2020 - Fourth Quarterly Review

To assist my blog readers, I summarize my reading four times a year, providing a brief description, the page count, and a grading scale (5 thumbs up - Highly Recommend, 4 thumbs up - Enjoyed, 3 thumbs up - Good, but not as satisfying as I'd hoped, 2 thumbs up - Meh, and 1 thumb down - Regret, wishing I could get back the time invested). I read the following books during the fourth quarter of 2020 (for my full review, click on title):

For the Love of Europe: My Favorite Places, People and Stories by Rick Steves - A famous travel writer's concise guide to his jaunts in Europe (only sad it neglected a mention of Barcelona). 416 pages, 👍👍👍-1/2

The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley by Hannah Tinti - The winding story of a criminal's life as he attempts to protect those he loves. 400 pages (I listened in audio form, 11 CDs, 13-1/2 hours), 👍👍👍

The Temptation of Adam by Dave Connis - After Adam Hawthorne's expulsion from school, he must face down his porn addiction and make peace with the sacred and human embers blazing within us all. 337 pages, 👍👍👍👍

We Interrupt This Broadcast: Relive the Events That Stopped Our Lives... from the Hindenburg to the Death of Princess Diana by Joe Garner - Real radio clips from interrupted broadcasts as news flashes erupted for tragic events. 154 pages (I listened in audio form, 2 CDs), 👍👍👍

A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway - Hemingway's memoir about life in Paris among many talented companions. 185 pages (I listened in audio form, 6 CDs, 4-1/2 hours), 👍👍👍-1/2

Craigslist Confessional: A Collection of Secrets from Anonymous Strangers by Helena dea Bala - A five-year project of listening to strangers unload secrets and burdens. 243 pages, 👍👍-1/2

The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan by Dr. David Perlmutter - As in Perlmutter's Grain Brain and Brain Maker books, this protocol urges avoidance of gluten and grains, as well as recommending many excellent lifestyle changes. 260 pages (I listened in audio form, 6 CDs, 7 hours), 👍👍👍

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman - A bank robber flees a cashless bank into an apartment viewing turning it into a hostage scenario full of anxious people. An unbelievable romp. 336 pages, 👍👍👍

Lady in Waiting: My Extraordinary Life in the Shadow of the Crown by Anne Glenconner - A member of British aristocracy recounts her life and her time serving as a lady in waiting for the queen's sister Margaret. 80% her life; 20% Princess Margaret. 336 pages (I listened in audio form, 8 CDs, 9 hours), 👍👍👍

Open and Unafraid: The Psalms as a Guide to Life by W. David O. Taylor - Dissection of the benefits of the psalms for approaching all aspects of life with vulnerability and confidence. 194 pages, 👍👍👍

Open Heart by Elie Wiesel - The famous Jew who survived Auschwitz relates his experience facing emergency open heart surgery and contemplating his life. 96 pages (I listened in audio form, 2 CDs, 1-1/2 hours), 👍👍👍

The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen - Responding to Rembrandt's painting, Nouwen considers the parable and identifies with each character. 151 pages, 👍👍👍

The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper by Hallie Rubenhold - Revealing crime and poverty in Victorian London through the tales of five unfortunates. 368 pages (I listened in audio form, 9 CDs, 10-1/2 hours), 👍👍👍

Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes - Light-hearted romance about second chances. 289 pages, 👍👍👍

They Do it With Mirrors: A Miss Marple Mystery by Agatha Christie - During a visit to a childhood friend, a man is murdered and Miss Marple must figure out exactly how the killer gained access to the victim. 224 pages (I listened in audio form, 5 CDs, 5-1/2 hours), 👍👍👍

Out of my Mind by Sharon M. Draper - Imprisoned by her cerebral palsy, eleven-year-old Melody longs to sing the words her brain contains, but even when she finds a machine to assist her, she must navigate the waters of being different. 320 pages, 👍👍👍👍

Dear Emmie Blue by Lia Louis - Emmie Blue hopes her pen-friend Lucas is going to express a romantic interest. After all, their lives came together serendipitously when he found the balloon she launched with the terrifying secret she carries. Will they move from friend territory to the next level? 310 pages, 👍👍👍

The End of Alzheimer's Program: The First Protocol to Enhance Cognition and Reverse Decline at any Age by Dale E. Bredesen, MD - An outline of the protocol Bredesen uses to aid individuals in staving off and reversing Alzheimer's. 321 pages, 👍👍👍-1/2

Adorning the Dark: Thoughts on Community, Calling, and the Mystery of Making by Andrew Peterson - An inspiring look at the process of creation and our role, as image-bearers of God, in presenting our gifts back to God for His glory. 224 pages, 👍👍👍👍-1/2

Daily Rituals: How Artists Work by Mason Currey - A compendium of work habits for famous writers, artists, composers, scientists, etc. 234 pages, 👍👍👍-1/2

The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer by Siddhartha Mukherjee - A thorough expose' of the problem and progress of treatment for the insidious disease of cancer. 608 pages (I listened in audio form, 16 CDs, 20-1/2 hours), 👍👍👍👍

The Practice: Shipping Creative Work by Seth Godin - Creative individuals must bravely practice their art without concern for return on the investment.  They must courageously ship their work into the hands of others for criticism and, hopefully, change. 272 pages, 👍👍👍-1/2

A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti - Annabelle, triggered by memories of a traumatic event, takes off on a cross-country run to process and heal from the intense tragedy. 355 pages, 👍👍👍👍

Where We Belong by Lynn Austin - A Christian novel of two unconventional sisters who cross continents to establish God's providence and provision in life. Brace for hammered messages. 480 pages (I listened in audio form, 13 CDs, 15.25 hours), 👍👍👍

Miss Benson's Beetle by Rachel Joyce - An unlikely friendship blossoms when a spinster hires an assistant to travel with her to New Caledonia in search of a rare golden beetle. 334 pages, 👍👍👍👍👍

At the Back of the North Wind by George MacDonald - A young boy in Victorian London ventures to the back of The North Wind. 168 pages (I listened in audio form, 2 CDs, 2 hours), 👍👍👍

Book Review: At the Back of the North Wind

During my college years, I worked in a museum housing the collections of 7 Christian British writers, including George MacDonald. I have read little by this author, but know that he influenced both C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien. Perhaps this title is one of his most famous, At the Back of the North Wind. All three museum-showcased writers held a rare talent for making the story preeminent while weaving in metaphysical truths.

This audio version was a radio theatre performance put on by Focus on the Family. I loved the fact that Juliet Stevenson narrated for The North Wind. She has such a lovely lilting voice. The story takes the reader back in time to Victorian London, where a sickly boy encounters The North Wind. While others believe he is daft in the head, he insists that he has ridden in a nest of The North Wind's hair and flown over London. You cannot help but come away with a sense of peace about the afterlife. It was a perfect read for the holidays. 

