Saturday, April 09, 2016

Sunday Post: Hobbies, Diving Into History & My April TBR List Winner

The Sunday Post is hosted by the wonderful Kimba, the Caffeinated Book Reviewer, and gives us all a chance to recap our week, talk about what we are reading, share any new books that have come our way, and whatever else we want to talk about. 

From 90 degree temperatures to cooler rainy days. What a week it has been. I quite enjoy the wet weather--more than the heat. Our Saturday was very lazy in perfect accord with the weather. Mouse and I spend our day in our pajamas. Sunday will be a busy day for us, and so a rest day was in order.

What have you all been up to this past week? What are your plans for this weekend?
Book Blogger Hop


Every Friday Coffee Addicted Writer from Coffee Addicted Writer poses a question which participants respond on their own blogs within the week (Friday through Thursday). They then share their links at the main site and visit other participants blogs.


What other interests do you have besides reading and blogging? (submitted by Elizabeth
There are other things outside of reading and blogging?! How is that possible? The truth is I spend the majority of my time working in a career I feel passionate about--at least the cause if not always the actual work. My family though is by far my biggest interest and love. Spending time with them, whether it be playing a game of make believe with my daughter, carrying on a conversation in song, taking day trips together, or cuddling with my husband on the couch. I enjoy watching movies and television and listening to music. I wish I could go to the theater more often as I love seeing musicals performed live. I like to color and sing and do puzzles as well as play board and card games, especially cribbage. I enjoy writing and receiving letters. I also like to write stories and poetry, although I do not do much of that outside of blogging these days. I love animals and rainy days. I probably enjoy eating out more than is good for me and my budget. There are many things I would like to do, and maybe one day I will.  Right now, I have a cat on my lap, and the most I can do is blog and read and catch up on my favorite television shows.

Besides reading and blogging, what you do like to do?


What I Am Reading:  After finishing Ellen Feldman's Terrible Virtue, I decided to dive into The Lost Garden by Helen Humphreys, a novel set during World War II. I was craving more historical fiction. Some of you may remember I swore up and down and backward and foreword that I would be reading Anne Bishop's Marked In Flesh as soon as April 1st came around. And I would have. Except I find myself afraid to start it knowing I will have to wait a year before I can read the next installment. I am afraid I will love the book and be sad when it ends.

What I Am Watching:  I got to see the Tardis library! It's so lovely. A booklover's dream. We are continuing to make our way through Doctor Who, which we are enjoying. We just started on Season Eight, and I've met the newest Doctor for the first time. I was really bummed to discover the season finale of The Walking Dead did not record on my DVR as planned Sunday evening. Fortunately, we were able to record an encore showing, which I watched this past Friday. I wasn't overly impressed with the episode, not at first. Those Saviors though! Cunning and deadly. That whistle . . . As everyone is wondering and some are certain they know which of our favorite characters was killed off, I find myself wondering more about those knights. Maybe it's denial. I don't want to think of who we might have lost.

Around the Blogosphere:

What's Going On Off the Blog:  Monday Mouse had her annual physical. She was happy not to have to get any immunizations, but she was nervous about the blood test. "I'm scared, Mommy." I gave her a hug and told her I know, that I would be right there for her. As we walked out of the lab, Mouse had an extra spring in her step. She said, "That wasn't so bad, Mom. I want to do that every time I have a doctor's visit." Rest assured, I will not hold her to it.

As we waited for both the doctor's appointment and later our turn at the lab, I noticed so many parents and children with tablets. I felt bad for not thinking to bring Mouse's, but then, as she and I played a drawing and guessing game in my notebook, I was glad I hadn't. Mothers all looking at their phones. Kids with their attention on their tablets. And here Mouse and I were, playing a game together. I am glad I didn't bring that tablet after all.

