Books: September 2008

Ah...yes, it's finally time (and I'm on time for once) for MY favorite post topic: books.

I have been hounded by my non-readin' friends (aka LUH-WHO-ZERS!) about why I even do these book posts. The first post I ever made on this blog was about books, and, by god, it will continue.

As I told my brother earlier, I do these posts because I couldn't have a golden statue erected in my honor. (Oh yeah...that's right. And yes, I'm still lobbying. Don't worry.)

Reading is a passion of mine, and I hope it stays that way until I go senile. (Many, many, many, many years in the future)

On to the goods:

The Friday Night Knitting Club (Kate Jacobs)
7/10

This is the ultimate chic lit. We see women from all walks of life, dealing with very real and gritty situations, coming to together for varying purposes for a weekly knitter's meeting in a quaint yarn shop run by Georgia Walker.

The story is centered around Georgia and her 12 year old daughter Dakota. (The other characters are developed fairly decently.) Georgia is a single mom-prenuer who hasn't had contact with Dakota's father since she told him the pregnancy news. Her struggles have made her tough and savvy as she finally finds herself on solid ground. To Georgia's dismay, one day while at her shop, a ghost from the past appears--Dakota's father.

THOUGHTS: This was the first chick lit I have read since The Notebook (had to read it after the movie came out). I am not a big fan of chick lit because it usually has way too much drama, way too descriptive sex, and little depth. This novel pleasantly surprised me. (I originally picked it up because I am an avid knitter.) It was entertaining, witty, and had great plot twists. I recommend this to any gal who is looking for a good read.

NOTE: this is a stand alone novel

Dragonflight (Anne McCaffery)
7/10

Teaser: A young woman seeks to claim her place in the country that betrayed her. Little did she know that fate had other plans for her. She finds herself away from her home country and in the company of dragonriders. She is to be the new weyrwoman, and raise her dragon to be the mate to the leader. It seemed simple, but, yet again, this strong-willed woman's fate would never let it be so linear. The structure was about to get an overhaul.

Thoughts: So a friend of mine has been hounding me to read these books (Dragonriders of Pern) for a Loooooonnnngggg time. So as I am running out of things to read (and money to get more to read) I thought I would oblige him and take a shot at them. From what I am told Mrs. McCaffey has more fantasy lit cred than Piers Anthony, so I had to finally try it.

I won't lie; I hated this novel the first quarter of it. Perhaps it was the 1960s syntax or the complicated world, but it just didn't have that magic for me. Once the world became clearer to me, I actually enjoyed it, and what a genius imagination this author must have! I would have never thought that concepts like this could have come out of the 1960s.

For genre it was (classic, epic fantasy), it was brilliant, but I gave it a 7/10 because I am just not a huge fan of this style of fantasy. It's a little too dry for my soap opera-y side, but I can clearly see why so many people have fallen in love with this series. Who knows, maybe in the future I'll conquer the rest of this series. I would almost bet on it at my readin' pace.

NOTE: this is the first novel of the Dragonriders of Pern series

Magic Bites (Ilona Andrews)
6/10

Teaser: Kate Daniels is a self-proclaimed hard ass living in an alternate world Atlanta. She doesn't have a soft bone in her body, and it makes her a damn good mercenary. For this first adventure, her guardian is found murdered, and she requests the help of several local supernatural factions to get to the bottom of it. She finds herself entwined not only in a savage murder case, but also in the politics of the local shapeshifters.

Thoughts: Well, I could never call this a piece of genius or great literature, but dang was it entertaining. It was like watching one of those fantasy shows on TV. If you look at it just as a entertainment piece and easy read, it succeeds. It is simple. There are no complicated characters or plots lines, and everyone adheres to a stereotype. That being said I think I am going to order the next one. Reads like this are perfect in the morning over coffee, or as a great substitute for TV. I mean I am already caught up in the potential love story (they get me every time dag nabbit).

Note: This is the first book of the Kate Daniels series.

Cast in Courtlight (Michelle Sagara)
6.5/10

Teaser: As the Hawks are busy preparing for a huge festival to take place, Kaylin is stuck learning magic from a dragon with no sense of humor. She finds it boring and over her head. Her boredom doesn't last long, though, as she finds herself swept up deep into the ancient Barrani high court. A Lord of the Court seeks her help and grants her privileges despite her being marked by the outcaste lord Nightshade. All these "privileges" come with a price as she finds herself faced with new problems and the dark ghosts of her past.

Thoughts: I was "iffy" about this series after the first book, but I found it entertaining so I thought I would give it a try. After I finished reading it, I thought that it was okay.

Problems: One of my main problems is that some of the characters are weak, flat, or annoying, namely the main character. Call it preferences, but I like a strong, well-meaning, complex, ever-ready main character. This main character is ignorant, naive, stupid, unyielding, narrow-minded, and self-centered. Maybe the author is gearing up for a huge character growth in her, but now it is just annoying. The pace is strange, and I found a lot of the humor predictable, and not funny.

Kudos: A few of the minor characters are brilliant, deep, and mysterious--Nightshade, HawkLord, Anteela, and Catti. Some pieces of the plot are delicious and are frequent enough to keep you hooked. The story is revealed slowly and not too rushed.

The verdict: What can I say, I am a sucker for entertainment. I prefer a good entertaining book over TV, so I will continue with this series at least for the next couple books. Hopefully, by then, I will finally get a feel for this author's style and flow.

NOTE: This is the second book of Elantra series.

Fire Study (Maria V. Snyder)
6/10

Teaser: Yelena is back as the liasion between Sitia and Ixia, that is until someone or something drives the council officially against her and sends her running back to Ixia with her brother Leif in tow. Will she keep her neutral ground as she seeks to clear the new obstacles in her way? Or will she find her self on the wrong side of her comrades? All the while Yelena is discovering that her magic is more powerful than anyone could have imagined and that her capabilities are endless and terrifying.

Thoughts: I was very excited to read this conclusion to the trilogy. I was hoping for a blast. I did think it was entertaining, but it most certainly did not live up to the first two novels. Some parts were wonderful and others I found myself getting annoyed. We did get to see what happens to certain characters, and even get a peak into their future, but other characters who were important in the previous novels become lost and many never develop.

All that being said, it was entertaining. It was a nice, easy read. A good TV substitute, but nothing spectacular. Though, I still hold hope that the author will continue this story; there is genius waiting to explode.

NOTE: this is the third book of this trilogy

An Ice Cold Grave (Charlaine Harris)
7/10

Teaser: Harper and Tolliver are in the Carolinas in the cold, bitter winter as a last ditch effort for the local police department to find out what has happened to a mess of teenage boys. Could it be a serial killer, or something even more twisted? Also, what of Harper's developing feelings for her stepbrother?

Thoughts: There were a lot of major changes to the flow of the story in this novel. I'm not sure I liked them. Yet again, another one of Ms. Harris' books have turned a little "romancy" for me. It is still very entertaining and I look forward to reading more in this series. Overall, it's still good, but not as good as it was at the beginning.

NOTE: this is the third book in the Harper Connelly series

Cast in Secret (Michelle Sagara)

8/10

Teaser: Kaylin is back and surrounded by trouble and drama once again. Only this time she doesn't find herself thrown into the middle of the High Caste Barrani, but rather the telepathic Thalani who have plagued her before. Kaylin's task begins as a small Thalani child comes to her in a "vision" and speaks nothing but her name. Kaylin puts aside all of her differences and focuses on helping the child.