Book Review: Miss Benson's Beetle - Highly Recommend

 

Rachel Joyce has done it again! This novel was every bit as delightful as her best-selling novel, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. As Joyce carries her characters into uncharted territory, they always change and grow. She weaves adventures that illustrate firm beliefs about the kind of world where we'd all like to live. Miss Benson's Beetle is an enduring tale that explores a woman's purpose and passion and the rare gift of friendship along the way. It is my must-read suggestion for this trying year.

Doughty Margery Benson is a caricature to her young students. Horrified by their cartoon drawing of her, Margery flees the school and sets out on a journey of a lifetime. She is, at last, doing what she's always wanted to do, tracking a golden beetle in New Caledonia. Her deceased father inspired her love of entomology and also left her with a significant hole in her heart. But she cannot embark on this quest alone, so she reluctantly hires a bumbling assistant, Enid Pretty, who talks too much and dresses too provocatively. While Margery is pressing toward something, Enid is running from something.

Getting to know Margery Benson and Enid Pretty is quite an experience! What a remarkable ride the reader gets as these two unusual women foster an unlikely friendship and face an uncertain future! I can't help but use frequent exclamation points. These memorable characters feel real, and their exploits will stay with me for a good while. This would make a fantastic book club selection. It will spark great discussions and reactions. 

As if my satisfaction of the novel wasn't enough, a section at the end of the book offers a hypothetical conversation between the author and her characters. Then, the author shares the photograph that inspired the tale. I'm always curious about the birthing process of a novel. I relished Joyce's comments about what life is teaching her and what lessons arise from her interaction with these two women who appeared first in her imagination and then in a museum photograph. Keep it up, Rachel Joyce! Your writing is more than "very good" - it's pure gold! I hope you will continue to pursue it with your protagonist's persistence.

Book Review: Where We Belong

 Although I enjoyed this wholesome audio experience, it demonstrated the position on agenda that Andrew Peterson shared in his Adorning the Dark book. As a Christian, I agree with the message this novel presents. Sadly, the author hammers instead of suggests. For example, two phrases occurred ad nauseam (and, yes, I grew nauseated with each additional mention): "God knows the end of our days; no need to fear" and "No trees grow to the sky." I heard the first truism almost twenty times. She even explained the second, in case the reader couldn't grasp the meaning. I don't enjoy criticizing (indeed genuinely like this author's books), but wish the message to creep in unawares through the strength of the story. I'm sure Lynn Austin meant to shore up Christians facing uncertainty. No doubt many of us need such shoring up these days. Her intentions are honorable, but her methods too forceful (a non-believer would toss the story given such overt proselytizing).

Where We Belong emphasizes God's constant care and provision through the unconventional lives of two wealthy sisters who adore travel and wish to fulfill their God-given purpose in life. Flora and Rebecca Hawes travel to the Middle East in search of documents to verify the validity of Scripture. Faced with Darwin's alternative theory of evolution, the sisters fight to reinforce the Bible's authority. Meanwhile, they also shepherd their two young servants. The story jumps back and forth in time to portray how each character encountered and came to revere God. One sister falls in love with an adamant non-believer and his conversion feels too quick and without substance. Again, the story held plenty of action, believable characters, and engaging plot development. Just preachy. I'm not giving up on this author, but bristled at the hammered agenda.

Book Review: A Heart in a Body in the World

I first encountered Deb Caletti while researching comparable titles for a YA novel I wrote. My novel highlighted a girl who battles panic attacks and social anxiety, so I picked up Caletti's book, The Nature of Jade. She captured the essence of a growing problem for young women and wove it with truths about life. Next, I found a copy of Honey, Baby, Sweetheart. I read it while on my European excursion. As soon as I learned of A Heart in a Body in the World, I added it to my ever-growing list. I've never been able to run, but loved Wendelin Van Draanen's book about a runner, The Running Dream. Far easier to read about runners than to join them on the road. 

This book, A Heart in a Body in the World, ended up being a YA version of Harold Fry's journey (a favorite of mine, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, by Rachel Joyce). Both Harold and Annabelle set out with no intention and end up with a quest and a following. Both are running to something and from something. The benefit of Annabelle's trek is that it occurs on my own soil and crosses my own paths. It was thrilling to read the section of her run through Illinois, since I hold fond memories of many of the mentioned places. Apart from identifying with locations, I also identified with the emotions in this book. Trauma ripples into every aspect of life and often steals our ability to respond rationally to similar scenarios, robbing a person twice, first with the initial offence and then of opportunities for normalcy. Annabelle knows that not all boys are evil, but her experience with one casts a long shadow on all further experiences.

Interspersed in the magnificent storytelling (forgot there was an author - the mark of a truly talented author), Annabelle shares facts about hearts. Each list of tangible facts ends with a truth about hearts illustrated in the story. Amazingly, broken hearts mend. As Annabelle runs, she regains her footing and becomes a symbol for the healing a nation needs after tragedy. This is a powerful and timely tale, full of grace and truth.

Book Review: The Practice

My good friend, Mary Pudaite Keating, spoke highly of Seth Godin. Of course, The Practice: Shipping Creative Work promised yet another book to encourage my deflating writing spirits. I am much better at the practice of writing than that of shipping writing into the world. Still, this book offered encouragement and thought-provoking content. 

The book has an unusual structure. Instead of chapters, it contains over 200 small sets of sentences, paragraphs, and blurbs of ideas. For example, he explains about Askida Ekmek, a practice in Turkey where a bakery patron can pay for an extra loaf to hang on a hook on the wall for a needy person who might enter the shop. I loved this interesting concept to present the idea that creativity nurtures self and should also nurture others. 

Godin asks the provocative question: “If we failed, would it be worth the journey?” I guess I need to commit to the practice more fully and stop looking for the results, the reassurance that it is to some purpose. Focus on the journey. That is an arduous task. I probably fit more in his category: “Some people… need a recipe and want reassurance that the work they do will pay off. The practice requires you to seek out this experience of uncertainty.” Later, he says, “It’s selfish to hold back when there’s a chance you have something to offer.” I needed his gentle reminder, “Your work is never going to be good enough (for everyone). But it’s already good enough (for someone).” Godin ships his own creative work right into the minds and hearts of struggling artists filled with self-doubt. He has something to offer. We have something to offer.

Missing Avenues for My Alto

The holidays bring so many memories associated with my alto horn. When I was in high school, my dad and I (on our cornet and alto) would venture out bright and early into the tube station tunnels in Chicago. We would set up the kettle and play duets for the crushing crowd of commuters until I had to leave for school. Several years back, a friend of mine passed along this photo of my dad playing at a kettle (I'm fairly certain that is the edge of my horn next to him) - she found it on eBay while searching for old Salvation Army images, so it has a watermark from some historical images company. Still, it brings back those morning jam sessions like it was yesterday.

