A Reader's Journey

Review: Your Whisper in the Dark

2012-01-28T21:03:00.001-05:00

Your Whisper in the Dark by K.C. Kendricks

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Hmm... I am a bit conflicted about my rating for this one. I liked it, but there were niggles. I guess I'm somewhere between 2 stars and 3 stars. I genuinely like the characters in the story.

Kenzie has just ended a relationship that lasted seventeen years. He and Dennis had an open relationship, so I don't understand why he was so upset that Dennis had sex with someone else. I do get why he was upset that Dennis said he loved another man, but by that time, Kenzie had decided he was no longer in love with Dennis. In fact, Kenzie admitted that, being an abandoned child who grew up in an orphanage, it was the idea of being left that bothered him more. I guess a lot of Kenzie's problems with Dennis' infidelity didn't quite make sense to me since they had the open relationship from the beginning.

Mason, Kenzie's new love interest, is a nice guy. I do wish that it had been possible to see the relationship grow. That's a statement that I've found myself making or thinking about all the books in this series since they generally only really let the reader see the first few days of the burgeoning relationships.

Also, I was a bit bothered by the comment that a lot of gay couples had problems with fidelity because I don't think that is true.

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Review: What You Don't Confess

2012-01-28T18:39:00.001-05:00

What You Don't Confess by K.C. Kendricks

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Closer to 3.5 stars.

So far, this is my favorites book of the series. Dylan and Cass make a good couple. It is important to note that each book in this series chronicles the first few days of each couple's relationship rather than showing the relationships building over time.

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Review: Open Roads

2012-01-28T11:14:00.001-05:00

Open Roads by K.C. Kendricks

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is short at only 72 pages. The first 67 give us Tyler and Noel's first couple of days together. When you hit page 68, you get the epilogue, which is six months later, and while I enjoyed the story, I wish the author had let us see those missing six months.

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Review: A Hard Habit To Break

2012-01-28T07:14:00.001-05:00

A Hard Habit To Break by K.C. Kendricks

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Closer to 2.5 stars.

I liked the characters okay, but there were some niggles. Also-the guts got back together pretty quickly after hiding from each other for thirteen years.

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Review: The Decisions We Make

2012-01-28T01:22:00.001-05:00

The Decisions We Make by RJ Scott

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet story that brought a few tears to my eyes. I'd love to see what is in store for these guys in the future.

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Friday & Some Reads

2012-01-27T22:43:00.001-05:00

Yippee! It's Friday night, and I have a nap scheduled for tomorrow. :)

Today wasn't bad. The new students are definitely challenging, but things went much better today than yesterday. I had to put my foot down with an exceptional children's teacher who decided to make changes to my classes without consulting me. That just doesn't work. I've taught EC kids for fourteen years. Unlike some folks, I actually like teaching EC kids. I love it when they have successes and actually do things that they thought they couldn't do. I'm willing to compromise and discuss ideas and strategies with the EC teacher, but I am not going to have someone make decisions about my students in my classes without consulting me first, especially when that person has never been in my classroom. I made my point, she apologized, and all is good.

Shallow Coach was conspicuously, blissfully absent from the lunch table today. I am the kind of person who really wants everyone to like me. Usually, it just kills me to think that I've offended someone, etc., but I don't feel that way about him. I don't need someone like him to like me, and having him around just makes life more stressful. Hopefully, he'll find a new lunch group and won't return.

Today's reads:

Nanny Dearest by Shawn Bailey
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

2.5 stars

This one was cute and sweet, but the story could have used a bit more meat to it. I would have liked for it to have been longer and more developed.

Hey, There's Fur in My Wedding Cake by Stephani Hecht
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Very cute introduction to a new couple in the series.

Russell's Reversal by Stephani Hecht
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I adore Dalton, and I love a bad boy who wants to turn good for his sweetie.

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Updates, Recent Reads, and Happy List

2012-01-26T18:49:00.000-05:00

I'm tired, and my thoughts are scattered; therefore, you get a bulleted list.

Tendinitis sucks, obviously.

I am, once again, falling behind on commenting on blogs. It isn't that I am not interest or don't care. I am and I do. I just feel so tired in the evenings that putting words together is hard. My mom and Lucy called last night, and I struggled to simply participate in the conversations.

I am not a fan of January.

I was running late this morning and obviously not really awake. That's my excuse for making it through my first class before realizing my shirt was inside out. It's okay if you laughed at that. I laughed too.

I made Shallow Coach so angry that he stormed away from the lunch table. He is teaching a student whom I had last term, and he said she should go out with a boy in the class. I said, "Nah, she's dating Toni." Well, SC responded with "Oh, I don't know him." Before I thought, I said, "Her." His response was "She's a lesbian? That's a pity." That was the absolute last straw for me. I let him know that I was tired of his bigoted comments and that I didn't want to hear them any more. I also told him that he needed to start thinking before opening his mouth. That ticked him off and he left. Am I upset that he left? Heck no. I hope he doesn't come back.

My second class now understands that Mexico is not a state. I may not be able to teach them to read above a third grade level or to capitalize their names, but they will know that. *sigh*

Review: Bait

2012-01-22T05:17:00.001-05:00

Bait by Alex Sanchez

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bait is a heart-wrenching book that has a much more serious tone than Sanchez's Rainbow Trilogy. I hurt for Diego as I read his story, and I could see glimpses of teens whom I've actually known in him. This books wasn't an easy read in the emotional sense, but it was a story that I couldn't put down. I read it straight through, and I think its message is so good that I'll be donating my copy to my school library.

A sort-of-spoiler is below. You can see it by highlighting the area with your mouse.

I have to say that I don't know if I can forgive Diego's mother. Her reaction to Diego the first time he tried to share his secret and her later excuse that they were family and she wanted a better life for them is just unacceptable to me. I know Diego had to find forgiveness to heal, but I can't excuse her actions. I will say that I appreciate the fact that the author didn't really try to convince readers to like the woman. It's just pointed out to us that Diego can't hold on to his anger and be healthy.

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Review: Twice Bitten

2012-01-21T23:54:00.001-05:00

Twice Bitten by Dave Ferraro

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Closer to 2.75 stars.

I would have given this a solid three stars, but there were distracting editing errors and a few other niggles. I felt like thing were wrapped up a bit too easily in the end. That being said, I did like the characters and the premise. I would like a sequel so that I could see just how things continue to work out for these characters.

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Updates, Conversations With Students, and Awesomeness

2012-01-21T18:52:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I've really posted. I have been reading a lot, as you can tell by the reviewettes that I've been adding the lazy way by just clicking "post to blog" at Goodreads. I've been really lackadaisical and have added most of those via my smartphone. Today, I actually fired up the laptop.

Poor Lucy's sweet dog that she has had for almost 14 years passed away the other day. Obviously, she was devastated. I'll miss the little goober, too. I used to dogsit him all the time.
Life has been hectic for me as we ended one semester with state tests and are starting second semester. I'm looking forward to getting all new kids; however, several of them I recognize from the suspension lists that get sent out. Keep your fingers crossed for me. I tend to get along with a lot of the hard-to-love kids, but these kids are pretty tough. I have high expectations, and I'll let them know them know that on the very first day.
I've been reading so much because January is just a sucky month. I needed the escape. It has really helped the month go by.

Conversations with students:

Pencils

Bobby: How do they get lead in pencils?

Me: Actually, it isn't lead. It's graphite, and they do it by magic. (Okay, I wasn't really sure. I assumed it had something to do with gluing two pieces of wood together, but I was feeling facetious. Bobby, unfortunately, doesn't get sarcasm."

Bobby: (thinking for a minute) I bet they melt the wood.

Me: Wood doesn't melt.

Bobby: Yes, it does.

Me: *shakes head sadly*

If he said to jump off a bridge . . .

As I was helping a student at her desk, I heard a loud thunk. I turned to see Timmy sitting at his desk with a big red mark on his forhead.

Me: Okay, what happened?

Timmy, pointing to Allen: He said he'd slam his forehead into his desk on the count of 3 if I'd do it. He didn't though!

Allen: *laughs* Dude, I can't believe you did that.

Timmy, looking ticked off: You lied!

Me: If you fell for that, you deserve a concussion. Here, go to the nurse.

Honestly, this child doesn't have too many functioning brain cells. He really needs to protect the few he does have.

What does Nickelodeon have to do with it?

There's a senior whom I taught as a freshman who comes to visit me a couple of times a week. He's going to be an English teacher, and I've scheduled him to be a student TA during the new semester. He's one of my favorite kids of all time, and he's out and proud. I think he came out in fifth grade. Here's a recent conversation:

Me: I'm worried about Mark. He seems to be giving up on calculus.

Adam: I wish he'd just admit he's gay.

Me: What? He's straight, I thought. He's dating Brenda.

Adam: Puhlease! Everybody has seen Brenda's boobs except Mark. He's gay.

Me: Have you talked to him about this?

Adam: Yeah, I asked. He said he's straight.

Me: Then that's what you have to go with. If he is or isn't, that's his business.

Adam: *sighs* I know.

Me: Plus, if he isn't, you know coming out isn't easy for a lot of people. Just take him at his word. Don't pester him.

Adam: But he watches too much Nickelodeon to be straight!

Me: *stares, speechless*

Awesomeness

Why I adore my coworker A.:

A. has kids, and her youngest, Connor, is almost four. She took him with her when she was picking up donations for one of our local charities the other day. A. stopped at one family's house to pick up a donation of used clothing. When she put them in the van, one of the bags fell open, and Connor saw a purse with a rhinestone crown on it. He looked and said, "How pretty!" Later, A. and Connor stopped at the supermarket to pick up a few things, and as they were getting out of the car, A. saw that her son had the purse on his little shoulder. A. asked, "Connor, are you taking that in?" Connor said, "This is my prince purse. See the crown? I need some money to put in it for the store." Rather than telling him boys don't carry purses, etc., A. gave him two dollars, and they went in the store. If her kid wants to carry the prince purse, then he can carry the prince purse. Isn't she an awesome mom?

