Whisper1 (Linda's) Thread #5 of 2016 75 Challenge Group

I've done it again -- I've purchased more books in 2016 than I've read thus far. Perhaps if I collect mini editions, it would indeed remedy the space issue. Though, alas, my 63 year old eyes would not be able to read the content.

Happy New Thread, Linda.

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JANUARY 2016
1) Warm as Wool by Scott Russell Sanders
2) The Ghost of Nicholas Greebe by Tony Johnston
3) Homeplace by Cynthia Rylant
4) Albie's First Word: A Tale Inspired by Albert Einstein's Childhood by Jacqueline Tourville
5) The Floating House by Russell Sanders
6) Snowed in With Grandmother Silk by Carol Fenner
7) Toads and Diamonds by charlotte S. Huck
8) Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merian by Margareta Engel
9) Hansel and Gretel by Cynthia Rylant
10) Milly and the Mac'ys Parade by Shana Corey
11) The Raft by Jim LaMarche
12) P.Zonka Lays An Egg by Julie Paschkis
13) Lena's Sleep Sheep by Anita Lobel
14) Waiting by Kevin Henkes -- 2016 Caldecott Honor award
15) Apple Cake by Julie Pachkis
16) The Perfect Wizard, The Hans Christian Andersen by Jane Yolen
17) Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews
18) When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Munoz Ryan

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JANUARY 2016
1) The Disappeared by Kristina Ohlsson
2) The Taming of the Queen by Phillippa Gregory
3) Best Boy by Eli Gottlieb
4) Women I Have Dressed and Undressed by Arnold Scaasi
5) Poetry for Young People: Edgar Allan Ppe by Brod Bagert
6) Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
7) Jane Eyre Bloom's Modern Critical Interpretations by Harold Bloom
8) Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson Newbery Honor award 2016
9) Charles James: Beyond Fashion Metropolitan Art Museum by Harold Koda
10) April 4, 1968: Martin Luter King, Jr.'s Death and How it Changed America by Michael Dyson
11) Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

Favorite Illustrated Book of January 2016

Favorite Non Illustrated Book of January 2016

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ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN FEBRUARY OF 2016
19) Pals by Mary Engelbreit
20) Once Upon a Twice by Denise Doyen
21) Little Fir Tree by Margaret Wise Brown with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
22) Ain't Nobody a Stranger To Me by Ann Grifalconi
23) Albert by Donna Jo Napoli with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
24) The Elves and the Shoemaker by Jim LaMarche
25) Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena 2016 Caldecott Honor Award
26) A Child's Good Night Book by Margaret Wise Brown
27) Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse by Leo Lionni 1970 Caldecott Honor Award
28) Dream Animals by Emily Winfield Martin
29) The Rainbabies by Laura Krauss Melmed with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
30) Lost and Found: Three Dog Stories by Jim LaMarche
31) The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye by Jane Yolen
32) A Single Shard by Donna Jo Napoli
33) Ouch by Natalie Babbitt
34) Officer Buckle & Gloria by Peggy Rathmann

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN FEBRUARY OF 2016
12) Poetry for Young People: Emily Dickinson by Frances Schoonmaker
13) Zora and Me by Victoria Bond
14) A Song For Harlem by Patricia McKissack
15) Did You Ever Have a Family by Bill Clegg
16) Abby Takes a Stand by Patricia McKissack
17) Bonechiller by Graham McNamee
18) The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley Newbery Honor 2016
19) The Dreamer by Pam Munoz Ryan

Favorite Illustrated Book of February 2016

Favorite Non-Illustrated Book of February 2016

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ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN MARCH OF 2016
35) What To Do With a Box by Jane Yolen
36) Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange
37) Over-Scheduled Andrew by Ashley Spires
38) What Can You Do With an Idea by Kobi Yamada
39) Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems
40) Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson
41) Charley's First Night by Amy Hest
42) Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear by Mattick
43) In a Small, Small Pond by Denise Fleming
44) Can You Yawn Like a Fawn by Monica Sweeney
45) Fritz and the Beautiful Horses by Jan Brett
46) A Story For Bear by Dennis Haseley with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
47) Bug in a Rug by Melanie Watt
48) Strickly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev
49) Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson
50) Home by Carson Elliw
51) Otto The Owl Who Loved Poetry by Vera Kousky
52) Day Dreamers: A Journey of Imagination by Emily Winfield Martin
53) Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine
54) Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes
55) The Village of Round and Square Houses by Ann Grifalconi
56) The Carousel by Elizabeth Rosen with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
57) The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN MARCH OF 2016
20) Icons of Women's Style by Josh Sims
21) Nightbird by Alice Hoffman
22) 100 Dresses: The Costume Institute The Metropolitan Museum of Art by Harold Koda
23) Everything, Everything by Nicholas Yoon
24) We Are All Made of Molecules by Susin Nielsen
25) The Borden Murders: Lizzie Borden and the Trial of the Century by Sarah Miller
26) The Haunting of Sunshine Girl by Paige McKenzie
27) When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Favorite Illustrated Book of March 2016

Favorite Non-illustrated Book of March 2016

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ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN APRIL OF 2016
58) Hansel Gretel by Will Moses

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN APRIL OF 2016
28) A Wreath for Emmett Till by Marilyn Nelson
29) Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal by Jeanette Winterson
30) Dreamland by Sam Quinones
31) We Were the Kennedy's by Monica Wood
32) Getting Away With Murder by Chris Crowe
33) The End of Law: A Novel of Hitler's Germany by therese Down
34) Living Well With Chronic Illnes by Johanna Charnas
35) Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
36) Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement by Devery S. Anderson

Favorite Non-Illustrated Book of April 2016:


===========================
NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN MAY OF 2016
37) Death Be Not Proud by John Gunter
38) Orbiting Jupiter by Gary Schmidt
39) The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
40) Alice I have Been by Melanie Benjamin
41) Twain's End by Lynn Cullen

FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN MAY

============================================================

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JUNE
59) Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert
60) Shooting at the Stars The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
61) How To Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN JUNE OF 2016
42) Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade
43) Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
44) January First by Michael Schofield
45) I Captured the Castle by Dodie Smith
46) Giants The Dwarfs of Auschwitz by Yehuda Koren and Eliat Negev
47) Blue Willow by Doris Gates
48) Good Girl by Mary Kubica

If the books make you happy, get them! Life is too short.

Hugs!