Thoughts: Finally, a gem in this series. I absolutely loved this installment of this series. The characters were better developed, more human, and a tad bit funny. The story was also easier to follow and much interesting and suspense building. Just as I was about to throw down this series, I find myself attached to it for the long haul.

NOTE: this is the third book of the Elantra series

The Sleeping God (Violette Malan)
7/10

Teaser: Dhulyn is the only survivor of her massacred clan. Parno is a cast out high nobleman. What the two of them have is common is that the both left their pasts behind and became Mercenary brothers who are forever partnered.

Thoughts: I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was a good ol' mercenary, D&D-type adventure. The characters are very interesting to watch. (Or read rather, well at least no dice rollin', eh?) It kept me reading until the wee morning hours. I can't wait to read the next one to better get a feel for this series.

NOTE: this is the first book in the Dhulyn and Parno series

Fall is here!!! Wrote a poem 'bout it, here it goes!

Do a dance, Do a dance!!!!

So y'all know I had to post on the first day of fall (autumn for you snooty people, ha!). It is my favorite season of the entire year! The colors are gorgeous, the weather is gorgeous, and I get to cover my stained, holy tees with my snazzy jackets so I'm gorgeous!!

I always try to do something special to celebrate this day, (usually involves me, my close friends, Pretty Woman on VHS, and Mr. Zinfindel) so this year I decided to do something I have never done before. (Now don't you get excited; I am not the daring and adventurous type. Think small town country girl exciting that doesn't involve farm equipment or hay, HA!) ....... I forced myself to write an edited poem. (I warned you it was lameness on a stick, huh?)

The big deal about that is that I have never sat down to write anything recreationally. It always just comes to me (not like "spooky" "hoodoo"comes to me either) and I write them start to finish with no editing without even really knowing what I wrote until much much later. (When I actually have time to fracking read it) My brother has renewed my desire for poetry by showing me some of the cool stuff he has written over the years. (I know! There are two people where I live that are scholarly. Y'all non-rednecks better watch out; I dare say that I'm about to shatter a stereotype all over ya!) It is also really nice that there is finally someone in my inner circle that can actively discuss poetry. (You rock, bro! -in surfer voice- Dad gum good poet too!)

Okay, I'm babbling....Onward to the poem (let's see how this methodology worked; let's hope it ain't crap)

Rhythmic Autumn Hue

I slowly draw in deeply my breath,
Channeling the energy laid out before me,
Its warmth is ever intoxicating,
Allowing me a slice of the eternal joy.

I carefully open my heavy laden lids,
Scene grande, vast, before me bursting full of all
Colors, sounds, textures, of life,
It brings forth inspiration by divine call.

My heart begins to flutter overwhelmed,
Lifelong personal questions come out in bright,
The ones who tug constantly without rest,
In this grande Portrait the answers are in sight.

A cool breeze then plays at my features,
Welcome after the long liv'ed phase's heat,
The world is again turning its wheel,
Ever tuning its life into the new found beat.

The green, luscious sea will vanish soon as well,
The perfume gifted by these colors will die,
All these magical elements born in view,
Will wither under my heavy lidded eye.

Through the deadly withers the energy stays,
Its light will cast a different decadent hue,
As it slowly begins the painting of new notes,
Ever waiting to showcase its Portrait beat new.

To have us meekly come, as now am I,
As I revel in this now buzzing, chirping, green,
To return in time to this very high ledge,
And gaze down to take in the beauty to be seen.

The new rhythm will crunch, sway, and hoot,
The bright, green paints will be then covered with reds bold,
The trees will be gifted with rich gold jewels,
So before death their greatest beauty we can behold.

But the world again calls me back down,
Away from this grande, breathtaking magical scene,
Back to exhaust, rings, beeps, and pavement grey,
From the most colorful, inspiring place I've been,
Back to the dictating words of the narrow,
I'll soon return to break from that world's cold routine.

----> September 22, 2008


The only thing this has in common with any of my other works is that it is rhythmic. (I can't do non-prose without a back beat; the musician in me won't allow it.) Who da thunk! This pretty stuff came outta me, ha! No death, war, angst, or political statements. I didn't know it was possible. I'm gonna go buy a frackin' lottery ticket, shoot.

Oh well, time will tell if it is good. (I will be running to everyone to ask opinions)

Writing poetry without peaches,
Jenn Jenn

Books: June - August 2008

Boy, did I go on a book spree?! (22 books in 3 months, holy rice cakes!!) I blame it on being seemingly perpectually ill (allergies, stomach virus, flu, YOU NAME IT, ha!) the past 3 months (and insomnia didn't help either, HA, HA!). Sorry I got behind a little bit here. I will try to keep it month by month (thanks for the emails asking about the book review; y'all are my favorite people today). I always love hearing feedback, be it good or bad. (Though, if it is bad, be mature and don't throw f-bombs. F-bombs are the de-bil. Well, unless you sharing 'I hate the world' time with friends, heh.)

A new feature I have added is that the titles are linked with the Amazon.com page. (Well, since I take all my cover images from there anyway. Cough...)

So, without further ado, here is the book review for June - August 2008:

The Name of The Wind (Patrick Rothfuss)
10/10

In a quaint town, that gets next to no visitors, there stands an inn whose innkeeper has hair the color of fire. He acts as a wonderful bartender and has one bumbling worker that is also his apprentice. Life is slow, full of routine, and stagnate for this innkeeper until a scribe happens upon some trouble on the road. Fate then places the scribe at a room at the inn, and the secrets begin to glow with a resonance of stars in a clear sky.

Our simple innkeeper is not at all who he appears to be, and the scribe has fallen into a lucky break if he can convince him to allow his story to be recorded. The innkeeper struggles with the prospect but reluctantly agrees to share on, strange conditions. So over the next three days, the tale of the great Kvothe will finally be recorded.

THOUGHTS: I cannot say enough good things about this novel. It is perhaps the best novel I have ever read. (If the next two in this series are a fraction as good as this one, I could die happy.) It is smart, witty, original, gritty, and rich. It throws away all of those old fantasy novel cliches (and even successfully pokes fun at them) and busts through with what I hope will be the new age of fantasy. The characters are deep and complex, the plot takes delicious turns that leave you engaged and always guessing, and tone is very readable and personal. I could go on forever about this novel, but let's just say I'm pretty sure this will be my pick of the year and maybe all time.

NOTE: This is the first of the series

Fearless; Courageous; Valiant (Jack Campbell)
Average 6/10

I actually started my journey into the world of books with a space military opera (Robotech series, baby!) so I was excited to delve into these after reading the reviews and the plot teasers.

The story is interesting, but I found the characters flat and their speech redundant. I counted some phrases that were in there that Jack Geary (main guy) says and does 10 times! And the wording never changes! It was just like he copied and pasted on a word document.

These problems were minimized in the 4th novel (I had to force my way through 2 and 3), and the plot finally begins to thicken and the character came alive.

I will finished this series because there are only two books left, and I am dying to know what happens to a couple of the characters, but overall if I knew the breadth of the novels before a read it (like that's possible! HA!), I would not read them.

