Last Train to Paradise Book Review

Posted on April 16, 2026April 16, 2026 by Econogal

If Last Train to Paradise existed during my school days, I am sure the Les Standiford history would have been required reading. However, the text was not published until the early 21^st Century. Thus, the non-fiction account was an option. And a very good one for history buffs and others.

The Last Train to Paradise is more than a biography of Henry Flagler. The book chronicles his life and work. But at heart, the writing conjures the trials and tribulations of building the Florida East Coast Railway. A feat most said was not possible, indeed only a folly.

Les Standiford writes both fiction and non-fiction. This gives Last Train to Paradise an edge in literary circles because the writing is engaging even though it is at core factual history. Standiford catches the reader from the start with a snippet on Ernest Hemingway as the Hurricane of 1935 approaches. Then he dives into a deep history of Henry Flagler.

This roundabout approach works. The reader knows a catastrophe is on the horizon. The writer is up to the task of both entertaining and positing the inevitable outcome of building a railway over the open sea. Last Train to Paradise captures the reader.

For readers unfamiliar with Henry Flagler, the author does an outstanding job from a biographical viewpoint. Flagler made the choice to develop the Atlantic Coast of Florida instead of remaining actively involved with Standard Oil. The development of cities, hotels and railway lines used up much of Flagler’s oil fortune.

So, while J.D. Rockefeller remains a recognizable name, outside of Florida, Flagler is not as well known. Fortunately for history buffs, historians such as Les Standiford are preserving the past.

The details of the Florida East Coast Railway construction are preserved in books such as Last Train to Paradise as well as museums and other writings. Visitors to the Florida Keys can see remnants of the passageway. Those vacationers driving to Key West will have the best understanding of the magnitude of the task of building the railway.

Family Drama Book Review

Posted on April 9, 2026April 9, 2026 by Econogal

The current story focuses on the motherless twins growing up to adulthood. Viola and Sebastion differ in personalities as well as in memories of their mother. Viola is serious and scholarly like her father even though her looks resemble her mother. Sebastion is far more artsy and hates to study. Plus, he is obsessed with Susan the actress.

Fallon’s plot is intriguing, if a bit unsettling. Young Viola falls in love with her mother’s co-star when she meets him at the funeral. And again, many years later as a college student in England. Their relationship is troubling until the author unravels the plot.

Meanwhile, Sebastian continues his rebellion against their father. He is unwilling to accept a replacement for his mother even though her death occurred fifteen years prior. Fortunately, Sebastian learns to channel his anger into art.

The distancing between the twins as they mature is blamed by both on their mother’s premature death. Yet, they are also accountable.

March 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on March 31, 2026March 31, 2026 by Econogal

Artichoke after overwintering with green leaves — Artichoke

The wacky weather on the High Plains brought warmer than usual temperatures during March 2026. We have been cutting asparagus for a week now. They popped up before any spring rains. But the highlight of the garden was the survival of at least one of the artichokes. The very mild winter most likely contributed to that. So, I will be harvesting artichokes for the first time.

Multiple seeds are growing into seedlings either under the lights in the basement or in the cold frame outside. Patience now comes into play. The old oak tree shows little sign of leafing out yet. As long-time readers know, I rely on Mother Nature’s signs to start transplanting into the ground.

Key West Adventures

Posted on March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 by Econogal

Ernest Hemingway lived on the island for a short but productive time of his life. Nearly seventy percent of his books were written in this almost decade from 1928 to 1939. He bought a house that was built by Asa Tift. (It would be interesting to learn more about the Tift and the house he built in the mid-1850s.) Then his wife, Pauline, oversaw the addition of a beautiful pool.

The house is now a museum, a home for a plethora of cats and a tiny bit of a tourist trap. There were too many people on the grounds to linger for the hours I could have spent there. The one guide I listened to briefly needed better training. We learned more from the signage of the displays and those in various locations on the grounds.

The architecture and structural soundness of the house is amazing. The exterior stone wall built for Hemingway’s privacy may add protection from the many tropical storms and hurricanes that have passed through Key West.