It was a difficult week at work--one that was emotionally exhausting. I came home from work each night and held my daughter close, cuddled with her more, and was thankful for what I have. It sounds like my husband had a rough week at work too, but for different reasons. I think we are both glad to see the weekend come.

This Past Week In Reading Mews:

Thank you for helping me choose my next read from my TBR collection:

My TBR List is a meme hosted by the awesome Michelle at Because Reading. It’s a fun way to choose a book from your TBR pile to read. The 1st Sunday of every month, I will list 3 books I am considering reading and take a poll as to which you think I should read. I will read the winner that month, and my review will follow. While I will attempt to post my review that same month, I make no promises--it may go up the following month. 



The winner of my April TBR List Poll is:

Seraphina by Rachel Hartman


Thank you to all who voted! Seraphina won with 45.9% of the votes, 17 out of 37. The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi came in second with 29.7% (11 votes), and Queen of Hearts by Colleen Oakes came in last with 24.3% (9 votes). I am eager to dive into Seraphina. And probably about time given how long I have had my copy of the book. And dragons! I love dragons. Thank you again to everyone who voted!

I hope everyone has a wonderful week. Happy Reading!


© 2016, Wendy Runyon of Musings of a Bookish Kitty. All Rights Reserved. If you're reading this on a site other than Musings of a Bookish Kitty or Wendy's feed, be aware that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.

53 comments:

  1. You and Mouse had so much more fun in that waiting room and you're paving the way for a great relationship with her into adulthood!

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    1. Lisa - I'd like to think so! The wait didn't seem terribly long at since were having fun together. :-)

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  2. Great answer to the blogger hop question! I think it's neat when people still write letters in this day and age. And if you like what you for a career that's always nice too.

    That Walking Dead episode... yikes. Not crazy about it, but I wondered about those knights guys too. Wonder if they'll help rick's team against the Saviors? Someone better lol.

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    1. Greg - I am a terrible pen pal, but I do enjoy writing letters now and then. Lately it has been about finding the time. Yes, I think I am lucky to be in a profession I like (for the most part).

      I sure hope the new guys will help Rick and the others. This Negan guy is scary.

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  3. Sorry you had a rough week emotionally and how lovely you've got Mouse to cuddle at the end of the day. And good news she needed no injections!

    I had to laugh at your sentence in the blog hop questionaire about there being something outside of reading and blogging! I'm a bit the same. Though I'd add TV!

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    1. Deborah - Thank you. Some days--and weeks-are like that unfortunately. It makes me appreciate more what I have. Like being able to cuddle more with my daughter. :-)

      I watch too much television, I'm sure. LOL

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  4. Yes it is amazing we have lives outside of blogging and reading..LOL. I love spending time with family, working as a virtual assistant for a few authors and watching our favorite shows. Let's hope we settle into a predictable weather pattern soon. I never know what to wear! Hope the week ahead is delightful :)

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    1. Kim - Sometimes I don't think I do have a life outside of work, blogging, books and family. I am glad you enjoy what you do and being with your family too!

      I do hope the weather will settle down. This up and down makes it hard to stay healthy and plays havoc with my allergies. :-( I hope you have a great week too!

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  5. Looks like you had a great week, even with some busy days at work. Glad everything went well at the doctor for your little one.

    Seraphina looks very interesting, I will have to check it out and I'll be on the lookout for your review.

    Have a great week! My Weekly Wrap-Up

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    1. Laura - Her test results came back and the results were good. I knew they would be, but I'm still relieved.

      I hope to start on Seraphina soon. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as others have.

      Thank you for visiting!

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  6. I love days where I’m able to stay in my pajamas all day. Those really are the best. I hope you and Mouse had a great one! ;)
    It sounds like you have many interests. Love that. Next to reading, I love to cook, watch movies and series and above all I love spending my free day with my boyfriend. He makes my day!
    I have never seen Doctor Who.. I always feel like I’m missing out on something, so I hope I’ll have time to watch it soon.
    I hope you and your husband have a good and relaxing weekend. Sounds like you need it! ;)
    Have a great week and happy reading!