Recommended for: space opera fans and guys looking for an entertaining and simple read

NOTE: These are books 2-4 of the series

NOTE: these are part of a seriesThe Road (Cormac McCarthy)
7/10

TEASER: This is a story set in a post-apocalyptical America that has been torched several years hence. A father travels with his son in search of the 'good people' and security for his son. (Or at least a lessened risk of starvation).

THOUGHTS: What can I say? This was unlike any novel I have read in recent memory. Did I like it? I'm still not sure. Could I have done without it? Certainly. Did it enrich me in some way? Absolutely.

The way the man acts toward his boy is heartwarming, to say the least. I found myself welling up at times (not an easy feat, I tell you). Unfortunately, that is all there is to the book. It was a short read that took me a couple hours to read and never pulled any twists.

Was it a good story? Yes. Did it do anything outstanding for me? No. I would probably read it again just because it is like a gory Lifetime-network movie in a compact, simple package (well, minus all the trysts, heh).

Living Dead in Dallas; Club Dead; Dead to the World, Dead as a Doornail, Definitely Dead; All Together Dead (Charlaine Harris)
Average Overall: 7/10

So, what can I say? I talked about reading the first of this series in May. I enjoyed it so much I decided to continue with the second through the seventh books in the series. (I'm waiting for the eighth to come out in paperback.)

Pros: good, solid southern humor, entertaining characters, easy-to-read, nice plots, reads like a real conversation (well minus the supernatural bits...well, unless you're into to that sort of thing :) )

Cons: a little too much romance for my taste (though this could be a good thing for you), a few inconsistencies between novels (nothing major), short read (takes me about 2 hours per book)

In summary, despite the few cons about these, I am totally hooked on them. They are some of the most entertaining novels I have read. And really, who doesn't like the main character to be a underestimated small town southern girl with the strong personality to match? I was afraid that I would hate these novels, because I CANNOT stand Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but I was pleasantly surprised in that it was nothing like it.

NEWS: this book series is being made into an HBO series called TrueBlood. Check it out here.

NOTE: these are the 2-7 books of the series

Cast in Shadow (Michelle Sagara)
6.75/10

TEASER: The world is split into two major parts--the law enforcement and the outcaste fiefs. The laws of the land are enforced by animal tribes (Hawks for info gathering, wolves for footwork, etc.), and the fiefs are full of orphans and chaos. Within all this, a lowly fief orphan is taken in by the hawk lord because of interesting markings that have appeared all over her body.

Fast forward 7 years to when the breadth of the novel takes place, and this orphan, now all grown up, has a spot in the hawks, a strange power, and a chip on her shoulder the size of a crater. She is given an assignment to investigate a series of ritual murders out in the fiefs and finds her self being forced to partner with an aloof dragon and a ghost of her past for whom she hates with a fiery passion. Let the games begin!

THOUGHTS: Now, I would not put this in the category of great novels, but I have to say it was very entertaining. (I already ordered the next 2, heh). It isn't anything other than what it claims to be--an interesting fantasy-adventure set in a fantastic world.

NOTE: this is the first of the series

Poison Study; Magic Study (Maria V. Snyder)
Average: 7/10

TEASER: Yelena, who has been imprisoned with a life sentence for murder, awaits her execution. The day finally arrives, but instead of a quick end to all her suffering, a choice is handed to her. She can chooses a quick execution, or she can choose to become the General's poison taster which could be a slow agonizing death.

THOUGHTS: I admit it...I actually bought the first one of these (Poison Study) for the pretty cover. (Grrr...at those marketers again). I was pleased to find a very entertaining fantasy/action/romance. The idea of the world is interesting (two main lands: North (Ixia, a communist-like, militaristic land), and the South (a lax jungle land where magic is prevalent)). The main character is also very fun (she is a bit of a 'mary sue', but I like her, so that's okay in my eyes). The romance is nice and thrilling (no harlequin like scenes, thank god!).

The plot is nicely paced, easy to understand, and still has enough surprises and twists to keep your interested peeked. Overall, this was a nice all around adventure.

NOTE: these are first and second of the series

Grand Ellipse (Paula Volsky)
6/10

TEASER: As two countries are on the brink of war, a great race is being held in which the winner gets an audience with the king of the 'outcast' country. A anthropologist (profession that sickens her traditional parents) gets approached to do the race. Her audience with the King could prevent a war. She reluctantly agrees and boards the first ship to start the race. There, she runs into someone who makes her blood boil--her pompous, traditional ex-fiance.

THOUGHTS: This was the first 'steam-punk' novel that I have read in a ways. The cover and the plot teaser caught me. (Dang them marketing peoples!) It had a pretty good plot, but all the long country names and such confused the snot out of me. I know that doesn't bother some people, but when you have 50 made up words in one paragraph it irritates me. I feel like I am back in history class and need to make an outline or relationship diagram to figure out the significance in what the freak just happened. (whoa, we'll stop this before a rant starts...heh).

The characters, albeit a little cliche, were great and entertaining. I always love a lead female who battles some bit of the societal constraints on her. The love story was very entertaining as well as the ideas of the "race around the world", but most things just didn't meet their full potential, I fear.

All in All, an average novel with sparks of genius.

Shakespeare's Landlord; Shakespeare's Champion; Shakespeare's Trollop; Shakespeare's Counselor (Charlaine Harris)
7/10

Lily Bard makes her living by cleaning houses in the small town of Shakespeare, Arkansas. She isn't your ordinary maid. She works out religiously and takes karate several times a week from a master. Underneath it all are scars etched in her skin from her past in Memphis that made worldwide true crime news. With all this, Lily has become one tough 30-something and knows how to take care of herself. As she finally starts getting a routine together in Shakespeare, she finds herself swooped up into town drama--especially murder.

THOUGHTS: These are very entertaining, short reads. The novels are a mix of romance, crime drama, and sitcom.

NOTE: these are books 1-2; 4-5 of the series

Grave Sight; Grave Surprise (Charlaine Harris)
8.5/10

Harper Connelly didn't get dealt a good hand growing up. And to beat all, she was struck by lightning as a teen inside of the family trailer. She survived, but with a stranger than strange side-effect (other than the usual leg aches, muscle weakness, and anxiety), she can find corpses.

Going on the road with her step brother Tolliver as her manager and caretaker, she has made quite a business off of the gift/curse. Families of missing people often hire her to find a body for a fee. Of course, her 'business' attracts the sneers of skeptics and the intolerant alike, and these become some interesting obstacles for her and her brother to overcome.

THOUGHTS: After having read many of Mrs. Harris' novels, I find that this series is my favorite. It is much more psychological and less 'romance novely.' The main character has to get out of her troubles without super strength, supernatural aids, or murder. She has to use her brain. Also, the dynamics between Harper and her step brother are very complex and interesting.

NOTE: these are books 1-2 of the series

The Lies of Locke Lamora (Scott Lynch)
8/10

TEASER: How much trouble can one scrawny homeless orphan cause? Too much for anyone but a master trickster who parades himself as a blind prophet. He decides to buy the orphan with a death mark on him. The death mark, given by the leader of the non-royalty, means that if the orphan acts up in the least he could be killed without consequences or questions. So the prophet takes the little orphan, Locke, under his wing and into his brotherhood, the Gentlemen Bastards, to develop his trouble into invaluable skills. Fast forward several years, and Locke and his 'brothers' of the Gentlemen Bastards are the most successful tricksters in the city, and fortunately they are the only ones in on the knowledge--until a man who calls himself the Grey King decides to shake up the structure of the system.