Review: A Daddy for Christmas

2012-01-20T16:18:00.001-05:00

A Daddy for Christmas by Ashlynn Monroe

My rating: 0 of 5 stars

From the publisher, Silver Publishing:

Charlie St Claire fell in love with three little boys and decided to give them a home. Richmond Wolfe had a dangerous secret and left to protect his sons. Do-gooder Charlie wanted his kids and now he'd have fight to keep them.

I have purchased and enjoyed several books from Silver Publishing. The majority of those have been in the M/M genre. When I saw the blurb for this particular story, I assumed that Charlie was male. Well, you know what they say happens when you assume . . . Anyway, it turned out to be a M/F book. That is not the reason for my low rating; I do enjoy M/F stories quite a bit. However, I have to think that the blurb is deliberately vague and misleading by not using a female pronoun, especially since quite a few of the stories published by this company are M/M stories. I sort of feel like I was tricked into purchasing this one.

As I said, the surprise gender of the main character is not the reason for the low rating. Those of you who know me, know that I generally enjoy what I read and that it is extremely rare for me to write a negative review. However, the writing in this book was quite choppy. The dialogue was wooden and unnatural; it just did not seem to flow, nor did it sound realistic.

Some of the events, and I'm not talking about the paranormal ones, were unbelievable. Honestly, a social worker who wants to adopt three small boys is not going to hop on a plane with them in order to fly to Alaska to surprise their "deadbeat" dad at Christmas. One, a social worker couldn't afford that. Two, a social worker would understand the various dangers of such a plan. Other events were just trite to the point of being cliches.

I had other niggles such as using the word "mist" instead of "midst." There was even an error in the dedication. I hate being so negative, especially when the book included things like children in need of a home, a trope that generally draws me to a story.

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Review: The Winter Courtship Rituals of Fur-Bearing Critters

2012-01-19T22:21:00.001-05:00

The Winter Courtship Rituals of Fur-Bearing Critters by Amy Lane

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So cute! I love how Crawford is a mixture of sweet and grumpy. Ben is just perfect for him.

I have to say that the special instructions at the end cracked me up!

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Review: Thunderball

2012-01-19T19:00:00.001-05:00

Thunderball by Mimi Riser

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved Sylver and Hunter's humorous banter in this one. This over-the-top sci-fi series might not be for everyone, but I'm enjoying it.

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Review: Fall

2012-01-18T21:44:00.001-05:00

Fall by Carol Lynne

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

This one has sweetness and angst. I'm looking forward to book 4.

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Review: Showdown in Mudbug

2012-01-18T19:24:00.001-05:00

Showdown in Mudbug by Jana Deleon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the final book in the series, and it was enjoyable. The mystery of Helena's death is finally solved- and I have to say it was a bit obvious by the time I got to this book. However, this one did fill in a lot of details that explained the why of it all.

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Review: Escaped

2012-01-17T18:51:00.001-05:00

Escaped by J.P. Barnaby

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love these boys, and I cried for them. Now, I can't wait for the final book.

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Review: Mischief in Mudbug

2012-01-16T12:03:00.001-05:00

Mischief in Mudbug by Jana Deleon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Humorous mystery that was a bit predictable; however, there were a couple of unexpected twistd. Helena is more amusing in this installment, and she's definitely much nicer in death than she was in life.

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Review: Trouble in Mudbug

2012-01-16T01:28:00.001-05:00

Trouble in Mudbug by Jana Deleon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a good, easy story about a botanist with a missing husband whom she can't divorce and a dead mother-in-law she can't get rid of.

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Review: The Last Supper

2012-01-15T13:55:00.001-05:00

The Last Supper by Scarlet Blackwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This account of Daniel and Luc's wedding was cute and amusing. I'd like to see a story about their lives after the honeymoon.

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Review: Second Helpings

2012-01-15T12:42:00.001-05:00

Second Helpings by Scarlet Blackwell

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

2.5 stars. I like both Luc and Daniel, but they were a bit frustrating in this one. They do have redeemable qualities, though.

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Review: An Unsettled Range

2012-01-15T10:18:00.001-05:00

An Unsettled Range by Andrew Grey

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Liam is a sweetheart who has had a tough life. Troy has been hiding from himself and his family. I almost quit reading this one in the beginning because Troy was married and was cheating on his wife. I have no patience with cheaters, and I was afraid I wouldn't find anything redeemable about the character. I still can't excuse what he did, but at least he was divorced before he met Liam. Also, he did feel badly about his actions, as he should have. In the end, I enjoyed the story.

I need to stop posting these reviewettes from my phone using Swype. When I look back at them, sometimes I see that the words I intended are not the words that I Swyped. *sigh*

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Review: Handyman

2012-01-15T04:45:00.001-05:00

Handyman by Jade Buchanan

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Good short story.

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Review: Rendered

2012-01-15T04:34:00.001-05:00

Rendered by Bailey Bradford

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable installment in this series.

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Review: Black and Blue and Pretty Dead Too

2012-01-15T02:39:00.001-05:00

Black and Blue and Pretty Dead Too by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good story. This is the tenth book in the series, and I hope Zubro plans to write more.

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Review: Drop Dead

2012-01-14T17:50:00.001-05:00

Drop Dead by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Good story.

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Review: Hook, Line, and Homicide

2012-01-12T19:22:00.001-05:00

Hook, Line, and Homicide by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Despite a couple of niggles (inconsistencies), I think this one is my favorite of the series. I shed a tear or two.

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Review: Nerds Who Kill

2012-01-10T17:58:00.001-05:00

Nerds Who Kill by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This one is probably my least favorite of the series so far, but I still enjoyed it. I really appreciate the banter between Fenwick and Turner.

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Review: Dead Egotistical Morons

2012-01-08T22:06:00.001-05:00

Dead Egotistical Morons by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second time this author has created a character whom I want to adopt.

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Review: Sex and Murder.com

2012-01-07T22:29:00.001-05:00

Sex and Murder.com by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a good addition to the Paul Turner mysteries. I'm moving on to the next one immediately.

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Review: The Truth Can Get You Killed

2012-01-07T06:08:00.001-05:00

The Truth Can Get You Killed by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good mystery. Certain events made me sad.

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Review: Another Dead Teenager

2012-01-04T20:29:00.001-05:00

Another Dead Teenager by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really am enjoying this series. I do wish that it spent more time on Paul's relationship with his boyfriend.

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My God Doesn't Hate

2012-01-03T19:51:00.000-05:00

My God doesn't hate.

Review: Political Poison

2012-01-03T07:12:00.001-05:00

Political Poison by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Another enjoyable mystery. I love seeing Paul with his kids, and I want a Mrs. Talucci of my own.

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Review: The Only Good Priest

2012-01-02T19:56:00.001-05:00

The Only Good Priest by Mark Richard Zubro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really am enjoying the Tom and Scott mysteries. This one would have been 5 stars, but there was one little mystery left unsolved. I guess it was something that Tom and Scott probably wouldn't have been able to figure out in real life, but I need to know!

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2011 Reading Challenge Stats

2012-01-02T17:52:00.000-05:00

My reading goal for 2011 was 350 short stories, novelllas, and novels. Did I make it? No, I did not; however, I am not disappointed at my ending number of 310 works comprised of 49,480 pages, especially since I had that two month reading slump.

I'm too lazy to list all 310 books. I tried that for a couple of years, but it was more hassle than it was worth. Here's a link to the list on Goodreads. Oh, you do have to be a Goodreads member to view the list.

How I shelved my books in 2011:

I got lazy when it came to shelving books. For example, I have a "because-I-am-a-cover-slut" shelf that I really didn't use much this year. Of course, that could be because I've tried to stop letting half-nekkid me with washboard abs tempt me into buying books. Oh, let's be honest, I tried to stop, but I still get distracted by the hotties.

The next screenshot shows that I liked most of what I read in 2011.

I had two that received one star and twenty-two that got two stars. That means that of my 310 reads, 286 received three or more stars. Not bad at all. Of course, that may just mean that I rate too highly, but if you know me, you know I read for escapism. If the book got me out of my head for a while, I feel comfortable giving it at least three stars. I did have one DNF book, but I didn't list it because I hope to actually finish it one day.

I'm setting the same goal of 350 for 2012. I thought about dropping the number to 300, but I decided not to lower my expectations.

Happy reading, everyone!

Happy New Year and Recent Reads

2012-01-01T16:43:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had an enjoyable NYE. I spent mine with my parents, reading, and watching a Moonshiners marathon. That television show was oddly fascinating and much more humorous than I expected.

My last reads of 2011:

In Dog We Trust by Neil Plakcy
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a cute, not necessarily realistic story, but I enjoyed the mystery and the goofy dog.

A Simple Suburban Murder by Mark Richard Zubro
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this mystery, which was originally published in 1989. I'm glad the series is now available in ebook; otherwise, I probably would have never discovered it.

This book is written in first person, and at times the writing is a bit choppy; however, I enjoyed the story and the characters. It is obvious that the author has had teaching experience because Tom's experiences and frustrations are definitely similar to what I deal with each year.

Why Isn't Becky Twitchell Dead? by Mark Richard Zubro
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is probably closer to 3.5 stars.

I enjoyed the mystery in this one, and Tom and Scott are a fantastic couple. I think the writing style of this one has improved compared to the first book in the series.

I also think every school has a student similar to Becky Twitchell.

Sorry Now? by Mark Richard Zubro
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in Zubro's Paul Turner series, and unlike the Tom and Scott series, it is written in third person, which I prefer.

I'm looking forward to the next story in the series.

