My dilemma

Howdy folks, remember me? 

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.....

Time, and more specifically, prioritizing my time.

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.

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.

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. 

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.  This is my dilemma.

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 didn't even know it was coming. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

Galentines Blogger Exchange

I've said it before; I'll say it again: The world needs more care packages.  I love sending them, and I love receiving them.  That's one of the reasons that I enjoy participating in blogger exchanges/swaps from time to time.  How fun is it to receive a package, that feeling of excitement not knowing what goodies are inside, and opening it to find some real treats?! 

I hadn't participated in Mattie and Olya's previous blogger exchanges, so I jumped at the chance for this one.  My guy and I aren't really Valentine's Day people.  Honestly, I have no strong opinion for or against the day, we just don't celebrate it with cards or flowers or chocolates or dates.  So, why not avoid being a total Debbie Downer and celebrate the day with bloggers? 

I was assigned Ashley as the person to send a gift.  I'll let you visit Ashley's blog to see what I sent her.  Ashley and I have been reading each other's blogs and interacting regularly for a while now, so I had a few things in mind that I'd enjoy sending her.  I'm going to take guess and say I nailed it (as far as the gifts I chose.)

As for what I received...I'd never used "elfster" before.  How fun and helpful is that site?  I added a few things to a "wishlist" as a guide, but honestly, I'm just happy and grateful to receive anything. 

What did I wish for?  A lot of kitty things.  So, you know, now's a good time to show you some pics of my beautiful little felines as they were my inspirations. 

Jess from To Sparkle Punch sent my gift, and oh my, I was giddy when I opened my package.  I certainly feel spoiled!  I wished for a pair of super small kitty cat earrings.  Jess said that the ones I had on the wishlist didn't ship to Australia, so she selected a different pair.  I love them!  How adorable are they?!?!

I put them on immediately and am still wearing them!

And, many of you know that my guy is a jeweller.  So, I'm a lucky girl to have received some pretty rings throughout the years.  How cute is this ring holder for those special pieces of jewellery?!

To say this blogger exchange was a success is an understatement.  I enjoyed selecting my gift to Ashely, and I adore my gifts from Jess.  As a bonus, Jess is new to me, so this weekend, I plan to stalk read her blog and get to know her better.  Thanks ladies, and thanks to our hosts! 

Oh, and so my canine lovelies don't feel left out, here's a pic of their gorgeous mugs, and I'll wish for some doggie goodies next time. 

Are you interested in participating in blogger exchanges?

A Different Way to Celebrate December

You may have heard me mention jenn (she likes lowercase) around these parts before.  She's the only blogger buddy that I know and am friends with in real life, or as the kids say it "irl".  Like, we've shared a meal in person kind of friend.  (Not that I wouldn't be happy to do so with many others of you...there's just this thing called an ocean that separates most of us.)  In fact, I've known her since before the world of blogging...way before.  We shared the same homeroom from 9th through 12th grade. 

She created this super clever, creative, fun scavenger hunt of sorts that helps put some positivity, goodness, and kindness out into the world.  Here's a recap of her November adventures.  She's doing the same for December.  I know, I know.  Decembers are crazy busy for all of us.  But, I'm going to try to squeeze a few of these activities into my month.  Why don't you join us?

From jenn's post:  ten things to celebrate in december: a scavenger hunt

December 1, 2016

it's ten this time because a) time, b) money and c) it's my bloggy and i can if i want to. mental floss compiled a list of fourteen days to celebrate in december. i'm using some but not all because of the aforementioned reasons. if you choose to blog about this, photos are required, but they don't have to be selfies (see reason c). you can do them in any order you'd like. they do not have to be tied to their day. you've until december thirty-first to complete this thing.

one. december first. national pie day. also national eat a red apple day. buy, or if you're feeling especially awesome, bake an apple pie and take it to the servers of a favored restaurant. they bring you food and drink at your beck and call. be sweet and bring them some treats.

two. december second. national salesperson's day. i've done more than my share of time in retail hell. i know how dreaded this time of year is for the gals behind the counter. when you're out shopping for those special gifts, ask an associate what a good pick-me-up would be. what can you do to put a bright spot in her day? chances are good it'll be a simple as a cup of starbucks or, in the case of one of my manager friends, a route forty-four diet coke from sonic with hardly any ice in it.

three. december fifth. bathtub party day. things are about to crazy, yeah? or maybe they've done so already? all the shopping and the baking and the trimming of the tree... treat yourself to a time out. snag a favored scented shower gel from bath and body works (or wherever you go for that stuff... i'm partial to bodycology's white gardenia, which can be found at the grocery store for like four bucks), pour a glass of wine, put on some music or listen to a bit of an audio book you've been dying to read but haven't had the time. give yourself a blessed hour. your family will probably thank you for it.

