C.  (Comment, never msg). C. (Comment, never msg).’s Comments (group member since Jan 30, 2014)



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Apr 22, 2024 11:11AM

125611 I asked: if your copy has “The Man Who Could Work Miracles”, I would enjoy talking about that original story too. Everyone is welcome to discuss books we have posted, any length of time ago.

I often find that we need ten star grades, which go much farther than halves and are not equal like people imagine. I loved the creativity of both stories but after needing to remove a couple of stars for some justifiable, fair criticisms; there were only three stars to give. That amount does not match how much I admired and appreciated the depths of discovery and inventiveness in both stories, which will make our reviews and conversations important.

One conversation aspect I propose is that I would enjoy drawing comparisons of time and place travel stories. In most of them, no machine was needed. I can only think of "Back To The Future" as an alternative. This vehicle is instantly different for being able to drive and for being in the digital age that could program a return to Doc's & Marty's origins. In most stories I know, a special location or circumstance brought a protagonist into another land, or a different time at the same place. Once characters knew what the threshold or impetus was, it was not spontaneous but all they needed to do was walk or touch that place.

The most recent I read were memorable Canadian novels. I disliked the last two but most of these are lovely and poignant. This is my preferrence order.

“Who Is Frances Rain?” Margaret Buffie 1987
“Ghosts Of James Bay” John Wilson 2006
“The Root Cellar” Janet Lunn 1981
“Tunnels Of Time” Mary Harelkin Bishop 2000
“The Olden Days Coat” Margaret Laurence, Muriel Wood 1979
“Time Ghost” Welwyn Wilton Katz 1994
“Ghosts Of The Titanic” Julie Lawson 2011
“Alison’s Ghosts” Mary Alice & John Downie 1984
“The Stone In The Meadow” Karleen Bradford 1984
“Yesterday’s Doll” Cora Taylor 1987
“The Shadowy Horses” Susanna Kearsley 1997

Time window stories, I will call them, I have read from other countries’ authors are these. I am talking about stories in which a characters sees or strolls in windows; not novels merely including other times.

“Time For Andrew” and “The Doll In The Garden” Mary Downing Hahn
“The Sixty-Eight Rooms” Marianne Malone 2010
“Tom's Midnight Garden” Philippa Pearce 1958
“The Ghost Belonged To Me” and “Ghosts I Have Been” Richard Peck
“House Of Dark Shadows” Robert Liparulo 2008
“Dearest Grandmama” Catherine Brighton 1991

As I look forward to you taking over and giving me ideas to have fun considering, as well as joining in the angles I propose; I will remark on an early part I can guarantee you have passed. This story being published in 1895 makes a difference in programming. There was nothing digital and I don't know if analogue clock alarms could be set yet. I think getting bells to ring when the clock hands reach a certain spot, entails simple mechanics. If that is true, programming is possible.

When the scientist, unnamed and called the "traveller", demonstrated his pretty vehicle model to supper guests, I wondered immediately why he did not program a return, instead of wasting the lovely little model. Did the capacity to program simple clocks not exist, or was this a failure for this to occur to an otherwise broad thinking author? It would be an even more superb demonstration to see the little model reappearing in a minute. It needed only to be fitted with an analogue clock to achieve programming capabilities. On the person-sized machine too, there were only two levers, I think, for the scientist to press forward or pull back.

Another question I would enjoy considering is: are the majority authors who needed no machine, more original and creative? At least those few who work out explanations for their travelling windows, or who build complex purposes and results therein? I make an exception of our favourite film because its machine and travel parameters are explained in memorable detail. Was Mr. Wells thinking inside a box, for believing a scientific vehicle was necessary, instead of a Holy place in nature? He certainly had little control of the vehicle, which stayed in one spot, except the speed of time elapsing.

I suggest that what was most thought provoking about his novel, besides whether or not he was first to publish a story of a window in time, were his musings on how humans developed or declined. My disagreements of them are part of what came down to my three star decision but I liked that he considered the effects of society's decisions. He had a blatent prejudice of the strength and health of vegetarian living, which is not limited to the year 1895. Do I look diminutive to you? I also disagreed with his notion that fighting or dealing with negativity is needed to maintain our intelligence. This author's commentary on what makes or breaks society is where my Dad's delight dropped and I proceeded with the story myself, at night.