THOUGHTS: I actually started out hating this book the first fifth of the way through. It was very hard to understand and plot lines were popping out everywhere. (As you may have guessed, I read for...LEISURE, not brain exercises.) I almost put it down and cut my losses.

Then, like it was a different novel altogether, it became wonderful. Think of Ocean's Eleven, but deeper, smarter, and more interesting. The world that Scott Lynch has created is very interesting; and he isn't afraid to place REAL obstacles and tragedies in the main characters' ways. (My favorite thing about any author...)

It was also nice to read a 'masculine' (not about clothes, love, or sex) novel done right. We get introduced to beyond witty and intelligent partners in 'crime' who have formed a life long friendship (reminiscent of the westerns my dad watches, or military mates). The pace is wonderful, and the humor is ACTUALLY hilarious.

NOTE: this is the first book of the series

Turkey Meatloaf...

Well, I have been in my laboratory (make sure to pronounce the British way, now...), otherwise known as the kitchen yet again. Now what I am about to say may come as a great shock to my fellow Southerners, so prepare yourself...

I had never had meatloaf...

Yes, I said it! The smell of the crispy catsup, the appearance of kibble, and the smell had always turned me away.

That is until I started this cooking spree of mine. The other day I woke up and declared, "I will make meatloaf, and I will make it on the cheap and have it be healthier." (I seriously declare this stuff. You could probably blame on my years in college studying the Japanese culture, hah! Or perhaps the fact that I'm just a big ol' dork sometimes. heh.)

So here is what came out of it. IT WAS SO GOOD! We scarfed it down! (This is evident in that by the time I got my camera out, there was only one slice left.) I have propped the door right open for meatloaf now!
Turkey Meatloaf

Yield: 6-7 slices (about 1.5 inch thick)
Time: 1hr 30minutes (prep and cook)

Ingredients:

1 - egg, beaten
2/3 cup - milk
2 tbs - Worcestershire sauce (10 small shakes)
1 cup - crushed crackers
1/2 cup - chopped onions
1 teas - salt
1/2 teas - sage
1/2 teas - basil or rosemary (optional)
1/2 teas - pepper (5 or so good cranks)

1.5 lbs - ground turkey (you could also use beef)

SAUCE:
6oz - tomato paste (the little bitty can of it, you could also sub 1/4 cup - catsup)
3 tbs - brown sugar
1.5 teas - ground mustard
1/4 teas - ground nutmeg

Instructions:

Take the first set of ingredients (all before the meat) and combine them in a large bowl. I usually do dry ingredients, then add the wet. Then, take your thawed out meat and sprinkle over top of the mixture. Then, with a spoon (or your washed hands) combine the meat well with the mixture.

Get an ungreased loaf pan (about 9in x 5in x 3in). Put the meat mixture into the pan and pat it flat. Leave it uncovered and BAKE at 350 degrees for 50 minutes.

For the sauce, combine the 4 ingredients and mix well. After the loaf has baked for the 50 minutes, spread the sauce evenly on top. BAKE the loaf (with the sauce on it) for another 15-20min (at the same temperature). Make sure the meat is cooked through when you are done. (You can either just cut a slice and see, or use a meat thermometer in the middle. It should read 160 degrees.) Let it cool about 20 minutes before you chow.

Macross is back in full force!

Though anime is not as big a part of my life as it was in my younger days (not so long ago, mind you!) When a new Macross (or Robotech) comes out, I drop everything and eagerly await releases! For the 25th anniversary of the Macross franchise, the makers have given us a special treat: a brand-new updated series called Macross Frontier. It actually ties back all of the other macross (right down to Claudia's famous pineapple-upside cake!) For the few fans that read this, I found a vid on youtube.com that helps bring everyone up to date, and it reminds everyone of all the other works in this franchise. It was released as a pre-Macross Zero documentary. Enjoy!



But if I have to hear "Ai wo oboete imasu ka" (Do you remember love?) one more time, I might actually hope for "My Time to be a Star" to play (no, no not that bad... never.)

Peace without robot, alien peaches.
Jenn

Family Vacay (We LIVED!)

I went on a family vacation! (...I know! I couldn't believe it either.) It was nothing exotic (aka. too fancy and outrageously expensive, THANK GOD!), but it was nice to change pace for a bit. I went with my bro, my niece, and my nephew.

We had fun times, bitchy times, and silly times and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Vacation picks can be found: here, here, here, here, oh and over HERE.

Peace to all (but death to peaches)
Jenn

Blueberry Delights

Sometimes I scare myself! Okay, so the other day I woke up with the thought "I WILL LEARN TO MAKE HOMEMADE MUFFINS AND FRUIT PIES TODAY". I even took it a step further and picked the frackin' blueberries outta my own yard. (TAKE THAT MARTHA! just kidding, I <3 you, but your crap's too expensive, girl......yeah, like I know her, HA!).

I was actually surprised at how well the dishes came out. (Seeing as that I have never even eaten a fruit pie in my entire life, have only made packet muffins, and made everything healthy...I am going to buy a lottery ticket.) So here's the recipes. They are my adaptations from the 1986 Betty Crocker Cookbook. (Oh, yeah...)

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

3/4 cup milk
1/2 olive oil
1 egg
2/3 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup white flour
1/3 cup splenda
3 teas baking powder
1 teas salt
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

YIELDS 12 muffins. Mix everything but the blueberries in a bowl using a big spoon (the muffins won't be fluffy if you use a mixer...). Next, pour the blueberries over the mixture and fold them into the batter. Using an ice cream scoop (the squeeze release kind, or any big spoon, but ice cream scoop is the definite best), place the batter into 12 greased muffin hole (cupcake pan). Bake on 400 deg. for about 18 minutes or until golden on top.

VARIATIONS I HAVE TRIED...

Cranberry Orange Muffins: Instead of blueberries, put one cup of craisins, or fresh cranberries, and 1 heaping tbl of orange zest.

Banana Nut : Instead of blueberries, put 3 mushed up bananas and a 1/2 cup of chopped nuts.

BLUEBERRY PIE (9 inch, 2 crust)

1/2 cup of splenda
1/3 cup wheat flour
1 teas cinnamon
4 cups blueberries (fresh or thawed)
1 tbl lemon juice
1 tbl butter

Prepare Pastry (recipe below, or buy a crust). Mix splenda, cinnamon, and flour together. Stir in blueberries. Turn into pastry-lined pie plate. Sprinkle with the lemon juice. Dot the top with the butter (divided it up and drop it on top of the blueberry mixture.) Cover with the top crust and cut small slits in it. Seal and flute.

Bake at 425 deg. or until the crust browns and the juices start bubbling to the top. About 35 min.


PIE PASTRY (this is for one crust; you will need to do this twice for the above pie)

1/3 cup plus 1 tbl olive oil
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 teas salt
2 to 3 tbl of cold water

Mix together first 3 ingredients well. Add water a tablespoon at a time until you get a managable dough (may have to add flour if it gets too moist). Dough should clean the side of the mixing bowl. Roll dough out on a floured surface, and flatten until desired size is achieved for pie crust.