four. december sixth. st. nicholas day. surely you know a nick or a nicholas (or maybe a nicole?). take some time out of your day to send a special note to that person. 'tis the season...

five. december tenth. nobel prize day. here's a list of the laureates in literature. choose one and share a line or two from a work you admire.

six. december twelfth. poinsettia day. pick up one of these gorgeous creations and take it to a friend you've not seen in some time.

seven. december thirteenth. national cocoa day. take a breather from the christmas shopping. treat yourself to a cup of hot chocolate.

eight. december fifteenth. cat herders day. surely you know someone who's got one too many cats in his or her house. and surely those cats are wreaking havoc on the christmas decor. find a cute cat card and send it their way. they may be needing the reminder of why they love the things right about then.

nine. december twenty-first. winter solstice day. the longest night of the year. the hardest time of the year for some. there are those who are grieving. there are those who are in the throes of some pretty wicked depression, and this time of year is NEVER good for them. find a way to bring them some warmth, to shed some light. check with your local service organizations and see what you can do to help those in need. take some flowers to a senior living facility. treat a friend who may be grieving to lunch or a movie. or just sit with them for a while. listen.

ten. december twenty-eighth. national card playing day. we spend so much time on our phones or sitting at computers being "sociable". try getting a group of friends together for a game of hearts or spades, uno, skip-bo or phase ten. turn the television off. sit at a table and enjoy each other. have a game night. unwind.

Great Pumpkin Swap Reveal

It feels so strange to hit publish on this post while I've got 4 different tabs open watching election results.  But, the world needs more kindness and goodness and togetherness right now, and I believe care packages are examples of those things.  As frivolous as that may seem.

The 5th Annual Great Pumpkin Swap was hosted by Kristin and Becky.  I was super stoked to participate because Kristin assured me someone would be willing to ship to Australia.  Y'all...that's no small feat.  My swap buddy spent $50 USD to send her care package to me.  That's generous and super, duper kind!  I am a firm believer that the world needs more care packages.  They always bring a smile to my face.  Who was this wonderful swap buddy?  It was Micah from Unabashedly Me.

When I emailed Micah to tell her some of my "likes" to help with swap ideas, this was my list:

cats

dogs

books

bright colors

fun socks

American snacks made of fake cheese (cheez-its, cheese nips, cheddar goldfish, crunchy Cheetos, etc.)

kitsch, local flair - anything uniquely from Iowa

jolly ranchers hard candy

rock music

animal print

make-up (I seriously miss cheap make-up from Target or Wal-mart like the NYC brand; it is impossible to get $1.99 eyeliner here)

And, here's what she sent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:

I received this care package on Thursday.  The giant bag of Goldfish was devoured by Sunday.

Books!  And...even better...Micah is the author of one of them, and her friend wrote the other!

Fun socks!  A kitty unicorn and a French bulldog as a vampire.

Ricky approves of the 3rd pair of socks that Micah sent me.  After all, it has lions, tigers, and tuxedo cats.  Okay, well, maybe they are black panthers, but Ricky and I prefer to believe they are tuxedo cats. 

Make-up!  And, I hadn't even told her that I'm a sucker for eye palettes too.

  Much love to Micah and the hosts! 

Have you ever participated in a blog swap?

Pumpkin Swap

LINK

Reasons that I shouldn't sign up for "The 5th Annual Great Pumpkin Swap" hosted by Kristin and Becky:

1. It's not fall in Australia.
2. I'm celebrating springtime which happens to be my favorite season of the year.
3. Shipping costs to Australia aren't cheap.

Reasons that I should sign up:

1. I've attempted to sign up for a couple of other swaps, was denied, so I avoid that rejection...but...Kristin already told me that I wouldn't be denied in this swap.
2. I like sending care packages.
3. I like receiving care packages.
4. The world needs more care packages.
5. Fun with other bloggers
6. I can educate others about seasonal differences in different hemispheres.

Clearly, there are more reasons that I should sign up than shouldn't.  So, I've thrown my hat in the ring. 

Do you want to join the fun of The 5th Annual Great Pumpkin Swap?  Go here to sign up!

Olympic Book Tag

Shannon started it...

Then, Kristen and Kristen joined the fun...

And Rose...

And Bev...

And Jenn...

(and if there are others I'm missing, share them with me because I'd LOVE to read them!)

How could I pass up a post like this?