Goodness gracious, peace must and will certainly reign, as our healthiest and wisest state of being! It is small minded to suggest that banishing war would dull anyone's mind. There is much to do in our joy, freedom from conflict, and in our places of peace.
Apr 15, 2024 07:08PM

125611 I finished this book because Dad was in the mood to hear reading when I stayed with him last week. We finished about 6 chapters together and then I found time to finish it gradually at night.

I made this discussion heading last year and we can sput it to good use. It wasn't spoiled after all by a review I saw. I just wish she had not said anything about any contents. What is most jarring is a more positive, clearer difference from my small recall of the classic film.

While not quite buddy-reading, I invite you & Shirin to read this at your leisure and then comment afterwards. I will do the same. It occurred to me that this really is a book to talk about, ask questions and opinions of one another, and remark upon together.

If you have it, my copy includes a short story “The Man Who Could Work Miracles” is also conversation inducing. I wound up with three stars apiece for various complaints or omissions. It is not for lack of originality, intrigue, or impressive settings and premises in both stories. Love, Carolyn.
Apr 03, 2024 06:48PM

125611 I might delay reading Sophie Kinsella with you because I will be going to stay with Dad next week. I will watch for e-mail daily on faster internet. If he is interested, it might be fun to read "The Time Machine" with Dad. It is his Brother's favourite movie. You might read that novel along with us! Love, Carolyn.
Apr 02, 2024 11:26AM

125611 I will happily read this, when you want to laugh and be on-line regularly to talk about novels. I would even be happy to dive into these humourous escapades after my present Martha Grimes mystery, if you felt ready to. Love, Carolyn.
Apr 02, 2024 11:18AM

125611 Kerri, I am content to read this anytime you want to. Shirin is still interested but on a lower priority. I understand that means she doesn't mind if she reads it herself in the future. I would like to read it soon because some stupid reviewer spoiled it! I reported them to Goodreads with the "flag" button.

You understand that most of what you hide is not a spoiler according to me, therefore this reader went too far if it is coming from me. I don't suppose it is a question and answer solution novel like a mystery but maybe there is a mission whose outcome we want to read about. Nothing detailed is spoiled but what they find in the future should not have been blurted out. Way too many people think reporting what's in books is a review, a literal "book report", instead of describing how you feel about it and naturally, drawing examples.

The sooner I read a book I have saved without knowing anything about it for 50 years, the sooner I will stop being mad. It will become a story I know and have impressions about. With Shirin opting out of Sophie Kinsella and lowering the priority on this, I am game to read either, when you feel well enough for regular on-line contributing.

No family should miss three loved ones a year or two apart. However, perhaps hanging out with friends and doing joint reading cheers you up; like you, Shirin, and Leeanne did for me. Love, your friend, Carolyn.
Apr 02, 2024 10:50AM

125611 Shirin, it is nice to have answers to our short questions. I hope you help us finish talking about "The Dream Thieves" too. Yes, we are fans of this series but that is the reason I want to take a break, to read "Lament". If it turns out I love it, great but if I do not, it gets an older book is out of the way. There is only one sequel, called "Ballad". No matter what, I have our series that I love waiting for me, to finish on a positive note.

I will be very happy to have "Opal" in English soon. If Kerri & I read "Lament" as a break, we wondered if you would join us or if you would wait until we go back to the Raven Boys series.

I look forward to but am in no rush to read "The Time Machine", which is short. If you are unavailable for some time, thank you for saying you won't mind skipping it.

I never read romance novels. I love humour and I am a woman. I am not being prejudiced about the term "chick lit", which I usually avoided too. But after several years of hell and hardship, it is darkness and violence I refuse. I want to smile, laugh, have fun, and read something that is not serious. You know where we will be if you find yourself in the mood to join us, my friend. :) You have let us know not to plan on it.

I enjoy autobiographies by myself. I don't ask anyone to join me. However, please never call actors who write their own stories a "non writer" again. Matthew Perry is among THE BEST authors. There is a scornful assumption that because someone acted first, they can't discover they are born authors. Every author had a different job first! I said that in my review of Michael J. Fox's first autobiography "Lucky Man". The attitude "It is only a celebrity" makes me angry. IT IS A PERSON TELLING THEIR STORY.

Maud Montgomery, Maggie Stiefvater, Anne Perry, Maureen Jennings, Ian Rankin had different jobs before they dared to write. What if David Gemmel washed dishes? Does that prepare him for being a better writer, than Matthew Perry's SKILL and TRAINING at professionally reading and performing in the English language? Matthew constantly wrote scripts for fiction shows and movies.