Love Means... Family by Andrew Grey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A sweet story

My first reads of 2012:

The Kingdom of Dog by Neil Plakcy
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is another cute mystery featuring Rochester, the goofy golden retriever. I hope Plakcy adds to the series.

My Big Fat SX-File Wedding by Mimi Riser
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Short and silly, which I can appreciate

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This and That

2011-12-29T02:40:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone is having a good week. So far, I've gotten my car back from the body shop and survived a trip to the dentist.

I'm headed back to the Land of No Internet for a few days. I hope to be back on Saturday

I'm still sucking at my diet, and I haven't been to the gym in a while. Work kept me too busy for a bit, and then I contracted this plague that I'm finally recovering from. Hopefully, I can get back on track soon. I'm taking my walking shoes to my parents'. I hope to get a few miles in each day while I'm there. Well, I will if it isn't too cold. I enjoy walking on those country roads, but I don't want to freeze.

I've gotten in a good deal of reading over the past few days, but I'm not going to make my 2011 reading goal. I'm okay with that. I may have to set my sights lower for 2012. I think I need a more realistic number. I would have met the goal, I believe, if I hadn't had those two months when I just couldn't bring myself to read anything.

I now know what a butterfly board is thanks to all that reading. Here's a picture of one. It's NSFW, of course. Here's another picture of one if you really, really want to look.

Those of you who know me know that I hate the word "tits." I'm adding "buttocks" to my list of words that I hate. Every time I see that word in a sex scene, I hear it in Forrest Gump's voice. That is so not sexy.

I hate it that I end some of my sentences in prepositions when I write on this blog, but I'm too lazy to fix them.

Review: Blood Relations

2011-12-28T23:10:00.001-05:00

Blood Relations by K.C. Burn

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Enjoyable, but predictable.

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Review: Dead Run

2011-12-28T23:07:00.001-05:00

Dead Run by Josh Lanyon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Good mystery. I hope this isn't the end of the series.

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Review: Blood Heat

2011-12-28T23:01:00.001-05:00

Blood Heat by Josh Lanyon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is my least favorite of the series, but it is still a good story.

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Review: Old Poison

2011-12-28T22:59:00.001-05:00

Old Poison by Josh Lanyon

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great story!

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Recent Reads

2011-12-27T18:51:00.000-05:00

He Ain't Heavy by J.P. Bowie
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This was an okay read.

Wolfsbane by K.C. Burn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this story, and I liked the characters. However, I did want to smack Lachlan a couple of times.

The End Game by Lisa Marie Davis
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I liked this one.

Love's Surrender by Samantha Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I can always count on Samantha Kane to deliver a hot story!

Dangerous Ground by Josh Lanyon

Very well-written. After finishing it, I had to buy the rest of the series.

Bayou's End by Lynn Lorenz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

An enjoyable second book in the series.

Scarcity Holidays by AKM Miles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Such a sweet series!

Your Cheatin' Heart by Mimi Riser
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This one gets three stars because I found it humorous. I'd love to smack Hunter upside the head for cheating on Sylver. Generally, I hate stories with characters who have cheated, but it is made clear that fidelity is not part of a cat-shifter's nature. If the story hadn't been so over-the-top, I wouldn't have been able to accept that excuse, but since the two characters live in a world where they have to battle aliens called crocodoids, I can accept it a bit more as part of his shifter nature.

Of course if I were Sylver, I would have neutered the kitty-boy.

A Note in the Margin by Isabelle Rowan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just as good the second time around.

Twelve Days by Isabelle Rowan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was nice to see more of John and David, and I'd love for Rowan to write about them again. David still has a lot to deal with.

Unthinkable by Vicktor Alexander
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the premise and liked seeing people whom I know pop up as characters; however, I had a few niggles.

Inconceivable by Vicktor Alexander
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I had a few niggles with this one, but I really love Tommy and Ton.

Big Bad Beast by Shelly Laurenston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this series. I would have given this one five stars, but I think Dee-Ann gave in to her feelings for Ric a bit too easily for her character.

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Review: All She Wrote

2011-12-27T00:29:00.001-05:00

All She Wrote by Josh Lanyon

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This one is well-written, but it moved a bit slowly for me.

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It's been a while . . .

2011-12-22T17:41:00.000-05:00

I haven't really been online lately. I've been super-busy and pretty tired. I currently have the plague. Okay, it's probably just a cold, but I'm feeling a bit dramatic.

Earlier this week, I had a minor car accident. I was driving home in the dark and in heavy traffic. The truck in front of me had several car batteries in its bed, and the driver had left the tailgate down. The batteries slid off the truck, and I hit one of them. I couldn't avoid it. The car behind me was so close that slamming on my brakes would have meant being rear-ended. The lane beside me was packed with cars. The driver of the truck didn't stop, and no one got the license plate number. I'm thankful that I have insurance. This has delayed my trip to my parents' for Christmas, but that's okay. I still haven't finished my Christmas shopping. *sigh*

I had an awesome birthday this past weekend. I got to go to a restaurant that I'd been dying to try. It was fabulous. I also saw The Muppets, which I loved. The theater was mostly filled with adults. There were only a few kids there. When Kermit started singing "Rainbow Connection," all the adults joined in. It was absolutely precious.

Here's the song from the original movie:

Recent Reads:

Explosive Eighteen by Janet Evanovich
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Well, her car didn't get blown up in this one.

Gravity by Sean Michael
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This one was just what I expected.

Daddy, Daddy and Me by Sean Michael
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This one is sweet.

Freefall by Andrea Speed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This continues to be one of my favorite series.

Ex's and O's by Bailey Bradford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this story, but I probably would have given it four stars if the author hadn't reused the premise of the adult virgin who just thought he had a low sex drive until he met the perfect man. It was a bit distracting since she has already used that scenario once in this same series.

My happy list:

A few days without students
blueberry & sour cream cornbread
friends and family
little gifts my students gave me
volunteering

This week's playlist:

"Rainbow Connection" by Kermit
"Dear Avery" by the Decemberists

"Danny Boy" by Jim Reeves
"Let Your Love Flow" by the Bellamy Brothers
"Smackwater Jack" by Carole King
"Dark Blue" by Jack's Mannequin
"Better Than I Know Myself" by Adam Lambert

"Not the Kid" by Communist Daughter

"Another Postcard" by Barenaked Ladies
"A Lack of Color" by Death Cab for Cutie

Review: Island Affair

2011-12-14T19:36:00.001-05:00

Island Affair by Cait Miller

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this one. The guys are perfect for each other, and I got a bit teary-eyed.

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Review: Cop Out

2011-12-14T18:36:00.001-05:00

Cop Out by K.C. Burn

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this one and am looking forward other books by this author.

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Review: A Present in Swaddling Clothes

2011-12-14T18:15:00.001-05:00

A Present in Swaddling Clothes by Andrew Grey

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

2.5 stars probably. It was sweet, but I had some niggles. One of them was when they caled an ambulance for an adult who was having a breakdown but didn't bother to tell the dispatcher that the baby hadn't been breathing. That was necessary information. Obviously, two ambulances might bneeded. Only one will arrive if you don't tell th dipatcher everything.

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Review: Tooth and Claw

2011-12-12T22:57:00.001-05:00

Tooth and Claw by Annmarie McKenna

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I'm giving this three stars because it was humorous, and I enjoyed Seth and his wit. I do think Paxton went from "I hate vampires because one killed my boyfriend" to "Bite me, baby" a bit quickly.

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Review: Search Me

2011-12-12T22:28:00.001-05:00

Search Me by L.A. Witt

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Short, but emotional. A couple can't go through what these guys did without some struggles and doubts afterwards. I hope we get a book four in this series.

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Review: Bad Boyfriend

2011-12-12T22:15:00.001-05:00

Bad Boyfriend by K.A. Mitchell

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great tory. Qinn is a nice guy, and I want Eli t be my best friend. Peter doesn't deserve such a good famiy, and I'd smack him if I were his mom.

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Review: To Be Where You Are

2011-12-12T22:11:00.001-05:00

To Be Where You Are by K.Z. Snow

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I worried about how this would workout, but overall, I was satisfied with it.

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Review: InDescent

2011-12-12T22:08:00.001-05:00

InDescent by K.Z. Snow

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story. I enjoyed seeing Jackson work out his feelings for Adin.

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Review: Obsessed

2011-12-12T21:42:00.001-05:00

Obsessed by K.Z. Snow

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It's interesting to see how this love triangle is working out,especially since Celia is oky with Adin ging to visit Jackson.

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Review: Plagued

2011-12-12T21:38:00.001-05:00

Plagued by K.Z. Snow

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good m/f story. I realy like Adin and Jackson.

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Review: Cemetery Dancer

2011-12-12T21:32:00.001-05:00

Cemetery Dancer by K.Z. Snow

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good m/f paranormal. I can definitely say I won't be dancing naked in a cemetery anytime soon.

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Review: The Epic of Gilgamesh

2011-12-09T10:15:00.001-05:00

The Epic of Gilgamesh by Anonymous

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I reread this yesterday to see if I wuld like it better now that I am older. It was still okay. Interesting, but not riveting.

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I'm sorry

2011-12-07T22:59:00.001-05:00

I apologize for being so negative lately. I've lost some followers, and I assume that is why. If I have offended anyone in any way, I really am sorry.

Review: Breathless

2011-12-07T20:40:00.001-05:00

Breathless by Alex Morgan

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I like the "psionic" premise, and I might have given this one three stars if the plot had been more developed. Also, this one hit on two of my pet peeves. Not only does Corey chat on his partner of sex years, he also has unprotected sex with a stranger.

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Review: Peak and Thrust

2011-12-07T19:26:00.001-05:00

Peak and Thrust by Chloe Stowe

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I realy enjoyed the humorous aspects of this book, especially the interactions wth Alma. She reminds me of a lady I know.