A Book I Loved from the First Page:  This is the first paragraph of the Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys:  "My mother's a prostitute. Not the filthy, streetwalking kind. She's actually quite pretty, fairly well spoken, and has lovely clothes. But she sleeps with men for money or gifts, and according to the dictionary, that makes her a prostitute."  I was immediately invested in the story.

Favorite Road Trip Book:  Violet and Finch explore their home state of Indiana through some adventures similar to a scavenger hunt in All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven, but this book is about so.much.more than that.

A Book with a Good Love Triangle:  The love triangle of Ridge, Sydney, and Maggie is heart-breaking and well-written.  It's YA, and yes, there's some cheesiness, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover. 

A Book I Really Didn't "Get":  Sorry, not sorry.  To me, there is nothing sexy, attractive, or appealing about Christian Grey.  The believability factor was completely off the map for me with 50 Shades of Grey by E.L. James.  I quit it with only 50 pages to go because I just did not care what happened.

A Book Set in the Summer:  Released under two different names, Vanessa Lafaye's Summertime (or Under a Dark Summer Sky) is set in the Florida Keys during 1935 Hurricane Season.  A book about relationships, duty, racism, love, small town dynamics, crime, life after war, death, a hurricane, and loss, there are just so many reasons why I loved this book.

A Book with a lot of Fighting/Bloodshed:  Don Winslow's epic saga portrayed in The Power of the Dog and it's follow-up, The Cartel is a realistic account of Mexican drug cartels and the "war on drugs".  Guess what.  There's A LOT of violence, fighting, death, and bloodshed in that world.  A lot.  Not for the faint at heart, but so, so good.

A Book with a lot of Plot Twists:  After reading I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh, this is what I had to say:  "You know when you're reading and think you've got it figured out...then you change your mind... then think 'well, maybe'... then you are completely wrong...then you are kinda correct, but there's a twist...then you've figured part of it out but it doesn't matter because the book is still so good? That was this book for me. I stayed up past my bedtime because I couldn't put it down."

A Book that Made Me Sob:  Others have listed this one as well, but I posted photographic proof that Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale did indeed make me sob black mascara streaks down my face.

A Slow Paced Book:  I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid is so slow that I almost quit it, and I don't quit books often.  Then, the last third of it (or quarter of it), it changed, picked up the pace, and I felt like I was watching a horror movie.

A Childhood Favorite:  The Poky Little Puppy is the book that I remember begging anyone and everyone to read it to me.  I loved it so much, I wanted to learn to read just so I could read this book.

A Book Featuring Animal(s):  The love I feel for The Thicket by Joe R. Lansdale is all about the cast of characters: a teenager who is chasing after a group of men who kidnapped his sister, Jack Parker, a charismatic "bounty-hunting dwarf named Shorty, a grave-digging son of an ex-slave named Eustace, and a street-smart woman-for-hire named Jimmie Sue" plus a wild hog that truly is a character all himself.

A Book I Struggled to Finish:  Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs - ** SPOILER ALERT ** This book and I didn't click. Sure, I could find the hilarity in the absurdity. But some of the severity of the dysfunction (particularly the graphic sexual abuse of a young teen boy by an adult, and the acceptance and encouragement by other adults for this "relationship" to take place) was so disturbing that I couldn't take the hiding behind humor and shock value as the only view presented.

A Book with a Great Friendship:  There is so much beauty to The Book Thief by Markus Zusak including both of Liesel's significant friendships: with Rudy and with Max.  A very close runner-up that is also WWII based is The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne and the friendship of Bruno and Shmuel. 

A Book that Actually Features Olympic Sports:  When I first created this list, I thought of The Book Thief for this category because Rudy idolized the great Olympian Jesse Owens.  But, the story of the friendships was much more important, so it went to the category above.  Then, I realized I had no rock bio in my list, and I read many rock bios.  In It's So Easy by Duff McKagan (bass player and founding member of Guns N Roses and other bands), he discusses at length the many tools he learned to fight addiction and excess.  One of the disciplines he practices is cycling. 

I've discussed almost all of these books in the past, but this was such a fun way to compile them in this post.  Won't you join in the Olympic Book Tag fun?  If you don't create your own post, then at least tell me at least one book for one category that you'd select.

Take a look...

Do y'all know the lovely Kaity at (Bee)autiful Blessings?  She's about to have her second bambino any day now (in fact from the time I type this to the post going live, she may have), so she's asked for a few guest posts to entertain her blogger buddies while she's a *little* busy with other important things. 

Kaity is another book lovin' book challenge fan, so, you know, she asked me to talk about one of my favorite subjects ~ BOOKS!  Go take a look..............

