tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67217857853765881912012-01-27T21:09:08.239-06:00Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.comBlogger4141100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-85415131200868461982012-01-25T07:54:00.000-06:002012-01-25T07:54:59.187-06:00

Theater Shoes by Noel Streatfeild My enjoyment rating: 2 of 5 stars Book source:  Public library Genre:  Juvenile fiction Life’s a bummer – Sorrel, Mark, and Holly’s mother is dead (although we never learn when or how), their father is missing in action during WWII, they are living with their paternal grandfather, who also dies, then they are shipped to London to live with their

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  The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 stars Source: Personal copy January Book Club choice Child abandoned on a ship, two continents, a lost identity, an English estate, creepy relatives, a “forgotten garden” -- the perfect equation for a luscious, twisty novel! Kate Morton’s The Forgotten Garden has all the elements for a cozy read, in a big chair, by

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War Horse by Michael Morpurgo My enjoyment rating: 4 out of 5 stars Source:  Personal copy Genre:  Juvenile Fiction Sensitive reader:  Descriptions of battlefields and war, but nothing particularly graphic. Joey works on a farm. But on the eve of WWI, Joey’s responsibilities change…he must train for the battlefields and trenches in France. We learn from Joey about of the horrors of

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-23954546200997617642012-01-08T22:08:00.000-06:002012-01-08T22:15:28.607-06:00

So Big by Edna Ferber My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars Source:  Library Copy What's in a Name Challenge 4 (Size) “Cabbages are beautiful!” Once these words are uttered, you are intimately aware of Selina Peake DeJong’s view of life and the world around her. Raised by a father who taught her that life was an adventure – Selina takes a job as a country teacher in High Prairie, a

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-22832281887395854332011-12-28T18:43:00.002-06:002011-12-28T18:48:36.100-06:00

 Devil's Cub by Georgette Heyer My enjoyment rating: 2.5 of 5 stars Book source:  Library copy Book Challenge:  What's in a Name (EVIL in title) The Marquis of Vidal is a brute, spoiled, selfish, boorish, and has anger management issues. Not the kind of guy any decent young lady would want to associate with. However, because he is a “marquis” all of the available society girls are

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-7492967463265714862011-12-19T22:45:00.000-06:002011-12-20T11:30:25.775-06:00

I was treated to a pre-birthday present when I managed to snag 4 VIP armbands to see him: I'm not sure who was  more nervous -- me or my daughter!  He was incredibly kind to my kids and spent a few minutes with each of them, in spite of the HUGE line waiting. I was very thankful for the Dinosaur Train toy display that kept my 5 yr old entertained while we waited.  We were not allowed

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-24591264324520760482011-12-18T19:18:00.000-06:002011-12-18T21:31:33.782-06:00

An Old-Fashioned Girl by Louisa May Alcott My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 stars Source: Personal Copy Book Challenge:  What's in a Name: Life Stage (Old & Girl) Polly Milton first visits her “city” cousins when she is an adolescent. Often teased for her “country” and old fashioned ways, Polly must maintain her sense of self even in the midst of relatives and their unfamiliar,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-56513044701258450742011-11-30T09:50:00.003-06:002011-11-30T09:53:36.050-06:00

Home for the Holidays by Heather Vogel Frederick My rating: 5 of 5 stars Book Source:  personal copy Review from "Rosie Girl" formerly known as "Daisy Daughter" Home for the Holidays is number five in the Mother/Daughter Book Club Series. This realistic fiction novel is about five teenage girls who leave their homes in Concord, Massachusetts for different winter vacations. The girls go

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-18485689277711341192011-11-21T21:18:00.001-06:002011-11-21T21:25:47.370-06:00

Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt My enjoyment rating: 5 of 5 stars Book Source:  Personal Copy Genre:  Juvenile/Middle Grade Fiction Consider the following: an author proposes writing a middle grade novel involving John James Audubon’s Birds of America, an emotionally abusive father, a Vietnam veteran brother, the classic novel Jane Eyre, the New York Yankees, an eccentric playwright,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-78378390273525995152011-11-16T11:35:00.001-06:002011-11-16T11:39:07.272-06:00

Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 stars Source: Public library Sensitive reader:  fairly detailed blood and guts account of the human anatomy Preparing a Thanksgiving meal may never be the same after reading Stiff, Mary Roach’s eerie, but fascinating look at the life (or is it death?) of the human cadaver. In the opening chapter, Mary is

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-1318387738911616642011-11-12T00:30:00.000-06:002011-11-12T00:30:01.877-06:00

The story of life is told in several volumes...Friends are bookends holding up either side.  Mary Anne Radmacher I first met Mary Anne Radmacher at our local literary festival three years ago.  When I exited her workshop, I thought I'd met a new best friend.  Her words were inspiring and her presence peaceful.  I've since indulged on her inspirational writings and quotes on many occasions.

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-23771900437291322422011-11-06T16:56:00.000-06:002011-11-06T17:06:06.079-06:00

My apologies to ESPN’s Chris Berman, and his “fastest 3 minutes in the NFL” – my homage won’t include any interceptions or injuries, but you can easily read this post during any halftime.   Life. Children. Home. School. Work. All have somehow complicated my reading habits.   Books have become the caboose of my daily existence – the end of a very long day to which I fall asleep.  Thus,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-6717517708956610322011-09-21T15:59:00.001-05:002011-09-21T15:59:51.306-05:00

The Shadows by Jacqueline West My enjoyment rating: 3 of 5 stars Daisy Daughter rating:  3.5 out of 5 stars Genre:  Juvenile Fiction Mother/Daughter book club is back! Our first 5th grade meeting was last night. The girls were thrilled to be back in action – and – for the first time, I could tell their maturity level is finally measuring up to being a part of book club.