I Feel Crispy!

...WELL MORE LIKE BACON! When a vegan/vegetarian/PETA dude comes up to me when I am eating pork and sneers "Do you know what they do to those poor pigs?" I can finally say, "Yes...sucka," and show them my back.

Sizzle...Sizzle...Peel...Peel (think of the dog in the beggin' strips commercials...)

Oh, I guess I should explain further (yeah, I forget that sometimes.) I went to the tanning bed (affectionately: lay-n-bake, lie-n-fry, sun bun, and the bronzing dome) for the first time since high school (-cough- it's been a little while).

I marched into the new salon here in town confident in my skin's freakishly un-burnable characteristics (I am always out in the sun, though I am destined to be pasty...ALWAYS.) My skin's ego was even more present because of going with my always tanner (not bitter), experienced tanning bedder (still not bitter...) best friend. (I thought my skin could keep up...)

So I marched into my little cubicle and put on my Wal-mart intense tanning bed lotion and laid down to greet the bulbs. I decided to try to get some color on my stomach and back too. (My biggest mistake--that skin hasn't seen light since I was born. I still don't know what came over me, but I paid for it later. I swear I heard sizzles, HA!)

I meant to flip after ten minutes (like a bake potato, ya know?). Well, poor Jenn, lost track of time and didn't move for the whole twenty minutes. (Bacon! Bacon! Bacon!) It was a sneaky little snot too. I felt great for about half a day. Then the next morning I walked past my snazzy, dollar-store, crooked oscillating fan and felt the pain of hell. (Oh, I totally did get more religious after that too. ...you totally would too.)

Now, I just peel...

Can't wait to go back next week, HA!

Jenn--peached colored, but still won't eat peaches...

4th of July Lunch/Dinner

Sorry I haven't written in a bit. I have been sick as a dog eatin' crab grass.

So I had a nice 4th of July. It went much better than I expected (I had been sick for a week beforehand, I was hormonal, and hadn't slept in two days, HA! But we all survived. I didn't bite anyone's head off and I don't have grill marks on my face. So, SUCCESS!) I am absolutely thanking the Lord too that my food came out okay (or at least that I have family nice enough to say it was regardless, heee). I decided to make it ultra special (well, to me anyway) because everyone had not been together all at once for almost two years. So I hope I succeeded in everyone having a good time at least in some small way. (I take family VERY seriously. They'll tell you; I am like a scary redneck pseudo-godfather lady. Like Paula dean with a huge bat. I want everything to be perfect when it comes to family. They deserve it! -wave the bat and give a scary look-)

So anyway, I have been asked for a couple of the recipes, so I thought I would post them. I adapted them all (except the pie) to meet my needs (well, I ain't never been one for any type of rules). But if you want to see the originals I have them too. So here you go, free feel to email or call for any questions.

I wish I could remember where I learned to cook (up until a year ago I doubt the dog woulda ate my food happily, HA!) I guess I finally read that chapter of the lady manual. (Right, after the gotta love cheesecake chapter!) Or I got tired of sucky college-like food. (I am stubborn that way.)

Peace (and recipes with no peaches!)
Jenn

MAINS:

----->Tender and Tasty Pork Chop (adapted by moi from Taste of Home 2007)

1-2/3 cup of pineapple juice
1/4 cup of mirin (rice wine vinegar)
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
4 shakes soy sauce (3 tbl approx)
1 handful of chopped onion
4-10 clove of garlic minced (to taste)
10 shakes Louisiana Hot Sauce (about 2 teas)
1 teas ground cumin
1 teas pepper
2 teas salt
6 bone-in pork chops (about 3/4 in. thick)

In a big bowl combine all ingredients (modify quantity depending on the number of chops). Place chops in and seal with saran wrap. Leave for 2hours or until the next day in the fridge.
Drain and save enough marinade for basting. For grill: grill pork chops covered for 10 minutes on each side with med heat, or until thermometer reads 160 degrees. Baste as needed. For skillet: place chops in a covered pan (as many will fit) on low heat for 15 minutes on each side or until 160 degrees is reached. Or just cut one in half to be sure :).

---->Simple Shrimp Kebabs (from: the tangled mind of Jenn)

1 bag frozen (or thawed) jumbo shrimp, precooked with tail on
Bamboo skewers
1/4 cup of olive oil
2 teas pepper (or about 20 grinds)
1.5 teas of salt
optional: herb of choice (basil, rosemary, etc)

Thaw shrimp. Place 5 on a skewer (or less). Use other ingredients to make baste (well, it's a noun now people!). Grill: With Medium heat, place shrimp on top rack for 4 minutes on each side. Baste constantly.

SIDES:

----->Stuffed Grilled Zucchini (Adapted From: Taste of Home 2007)

4 medium zucchini
5 teas of olive oil, divided
2 tbl of chopped red onion (or 1/4 handful)
2 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs (or handful)
1/2 cup grated italian cheese (or parmesean will do)
1 tbl fresh mint (or about 6 large leaves) minced
1/2 teas salt
Parmeasan to sprinkle at the end

Cut zucchini in half length wise. With a spoon, scoop out the innards, and leave about a quarter inch of shell. Brush the shell with less than half of the oil. Take the pulp (or innards) and chop it. In a big skillet, saute the pulp in the remaining oil with the garlic and onions. After a couple minutes, add the bread crumbs and combine thouroughly. Cook until crumbs become golden brown.
Remove from heat. Stir in the cheese, mint, and salt. Spoon into the zucchini boats and sprinkle with parmesean cheese.
Grill: Grill covered over medium heat for 8-10 minute, or until zucchini boats become tender. Oven: Place boats on a pan and into the oven at about 350 degrees until cheese is golden and boats are tender.



--->Grilled Tossed Apple Salad (Adapted from: Taste of Home 2007)

4 Tbl olive oil
1/4 cup Orange Juice
1/4 white wine vinegar
1/4 cup mince cilantro
2 tbl of honey (or 2 good squeezes)
1/2 teas salt
1 teas chili sauce
2 minced garlic cloves
2 red apples
2 green apples
2 pkgs spring mix salad green
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup grated parmesean
Bamboo Skewers

Combine first 8 things in a large bowl. Set aside in the fridge. Slice apple into 8ths (or half wedges) and place on soaked bamboo skewers (or metal ones). Place apple kebabs in bowl with other stuff and turn to coat. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Drain apple and keep marinade for basting. Grill apples over medium heat on top rack for 5 min while basting frequently. Then turn and grill until golden brown.
In a large salad bowl, combine green, walnuts, and cheese. Add apples and toss. (May use some marinade for dressing).

DESSERTS:

------>Lemon Ice Box Pie (From: I have no idea)

1 graham cracker crust
8oz cream cheese
8oz lemon yogurt
1oz instant lemon pudding mix
8oz cool whip

Mix everything together. (Leave a tad of cool whip for topping.) Put it in the crust. Top with cool whip. Refrigerate for a least a few hours.