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    1. Maureen - Me too! We probably have them too often around our house. Usually on a Sunday though so this was a bit different for us. :-) Watching series is so addicting. It's taken me away from movie watching to some degree. I hope you like Doctor Who if you give it a try. It can take a few episodes to really get into, but I think it's worth it.

      I hope you have a great week!

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  7. Sounds like a fabulous week, even if it was very busy, Wendy. Ha! It always makes me smile when people ask me what 'other' hobbies I have... I do have some, though, and we love playing cards and board games here, too.
    Have a wonderful week ahead and happy reading. I hope you'll enjoy your April TBR pick.
    Lexxie @ (un)Conventional Bookviews

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    1. Lexxie - Reading is so involved. I always want to say it's more than just actually reading book. LOL I enjoy playing card and board games too. :-)

      I hope you have a great week too!

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  8. :) Maybe Mouse has a future in science or medicine! Hope next week is better for you and for your husband.

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    1. Jenclair - One can dream--only I'm not sure I want those university bills! ;-) Some days I think she's more likely to end up in theater.

      And thanks. I hope this week is better too. I have the day off tomorrow, which I'm looking forward to. Hopefully I can get some things done around the house.

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  9. Yay! I voted for that one!!! I hope you love it. I have wanted to read that one for a long time just never really got around to it so I am really looking forward to your review!

    I hope this week is a better one for you *HUGS*

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    1. Michelle - Yay! I am glad your choice won. :-) I have a feeling I will really enjoy it. Thank you for the hugs. :-)

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  10. I'm also interested to know what you make of Seraphina - I was impressed with it as it takes dragonkind in a different direction. I would also highly recommend The Star-Touched Queen, which is a beautiful, lush read...:). I hope next week is a less bumpy. My Weekly Wrap-Up is https://sjhigbee.wordpress.com/2016/04/10/weekly-wrap-up-10th-april-2016/

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    1. Sarah - I like that about it too. I'm curious to see what Hartman does with it. I am glad you enjoyed The Star-Touched Queen! I definitely plan to read that as well. And hopefully soon. I'm feeling a fantasy binge coming on. :-)

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  11. Sorry your week seemed stressful Wendy. Hope this week is stress-free.

    My almost 4 y/o granddaughter loves her doctor and watches when they draw blood -- I still look away to this day. She's amazing.

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    1. Diane - Thank you! Today hasn't been too bad, and so hopefully the rest of the week will follow suit. I am off tomorrow, and I'm sure that will help. :-)

      Maybe our girls will go into medicine. Haha!

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  12. I love your response to the Blogger Hop on Friday. You have many interesting and fun hobbies and favorite things. Your love for your family shines through everywhere!
    Seraphina has been on my wishlist for a very long time since it was recommended by Lark @ Bookwyrms Hoard.

    Enjoy your week and thanks for a peek into your world.

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    1. Rita - Thank you! At first I didn't think I would be able to come up with anything. :-) I really do love my family. I'm glad it shows. <3

      I can't remember when I first heard about Seraphina. I know it's been along while since I added it to my TBR collection though. I am looking forward to reading it!

      Enjoy your week too!

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  13. Yay for Doctor Who! I thought Season 8 was a little rough. It took some time for Capaldi to find his version of the Doctor but I loved season 9. How are we going to wait until 2017 for the next one??? Glad Mouse took her blood test so well. That's great about playing a drawing game instead of bringing her tablet. I'd say that definitely worked out!

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    1. Katherine - Capaldi is definitely different from Smith and Tennant. I am anxious to see how he fits the role. My coworker hated Matt Smith as at the doctor and has really taken to Capaldi. I can't believe we're almost caught up!

      I am glad our playing together worked out too. I'm sure she wouldn't have minded having her tablet though. Like many kids, she is obsessed with it and would watch or play on it all the time if she could. We try to limit her time on it, but probably not to the degree we should.