I'd like to se Gunther's character introduced so that som ises can be resolved.

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Review: Divide & Conquer

2011-12-07T19:21:00.001-05:00

Divide & Conquer by Madeleine Urban

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thisis probably one of my favorite books in the series. I want th next book right now!

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Review: Love Ahead: Please Excuse Our Mess

2011-12-07T19:17:00.001-05:00

Love Ahead: Please Excuse Our Mess by Madeleine Urban

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

These two stories are sweet, easy reads. They were what I needed on this rainy day.

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UGH!!! Monday Sucked Big, Hairy, Sweaty, Donkey Balls

2011-12-05T20:51:00.001-05:00

Last week was bad. Today was a thousand times worse. In fact, today jumped up, bite me on the ass, and refused to let go.

If you follow this blog, you know I take Cymbalta. I have to take it. Just missing a few days causes slit-your-wrists/drive-off-a-bridge withdrawals. I am not exaggerating that. It's horrible not to have the medicine. I've tried others, and the Cymbalta is what works the best for me. I just have to be vigilant about taking it.

After work today, I went to the Walmart pharmacy, paid my $40 copay, put the Cymbalta in a bag with my other purchases, and then headed to Subway. I left the Walmart bags on the seat of my car while I was in Subway. I always lock my car. It has been a habit since college. I came out of Subway with my dinner and drove home. I carried my bags in. A while later, I took out my purchases to put them away. No Cymbalta. It isn't in my apartment. It isn't in my car. No one turned it in to Customer Service at Walmart. I know I put it in that bag. The only explanation that makes sense is that maybe I didn't lock my car door. Maybe someone took it. Whatever happened to it, I don't have it, and I have to have it.

Another month's supply costs over $160. The pharmacy told me to call the insurance company to see if they had some kind of hold they could put on it and to see if they had a policy about lost/stolen medication. Of course, it was 7:30 when all this was happening. The insurance company's office hours end at 6:00. So, now I have to wait all night to see if they can help me out. If not, I'm going to have to see if my doctor has any office samples. If that plan fails, I'll have to shell out $$$ for a refill. I am just sick about this and so pissed off at myself and at the person who took the meds. I just want to scream. UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!

There's Always Something

2011-12-04T20:47:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to be positive, but I think I am failing at it right now. This is going to be a venting post, so feel free to just ignore it. I am going to have a happy list at the end. I'm not going to allow myself to be 100% negative.

I had a flat tire yesterday. Of course, I'd never had to change a flat in this particular car, so when I took out the jack and the spare, I realized I didn't have a lug wrench. Called AAA. They said someone would be out in 30 minutes. Their 30 minutes equals almost 2 hours. I'd been planning on getting new tires anyway. It was time, and I wanted to do it before the roads start getting icy around here. So the flat was the impetus to stop procrastinating. Naturally, most of the tire places I called said they'd have to special order tires to fit my car. That sucked because I needed them yesterday. I can't drive back and forth to work on the interstate with that tiny spare. Every place I called told me each tire would be between $200 and $275! When I had my old car, I could get a whole set for $400! I was, of course, sick at spending that money. Finally, someone reminded me that Sears sells tires. They actually had what I needed at $699 for four. Yeah, that's still a lot, but it wasn't as bad as I was beginning to think it would be.

I've really screwed up my left shoulder. I have a bad feeling that it's going to wind up costing me a ton of money, too. I volunteer at a local food pantry, and I think I injured myself by lifting/carrying cases of canned food. Helping to lift one end of a gigantic freezer so we could get it up the steps probably didn't do anything to help it either.

I have truly failed at my diet lately. My doctor took me off my Adipex. Apparently, you can only take it for so long. Then, you have to stay off it for a while before you can take it again. That plus my hectic life has not helped me stick to the diet.

The state is trying to change the way it pays teachers, which means I'll have to go longer next summer without a paycheck. Since every time I turn around some unexpected expense pops up, I may have to look for a second job. I don't know where I'll find the time or energy, but I guess I'll do what I have to do.

I do this activity with my classes where I have the kids create a fact/concept wall. Sometimes I let them "visit" the wall during quizzes. Last week, we talked about characterization, plot, tone, and theme. I sections on the fact wall for the different works we'd read. The kids each had a sticky note on which they were supposed to write two facts, then they were supposed to put them in the appropriate places on the wall. One of my boys wrote "Romeo is a fag." Yeah. Really, he did. What a winner and what a way to ruin a good review activity. He wound up getting in-school suspension for three days, which I think was better than out-of-school. With in-school, he gets sequestered and gets a ton of work to do. With out-of-school, he gets a vacation where he can play video games all day. Of course, he did this in my class that has my sweet, little lesbian. I am so glad the admin who dealt with him took it seriously.

I've been crying at the drop of a hat recently. I'm sure you're thinking that's not unusual for me, but it has been worse. My TSH (thyroid stimulating hormones) shot up, and I'm going through a thyroid medication adjustment. I'm just all out of whack, and that makes me weepy. So far, I've managed to not cry at work. That's a good thing; although, it might make some of the more apathetic kids pay attention. They'd probably want to see what the crazy lady is going to do next.

Shallow Coach . . .

It's that time of year when the heating unit in my apartment will decided to break down. It always happens. It made a weird noise today, so I'm assuming it will be broken by the end of the week. I don't have time to deal with that. Since I have a certified attack cat who bites strangers, I'll have to take time off work to wait for a repairman. I know I should just move, but this is the safest of the cheapest apartments in the area, and moving is expensive.

I also feel bad for feeling bad. I know there are people who have much more serious problems than I do, so I should not let myself get so down. Even in this small community, we have a small tent city where the homeless folks are living. We don't have any shelters. Even if my heat does break, at least I won't be outside. At least I have food and running water.

Here's the happy list because I know I have been blessed more than many:

They may have been slow, but at least I have AAA.
My dad has recovered from the flu.
We provided food and clothing for 300 people at our food pantry over the past two weeks.
My attack cat loves me.
My friends and family
Roasted edamame
Cashews
Listening to my niece talk about her trip to Disney on Ice
Seeing things get better for some friends who have been struggling

Review: And So Is Love

2011-12-04T19:51:00.001-05:00

And So Is Love by Scarlet Blackwell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is definitely an angst-filled, emotional story. At first, I was not certain that I could like Dane, but I learned to love him. I think I forgave some of his actions a bit easierbecause he is in prison. His life isn't all sunshine and roses. The atmosphere of violence and intolerance would naturally affect his relationship with Bailey. Some of the events in the story are upsetting, but that is to be expected when the potagonists are inmates.

I am sure that if I worked in a prison some of the things that happen in the story would require more of a suspension of disbelief, but I honestly enjoyed the story with its tear-inducing and emotionally-charged, painful moments. This obviously isn't the book for some of my friends, but I'm glad I read it. This is a book that really needs a sequel.

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Review: Love Means... Healing

2011-12-04T15:28:00.001-05:00

Love Means... Healing by Andrew Grey

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It was nice seeing how Chris and Len got together. I almost wish I had waited to read this series so that I could read the books out of order since the author does not publish the stories chronologically.

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Review: Once Upon a Veterinarian

2011-12-04T15:22:00.001-05:00

Once Upon a Veterinarian by Drew Zachary

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A very sweet story. It's one of those books that's great for when you need sweet without angst.

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Review: Clark's Story

2011-12-03T18:26:00.001-05:00

Clark's Story by Diane Adams

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a sweet, tearjerker of a story. I still love all these characters, and I adore the children who were introduced.

It was also nice to see some progress made with one of the main conflicts of the story.

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Review: The Best Man

2011-12-03T18:21:00.001-05:00

The Best Man by L.A. Witt

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this one quite a bit. I couldn't believe the nerve of Craig, and I would love to smack him upside the head.

I do wonder if the danger really is removed from Liam and Jon's lives. I'd like to see a second book that deals with that.

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Review: A.J.'s Angel

2011-12-03T18:19:00.001-05:00

A.J.'s Angel by L.A. Witt

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a good story about a tattoo artist who is surprised when his ex shows up to get a tattoo. I think it was well-written, but I would have liked to see the characters spend more time working on their past issues and would have liked to have seen some glimpses of that year that they spent getting to know each other again. I think that if given more time with these characters, I would feel better about trusting Luke with Seb's heart.

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Review: Trust Me If You Dare

2011-12-01T21:23:00.001-05:00

Trust Me If You Dare by L.B. Gregg

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book and its quirky characters quite a bit. In fact, I liked it more than the first book in the series and would like to see a third book. I wish I had a family like Caesar's. :)

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Review: Catch Me If You Can

2011-12-01T21:21:00.001-05:00

Catch Me If You Can by L.B. Gregg

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I started reading this one soon after it was published. The quirkiness of it seemed like it would appeal to me. Who wouldn't love a book that features a Justin Timberlake bust made from watches? However, I just couldn't get into it the first time I tried reading it. This weekend, I decided I'd go back to it, and I did enjoy it.

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Review: The Little Death

2011-12-01T21:01:00.001-05:00

The Little Death by Andrea Speed

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an engaging story about a private investigator enmeshed in a confusing, dangerous case. I liked the fact that Jake was flawed and not perfect, and I'd like to see another story about him.

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Review: Dead of Night

2011-12-01T20:57:00.001-05:00

Dead of Night by Victor J. Banis

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First of all, you shouldn't begin this book expecting a romance because it isn't one. If you want a book that is well-written and emotionally engaging, then you might like this one.

I did enjoy it quite a bit. This author has never disappointed me. I do wish, however, that everything had been tied up in a neat, little bow at the end.

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I'm Home & Thanksgiving Reads

2011-11-27T21:00:00.000-05:00

I hope those of you who celebrate Thanksgiving had a fantastic one, and I hope those of you who live in places that don't celebrate this holiday had a fabulous weekend.