-------->Peanut Butter Squares (Adapted From: 1960's Betty Crocker)

1/2 cup Splenda (or Altern)
1/2 brown sugar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 All Natural Peanut Butter (or two big spoonfuls)
1 egg
1 cup of oats
2 packets of hot chocolate
1/2 cup white flour (not self-rising)
1/2 teas of baking soda
1/4 teas salt

In a bowl, put sugars and oil. Mix well. (I use just a spoon to mix.) Add peanut butter and egg. Mix thoroughly. Add cocoa, soda, oats, and salt. Mix well. Slowly add flour, and mix well.
In a greased medium size baking dish (glass preferred), spoon in mixture and flatten. Heat oven to 350. Bake for 17-20 or until top starts to get slightly brown. Let cool 30 minutes, then cut into squares and chow.

------->Cracker Jack Cookies (Adapted From: Allrecipes.com)

1 cup of olive oil
1 cup splenda (or altern)
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teas vanilla extract
1 cup white flour (not self-rising)
1 teas of baking soda
1 teas baking powder
1 pinch salt
2 cups oats
1-1/2 cups coconut
2 cups rice crispies
1-1/2 cups chopped peanuts

In a mix bowl, mix oil, sugars, egg, and vanilla. After mixing, add soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Slowly add the flour. Mix well. Add nuts and coconut. Mix well. Add oatmeal, mix well. Lastly add the rice crispies and mix. Try NOT to smush the cereal.

Drop dough by spoonfuls onto grease cookie sheets. Bake at 350 for 7-12 min or until cookies start browning. Let cool 15 min and EAT.

---->DRINKS:

Virgin Sangria Punch (Adapted from Southern Living Magazine)

1 can frozen fruit juice concentrate (raspberry and white grape)
1 qt. prepared and cooled sweet tea (w/ splenda of course)
2 cups red grape juice
1 lemon sliced
1 lime sliced
2-liter of diet orange soda

Put in all in a punch bowl over ice and enjoy.

Anime: Spring 2008

So, I have been asked and asked, "Jenn, what anime are you into these days?" "Jenn, any good anime out recently?" "Jenn, I'm still watching Akira (barf!), Ninja Scroll (airplane barf!), and Dragon Balls (mega-blonde, spiky barf of the devil!), help!" Well, dad jibbit, I decided to put down some recommendations so I can just go, "Visit the site, Ted!" (I don't really know a Ted.)

To be honest, I don't watch much anime anymore (about 2-3 hours a week max) so I refuse to watch crap. This rule basically leaves me, on a bad season, with nothing to watch (or I start fishing through the archives, nothing like Venus Wars to remind to remind you of technological advances in animation), and on a good season, I am always behind (it evens out).

Luckily for y'all, this season has some of the more interesting shows in a long while. (We are finally out of the trends that reaped with gay-ness, and are getting into some sweet genres)

Another note, I do not view anime as some exotic, underground form of media. That type of thinking frosts my hind-end. I see it as TV shows that have more leeway in story lines, because of the ability to draw in whatever the story needs. So if an anime director wanted to have Law & Order: Ice Skaters in Space, it is possible.

I also would never classify it as the same as a cartoon. They are both forms of animation, but quite different in execution. Bugs Bunny, Smurfs, and David the Gnome are cartoons. (kickin' cartoons!)

Enough of that...

Before I go into anime for the current season, I have to talk about a show from the Fall 2007 season--Spice and Wolf.

Spice and Wolf
For: Everyone
Eps: 13

I enjoyed this anime more than any other I can remember. It was brilliant! It was smart, unique, and unpredictable!

The story starts out as an expert merchant (I forget his name...) is going to buy wheat from a medieval English town during their Horo festival. Horo is a wolf who is said to reside in the last bunch of wheat to be harvested, and it is believed that this wolf is in control of how good the harvest will be. The merchant talks with the townies, load his wares, and heads away like any other day.

In a field he stops to rest; and to his surprise, he finds a wolf girl sleeping in his wagon. He is scared out of his period wear, and later comes to know that this is Horo, the wolf who at times takes the form of a young girl.

The merchant agrees to a deal with Horo that makes them companions for a long journey. Unfortunately, this poor merchant didn't know what trouble lay ahead of him, and how this wolf women would compound upon it.

-----------------SPRING 2008--------------------

Allison to Lillia (Allison and Lillia)
Eps: 26

This anime is based off of a light novel series titled Allison and also its sequel Lillia and Treize. (Which came out a few years ago) It is great for everyone (though I think the older you are the more you will like it).

I have never seen a show quite like this one. The beginning setting is that of two countries, Roxche and Sous-Beil, who have been at war for ages. Then, we meet Allison (a Roxche pilot) and her life-long friend Wilhelm (a studious scholar), who stumble upon a secret that may end the war. This is just the first of their many adventures.

The real treat of this show is the setting. The clothes and machinery (...etc.) are all set between the World Wars. It's brilliant! MY number one pic for this season! (I'm hooked bad...)

Kurenai (Kurenai)

Warnings: Mature/Controversial Themes

Kurenai Shinkurou is a dispute mediator (or can we say, leverage-er?). His newest and most dangerous, given to him by his mentor/boss Benika, is to protect and take care of a 7 year old named Murasaki Kuhouin. Shinkurou is a complex character and small layers of his personality are peeled back each episode. Also, the relationship between Murasaki and him is sweet, healing, and comical.

What attracts me to this one (I have thought long about this, because I didn't really know) is that the viewer is shown the unromanticized Tokyo. The characters are flawed and realistic. It is very gritty. Anyone above 16 years should check it out.

Toshokan Sensou (Library War)

This anime is so fascinating, and the plot is a bit off (like in a unpredictable way). The setting is contemporary in which The Media Act (act for the censorship and destruction of controversial medias) has pushed the Libraries to take a military approach to protect the freedom of the press. (Think Fahrenheit 411 minus fire plus guns and uniforms). The story begins as the main character (a girl in her early 20s, yes, her name escapes me too) is finishing her boot camp and is being considered as the first female member of the Special Forces group.

The characters are some of the best I have seen in a long while, and the story, I guarantee, is like none you have seen before. It is also nice to have a main character who is not high school age.

Macross Frontier
Warning: Vulgar Adult Male Humor, Suggestive Camera Angles

Here's one for the dudes (though I still watch it on principle). This is the newest addition to the Macross family. Honestly to me the story wasn't important (I would watch it for the mecha and fortress shots anyway...they are gorgeous!). But I'll give ya a teaser anyway (You're welcome!).

Our story starts with Alto (a 'pretty' descendant of a famous Kabuki/Noh actor, whom everyone calls 'Hime' or 'Princess'). Alto dreams of piloting a fighter and flying above the faux sky of Macross Frontier (the space colony). I think you can see where it is going... The cast is expanded upon with Ranka Lee (Pre-stardom Minmei incarnate), Sheryl Nome (famous singer that is involved in all the vulgar things in this show...the director must like her), etc. I'll give you a hint: love triangle (as if you Macross fans didn't see that coming. heesh).

Vampire Knight
For: Ladies 14+

Cross academy is an institution in which there is a day class (human) and a night class (vampires), but the day class has no clue about the existence of vampires. The academy was founded in an attempt to find a way for Vampires to live among humans and to develop blood alternatives. Enter Yuuki, a naive high schooler who is the chairman's daughter and has a strong bond to the head vampire in the school. Yuuki's life has never been simple, but it keep becoming more and more complicated as she finds herself in the middle of various struggles.