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  14. I'm with Mouse on those blood tests! I don't like them either.

    I hope to read Terrible Virtue soon...and I love looking forward to books I'm going to read next. I'm also ogling Eligible.

    Enjoy your week...and here are MY WEEKLY UPDATES

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    1. Laurel-Rain - I hate blood tests. I swear I can feel the blood leaving my body. My husband says I'm insane. Haha

      I hope you like Terrible Virtue when you read it. I will be posting my review later this week. Eligible sure sounds good, doesn't it?

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  15. Lots of things going on this week, Wendy!!

    I'm so glad that you and Mouse were playing a little game while at the doctor's office. I can't believe that all the other mothers were on their phones, while their kids were on their tablets! We're losing human contact to technology....how sad. So BRAVO to you for bucking this unfortunate trend! And I'm sure that your game with Mouse helped her to feel less scared, too.

    As for activities outside of reading and blogging, there's definitely nothing more important than one's family, so it's great that you give them all your love, and a lot of your time!

    I didn't know you did coloring, or wrote stories and poetry. I can relate to your not wanting to publish your writing, but maybe we could read something here on your blog? And see your coloring, too? :)

    So the winner of your TBR poll was "Seraphina"!! YAY!! I voted for this book!! I need to read it myself; it's been sitting on my shelves for quite some time now....lol.

    Thanks for all the wonderful updates! And thanks as well for stopping by my blog and commenting on my BBH post!! Hope you, hubby, and Mouse are enjoying your Sunday!! <3 :)

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    1. Maria - I imagine you are right--that my playing with Mouse helped calm her fears about the blood test. I enjoyed playing with her too. I don't often get to play with her during the day because I'm at work, and so I might as well take advantage while I can. :-)

      I've thought about sharing some of my coloring on my blog. Most of the time when I get a chance to color, it's my daughter and I coloring together. She likes to color in my books and insists we color the same picture together. :-)

      I'm looking forward to reading Seraphina. It sounds like something I will really like.

      I hope you have a great week, Maria!

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  16. Sorry to hear work was challenging for you and your husband but how great that your little one did so well at the doctor! Hope you've been enjoying your weekend with your loved ones! And, yay, can't wait to hear what you think of Seraphina. I voted for that one :)

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    1. Iliana - Sometimes my job gets to me, try as I might not to let it. I suppose I shouldn't be doing it anymore if it didn't though. We had a very nice weekend. I didn't get as much reading done as I hoped on Saturday, but that's okay. :-)

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  17. Busy week for you. Hope this week is better.

    Thanks for sharing all of your interests....I enjoy this week's question because we get to learn more about fellow bloggers.

    You have a lot of wonderful interests.

    ENJOY this new week.

    Happy Hopping!!

    Elizabeth
    Silver's Reviews
    My Blog Hop Answer

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    1. Elizabeth - I hope this week is better too! So far it is, but it's early yet. Yes, questions like today let us glimpse another side of each other. It's been fun to see. :-)

      I hope you have a good week!

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  18. A Saturday spent relaxing at home in pajamas sounds like a good one. Like you, I enjoy my family time and watching movies/tv and and listening to music. Also, crocheting and running if I find the time.
    I hope you get to rest again after the busy week. Happy reading!

    And ugh, about TWD finale! I was nervous watching it and Neagan and company are pretty tough. But honestly, Rick should have thought all that out better, he got way in over his head. I will be watching Fear the Walking Dead starting again tonight.

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    1. Naida - It was just what we needed! We ended up spending the next day Disneyland and so the extra rest came in handy. :-)

      Yes, Rick was too sure of himself for awhile there. Something like this was bound to happen. I haven't yet seen the first episode of the new season of Fear the Walking Dead, but I hope to see it tomorrow.