Writing room of Earnest Hemingway — Hemingway’s Writer’s Retreat

Ct sleeping on a white bedspread in the Hemingway Museum — Cats Rule the Museum

Cat standing at the check-out at Hemingway Museum Gift Shop — Cat manning the cashier spot in gift shop

The main adventure excursion was a boat trip to the coral reefs off the coast of Key West. The babies and I enjoyed the boat ride. The three-year old bravely attempted the water a couple of times and the older kids and adults loved the activity even though the waters are still a bit cool. We used Sunset Water Sports and felt they earned their fee.

Dolphins and fish were spotted. The reefs were close to the surface, and we chose the calmest of the two days to venture out. Veteran snorkelers may prefer an alternative as the time in the water is short. Also, multiple boats were at the site.

House front decorated for Easter — Vibes similar to New Orleans

Duval Street is the hub of tourist activity. Multiple restaurants, art galleries and gift shops line the similar, but not the same as Bourbon Street, boulevard. The spring break crowds made the atmosphere lively but there was plenty of room for strolling on the sidewalks.

The weekend we were in Key West was seasonal to a bit on the cool side. Highs in the upper 70s. Veteran Floridians wore light jackets in the evenings but northerners went without. Ubers were plentiful and shuttles were also available during the day.

Groups of twelve make it tough to find a table. But we succeeded. Our first night we dined at The Waterfront Brewery…an arcade, restaurant and bar rolled into one. Loud and entertaining for the kids. So, I did not expect fantastic food as well. But the meal was the best of the trip. Fresh scallops and shrimp atop a mouth-watering risotto. If we stayed more than two days this would be a repeat dining option.

Since not everyone in the group partakes in breakfast, we ate in smaller numbers. While I enjoyed a healthy breakfast at the Parrot Key Hotel and Villas, (more later) my favorite breakfast was a local spot within walking distance of our hotel.

Goldman’s Deli is in a strip center at 2796 N. Roosevelt Blvd. If you take a trip to Key West this is a fantastic place for either breakfast or lunch. The service is great and so is the food. I was even able to get an oatmeal to go for another member of the party. But bring an appetite because the servings are big.

My daughter and her family actually visited here twice! And you can of course buy a T-shirt…it is Key West after all.

A final note on our stay. As I age, I am trying to delegate more. So, the find of Parrot Key Hotel is attributed to my daughters. However, I made the arrangements, and the resort was great to work with. Everything from the pools and The Grove Restaurant attached to the main pool to the artificially created beach was perfect. The location is on the water but in a protected bay area thus the manmade beach. However, the beach feel is there, and the kids loved playing in the sand.

In my opinion, the increase in the price for these waterfront rooms was well worth it. The lower-level rooms are great for seniors. The resort comes complete with island chickens and roosters, and one can experience the sounds of Reveille and Retreat from across the water. All things I appreciated. This resort is about two miles from Duvall Street. So, perfect if you want a bit of space from the nightlife. I highly recommend this resort.

Man-made beach with beach chairs and palm trees as sunset begins — Beach along the waterfront

The Robots are Coming

Posted on March 24, 2026March 24, 2026 by Econogal

Robotic wheelchairs parking in a line — Robotic wheelchairs parking at an airport gate.

While I enjoy rural life in a semi-remote area, travelling always brings technological surprises and it appears the robots are coming from what I saw on the latest trip. During a layover airport workout, I glimpsed for the first time automated wheelchairs.

I was rucking through the terminal when I first saw an individual being transported from a gate and it wasn’t too long before I spotted an empty one steadily rolling towards a gate with an incoming plane. They were equipped with a unique sound and blinking lights, but also with a very pleasant female voice politely asking those impeding their movement with a “Please step aside.”

Life in the boondocks certainly makes for discoveries when travelling.

Of course, flyover country witnesses’ technological advances as evidenced by last year’s post about the Vemeer SPX 25 trencher. While the machine still needed human help, it eliminated backbreaking manual labor to run new Internet line. However, travel really shows the large number of changes occurring in cities such as the first robot spotted a few years ago in Austin. Neither of these devices resembled Rosey from the old cartoon The Jetson’s.

What jobs will still be available for humans? If the robots can be fine-tuned to provide manual services such as pushing wheelchairs from point to point, what other tasks can be replaced?

Furthermore, the trencher was not programmed with voice protocols like the wheelchairs. One wonders how much and how soon communication between machines and humans will become standard. Will airport wheelchairs just have limited recordings? Or will the robots have answers like many chat bots? Will one be able to ask directions or other questions? Alexa comes to mind.