I also remember playing through the Salvation Army carol book with my brothers so frequently that we had all the numbers memorized. In my senior year, when my parents were moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, I had to wrap my alto in a coat of foam to keep it from freezing as I stood out at the Army kettles. One night, a film crew from the local news station came by and I heard about it the next day from other students who watched (from the warm comfort of their homes - ha).

Since my husband has a masters in trumpet performance from Indiana University, he got in on the game after we married. My friends, Kris and MaryAnn Wood, were the officers at the DeKalb Salvation Army corps for a while. They invited John and I to join forces for their kettle effort. I remember one year, Kris promised to play his trombone from the roof of the corps if they made their goal for that year. I don't believe we joined him on the roof, but he kept his promise.

When we moved to the Indianapolis area, I anticipated the thrill of playing with an Army band again. I assumed there would be a corps band as vibrant as when my teen and college friends were in Indianapolis. Alas, no band. Still, I would play when they invited and after I purchased an alto on Craigslist, I often played for Christmas kettles at the Divisional Headquarters near the Children's Museum. They have since moved buildings and I don't receive invitations any longer.

Last night, while cruising through Facebook, I came across this video from High Bridge Brass. Alto soloist Nathan Miller performs a melodious version of Mary Did You Know?

In my teen years, back when my brothers called me "metallic lips" for practicing so many hours a day, I might have attempted a solo like this. Now, ha - fat chance! Still, it warms my heart to hear an outstanding musician make an alto horn sing! 

Book Review: The Emperor of All Maladies

The Emperor of All Maladies won the 2011 Pulitzer Prize. Its author, Siddhartha Mukherjee, is a Rhodes scholar and a graduate of Stanford University, University of Oxford, and Harvard Medical School. By the end of this monumental work, I was waxing a bit blurry-eyed (or should I say eared, since I listened) at all the acronyms, medication names, etc. They blended together and my interest flagged. But overall, it was a worthwhile experience (even on audio). I appreciated Mukherjee’s book on The Gene, so I knew what I was getting into. 

This thorough look into cancer over the ages offers the complete story of every challenge and every advance. Many individual battles personalize the story and serve as examples. Although I have members of my family who have battled cancer (my father had kidney cancer, my brother testicular cancer, and my niece had leukemia), I listened to this book from a privileged perspective. I have not had to endure the terror and the trauma of such a diagnosis. I agree with Adam Hochschild who writes, “Mukherjee joins the first rank of those rare doctor-authors who can wield a pen as gracefully as a scalpel.”

Book Review: Daily Rituals

After Adorning the Dark reminded me that everyone is creative, I investigated how some of the most famous creative individuals get their work done. Daily Rituals: How Artists Work by Mason Currey grew out of a blog. Currey, fascinated by people’s rituals, started a blog about them. One day an agent emailed suggesting he could make a book from the blog and, viola, now we can hold his findings in our hands. 

This book was fascinating. Of course, it didn't surprise me that some creatives turn to smoking, drinking, and drugs to prompt their creative juices (everything from cigars and coffee to alcohol and amphetamines). But some statistics were staggering. The book said Balzac sometimes consumed 50 cups of coffee a day. How is that even possible? And Sarte, well, let’s just say that man had a major problem with drugs and alcohol. 

I knew Dickens often turned to walking for his inspiration. He wasn’t alone in this reliance on long walks to clear the head and set ideas aglow. Tchaikovsky took a two-hour walk every day. Darwin, Kierkegaard, Freud, and Hobbes were also walkers. When I used to work on fiction, I needed a half-hour preliminary walk to process the characters and plot.

However, it thoroughly surprised me how many artists claimed to be procrastinators. Or that some discarded what they considered wasted effort. The output of many of these individuals stunned me, as well. H. L. Mencken worked 12 to 14 hours daily and replied to every letter he received within the same day. Not only that, he claimed his only regret was that he “didn’t work even harder.” Sheesh! Both George Sand and Saul Bellow wrote 20 or more pages a day. Faulkner claimed to have written ten thousand words in one day. (As a former Nanowrimo participant, 10 thousand sounds like a staggering number – I think my highest in one day was something between 5 and 6 thousand.) An emphasis on writing every day seemed to spring from page after page. Discipline makes many an artist. 

I laughed as Richard Strauss compared his writing to milking a cow. Then, in the small biographical sketch for Milton, the image appeared again. This time it seemed especially compelling. Because of Milton’s blindness, he would work for a few hours memorizing lines in his head and then when his secretary returned he would say it was time for him to be milked. For a time after Trevor’s birth, I had to use a machine to express the liquid gold of breast milk. I imagine famous writers produce liquid gold just as valuable. 

My daily writing ritual never nets gold, yet I cling to the practice. Every morning, as soon as I have completed my devotions, BSF lesson, and prayers, I pull out the lined paper and write between 1 and 2 pages a day. I sit at a desk (never lying down as some of these writers work). When working on fiction, I follow the advice Hemingway offered of breaking off in mid-thought with a rough idea of where I’m headed, to pick it up again the next day. However, I haven’t plowed effort into fiction for quite a while. Maybe I have given it up entirely. I may not produce at the rate or quality of the individuals highlighted in Currey’s book, but my ritual helps to clear my mind and process everything raging inside. So, for me, I suppose it is gold.

Book Review: Adorning the Dark

I’m becoming a big fan of Andrew Peterson. It started with my introduction to that stirring song I wrote about back in March. I cannot guess how many times I’ve viewed the You Tube video of his performance at the Sing conference. Enough so I no longer weep every time I hear the song (my initial response). 

In June, while writing my book review for Leif Enger’s Virgil Wander, I chanced upon the Rabbit Room blog (a marvelous discovery and a community I would love to join at some point). I had no idea it was another creative venture that sprang from the heart and soul of Andrew Peterson. While working on a fresh writing project, I encountered a blurb from Adorning the Dark. A nearby mega-church (with an outstanding Christian library) requested information about new resources patrons might like to access. I gave some ideas and threw in the title of this book. They blessed my socks off! One day, I received a call saying my requested book was in and ready for curbside pickup. Not only did they order the book for my benefit, but they delivered it in a gorgeous bag proclaiming “I—heart—books!” 

Of course, now I’ve discovered I want to purchase the book for my own library. It was that good! Andrew Peterson provides a quasi-memoir, quasi-creativity spark plug. His first premise: creativity is part of our God-given, image-bearing identity. We are all creative. His second premise: our creativity flourishes when plugged into community. His third premise: as Christians, God calls us to “adorn the dark with the light of Christ.” What a high calling! What an encouraging book! 