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The Dirty Life: On Farming, Food, and Love by Kristin Kimball My enjoyment rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars Source:  Personal copy Genre:  Memoir, non-fiction My only recollections of EVER getting up at 3:45am: • Pulling an all-nighter in college to finish a college paper or study for a test • Nursing a newborn • Insomnia Kristin Kimball and her husband Mark, get up

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-50740232119110440072011-08-30T19:31:00.000-05:002011-08-30T19:31:16.839-05:00

Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin My enjoyment rating: 1.5 out of 5 stars Source:  Personal AUTOGRAPHED copy -- makes it even more disappointing Sensitive reader:  Vulgar language Larry Ott is his own version of Boo Radley – loner, taunted by neighborhood kids as “Crazy Larry”, misunderstood by his late parents. He only has one friend – Silas “32”Jones — and their shared

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-74866250398978787552011-08-19T09:16:00.051-05:002011-08-19T09:52:23.336-05:00

Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene My enjoyment rating: 2.5 out  of 5 stars. Source:  Library Copy. Book Group Choice for August. Genre:  Juvenile Fiction Patty Bergen has a secret – a big one!  But her secret could put her life and future in danger, but she is willing to take the risk. When a group of German POWs are detained at a prison camp in NE Arkansas (based on

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-4008087350779549142011-08-17T20:37:00.000-05:002011-08-17T20:37:40.628-05:00

 The Three Weissmanns of Westport: A Novel by Cathleen Schine My enjoyment rating: 2 of 5 stars (maybe 1.5) Book Source:  Unfortunately, it was a personal copy Challenge:  It does however fulfill a challenge requirement -- book with a NUMBER in the title. You should never pay attention to a blurb that reads, "...homage to Jane Austen." It will invariably set you up for a big letdown.

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We go back to school on Monday (where on earth did the summer go?), but more importantly, we are starting our 3rd year of Mother Daughter Book Group! I emailed our collective pairs and got confirmations from all but two.    Our first discussion will be in September and our selection is: The Shadows (Books of Elsewhere Series #1) by Jacqueline West , Poly Bernatene (Illustrator)

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-52032306328339255852011-08-11T00:18:00.008-05:002011-08-17T20:15:02.694-05:00

South to Alaska: A True Story of Courage and Survival from the Heartland of America to the Heart of a Dream by Nancy Owens Barnes My enjoyment rating: 4 out of 5 stars Source:  Copy received from the author -- my thoughts on this book are my own; I was not compensated in anyway for my review. What were your dreams growing up? To be a fireman? Policeman? Princess? Those are common

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-34113412447443144252011-08-10T01:54:00.003-05:002011-08-10T14:50:17.109-05:00

The Diary of Mattie Spenser by Sandra Dallas My enjoyment rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars Source:  Personal copy, library copy and Ebook! Lost in a trunk in her granddaughter’s attic, Mattie Spenser’s diary is a pearl waiting to be discovered. Once the cover is opened, a remarkable story unfolds of homesteading, survival, hardship and tragedy. Sandra Dallas has created a Wild West tale

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-4105148918967193762011-08-09T11:54:00.001-05:002011-08-09T12:00:39.650-05:00

The Lonely Polygamist by Brady Udall Guest Post by Daisy Dad Daisy Dad's Enjoyment Rating:  3.5 out of 5 stars Source: Personal Copy Sensitive reader:  language, sexual innuendo, infidelity I am going to let the cat out of the bag.  We are Mormon.  Not your standard run of the mill Utah Mormons, but those rare, often misunderstood LIBERAL Mormons.  (You thought I was going to say

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-78125509472934367342011-08-08T12:13:00.001-05:002011-08-08T12:18:58.765-05:00

Due to some splendid luck, I was able to select TWO winners -- each to receive a new copy of Major Pettigrew's Last Stand! The are: Lisa of Lisa's World of Books& Judy (Random.org # 2 and #14) Thanks for participating!Hope you enjoy the books!

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-35961863138093066112011-08-04T23:23:00.000-05:002011-08-04T23:23:43.285-05:00

Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer: A Road Trip into the Heart of Fan Mania by Warren St. John My enjoyment rating: 3.5 of 5 stars Source:  Library copy Sensitive reader:  Language, including the F bomb. Oklahoma was ranked #1 in the preseason USA Today/Coaches Poll, today. Why does that matter? Well, when you are a football fanatic, you wait 9 months for this date, and anticipate the 12 autumn

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-41346838936003206702011-08-01T00:05:00.001-05:002011-08-01T00:05:00.159-05:00

The summer is slowly "hopping" to a close...what better way to wrap summer reading than with a book giveaway! Thanks to I am a Reader not a Writer and Book Hounds for sponsoring this giveaway! I am offering one (1) new copy of the highly popular, New York Times bestseller:Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson We read this for book club last month, and although it wasn't my favorite, it

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-32243005680410696442011-07-18T17:50:00.000-05:002011-07-18T17:50:12.232-05:00

Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson My enjoyment rating: 2.5 of 5 stars Book Source:  Public Library Alas, I was out of town for our July book club meeting. My daughter was at her grandparents for an extended period, and I needed to pick her up. I was sorry to miss this discussion, because I was very eager to see what others thought – because this wasn’t an enjoyable read for me –

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-28199791732553802072011-07-07T18:16:00.000-05:002011-07-07T18:16:20.513-05:00

A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson My enjoyment rating: 3.5 of 5 stars Book source:  Public library Sensitive reader: Foul language -- what I would consider "locker room" talk. With bravado and a lot of planning, Bill Bryson sets out on the arduous journey to hike the mythical Appalachian Trail, the roughly 2100 mile trek from Georgia to Maine.