Mike Fox loved writing and playing guitar in school but became an actor. It turns out, he is an even better author than actor and that is impressive. His autobiographies about his life, Shirin, are so good: I love him better than any author, INCLUDING FICTIONAL ONES. I dare anyone to read one page of Mike Fox's and to deny the quality of a born, masterful author who is also funnier than anyone I have ever seen.

I remind people that all authors had different jobs. "Celebrities" are not a low species. They are people. Matthew Perry was an exceptional writer and Matty & Mike Fox are my Canadian heroes. I feel good seeing any of Mike's pages, a positive experience that leaves me feeling inspired. He has a way with words that amazes me.
Mar 17, 2024 09:54AM

125611 In remembrance of my Mom and Grandpa: Happy St. Patrick's Day to you all!
We also send love on this day to our missing orange cat, with an Irish name and happy, strong energy to match it. With love and good, Irish Spirit, Carolyn & our family!
Mar 12, 2024 11:15AM

125611 Shirin, Kerri & I would like to read "Confessions Of A Shopaholic" and "The Time Machine". If you are uninterested, we can proceed. Please tell us.
Canada (34 new)
Feb 29, 2024 06:40PM

125611 You know our cat, Conan, took a vacation from a rare confinement at home. We have always known he is alive and wants to be home with us. When he originally received prayers and well-wishes; he had just set out for this one time trip.

Cats don't travel in a Manitoba winter. Bunking in and enjoying new friends, made him appear "satisfied as is". Every spring, I know Conan has the strong pull to return but needs assistance. I believe he sensed danger in places, like loose dogs. In about late April, the trees & leaves will provide enough cover for him to make his move.

His hosts stopped looking for us, if they ever did. Conan needs encouragement while he is young, to leave and seek other help. The person who at last, looks for his tattoo or picture on-line, might be a short trip away. THE TIME IS RIGHT!

Please send our Son, a joint psychic push of encouragement. Please pray together with us, for Conan's protection and guidance all the way home to us.... or to a savvy helper!

His family medical history makes our unique spiritual care important. My Mom believes in the power of combined prayer. Thank you and God bless you, from Conan's family!

* (Please never private-message. Comment boxes are what I use). *
Feb 21, 2024 10:36AM

125611 Shirin, can you catch-up soon? Kerri & I have conversed all we can without you adding to it. A note about whether or not you are interested in "Confessions Of A Shopaholic" or "The Time Machine" will be appreciated. If you were uninterested, it wouldn't matter if you were busy and we could read those ones. :-)
Canada (34 new)
Feb 20, 2024 07:17PM

125611 Happy Louis Riel Day for holiday Monday, February 19! Louis is after 153 years, posthumously recognized for history, as Manitoba's first premier! https://winnipegsun.com/news/provinci...
Feb 08, 2024 12:06PM

125611 Kerri, you have not said if you started watching "Corner Gas". If you have, I'd love to have your first impressions. Continuing it on-line saves me mailing the video files and suggests you are enjoying it enough to continue, which is wonderful.

Ladies, please never compose any writing on-line. You write in a text or Word document first, save it to your harddive, then post it. I would be astonished and wonder why you weren't careful, if you said your sole review copy were the single one you posted!

Yes, the keyboard goes wonky sometimes, coming up with odd apostrophes and quotation marks and not giving question marks. This is only in comments because I pre-write reviews as I urge you to. I sometimes post as is, reboot, and edit. I also have apostrophes, quotation marks, and the question mark saved on a desktop sticky note to cut & paste as required. They have come in handy a lot.

Technology is frustrating, says anyone who has used dial-up internet for 13 years, already a decade after high-speed was invented. I am perplexed that you don't seem to be shopping around for the lowest price for the same laptop you want. It sounds like there is a set figure and you are resigned to paying it. If your Sister has used the better laptop for awhile, time to give it to you for awhile. :-) Thank you for updating us.