In the introduction, Peterson claims, “What’s shaped me and my work more than any particular talent on my part has been living out a calling in the midst of a Christ-centered community.” The book made me hunger for a Christian writing community as I used to have when we lived in DeKalb, Illinois. Although I tried a local library writer’s group, I worry my focus is too religious for their liking. Enter the current dilemma: How does one find such a community and align with it amid a pandemic? I don’t have what it takes to continue plugging away without affirmation that I’m on the right road or without cheerleaders alongside to rally my spirits when the opponent feels fierce. ("The ability to overcome resistance, self-sabotage, and self-doubt is way more important than talent." - Steven Pressfield) 

Still, with such community absent, this book is an outstanding encouragement. I cling to two statements toward the beginning: “You have to believe that you’re precious to the King of Creation, and not just a waste of space…. We holy fools all bear God’s image.” And “All you really have is your willingness to fail, coupled with the mountain of evidence that the Maker has never left nor forsaken you.” He also articulated well my biggest beef with much Christian fiction, when agenda overshadows story. Peterson writes, “Agenda isn’t necessarily bad…. [It] is bad when it usurps the beauty…. Truth without beauty can be a weapon; beauty without truth can be spineless.” 

Again and again, I wanted to recommend Peterson’s book to my friend, Kyle White (from my DeKalb writer’s group), knowing he would appreciate the content and its poetic conveyance. It was clinched when I read the chapter on “Serving the Audience.” As the author compared a song to a spell, able to “inject beauty into some unsuspecting passerby and lead them to the truth,” I thought of Kyle’s profound poetry. Peterson talked of a songwriter friend, Andy Gullahorn, who can slip past the “watchful dragons” (a C. S. Lewis reference). That is exactly what Kyle has done in his poem about the circus museum. You begin with the panoramic delight and, before you know it, Kyle zooms in on the truth of how a circus museum is kind of like the church today, and why we’re wrong to make it a museum. 

Next, Peterson wrote: “The song is a tightrope, and the listener is inching along, enraptured by the hope and light raveling in the middle distance…. When that happens, the world falls away and you’re both a channel for and a recipient of grace.” What a magical description of Christian writing. If only I could be a channel for and recipient of grace in my writing. 

After closing the book, I struggled with two conflicting emotions. His reminder that God gifts each of us and intends us to cultivate and grow our gifts for use in His magnificent kingdom encouraged me. But self-doubt (the very thing Peterson warns the reader to bite back) reared his ugly head all the more. I slunk into depression because my words are merely adequate and amateur. Plus, there is a  monumental chasm between completing a project and finding a publisher. I do not have the large platform publishers require, proof the work is profitable. I’m sure my words are not as well-articulated as they could be. However, I'm convinced God gave me those words to soothe another soul. Thus, I’m right back to where I always seem to find myself. I must lay the work at His feet and pray He will use it as He wills. If He intends to reach others through my meager talents, it will be His act of turning on the spout and allowing the water to gush into the hands that need it most.

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If you're interested in exploring my friend Kyle's work, visit his art/book website. In addition to purchasing his newest book of poetry and essays, Freezing, Thawing: New & Revised Stories from the Midwest, you might want to purchase an art print (my favorite is one with a quote from Henry Van Dyke: "Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent... if no birds sang there except those that sang best.") He is currently offering a sale of 15% off any art print, through December 6th, if you use the code 15off. His previous books are also available on Amazon. Great Christmas gift ideas!

Book Review: The End of Alzheimer's Program

I’m experiencing a renewed interest in battling the potential enemy of dementia. Hard to fight an enemy if you’re not sure it truly exists yet, but I can certainly take steps to fortify and protect my personal home, my body. Dr. Dale Bredesen’s End of Alzheimer’s book was on mylist of top reads last year. Reading the book mobilized me to begin the protocol. I followed a make-shift regimen, based on what I had read, from March or April of last year until Christmas. In January, I attempted to go back on the plan. Alas, my father broke his arm, and I went to Florida to provide care. It seemed too difficult to maintain while in someone else’s house. Then, with the initial lockdown, I lost sight of the goal. I gained back the lost pounds and resumed some memory issues.

Bredesen’s plan works. I will say that at the outset. When I follow the plan, I notice a marked change in my well-being. While it requires devotion, he never says you have to follow his protocol 100 percent. You can make your own attempt and do what works for you. So just what is this plan? He calls it a KetoFLEX 12/3 diet. But it is so much more than a diet. It is a lifestyle shift. The plan involves 12 hour fasting (16 hours recommended for those with the Alzheimer’s gene) and recommends finishing your evening meal at least 3 hours before bedtime. Although it is ketogenic, it provides room for flexibility. Bredesen encourages readers to identify what triggers and risk factors they face so they know what to emphasize. The disease stems from a myriad of factors (diet, toxins, dental habits, inflammation, infection, etc.). Thus, the battle plans vary.

Here are some of his suggestions I’d like to attack while going back on the lower carb/plant-based diet. I’ve already resumed the fasting periods. I am attempting to break my fast in the morning with a cup of black coffee containing a small spoonful of coconut oil. This is a real challenge. I hate black coffee (crave my Coffee Mate hazelnut creamer – groan) and hate coconut. Thankfully, the oil is tasteless, just leaves an oily shimmer on the coffee. I now take milk thistle. I’m trying to focus on things I like: spinach, broccoli, pistachios, eggs, strawberries and blueberries, beets (yep, I like ‘em), avocados, and Brussel sprouts.

Although I would love to take the cognitive tests, I am still loathe to enter a doctor’s office. Besides, I'm unsure how I would respond if I learned I carry the Alzheimer’s gene. It would be great to purchase a pulse oximeter and rule out sleep apnea (I’m certain my oxygen levels are declining during sleep). If I knew how to go about it, or even if it would be valuable, I would look into having our home tested for toxins. I believe that the mold in my parent’s home led to some of my mother’s dementia. Purchasing a HEPA filter is another goal.

Don’t feel overwhelmed. You can attack as much or as little as you like and track your improvements over the weeks and months. This book is easy to digest (although the original End of Alzheimer’s book was easier). The only thing I would have liked to have seen in this book would have been a meal plan guide (but there was a small version in the original book and I purchased that, so I could review it). All in all, I’m a big believer in Dr. Bredesen and this plan. I think he is onto something. Anyone experiencing cognitive decline would do well to give it a whirl. There’s nothing to lose (well, weight) and much to gain.

Book Review: Dear Emmie Blue

I loved this novel's premise. Girl sends off balloon bearing secret into the world. Boy finds balloon and responds. Deep and abiding friendship develops. Girl hopes for something more. Her hopes begin to slip away like the balloon, with no destination.