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-88607276493456318482011-06-30T14:00:00.002-05:002011-06-30T17:00:13.595-05:00

  Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand My rating: 5 of 5 stars (if I could give it 6 I would!) Genre:  Non-fiction; biography Source:  Personal copy Sensitive reader:  graphic descriptions of war, bombing, prisoner of war treatment and conditions. The Greatest Generation: This title has become synonymous with the generation of

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-79017253409196624202011-06-23T00:30:00.002-05:002011-06-23T09:42:41.968-05:00

Much to my children’s dismay, each afternoon during the summer we have reading time – about an hour of quiet time where we – myself included – sit down and read a book. With the help of my older two children (ages 8 and 10) we’ve put together a fairly aggressive reading list for the summer. I don’t expect that we will finish all of these in the next 8 weeks – but it gives us some latitude on

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-48007782389652723782011-06-22T16:13:00.000-05:002011-06-22T16:13:27.315-05:00

  The Luck of the Buttons by Anne Ylvisaker My rating: 3 of 5 stars Book source:  Public library Genre:  Juvenile Fiction Summary: In Iowa circa 1929, spunky twelve-year-old Tugs vows to turn her family’s luck around, with the help of a Brownie camera and a small-town mystery. Tugs Esther Button was born to a luckless family. Buttons don’t presume to be singers or dancers. They aren’

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-79765930235224258702011-06-21T22:50:00.000-05:002011-06-21T22:50:46.529-05:00

The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers by Harry Bernstein My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 stars Book source:  Personal copy You are never too old to tell your story. And at the age of 96, Harry Bernstein did just that. Growing up in Manchester, England on the eve of World War I, Harry details in stunning prose the “invisible wall” that divides his neighborhood – that of

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-37828052320801428482011-06-16T23:31:00.000-05:002011-06-16T23:31:14.908-05:00

Hold Tight by Harlan Coben My enjoyment rating: 3 of 5 stars Book Source:  Public library  Parenting is the most difficult when trying to support your teenage son after the suicide death of his best friend. But when the son’s behavior starts to mirror that of the deceased friend, panic sets in and parents will do all most anything to keep their son alive – including spying. Mike and Tia Baye

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-82958966616413794132011-06-05T22:22:00.000-05:002011-06-05T22:22:27.156-05:00

Penny Candy by Jean Kerr My rating: 3 of 5 stars Book source:  Public library My final Jean Kerr book from the trifecta offered by the library was equally entertaining. Penny Candy follows the same formula as her previous anthologies – essays on motherhood, marriage, fashion, décor and exercise (or lack thereof) – told from a vintage 1950s point of view. I liked this the least of the three

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-36784153121654688862011-06-02T13:24:00.000-05:002011-06-02T13:24:01.889-05:00

I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith My enjoyment rating:  3 out of 5 stars Book Source:  Personal copy Summary: I Capture the Castle tells the story of seventeen-year-old Cassandra and her family, who live in not-so-genteel poverty in a ramshackle old English castle. Here she strives, over six turbulent months, to hone her writing skills. She fills three notebooks with sharply funny

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-64516297956470560562011-06-01T21:46:00.003-05:002011-06-20T17:31:37.665-05:00

 Bossypants by Tina Fey My enjoyment rating: 3 of 5 stars (possibly 2.5 stars) Book Source:  Personal copy (Mother's Day gift to be specific!) Sensitive reader:  Language, including the F bomb. Tina Fey – master of Sarah Palin impersonations and creator of quirky Liz Lemon and 30 Rock - -has ventured into literary memoirs with her book, Bossypants. I was expecting fall on the floor, choking

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-64459963939817258562011-05-18T13:16:00.003-05:002011-05-18T21:11:17.902-05:00

  The Birthday Ball by Lois Lowry My Enjoyment Rating:  4 out of 5 stars Daisy Daughter rating:  B+Group rating:  B+Book Source:  Public library Princess Patricia Priscilla is bored with her pampered life, so she switches places with her housemaid, Tess. After swapping her finery for a drab brown dress and kicking off her shoes, “Pat” embarks on a day as a village school girl. “Pat”

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-4924860967786022492011-05-15T19:16:00.000-05:002011-05-15T19:16:21.407-05:00

Surely, they could have found another stock photo? Long Drive Home by Will Allison Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine (also, National Book Award Winner...is Drive Home trying to ride their coat-tails of literary success?).

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-77945922434570880002011-05-09T16:22:00.001-05:002011-05-09T16:27:51.745-05:00

In fewer than three weeks I will be leaving my post as PTA president of my children's elementary school. It's been an amazing year -- but I couldn't have done it without my amazing executive board members. So -- I'm now in a quandary about what kind of thank you "gift" I should get them for their service to me and our school...I need your suggestions!  Any ideas or thoughts??

