Book Review!

Every now and then I read a book worth posting about...I suppose the one I'm going to mention here is worth posting although at first I was not completely certain of it's literary value.

First of all, let me preface my review with a few things. As I've stated before, I am and always have been enamored with anything I can get my hands on regarding WWII. Ever since being a child and reading The Diary of Anne Franke, I've been hooked.

Secondly, I don't get the opportunity to read very often, which in itself is sad. However, I have a tendency to become so involved in a story that I absolutely cannot put the book down; I can't sleep until I've finished the book and after I've finished I mull over it for days. Of course, this is much more accentuated when the book is about my favorite subject.

So with that in mind, here is a brief overview of my latest read.

"The Diplomat's Wife" by Pam Jenoff~looked appealing to me by it's cover; after reading the description I was intrigued although I knew nothing of this author, nor knew if this novel type piece of literature would be my style whatsoever. I began reading the book and was drawn into it immediately as the main character is a young woman named Marta who is a prisoner in a Nazi prison. (Dachau which I have been myself) for shooting a kommandant and for being a part of a resistant group during the war. I am always drawn into such writings involving the sacrifices those have made to fight for something they believe so strongly for.

When the Allies arrived to liberate the countries held by Nazism, Marta was rescued by an American soldier. She was transported to an American Red Cross camp in Austria to be treated for her wounds and grave health due to her prison circumstances. After arriving at the camp and regaining her health, a sort of farfetched occurrence takes place and she meets the soldier who had rescued her again. At this point in the book I became annoyed as I felt this was rather too coincidental; she had imagined him to be extra gentle and special, and she worked up a crush on him prematurely in my humble opinion. So they meet, and again, too coincidentally in my opinion, strike up a friendship that from the get go is much more than a friendship-it's quite obviously sexual from the start and this is the part I did not like. The soldier is kind and loving yes, but also seems very self centered. I did not "like" him much in the beginning. But Marta falls completely in love with him but of course can't imagine how it could really ever be so that he would truly care for her.

After they spend one evening together, he and his unit have to leave to go to Paris. At this point, Marta is quite sure she will never see him again.

After he leaves, Marta's nurse discloses the fact that she has made it possible for Marta to travel to England by using the visa of another patient who has just passed away. She instructs Marta to be the bearer of the news of this patients death to her family in England. However, the visa would expire the next day, therefore, time was of complete essence. She makes it as far as Paris, and due to train backup problems cannot go any further because of the expired visa. So she is stuck there in Paris and is frantically trying to figure out what to do when lo and behold she spies who but her dream man the American soldier! Again, just too coincidental! He recognizes her as well and without going into details they actually become engaged! Then he fixes up all her tickets and visa so she can continue to London as planned and promises to meet her there in two weeks to be married. Incidentally, they also spend a night together in his hotel.

So she arrives to London, takes care of her business with the family of the deceased patient, and eagerly awaits the arrival of her new fiancé. Sadly, he never arrives. She discovers his plane has crashed and he is dead. This is devastating news of course, and she is left hopeless and in despair. She grieves for many weeks and when she finally realizes she must go on with her life, she is offered a position with the British Embassy because she speaks Polish and is told she will be a tremendous asset to their work.

She marries the man who had hired her-basically out of sheer desperation. Because, not only does she need a job and a future, but she also discovers she is pregnant from her one night stand with the American soldier.

Now the rest of the story is not told on the back cover so I will be very careful so as not to spoil the plot; yet I do want to give the book a fair review. The book skips up two years and reveals that she has had a little daughter, and is living life as best she can while working at the Embassy, caring for her daughter, and maintaining an assemblance of a normal marriage and family yet secretly grieves her lost love, and the life of which she had dreamed of with him in America.

Eventually, a situation arises, that prompts her to offer her services to fulfill duties of political nature due to her having had experience working with the resistance and some acquaintances she had. Her husband, is highly opposed to her doing this, however, she defies his wishes and travels to Prague for this political endeavor. The political scene in The Czech Republic was horrific and she is appalled and faced with extreme circumstances and difficulty to complete her task. The story gets extremely intense at this point and this is where I absolutely could not put the book down! I was riveted!

She gets betrayed, her guide from the embassy gets killed and she is all alone in a war crazed country with no ability to acquire assistance. The author does a fine job here keeping the reader glued to the pages that's for sure. Then something even more spectacular happens but I'm not going to spoil the book for you!