Hi Linda, happy new thread my dear, I have read 44 books so far this year but have purchased 57 books so my TBR pile is still growing. Have a lovely weekend my dear, sending love and hugs.

Happy New Thread, Linda! Hope you have a good weekend.

Happy new thread, Linda. Your book buying looks quite restrained compared to many of your fellow LTers - me included.

Book buying keeps the ole ticker ticking. So keep it up, Linda! and Happy new thread!! :0)

Happy New Thread!!

Happy new thread! I've purchased more books this year than I've read, too. But at least most of them are eBooks and audiobooks so they don't take up space in my house.

Happy new thread dear lady.

I cannot remember when I last had a year I read more than I acquired. At least I am aiming for less than four figure additions this year!

Happy new thread! In your last thread, you mentioned reading more about the brothers Grimm. I've been eying The Brothers Grimm: Two Lives, One Legacy for a while now -- if I end up reading it, I will let you know what I think.

Happy New Thread!

I've acquired just a few more books than ROOTS I've read this year. However, I'm about wearing out my library card to do it. :-)

Here's the link to the Look article about Emmett Till

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/till/sfeature/sf_look_confession.html

The following letters to the editor section is chilling. Thank goodness murderers are no longer allowed to sell their stories! These two did so freely since the law against 'double jeopardy' protected them. The OJ Simpson trial is the first that I remember where the victim's family went after the murderer with a civil lawsuit after the legal proceedings declared the defendant not guilty.

Happy new thread Linda! I am so impressed with your books read list up top. Wow!! That's all I can say...Wow!! ; )

Happy new thread, Linda!

I'm late in reading it, but so glad that what Will had was not a stroke and treatment has brought him back to normal. The man I rent from had an incident where he just completely blanked out and forgot... a lot. Like, his kids names and where they lived or when he lived (we had moved recently). I forget the medical name for it, but apparently it can happen when stressed out and the likelihood of it happening again is infinitesimal. As time went on at the hospital, details started coming back to him and he remembers everything just fine. Still, very scary when it happened as his wife thought he'd had a stroke, too.

I absolutely loved Finding Winnie and enjoy seeing it on your top reads list. I loved Being Mortal and have had When Breath Becomes Air on my radar ever since.

Happy New Thread, Linda!
When in my adult life have I ever not bought more books than I've read? Owning books does make me happy, so I keep on and on.
Hope your weekend is restful and fun too.

Happy New Thread! If buying books makes you happy buy them!

Posted on my last thread, a gem, a gift of words from magicians_nephew (Jim). As I prepare for another spinal surgery, I think of this lovely poem from Jim:

I felt a rumble in my heart,
Over the mountains,
As the engine ate the spark,
Spitting out the miles.
Times when I tried to jump the track,
Weight of the world upon my back.
Still, after all is said and done,
This train still runs.

It doesn't matter where it's gone,
This train still runs.
And though the baggage weighs a ton,
We carry on.
Nothing is forever young and I'm not done.
This train still runs

Thanks again for this lovely outreach Jim!

Happy New Thread, Linda!

>19 Whisper1: "Like"

Happy new thread! Lovely poem, trains are such useful imagery for life aren't they?

Happy New Thread, Linda!

Happy new thread!

Happy New Thread, Linda! Hope you are doing well and the pain levels are tolerable. Fingers crossed, for my pal.

>1 Whisper1: Well, I've read 41 books since the beginning of the year; but I've acquired 55, and sent 24 off to new homes. So that's SOME kind of balance. I guess. If I could just get my husband to remove some of his old textbooks and technical manuals from the shelves (they're outdated and he'll never need them again anyway---even he admits it), I MIGHT have room for everything and get rid of piles that hide behind chairs.

Happy weekend, Linda.

Happy new week Linda!

Hello to all. Many thanks for visiting here. I haven't felt well these last weeks, and I haven't been as active as I'd like.

BOOK #37 Death Be Not Proud by John Gunter

Book #38 Orbiting Jupiter by Gary Schmidt


Gary Schmidt is one of my favorite authors. While this book lacked the depth of some of his others, still it is worth reading. In this tale, Schmidt beautifully handles the situation of young Joseph who is a very troubled teen. Fourteen years of age and a father of a baby girl, he also has a very long history of detention home incarcerating and inability to follow rules.

When a loving family in Maine decide to take a chance and bring Joseph into their home, for the first time in his life, he is exposed to a "normal" home life. The family is very understanding and patient with him. There is a wonderful way in which Schmidt shows the healing of interactions with animals. And Joseph develops a very tender relationship with Rosie the cow.

When Joseph shares the fact that he loved the girl he impregnated and that there is a little girl in the world as a result of their union. His main goal in life is to be with Jupiter.

Joseph has a lot against him, some of which is his fault, but the fact that he has a worthless, abusive father certainly is out of his control. Sociologists would note that if Joseph had a better upbringing, perhaps the stint in a detention home would not have occurred.

He is intelligent; he knows vulnerability and the ache that results from it; he could have a future if only he could put the bad pieces of life behind and sew a new patch of goodness in the tapestry.

My only quarrel with the book is that the foster family seems to be too perfect. And, the reality is that children that have long, deep scars, do not heal overnight.

Still, Schmidt does continue to shine, and his books are magical.

Oh Linda. Saturday's the big day, but if you aren't up to it, take the day off. There will be another sale in July.

I took a cue from you and read a couple of picture books Saturday.

>29 Whisper1: Sorry to hear you are not doing well, Linda. I hope that things improve soon.

Lovely new thread, Linda! I love the topper!

Hope you are feeling better soon.

Thinking of you, Linda. Gentle hugs.

Sorry to hear you're feeling worse than usual, Linda. Put the train in low gear and carry on as best you can. You can see I don't know much about trains, but I do like the imagery. *I think I can, I think I can*

Hello to all, and thanks for visiting here. My days are filled with work and doctor appointments in preparation for June 13th surgery. Next week, Will and I will stay overnight in Philadelphia near Thomas Jefferson hospital so that we don't have to travel early through lots of traffic. Wednesday will be filled with appointments starting at 8 am and ending at 4 p.m.

Life is stressful right now, but I still see the good in all. It was a lovely day today. The air was crisp, with a steady wind, but the sun was shining and everything was green and beautiful.

I apologize for not responding individually to all posts. Please know that I am appreciative of your visits here.

BOOK #39

The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

Review to follow.