This is all I can say until Shirin contributes her inputs and answers our questions about interest in other books. She is busy but if she is uninterested in "Confessions Of A Shopaholic" or "The Time Machine", we might as well proceed when *you* can post daily. My reading schedule is open. Your friend, Carolyn.
Feb 02, 2024 11:15AM

125611 Kerri, I am glad you are well again. Shirin, I am happy you read our reading journey and will add to it yourself. Shirin, are you interested in "Confessions Of A Shopaholic" at all, when you have time? I want to have fun and will be choosing books that make me smile or inspire and impress me! Are you interested in reading "Lament"? I would like to read that earlier fairytale before diving into "Blue Lily, Lily Blue". I would do it myself if interest or time were low for the two of you.

Yes, when one write an autobiography or non-fiction conversation, family privacy needs to be balanced with the message and help you want to give the world. Matthew Perry and Rob Lowe did not have wives when they were addicted and maybe Mike Fox did no more than disappoint his wife when he got drunk. However, it would have been helpful and inspiring if someone had said they got aggresive with family members or roommates and how they all dealt with it afterwards. Here is a new quote that occurs to me to write: "Anyone you shock is less important than those you help".

I am amazed if neither of you ladies have seen "Remington Steele", except of course that Shirin's first language is Persian. Do a lot of 1980s shows get to Iran eventually? It had time to travel, haha. It is my favourite show of my childhood. It is a compliment to Doris Roberts that I didn't think I could see her as anyone but the loveable "Mildred Krebbs", at the Remington Steele detective agency. But she owned her role as Marie Barone and blew me away in "Everybody Loves Raymond" too, with just a look. THAT is an actress.

As for our wonderful book series, I am surprised you don't automatically surmise, as I do, that Blue's Dad is supremely magical. They all are in their family and friend group. I think he is so important or powerful somehow that it is the reason he disappeared. The key is that he vanished upon Blue's birth and it will be interesting to know why. One must be able to co-exist with their offspring in the same space. That reunion will be informative and also emotional: meeting one's Dad!

Blue's Mom and relatives have had all Blue's years to test what she can do. There is room to be surprised and to develop her abilities. However, I think it is only readers who do not know her capabilities. I look forward to seeing more of them like you do.

I am sure the title refers to Blue as the upcoming protagonist. I recall however, that there were blue lillies in Ronan's livingroom, which he brought home after seeing these new, amazing flowers in a dream.

Any questions and ideas about these novels on your parts? It is fun to guess about the next novel and what resuming the Welsh quest will be like. I do not mind letting the excitement simmer and reading "Lament" beforehand. Your friend, Carolyn.
Jan 29, 2024 07:40PM

Jan 29, 2024 04:25PM

125611 I am glad, Leeanne. We all want to be supportive but have also heard a lot about people misplacing protestations. My incentive for raising this topic is to see if others feel as I do. There is a difference between harmful, injust things that should never have occurred, versus terminology that has changed or well-meaning populations or eras needing education.

We often see reviewers get advocacy wrong in books. I just reviewed a spider book. One person banned it because the spider in the year 1980 wore an Aboriginal costume for Hallowe'en. Sure, we wouldn't dare risk misrepresenting or offending now, although no one objects to the cowboy costume. I have gone out as an East Indian, where an Indian friend proudly helped me wear a sahri for the occasion. However, the thrill of BEING those people for an evening was the point; not looking down on them.

I try to tell reviewers that what we should object to in older times is harm or inferior treatment: things that were never okay, ever. Not words or concepts we recently identified as off-putting.
Jan 29, 2024 03:01PM

125611 I noticed an interesting disclaimer that must have been added recently to the comedy channel on which "Three's Company" airs. It succeeds "Family Ties", which simply airs directly. It is as wonderfully suitable and helpful to today's concerns in 2024 as it was from 1982 to 1989.

May John Ritter and Suzanne Somers rest in peace. I appreciate Joyce DeWitt, Jenilee Harris, Priscilla Barnes, and Richard Kline. However, you couldn't pay me to watch it anymore. I hate religious intolerance. "Three's Company's" premise entailed disdain of civil unions, not wanting romantic partners to live together without church marriages.

I suspect the social justice that networks are concerned about was joking about gays being effeminate but they were accepted by all the managers. Common-law couples or sexuality outside marriage were not, as if it were the year 1600 in Pennsylvania or Utah, instead of 1982 in California. I like the disclaimer's goal. How do you feel? Here it is.

"The following presentation is a product of its time. It depicts prejudices that were wrong then and are unacceptable today.