I loved the setting - popping back and forth between England and France. I loved the conflict - will they/won't they end up together? The main character was delightful. What a conflicted, yet optimistic young woman. So glad she could send her baggage packing. I loved her best friend, right until he acts like less than a friend. An incident at the end left me shaking my head, disbelieving this character would do such a thing (probably included to keep tension levels high). Plus, why must all new books include sexual comment/content that I find undesirable? Do these authors write clean books and someone dictates that they must add filthy language, sexual discussion, etc., to achieve publication? Oh, how I despair! Lovely little romance book, apart from that. 

Gratitude in a Pandemic Year

What a year this has been! Unlike any other year I've experienced. Last November we discovered our son's prodigal path. Then, at the start of 2020, my dad broke his arm, necessitating my stay with them in Florida, where I watched my mother almost shrivel away into death. In March, the pandemic arrived with lockdowns, inconveniences, and uncertainty. Month by month, as I've kept my own chart of the pandemic statistics for Indiana, I've watched the numbers climb. 

August brought schooling decisions. Sean wanted to play football (amid my worry that such an activity would be unsafe), so we selected in-person schooling for him. For Trevor, wanting to continue his morning hours at his ranch internship, we selected at-home learning. That has been extremely challenging. I think his teachers were unprepared for providing both in-person and remote learning options. So many glitches. For his engineering class, the students in the classroom have access to software and programs for completing their assignments, while Trevor is told to draw sketches of the work (a far more time-intensive method and so he just neglects it). He also tanked on his Algebra class. Without in-person instruction, he felt unprepared to tackle the many assignments. Plus, once you are behind in a math course, catching up is hard because concepts build on one another. It has been difficult to determine if his failure is due to insufficient preparation for requirements or lack of motivation. He has always been in the honors courses and is thankfully far ahead because his middle school courses counted for high school credit. Still, quite difficult to see a gifted student fail classes.

Isolating and avoiding exposure is less challenging for us, since my husband works from home and I only leave to get groceries (and books from the library - 😉 - but use curbside pickup for that). Nonetheless, in October, John grew sick. He had barely been anywhere and always wears a mask. However, he had been working in the attic where we thought mouse droppings may have exposed him to hantavirus (a very serious lung infection that leads to death in over half the cases). He had chills, fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing without coughing. Of course, the minute he suggested this as a possibility, I began envisioning my life, especially parenting my prodigal, without the support of my husband. To say terror overtook me is putting it lightly.

We also wondered if bird droppings might be responsible. We still have our friends, the turkeys, hanging around, and John has been raking damp leaves full of bird droppings. Thus, we thought it might be histoplasmosis. When he at last went to see a doctor, they insisted on a COVID test and also performed a chest x-ray. The x-ray revealed bacterial pneumonia. They gave him antibiotics, and the symptoms vanished.

Then, his test results returned - positive. We were in disbelief, mostly because his symptoms cleared with antibiotics (antibiotics do not kill viruses). Also, he had hardly isolated himself from us (made many of our meals), yet none of the rest of us had any symptoms or difficulty. Still, Trevor's job required a test before he could return to work, and the CDC required us to quarantine for two weeks beyond when John's symptoms cleared. Sean became a remote learner, much to his dismay (and he also had difficulty - for example, for one test on "The Ride of Paul Revere," the teacher included questions with specific verse references, yet he could not leave the test page to seek those verses - the students probably had the poem printed out at their desks - he brought up the poem on his phone, but still had to count down the verses to get to the appropriate designated sections). Trevor's test returned negative, as expected, and they allowed him to return to work.

Bryce had planned a two-week Thanksgiving visit (working from home for the first week). Even though our quarantine would have ended the day of his arrival, he changed his plans to stay at his best friend's house for the first week in case we came down with the virus. The day of his flight, he learned his best friend had tested positive for COVID. So, he ended up at our house after all. Praise God! He learned the results prior to his flight and not after he had already gone to stay with the friend.

He also planned to attend a small birthday party/getaway in KY with several other friends the weekend before Thanksgiving. This filled us with dread, because his 92-year-old grandmother intended to come here for Thanksgiving. Not wanting to chance exposure, or infect his grandmother, he canceled those plans (praise God). Almost as soon as he cancelled, we learned that his grandmother's retirement center would not allow her to travel here (relieving some of my stress over preparing a big Thanksgiving dinner - although I roasted a turkey for the first time and, despite my lack of kitchen skills, succeeded).

Thus, I am settled into a deep state of gratitude this weekend. My prodigal son has improved some. My father and mother moved into an assisted living facility just prior to this whole pandemic explosion, and I have more peace of mind, knowing they receive thorough care. God has protected us from the pandemic virus and a worse virus (hantavirus). We drove over to Illinois on Friday and had an outdoor visit with Grandma in a heated tent (she has been desperate to see us all; she's a social individual, so the restrictions are excruciating for her).

Bryce and Sean have spent time together playing Rock Band (always a blessing to see them share this experience). Here is a photo of one of their stellar performances - 98% each with a score passing 1 million:

Later, they roped in Trevor:

Finally, they even called on me to participate. I took vocals on easy, but managed to help them get a score over 2 million.

Though challenges abound, God's grace and mercy abound ever more.

Gratitude in a Pandemic Year by Wendy Gorton Hill

G – od has given many things that I do not deserve

R – ight relationship with Him and freedom through His Word

A – nd with that firm foundation, amid this crazy year,

T – rials simply reinforce that He alone is dear

I – need not fear tomorrow, with all its troubling woe

T – rusting His protection is the only way to go

U – nworthy, though I may be, His promises are true

D – espite uncertainty, He’ll surely see me through

E – ach detail ever subject to His command and view.

Book Review: Out of my Mind

I saw Sharon Draper's Out of my Mind highlighted in a child's letter about their favorite literature in the 2016 Letters About Literature book. I added it to my lengthy list. It reminded me of Cynthia Lord's book Rules, because it portrays a handicapped individual who can neither walk nor talk. Both books will appeal to tween readers and foster greater understanding and empathy for special needs children.

Despite eleven-year-old Melody's vast intelligence and photographic memory, most kids think she is mentally defective. They shy away from her wheelchair. They stare when she drools. If only she could communicate! Countless words and thoughts spring to life in her brain but cannot make it to her lips. Trapped in a body racked with cerebral palsy, Melody outlines the frustrations of limitations she cannot override. Like the goldfish in her fish bowl, Melody longs to escape her imprisoned world. She is ecstatic when a computer allows her to find her voice. Will her newfound ability to communicate solidify or squelch acceptance from others?

I enjoyed this tender tale. Draper has experience parenting a special needs child. Thus, she portrays a believable and gutsy protagonist. The conflicts that arise propel the story into unexpected territory. Any reader will identify with Melody's feelings and frustrations. Moreover, nurturing acceptance for those who are different is always a timely task.