Hi Linda! Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you. I hope you're able to rest well tonight for your busy day tomorrow.

Holding you in my thoughts.

Good luck, Linda. Sending lots of positive thoughts your way.

Hello Everyone...Thanks for visiting. I appreciate your kind words.

I paid a high price with increased pain, but I went with a co-worker to the Bethlehem Library book sale. Diane Keenoy, Bill (Weird-o) will meet there on Saturday. And, I was not surprised, but certainly delighted to see Diane in line, carrying a big bag of books.

I found eight children's books for $2.00
Butterfly House by Eve Bunting
How Does the Wind Walk by Nancy White Carlstrom
God Bless the Child by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog, Jr with illustrations of Jerry Pinkney
Halfway To Your House by Charlotte Pomerantz
The Field Mouse and the Dinosaur Named Sue by Jan Wahl
Clown by Quentin Blake
When Mama Comes Home Tonight by Eileen Spinelli
The Lion and the Unicorn by Shirley Hughes

And,
Gerrman Boy by Wolfgang W.E. Samuel
No Moon by Irene N. Watts
The Romanov sisters by Helen Rappaport
Personal History by Katherine Graham
Tudor by Leanda De Lisle
Katarina by Kathryn Winter

Nice haul, Linda!! I am sorry this is all getting to you. Hang in there and do what you can. I love the poem from Jim! The date is coming up soon. Hugs!

I know you will appreciate this...I did TKD today!!! First time in months. And didn't get hurt. : )

Kim, Congratulations. Thanks for your sensitive, kind message. I'm going throrugh a rough patch right now. Actually, there is some positive to it all in that I know I need the surgery and almost look forwarrd to it in the hope I can have relief from pain...after the recovery.

I hope today is a good one for you,

Its a struggle for you, but I think you handle it so well!
Sending comforting thoughts and
(((hugs)))

Hi Linda, a nice book haul there my dear but sorry to hear you paid a price with the pain but hopefully the surgery will give you relief from the pain my dear. Sending love and hugs dear friend.

Anita, You are such a kind, sensitive, loving soul. I hope to meet you one day!

Hi there John! Yes, the pain is a good thing actually because it confirms the surgery is truly necessary, and provides a light of hope that after the recovery I will be able to claim my life again without this degenerative disk disease defining me and my actions.

LIfe is to be enjoyed, even if it is only in the small things that bring happiness. Truly though, small things for me are so very meaningful. Tonight our two little neighborhood friends visited. We think of them as our grandchildren. They roledl in the grass, ate cheese sticks and ice cream cones (shared with Lilly), and play games with Lilly. They gently touch her backside and say "Tag, Lilly! You are it!" Lilly then proceeds to run in circles after them, barking along the way.

As we walked along the neighbor hood, holding hands, the youngest child, Kayla, age five, told us once again that she wishes she could live with us. She has a wonderful set of parents and a very happy home, still, she thinks living with us would mean constant coloring and playing and bowls filled to the rim of ice cream, as well as 9-5 cookie baking.

It was a lovely evening, the air was crisp and each day more perennials are pushing up through the ground. Oh, life is good...very, very good indeed.

Thinking of you, Linda, and wishing you all the best in your appointments next week.

>35 Whisper1: I'm such a scattered participant in LT these days, and see I've failed to comment on your thread in awhile. I hadn't realized the next round of surgery was so imminent. I wish you well; stressful but this is sounding like a more thorough preparation than the last time.

>45 Whisper1: she thinks living with us would mean constant coloring and playing and bowls filled to the rim of ice cream, as well as 9-5 cookie baking. Maybe I want to live with you too!
Dear Linda. I'm glad that you got to the book sale and found some things! I know you're taking care of yourself and counting the days. Like everybody else, I wish I were close by so that I could be some real help.

Giant huge virtual bear hugs to you, Linda, because they are totally painless and I can totally envelope you and leech away your pain. Your joy in life brings joy to my life.

Linda--You have to be the most hopeful, loving, inspirational woman I know. Only you would find good in the pain: "the pain is a good thing actually because it confirms the surgery is truly necessary." You. Are. Amazing!! And in the midst of all you deal with, you continue to delight those two little girls. I am so glad I know you. : )

I love those little books in the top post :)
I hope you are well, and in good spirits. I can't believe you have *more* surgery soon. Surely a test of your resolve!? Hopefully an excellent outcome will follow.

Hi there, Linda! You are amazing! I'm so happy to see you're looking forward to the next procedure and your outlook is good, as it should be.
I think book sales are quite medicinal and should be covered under health insurance. Really! Why hasn't anyone steamrolled this thru the redtape.
I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers next week as you head over to Philly.

>45 Whisper1: >48 LizzieD: "she thinks living with us would mean constant coloring and playing and bowls filled to the rim of ice cream, as well as 9-5 cookie baking."

Not to mention a totally wonderfully amazing collection of books! I bet there is some reading in there, too!

Hope today has less pain.

>45 Whisper1: Lovely description of your time with your neighborhood friends/grandchildren, Linda. Sounds idyllic.

>40 Whisper1: What better way to make light of your physical limitations!

It sounds like your neighborhood is a good place to be. xx

Hi To Everyone. How lovely to read all the wonderful posts.

Today was an incredible day. I met Bill (Weird-O) , Diane Keenoy, and Bill's friend/relative at the Bethlehem Library book sale. I brought a travel size case on wheels so that I could stack books and roll them around rather than carrying them. I think Bill may have accumulated the most. I believe I came in second with a close third by Diane. I think Gig purchased a few books; She is lovely and we may have talked her into joining LT and our group. she is a retired elementary school librarian. She and I had wonderful conversations about Caldecott and Newbery award winners.

Will joined us at the Hotel Bethlehem where we sat around the table for many hours discussing books, favorite authors, and we talked about the 75 challenge group, and all the many special people that make this a dynamic, positive place.

The hours flew by with much laughter and great conversation!