I just got back from the Land of No Internet this evening. I had a pretty good holiday. I was brave enough to take my mom shopping on Black Friday; however, I refused to be at any store before 8:00 AM. I was a day late getting home because my father came down with the flu. I wish I could have stayed longer to help, but my job just won't allow it. I am extremely thankful that I took the flu shot this year, though.

It's a bit late, but here's my list of things for which I am thankful:

Family
Friends, especially my online friends
A job I like
A reliable car
A friend just got something that I know will make his life much easier
A place to live
My cats
Books to read
Music

Thanksgiving Reads:

Full Circle by Lisa Marie Davis
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars

I liked this characters in this book a lot, and the premise was one that I found interesting. I just felt as if there were something missing. Maybe it was the speed at which things were resolved once the protagonists were reunited. I'm not sure.

What You Can't Live Without by Eden Winters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fantastic, free read. It has a humanitarian and a child, so of course I liked it. :)

View all my reviews Devotedly His by Shawn Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I can always count on Shawn Lane when I need a sweet story and characters who are genuinely likable.

Can't Be His by Shawn Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved this sweet story. My only complaint is that I like Roach and Alexi so much that I'd love to spend more time with them.

Hitting It Big by Shawn Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love reunion stories, and this was a good one. It isn't very long, but it's just right for when you need a feel-good story.

View all my reviews The Captain's Man by Scarlet Blackwell
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I'm giving this one two stars because I liked Erik and Freddie, the secondary characters. I liked Josh, the protagonist, but I just could not like Kane at all. I think he treated Josh pretty badly from the beginning, and his inconsistent behavior bothered me.

The Book Of Daniel by Z.A. Maxfield
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It was nice to see Daniel finally face some of his shortcomings. I adore Cam, of course. Who wouldn't like a guy who loves his cat? :)

The Distance Between Us by L.A. Witt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It took me a while, but I learned to like these characters. I have to admit that I yelled at Evan and Rhett on more than one occasion for not just talking to each other.

View all my reviews The Closer You Get by L.A. Witt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this one because Kieran is who he is. He's honest about it and unashamed. More people should be so forthcoming.

Ghosts and Flames by Kaje Harper
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In the beginning, there was a bit of an info. dump that made me think that perhaps I'd missed a previous book, but apparently, that wasn't the case. Once I got beyond that, I liked the story, but i think I would have enjoyed it more if it had been longer and more developed.

Life Over Limb by Stephani Hecht
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stephani Hecht has produced another sweet story. She's an autobuy for me because the stories always leave me feeling happy.

Bend by Bailey Bradford
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I was curious to see how things would work out for Annabelle, and I'm glad I read this one because it is a bridge to the next story. However, I'm not sure exactly why Annabelle, Justin, and Evan wound up together. It didn't feel like we could really see the relationship growing.

What Matters Most by Bailey Bradford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Josh is the kind of guy a person wants as a friend. It was fun watching this pink and penguin-loving guy go after the man he wants.

Private Dicks by Katie Allen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A friend recommended this book, and I really enjoyed it. It's humorous, and the guys are perfect for each other.

View all my reviews Hide Out by Katie Allen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can see why my buddy Chris has read this one several times. It's humorous and hot. I wish this series had a book number 3. Perhaps one for Carlos?

Abercrombie Zombie by K.Z. Snow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I tend to shy away from zombie books, but I picked this one up after I realized there isn't any zombie sex. Who wants to think about body parts falling off during intimate moments?

Anyway, I enjoyed this one and think it would make a great series.

View all my reviews Breaking The Silence by Katie Allen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a good m/f story with sweet and funny characters. It does turn a bit serious toward the end. It would be nice if the author would write a story for Christian.

Turquoise and Leather by Kim Dare
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I've had this one for ages, and I don't know why I put it off. It's a hot story, and I look forward to the rest of the series.

The Third Wish by K.F. Zuzulo
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

I really wanted to like this story, and I would give it another try if it were expanded. I felt like there were gaps in the plot. It seemed like we should have had more time with the protagonists together.

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My Weekend Thoughts & Recent Reads

2011-11-20T16:31:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone has had a good weekend. Mine has been a mixed bag, but it has been more good than not.

Friday, I went to the oncologist. My red blood cells are looking a bit better, but the improvement is slow. We still don't know why I've developed this chronic anemia, and I'll be going back to this doctor in three months for more tests.

Yesterday, I volunteered in the morning and went to the gym in the afternoon. It was a pretty good day.

I see a lot of kids each day, obviously. I've noticed quite a few who don't appear to have warm coats or clothing for colder weather. I know a lot of my friends donate their clothing to charity, but people don't realize that often these kids' families can't even afford Goodwill prices. If you have any warm clothing that you're not going to wear, please consider calling a local school to see if they know of anyone who can use it. If the receptionist can't help you, ask for a guidance counselor. A lot of schools in my area have clothing closets where they stock used closed for kids who can't afford them. If you think you're clothes are too large because you're an adult, remember, high school kids need warm clothes too. If you don't feel like you can call a school, maybe there's a local shelter or youth program that would appreciate the donations.

Today, I've had an attack of the blahs. I don't know why. They just hit me. It took me forever to get out of bed this morning, but I finally forced myself to go to the gym for a while because I thought that would make me feel better. Endorphins, etc.

I've spent a good part of my day reading and semi-watching the various incarnations of Law & Order.

I'm pretty sure that there is something that I just HAVE to get done before my first class tomorrow, but for the life of me, I cannot remember what it is.

Some people have been mean to a few of my friends lately. I don't like that one bit. I even offered to smack somebody for one person, but since that somebody was a coward and posted his/her mean comments anonymously, there was no one I could smack down virtually. I just don't understand cruelty. If you disagree with someone, you can say your piece, but there's no need to be mean. If you just don't like reading someone's blog, then don't read it. If someone used to be your friend and the friendship fell apart, let it go. Stop doing passive-aggressive crap to get the person's attention, especially when you were the person who lied in the first place. There's no point in going back and pulling the bandage off the wounds. Let them heal.

I used to have an offline friend who also worked with me. He was the kind of person who told me everything people said about me. Maybe he thought he was being a good friend. I know some folks who see it as their duty to tell their friends when they hear something negative about them, but honestly, if someone doesn't think I have good taste in shoes or hates the sound of my voice, I don't need to know. That kind of pettiness just adds more stress to my life because I genuinely want to please people and to have them like me. Now, if someone is saying things that will hurt my reputation/career and is telling blatant lies about me, I do want to know that. Tom, my former friend, just had to tell me everything, though. I finally had to separate myself from him completely because it got to the point where I wondered if he actually enjoyed trying to add drama to my life. I know there are people who are like that, and it makes me sad that adults act that way. I understand when kids do it. It's immature, and they have a lot to learn. I don't understand why adults can't act like adults.

Do any of you, assuming anyone read this far, have your Christmas shopping done or started? I am so bad at picking gifts. I almost always put it off to the last minute.

Recent Reads:

Galen and the Forest Lord by Eden Winters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was cute and funny. I'd love to see a sequel so that I could see how Galen adjusts to being the Alpha's mate and to raising a cub.

Gambling On Love by Jane Davitt
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I like this author's books, but this was definitely my least favorite of them. The reunion premise was one I enjoy, but I'm not sure that I trust that Abe and Gary will be happy together. It seemed like things worked out for them too quickly and the end was abrupt. I wouldn't mind seeing a sequel where we could really see them adjusting to life together.

Incoming Freshman by Carol Lynne
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this series and was happy to get to revisit it with a new addition. I had a few niggles, such as Bobby's dad being called Martin, Earl, and Bob. I guess that was an editing issue. Despite the inconsistency, it was a quick, sweet read. I look forward to more in the series.

Talker's Graduation by Amy Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love that one of my favorite couple's get their happy ending. I do hope that Amy Lane can be convinced to revisit Brian and Talker every now and then.

By The Numbers by Chris Owen & Tory Temple
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

If you want a sweet story that doesn't have ton of angst, then you'll probably enjoy this one. It also has a cute kids and puppies. Who wouldn't like that?

Just What the Truth Is by Cardeno C.
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this one, but I kept yelling "Tell him!" at Ben. Finally, he listened.

It was nice to see Ben's relationship with his brother grow.

Roots and Wings by D.W. Marchwell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a nice third book in the series. At one point, I asked myself just how many horrible things could happen to this family, but everything was resolved in the end.

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Lists, Lists, Lists

2011-11-17T20:17:00.001-05:00

I'm sure you've noticed that my thoughts tend to jump around lately. I'm just not in the mood to try to organize them into logically flowing posts, so I guess I'll just keep going with my bulleted lists of randomness that I've taken to posting. :)

I didn't get to go to the gym much last week, but I've done well with it this week.

I had to send a student to the office yesterday. I hate when that happens. He would not listen to reason, and he refused to do his work. I can't neglect the 30 other students in the room when one is being disruptive and rude. I rarely send kids to the office, but I kind of feel like a failure every time i have to do that. I went almost two whole years once without having to write up a kid from my own classes. I wish it could be that way again.

I kind of dread Thanksgiving and all the temptation that comes with it. I am looking forward to some days away from work, though.

It was 74 degrees here on Monday. It was 44 degrees today. I really wish the weather would make up its mind and be consistent so that I'd know what to wear every day.

I'm not sure how I feel about Bones this season. I don't know if I like the idea of Booth and Brennan having a baby, etc. right now.

I wasn't thrilled with this week's Glee.

I was looking in my closet this morning and realized that over the past two months I've managed to acquire three long, denim skirts. If this keeps up, I'll have the perfect wardrobe for joining a cult.