After a few days, she actually finishes the work she set out to do and returns home. She had been through so much that once home, she had to spend some time recuperating and missed several weeks of work. Becoming a little listless and bored she ends up doing some detective work on her own based upon some suspicions she had regarding her trip and she discovers a traitor very close to her. At the time of her discovery, her world is about to be shattered. Again, the author keeps the suspense very high and the reader is found guilty of reading until the wee hours of the night with the light of an iPhone!

I will refrain from telling the ending...but I wanted to say that even though I was a little turned off by the beginning and overly coincidental turns of events, I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense and plot of this book. I never cease to be amazed at how horrible this time was for so many people. I am always sickened beyond the very pit of my stomach at the flippancy and waste of the sanctity of human life. The book painted many pictures and scenes of how the war affected many people, Jews, Germans, peasant and diplomats alike. So many affected, in so many ways. And though I'm sure it's been said time and time again, I will always wonder about and feel guilt and shame for the purposeful ignorance shown by so many while this travesty took place. My heart is always moved with compassion and admiration for those who struggled and died senselessly. I will forever hold their memory in my heart and mind.

In conclusion, besides being intriguing and suspenseful, this book if anything, once again opened my eyes to the naked horror of war, and caused me to look around me, at what I have, and to be ever so grateful for our freedom. I cannot fathom the hell endured by so many; and I am grateful for this reminder.

-- Post From My iPhone

The broken record player?

E.X.H.A.U.S.T.E.D.

Can I expound any further? I think not. Today, I got up at 5:15 to head up to Donkey Rock to pick Elyse up for camp. (shout if you remember Donkey Rock!!!)

Eeeewwwww that was quite the drive. It's been a few years since I've made the trek and NEVER in the 30+ (yes 30+) years that I have traveled up there have I made a round trip in one day. Yuck! Needless to say, we made it home and went directly to Panda Express before noon! (per princess' request)

I had stayed up late-still so much work to do regarding this big move. BUT I took a few hours to do a few little special things to welcome Elyse back home. I bought her some new fancy sheets, a few little cute things for her new room, and we made her a little goodie basket. Just wanted her to know she is loved and was missed!










So, after a nice hot shower, she is crawled up in her comfy bed eating Takis-her favorite snack! (no I do not allow eating in bedrooms but today I recant)

(Jamie-Takis are this Mexican corn chip snack, they are rolled into these little tubes then covered in a sour/spicy seasoning. They are VERY strong tasting and I hate them but she loves them!)

Then I took a short cat nap then decided I'd better get my groove on and get back to work-answered a few emails, returned a few phone calls, am writing this quick little update and am headed to hunt down some grub for the kiddies and then get some work done.

The last 2 pups leave tomorrow at 8:30am so I'm preparing them for their trip to Phoenix.

Also contemplating a no bark collar for my poor pooch Piper.



She isn't so thrilled with our move-she barks anytime a bird flies overhead which is totally out of character for her. I'm not sure how much time to give her to adjust, but the neighbor is already complaining so I must remedy the problem efficiently as I can. Suggestions? She is inside a lot so it's not always a problem but I know when we are gone she has a hay day.

Lastly, as I mentioned earlier, I've taken up running and need a bodyguard/running partner....her name is Sierra Sunshine.




She is a Louisiana Catahoula.

-- Post From My iPhone

No Pain No Gain?!?!

Aaaaggghh I hate that phrase! But it is definitely true to say the least.

And boy am I feeling it today! The combo of a new workout program in addition to extreme hands and knees type scrubbing and cleaning of the house we are migrating to has got me creaking and groaning with every step. Definitely feeling my ripe old age that's for sure.

You cant even imagine the filth that the prior tenants left. UN-BE-LIEVE-ABLE. An entire garden could have been sprouted on a single ceiling fan blade I do believe. I don't think the shutters had ever seen a dust cloth in their entire existence, and, the buffet awaiting me under the stove was simply atrocious. Wow! I thought I had a little too much dirt here and there but now I feel like my home is immaculate LOL. (well almost) Anyway, the big trade off for being able to stay in this home is for us to clean it all up. I feel just a wee bit duped.

One bedroom was completely impossible to rectify without complete renovation. We jerked up the carpet, yanked out the mini blinds, (we won't discuss the creepy crawlies and mold build up on the window sills) and bought paint, new baseboards, and wood laminate flooring. Hated to spend the money but there's no way my kids are sleeping in a room that filthy.

The other 2 rooms weren't as bad-so I opted to shampoo and scrub them down with bleach. It took about 4 passes with the rug doctor before I felt satisfied with the results. The dirty water still did not run clear. El GROSSO!