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-37959033675526653242011-05-08T22:27:00.000-05:002011-05-08T22:27:06.564-05:00

After tornadoes, power outages, downed trees in my yard, and flooding, Mother Nature's wrath really zapped my reading mojo.  It's taken me weeks to get back to normal, and the "importance" of blogging and reading just seems so, well, trivial.   I've been nursing I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith since before the Royal Wedding (castles, the English countryside, romance -- seemed like a good

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-31984078808350007652011-04-26T16:56:00.000-05:002011-04-26T16:56:35.836-05:00

If I don't post for awhile, it is because we've been dealing with some serious weather, including this bad boy that blew thru town last night... (for those not familiar with this -- it's called a FUNNEL CLOUD!!) We are without power at home, therefore no Internet either.  I've been told we will have electricity back by Thursday at midnight...but who knows... In the mean time, I've been

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-49455489992196899752011-04-22T12:02:00.002-05:002011-04-22T12:29:26.401-05:00

Not a normal month for our book group. Our original selection, Here on Earth by Alice Hoffman was abandoned mid-read. Although I am a fairly “liberal” reader, some of our members are significantly more cautious. So the content of this book was deemed inappropriate. This is the first time in 8 years that we’ve switched books in the middle of the month, which is a fairly good track record, if you

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-78228171695806492862011-04-19T23:06:00.000-05:002011-04-19T23:06:14.378-05:00

My Life in Pink and Green by Lisa Greenwald My enjoyment rating: 1 of 5 starsDaisy Daughter rating: B-/C+Overall Book Club rating:  A-Book Source:  Library copy Lucy Desberg is determined to help her mother and grandmother save their family pharmacy from bankruptcy. Burdened with bills they cannot pay, Lucy’s grandmother is convinced they will to sell all they have to make ends meet. But Lucy

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-74590870688915254902011-04-13T00:30:00.056-05:002011-04-13T00:30:03.642-05:00

A mother's day is filled with all kinds of emergencies, from bumps and bruises to hospital stays. Find the perfect way to recover from your own family's little emergencies with Jane Isfeld Still's latest book on the hilarious daily challenges of a mother in the fray. You're sure to laugh and cry as you celebrate the joys of motherhood. Jane Isfeld Still has written a collection of delightful

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-31234660760241901152011-04-12T08:23:00.000-05:002011-04-12T08:23:24.333-05:00

Mrs. Mike by Benedict Freedman My enjoyment rating: 3 of 5 stars Book source:  Personal copy Katherine O'Fallon is sent off to the great White North to live with an uncle under the premise that it will be good for her health...at the age of 16, she finds strength, love, tragedy, and a home she never wants to leave. This was a quaint story. I loved the relationship Kathy had with her Canadian

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-7657081759350375512011-04-11T20:43:00.000-05:002011-04-11T20:43:35.980-05:00

I spent a great Saturday in the company of authors, writers, chefs and friends.  It was a spectacular event, and I would have attended MORE sessions if they hadn't conflicted with one another! Started Saturday morning at the new author panel and heard readings from both Kyran Pittman and Eleanor Brown.  Kyran is a dear friend; it was a thrill to see her in the "moment."  So excited for her

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-19648491926112769592011-04-08T13:59:00.001-05:002011-04-08T15:03:07.221-05:00

It may not be BEA -- but it's the next best thing! For months I struggled with the idea of trying to get myself to New York for Book Expo of America -- but the reality was I couldn't coordinate ANY of our schedules -- mine, husband's, children -- or finances that would allow my attendance. Fortunately, I live in a community that supports the arts and it's artists, and for the 7th year, Little

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-30050666650090004252011-04-04T15:56:00.000-05:002011-04-04T15:56:52.300-05:00

The winner of my Mom & Me giveaway for TWO tickets to the Saturday, April 9th matinee of The Rep's production of Hairspray is: Susan  (Random.org #6) Have a great time, Susan! Thanks to all of those who entered. Even if you didn't win the giveaway, you can still purchase tickets at The Rep's box office (501) 378-0405 or on line.  The show runs from April 8th -- May 8th.

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-44606147436586645082011-04-03T19:03:00.000-05:002011-04-03T19:03:23.993-05:00

Tammy (#15 from Random.org) Thanks to all of those who entered my Fool for Books giveaway!

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-89854360788412061672011-04-01T01:00:00.005-05:002011-04-01T07:14:40.101-05:00

  Seriously, I am the lamest trickster around.  You'd think I could come up with something "foolish" on the fooly-ish of all days.  My only claim to doing something extraordinary on April Fool's Day is -- give birth!!  My youngest son turns 5 years old today!  So, in addition to giving away a book, I am also in the midst of baking a birthday cake and wrapping presents!  Happy Birthday my

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-23767284608291671532011-03-30T01:00:00.002-05:002011-03-30T01:00:04.647-05:00

 Book: Down the Nile:  Alone in a Fisherman's Skiff by Rosemary Mahoney I gave this the "50 page" rule and gave up.  Just didn't connect with her writing or her journey.  Here is a synopsis for those who may want to give this a try: When Rosemary Mahoney first planned to take a solo boat trip down the Nile, she could not have imagined all the complications that she would eventually face.