Just typing the first word prompted the second. AI is here to stay. So, I am starting to adapt. Recently, one of the offspring purchased a house and sent pictures of the back yard for landscaping ideas (and a commitment for physical help.) Using CoPilot, not Claude or any of the much-touted programs, I was able to come up with a plan complete with specific plants. Furthermore, the program provided a diagram. The drawing was not as fancy as one provided by a human landscape designer, but the cost was much less than the hundreds (or possibly more) a human would charge.

One can ask for specific answers or request suggested outcomes. Perhaps the second will allow the brain to continue growing. One fear is we will lose our thought processes including common sense. But my greatest fear revolves around intelligence. For now, these machines make plenty of mistakes, one’s humans can catch and acknowledge. But what happens when the robots are smarter than we are? Emotions, including compassion and even guilt, are what makes us human.

Wheelchair motoring through airport terminal — The Future is now.

The Fair Weather Friend Book Review

Posted on March 11, 2026March 11, 2026 by Econogal

Jessie Garcia’s The Fair Weather Friend captivated me from start to finish. This can’t put down book is full of surprises right up to the very end. And I am not quite sure how I feel about the outcome. Multiple characters in the novel face moral dilemmas. Not all choose wisely.

The story has numerous points of view with most of the main characters baring their souls to the reader. Some are deserving of empathy, most are not. The Fair Weather Friend is so much more than a murder mystery.

Faith’s early demise by foul play keeps her from protagonist status. But the story truly revolves around her. A popular TV meteorologist, her murder is the focus of the story. The other characters are either suspects, co-workers or fans. Garcia advances the story through various points of view.

Garcia’s twists in the plot are truly surprising. Additionally, many of the characters lack empathy for the murder victim. Indeed, they make the departed unlikeable.

Then a second character is murdered, and everything twists again.

The First Time I Saw Him Book Review

Posted on February 20, 2026February 20, 2026 by Econogal

The Bride Wore White Book Review

Posted on February 13, 2026February 13, 2026 by Econogal

I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees Book Review

Posted on February 6, 2026February 6, 2026 by Econogal

We meet Wendell Jones on an executive bonding retreat for the various compliance officers of Peregrine Perch. He is out of his natural element and quite concerned about the first day task, rock climbing in California. He completes the task and immediately quits. Both the retreat and his job.

Back in Colorado, he begins walking dogs for a living. And starts a rebellion against his old boss. Key to Wendell’s transformation from compliance officer to renegade leader for common sense laws are friends, Michael Porter, Mr. Tuttle, owner of an area landscape company, Erica, and the many residents of Peregrine Perch.

Wendell becomes a hero to all as he sabotages park landscape rules and regulations.

The overarching theme in I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees is the dark side of algorithms and artificial intelligence. Common sense goes out the window when a society tries to keep everything within a narrow window of parameters. Exceptions and anomalies are part of life, but it is easier for bureaucrats to maintain conformity. Otherwise, those in charge must engage in critical thinking to ensure fairness and justice. Algorithms and AI are restricted by their inputs. At least for now, computers cannot think for themselves.

January 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 by Econogal

Small 9 x 11 doll quilt in rainbow ordered strips of various patterns. — Front of doll quilt

The temperatures really fluctuated during the day this month, from below freezing to almost seventy degrees Fahrenheit. But once the sun goes down the temperatures plummet below freezing. Small towns on the High Plains lack the concrete infrastructure to hold onto the heat. Perfect weather for working on quilts.

This month brought both piecing and hand quilting. Best of all, it gave me a chance to help my oldest grandchild sew her first doll quilt. She is tall enough to reach the foot peddle on the sewing machine. It did take some practice to regulate the speed.

Quilt backing made from fabric with a checkerboard type of print. — Doll Quilt Backing

The strip quilt was 9 x 11, perfect for a Barbie doll. She picked out a favorite scrap and then several additional scrap strips to blend with it. I helped her with the rotary cutting. She also made a pre-printed Barbie tablecloth to give to her younger sister who loves to have tea parties and picnics with her dolls.

In addition to the reviewed books, two other reviews will drop in the next week to ten days. The delightful Bob Seay book, I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees and the super scary at the start Amanda Quick Romance, The Bride Wore White.