Happy List:

my new iPod (The old one went to iPod Heaven.)
I had a long conversation with one of my favorite, former students today. I adore that kid, and I'm so proud of him for wanting to be an English teacher.
Cars with working heaters
Crystal Light
Friends who email or text out of the blue when I'm beginning to feel alone
I took a nap after work today. Naps are awesome. I've scheduled another one for Saturday.
Actually wanting to read again
I finally got my work email synced to my phone.
I've probably said this before, but I <3 Sheldon Cooper

This week's playlist, which is just as random as my thoughts:

"If I Had You" Adam Lambert
"Not the Kid" Communist Daughter
"5,6,7,8" Steps

"I Hear Them All" Old Crow Medicine Show
"In the Aeroplane Over the Sea" Neutral Milk Hotel
"Welcome to Your Wedding Day" The Airborne Toxic Event

"The Blues Are Still Blue" Belle and Sebastian
"Down by the Water" The Decemberists

"Puttin' on the Ritz" Rufus Wainwright
"I Kissed a Girl" Ivri Lider

Clear Water

2011-11-16T22:16:00.001-05:00

Clear Water by Amy Lane

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book. The characters, especially Patrick, were endearing. I wanted to smack Patrick's dad, but I even liked him by the end.

Frogs rock, by the way!

View all my reviews

It's Tuesday & Recent Reads

2011-11-15T20:29:00.001-05:00

I've survived two days this week! Yesterday was actually pretty good. I walked four miles after school and managed to grade a ton of papers. I couldn't sleep last night, though. I probably got about two hours of sleep.

Today, I felt kind of pukey all day. I decided to try to go to the gym anyway. I managed to make it two miles before I had to give up. I am proud of myself for making it that far.

There's this beautiful guy at the gym. Actually, there are a few gorgeous guys, but this particular one has the most beautiful hair. I really want to ask him what conditioner he uses.

When I got home from the gym today, the noises started. I know it's just because I'm tired, etc., but when I'm tired, my anxiety can get out of hand. I've spent the last little while trying to figure out if these noises are regular ones that I normally just don't notice or if they're indicative of some impending household disaster. Grr. I hate when I start obsessing like this.

I have an oncologist appointment on Friday to see if my white count and platelets are headed down toward normal levels. Hopefully, my red blood cells will be larger.

I love this:

I embarrassed a student today when I confiscated a note she was writing. I didn't read it in front of the class or anything like that. I just took it and put it on my desk. She turned bright red, and she seemed nervous for the rest of class. From her reaction, I assumed it was going to be either sexually explicit or about her mean, old English teacher. After class, I glanced at it. It was actually a rather sweet note to her girlfriend. I usually save notes as evidence that students haven't been paying attention. I also have to give notes to the counselors if they indicate the student is in danger. I just tossed this one. I don't know if she's out to her parents, but I'm not going to be the person who outs her if she isn't. Tomorrow, I'm going to have to somehow let her know that she doesn't have to worry about what I might think or do. Yeah, I don't like her writing notes in class, but the intended recipient of that note is nobody's business but hers.

I love this, too:

Recent Reads:

It's Not Shakespeare by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this one, and it made me laugh out loud a couple of times. I just think the characters are sweet and perfect for each other, and I adore Marlowe! I'm a sucker for spoiled dogs.

Unacceptable Risk by Kaje Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I liked this one quite a bit. I especially enjoyed the way Simon tried to make sure that Paul took care of himself.

I think some of my friends will like this one, but part of Paul's job as a veterinarian is to euthanize animals. It bothers him, of course, and those scenes can be difficult for some people to read. I know I shed a tear or two.

In His Hero's Shadow by Stephani Hecht
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a sweet story. When two guys annoy each other this much, they have to be perfect for each other.

Life Lessons by Kaje Harper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I often avoid "teacher" books because the teacher in me usually winds up thinking "that wouldn't happen" or "no teacher/parent/principal would do that!" I'm glad that I gave this book a chance. Tony and Mac are great, and I adore Anna and Ben.

This one doesn't end with a neatly settled relationship, but I was okay with this since I
already had the sequel.

Breaking Cover by Kaje Harper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think I enjoyed this sequel even more than the first book. My only niggle came with a major incident that I think Mac and Tony should have anticipated. I'd love to see a book number 3.

View all my reviews

Thoughts & Visiting the Family

2011-11-11T06:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Veteran's Day, folks!

I'm taking this three-day weekend to go to the Land of No Internet and Cell Phones. I haven't been there since August, and I'm looking forward to it. My niece will be there, and I need to spend some time with her.

I almost strangled Shallow Coach at work this week. He has gotten it into his head that Mrs. Awesome and I are miserable because we work so hard. Apparently, we spend too much time creating activities and grading papers. I thought that was my job. Plus, I have to create activities. My students can't get what they need from worksheets printed off the internet or that come from the textbook. Worksheets are necessary sometimes, but when they are, I make my own. Students need a variety of ways to learn. Also, I'd be bored to death if I did things the same way every semester and every year. Awesome is the same way. Each group of kids is different, so our lessons have to be changed to fit them. I swear SC is so cocky! I don't know how he stands himself.

I haven't lost any weight lately, but I haven't gained any either. I have a doctor's appointment in two weeks. I hope to lose more by then. I'm already going to get a talking to when she sees some of the things I've eaten lately.

That's all I have now. Despite SC, it has been a pretty good week. I hope you all have a great weekend.

Bear, Otter, and the Kid

2011-11-10T20:21:00.001-05:00

Bear, Otter, and the Kid by T.J. Klune

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I stayed up way too late one night to finish this book, and obviously, I enjoyed it. Of course, it has a kid. I adore kids in books.

Otter is a great guy, and he's definitely perfect for Bear. The author did a good job with Bear's internal conflict. Tyson, known as the Kid, doesn't sound like a typical nine-year-old, but I can forgive this since the author makes sure to let us know that he is very atypical.

I also see this as a great statement about families we choose. Sometimes our genetic families aren't there for us, but those families that we choose can be even more loving and supportive.

I would have given it five stars, but there was a niggle. As my buddy Shell said in her review, the repeated use of the word "retarded" is off-putting. When people use that word lightly, they are demeaning and devaluing the lives of some fantastic people.

This book has lots of similarities to the movie Shelter, which is a fantastic movie. If you enjoyed the premise of that movie, I think you'll really enjoy this book.

View all my reviews

More Random Thoughts and a Book

2011-11-06T20:06:00.000-05:00

I have a lot bouncing around in my head again.

Yesterday with Lucy went well. We went shopping, had lunch, shopped some more, and made dinner. It was awkward at first, but it got better. I'm still don't trust her not to revert to her old ways, but yesterday was a positive experience.

I work in a very loud environment. Hundreds of teens cannot be quiet. When I am home from work, I hate loud noises. Despise them. However, total silence other than when I wear earplugs also drives me nuts. Why? I hear little noises, and they make me worry. I'm pretty sure I've written about this before. That's why my television or iPod is always going, even in the middle of the night. Today, my upstairs neighbors did laundry early in the morning. Then, they left. Not long after leaving, I started hearing a drip from their laundry room. I could hear it in every room of my house, and it made me crazy! It's still dripping, and I have had earplugs in all day to escape it. I hope they come back soon because I cannot sleep with the earplugs. I'm afraid I won't hear my alarm clock. I won't be able to sleep with that drip either.

The movie based on John Sandford's Certain Prey premiers on USA tonight. I love that series, and I love Mark Harmon. However, Harmon doesn't look like the Lucas Davenport that I envision when I read those books.

I did not climb back on the wagon yesterday. Tomorrow morning, it's back to protein shakes, etc.

Stephani Hecht and other authors are starting the Safe Reading Zone Campaign. Their websites will have buttons letting GLBT youth who come across their sites know that they are in a place of acceptance and that the people who own the sites will welcome their emails if they feel left out, in need of support, or just need someone to listen. I think this is a fabulous idea. I've worked with a lot of kids, and sadly, many of them need an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on for different reasons, and they are not always able or willing to open up to the people around them.

Things I get:

I get having a pseudonym. I have one online. Privacy is important, not to mention the fact that online activities can affect jobs. I have a moral turpitude clause in my contract. It's a very broad clause, and it terrifies me.

I get authors who write under pseudonyms that express different genders. I know that male writers of heterosexual romance have done this for years.

I get authors who have different pseudonyms for different genres.

I get that a person's inner self might not match his/her DNA. Some people are born in the wrong bodies. I don't know what that must feel like, but I sympathize.

I get that some people won't agree with me. If you don't agree with me, but you are my friend, I'll love you anyway. Heck, I love my friend D., and she's a Republican. ;)

I get why people love Christmas. It stresses me out, but I like it.

I get that some people are probably board with this post by now.

Things I don't get:

I don't get creating elaborate, fictional lives for your pseudonym. Seriously, I don't care if the bio in your book says that you grew up running naked in the rain forest, but leave it alone after the bio. Don't continue adding to the ruse. For goodness' sake, don't create a fake romance with another author, etc. If you need to use a pseudonym to protect yourself and your job, go for it, but stop at that. Don't create a giant house of cards that will crumple around you.

I don't get people who threaten and/or passive-aggressively threaten others via email, especially when those people know that nothing but the truth has been said.

I don't get why people start playing Christmas music on November 1. Let's make it through Thanksgiving first folks.

I don't get people who enjoy being mean or hurting others.

I don't get people who can turn their backs on their own children. God gave you that child, and you should cherish that gift.

I don't get why people watch golf.