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-10027796863138691132011-03-29T01:00:00.006-05:002011-03-29T18:53:03.046-05:00

 The Paris Wife by Paula McLain My enjoyment rating: 4½ out of 5 stars Book source:  Library copy Sensitive reader:  minor sexual innuendo I’ve never read a single word written by Ernest Hemingway. An embarrassing confession coming from someone who likes to read as much as I do. But after reading Paula McClain’s “The Paris Wife” I am convinced that Hadley Richardson, his first wife, was the

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-81780098868379645862011-03-28T01:00:00.007-05:002011-03-28T01:00:01.774-05:00

  Wow -- I'm so excited about this giveaway -- because it's for THE REP!  I have TWO tickets for the April 9th, 2pm matinee to giveaway to a follower (preferably one that lives in Arkansas!) I can't think of a better way to spend an afternoon with your daughter than at The Arkansas Repertory Theatre's special matinee showing of their latest production, Hairspray. Based on the film by

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-69679526683707782542011-03-27T19:31:00.021-05:002011-03-27T20:06:13.352-05:00

That Borders bookstore near my folks' house in Oklahoma? It was in the final days of their closing and they were down to the bare shelves over the weekend, so I succumbed took advantage of their huge sale prices and bought a box load of books.  Really, I need to seek treatment for this...but at roughly $4 a book, it's still cheaper than one pair of shoes. In no particular order:

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-34284904833619035192011-03-21T11:33:00.000-05:002011-03-21T11:33:45.658-05:00

#14 -- CINDY Random.orgTrue Random Number GeneratorMin: 2Max: 107Result: 14 Thank you to ALL who entered my Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway!

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-88047306583171811722011-03-19T16:07:00.000-05:002011-03-19T16:07:05.062-05:00

I forgot to mention in my book group post that I made some awesome treats for our monthly meeting. It was one of our members' birthday, so I made a Cherry Pudding Cake (without the trace of pudding).  It's a recipe I make quite often (originally found in a Weight Watchers magazine).  It's fool proof and YUMMY! Topping:1/3 c. all purpose flour1/3 c. brown sugar1/2 tsp cinnamon3tbsps butter,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-82727027680098299332011-03-18T13:01:00.001-05:002011-03-29T18:54:07.635-05:00

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 starsBook group rating: AChallenge requirement:  What's in a Name 4 (book with movement) Book Source:  Library copySensitive reader:  profanity (including F bomb), sexual innuendo, violent situations Daniel Sempere is the son of a bookseller. His life is books. With one trip to the “Cemetery of Forgotten Books” in the

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-57689852697319518882011-03-17T01:00:00.019-05:002011-03-17T01:00:06.517-05:00

Erin go Bragh! Be on the look out for little Leprechauns giving away books on blogs all over the bloggersphere thanks to the ladies over at Books Complete Me and Kathy at I am a Reader not a Writer. You would think my offering would be green, or Irish, or having to do with Guinness beer, or Shepherd's Pie -- but in fact, I will be honoring Women's History Month (the month of March is

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-32397698331669014562011-03-16T12:31:00.002-05:002011-03-16T19:18:10.187-05:00

Borders recently announced that is was closing many of its stores in the coming months.  We don't have a Borders here in Arkansas, but the store around the corner from my folks' house in Oklahoma is closing at the end of March.  My mom asked me the other day if I needed any books? Really, Mom, what a question!!  Need books -- I never need books -- but I want them like I want chocolate, or donuts,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-40204163982513848612011-03-15T20:50:00.001-05:002011-03-15T20:51:55.501-05:00

Disaster.  Tonight's meeting was an absolute disaster.  The girls were uninterested, ill-mannered, and totally unfocused.  I'm not sure if it was the book or the moon -- but if I could call "do-overs" this would be the night. We read The Candy Bomber -- a book that both Daisy daughter and I loved -- but wasn't particularliy a winner with the group.  It was our first venture with a non-fiction

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-18882275471264549702011-03-14T01:00:00.001-05:002011-03-14T01:00:04.709-05:00

Another gold mine find at the library used bookstore -- vintage 1965 Betty Crocker cookbooks for kids: and They were each is really good condition and only $1/each!  The illustrations are fabulous!  Now I can add these to my collection with my personal, original copy of:

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-2630115260098074082011-03-11T09:04:00.001-06:002011-03-11T09:09:37.540-06:00

Last year I was overwhelmed by the task of organizing our annual gala PTA fundraiser at the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock.   This year, I have a wonderful chairman who has done all of the planning, leg-work and logistics.  However, I've been there to offer whatever assistance I can to make her job easier. Once again, though, I was able to collect a few copies of signed books

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-57363234874598125012011-03-09T11:29:00.000-06:002011-03-09T11:29:15.338-06:00

It's been awhile since I've posted about the picture books we read at home.  Primarily because Daisy Dad does story time while I'm doing something much more entertaining like cleaning the kitchen or folding laundry.  I'm the first line of defense for ALL the new picture books that are processed at the library, so I usually grab them before they go on the shelves.  I've gathered some great ones

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-8497475889011971382011-03-05T15:19:00.002-06:002011-03-05T16:31:14.314-06:00

At the beginning of the year, I made my "top 10" reading goals for this year. Number 7 was the following: 7. Plan ahead! One of my biggest hang ups is not thinking in advance about what I want to read -- I'm always being swayed by what's on the shelf at the library or what I see on other blogs (simply known as reading ADD). In order to take control of my shelves, I plan on a personal monthly