For $18.50 I obtained the following books:

1) English Passengers by Matthew Kneale A Booker Prize Finalist and the Whitbread Book of the Year.
2) Queen of America Luis Alberto Urrea
3) Elvis and Me by P:riscilla Beaulieu Presley
4) The Tapestries by Kien Nguyen
5) The King of Mulberry Street by Donna Jo Napoli Young Adult Book
6) Radiance by Alyson Noel Young Adult Book
7) Shimmer by Alyson Noel Young Adult Book
8) Rap A Tap Tap Here's BoJangles Think of That by Leo Diane Dillon Children's illustrated book
9) Basket Moon by Barbara Cooney and Mary Lyn Ray Children's illustrated book
10) Min-Yo and the Moon Dragon by Elizabeth Hllman Children's illustrated book
11) The Story of Jumping Mouse by John Steptoe Children's i1llustrated book
12) Truth & Beauty by Ann Patchett
13) Russell's Secret by Johanna Hurwitz Children's illustrated book
14) Tops Bottoms by Janet Stevens Children's illustrated book
15) Anatole and the Cat by Eve Titus Children's illustrated book --Caldecott Honor winner
16) The Treasure by Uri Shulevitz by Uri Shulevitz Children's illustrated book
17) A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley
18) She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb
19) Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris
20) Cleopatra by Stacy Schiff
21) Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez
22) Cracker The Best Dog in Vietnam by Cynthia Kadohata
23) The Nazi Officer's Wife by Edith Hahn Beer
24) American Prometheus the Triumph and tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer

Average cost per book = .77

Great meetup pics! Sounds like you had a wonderful time.

Looks like a very nice meet up, Linda! Yay for recruiting a new 75er! Double yay for a nice looking book haul and a way to haul that haul around!

>57 Whisper1: I don't think it was possible to have more fun! Great books and even better company!

How fun! I am so jealous. Love the idea of the rolling suitcase. Brilliant!

Hooray for LT meet-ups!

Wonderful meet-up photos and what a book haul. Happy Sunday, Linda.

What a cool meet up. I envy you all those new books! So glad you could make the trip, Linda. You continue to amaze me with your upbeat spirit despite the pain you are in. I know you are not looking forward to yet another surgery but hopefully the relief you get will make it very worthwhile. Hugs to you and Will! And Lily, too!

I just love hearing about the meet-ups. I'm glad you could enjoy it, Linda, and that you managed to find a few books you don't already have!

Glad you had such a great meet-up! I'm always a little jealous as I've only met up with three LTers total (Morphy, bell7, and of course Ape). They were wonderful experiences, and I formed a book club with Morphy, but still. It'd be nice to travel a bit more. No one comes out here to MN.

ETA: I had the chance to meet Berly in October, but lost it because it was my birthday, and I already had some pretty important plans. :( :( :(

>65 laytonwoman3rd: You should know, Linda, that you'd be very welcome to join the Bethlehem meetups. Buy some inexpensive used books, have lunch in the historic Hotel Bethlehem (originally built and operated by Bethlehem Steel), visit the Moravian Book Shop (oldest continuously operated books store in the country). Diane and Linda--not you, the other Linda--are well-read and very entertaining luncheon companions.

ETA: Next sale is July 13 & 16. Then Sep 14 & 17, and Nov 30 & Dec 3. Always a Wednesday, noon to 8 pm, and a Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm.

Love the meetup photos and the book list! Looks like loads of fun. Hoping things are going well for you Linda, and that you will be in good health and spirits leading up to this next surgery. ((Hugs))

Lovely photo's Linda and looks like you had a really good meet-up and you got a great book haul.

Morning, Linda!

Hooray for a Meet-Up! Good looking bunch! Great book haul, Linda!

Hope you are feeling well, my friend.

Nice meeting up photos and book haul, Linda!

What Darryl said, Linda. That meetup looks and sounds great.

Hi Linda--Just checking up on things here. Hugs! : )

>66 The_Hibernator: I have family in MN, so I am sure you will get another chance. ; )

>67 weird_O: Thanks, Bill! I believe I contemplated coming down in December, but couldn't quite manage it because I was in my last 30 days of a job I'd had for nearly 40 years and there were a lot of loose ends to tie up. I hope I will be able to get there one of these days. September should be doable.

Hello to all. Please forgive my inability to respond individually. After an exhausting day of many appointments at Thomas Jefferson hospital, I am officially cleared for June 13th for fusion in my back, and repair of some of the rods and screws in my neck.

I haven't read much this month, though I certainly accumulated quite a lot. Thanks to everyone for your visits here. And, Bill is right, meetups are open to anyone who can get to Bethlehem, PA. I guarantee a wonderful time. I'm always amazed at how quickly LT people get to know one another, and can laugh and chat the day away.

Hugs to you dear Linda, I'll be thinking of you as your surgery date nears and hope your pain lessens in the interim.

Lovely meet-up photos, it looks like you all are the best of old friends. How nice that you can get together and share the book buying fun!

Please don't sweat individual responses!

>77 Copperskye: What Joanne said re: individual responses! We just want to know how you are doing . . .

June 13th is marked on the calendar, Linda. I'll be sending all sorts of good thoughts your way that day, and every day, as always. Big (but gentle) hugs, my friend.

ETA: The residents of Scaife Manor *need* to get ourselves to PA sometime soon!

I love the meetup photos! I wish I lived clse enough to join you at the next book sale.

Continuing to pray for the success of your upcomng surgery.

Linda, I don't know how I missed this thread - I am very late to swish you a happy new thread. I am glad to hear that your testing is completed and that you have a date for your surgery. All of us here at the Pecan Paradisio will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. I am so in awe of your amazing spirit and attitude.

The meetup photos and your stories of your little neighbor girls made me smile - what lovely moments you are making. Please take care of you.

Thanks to all for your kind

While waiting between appointments, I managed to finish a very good book. I highly recommend Alice I have Been by Melanie Benjamin

BOOK #40

Hi Linda, I will be thinking of you over the next few weeks, up to and past your op date my dear, sending love and hugs (gentle ones) from over the pond.

Hi, Linda! I'm just stopping by to catch up and wish you a good Memorial Day weekend. I do pray your surgery will go well June 13!

Thanks John and Terri! My daughter and family drove in from Ohio. They wanted to spend time with me before the surgery. I am so blessed

>85 Whisper1: What a lovely family group! Enjoy your time together, Linda.

While playing the game sorry last night with the grandchildren, Lilly calmly sat and watched. Then, she took her paw and swiped the colored pieces around the board. We all laughed so hard and we imagined she was playing the game with us.

>86 laytonwoman3rd: Many Thanks!

Sweet family . . . And Lily just really wanted to be red!

Hi, Linda. So sorry to have missed your threads this year. Glad you are cleared for surgery, and so sorry you need to undergo this yet again. It must be hard to keep so positive in the face of so much pain - I am amazed at your resilience, as most of your visitors are as well.