I don't get why my students ask me some of the things they do. I was walking around the room helping students with their assignments. As I went by Billy's desk, this is what happened:

Billy: Miss, can I ask you a question.
Me: Is it about the grammar?
Billy: No.
Me: Will it make me mad? (Billy is the kind of kid that is just difficult to be around some days.)
Billy: Umm . . .
Me: If you have to think about it, it probably will.
Billy: I, umm, just want to know if male strippers and female strippers work in the same place.
Me: (In my head I'm thinking "WTH?") I don't have any experiences with that kind of thing, but I'd think the answer is no because for the most part, they'd have two different audiences. (I figured answering him would make him drop the issue; fussing at him would make him continue.)
Billy: (looking perplexed) Umm, for the most part?
Sarah, who is in the next row and can hear us: (I love this girl. She isn't book smart, she's rough around the edges, but she tries.) They don't work in the same place. I know cause my mom was one.

Today's book:

What Remains by Bailey Bradford
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I love the characters in this series, but this book just didn't thrill me. I just didn't enjoy it as much. I have a pretty high tolerance for kink, but there was one sex scene that just sent my ick-o-meter over the top.

I did like the introduction of Alma, Rogelio, and the rest of the family. I hope to see them again.

View all my reviews

Random Thoughts, Happy List, & Recent Reads

2011-11-04T21:46:00.002-04:00

Okay, I have a lot of things jumping around in my head right now. Some are good; others are bad. I've had the day from hell, and I'm not finding it east to be positive at the moment. I'm just going to list my thoughts here. I need to get somethings out, and I can't actually talk to anyone in my offline life about this stuff.

This isn't about me, but it's something that is bothering me. I don't care how pissed off you get at a person, their kids are off limits. It doesn't matter if their kids are 8, 18, or 38, you leave them out of it. Don't talk about them. Don't talk to them. That's just vile. Leave them alone.

Another one that isn't about me: If you've behaved like an asshat and everyone knows it, don't go around saying mean things about someone who could have vilified you a hundred times over but who had the class to keep her mouth shut.

Apparently, I've pissed some people off. I don't know how. Maybe I haven't been as supportive by emailing, commenting, etc. lately. I don't know. If I've offended anyone, I'm sorry. I honestly don't know what I did to make you kick me off your friend list, and I hate that you don't want to know me any more. I thought we were close.

Subway: This one isn't about me either. The subway I frequent has a new employees. He's been there two weeks, and he reminds me of some of my exceptional students. It takes him a few seconds longer to put a sandwich together. He doesn't seem very sure of himself, and he always takes a few seconds to glance at the specific sandwich instructions on the counter when someone orders. I want to say this to some of the other customers - - Don't roll your eyes at him. Those few seconds aren't killing you. I appreciate that he's checking to make sure he does everything just right. I'd rather have someone like him who wants to get things correct than who doesn't care whether or not my sandwich is actually what I ordered. Don't huff while you're standing in line. Simply appreciate the fact that he cares about doing a good job.

I got a new neighbor this week. I'm pretty sure he's a drug dealer or engaged in some other nefarious enterprise. People who can afford cars like his don't live in this neighborhood.

Work sucked big, hairy donkey balls this week. I got chewed out by the principal for doing my job and reporting safety issues that included students shoving me and another teacher, as well as a student raising his fist to punch a female teacher in the face. So sorry for trying to keep my students and coworkers safe.

I fell off the wagon yesterday and today. I was so frustrated and upset both days. When I get that way, I find myself eating. Deep down, I know that only makes me even more frustrated with myself afterwards, but that thought is the farthest thing from my mind when I get that way. I hate it that I sabotage myself, and I don't like myself very much when that happens.

Lucy has asked me to go shopping with her tomorrow. This will be the first time I've seen her since I confronted her. I'm happy to be seeing her, but I don't trust her enough to be confident that she won't cancel or ditch me.

I saw a girl named Duvet on Say Yes to the Dress. Her mom actually said that she and her husband named her after a comforter so that she would be a comfort to them. Seriously folks, don't don't that stuff to your kids.

I saw a sign advertising pumpkin bagels with cinnamon butter. It has taken all my willpower to keep from stopping at that bakery.

I hope everyone has a good weekend.

I've been negative, so I should balance that with a happy list:

My heating pad
People who are willing to stand up for their friends
I saw a student do a really sweet thing for another student today. It was something most people wouldn't have bothered to do.
Glee came back on this week.
Honey mustard

Quick to the Hunt

2011-10-31T16:59:00.001-04:00

Quick to the Hunt by Cameron Dane

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I do love angsty stories, and this one is definitely that. Some people might find Hunter's ordeal with PTSD and self-harm to be uncomfortable for them to read, but I'm glad I stuck with it.

View all my reviews

Miles To Go

2011-10-31T16:56:00.001-04:00

Miles To Go by Bailey Bradford

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found Max endearing, and I'm glad that I decided to give this book a chance.

View all my reviews

Another Happy List

2011-10-30T19:06:00.000-04:00

It has been a busy weekend. I've been to the gym, graded papers, and gone to see my nephew's marching band perform. The latter was fantastic, but the wind made it so cold! Yes, I have a bit of windburn on my face, but seeing my nephew was worth it.

I don't have much to say, but I am going to post a short happy list.

1. My awesome nephew and his marching band

2. I bought a pair of jeans last week. I really shouldn't have since I don't get to wear them to work, but I needed a new pair. They were FIVE sizes smaller than the jeans I was wearing in April. Yay me!

3. I may be getting my reading mojo back. I finally added the books I read at the end of August to Goodreads and this blog; plus, I actually finished reading a book yesterday! I don't really have time to read, but I can read a bit while I'm on the treadmill.

4. Electric blankets and cool bedrooms I don't like weather that drops below freezing, but I love a cool/cold bedroom and being toasty under the covers.

The book I read:

Discovered by J.P. Barnaby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I haven't had time nor the inclination to read for the past couple of months, but when I realized this book was out, I had to get it. I love Brian and Jamie, and this installment made me both smile and cry. I'm also falling for Alex, Mike, and the other guys. I can't wait for the next book.

Thanks, J.P. Barnaby, for helping me get my reading mojo back.

View all my reviews

Rainbow Road

2011-10-28T17:31:00.001-04:00

Rainbow Road by Alex Sanchez

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a good end to the series, but I was left worrying a bit about one of the boys.

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Rainbow High

2011-10-28T17:30:00.001-04:00

Rainbow High by Alex Sanchez

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love these characters and was thrilled to spend more time with them.

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My Zombie Ex-Boyfriend

2011-10-28T17:28:00.001-04:00

My Zombie Ex-Boyfriend by Cora Zane

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

It was okay, but I would have liked more development.

View all my reviews

Jungle Heat

2011-10-28T17:27:00.003-04:00

Jungle Heat by Rachel Haimowitz

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This one just wasn't my cup of tea, but I know others who would enjoy it.

View all my reviews

Lies and Consequences

2011-10-28T17:25:00.001-04:00

Lies and Consequences by Kaje Harper

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first book by Kaje Harper, and I need to find more. When I read this one a couple of months ago, I read it straight through and enjoyed it quite a bit.

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Lions and Tigers and Snares

2011-10-28T17:22:00.001-04:00

Lions and Tigers and Snares by Vincent Diamond

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is another August read. Can you tell I'm behind?

This was enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to reading more by Diamond.

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Just Desserts

2011-10-28T17:20:00.001-04:00

Just Desserts by Scarlet Blackwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I read this in August, and I liked it. I need to read the sequel.

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Knock Out

2011-10-27T20:29:00.001-04:00

Knock Out by Catherine Coulter

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I've been off reading for a while now. I read this one while on the treadmill, and I have to say that it was just okay. I liked the cult story line, but other parts were just too repetitive. Really, how many times can the bad guys get away in a book?

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What can I say?

2011-10-26T21:02:00.002-04:00

I'm sitting here wondering what to say. I just don't know if I have anything that people want to hear. A friend of mine says I need to go to the doctor about this sleep issue. I suppose I do, but I have an appointment later in November. I don't want to go before then because I'll still have to keep the other appointment, and my insurance company has raised the copays on everything. That, plus the hidden pay cuts they hit us with and the fact that I will have to go two extra weeks this summer without a paycheck is making me watch and worry about money more than I normally do. *sigh* I sigh a lot lately.

Sweet Ivan posted a happy list this week, and I think I need to do that too.

Here it is:

My flu shot didn't make me sick. See Leo, you were wrong. :P
I get to see my nephew's band competition in a few days.
Most of my students are enjoying Romeo and Juliet.
pumpkin muffins - I was bad and ate one, but it was worth it!
My fabulous online friends
Sunday, I got to have dinner with my parents. I hadn't seen them since August.
Parent conferences that go well
sugar-free cinnamon Werther's caramels

What's more shocking?

2011-10-25T21:25:00.000-04:00

Friendship, Scary Men, Tampons, Penises, and Bull Tits

2011-10-24T20:26:00.003-04:00

I'm a bad friend:

I have been a bad friend, I know. I don't mean to be, really, but I've kind of closed myself in lately. I should be commenting on everyone's blogs. I've been reading them. Words still seem to fail me, and I don't seem to be able to express myself well. I hope I can get it together soon.

I've mentioned how tired I am, and it just doesn't seem to get better. Every day, there's a new fire to put out at work. This curriculum transition is tough, and all these meetings are taking up time when I should be grading. I'm swamped with paperwork and grading. *sigh*

Scary men:

This afternoon, I was in my bedroom when I heard two men talking underneath my window. Two strangers were standing there drinking beer and arguing because one of them had not done a good job as a lookout when they broke into something. Yes, I was terrified. I called the police. When they got here, the two were gone, but they had left behind a beer can. Nothing else seemed to be disturbed, but I'm going to be wary when going outside for a while.

Tampons:

I've said before that I have some really good students this semester. I also have some really immature ones. I actually had to call a mother the other day and tell her that her son has been extremely disruptive and that he also put an open tampon on another male student's desk. She assured me she would deal with him and that the tampon did not come from her house. TMI. I should not have to call a fourteen-year-old boy's mom and talk to her about tampons. *sigh*

Penises:

I also had to call a father because his son was drawing pictures of penises and passing them around class. Really. He's lucky he didn't get suspended because it could have been viewed as a sexual harassment issue since some of the students who received the peens were female. Once again, I shouldn't have to call parents about crap like that. I'm also worried about the kid. The pictures were kind of deformed. If they were supposed to be representative of him, I think he has a tumor.