Additionally, I calmed my nerves with the re-reading of Dolores Johnson’s cozy murder mystery Pressed to Kill from the Mandy Dyer Series set in Denver, Colorado. I also treated myself to a favorite Catherine Coulter medieval action/romance The Valcourt Heiress.

My diagnosis is too many Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) and the number and symptoms are such that corrections with changes in lifestyle and medication fall short. So, I will have a PVC Ablation at the start of the week. One of my aunts has had the procedure along with others I know. It is amazing what types of medical interventions we have.

So, January 2026 passed slowly. But now I am on the eve of a heart procedure that should bring relief and prevent the muscle from deteriorating. Because the heart is the most important muscle one has, I want to keep mine as strong as possible.

Multiplying Seed Catalogs

Posted on January 26, 2026January 26, 2026 by Econogal

It is January and seed catalogs are multiplying at my house. Online shopping is not a mainstay for me. I prefer supporting the small town businesses. But garden seeds are an exception. Due to the climate, plants need to get started indoors sooner than later.

Since I buy seeds late January to early February, I am now on the list for numerous seed suppliers even if I have never heard of them before. And to a certain extent these companies are reaping a return on their purchase of lists. I always look at the new offerings and sometimes I will try a new company.

Most of the seed catalogs arriving on my doorstep could qualify as a favorite. Standbys such as Burpee, Gurney’s, Johnny’s and Jung appear multiple times a year. Then there are the specialty types. Rare seeds, heirloom seeds, kitchen seeds all seem to find me. Some are thick and glossy, while others are old-fashioned with diagrams instead of photos. I eagerly await them all.

This year both Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds and The Seed Savers Catalog arrived before the new year. Perhaps a belief that the early bird will get the seed buyer. However, like previous years, it is the first really cold snap that has me turning and marking pages in the plethora of seed catalogs.

I am just in the beginning stages of planning this year’s garden. After three years of no squash in order to persuade the squash bugs to move elsewhere, I will add acorn squash back into the mix.

The peanuts I threw into the garden as a last-ditch attempt for plants did produce some seed. However, the seeds are smaller than average.

Sweet Potato slips will need to be ordered again. No crop last year means no roots saved to produce slips for this year’s garden.

At this time there is only one new baby expected in the family. However, other things will impact the size of the garden. And the time devoted to gardening. All are inputs for determining just how much seed to order. After all the planning and work, everything depends on the timing of mother nature. What are you planting this year?

Innocence Road Book Review

Posted on January 19, 2026January 19, 2026 by Econogal

Leanne Everhart returned to Madrone, Texas following the death of her father. She now works for the Madrone Police Department just like he did. Following in his shadow is not easy.

Tough and experienced by a stint in the city, Leanne faces a complicated life back in the small town. Her brother is a recovering addict with a secret girlfriend. And then there is her mom. Since her mom remarried just weeks after her father’s death, Leanne holds a bit of a grudge.

Finally, Duncan Harper, a sheriff’s deputy has a soft spot for Leanne. But she is keeping him at arm’s length despite her feelings for him. Why, is a bit of a mystery. So, life is complicated for Leanne even without two major cases popping up to catch her off-guard.

The Black Wolf Book Review

Posted on January 9, 2026January 9, 2026 by Econogal

Climate change is central to the novel. Specifically, the author writes about wildfire, similar to the huge wildfires North America has experienced over the last few years. She deftly ties the wildfires to water quality. Furthermore, Penny takes this point one step further. “What happens when the water runs out?” Historically, wars are fought over resources and power. Penny stresses this fact throughout The Black Wolf. And as often happens fiction can be a precursor to life. Is it possible that Canada could become the 51^st state?

One of the complexities of the Gamache series is the plethora of characters. It is possible for the reader to become confused. Another difficulty relates to Inspector Gamache inability to decide who the mastermind is. And who can be trusted. This is intentional. The twists and turns engage the reader.

The characters are divided into three groups, those always in the books, those appearing from time to time and first-time appearances. New readers will have a hard time keeping everything straight in The Black Wolf. Perhaps even devoted followers.