I can just picture Lily deciding it was her turn. Dogs so want to join with us in whatever we do. I'm sure she is a complete joy to have as part of your family.

Will's episode must have been terrifying. Urinary tract infections seem to produce complete havoc until they are beaten back. Happened to my father once. he was totally incoherent and we rushed him to hospital, where they put him on IV antibiotics. The next day we walked into his room and he was doing the Times crossword. Thank goodness for our modern medical capabilities, at least for these situations. Please wish him well for me.

What a lovely family photo! I'm glad you're having fun this weekend.

And look at that smile on Lilly's face!

Hi Linda, what a lovely photo of your family my dear, sending love and hugs to you dear friend.

Lovely photos! The Lilly story made me laugh - clever, clever girl!

Linda--Love the family photo and so glad they came to spend some time with you! And Lilly's story reminded me of the games when my kids were young. The oldest could play on her own. The middle one needed a little guidance and then my youngest came along and wiped all the pieces off the board in one fell swoop!! LOL

So glad you are cleared for surgery. I have the date in my calendar. Not much longer!! : )

Hello to all. I've been MIA and am exhausted from the details of getting ready for surgery! I haven't been ready as much this year. I hope that recovery time allows for this.

Though, I finished this gem a few days ago, and loved it, thanks to Mamie for sharing it with me:
BOOK #41


Twain's End by Lynn Cullen

Dear Linda, we'll keep your thread going for you. You just concentrate on not hurting and prepping for that surgery!
LOVE all the pics - beginning with the meet up and going through family and Lily. She doesn't look very Sorry at all! (I'm currently remembering Carol Burnette and Co. playing as Mama's Family.)
Take care! Take Care!

Hi Linda, just take care of yourself my dear.

Thinking of you, lady...

If you are here or not, you are in our thoughts, Linda! Gentle hug to my friend.

I have Twain's End in the stacks. Yah!

>85 Whisper1: How nice to have the family together!

>87 Whisper1: Now that is a happy looking dog! What a beauty.

Hi Linda, hope you have had a relaxing and restful weekend my dear, sending love and hugs.

just checking in....hugs : )

Sending all kinds of good thoughts your way for the upcoming surgery

Thanks to all for your continued visits. One week from today I should be out of surgery. As the date approaches, there is much to do, but my energy is not there to be able to accomplish it.

The good news is that we have decided to take a few days at Ocean City, NJ with grand daughter Kayla. We leave Wednesday morning and return Friday. It will be a special respite providing quality time together, eating boardwalk fries, consuming ice cream, and enjoying pizza. Oh, and reading, hopefully lots of reading.

I've read books, but haven't had time or energy to post the reviews. I highly recommend two latest reads -- Alice I Have Been and Twain's end.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #59:


Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert.

What a delightful illustrated book. This is a story of a man who has the shape of leaves. As the wind blows him along, he finds animals and other items in the shape of leaves. The pages are not typical and are in various shapes.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #60


Shooting at the Stars The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix

I liked this book so much that I intend to purchase it. Incredible illustrations on high quality glossy stock paper, tell the historical story of WWI and the Christmas day when the firing of bullets stopped along the French and Belgian border when the British and German soldiers decided to stop all the fighting, if only for a special day.

As the British soldiers, weary and cold, looked across at the German trenches, they saw small Christmas trees, and heard the clear sound echoing across the way of the well-known Silent Night. Fearing it was a set up, there was a great deal of hesitancy. As both sides took an enormous chance, they met in the middle, each group buried their dead that were strewn in the battle field. Then, they shook hands and celebrated the holy day.

A loud, resounding order to stop was heard by the commanding officer in chief. Threatened with court marshal action for betraying their respective countries, sadly, the soldiers knew the day had to end.

Still, those who were there spoke of this day for years and years to come.

Highly recommended!

>104 Whisper1: Oh, Linda, have a wonderful time in Ocean City with your granddaughter! What a great idea!

Thinking of you as you get ready for surgery, Linda. I hope you have a wonderful visit with your granddaughter!

Linda, I hope you have a marvelous time in OC, and you're in my thoughts and prayers for the surgery!

Linda--Have fun!! Lots of it. : )

Dear Linda, enjoy your time in the fabulously named Ocean City.

There's that Boardwalk you were talking about!

Thinking of you as your surgery date approaches!

Ocean City looks like a fun place.

Thinking of you and wishing you a successful surgery plus a speedy and thorough recovery. Pain be gone!

Have fun with your family, Linda . . .

Hope it's a bit warmer at the shore than it is here today, Linda. But in any case, a few days by the ocean with family should be good medicine. Have a french fry and a fresh lemonade for me.

Linda, I've been out of touch while traveling, but want to assure you that you are constantly in my thoughts. I'm sending lots of prayers heavenward that THIS surgery will be successful and bring you the longed for relief from pain, so you can get on with your incredible life. Happy thoughts, it will soon be over

You're in my thoughts and prayers this weekend as you prepare for your surgery.

Happy weekend, Linda. Thinking of you and I keep my fingers crossed that everything goes well on Monday.

Sending boatloads of peace and good wishes.

Sending best wishes for your surgery Linda.

Thank you to all. Pain is high, spirits are low. I still am blessed to have one of the top 15 surgeons in North America perform yet another surgery on this weary body.

I so appreciate each and every post. I hope that everyone realizes how much your love and support has sustained me during these years of surgeries.

I am very fortunate in oh so many ways.

Please know how your continued support and outreach means to me.

In appreciation.

Thank you ever so much to all for your outreach. I deeply appreciate your kindness.

Chin up dear lady (if that's not too painful!)

I trust that you and your lovely granddaughter had a lovely time on that New Jersey boardwalk.

You'll be fine my dear - coming times are ones to look forward. I will be with the largish troupe of your supporting group here waiting for your news next week. xx

Just dropping a little buzz and beauty here for you, Linda. You know the group mojo will be working overtime on your behalf this week.

Thanks Paul and Lynda...I deeply appreciate all the outreach.

BOOK #42


Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade

Based on a real life story, this tale ping pongs back and forth from 1919 - 1950's. Tragically, four year old Rachel and her six year old brother became orphans when their mother discovered their father's indiscretion and impregnation of a young , unmarried co-worker. As their mother confronted the father, a knife and anger brought about an accidental slit which led to the death of their mother.

