releases) and let the public vote on the books that the library should get. This made my book-lovin' heart oh-so-happy.</li>
<li>Introducing the stepkid to the video for "Thriller"; his first statement that made me laugh was "that doesn't look like Michael Jackson", and I wasn't sure which MJ he's familiar with to compare Thriller MJ to; and second statement that made me smile was his genuine glee in the dance scene when he exclaimed "dancing zombies!"</li>
<li>Eating chicken fajitas and guacamole that I cooked, and my guy saying "that was a great dinner that you cooked tonight".</li>
<li><a href="http://www.anestingnomad.com/2017/04/expat-stories-2-switcheroos-australia-america.html/" target="_blank">Guest posting for Rachel at A Nesting Nomad</a>; hit that link and go check it out!</li>
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<b><i><span style="color: red;">Hope you are feeling happy this week too!</span></i></b></div>
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Linking up with <a href="http://theflynnigans.com/" target="_blank">Lindsay</a>, <a href="http://mypixieblog.com/" target="_blank">Charlotte</a>, and <a href="http://www.thebravewanderer.com/" target="_blank">Chrissy</a>.</div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-84247597439122380242017-04-11T15:17:00.000+10:002017-04-11T15:17:06.605+10:00I show you my books, you show me yours... vol.27<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoD5X0TRLkle-ik9Z4hGTsWiS3nObiD6NQnB33mCz_B3CqNJxO9-daHt094cdNiwD4iRQ4Y4DggQQFwsQkNYBZTTeQScC4SudqeRhwOgvZeAhpmwSZgtZhIS1lTC95VYdLUnOjz1GFL4a/s1600/SUYB.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
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It's <span style="color: red;">Show Us Your Books Day</span>! The day hosted by <a href="http://janasays.com/" target="_blank">Jana</a> & <a href="http://www.lifeaccordingtosteph.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>, the day that makes my <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/16213330-erin-gray" target="_blank">goodreads</a> "to read" list grow, and the day I interact with a blogging community of readers. I love this day of the month.<br />
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<b><i><u>What I've read since last link-up:</u></i></b><br />
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1. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9792287-the-rose-garden" target="_blank">The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">Time Travel books aren't normally my thang. If they were, I'd probably have loved this book. As is, I liked it alright. I liked a couple of the characters a whole lot more than the others. 3.5/5</span></span><br />
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2. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23315800-18-and-life-on-skid-row" target="_blank">18 and Life on Skid Row by Sebastian Bach</a> - Those who know me know that I am a fan of rock music and rock bios. <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody _1n4g">First and foremost, Sebastian Bach is a true fanatic for music. He calls about a dozen guys his "hero" in this book. I'm okay with that. Who says you need to limit yourself to one hero? He name drops. A lot. But I do believe he is such a genuine fan of those people. Sebastian is also a fan of himself. That's no secret. He's toured the world in a rock band. He's performed on Broadway and was even in Gilmore Girls. This book had what I wanted from a rock bio - stories about music and excess, the highs and the lows of sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll. 4/5</span></span></div>
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3. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22693182-where-they-found-her" target="_blank">Where They Found Her by Kimberly McCreight</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">I wanted to know how all the stories unfolded, but I wasn't exactly satisfied. Can't really explain my dissatisfaction without giving up spoilers. Too many characters. Some written well and some not. 2/5</span></span></div>
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4. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/285092.High_Fidelity" target="_blank">High Fidelity by Nick Hornby</a> - <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody _1n4g">I've heard that Jonathan Tropper (a favortie author of mine) is the American version of British author, Nick Hornby. I've seen a couple of movies based on Hornby books (About a Boy and this one.) I don't usually read books when I've already seen the movie, but I'm so glad I did with this one. Plus, I'd been wanting to read a Hornby book for years. Happy I finally did. Even though the guys are total music snobs, and I hate music snobs. Even though the main character, Rob, is completely exhausting at times, other times I couldn't help but love him. I can see the Tropper/Hornby comparison and will definitely grab another book by this author. 4/5</span></span></div>
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5. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10916.The_Pact" target="_blank">The Pact by Jodi Picoult</a> - I was late to the Jodi Picoult party. I hadn't read a book of hers until last year (Nineteen Minutes). I followed that up last month with Small Great Things and now, The Pact. She sure does know how to tackle complicated, heavy, difficult topics and write a complex, riveting story. 4.5/5</div>
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<b><i><u>Next up:</u></i></b> Bird Box by Josh Malerman; after I posted this pic on Instagram last week, I got several encouraging comments about it, so looking forward to diving in!<br />
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<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><b><i><span style="color: red;">I've shown you mine, now you show me yours...books...</span></i></b></span></span></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1470970948526381708.post-57235462522519346032017-04-09T20:43:00.000+10:002017-04-09T20:43:16.811+10:00Sunday's Seven Snapshots vol.117<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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There is a restaurant in Sydney that calls itself "Tex Mex". It is acceptable. The best thing about it? Half price margaritas during happy hour.<br />
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I saw this on the wall, and I liked it so much I read it about 5 times over to let it sink in before snapping the photo.<br />
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These guys ~ what can I say? ~ they are just so stinkin' cute and lovable.<br />
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I have more library cards in my wallet than credit cards, and I'm pretty damn pleased with that fact.<br />
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Some days, we like to go to the little "mom & pop" diner that serves simple dishes like toast with avocado, cheese, and tomato.<br />
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The description of this candle reads "sweet brown sugar melts into golden honey nectar on a base of candied almonds and vanilla milk". I think this is what heaven smells like.</div>
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I finally watched the Big Little Lies finale. This is the first television season that I've watched every episode since the last season of Dexter. Yes, we've discussed that already. I'm not big on tv. But, I'm so glad I watched this. <i>Perfectly</i> cast with <i>incredible</i> acting performances. I will sing the praises of these actresses and actors to anyone who will listen.<br />
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<b><i>Hope you all have a good week (and possibly a short one) coming up!</i></b>Erin of TexErin-in-SydneyLandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09744003004126232764noreply@blogger.com14