Book Review: They Do It With Mirrors

Finally, a clean audio book! I waded two discs into another one - groan - before giving up and returning to the library to find this decent Agatha Christie novel. In this mystery, Miss Marple is invited to a childhood friend's estate. She must piece together the clues to solve the mystery of the murder of another visitor. Was it the unhinged schizophrenic patient? Who is trying to poison Miss Marple's friend? Where were the various individuals when the lights went out? My only complaint for this audio book was that the reader was very difficult to understand (an older woman whose voice and inflections hindered the clarity of the experience so I couldn't listen while walking on the treadmill and had to reserve listening sessions for my trips back and forth with the boys to school and work). Still, so grateful for a clean read!

Book Review: Evvie Drake Starts Over

If you are looking for a light-hearted romance, Evvie Drake Starts Over is a good place to start. The author, Linda Holmes, is the host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast. Although not a big NPR listener, I look to them for book recommendations sometimes. This feel-good, sweet novel was an easy read and explored themes of guilt, love, and second chances.

Evvie Drake was all prepared to start over. With luggage packed in her car, she never expected the call that announced her husband's death in a car crash. So, why can't she start over now that the universe has given her a pass to go card? She feels wracked with guilt for a step she never even took. Meanwhile, Dean Tenney is forced to start over when his pitching arm suddenly malfunctions. What neurosis keeps him from taking the steps his body should know by heart? When Dean moves into Evvie's rental apartment, both explore what is holding them back from their second chance at life. Do they have what it takes to wipe the slate clean and seek something new?

In the novel, Evvie talks about grieving her first call status. I had never thought in terms like that. How difficult it is to accept that a relationship has changed and you are no longer the first person your best friend would call when they receive significant news. I've been there. Indeed, I tried to imagine who I would call first. Certainly my husband would hear my news, but who would be my first call? I have no idea. That, in itself, is rather sad. Lots to think about in this book. Can a man be a woman's best friend without hinting at sparks of anything else? Why do we present a false front to the world, afraid to show our life truths? How important is it to forgive ourselves before we forgive others? Hmm. Like I said, lots to ponder. 

Book Review: The Five

Crime in Victorian England fascinates me. I have never really focused on the Jack the Ripper cases, however. During my 2017 European trip, I passed on an opportunity to take a guided walk along Jack the Ripper's London. Instead, I chose a museum walking tour. This book, The Five, details the lives of the five victims of this notorious criminal. While many assume that all the victims were prostitutes, that was not true.

Historian Hallie Rubenhold introduces Polly, Annie, Elizabeth, Catherine, and Mary-Jane. She intersperses their tales with historical details to bring the Victorian era and the plight of the poor to life. Instead of being selected for selling sex, Rubenhold argues the Ripper likely chose these women because they were sleeping rough. Mary-Jane was the only one murdered in her bed. The rest of the women were lying in some hidden alleyway, some too drunk to register danger. What a sad, gruesome story. Evil manifests in every age and poverty renders far too many vulnerable.

Politics, Pandemics, and Prodigals, Oh My!

Photo by Nicole Wreyford on Unsplash

It is November 2020. I am sick to death of my Facebook feed, exploding daily with fomentation of conflicting perspectives. Back and forth, each side insists that their man will lead them to the healing this land needs. "If only So and so is in power, we will see humankind improve." I don't buy it. 

Human effort can never eradicate the ramifications of spiritual illness. No matter who sits in the White House, America remains threatened by wholesale acceptance of sin and sin's infectious disease. This is the true pandemic. The insidious, invisible illness. Are you infected? Is anyone else infected by your actions, your movements? We are free to move about the country, passing along the virus indiscriminately. We are free to place our trust wherever political argument moves us the most. Why do we seek a political cure for a spiritual disease? Arguing a political perspective rarely changes human action.

If plagued by butting heads in our nation, I'm also tormented by butting heads in my home. I've been living in the parable of the prodigal son. Camped there for a season. Fully frustrated with my child's rebellious choices. Equally frustrated that the loving father in the parable does not force his child's compliance. God knows what man needs, yet allows him to choose the very action that creates the chasm. God, in His sovereignty, knows the consequences of our choices. Despite concern for our best interest, He will not dictate our way. There's an old Salvation Army chorus that declares, "His way is best you see... I'm in His hands." (Take a moment, it is worth the listen. Or view the full lyrics, with verses.) But, alas, we can ignore His commands, walk away from the Father, follow the road signs that declare "Happiness... ten miles down the road." Many say, "Get Your hands off me! This is my body! This is my life!"

It is like my child is on a train. The tracks have been blown to smithereens further down... is it over a flat surface or over a catastrophic abyss? Will the end bring minimal damage or maximum devastation? I can't guess the end, but I believe the One who knows and sees the impending danger. And so I post my signs, offer my arguments. Stop! These tracks are not reliable. Danger up ahead! Get off the train before it is too late.

But other signs stand posted, and he persists in following those. They read: "This is the answer to your problems. This will bring you the happiness and comfort you desire. Don't listen to the naysayers. They just want to spoil your fun. You have a perfect right to live as you choose. Stay on the train. Enjoy the view."

Relativists say, "You have your truth. I have mine. You believe what you want and I will believe what I want." I don't buy relativism either. Absolute truth exists. Both sides cannot be right at the same time. Yet, even when truth is crystal clear, man will rationalize and justify his departure.

For example, I've been listening to Siddhartha Mukherjee's excellent biography of cancer. The current chapters describe studies with incontrovertible evidence that smoking causes lung cancer. Yet the tobacco companies, eager for profit, spun advertising campaigns to minimize the evidence or call it into question. One man, disturbed by the one-sided advertising petitioned that truths from the other perspective deserved equal time so that an individual could parse through the evidence and make an educated decision about their actions. But here's the dilemma. Even when faced with evidence that smoking causes cancer, people continue to light up a cigarette. Their perceived benefits outweigh the arguments against use. As the book highlighted, some will walk away from chemotherapy and insist on having a smoke. You could post a sign saying "The bridge is out!" and they puff away, smile and say, "Just look at that view!"

Alas, I am a prime example of this. I'm knee-deep in a book about the protocol for Dr. Dale Bredesen's End of Alzheimer's program. As if to set the signs aglow in neon, I had a most troubling experience the other day. We sat at the table. I was disturbed because John had added pepper to the corn (flavoring he desires and I do not). As the others started eating, I said, "Aren't we going to pray?" They looked at me as if I had sprouted a second head. "Mom, we just prayed. You even bowed your head." It brought me to tears. I had no recollection of the moment they insisted had just occurred. Of course, wanting to reassure me, John said it happened because I was perseverating about the pepper on the corn. True, but I saw the sign.