Let's see what else? Oh, the baseboards, I thought for sure would need replacing or at least repainting, after scrubbing down with bleach they look good as new.

So anyway, we hope and pray we can at least squeeze 4-6 months out of this place.

The realtor stopped by to show it to a client and expects an offer within 10 days; at that point it could take anywhere from 90 days to 9 months to close. And I personally don't think there will be an actual offer anytime soon. In fact, she asked US if we wanted to meet her to discuss our possible approval. NO THANK YOU! Lovely pool, and cozy fireplace and all I would not pay $109,000 for that.

Ok I'm totally rambling here but it's because I'm trying to get my mind off my aching back and legs.

Oh and the new workout program? I know you're just dying to know about that...yes it's true. I am committed, my eating habits have not yet changed and I'm famished most of the time; however I just completed week TWO of the Couch 2 5K program. I got the app for my iPhone and it's is awesome. I'm not going to brag about my accomplishments there though until I actually FINISH the program and have some pounds to report missing.

Alright, enough of my life! ;)


-- Post From My iPhone

Cycling/jogging

I know it's not much but it IS a start, I jogged 10 miles this week, cycled across and back over the Golden Gate Bridge, and then another 4 miles of Fisherman's Wharf for a total of about 5 miles. Ok like I said I know it's not much but it's definitely a start!

Working towards a half marathon next June!

-- Post From My iPhone

Officially Moving

Gaaaahhhhh it's my least favorite thing to do I think; I'm sure I'm not alone in my feelings though so I will not elaborate, gripe, or complain!

We have been offered an opportunity to rent another home for considerably less money than we are paying now. It's a considerably smaller house than what we are used to; however, the savings we will incur justify the sacrifice.

Perks: BUILT IN POOL, REAL FIREPLACE, laminate floors, and being TWO blocks from the library all make it a very sweet deal indeed. And the timing couldn't be better, summer time no worries about missing school etc. I am really excited.

Going tomorrow to check out how we will manage the yard with the dogs as the first week of August we are adding 2 more canines to our menagerie! Fun fun indeed.

So if I'm mia for the next few weeks you know WHY!

:)


-- Post From My iPhone

Where are we?

NOT in Chowchilla! Hahaha it's 105 there today and BOY am I glad we are in Santa Maria at Jr Camp instead! It's been very nice during the days-highs of 70 lows of 53 at night. Right now it's a misty overcast slightly breezy evening. Just perfect for a campfire and roasting TOASTED COCONUT marshmallows!!!! Yummo!

Ahhhhhh but alas, my feet and back are screaming in pain from all the walking and running around I've been doing while fulfilling my duties here at camp as head counselor. Whew! Work work work! Not only am I head counselor I am also teaching everyday in the breakout sessions. Today went very well. The kids seemed to enjoy my class and most importantly seemed to absorb and retain the material.

The theme of the camp is "the Xperience" so today I taught on past experiences and how they form and make us who we are and who we will become.

Tomorrow I will teach on friendships and how important it is to associate with those who are going to help us grow healthfully in life. Also on how to BE a friend. A friend who loves and respects others and accepts them for who they are no matter their circumstances. A friend who doesn't ridicule, tease, or treat a friendship flippantly. One who values their relationships with others. Sort of "present time" experiences.

Then, on Friday, we will talk about the most important experience of all and that is the one with the One true mighty living God. That one cannot claim knowledge of who He is unless he or she truly puts himself in a position to experience Him.

I have activities and games planned to go along with these lessons as well so it should be fun!

I will be so ready to go home when this is over though. I feel like I could sleep for a week!

The kids are enjoying themselves and playing very hard and establishing new and lasting friendships and their relationship with God. That's what it's all about! I am thankful we have the blessed opportunity to enjoy this week. Hoping to hit up Splash Cafe sometime soon. ;)

Love to all...


-- Post From My iPhone

Busy-ness of Life

Well school is out! It's hard to believe it is as we seem busier than ever before. Unfortunately, I have a severe procrastination disorder and have stockpiled a few projects that are now glaring at me head on.

Piper had her puppies on May 1st and it's been a rat race ever since taking care of them and working on my website to sell them. www.theaustralianlabradoodles.com

Thankfully, they all got spoken for very quickly! One is being shipped to New Jersey, one to Mississippi, and the other 2 are going to Arizona. Amazing! I am so thankful for this tremendous opportunity to breed these awesome dogs.