Fifty Questions for Friday

Jenn called me out to answer these questions...you can read her answers here (and where she got the questions)...and it was her birthday this week, so I shall oblige.  Happy birthday week, Jenn!

No, this is not an April Fool's post.  I'm really answering these questions.

one. what are you wearing? A red(ish), pink(ish), purple(ish) and black dress that I bought at a secondhand shop in Tyler, Texas with black patent flats
two. ever been in love? yes
three. ever had a terrible breakup? several
four. how tall are you? five foot six
five. how much do you weigh? too much
six. any tattoos? six
seven. any piercings? two in each ear
eight. favorite show? ever?  Oz
nine. favorite band? for anyone who is visiting for the first time, Bon Jovi
ten. something you miss? chile con queso
eleven. favorite song? I never like to pick "one" favorite; I love too many; one time, I did narrow it down to a top 21; I'll say "Scars" by Papa Roach

twelve. how old are you? 42
thirteen. zodiac sign? Gemini
fourteen. quality you look for in a partner? R-E-S-P-E-C-T
fifteen. favorite quote? Let your past make you better, not bitter - I talk about it in this post
sixteen. favorite actor? Robert Downey Junior
seventeen. favorite color? hot pink
eighteen. loud music or soft? both
nineteen. where do you go when you’re sad? the bath
twenty. how long does it take you to shower? 15 minutes

one. how long does it take you to get ready in the morning? 45 minutes
two. ever been in a physical fight? no
three. turn on? generosity
four. turn off? rudeness
five. fears? something terribly tragic happening to a loved one back home and not being able to get there in time to be by their side when I'm needed most
six. last thing that made you cry? depression
seven. last time you said you loved someone? about an hour ago
eight. last book you read? cover to cover? Little Black Lies by Sharon Bolton
nine. the book you’re currently reading? Cross Justice by James Patterson
thirty. last show you watched? Well, isn't this embarrassing?  There's this station here called CI (Crime & Investigation network), and I watched some show about a woman who killed her husband by setting fire to their hotel room called "Sins and Secrets".

one. last person you talked to? a customer
two. the relationship between you and the person you last texted? I count "Viber" as my mom and I texting.
three. favorite food? TexMex
four. place you want to visit? Texas is a given; the list is long for places I've never been; today, I'll say Rottnest Island, Western Australia because it looks like this:

Source: theluggageprofessionals.com.au

five. last place you were? I'm at work now; before that, I was on a train coming to work.
six. do you have a crush? Jon Bon Jovi 4eva

seven. last time you kissed someone? about an hour ago
eight. last time you were insulted? This morning, by some pissy woman who wanted me to open the store for her 20 minutes early, open the safe (although, no one else was in the store and according to our insurance policy, when a customer is here, in order to open the safe, two employees should be present), but I apologized nicely and said "no". 
nine. favorite flavor of sweet? caramel
forty. what instruments do you play? Is my ipod an instrument?

one. favorite piece of jewelry? Unfair question; my husband is a jeweller and has generously made several lovely pieces for me that all have a special meaning; but...because I don't want to give a lame answer and say "all of them", I'll pick my Australian sapphire & diamond ring.
two. last sport you played? I performed some *amazing* American Ninja Warrior stunts on the jungle gym at the local park in our neighborhood.
three. last song you sang? Thirty Seconds to Mars version of "Stay"

four. favorite chat up line? A woman without freckles is like a night without the stars.  *kidding*
five. have you ever used it? no
six. favorite film? Damn...picking just one is tough...wouldn't you rather hear my top 5?  Almost Famous, Grease 2, Love Actually (this is the one I say when I'm forced to pick just one), The Outsiders, and Urban Cowboy

seven. favorite time of day? the time of sunset
eight. favorite candy? Whatchamacallit
nine. favorite soda? Cherry Coke
fifty. who should answer these questions next?  You should.  Yes, you. 

Learn anything new about me?

Blogger Love vol.4

It's been awhile since I've spread some love, so let's do it, shall we?

Sanch has me anxiously awaiting a time I can join her...after all, I've been meaning to start yoga again: On cats, cat yoga and cat ladies

Ericka said what I wanted to say, but she said it better:  A Letter to Cheryl Tiegs

I'm ashamed to admit this because I try to make a better effort about these things, but I have no recollection of how I stumbled upon this post by Maria Helena, but I love it (and will probably steal the idea):  My Life Story in 6 Songs

My friend, Jenn, (she's a friend in real life that I've known for 20+ years) has a way with words.  Example:  coincidence...and the six ounces or so
She's also looking for guest bloggers this month, and I know she'd greatly appreciate you for volunteer. 

An series featuring Sydney expats hosted by Cristin:  What do people at home think about Australia?