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-30713763311456376442011-03-04T20:26:00.000-06:002011-03-04T20:26:11.568-06:00

Left Neglected by Lisa Genova My enjoyment rating: 3 of 5 stars (possibly 2.5 out of 5) Book source:  Public library Sarah Nickerson has it all – a highly successful career, three beautiful children (named, crazily enough, after Peanuts characters – Charlie, Lucy & Linus), a house in the suburbs, a vacation home in Vermont, and an adoring husband. All of it comes crashing down with one single

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-10746967892192126722011-03-01T13:41:00.000-06:002011-03-01T13:41:07.780-06:00

Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 stars Book source:  Public library Reason I read it:  Black history month -- mother/daughter book club 2nd runner up! Awards:  Newbery Medal Winner 2000 Bud, Not Buddy has a collection of clues: A handful of flyers and a bag full of rocks, that his mother left him. Without any knowledge of why these items are import, Bud,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-61695625697506230812011-02-26T21:17:00.002-06:002011-02-27T12:40:07.978-06:00

Books:  Please Don't Eat the Daises AND The Snake Has All the Lines by Jean Kerr My enjoyment rating:  both -- 4 out of 5 stars -- but an edge to Snake!  Book source:  Public library Jean Kerr was a mother of 6, the wife of famed theatre critic, Walter Kerr, a playwright, author, and laugh out loud funny woman. Her essay/anthologies – Please Don’t Eat the Daisies (made famous by Doris Day

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-9704552549562865592011-02-23T17:09:00.001-06:002011-02-23T17:09:40.783-06:00

It's PTA fundraising time again, so volunteer responsibilities have taken over book blogging.  That, and I had to spend 4 hours in a cardiologist's office today for my very first stress test.  I learned I had "mitral valve leakage" -- I'm still not sure what that is!Good news...I've finished three books, now I must find time to review them!

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-14897876211750601992011-02-18T12:28:00.000-06:002011-02-18T12:28:52.137-06:00

Book:  The Coral Thief by Rebecca Stott My enjoyment rating:  3 out of 5 stars Book club Rating: This only managed a C from my book club members. Book Source:  Book club kit from public library. Summary from B&N: Paris, 1815. Daniel Connor, a young medical student from Edinburgh, has arrived to study anatomy at the Jardin des Plantes—only to realize that his letters of introduction and

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-11558388964456434932011-02-15T21:36:00.000-06:002011-02-15T21:36:43.785-06:00

  Book: Washington City is Burning by Harriette Gillem Robinet My rating: 2 out of 5 stars Daisy Daughter rating: 4 out of 5 stars I suggested this book as something we could read for Black History month -- from the dust jacked it seemed to have a nice blend of historical facts surrounding the British invasion of Washington DC during the war of 1812, the role slaves played in

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-20926275973355410332011-02-14T12:18:00.001-06:002011-02-14T12:50:02.319-06:00

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's is a weekly event to celebrate what we are reading for the week as well as books completed the previous week. We've gone from being completely SNOWED IN -- to -- opening up the windows in the house and wearing shorts!!  Crazy weather! But it did allow me to finish quite a few (in my

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-49664244136489593152011-02-14T11:55:00.000-06:002011-02-14T11:55:31.950-06:00

Yi Wen Liang  Thanks to all who entered.  True Random Number Generator Min: 2Max: 122 Result: 106 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-51650109098959750082011-02-09T11:03:00.000-06:002011-02-09T11:03:33.530-06:00

It's another snow day -- no school, no library -- but it's amazing how books still open and pages still turn when everything else is closed! I'm wrapped up in The Coral Thief and envisioning post revolutionary France and the isle of St. Helena where Napoleon was exiled.  Love being lost in book fantasy in the middle of snow storm. Carry on.

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-2513111493340949782011-02-08T00:30:00.011-06:002011-02-08T00:30:00.888-06:00

Chocolate is overrated -- what everyone wants this time of year is a good book -- and a little romance to go with it! And to thank my readers and to "show them some love" I am giving away the following: Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin Summary from Goodreads: Rachel has always been the good girl- until her thirtieth birthday, when her longtime friend Darcy throws her a party. That night,

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-20744834836579573222011-02-07T01:00:00.003-06:002011-02-14T11:56:08.048-06:00

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's is a weekly event to celebrate what we are reading for the week as well as books completed the previous week. Kids were out of school on Friday because of snow, more snow in the forecast for this week -- if I see another flake I think I will freak!  I live in the South for a reason! 

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-71111503560892965672011-02-06T18:39:00.001-06:002011-02-06T22:36:56.998-06:00

Planting Dandelions: Field Notes From a Semi-Domesticated Life by Kyran Pittman My enjoyment rating: 4 of 5 stars Book source:  Received an ARC from the author (I was not compensated in any way for my review). Sensitive reader:  Language, including the F-Bomb; some sexual innuendo. Book release date:  April 2011 Dandelions – the pesky weed that proliferates most yards that all master

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-77172575256230830412011-02-04T16:55:00.005-06:002011-02-10T18:18:30.955-06:00

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool My enjoyment rating: 5 of 5 stars Book Source:  Public library (but I loved it so much, I will be purchasing a copy for my own library!) Juvenile Fiction -- Newbery Medal Winner 2011 Abilene Tucker is riding the rails, quite literally, into the town of Manifest, Kansas. She’s been shipped by her father to spend the summer with Shady Howard– and man she

