My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.
Life.
Wishing a Happy Father’s Day to all the dads in our lives! Here at home, my husband was treated to a barbecue that he didn’t have to cook himself! Our (adult) boys planned and prepared a yummy dinner. I graciously offered to do the dishes.
I wish I’d been able to see my own father in person, but since we’re on opposite coasts, I had to settle for a FaceTime visit.
Meanwhile, I don’t know why, but once again it’s been a slow reading week. I feel like I’m always falling behind!
What did I read during the last week?
Rabbits by Terry Miles: Such a strange book. Great cover, though — right? My review is here.
The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison: I finished my audiobook re-read! I love this book so much, and listening to the audiobook is an amazing experience. There’s something so magical about hearing all the names and places and strange concepts spoken aloud. Highly recommended!
Pop culture & TV:
My first post-COVID movie theater outing! I went to see In the Heights — loved the movie, but it took a bit for it not to feel strange to be sitting in a theater with other people. (And I kind of missed the watching-from-my-couch experience, where I’m able to hit pause and go get snacks whenever I want…)
Puzzle of the Week:
I’m getting back to my puzzles! I even got myself a new table for puzzling on, just the right size. I’m working on a puzzle with the theme “Inspirational Women”. Fun!
Fresh Catch:
No new books this week.
What will I be reading during the coming week?
Currently in my hands:
The World Gives Way by Marissa Levien: Not what I expected, but it’s holding my interest! I thought I’d finish on Sunday, but ended up busy with family and didn’t read at all. I’m almost done — should have a review up in the next few days.
Skye Falling by Mia McKenzie: Just getting started!
Now playing via audiobook:
A Single Thread by Tracy Chevalier: My book group’s pick for June. I’m a little behind, but I’ll catch up to the group soon, I hope.
Ongoing reads:
Outlander Book Club is doing a speed-re-read of Written in My Own Heart’s Blood, #8 in the Outlander series. We’re reading and discussing 5 chapters per week. Let me know if you want to join in — the more, the merrier! This week: Chapters 36 – 40.
So many books, so little time…
Bookshelf Fantasies 
The Rabbit cover did catch my eye, but I’ve been thinking about it since gaming is not within my usual circle of interests.
I like the new jigsaw, I don’t think I’ve ever come across a round one before.
Doing a round puzzle is definitely different. 🙂 This is a really fun one, and there’s a ton of little details about each of the featured women, so I’ll have to take the time to really read and enjoy it once I’m done!
Have fun!
We took my husband out for Father’s Day dinner yesterday, to an INSIDE restaurant, no masks, no social distancing. It was surreal! I was laughing when the bill came because I had forgotten they have to run your card first and then they bring the receipt to sign. Not sure I’m ready to do it again any time soon, but I definitely need practice, lol.
Going out for the first time is such a weird experience! When I went back east a couple of months ago to see my dad, it was shocking to see that everyone there was already going out to restaurants, and the rules were so strange (and made no sense). Even at the movie on Friday, I was one of the only people not wearing a mask, so I felt kind of uncomfortable about it (even though I was totally following my state’s rules!)