Rebecca shared some very valuable reminders that I've seen before, but it was really well-timed for me to see again: Life lessons

Linking up with Kristen and Joey:

Bloggers Love Book Challenges - Blogger Love vol.3

 I host a book challenge that I've invited you all to join in this post.  The challenge is mostly organized through a facebook group, but...as we know...there's a lot of bloggers in blogger land that love a good book challenge.  I thought I'd give them a shout out, spread a little blogger love, and link you to their posts about their challenge participation.  If you like books and/or you like blogs, check 'em out!

BLOG ROLL with Book Challenge by Erin 4.0 posts:

Ashley at The Wandering Weekenders

Cat at Kitty Kitty La La

Sanch at Living My Imperfect Life

Ferne at Ferne Merrylees

Megan at Can I Decide Another Day?

Ericka at A Quiet Girl's Musings of a World that Talks Too Much

Kimmi at Chaos & Cocoa

Jana at Jana Says

Christina at Easily Entertained

Kristen at See You in a Porridge

Kerry at Till Then, Smile Often

Louise at Life as Louise

Heather at I Do What I Want

Kristen at Divulge and Indulge

Lynn at Smoke & Mirrors

Brita at Bella Brita

Kristin at Stuff, Things, etc.

Heather at Heather's Hurrah

Karen at Run Wright

Other bloggers that I'm happy to have join us:  Alyssa, Kelli, Jenn, Kaity, Gwen,  Karen... I think there might be more, but I don't have a link for them.  If that's the case, let me know!

BOOK CHALLENGE BY ERIN 4.0 has officially started!

More fun facts about Book Challenge by Erin 4.0:

• I know of 8 different countries represented (USA, Australia, Scotland, England, Romania, Guam, Canada, China)
• 22 different US states (CA, CO, DE, FL, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, RI, SC, TX, WA, WV, UT) updated
•  If I've forgotten anyone, correct me...because I do think there are a few more that I've left off.

I'd LOVE to get all 50 states represented (someday)...and even more countries. But I think this is a fantastic result for a group that's been active since mid 2014. Thanks to those that have spread the word and love of books...and continue to invite others. Hooray for books!

• As of December 22nd, two challenge participants already read one book and reviewed it.  The reading of books isn't supposed to start until the 1st of January.  I love the enthusiasm!  (yes, they have to choose a new book for that category.)

PRIZES!:  In the past, I've always invited the first three finishers of the challenge (excluding bonus round) to choose a category for the next challenge. That offer still stands. This time I'm offering more ...prizes!

• 1st finisher (excluding bonus round) - small prize
• 2nd finisher (excluding bonus round) - small prize
• 1st finisher of BOTH rounds of books - grand prize!

If the grand prize winner is the 1st or 2nd finisher of the initial round, she'll just win the title of Grand Prize. The other two prizes will go to the next finishers in line.

Also, to claim a prize, all book selections MUST be over 200 pages. There are a few selected that are less, and I'm not too fussed about it. But, if you want a prize, I think it's fair to hold to the rules.

Most of all, this challenge is to encourage the love and reading of books through a supportive, encouraging, no-pressure group. But, hey, some fun prizes for those that have a competitive spirit can't hurt, right?

My preliminary book selections have already had a couple of changes (as you do).  Here is the updated version:
5pts - Read a book, any book that is at least 200 pages long. - The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
10pts - Read a book that begins with the letter "D". - Dancing with Myself by Billy Idol
10pts - Read a book with a four word title. - I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh
15pts - Read a book with one of the following words in the title: "Mother(s), Father(s), Son(s), Daughter(s), Child(ren). - Beautiful Boy: A Father's Journey Through His Son's Addiction by David Sheff
20pts - Read a book by amazon's top 100 authors from an author that you've never read before - The Silent Girls by Eric Rickstad (never even heard of him, but he's #47 as I type this)
20pts - Read a book set in Asia. - The Pearl that Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi
25pts - Read a book with a season in the title ("Summer", "Spring", "Winter", "Autumn", I'll even allow "Fall") - The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon
30pts - Read a book that will make you laugh from the attached list: - Kill Your Friends by John Niven
30pts - Read a book that is a friend or family member's favorite (or favorite book from another participant of this challenge)  - Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall (my college roommate and favorite friend, Katy, lists this as one of her faves)
35pts - Read a book published the year you were born. - Child of God by Cormac McCarthy

Although, a few more may change because 3 of them aren't available at any of the libraries I frequent.  I'm hitting my favourite second hand bookstores to see if I can find them.

Whew!  That was a long post.  If you're still with me, you rock!  Now...come rock this challenge with me!