For all the research into better diet and the books about lessening my chances of disease and difficulty, I continue to eat foods I know harm my health. I'd rather enjoy the taste of my cream cheese squares than begin again to rein in my out-of-control eating habits. Argue all you want. I'm going to disregard what I know to be true and eat what I know to be unhealthy.

As for my child, he may persist too. We can argue our perspective until the end of time, but he is free to choose what he will. When we present evidence, he pooh-poohs it and points to articles that support his position. He can find someone to defend his beliefs. He can say, "Get your rules off me! This is my life, my future, my decision." As Proverbs 21:2 says, "Every way of a man is right in his own eyes."

Given the inadequacy of argument, I should despair. If reason does not show the way and if reason, even when admitted, doesn't slow the way, what are we to do? But there I am clear. Arguments will not alter hearts. Superior debating will not affect change. God, in His wisdom, shows me the way. Philippians 4:6 - "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Luke 18:1 - "He told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart." Only by the grace of God will spiritual eyes open and physical lives mend.

This is the only viable solution for our country, as well. A president will neither make America great again nor make America nice again. It is only a man behind the curtain with no magical powers. As long as we refuse to turn from our wicked ways, we can expect the outcome in which we sit. We cannot contact trace this disease of sin. And God will not allow sin to reign forever. Even His patience has an end. But, His solution again? 2 Chronicles 7:14 - "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." Romans 12:12 - "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." I beg God to root out the pride and pigheadedness within me and remind me of His sovereignty. As Charles Spurgeon wrote, "When you go through a trial, the sovereignty of God is the pillow upon which you lay your head." I'm on my knees for my nation, for my family, for my son. Our solution? Repent of sin, accept His grace, and follow God's biblical road.

Book Review: The Return of the Prodigal Son

One blessing of walking a path with a prodigal child is the clear correlation in Scripture. Since I find my trial in the Bible, I am assured God is familiar with what I am facing. He is the original parent of a prodigal. This book, The Return of the Prodigal Son, grew out of Henri Nouwen's viewing and contemplation of Rembrandt's painting by the same name. The cover of my copy bears this famous painting.

Nouwen walks through the parable from the perspective of each participant: father, prodigal, and elder son. He points out how we can relate to each in some measure. Indeed, I have been wayward, seeking anything but the love and authority of the Father. Who hasn't wanted their own way instead of God's way? I have resented the favor God grants others. Finally, I'm called to love with His level of unconditional love, something most challenging.

In one of my favorite passages, Nouwen addresses the unexpected expression of God's love. We think the Father should not allow the son to go his own way. Surely, knowing the outcome, he would do better to force the child to accept his home and his love. Yet, God doesn't.

Nouwen writes: "How much would he have liked to pull them back with his fatherly authority and hold them close to himself so that they would not get hurt. But his love is too great to do any of that. It cannot force, constrain, push, or pull. It offers freedom to reject that love.... That freedom includes the possibility of their leaving home, going to a 'distant country,' and losing everything.... From the beginning of creation, [He] has stretched out his arms in merciful blessing, never forcing himself on anyone, but always waiting; never letting his arms drop down in despair, but always hoping that his children will return so that he can speak words of love to them and let his tired arms rest on their shoulders. His only desire is to bless."

Would that I could show that level of love. If only I did not give way to despair. Clinging to hope is not possible without the Father's intervention. My arms grow weary. They droop, and I experience anger at my child for not living according to my dictates and authority. I want to demand compliance. I want to control the outcome. As I experience the compassionate love of God, I move forward attempting to live that love to my son. I must ignore the rejection and focus on the return, waiting to bless.

Book Review: Open Heart

This brief audio book, Open Heart, by Elie Wiesel is a poetic venture into a health crisis. Wiesel, well-known as a survivor of Auschwitz, underwent emergency surgery in 2011. As I listened, I thought of a member of my book club whose husband had open heart surgery a month ago. Facing down this significant surgery (and the depression they say follows) is no small thing. Wiesel expresses, once again, his response to unfathomable trial. This open look at life-threatening circumstances reflects his past and his writing career. He wrestles with God's place in it all and reaffirms his trust, despite the threat. Articulating his Jewish background, he reveals his emotional and spiritual response to this emergency surgery situation.

Book Review: Open and Unafraid

In these days of confusion and chaos, I have taken to reading the psalms. They express similar angst to what I experience. They praise in equal measure. W. David O. Taylor's book, Open and Unafraid: The Psalms as a Guide to Life, explores the psalms thoroughly. Divided into 14 chapters, breaking down categories such as Honesty, Prayer, Poetry, Anger, Joy, Enemies, Justice, and Death, the book outlines how we need not filter and gentrify our expressions to God. We can express all facets of our feelings. He is worthy of our praise, and He hears our desperate cries. I appreciated the questions for reflection and suggested exercises at the end of each chapter. Even though I only took part in a few of these activities, I jotted down some questions to explore in my daily writing pages. Here are a few I hope to explore further:

• "What things are more difficult for you to be honest about?"
• "What are you afraid will happen if you are fully honest to God and others?"
• Listen to "40," by U-2 and watch "Bono & Eugene Peterson: The Psalms"
• Write your own psalm
• "In what specific way do you wish for God, or for others, to be present to you in your lament today?"
• Study a psalm of lament and write your own psalm of lament
• "Write down specific things that have caused you to become upset or angry.... Write down in as much detail as you can how these experiences have made you feel.... Welcome God into this process."
• "What things make it hard for you to practice joy?"
• "What are the things in your life that help you feel God's pleasure when you're doing them?"

While this was not a book I could absorb well when I attempted it in audio form, I fared much better with time and opportunity to reflect. I will strive to be open and honest with God and with others. Full vulnerability is difficult and intimidating, but valuable. At least with God, I believe complete openness allows the chance to unload what burdens without fear of rejection or judgment. Opportunities for that with people are few; with God, it is always possible. And when words escape me, I can always pray the psalms.

Book Review: Lady in Waiting

I am always searching for two things: decent, wholesome audio books to fill my treadmill time and entertaining, quality television series to watch in the evenings. I recently binged on the five seasons of PBS's Poldark. Before watching Downton Abbey twice, I watched The Crown. I loved their choice of Helena Bonham Carter to play Princess Margaret. She did an excellent job portraying the firebrand sister to the queen. Thus, I thought I would enjoy Anne Glenconner's memoir, Lady in Waiting: My Extraordinary Life in the Shadow of the Crown. Although it was interesting and very colorful, it veered away from decent, wholesome territory. I eagerly awaited bits about the royal family, but the book focused primarily on the author's life and only tangents on her time and work as Princess Margaret's Lady in Waiting.