Exhibiting work like this allows viewers to engage in thought or discussion that educates and promotes the importance of social justice and inclusivity."
Canada (34 new)
Jan 14, 2024 09:14PM

125611 Happy new year, worldwide friends! I thought those far from Canada and the northern United States would like a look at our zany weather. With prayers that all animals and people will be safe, comfortably warm, dry, and well fed: this is our only cold period of the winter. It has been unusually warm so stay inside and drive safely if you have to work outside of home. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&r...

Our town is on this list but we can see our frozen windowpanes; no need for a weather report! I regular towel them off from becoming seas and keep the autumn ladybug colony living with us, from freezing or drowning on those waterlogged windowsills.
Jan 14, 2024 11:24AM

125611 Matthew Perry's autobiography is the frank but humorously told story of his life overall, from conception. Addiction runs through a lot of it. Anyone would be swept away by his confiding storytelling style no matter what is in it. There are a skittish or unreasonable few, who were perhaps seeking a yearbook of the television show. The benefit of an autobiography is: the author describes ways in which he wants to be understood and readers learn about the author outside famous roles. Trust me, ignore any flack you see and enjoy it yourself.

Well told stories engross anyone. I would have admired and enjoyed Matthew's story before addiction affected our family. Since then, Kerri, I have observed that most accounts of it, especially Rob Lowe's, are inadequate. Even Mike guarded what he wrote, which is not very helpful because they outline only in general that addiction is not good but reveal no terrible examples of why. We need to know how dangerous, violent, stressful, or depressing people's dynamics can get; even in a stable recovery, which is new to me. People need to dare to tell more to truly show what can happen and how to overcome it. Matthew is a God-send.

Leah is no longer doing her show. I guess you watched it if you know Shelly's name. David is missing too apparently. Enough was revealed and Leah and her team won awards for their work. Faces bullies was tax exempt money is brave and she is further suing them for harrassing friends, colleagues, and herself. On "King Of Queens", Doug gave as many clapbacks as Carrie did, so the show was even and funny.

On "Everybody Loves Raymond", Patricia Heaton had many lovely moments, especially at the end. Too bad antagonism wasn't toned down earlier. I tried the show, which is outragously funny most of the time, because Doris Roberts is in it. I treasure her from "Remington Steele".

You didn't reply here but I hope you received my letter on December 30, talking happily about gifts. I don't know if Tom Cruise is involved with David's bad deeds inside closed doors of scientology. What I see is that he is sweet and generous to his fans, the most courteous of actors to interviewers, and an actor whose work I have appreciated growing-up. An discussion included with Ron's blu-ray is a lovely conversation about how Tom loves learning every aspect of film making from the ground up.

It would be an uncomfortable position if he did not know what David did and needed to distance himself from the negativity but did not want to appear to shrug off his religion choice either. I do not assume anyone is guilty by association. I wondered if Lisa Presley and John Travolta backed away from the religion years ago.

It is too bad John Krasinsky is not doing more "Jack Ryan". We have season four to purchase eventually. Ron suspects John will want to do more shows or movies in this successful, rewarding area.

You wrote an interesting quote about Richard but need to site where it is from. "Dream me the world".... was that merely when Richard was going to his parents' party in Washington? Ronan is not a child and that would be a dramatic thing to say for a week-end trip.

Thank you for reminding me of Barrington Whelk. I remembered Richard evading him by car. I recall now that he was in the forest and threatened Neeve, who said a sacrifice is interpreted as hard to do. It is terrible that they assumed nature would want a death. All Adam had to do, even though he also feared something rough, was agree to be the leyline's and I imagine the forest's helper / ally / maintenance man.

I hope Maggie doesn't get formulaic or repetitive: a bad guy visiting the psychic's house, someone disappearing, Adam being insulted by help, Ronan having a temper.... Maura could certainly have written something and said why she had to be brief and go without phoning them or leaving a voicemail! If you are going to write in the modern era, make use of it resourcefully!

Haha, I myself hope those cars are accounted for and not left dangling. I would not feel comfortable taking a free car but other people might have flexible morals. They could be donated to the poor, or funraise for charity.

You raise interesting ideas to contemplate. Maybe Ronan can bring himself and friends / family into locations chosen by thought. If he can locate them, or get an idea of the place, maybe his mind can convey. That might differ from being advised to not overuse energy on needless things. Maybe transporting directs the mind but does not remove energy, like dreaming objects up. Travelling to Blue's family would be an appropriate use, if that were the case.