Ah...this is the anime to watch if you like the bishounen ('pretty boys'). The plot is predictable and definitely targeted to females. I recommend it because it is nice to have a show that allows you to watch it and get into the characters without having to develop a headache. All ladies should check it out!

---------------------------------------------------------

Other anime of note (if these aren't enough): Persona: Trinity Soul (Mecha, High Schoolers), Naruto: Shippuden (yes, it is still going), Nabari no Ou (Ninja, High Schoolers), Wagaya no Oinari-sama (Shinto, Slice of Life), Amatsuki (Ghosts, Meiji, Time Travel)


Now where to watch these: Crunchyroll.com streams tons of anime and Jdrama for free; there is also bit torrent (delete the files when the show is licensed) try: AnimeSuki and Baka-Updates

Happy times! (without Peaches)
Jenn

Books: May 2008

Before I begin, I would let to just make it clear what my number rating is. It is how much I truly got out of the book. That is to say, it is NOT a measure of how good a novel any said work might be. I honestly do not believe I am qualified to make such an assessment (nor do I really believe anyone else is.)

An author who has written a novel, been lucky enough to get it published, and have people all over the world read has in fact achieved a breathtaking accomplishment no matter what others think.

For example if I give a novel a 1/10, I didn't even waste space with putting it back on my shelf (it's off to charity, baby, for someone with a different opinion to read!) If I give it a 10/10, I will probably sleep with it beside my bed and meditate with it the meaning of life.

Also I have linked the book pics to the amazon page corresponding to each title (in case my reading bug is contagious, ha!)The Mask and The Sorceress (Dennis Jones)
5/10

This was my first time reading a 'traditional' fantasy novel in ages. It started off bumping and predictable, but then turned into something I truly enjoyed and would be happy to revisit in the future.
Even past the strange names, strange lands, strange theological traditions, and even the unique 'Oh, God' substitute that is characteristic of 'traditional' fantasies (in example, 'oh Allfather, what will Illarion do as the day of the great Lady approaches, and the Antecessor of Tubak is close to finding out his secret?), there was a wonderful protagonist and great evil villains who scooped you in and wouldn't let you move on. (This is actually Book 2 of the series, and I totally just found out, HA!)

Dead Until Dark (Charlaine Harris)
8/10

I knew I wanted to give this book a go from the moment I read the description/teaser. There something about a Vampire tale set in the deep south (with actually southern speech and traditions and blue collar culture) that I couldn't resist. Also, the main Vamp's name is Bill! Really, it would have been a shame for a readin' redneck such as myself to miss it.

It didn't let me down; it read so smooth, like a conversation around virginia slims and sweet tea on a front porch swing, that you could really picture the characters and hear their voices.
I recommend this novel to any girl/woman 16 years and older. Even if you don't like Vampire novels, you will like this one! (This is Book 1 of the Series)

Jack Campbell - Dauntless

7.2/10

I must admit that I picked this one up because I saw the words: "space", "military", "hero", and "combat" in the description. Being a long term fan of the Robotech novels (as well as Robotech/Macross animated), I had to pick it up.

I wasn't disappointed (except no Veritechs, but hey, maybe one day), the combat scenes were well described (like naval warships doing formations in the ocean), and the main guy was a likable 'tragic' hero.
I recommend this to anyone who is a fan of the 'space military' genre; it appears that this series is going to good places. (This is the first book of the series)

Groovy Baby!

Well, go get your aqua net, VO5 oil, and your hot roller set, because it is time to take it back.

Recently I came across one of my mother's old purse books from the 70's that shows the new hair trends for the upcoming season.

(Click pic to see the rest of the pages)

It makes me wonder about how people will look back on our trends 30 years from now! Hope it gives you a laugh!

Honestly what amazing me the most is the work that goes into this hair, so of these take hours to do in the morning. I would die! I do good to dry mine. Women of the seventies, you were strong. (and frackin' patient!)

Jenn

A New Type of Vegetable Garden

So, with the ever-rising produce prices and the larger need for fresh produce, we were given the last 'kick-in-the-butt' we needed to bring back our vegetable garden. (we haven't had one for over ten years!)

We decided to try a new approach that my dad has been wanting to do for years-- the upside-down hanging vegetable garden.Yes, those were once cat litter buckets. (Ha! No one can say cats are totally useless.) Oh if you are wondering, those poles are from a cedar that fell into the yard. (Resourceful, eh?) I was worried it might look really bad or tacky, but we have actually gotten good words about it. It looks way nicer than I ever thought possible.

So we started small just this year with peppers (green, yellow, red, and purple) and tomatoes. Hopefully, it will all work out. For me, this is my first time ever growing vegetables, so it should be interesting.

May the rain keep on coming!
Jenn

Limbs Happen...My Own Little Disaster

You know, as they say, limb happens.

But honestly, who woulda thunk that when I went to shovel soil from the compost heap in my backyard, I would come onto this...




Oh, yes this storage building was once about 3 feet taller (and about 500 lbs lighter.) Luckily this shed stores mostly are hardwood, so the wood is actually keeping it from looking like a total paper wad.

I don't know why but the picture makes me chuckle. Denial, perhaps? hehe

Now comes the figuring out of how to move a 500 lb limb without damaging the building further. Let the games begin!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all! Hope everyone can find time to be with their families today.

Books: January - March 2008

Sorry about the tardiness, but here is the next batch of books I've invested time in between January and March.

Island of Exiles (IJ Parker)
9.5/10

This is the latest book in the Akitada Sugawara series, and it was brilliant! For those of you (probably most), who haven't read this series by Parker, you should. I was afraid that these characters were gonna be one-dimensional or linear like so many others in this same genre. This book added an entirely new dimension to the characters. It has become my favorite so far because she strips the main character of all his possessions (including status and family) and allows us to see the deeper parts. Well, enough about that, just read them already, you won't be sorry!

Series order: The Hell Screen (release this June), Rashomon Gate, Dragon Scroll, Black Arrow, Island of Exiles (and hopefully a new one soon)

On a Pale Horse (Piers Anthony)
7/10

All righty then, this is a book I first read in 1996 when my brother recommended it to me. It is the first in Mr. Anthony's Incarnations series. I remember really digging it when I first read it. It has all those elements of, what I'll call, 'mythological contemporary fantasy sci-fi good vs. evil humor' story. I mean bravo to Mr. Anthony for thinking up some of these concepts around the 'office' of death. Basically this book is a good short read for practically anyone and it is all inclusive, so you don't have to read others in the series if you get tired of it. The bad points are that, to me, the characters' motivations and interactions seem forced and not logical at times. I hope to read it again in another 12 years and see how my opinion differs!

Grass for His Pillow (Lian Hearn)
7.5/10

This is the second book in the Tale of the Otori. For those older anime fans among you, this would be a good pick for you. (Or action-fantasy fans) I thought this one had some nice scenes, but in no way lived up to the first in the series. But dang you Lian Hearn, you've got me hooked and now I have to know what happens to the crazy tribesman Takeo. If you want adventure and romance told in a distinctly masculine way that isn't too complex, you will love this book. Bravo to the author also for not giving into the the expected, you truly never know where the fate of a character will lead. (Though, it frustrates me to no end, I love predictable happy times lol) Also another great surprise ending!