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-52847922486061034622011-01-31T01:00:00.002-06:002011-02-06T22:11:04.517-06:00

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's is a weekly event to celebrate what we are reading for the week as well as books completed the previous week. A very slow reading week -- lots of PTA prep work to get ready for our BOOK FAIR!  I will be in literary nirvana all week...hope you aren't jealous! But a few books read (or

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-35496461891232685892011-01-30T20:46:00.001-06:002011-01-30T21:54:13.099-06:00

The Rosewood Casket by Sharyn McCrumb My rating: 3 of 5 stars Book source:  Loaned to me by a friend The Stargill boys have all returned home at the news that their father, Randall, is dying. During the time they wait for “the end” they confront past sibling conflicts, rivalries, and unanswered family questions. They must also solve the mysterious appearance of a “box of bones” given to them

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-37336582024291732832011-01-29T13:07:00.000-06:002011-01-29T13:07:28.503-06:00

Today was the first day of our Scholastic Book Fair: I wish someone would wheel carts of books into my house... I purchased several from this cart already... My two boys (and a friend) sampling the many offerings.... A very familiar literary character and me.... When I'm done being PTA president, I'm secretly hoping the book fair chair will be open! (Photos courtesy of Mandy Shoptaw)

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-40094658572532763632011-01-27T22:22:00.001-06:002011-01-27T22:22:31.303-06:00

Last week we were snowed out -- this week it was 60 degrees -- what a difference a week makes! We were few in number because of the schedule change, but that didn't lessen the discussion. The consensus:  Everyone LOVED True Grit!!  As is always the case, we all thought it was better than the movie -- funnier, bloodier, "grittier" -- but that the Coen Brothers did an excellent job with their

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-7207326498535988422011-01-24T09:04:00.002-06:002011-01-30T20:52:00.748-06:00

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's is a weekly event to celebrate what we are reading for the week as well as books completed the previous week. Vomit and diarrhea have invaded our house...I've been up since 3am with my 4yr old standing over the toilet. Oh. Joy. With being home all day, and him on the couch, you would

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-66204381528035711462011-01-21T12:19:00.001-06:002011-01-21T12:23:43.457-06:00

   Book: Kilmeny of the Orchard by L. M. Montgomery Enjoyment rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars Book Source: e-book from Project Gutenberg (the first book read on my Nook™!) Challenge: L. M. Montgomery Reading Challenge sponsored by Reading to Know Eric Marshall has accepted a teaching post in the quaint village of Lindsay, with the intent of staying but the few brief months to finish the term

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-76284288801478636622011-01-20T14:39:00.001-06:002011-01-20T20:51:06.259-06:00

  When it snows in the South, everything comes to a halt. Schools closed at Noon. Grocery store was packed. The roads are not that bad, but by tonight, they could be snow covered and very slick. So, we made the decision to postpone. True Grit, your discussion will have to wait one more week. 

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-34444032644407336462011-01-19T10:20:00.001-06:002011-01-19T10:20:56.938-06:00

Our first mother daughter book club of 2011 was eventful as always. However, after having two months off, I was expecting the girls to be bouncing off the walls -- their calm demeanor surprised me.  I think it must have something to do with the cold weather! We discussed The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry, a satirical homage to vintage children's literature -- filled with abandoned babies in

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-66957724989126725192011-01-18T07:47:00.002-06:002011-01-18T13:22:01.697-06:00

Justpeachy36 Thanks to all who entered. Up next:  Follower Love Giveaway Hop is scheduled for February 8th - 13th!  True Random Number GeneratorMin: 2Max: 107Result: 107(wow...when does the last entry ever get chosen? And witnessed by my husband.)Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-71209388227880338402011-01-17T12:07:00.002-06:002011-01-18T13:26:57.444-06:00

Early Candlelight by Maud Hart Lovelace My rating: 3 of 5 stars -- lovely writing, lovely story, less than stellar ending. Book source:  Personal copy Sensitive reader:  a wonderful love story without any objectionable material. My adoration of Maud Hart Lovelace began late in life…as in a year ago when I discovered her juvenile writings (The Betsy-Tacy Series) through numerous book blogs. Our

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-88648227004663010592011-01-16T18:14:00.001-06:002011-01-17T10:45:56.714-06:00

Candy Bomber: The Story of the Berlin Airlift's "Chocolate Pilot" by Michael O. Tunnell My rating: 4 of 5 stars Book Source:  Public Library Mother/Daughter Book Club recommendation With 2 sticks of chewing gum, Gail Halvorsen, an air force pilot, changed the course of thousands of lives of German children following the end of WWII. He started what would be called "Operation Little Vittles

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-46953095953741596082011-01-14T00:30:00.005-06:002011-01-14T00:30:00.316-06:00

Not only do I dream about books, I dream of someday taking a vacation all by myself to a cabin in the mountains with nothing but my Nook and a stack of TBRs.  No kids. No husband. Just me and the written page. In the mean time, I'm hoping to make someone's dream come true by offering a free book!  Thanks to Kathy from I am a Reader not a Writer and Martha from Reviews by Martha for sponsoring

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-56056121171445933202011-01-11T13:28:00.001-06:002011-01-11T14:07:24.715-06:00