One of the zingers in the novel relates to the current political climate. The plot of The Black Wolf hinges on strained relations between Canada and the United States of America. Penny proposes in her fiction that a plot is underfoot to merge the two countries. Both misinformation and disinformation play a part. Power figures include politicians and the mafia as well as various police forces. The current real-life idea of a fifty-first state iterated by President Trump mirrors the fiction. Penny unknowingly foreshadowed this power move. Again, it boils down to “What happens when the water runs out?”

The Correspondent Book Review

Posted on January 4, 2026January 4, 2026 by Econogal

The Correspondent begins in 2012. At first, the letters are spaced close together and the reader discovers Sybil’s background and character in fits and starts. She corresponds mostly by hand-written notes with everyone from family members and favorite authors to children and teenagers. She also fires off missives of anger and contempt to individuals deserving such admonishments.

The book reveals everything through this format. And while it may be difficult to follow at first, Evans does an excellent job engaging the reader. Over the course of the decade, Sybil grows and gains understanding, even as she reaches her eighties.

Aging is a small piece of the novel. Health issues creep up as the years pass reflecting real life. Sybil is losing her sight, and this threatens her at the core. Writing letters becomes increasingly difficult and as the years go by, and time between missives widens.

The overarching theme is family relationships. The mother-daughter relationship between Sybil and her daughter, Fiona, is a major component of the story. As is the loss of a child. So, it is not surprising that grief, guilt, culpability and blame play important parts in The Correspondent.

December 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on December 31, 2025December 31, 2025 by Econogal

December 2025 was a blur. Partly because I finally succumbed to Covid. Fortunately, I am a believer in vaccines, and my symptoms amounted to some sneezing and a bit of a headache. My spouse, who had made time for the flu shot but not the Covid shot, did not fare well. In fact, the only thing that staved off a visit to the E.R. was the cans of Boost oxygen I have on hand as part of my home emergency kit. For those of you that are anti-mRNA, Novovax makes a traditional vaccine that took several years to develop.

Then, after testing negative again-it took about a week, even though I never developed a fever or sore throat, I traveled to Florida to spend Christmas with one of my offspring. Long time readers will remember the flip-house where he resides.

Tomorrow begins a new year. Resolutions are hard to keep throughout the entire twelve months. In the past, I have tried to keep readers updated on my goals. Last year, I am not even sure I made any resolutions and I certainly didn’t keep them if I did. 2025 was a whirlwind of travel and fortunately new life. The two grandkids born twenty days apart have about six more months before a new little one claims the spot of newest in the family.

So, any new resolutions need to stay simple. Very simple. Maybe stretching everyday can be a start.

I took a few photos from the Florida house. This was a foreclosure we bought in July of 2019 and intended to flip. Well, we fell in love with the new layout. A few walls came down but it is not the one huge open space that was the trend at the time. The house lives larger than the square footage. A family member claimed the flip as home.

We were busy in the kitchen most of the time and pictures of the bedrooms were off limits for privacy reasons. But I thought you might enjoy the update. Happy New Year everyone.

All The Beauty In The World: The Metropolitan Museum Of Art And Me Book Review

Posted on December 29, 2025December 29, 2025 by Econogal

All The Beauty In The World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art And Me by Patrick Bringley is the most insightful and hauntingly beautiful memoir I have ever read. The author shares the pain of losing a sibling way to early and how a position as a security guard at the Metropolitan of Art helps him heal along with the passage of ten years. His descriptions of the plethora of masterpieces on display shine through the rote and routine of grief.

The reader only glimpses his home life. Much of what is depicted is life at the museum. Bringley focuses on his interactions with co-workers, the public, and most importantly the art. The beginning of his tenure is tinged with raw grief. As the years pass, his reflections encompass grief, current life and thoughts about the future.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art encompasses history of mankind and beyond. Illustrations include a map as a reminder to those who have visited. For those without that pleasure, the map and illustrations of various art pieces will stir a desire to visit New York, if only to walk through the museum.

Bringley does justice with his descriptions. Not just the masterpieces, but also how the public interacts with the museum itself. Various types of individuals are described, both good and not so good. From chattering school children to college student to art lovers, the museum welcomes all.

The book came recommended by a family member. Perhaps she guessed I might be ready for this introspective on grief. Certainly, my last five years have brought forward much pain. The glimpses into Bringley’s private life allow one to feel a connection. Reconciliation of the loss of a loved one does not occur in just a few months. It takes years.