The children are taken to the Hebrew Orphans Asylum in New York City. Deloused and hair cut dramatically, Rachel's experience worsens as a new female radiologist Dr. Mildred Solomon is bent on becoming at the top of the ranks in breakthrough techniques using a newly discovered mode called radiology.

Originally, unknown consequences occurred as a result of repeated exposure; the sin is that Dr. Solomon continued these radiological experiments long after children lost their hair and experienced compromised immune systems. Rachel was told to be a good girl and to allow Dr. Solomon to strap her to a table while exposing her to large doses of radiation.

Fast forward to 1954 when Rachel has survived, bald, and cancer ridden, and since leaving the home, became a nurse. Fate placed Dr. Solomon, now elderly and filled with cancer, in the hands of Rachel Rabinowitz. When confronted with the repercussions of Dr. Solomon's callous treatment, there is no apology. Insisting on calling Rachel Orphan #8, Dr. Solomon notes that she too has cancer and Rachel should feel sorry for her.

Now that Dr. Solomon is in Rachel's care, she turns the table and slowly, intentionally deprives her patient of the necessary Morphine needed.

This would have been an excellent book except that the sub plots and stories seemed to have so very little to do with the primary story. The book started well, but mid way meandered into boredom. I kept putting the book down with the intention of finding another. Yet, I was drawn to finish the story of Rachel and Dr. Solomon.

I wish this debut novel would have been tightly written. Following the path of Rachel and her sexuality wasn't germane to the story. If there was a connection, the author failed to clearly make a case for it.

Two and 1/2 stars.

BOOK #43


Bel Canto by Ann Patchett

What a book! Five stars doesn't do it justice. The setting is an impoverished South American land. The reader is taken to a lush home of the Vice President of the country. The President is home watching a soap opera, while in real life a soap opera nightmare unfolds as poverty-stricken, gun-wielding renegades burst into the home, interrupting the lovely, beautiful singing of a world-class opera diva.

With the overarching, beautiful story of the power of music and art, the tale unfolds as it becomes difficult to sort the good from the bad. As the hostage situation drags on long after the initial group of women and others were left go, the remaining people slowly learn about each other, and, in a wonderful poignant writing style, the author draws us into the the psyche of both the captors and those holding captive.

Strong character development (perhaps a little too over drawn), leads us to understand the intentions of those who are beaten down to the point of wild actions. And, we grow to understand those who, while they may be rich, have their own crosses to bear.

Throughout the story of the have and have nots, the overriding differences of each group and each person, the reader remains captivated, savoring each and every word.

An incredible story line, a exquisite writing style, strong character development, and the power of music which captures all souls and transcends the evils of life, renders this a must read.

I'm also hoping you had a lovely weekend and am sending all my love and prayers for a successful surgery!

>127 Whisper1: I've been meaning to read that one...
Sending positive thoughts for your surgery.

Hi Linda, sending positive thought for your surgery my dear, will be thinking of you and send love and hugs dear friend.

Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, Linda. And in our hearts.

Thanks Roni, Catherine, John and Mamie. I appreciate your kind thoughts.

Glad you enjoyed Bel Canto too, Linda! I thought it was lovely!
Thinking about you more and more as the time approaches. Do, please, get Will or Stasia to post here so we'll know what's going on.
Love you!

Linda, I haven't been around much this year but calling in to wish you all the best for the next few days.
Now you've convinced me to give Bel Canto another try. I just finished Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan which I think you've read, anyway I enjoyed it immensely.

Very nice review of Bel Canto, Linda! That just may be the incentive I needed to give it another try!

Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, my friend

Happy Sunday Linda.

Keeping you in my prayers Linda! Good luck!

Just reminding you that I'm another one praying, dear Linda. COURAGE!!!

Praying! make sure Will let's us know how you are doing.

Bear hugs!

It's Monday there--holding you in prayer and love all day long!

Keeping you in my thoughts, Linda.

Thinking about you! Hoping all goes well.

Thinking of you, friend!

Keeping you in our thoughts, Linda!

Holding you in my heart and prayers.

Lovely review of Bel Canto. Although it's been around several years, yours is the first review that has convinced me I need to read it.

Good reviews of Orphan #8 and Bel Canto, Linda. Sorry the first wasn't better. My wife and I both loved Bel Canto, too. Outstanding.

Hope the surgery goes well today. Thinking of you.

Thinking of you, Linda. xox

Just sort of fidgeting and wishing I knew what was going on. Do well, Linda.

Thinking of you today, Linda, with prayers for your doctors, too.

Thoughts and prayers are with you, my friend.

Thinking of you, Linda, and sending all good thoughts and prayers for a successful outcome.

Hi everyone. I just heard from Linda and she asked me to let you all know that she's in ICU now. Surgery lasted 7 hours and now they're treating the pain which Linda says is intense. It's been a very long day for her and Will. She had to be at the hospital at 5:00 am this morning for surgery at 7.

>152 Dianekeenoy: Diana, thank you so much for the update. xx
Glad to see that she is out of the operating theatre at the very least.

Thank you for the update--I've been keeping an eye on the thread hoping to hear something. I hope they can abate the pain.

It's my pleasure. I was trying not to worry but it was a long time. I will put the updates here, I think that would be easiest for all.

Thanks for the update, Diane. I sure hope they get the pain under control.

Thanks Diane . . .

Thinking of you, Linda!

Thanks for the update, Diane.

Sending you healing mojo and all of our love, Linda.

7 hours - oh my! ICU - oh dear. Praying that the pain comes under control and the surgery is successful.

>152 Dianekeenoy: Thank you, Diane. Poor Linda. Seven hours! I feel like she's suffered enough intense pain for several lifetimes. Thinking of her and sending lots of healing thoughts.

>152 Dianekeenoy: Thanks for the update.

Thanks, Diane. It's so good to have a point of contact in situations like this. I'm sure Linda knows that we're all sending whatever strength and support can be transmitted across the miles. Intense pain is to be expected after any surgical procedure, but most especially orthopedic surgery. She's in a good place where they know how to deal with it. May her healing be swift, uneventful and complete this time.

Thinking of you!

I was so happy to see an update from Linda! Thanks Diane. I'm sure the pain is to be expected and I'm sure it's well controlled but I'm hoping it will soon be a thing of the past. Healing thoughts sent your way!