I hope to have Shirin's responses and additions soon, to all posts. Unfair to only answer the end! ;> I look forward to a letter from you in e-mail too, Kerri.

I have wondered if there is a drop in interest to chat after a book is finished but we are hesitant to say much until everyone finishes. Lags do dampen the thrill of looking for replies, which is why I am glad there are three of us. One of us usually writes something for us to see. :)

Unless you ladies have ideas about this, I guess all we can do is post regularly while we read, with chapter headings freeing us to type whatever comes to mind. Then not wait long to talk about everything when we are finished. I know the Holy season has our attention for awhile: with celebrations, home time, and visits.

I am excited to jump into "Blue Lily, Lily Blue" and will see what Shirin says. My idea which I am glad you share, is to savour the thrill and read "Lament" beforehand. I want to know more about Blue's cousin, like how they are related. Maybe we'll get a backstory on the household they share, with Persephone and the bitchy lady whose name I forget, because I like her less. That is why I could hardly remember Barrington. My mind is happy to skip what is unpleasant and store what is wonderful!
Jan 10, 2024 11:31AM

125611 Hi, Kerri. I have conveyed as well as I can in my review and here that Matthew Perry's book is very funny, if you catch his humor. He wrote that the humour he brings to the show is from his childhood in Ontario, so people should recognize it a lot better than they did. Also, it is as anecdotal as any other autobiography.

I don't know where on Earth anyone got the idea it only talks about addiction. Its focus and conclusion warns of those dangers and he describes where in his life story he got caught in it. However, this is a bonafide autobiography: from his parents meeting, babyhood, landing his famous roles, onward.

I think "memoir" discusses one area, like Brooke Shields in her post parton depression book "Down Came The Rain". There is nothing you should dread or find bittersweet. It is a great, well written story the same as Mike Fox mixes humour with hard times. Do you feel bittersweet when you read his autobiography sequels? It is sad he has Parkinson's but he reassures us that he enjoys life, has a purpose, and does the best he can; the same as Matthew's writing does. Do yourself a favour and start his story with pleasure.

You didn't catch my point about the woman criticizing words that are hardly swears. My comparison was of her content choices, not her language. She reads books about murder or war; killing. She accepts violence for entertainment but fans herself in horror over a swear: a common hypocrisy in the United States. You & I talked about this. TV shows are full of shooting, stealing, and other violence but a bit of sexuality or colourful language is balked at. I don't like excess swearing or sexuality. Almost all my reviews are professional. I am not a swearer to call out. Sometimes I let loose with humour or adult language and it feels good. Most people's reactions is favourable or neutral. I certainly abhor profanity regarding Jesus and God; just disrepectful and awful. I have needed their support often!

Yes, the more we acquaint ourselves with or practice something, the more aware we grow of how to read things pertaining to it.

You must have seen Leah Remini's name credited on "The King Of Queens". I like her a lot more personally than her character, which is bossy and bitchy and I feel the same about Penny on "The Big Bang Theory". However, what saves those shows is that there is a lot of love and Kevin James' character in particular shoots back, making their relationship even. Believe me, it isn't fun in real life either, if one person is bitchier and one more often tolerant or affectionate. We need more of that balance soon. Leah herself is assertive and frank, which is fun to watch for most of us who measure things and hold back here and there.

Her bravrey to expose and protest scientology earned the great respect and must help a whole lot of people. If their organization pays taxes, they won't have the fortune to hire numerous people to vouch for them. Getting witnesses to lie in affidavits is common and easy for them because their religion condones "anything to protect their church". A simple search of Leah's name shows that she is sueing the organization for harrassing her family, friends, and colleagues. Her bold personality is her strength against bullies.

It is the show "Everybody Loves Raymond" that has a wife character I loathed. She was undeniably mean in some stories and always called her husband unpleasant names, which he did not do. Ray Romano and Doris Roberts (beloved from my childhood favourite, "Remington Steele") delivered hilarious scenes that I enjoyed. Ray and Kevin are friends from New York.

I am glad that despite being in the cell phone carrying age, you do not linger past looking at something for a few minutes and closing it. I use mine exclusively for voicemail and as a phone if I'm not home to use our landline. When we decorate our homes with photographs, plant life, books, music albums, ornaments; it is for ourselves to enjoy and for company occasionally. If people are over and I leave the room to attend to food, the cats, or something in another room; I hope they are looking around and enjoying our displays and ambiance.