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  19. I've noticed the parents and children each have their electronic outlet these days- I have to say in my time (you know, back in the '90s) I had my Gameboy, but I only played it when I was at home alone, not out in public with my mom. I think face-to-face time is very important, even knowing as little as I do about early childhood development. You want them to bond to their parent, not solely to a machine for fun stuff and learning.

    I'm waiting for a price drop on Marked in Flesh, but I understand your conundrum. Anne Bishop's Others series just rocks!

    Sorry you had a difficult week at work- I hope the coming week is better for you!
    ~Litha Nelle

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    1. Litha Nelle - Yes, it's very common today. Mouse does have a tablet at home which she's pretty good at using. We don't take it with us when we're at Disneyland to help pass time while waiting in line. Instead we talk and play games. She probably wouldn't mind having use of her tablet while we wait, but we'll save that for when she's older and thinks to beg us if she can take it along.

      I hope you have a good week too!

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  20. It was wonderful that you get to spend more bonding time with Mouse at the waiting room than giving her a tablet. Though there's nothing wrong with it, I feel that communication is still the best among all. :-)

    Yay! Glad that Seraphina won the vote!
    Hope you've a great week, Wendy!

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    1. Melody - I am glad we had that time too. :-) There are plenty of times when Mouse is on her tablet--some even when she probably shouldn't be. But I like it when she and I are able to share moments like that.

      I am looking forward to reading Seraphina! I hope you have a good week too!

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  21. I hope your next week will be better. Here its already half way through Monday and its trying because the heat is intense! Just trying to get through chores.

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    1. Mystica - Thank you! I hope so too. I wish I could send you some of our cool weather. It's hard to motivate yourself to do chores when it's so out. I don't envy you.

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  22. Ooh yay! I hope you love Seraphina. It's on my shelf gathering dust. ;) I look forward to reading your thoughts. Happy reading!

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    1. Brandee - I hope I love it too. :-) My copy has been gathering dust too, I'm afraid. Not anymore! Haha

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  23. Sounds like you and your family all could use that weekend. i hope you had some time to relax this weekend! And while I wouldn't know what to do without my e-reader or computer, I am also disappointed when you're visiting someone and see everyone glued to their own screen. So I think it's great you didn't take that tablet and enjoyed a fun guessing game.

    I also spend most of my time besides blogging and reading on work. I love my job and am passionate about that, so I don't really mind. I also love to play video games or go out and walk. I also like colouring books, but don't make as much time for that as I would like.

    And yay that was the book I voted for! I hope you'll enjoy it! Have a great week!

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    1. Lola - Yes, it was a much needed weekend of fun and relaxation! I get frustrated with my husband sometimes because he always has his phone out, even when at Disneyland.

      I like to take walks too, although I don't do that often enough.

      I'm excited to be reading Seraphina! I'm sure it will be good. :-) Have a good week yourself!

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  24. The Tardis library sounds so awesome! Doctor Who is on my bucket list so one of these days I will watch it. I love that you are watching it with your daughter so maybe I will do the same. That makes it sound so magical.

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    1. Athira - I wish I could tour the Tardis library in person. Of course, that would mean the Tardis would have to be real. :-) I'm glad my daughter enjoys Doctor Who--although sometimes I wonder how it could not give her nightmares!

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  25. It's wonderful that your career is so fulfilling. I feel the same way about mine. It can be stressful, though. That's where reading, blogging, and gardening come in. These are now activities I do with my kids (including the blogging, as of today!).

    Also, thanks for the link to my post on jury duty!

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    1. A.M.B. - Yes, mine can be stressful too. And sad. But hopefully I am doing some good. :-)

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  26. I love your answer. I sew costumes for entertainment and today is opening for Sister Act. I also love to watch the plays for the costumes I make.....
    Sportochick’s Musings Blog Hop Answer

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    1. Teri - How cool is that! I am sure your costumes will be a big hit. I hope the musical goes well!

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