Thank you, Diane.
I talked to Stasia a little while ago. If you haven't seen her fb post, she says that she talked to Linda this morning. She was foggy from meds but coherent. She will have another unexpected surgery on her neck tomorrow. If they don't do it now, yesterday's surgery will do no good. If you're a pray-er, pray. Or meditate or love or send good vibes.

Praying. Sending good mojo. Wishing upon a star. Crossing fingers and toes!! Love you, Linda!!! Thanks to all for the updates.

>167 Berly: Me, too.

Thanks for the update Diane, sending love and hugs and thinking of you Linda my dear.

>166 LizzieD: Please Read the Update!

>166 LizzieD: . . . another unexpected surgery on her neck tomorrow. If they don't do it now, yesterday's surgery will do no good. If you're a pray-er, pray. Or meditate or love or send good vibes.

Oh, my. As if she hasn't been through enough.

>167 Berly: Ditto!

Thanks for the further update Peggy. Fingers, toes and just about everything else crossed that this is the operation that sorts out Linda's problems for good and that she will be able to enjoy life in a pain free manner henceforward.

Praying here, too.

Oh, dear, Please let the further surgery be successful! thanks, Peggy.

Thanks to Diane and Paggy for the updates on Linda's surgery. So sad she has to have an additional surgery but glad they are doing it now while she is still groggy from the last one. Let's hope this is over soon and Linda can live the pain-free life she deserves.

Waiting for word from you again, dear heart.

Anxious to hear the outcome of today's procedure. What an ordeal for our dear lady.

Checking in for updates - Hope the second surgery went well.

Just checking in for updates and letting you know I'm praying.

Also checking in -- hoping & praying for good news!

Ditto.

Good morning, I just heard from Linda. Her surgery was delayed until 6:00 pm last night. The surgeon just left. On Monday, he worked on Linda's back. He used bone from her hip and used it as a wedge to solidify the area in c2 and c3. He also reopened the mid-range c6 and c7 and re-fused. Last night, he re-fused c2 and c3 from the front She is still in ICU in pain and sick.

I have to say I'm completely impressed with how well she was able to let me know the situation so that we wouldn't worry. This is one amazing woman!

>182 Dianekeenoy: Thank you so much for the update! I'm always amazed by Linda's strength.

Thanks for the update.
Prayers are always with her

>182 Dianekeenoy: Thank you, Diane. What a lot Linda has had to go through. I hope she gets some relief from the surgery.

>182 Dianekeenoy:, Linda is an amazing lady Diane, I don't think I could have let anyone know the situation, thinking of this lovely lady and sending vast amounts of love and very gentle hugs.

Thank you so much for the update, Diane. Linda is indeed an amazing lady.

Thank you, Diane. Glad to know that she is over this particular hurdle and praying that she will at last see some wonderful results.

I'm glad to keep us all updated. It was important to Linda to let us know how she was doing, she knows we all worry about each other. I've told her that she certainly has a lot of friends here that keep her in their thoughts and prayers. Here's hoping she gets some rest and will be as pain free as possible.

Thanks so much for the update, Diane.

Thinking of you, Linda, and sending you all of our love and healing mojo.

I'm glad the second surgery is over. Rest and Recover quickly, Linda. I hope you'll feel up to the third "R" (Reading) soon!

Thank you, Diane. xx

Thanks Diane.
Love and hugs to Linda . . .

Sounds positive so far. Fingers crossed.

Linda posted on Facebook:

Dr . Vacarro just visited. Every level from c2-t1 is completely fused. All screws that needed repair, we're removed and replaced. All screws and hardware tested. Fingers crossed , all is re set and should remain intact. He will be surprised if it doesn't heal

YEAH!!! Keep praying everyone!

I do indeed pray that this is the answer and the end of the pain at last!

Hope all your pain is at an end now my dear, sending love and hugs to a dear friend.

Such good news! Thank you for sharing!

>195 cyderry: WooHoo!

Fingers crossed!

Just stopping by with well-wishes. You are in my prayers, Linda!

You're in my prayers Linda! I'm glad to hear that things are looking up (>195 cyderry:)

More support!!! Hope by tomorrow you'll begin to feel better, Linda.

Thinking about you and wishing you fast healing!

Hello to all. Words cannot express my gratitude!

Will came to Philadelphia in terrible Friday rush hour traffic to take me home. The rooms available at local rehab centers were not centers I would choose to heal. I am home and doing reasonably well.

I have pain; I expect pain. Healing Lilly dog has remained for the most part, by my side. At times I look down at her and she tilts her head and licks my hand. while Will doesn't lick my hand (trying to be funny through the pain), I couldn't ask for better. He has stayed by me through seven serious surgeries.

We had a potential hazardous situation last night and Lilly saved the day. Will is so consumed with helping me that he is forgetting things, like eggs boiling in a pot on the stove downstairs while he is watching National Geographic upstairs. I tested my sea legs and held on to the banner and walked up the steps for exercise. I rested and then went into the bathroom to wash my face. Lilly poked her nose at the door, came in and was very agitated, looking at me like I should pay attention to her. She led me downstairs to the smoke filled living room and kitchen. Luckily, there were no flames, but a lot of smoke.

Lilly is trying out for the new Lassie show next week. For political correctness, the previous character of Timmy will be called Tina. Lilly gets to keep her name as well. I'm kidding about the tv show, but serious about Lilly saving us from what could have been a very very dangerous situation.

A visiting nurse is here every day to check on stitches, of which there are four areas. the hip is bothersome. I know my body. today is a low energy, high pain day and that means I am healing. I really prayed that this would be the last surgery, and I believe the love of all of you, the love of dear friends and family will make this the magical seven.

Overall, it was a VERY positive experience at Thomas Jefferson. the nurses were incredibly friendly, kind and wonderful. and the surgeon communicated on an ongoing basis. I have the distinct reputation of being friendly and positive and he always tells me that the staff are amazed at my fortitude. This is not a surgeon who would say that if not true. I'm simply mentioning it because I feel so blessed to still be able to look at the good, the positive, and all that is whole and wonderful.

Thank you for your ongoing support. I am blessed many times over and over and over!!!!!!

Happy Summer Day To All!

Good to hear from you, Linda, and to hear that things are progressing properly. What a grand dog is Lilly! One of my greatest fears is that I will forget to turn off the stove, or will turn on the wrong burner and walk away letting the empty tea kettle burn up....it's happened to so many people. Let's take that incident as a sign that luck is on your side and things WILL turn out well.