  I know we are 11 days in to 2011, but it's never too late to set some reading resolutions.  Looking back on my reading goals for 2010, I didn't do too badly.  Here they are: 1. Finish all challenges: YES!  I only committed to one, and I completed it -- Women Unbound.  2. Read more local authors: I didn't read nearly the number I set forth to read -- but I read one, True

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-38728250738799320972011-01-10T12:37:00.003-06:002011-01-10T12:49:52.503-06:00

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool Summary from B&N: Abilene Tucker feels abandoned. Her father has put her on a train, sending her off to live with an old friend for the summer while he works a railroad job. Armed only with a few possessions and her list of universals, Abilene jumps off the train in Manifest, Kansas, aiming to learn about the boy her father once was. Having heard stories

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-34747644143158416712011-01-09T21:44:00.033-06:002011-01-24T08:38:05.306-06:00

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's is a weekly event to celebrate what we are reading for the week as well as books completed the previous week. Nothing like a little snow (or a lot for where I live) to help put you in the reading mood.  Schools are canceled, libraries are closed, I will be hunkered down for the day

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-83149072088530278192011-01-09T14:07:00.000-06:002011-01-09T14:07:29.549-06:00

  Book:  Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford My personal enjoyment rating:  3 out of 5 stars (It was only OK) Book source:  Personal copy Sensitive reader:  There is nothing objectionable in this novel. Henry Lee is caught between loyalty to his family, his country and his dearest friend. As a first generation Chinese-American, Henry is subject to abuse from his fellow

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-38772505895425371732011-01-02T22:33:00.001-06:002011-01-09T21:09:54.883-06:00

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's is a weekly event to celebrate what we are reading for the week as well as books completed the previous week. A new year and a new round of books! I hope everyone had a scrumptious literary holiday -- because I certainly did! COMPLETED LAST WEEK: True Grit by Charles Portis (5 stars! 

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-29444568004756305442011-01-01T10:47:00.001-06:002011-01-01T10:49:06.372-06:00

 Book: Charms for the Easy Life by Kaye Gibbons My enjoyment rating: 3 out of 5 stars Book source: borrowed copy Three generations of North Carolina women: Charlie Kate, Sophia and Margaret, all fiercely independent, highly educated, and thriving in the life they have created, all without the help of any man. Charlie Kate is a self taught “healing” woman, who becomes the local, rural

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-1646887708668885912010-12-31T10:04:00.001-06:002011-03-05T14:21:42.756-06:00

Another year has come to an end, and a few more books have been read.This is what I accomplished this year:The Wordy Shipmates by Sarah Vowell Betsy and Tacy Go Over the Big Hill by Maud Hart Lovelace People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks Sugar by Bernice McFadden Murder at Longbourne by Tracy Kiely Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown, by Maud Hart Lovelace Skin and other Stories by Roald Dahl The Glass

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-3139159080260134102010-12-29T09:52:00.000-06:002010-12-29T09:52:03.249-06:00

Book:  Little Heathens:  (Hard Times and High Spirits on an Iowa Farm During the Great Depression) by Mildred Armstrong Kalish My rating:  2 out of 5 stars Book source:  Library copy Mildred Armstrong Kalish shares her memories of growing up with an extended family on a farm in Iowa during the Great Depression. As one would expect, they depend on each other through good times and bad and

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-57728357339553325112010-12-28T09:41:00.002-06:002010-12-28T10:08:19.805-06:00

   True Grit by Charles Portis (Arkansas author)   My rating: 5 of 5 stars   Book source:  Library copy   Sensitive reader:  mild descriptions of gun shot wounds, gun fighting and SNAKES!   Challenge: Support Your Local Authors perpetual challenge Mattie Ross, a 14 year old dynamo, is out to exact vengeance on one Tom Chaney, a former work hand for her family. Tom has killed her

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-69569525807015764722010-12-24T18:45:00.000-06:002010-12-24T18:45:08.730-06:00

  I made this for Christmas Eve dinner...it was delicious!  And a perfect treat for breakfast tomorrow! Cherry-Walnut Crumb Cake Recipe By Woman's Day Kitchen from Woman's Day Active Time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 1 hour Recipe Ingredients Cooking spray, for the pan 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 6 Tbsp butter, melted 1 cup walnuts

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-89798759657631473772010-12-24T01:00:00.030-06:002010-12-24T01:00:06.117-06:00

Have a peaceful and joyous holiday -- see you back in a few days!

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-68607207847215206122010-12-23T07:10:00.001-06:002010-12-23T15:15:24.230-06:00

AND THE WINNER IS: Benita who said:I've not yet been to Ireland, but I'd love to go soon.True Random Number Generator Min: 1Max: 67Result: 31 Powered by RANDOM.ORG(if selected winner does not respond within 24 hours of being contacted, another winner will be selected). Thank you to all who entered to win -- and for following my blog.  I hope you come back soon!

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721785785376588191.post-71197031963772310682010-12-21T00:30:00.010-06:002010-12-21T00:30:00.405-06:00

It's giveaway time again!  Thanks to Kathy at I am a Reader not a Writer, for getting us all in the holiday spirit! This is a quick giveaway -- just a brief 48 hours of fun -- and it leaves you with enough time to finish up any leftover holiday shopping!  Giveaway will close at 11:59pm CST on Wednesday, December 22nd and is good for US/Canada participants. For my holiday offering, I have one

Melissa Mc (Gerbera Daisy Diaries)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11605934758292568280noreply@blogger.com21