Perhaps others in similar situations will also relate. If so, my hope is that All The Beauty In The World: The Metropolitan Museum Of Art And Me brings you peace. Life does not stop for the living. There are new challenges and new seasons. Many reasons to keep living.

I highly recommend All the Beauty In The World. My parents took me to many museums. (Although I first stepped into The Metropolitan Museum of Art with college roommates.) Then we took my children. Now, my husband and I accompany our children while they introduce their children to the many wonderful museums. And of the many museums, The Met is at the top.

However, Bringley’s memoir is so much more than the inspiration of art. The process of grief differs for each individual. The loss of a parent, child, sibling, mentor or close friend brings a change that cannot be undone. Death is permanent. Patrick Bringley understands this. Furthermore, All The Beauty In The World is his acknowledgement of his brother’s passing; an uncle his children will only know through stories. And this story is a great tribute.

If you are grieving or know someone who is, buy this book, read and if appropriate, share. The memoir is as beautiful as the art at The Metropolitan Museum.

Econogal’s Top Ten Books of 2025

Posted on December 5, 2025December 5, 2025 by Econogal

The close of another year once again brings a listing of the top books read by this blogger. The year started out with lots of time spent turning the pages. However, the fall proved sporadic. There are many excuses. Hopefully, this trend does not continue into the new year.

Even with the slowdown, it was hard to keep to just ten. Once again, very little non-fiction. The one I connected with, The Ageless Brain by Dale E. Bredesen, M.D., was panned by the bigwigs. However, I stand by my review which you can click here to read. I think the other reviewers missed the forest while searching for trees.

I also enjoyed the sole Young Adult review, Fun Fact: I Love You. This debut novel by Gina Lynn Larsen makes me want to read more of this genre. And of course I need not neglect books for younger children.

November 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on November 30, 2025November 30, 2025 by Econogal

Fronds of artichoke plant popping through thick layer of mulch. — Artichoke plant not wanting to stay dormant.

November 2025 was a transition month. The start was warmer than expected for the season. Temperatures were summer-like. Plus, a few rainy days and lots of wind. No snow yet. The weather experienced was more like Octobers of the past. But the seasons are changing.

Proof of the odd weather was the covered artichokes popping through the mulch. New growth occurred due to rain and warm weather. These plants were not re-trimmed. Instead, additional mulch was added. The third plant did not grow through the protective layer. It was the one surrounded by the bricks first. So, there are interesting notes for the experiment.

Finally, the end of the month harkens back to traditional weather. Cold, very cold, with chances of snow. Perfect for getting into the holiday mood albeit tricky for holiday travel.

Yardwork took a backseat to the craft room in the basement. So, November 2025 was filled with sewing. Crafts included everything from stockings to soft fabric books for the wee ones. A new quilt was designed and several others near completion. All of the projects will be Christmas presents or items created for local craft fairs.

Productivity in needlework is showing a resurgence in the millennial generation. Hand crafted gifts are rich in meaning for all generations. Hopefully this trend continues. Long ago I made quilts for each couple in my newly wed husband’s family. Maybe a similar homemade gift will be among the 2026 resolutions.

This year all but one of the offspring travelled to Louisville, Kentucky for Thanksgiving. Churchill Downs, best known for hosting the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May, also puts on a fantastic Thanksgiving spread. Turkey, ham and all the traditional sides grace the buffet.

The kids and grandkids present all enjoyed watching the races from the first turn. Spectators can easily access the apron for a close-up view of the track. Coats and gloves were a necessity. Because the weather was cold.

A Matter of Pedigree Book Review

Posted on November 26, 2025November 26, 2025 by Econogal

Three generations of Capobianco’s are introduced in the novel. Frank and Carole are the sandwich generation. Big Frank and Mom are Frank’s parents (and very close to Carole). Connie, a lawyer, and Frank-O, a student artist are the younger generation. Eventually, Polly, Carole’s mother, arrives on the scene as well. All feature in A Matter of Pedigree.

Additionally, residents of the original condo as well as the apartments where Frank and Carole ended up, take part in the story. All fall under Carole and Mom’s investigative eyes. Of course, Poopsie steals the role of heroine.