Bull tits:

The icing on the cake was when I called a girl's mom because the student is not trying in class. She is a smart girl. She can do the work, but she refuses to study or participate. The mother told me her daughter was "bitchy" and that she'd been dealing with this for years. She also said that she is done dealing with it and that it's my problem now. Then she went on to tell me that there would be no point in talking to the girl's father because he is as "useless as tits on a damn bull." Yeah, she really said that. It always saddens me and angers me when a parent checks out so soon. The kid is fourteen, and her mom has given up.

I also marvel at the language that mother used when talking to me. She cursed constantly. I grew up in a house where cursing was not tolerated. I'm a bit more liberal in my views on that now, but still, there's a time and a place for everything. I would expect people to be more careful with their language when talking to someone like their children's teachers. They way a person talks in private or with her friends isn't always appropriate when talking to people she doesn't know, etc.

Let me just say here that I despise the word "tits." It's one of my pet peeves. I have always hated it, and I have cringed every time I typed it in this post.

Back to being a bad friend:

So, life right now is one big *sigh*. I apologize for not being around, but I'm not that upbeat, fun, or interesting right now. Heck, I don't like being around myself, so I doubt anyone else would want to be around me either.

Poison & Wine

2011-10-22T21:21:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't posted in a while. I am so tired most days, and I just can't think of anything interesting to say. Since I'm at a loss for words, here's one of my favorite songs:

I think I sprained my eyes . . .

2011-10-11T19:00:00.000-04:00

Can you sprain your eyes? I may have sprained mine by rolling them too often over the past week or so.

In class, we've been having problems with helping verbs. Somewhere along the way, my students missed the lessons about using "have gone" instead of "have went," etc. This oversight has caught up with them in my class because I want them to write sentences that make sense.

Yesterday's verb lesson:

Me: What should that say?
Billy: Have taken?
Me: Exactly. You can't say "have took."
Sally: When do you use "tooken"?
Me: Never. It isn't a word.
Sally: Yes it is.
Me: No. You can take something. You will take something. You have taken something, and you took something. "Tooken" isn't a word.
Sally: I think it is.
That's when I handed Sally a grammar book. *rolls eyes*

I have a student who constantly eats paper. Yeah. Really. *rolls eyes*

One student walked up to me in class during a transition from group work to whole class discussion and actually asked, "Miss, can I go in the hall to fix my wedgie?" Really. My response was "I can't believe you just asked that."

Johnny and Molly's note:

During one class last week, I noticed that Johnny and Molly were passing a piece of paper back and forth. Obviously, they were having some sort of discussion in note form rather than paying attention to our vocabulary discussion. Would a good teacher march over to them immediately and take the note? Sure. Did I do that? Nope. I did what a better, sneakier teacher would do . . . let the written dialogue go on for a while. Heck, if I'm going to have to deal with note writers, I may as well let it go long enough so that I get something juicy to read. Apparently, Molly and Johnny are possibly, maybe, kind of dating but not really. *rolls eyes*

The best part of the note was in Johnny's handwriting: "This class sucks dick." Did that make me mad or hurt my feelings? No. They can't all love me or English. I did have to bite my tongue and bite it hard because it was so hard for me to keep myself from saying "This class sucks dick? Wow! I didn't know it was that awesome! Thanks!" Because I am the adult in the room, I just gave them the evil teacher stare. Later, we had a private chat about participation points, recent poor test grades, their new seats in class, and the fact that their mamas might not appreciate the language they used in those notes if I had to call home and read it to them. *rolls eyes*

I have also confiscated Johnny's cellphone three times in class. He's currently failing English because he isn't paying attention. When I called his mom to ask her to help with the texting issue (apparently keeping the phone for three days at a time isn't deterring him once he gets it back), she wanted to come see the tests he's failing. Fine. I set up a conference. I could not get her to grasp that he would be passing if he paid attention in class and studied at home, even after she admitted he doesn't study. Apparently, she doesn't want to place any blame on him. My classwork must just be too hard. *rolls eyes and bangs head on desk*

Lesson #6: Possibilities

2011-10-02T21:17:00.000-04:00

I am going to be optimistic about this week if it kills me.

Goodbye, September!

2011-09-30T22:23:00.000-04:00

Well, the week is over. Thank goodness! I'm looking forward to a weekend of going to the gym, grading papers, and hiding in my apartment.

The Awesome:

Kris, the Queen of the Effing Universe, had a birthday. I'm sure you all celebrated. She is our royal leader after all.

My dear friends Ivan and Milo are setting out on a new adventure. I have a really good feeling about this and am sending good thoughts their way. I also have this image of them organizing their new kitchen. Ivan puts things away willy-nilly, and a growly Milo comes in and well, growls. Of course, the growl is adorable. In my mind, they look like George Clooney (Milo) and Adam Lambert (Ivan). ;)

None of my students got arrested. Really, that falls under awesome.

One of my favorite former students is applying to my alma mater. It's the perfect place for him--liberal arts college and very open-minded. He wants to be an English teacher. :)

Today was payday.

I had Subway for dinner last night. Subway is awesome.

Glee! After this week's episode, I've decided that I and my friends are all unicorns. Mrs. Awesome and I have even taken to labeling people at work as unicorns or not unicorns. Really, who wouldn't want to be a unicorn?

"You know what they call a unicorn without a horn? A freakin' horse." ~ Burt Hummel

Sweet Chris introduced me to Cloud Cult a while back. This song makes me all warm and happy:

The Pretty Good:

I only had two kids scream at me--a boy and a girl. They were the ones who wound up crying, though. I think their parents back down to that behavior. I won't. The issues: I took the girl's cell phone. She was texting during class. I gave the boy a seat on the front row because he kept trying to talk to the people around him, and he was annoying them. I know you're wondering why I put this under "Pretty Good," but I managed to handle both situations without having to send them to a principal. That means that it was resolved to my satisfaction, and the kids aren't going to wind up being suspended. They need to be in class. What was really good is that the rest of the kids in the girl's class were not happy with her behavior toward me. It's nice to see kids stick up for their teacher.

Since August 29, I have walked 64.52 miles. I'm walking farther and faster every week.

Lucy has been contacting me by phone and text. I didn't and don't initiate contact, but I do answer her. I'm not blindly and quickly jumping back in, but it has been nice talking to her.

I went to Walmart and did not see the nipple woman. She's usually there when I go, and the first time I saw her, her strappy tank top had gotten pulled down so far that we could all see her nipples. Plus, she has a toddler who walks barefoot through Walmart. He's poor little feet are always black with dirt! Why doesn't she put him in a cart? One day, I watched her hand him a box of Mike and Ike's. He is too little to hold the box and pour the candy into his hand, so he shook a few pieces onto the floor. Then, he picked them up and ate them. The mom watched and didn't stop him!

Shallow Coach had a substitute yesterday. It was an idiot-free lunch for me.

My cat is currently having a cat fit. That's when she runs through the apartment and bounces off the walls for no reason. It's annoying in the middle of the night. Right now, it's pretty entertaining.

The Not-So-Good:

I fell off the wagon in terms of my diet a few times over the past two weeks. I didn't gain weight, but I didn't lose any either. The reason for this will come later under "The Awful."

I've been sucking lately when it comes to commenting on everyone's blogs. I adore you all, and I read everything. I am just so mentally and physically exhausted some evenings that I can't put together coherent comments. I enjoy the gym, but this chronic anemia is still kicking my butt. I leave work each day, come home and take a short nap, go to the gym and walk anywhere from 2.5 to 4.5 miles, and then come home to grade papers. This is after grading papers during every spare moment at work, including lunch. Classes are 90 minutes long. I have over 90 students. I have tons of paperwork every day. Someone asked me today why I take the nap if it means I have to stay up later to grade or go to the gym. Honestly, without those short naps, I can't physically or mentally function long enough to get the other stuff done.

Today has been a weepy day. I'm trying to fight it. I think a lot of that is because I'm tired, the rest of the reason follows.

The Awful:

Maybe I shouldn't label this as "The Awful." It's not the end of the world, but it has been hard to deal with. Last week, my doctor referred me to another doctor for a procedure that would end quite a bit of pain that I experience every day. Also, this surgery would help me emotionally, I think. My doctor has documented my need for it for quite a while, and my insurance should pay for quite a bit of it. Well, she referred me to a local surgeon who is supposed to be one of the best in the area, and my consultation was set up for next week. I had to call and cancel it today after waiting for such a long time to get the appointment. Why? Because I talked to the surgeon's office, and I found out that they won't file the insurance claim for the procedure. They do file for some procedures, but they won't for the one I need. Yes, I can file it myself, but the doctor wants almost $6000 upfront. My regular doctor and I wanted to schedule the surgery for June or July 2012. That would give me enough recovery time before school starts that I wouldn't have to miss any work. Well, I'm a teacher. I don't have $6000. I only get paid 10 months out of the year, so I have to save all year just to make it through the summer anyway. There is no way that I can save $6000 dollars on top of what I already have to squirrel away. I thought about getting another job, but there aren't many jobs open. Also, I don't know if I can handle any more hours health-wise. I've called other surgeons in the area, but so far, I haven't had much luck. I'm going to have to look at other North Carolina cities, and I am beginning to lose hope. I think that's why I fell off the wagon. I had some moments of "Why the hell do I even try?" I'm trying not to have a pity party over this, but it has been hard.

I apologize for ending on an unhappy note. I am proud of myself, though, for being able to point out more positive than negative this week.