Now we are preparing to send them to their new homes, as well as prepare for the multiple camps we have coming up this summer. Next week, the eleven of us (six humans, five dogs) will be heading to Santa Maria for a week of junior camp. After that, Elyse will be going to Donkey Rock Teen camp, then a few weeks later, we all (sans puppies) will be going back to Santa Maria for 2 straight weeks of R&R. I cant wait! Of course, I plan to write out lesson plans and schedule some things so that the new school year starts off right.

I've had the itch to move lately; not because I don't love the house we live in now, but simply because I crave open spaces and we need more space for our Australian Labradoodle business. So we've been keeping our eyes open waiting for the right opportunity. We looked at a house a few days ago that was lovely. It was on a vineyard that belongs to the 4th largest winery in the world! Sadly, the property manager made the mistake of telling me that if the owner knew I had 4 children, he would say NO and that by no uncertain circumstances would I be able to allow my children to "run a muck" in the vineyards; consequently, I'm not comfortable with another landlord breathing down my neck. I got my fill of that last time when the landlord didn't want me planting a garden. :( Lord knows we need our own land! First of all, if I told my kids not to run around in a vineyard they wouldn't do it, secondly, how sad to live on a wide open space and not be able to take walks and see the sights? Oh well....God has something better I am certain.
Plus, moving right now would be pure insanity. So I feel so much better, especially after writing all this out! Who in their right mind would move from a house with a pool right now anyway? There are a few glitches in this house but I'll gladly tolerate them if the kids are cool and happy.

So what else is new? Hmmmmm....I de-activated my Facebook account. No real big reason really. Actually, I should re-phrase that. No ONE real reason haha! Too many to list! Number one, I'm tired of knowing too much about too many people. My brain is fried as it is! Number 2, I had so many "friends" that want to be on fb but really wouldn't give a rat's rear end to my life. Seriously! I know that sounds so self pitying and I don't intend for it to be that way but I am up to here *raises hand above head* with people inboxing me to SELL me something OR to ask me for advice or input and for me to spend my precious time answering them and then they don't even respond or acknowledge me! Seriously, I thought most of them were better friends than that. I know people are busy....boy don't I know! Duh! But it's only common courtesy to respond and communicate. So...I'm planning to focus more on my family. I'm not trying to impress anyone out in cyberspace anyway. Who cares if we are eating filet mignon. Who cares if we don't know where our next meal is coming from? Hahaha...no one that's who! I'm sure there are some who do but I'll let them either call, write, email, or find this blog. So there!
My rant for the week. I promise I won't dwell on this any longer. I know one friend, HOLLY will appreciate this little temper tantrum. Maybe. :)

Okay so now guess what? I'm going to read to Ava. She is waiting patiently for me to read to her out of my childhood Bible storybook and I couldn't be happier and more thrilled to do it.

JOY! Where are you? Don't be mad about my fb vanishment! Get over it already and just join me in bloggerville and text town k?

JAMIE! I love your blog as well as always want to stay in touch with you and your sweet family.

Another person I will miss on fb and definitely want to stay in touch with via blog. MISHA! I adore her blog and her little writings. So next time I'm on my pc I'll be sure to post a link to her blog. (I do have one on my vittles n griddles blog)

Blessings and honor to anyone taking the time to read my most random and probably my most mindless chatterfest of the year.

-- Post From My iPhone

Chowchilla Fair 2011

Well we got really busy this year and entered quite a few items in the fair! The kids were overjoyed to find out what they won. Elyse got BEST OF SHOW for her apron, Chandler and Caeden got first place on their Ferris Wheel models and display, and Ava got first place on the little water bottle holder she knitted. Then Chandler got 2nd place on his barn watercolor painting and Elyse got 3rd on her still life photo. Here are some pictures!

 Awww he reminded us of our Jack



And last but not least, a little taste of Chowchilla Fair SOUNDS!!!!!!

St Patrick's Day Irish Toy Making!

What a perfect opportunity to use this awesome kit my brother and sister in law bought Caeden in Ireland for Christmas! Gabe and Nichol had a wonderful trip and brought back some really neat souvenirs, including this metal toy casting kit that we have been looking forward to using for awhile now. Figured no better day than St. Paddy's to do it! Enjoy....

All our supplies all set out...

 Melting the metal....

 Tapping the mold...

 Ahhhhh....hopes are high!

 Voila!

A beautiful toy soldier!

 Setting the mold up again...

 A whole set!

 Painting the masterpieces...

Mighty in battle!!!