Earls are often disappointed when they sire only girls. Thus, despite being the eldest, the author could not inherit the family estate. Living near the royal family's country estate of Sandringham, Anne grew up playing with the royal sisters, Elizabeth and Margaret. I enjoyed hearing the more down-to-earth bits. As a teen, she took her family pottery business to America to sell their wares. She talked of the strange events where one month she was travelling on Greyhound buses across the United States, and the next month she was preparing to serve as Maid of Honor for Queen Elizabeth's Coronation. Her colorful family life exuded flamboyance and flair. They bought a Caribbean island, hosted parties, and even bought an elephant at one point. She endured much sadness. Her volatile husband was unpredictable (left his estate to his manservant). Her sons were fraught with conflict (the eldest addicted to drugs, the second battled AIDS, and the third was nursed back to life after a motorcycle accident left him in a prolonged coma). Despite rubbing shoulders with many famous individuals, the author still struck me as unpretentious and genuine.

The most puzzling thing about my audio experience with the book: at the end, the announcer declares it has been a book of fiction and any resemblance to real persons is a coincidence. I could find nothing online to corroborate this assertion. Billed as a memoir, it seems to portray genuine relationships and events. Glenconner's life story will certainly entertain anyone who enjoys reading about royalty or aristocracy. 

Book Review: Anxious People

Fredrik Backman is an outstanding writer. His story of the crusty, old curmudgeon in A Man Called Ove stole my heart. Sadly, I didn't enjoy Anxious People as much, although at the beginning I adored the voice of the story. Listen to his first seven sentences - pure gold:

"A bank robbery. A hostage drama. A stairwell full of police officers on their way to storm an apartment. It was easy to get to this point, much easier than you might think. All it took was one single really bad idea.// This story is about a lot of things, but mostly about idiots. So it needs saying from the outset that it's always very easy to declare that other people are idiots, but only if you forget how idiotically difficult being human is."

To be fair, much of it is hilarious and insightful. Many sentences hit me square between the eyes (especially as he described the chasm between old people and young people when it comes to technology - ha). In the end, I would even say it is a touching tale. It is just that the whole convoluted thing took on epic proportions that stretched credulity and strained my interest in the story.

A bank robber is having a dreadful day. The cashless bank, carelessly selected, cannot grant even the small requested amount. When the teller alerts the police, the bank robber flees to a building across the street that only has a stairwell leading up to two apartments. Since one apartment door is open, the criminal flees into it and finds an apartment showing in progress. The story unfolds, petal by petal, revealing the anxieties of the bank robber and every individual in the hostage situation (including a nearly naked man wearing a giant rabbit head - ludicrous).

Thus, what began as funny and unexpected, ended as preposterous. It brought to mind the story about the 100-year-old man who climbs out of his nursing home window and into a gigantic adventure he never anticipated. So, while I didn't dislike the book, it didn't live up to my expectations after Ove. If you're going to delve into a Fredrik Backman tale, I would recommend that one over this one. Then again, perhaps you enjoy tales of absurdity with hidden gems of insight. The book was a funny frolic.

Book Review: The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan

Since I loved Dr. David Perlmutter's book, Brain Maker, I checked out a neighboring library's copy of the audiobook, The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan. A year ago, I was doing well. I followed the ketogenic diet paired with intermittent fasting as suggested in The End of Alzheimer's book. Dropping eighteen pounds is no small feat. Yet I persisted with the diet and schedule until I reached my goal weight. Sadly, as I approached the winter holidays, I eased up on my fierce adherence. By the time the lockdown occurred in March, I had given it up entirely and it didn't take long to replace the lost pounds (after all, I was baking bread with the masses).

I doubt I will follow Dr. Perlmutter's protocol from this book. Even still, listening to his advice was beneficial. It put me in the mood to take control once again and avoid carbs. I'm finding the scheduling aspect more difficult this time around. Many nights, I cannot eat early enough because Sean is out with after-school activities and our dinner gets pushed later. While I don't mind eating by myself and finishing by 4:30, it alienates my family when I'm eating separately. So, this is a wrinkle I still need to iron.

Instead of listening to the last chapter (the recipes), I returned the audio book and checked out the physical book. It felt like a wasted effort. None of the recipes looked appealing, and I already know what works for me with meals and snacks. I prefer simple and easy as opposed to elaborate and exotic meal plans. Still, I'm glad I checked out the book so I could copy down several of the listed meaningful quotations (he presents a list of thirty in the support strategies section).

My next goal, when all of this hullabaloo blows over and going to the doctor doesn't seem like a life-threatening option, will be to request a sleep study. I'm certain I have sleep apnea. My husband says my snoring is very loud. I wake often during the night to use the restroom. Dr. Perlmutter recommends many helpful things to focus on, and sleep and stress are as important as diet and exercise. Even if you don't plan to follow this book's diet protocol, the encouragements for a better lifestyle can only be beneficial.

Book Review: Craigslist Confessional

Secrets are hard things to carry. I assume most people have some secret they feel they would never deign to share with another individual. Secrets are beguiling. We read books full of secrets because they suck us in with intrigue and mystery. But, I don't know if I would ever divulge my secrets to a stranger, even if the opportunity arose.

I think more than anything this book, Craigslist Confessional, made me sad. Of course, it makes sense that it might because people seldom withhold information that is light-hearted or uplifting. Such stories can be shared in the open. The stories in this book present details of life that are shameful, tragic, depressing, or scandalous.

The author, Helena dea Bala, pursued an interesting idea. After her own unburdening to a stranger lightened her spirits, she reasoned others might welcome a listening ear. She placed an ad and people willingly came out of hiding to share deeply personal stories.

As a writer, I enjoy eavesdropping. It is a skill that leads to great character development and realistic dialogue. Curiosity pulls me in when I overhear a heated discussion. But the book still left a foul taste. While the concept was intriguing, I'm wishing I had averted my eyes. I would have been better served by inspirational testimonies. Clearly, I'm not cut out to be a priest or therapist. Confession may benefit the soul, but woe to the listening ear.

Recent Sightings

I relish the opportunity to drive my son to his ranch job at Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center four mornings a week. His father drives the morning I have Bible study. It gives us a chance to talk (or equally, silence as he listens to music or texts on his phone). Often, when the weather is decent, the sights are lovely. For now, the leaves render the trees a kaleidoscope and the sun gives my morning a feel of promise.

One day on our drive, we came upon this lovely skeleton pounding out a tune on a makeshift piano:

Usually, I bring my laptop and get in an hour's work while set up at a small table on the office building's porch. The view is stunning, looking out on the horse pastures.

After that, I often retreat to the car to read for an hour. One day, I glanced up to see deer casually grazing nearby.

For now, this job is a tremendous blessing both to Trevor and to myself. A peaceful positive in a worrisome world.

P.S. If you haven't yet voted for Morning Dove in the Harrah's Hoosier Park Breeder's Crown Charity Challenge, please do so today.