Good girl, Lily!!
I hope it wasn't too much for you to have to walk downstairs?

Sending healing thoughts and big hugs for all of you.

Clever, clever Lilly!

You have been in my heart and in my prayers constantly, Linda. I am giving it all I have got and really wanting for this to be the very last surgery for you and that it will bring a release from all the pain. Words can just not express how very blown away I am by your positive attitude and your upbeat spirit. I am in awe of your courage and fortitude. Please know that we are all thinking of you and wishing you well.

I could do with Lily by Kyran's side as he has a similar habit of leaving the cooker unattended and soon forgotten.

Great to see you back home and taking little steps along that long road to full recovery. xx

Thank you for the update, Linda. Go Lilly! What a terrific furry friend you have there.

We're all thinking of you and pulling for this being the magical seven.

It's so good to see you back here, Linda! Lilly is such a blessing and it's good to know she has your back! I hope every minute is an improvement on your pain!

It's great to see you back, Linda. I'm so glad Lily saved the day! On at least one occasion, Sig alerted me to a similar hazard when I got lost in a book and forgot the stove.

Hi Linda, good to see you have enough energy to post on here my dear, just you take it nice and steady lady, we will post to see how you are but know that you have recovery to deal with and you will get to us in good time. So glad Lilly saved the day and what a good dog is she, poor Will he is trying his best as we husbands try to do. We are not used to all this multi-tasking that you ladies seem to do with ease so please pass on my good wishes to him. Continue to heal well my dear, you are one amazing lady and we send love and hugs to you dear friend.

Wow! Glad you are posting, and good for Lilly!

>205 Whisper1: VERY positive experience
Well that's an improvement over the last round of surgery. But healing at home does sound much more comfortable than staying in Philadelphia, especially with daily medical attention and wonder dog watching out for you.

>205 Whisper1: Linda, your post made my day. It's so good to see you posting an update here. I hope that your recovery period progresses well. Please give Lilly an extra hug from me. How blessed you are to have such a smart and loving canine companion!

OH my goodness!!! Posting and managing stairs!!!! I'm convinced that you are Wonder Woman. Bless you and Will and Lilly!!!!!!!
Hope you're resting well tonight and that tomorrow will be just that bit better than today was. I am ready with you for pain to be GONE!!!
Continue to take very good care of yourself!

Sooooo happy to see your post :)

Linda--As usual, you are putting a positive, brave face on everything. You are amazing! And thank goodness you have Lilly to save the day, too! Sending very best wishes to you, Will and Lilly. Hugs galore. : )

I'm also happy to see you posting and with such good humour. A pat to Lilly and my regards to Will.

You're an amazing woman, Linda. An example to us all of grace under tremendous pressure. Bless you, and bless Lily for looking out for you. Xox

So lovely to see an update from you Linda - praying for you, Will (and Lilly the wonder-dog).

It's great to see you back, Linda. Careful hugs.

Yay for Lilly! And Yay for you, you amazing woman!

Welcome home, Linda! There's no place like home, there's no place like home, there's no place like home ...

With your books, and your bed, and Will and the wonderdog. What a furry blessing she is!

Paws up to smart Lilly!

So glad you are doing better!

>127 Whisper1: That's one of my favorite books read in the last few years. It has actually "stuck" with me.

Great to see that you are at home Linda.

So glad to hear that you are home Linda. Wishing you a good recovery, and hoping you have less pain every day. Hooray for Lilly the hero. Dogs are such good friends. :)

We all need a Lilly!

My sweet, brave friend, I am so proud to say those words.
Just know that my prayers for you will continue because I want this to be the final time that we have to worry about how your surgery went and if you are getting better.

Bear hugs for you because they are gently sent!

Have a cupcake!

Thanks to everyone for your kind words. Lack of energy precludes personal responses. Please know how much I appreciate all the wonderful outreach.

I've had a lot of post surgical pain the last few days, but it is manageable. The pain medication -- roxicet, brings on nasty migraines. I need a different prescription, but the surgeon in Phila. has to authorize it. Because opiate prescriptinos cannot be called into the pharmacy,. this means that we would need to drive to Philadelphia. I'm trying to arrange for the surgeon's physician's assistant to contact the local surgeon whose care I am under and authorize him to write what is needed.

In the meantime, I am sitting still and reading. I read

BOOK#44


January First by Michael Schofield

This is a raw, sad, yet inspiring book written by a father who so deeply loves his four year old daughter, he will do anything to help find resources for her bizarre and violent behaviors. Hearing voices of pretend friends, January (Janni) drops in and out of reality.

After a long, arduous journey, and many trips to hospitals and institutions who were at a loss to help, finally Janni was diagnosed with the worst-case early onset schizophrenia case on record.

Highly recommended, primarily because it gives a very telling description of this nasty severe mental illness, and affirms the depths of love of parents who will go to the ends of the earth for the child they love.

Linda, so glad to see that the pain is manageable and that you're reading a bit and posting a bit. Gentle hugs and many prayers for you and Will and Lilly. So glad she was able to get you (leaving something on like that is exactly the sort of thing I'd manage to do). I hope you're able to get the meds you need soon and that your surgeons will be able to touch base to do it.

I sure hope the worst is behind you, Linda. Continue to mend, my friend. I think of you often. Looking forward to a book-buying meet-up in September.

Hi Linda! Just checking in. Hope they figure out the meds ASAP -- No one needs a migraine on top of excruciating pain!! Continuing to send healing thoughts and gentle hugs. : )

>230 Whisper1: Sorry to hear about the pain and migraines. I know from experience they can't call in prescriptions for opiates, but I've had my doctors fax the prescriptions... could they not do that for you?? Would at least save you a trip. Hope you start feeling better soon, dear lady.

Good luck with the medication situation, Linda. Getting just the right one for each person is tricky sometimes, and you certainly don't need nasty side-effects. I'm glad you're managing some reading; I hope that gives you a bit of an escape from the pain.

I just caught up with your thread and am sad to see how much you have had to go through, Linda. Good to see that you have lots of support around you with Will and Lily. I hope you have a strong recovery this time.

Thank goodness, Lily is such an intelligent fur kid!
Sorry to read the rehab facilities were not to be desired but it was just meant to be that you should be at home with Will, Lily and your neighbors. Heal well...and completely, my friend!

Continuing to keep you in our thoughts and prayers, Linda. Sending you our love.