I understand checking messages if we are together for hours. Otherwise, secondary modes of communication are how you stay in touch with people who aren't with you.

Waste is something I can't abide. There is a lot more I am willing to empty out of our home and living space if we sell it for profit, or give it as a gift. I even gather flowerpetals for birthday and Christmas cards. :)

Speaking of which, you must have read my letters that I received "Barbie" for Christmas, too. Ron wants "Oppenheimer" but I have no interest outside of the Canadian politics that concern the way we live here at home. He was happy to receive "Top Gun Maverick" instead and the "Jack Ryan" series. That is political but I love John Krasinski. It concerns many places and cultures in the world, with a fast pace that doesn't let you wait long to finish the DVDs.

Agreed, we don't know where the cars besides Dean's went after Joe's death. I wonder if Maggie indeed consider their usage a bad example for Adam, or if she slipped up in novel details. I have seen errors in novels before, with my memory at least. I remember in "The Other Side Of Midnight" by Simone St. James, a character put down her hat and a few pages later, adjusted it on her head. Some authors and editors are more careful about continuity than others. I would be a great person to hire for this in film making. This is where even authors who let their stories take them anywhere, should jot down some outline notes.

Yes, lakes are much less turbulent than oceans and don't have salt or dangerous wildlife in them. It goes without saying any large body of water can be a risk to encountering rocks, capsizing, swimming fatigue, and strong waves all of a sudden (like for "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald"). However, lakes are nearer land and can be lightly rippling.

I appreciate what you have added, so you are not solely answering people's musings. Let me know if any other thoughts occur to you. I think I have expressed myself fully. I agree that a follow-up novel to the major events was wise and fulfilling, as fans of these characters and the story. You enlighten a more interesting element with their evolvement.

Even though Adam's life altered drastically because it was in view of readers, I propose that they all evolve equally. Except Persephone, the bitchy housemate (what is her name?), and Blue's cousin. Richard moved to Virginia from Washington (I think) and found his purpose. Ronan grieved his Dad and missed his Mom but is doing something about that, along with controlling dream content (literal content). He is aware he has sexual flexibility.

Blue stopped desting rich people or students and has made her most profound friendships. She knows her first boyfriend is not a lover to be. Maura is willing to date, possibly the first time since her husband vanished. She volunteered for who knows what mission. The characters have to stop disappearing after scrying in water bowls and her note should have been detailed.

Noah's family received closure. His remains are not missing or unknown. Did the Latin professor die or was he arrested? Noah's family and police know who killed him, don't they? He asked to be moved where he can appear and interact on Earth for now.

I will enjoy it if you and Shirin present new ideas or questions. I think all mine are out of the bag. :) Shirin will tell us if she wants to read "Lament" or "The Time Machine". I only know of an old film that my Uncle loves, unless I discover otherwise. You must have seen the classic. Acquainting the famous book will be a treat.
Jan 09, 2024 12:51PM

125611 It is fun that artists about whom I am thinking or reading are combining to show up together for me these days. Kerri read Geena Davis's autobiography and I remember thinking I had found "Themla & Louise" despressing. I was keen to see her somewhere else and where does she appear? In a 1981 guest role on "Family Ties"! I was also surprised by Tom Hanks there.

I have been enjoying "The King Of Queens" and "Friends" reruns over lunch daily. Last night, I saw Brooke Shields' documentary, after having read "Down Came The Rain". The documentary showed her funny character on "Friends"! Later, I scrolled a satellite dish episode, reminded that Ben Stiller had been a crazy person on "Friends" too. Ben is of course, the son of two Hollywood and comedy "The King Of Queens" veterans, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara!

I am a "Back To The Future" nut, who had run out of new details to relish about it. What do I see on "Family Ties" yesterday but a time travel episode, in which a Mike Fox character has to preserve the details of history! It is from 1985! I need to see if it preceded his invitation to film the greatest film release of all time from that year. Did they get the idea for casting him in the pivotal role, from that "Family Ties" episode?

This is fun TV history to ponder. The film premiered July 3, 1985. The "Philadelphia" episode aired January 17, 1985. It is possible it inspired Mike being cast! Eric Stoltz starting making the film in November but Robert Zemeckis wanted Mike instead. Mike had been his first choice but perhaps the serendipitous TV episode cemented it.