Brillance of the Moon (Lian Hearn)

7/10

This is the third book in the Tale of the Otori series. Tensions run high as Takeo tries to untangle his mixed up fates. I am not going to go into too much detail about this because if you have read the other two, you will read this one.

PIllars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
7/10

Ah, this is the first time I have attempted an Oprah recommended book. I thought, "Whoa Oprah is recommending historical fiction!" Boy, do I want my hours I took reading 85% of this back. Now, don't get me wrong, the author is genius in the way he ties every event and character together. He also isn't afraid to age his character or present their flaws, so YAY! It just wasn't my 'cuppa tea.' Again, don't get me wrong, this is a great novel and I believe many people would find it enthralling, but it isn't for the faint WAFF-y Oprah crowd.

I think the real theme for this book was 'the grey area.' To extrapolate, there is no true good or bad, there exists both in everyone. Follett shows the sides of humanity that we would all like to forget existed--our greed, wrath, selfishness, psychotic nature, etc. This story made me think and reflect more than any fiction I have read thus far. Some scenes literally made so angry and disgusted (at the characters' lack of scruples) that I had to fly through the next few pages to try to erase it from my mind. I was visibly shaken.

I hope this better explains why I think it is a great novel, but I will never read it again. I prefer my novels to give me that 'feel-good' escape from reality. No matter what happens I like to know that that character will turn out okay. Follett didn't give that fantasy instead he threw the harsh reality at us to remind us that we are no different in some areas as 400 years ago.

Bearing an Hourglass(Piers Anthony)
6/10

This second volume in the series has a totally different pace from 'On a Pale Horse.' The office of Time is much more complex (and will give you a headache if you try to understand all the details about). This one is much more sci-fi, so not as much my taste. But the character is very likable and made it worth the read, though I admit I skipped a few of the sci-fi scenes (they got monotonous).

The Sound of Waves (Yukio Mishima)
7.5/10

This read was actually very special to me. I originally read this book in the fifth grade (checked it out when I visited the High school library). It was one of the books that got me interested in Japanese language and culture. For years, I had forgotten the name of it (I only remembered the fish on the cover) until one day I happened on it on amazon.com while searching for another book. I ordered it immediately. It is a story set in the rural part of Japan (what we rarely hear about nowadays) in a fishing village. The character is a fisher boy at his coming of age who is the sole provider for his lower class family. He then by happenstance begins to like the town leader's daughter, but it only spells trouble as the other boys seem out to sabotage him. The imagery is beautiful, the characters are great, and the message is there. I highly recommend this to anyone 16 and up.

With A Tangled Skein (Piers Anthony)
8.75/10

This is probably my favorite of the entire Incarnations series. (Probably because it is less 'male' voiced) Fate is an office that requires three women or varying ages to fill it. In this volume, the author lets us go through a lot with the character throughout many years. (Don't want to reveal anything) The characters seemed much more real and not 'over-the-top' or 'always gorgeous or handsome.' If you are going to read just one, read this one. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to rereading this one in the future.

A Rose From Any Other...

Prying family tales out of my relatives is difficult and almost never succeeds. So when my dad told me the story behind this pink rose bush, it was beyond a real treat.

This rose bush has been in my family for over 30 years. I had always loved the blooms and was overly ecstatic when my father decided to transplant it outside my office window. I found it pretty, but that was the extent of it until my dad told me its history and how we acquired it.


One day my father started griping about the endless upkeep and tending to rose bushes, then he threatened to tear the two (we also have a red) we have in the front yard up and replace them with Knockouts. He then started the tale.

DAD: "Did you know that your mother's father gave me that rose bush, plunked it in a potato?"

ME: "WHAT?! What do you mean potato?"

DAD: "Well, we were up 'ere when we lived 'ere (my mother's parents' house), and her dad didn't have somethin' to give us for movin'. So he went out fron' and plum dug up this bush and stuck it in dad-blame potato so it would keep."

ME: "That sounds about right, huh?"

DAD: "I guess so, he told me to take good care of it, and I told him I'd plant it."

ME: "Well, now I won't ever let 'cha git rid of it, you know that right."

DAD: "Aw, shoot. I hope you just freed up time to tend it."

[NOTE: My dad has a thick accent, but he sounds like Norm Abram (Yankee workshop guy) next to me]


I picked to write about this because of spring being here and mother's day coming up. It has made me think about a lot, because before that was just a rose bush, but now it is something near and dear to my family, especially since it blooms every year around mother's day. (My mother passed over 15 years ago) It is pure living history! (oh yes, I am easily inspired.. hehe)

Hopefully, I can find out more and more stories like this one in the future.

Peace (with) OUT (peaches)

Jenn

Gloves for the Workshop and Range

So Recently my father has been complaining about how it is impossible to work out in the workshop (carpentry garage) and go to the rifle range with regular gloves. His main complaints were that you couldn’t feel your fingers to do anything. What he had been doing was taking one glove off at a time completely (which made it almost pointless to even wear them.)

So he put the challenge to me to make him some work gloves that didn’t have any fingers (because the half fingers are almost as frustrating), weren’t girlie in any fashion, had wrist cuffs that weren’t too tight, could fit in a front shirt pocket, and that could be taken off at a moment notice in case of anything.

Well I came up with these and he loves them! He ran off with them and I haven’t seen them since, but it looks like I’ll be making more from his buds.

Size: One Size Fits Most
Pattern: Improvised (email me if you want it)
Needle Size: US 8
Yarn: Lion Brand Jiffy (Oxford Grey)
Worktime: 30min - 1 hr per glove

Just a quick bit

While doing my periodic check on Robotech.com, I found this vid. Brings a grin to any fans' face.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs_l-kjfyso

It's a Lynn Kyle anti-war and Rick hunter PSA.

(Note: if you don't get this humor or know what I am talking about, GO forth and watch Robotech!)

Sorry, I'm not a web person (so couldn't figure out the vid embeding), but the vid is also on Robotech.com.

Peace without Peaches

A poem I found while cleaning...

Hello all, hope all is well.

I don't write poetry very often (about every 5 years really), so I was amazed when I found this poem I had written on the backs of a couple subway napkins this last november. I vaguely remember writing it, because it was at one of the worst points I have had in my life thus far. (Knock on wood.) Thankfully life is good now (and on the rise, baby!). Some people have been asking me to post some stuff, so I thought why not start with this one. Don't worry it's a rhyming one. ;)

Keep in mind that I am no poet (and I really know it -big cheesy guffaw-). When I write I sit down and write from start to finish without thinking (kinda freaky really) and then go back and see what I have written. Oh well enough blah-ing, here's the poem:


Charred

Simple as ray of sun,

Nothing wary this way come,

Light as air with things as this,

A constant state of bliss.

Years unstoppably pass,

Cracks in heart’s thin glass,

Worries fast, past and new,

A jagged phase made its due.

The gleeful sun is clouded now,

Life can’t seem to add to the low,

Aches weigh me down,

A fight is seemingly ever ‘round.

Everyday tighter is the bind,

Shorting my nerves and stealing my mind,

Suffering is the beam,

Fortune friends kill my esteem.

I claw and bleed to be on ris