Mr. Darcy’s Dream

Mr. Darcy’s Dream
by Elizabeth Aston

This was a lovely book. Louisa and Phoebe are of marrying age and spending the summer at Pemberley. These are the nieces of Lizzy and Mr. Darcy. They are lovely girls and it was fun to join them in their quest for love and happiness. There is, of course, an elaborate, beautiful ball and many intriguing characters. This is a light read and a wonderful journey into the world of Austen. Ms. Aston did a great job of recreating Jane Austen’s world. I recommend this for anyone whether you enjoy Austen or not.

Persuasion – Book Review

Persuasion by Jane Austen

I enjoyed this book every bit as much as the movie. I was again by turns both amused and angered by Anne’s friends and relatives. The movie was pretty faithful to the book. There were, however, one or two things more thoroughly explained in the book. Also, I received a great deal more insight into the relationship between Anne and Captain Wentworth. I identify with Anne. Though happily married, I found my prince a bit later in life than most. I was becoming quite happy in my spinsterhood, when I met my husband. We were friends for a time and both a bit surprised by falling in love. Anne often endured her family’s slights and misguided attempts at her happiness and their own. I felt as though Anne was quite misunderstood. I have felt this way myself on many occasions. I do love my family as Anne did and as I am sure many of you do as well. I believe most of us feel a bit misunderstood at one time or another by both friends and family. For this reason this story is very relatable as well as a fun and enjoyable read. I highly recommend picking up this book.

What Would Audrey Do?

written by Pamela Keogh

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It is full of wonderful lessons and ideas for living life to the fullest. It is also a story of a remarkable woman. Audrey Hepburn was loved by all who knew her. She was full of grace and humility and always put others first. She was popular and successful actress and yet kept her integrity and gracious spirit. This book looks at her life and shares with you just how she did it. I had fun reading this book and have already begun putting some of these lessons into practice.

TV Thursday – Star Trek!

I am once again a little late, but I simply had to join this week’s discussion! I am a long time fan of Star Trek! I used to watch Spock, Kirk, and Bones explore the galaxy with my dad when I was little. I grew into The Next Generation which is still a favorite. I have watched all the movies and am currently making my way through Star Trek the Animated Series. I’ve seen some of Deep Space Nine and Voyager and was an avid watcher of Enterprise. Obviously, I love all things Trek. One of my favorite memories was a Saturday Star Trek-a-thon my dad and I had before going to see Star Trek VI. Yes, we spent an entire day watching 5 movies and then went to the theater the following weekend! It was fun and fabulous! My sweetheart and I saw the newest Star Trek movie in the theater twice and I am excited to hear about it’s coming DVD release. I so loved the new movie that I can’t wait to see it again! As for the question of my favorite Trek goodness, it is without a doubt The Original Series and The Next Generation.

The Ladies of Grace Adieu

The Ladies of Grace Adieu by Susanna Clarke

This is a book of delightful short stories all involving the world of faerie. It was beautifully written! I loved each story and was almost sorry to see them end. I picked this up as a means of introducing myself to Ms. Clarke’s writing. I am now on a search for her book Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell. These stories should be a must read for anyone who enjoys faerie. I’ll leave you with a quote from the book.

“. . . magic belongs as much to the heart as to the head and everything which is done, should be done from love or joy or righteous anger.”

Persuasion (1995)

I really, really enjoyed this movie. I felt for Anne and hoped for her happy ending. I fell in love with Captain Wentworth! I was by turns amused, angered, and empathetic towards the other varied characters. In this story Anne and Wentworth are star-crossed lovers who get a second chance at a fairy tale ending. The question is one of having the courage to follow one’s heart in search of true joy and love. I was planning to read Sense and Sensibility next, buy may have to change my plans and read Persuasion instead. All I can say now is GO WATCH THIS MOVIE!!!

TV Thursday

I know it isn’t Thursday.  I just found this meme over at Gofita’s Pages and wanted to participate.  Mondays and Thursdays are prime TV times at our house due to Bones and House.

Dr. House is quite the grouch and we love him for it.  He is played by Hugh Laurie who is known for his work on Black Adder and Jeeves and Wooster.   Dr. House is a genius diagnostician.  He rarely “sees” a patient.  He has hired a team of doctors who do most of the work, but without House’s mind would be completely lost.

Bones is a unique cop show.  Agent Booth of the FBI has teamed up with Temperance Brennan of the Smithsonian to solve crimes.  I love the chemistry between these two characters.  The show is just fabulous!

We really watch very little TV anymore, but these two shows keep me coming back for more.

New Flea Market Treasure!

Our little nephew had a big birthday party today and, I believe, a lot of fun. After two hours with a house full of four and five year olds, Hubby and I headed for the quiet of the local flea market and a little alone time. I found this little treasure which I couldn’t wait to share! If you look at my banner, you’ll see my favorite of these figures. I have another one that I found some time ago at the same flea market and was thrilled and excited to have found this one. She’s quite pretty and I love the harp. I grew up around music and couldn’t do without it.

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Kane!
We Love You!

Awesome Husband Brings Home a Bit of Vintage Goodness!

I simply had to share this lovely gift from my husband. The school library was having a booksale and my husband came home with these beautiful vintage books! It was a complete surprise! He did a beautiful job selecting books he knew I would love. Pictured, you will see three Nancy Drews and a book by Louisa May Alcott. Like most girls, I read every Nancy Drew I could find and eventually graduated to the Nancy Drew Files. I read Little Women in the 5th grade for the first time and have been a fan of Miss Alcott ever since. These have brought back so many pleasant memories. There is also one titled The Fun Enclyopedia which is really cool! It is full of all sorts of ideas and projects. The last two books are Treasure Island and The Robe. These all have copyrights in the 1930’s, 40’s, and 50’s. It is sweet to know that he thought of me and wanted to bring me a bit of joy. I am truly blessed! Thank you Sweetie!!