Changing Seasons, Changing Routines

Posted on November 15, 2025November 15, 2025 by Econogal

I do not use alarm clocks daily. Instead, the Eastern sky signals when it is time to wake. During the summer, daylight comes early. Very early. But with the changing seasons, the length of the day also changes. In the Fall, the nights are getting longer. The mornings arrive later and my body adapts. Of course, the invention of Daylight Saving’s time messes with this natural change. Probably why I dislike changing the clocks.

Since frost occurs on a regular basis, there is no early gardening. Instead, I putter around the house doing light chores. The hobby room beckons, and noon can arrive without a single step outdoors.

Golden leaves of a cottonwood tree. — Cottonwood Gold

I fell in love with Fall during college. New England is glorious in October and November. From brilliant reds to awesome oranges the harmony of the colors brings a sensation of peace.

The High Plains may not be known for leaf watching, but beauty is everywhere. Walks around my neighborhood yield colors from the bright yellows of the cottonwoods to the gorgeous spectrum of reds found in the fruitless pear trees. And early afternoons are perfect for walks. Not too cold, not too hot. Goldilocks would be pleased.

Leaves cover the ground. Raking emerges as a daily chore. A short-lived routine.

Vibrant reds on the leaves of a pearless pear tree. — Pear-less Pear

Warm afternoons quickly turn cool as night falls. Too cold to sit on the back porch after supper. Instead, books are read and occasionally television is watched. Hand quilting accompanies the T.V. watching. Sewing and crafting replace the time spent in the garden.

The daily routines adapt to the changing seasons. And it is important to stop and reflect on the beauty of our current season. Quoting Charles Dickens ( A favorite classic writer):

Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of it’s own…

Posted on November 6, 2025November 6, 2025 by Econogal

Ryan is a career military helicopter pilot. And a confirmed bachelor. He is in Shelter Springs to care for his thirteen-year-old niece Audrey, while her mom Kim is in rehab after an accident. His loyalty to Kim stems from the loss of their mother when they were both young teens.

However, he must also interact with his estranged father who lives in nearby Haven Point with his second wife Diane, who broke both an arm and leg in the accident. Ryan genuinely likes Diane but has no desire to be around his father. Most importantly, he must care for Audrey.

Holly and Ryan make a deal to help each other. Holly needs a date to a wedding she must attend since Lydia is the flower girl in her dad’s sister’s wedding. And Ryan needs help making Christmas bright for his niece and sister.

Idaho weather makes a romantic backdrop for the growing attraction between the pair. Snow kissed nights of family-oriented outings allow the attraction to grow. Naturally, both fight their feelings because a long-distance relationship is not easy.

Overwintering Artichokes

Posted on October 29, 2025October 29, 2025 by Econogal

Artichoke growing in a garden row. — Artichoke before overwintering.

Once again, I am overwintering artichokes. The first try was a bust. I had read an article in a Front Range newspaper about keeping artichokes alive through the winter in order to reach their second year when the chokes are produced. But I did little research. Unsurprisingly, failure was the result.

This year I watched several how-to videos and read articles both in books and on the Internet. My hope is to succeed unless the winter temperatures are extreme. Here on the High Plains the thermometer can plummet to more than twenty degrees below zero using the Fahrenheit scale.

There are just a few steps involved in the overwintering process. The first step I neglected on my previous try. The celery-like stalks are trimmed down close to the ground.

Step Two is working a small amount of compost into the ground. The compost will help feed the plants while they are overwintering. I used a couple of handfuls per plant.

Then a heavy layer of mulch is spread across the plant. Since three artichoke plants are growing in the Big Garden, I experimented at this step. One of the plants was surrounded by pavers before spreading the straw mulch. Each plant has close to ten inches of straw atop.

In case the overwintering of the artichokes fails again, Plan B will go into effect late next winter. New seeds will be sprouted. And then they will be placed in a location where the temperatures will remain between 40° and 50° F. This should trick the plant into thinking it is in its second year.

Since the plants need to have some growth by this point, the seeds will most likely be started in January. It will be interesting to see if this works as well as the videos I watched. On the positive side, if the plants outsmart my maneuvers, I can always try overwintering again.

Technology and The Labor Market

Posted on October 22, 2025October 22, 2025 by Econogal

A Vemeer SPX 25 was the unit involved in trenching my yard. Its technology went a step beyond just plowing through my topsoil. This machine pulled a cable casing underneath the ground while operating. So, the machine further reduced the effort needed to successfully install the cable line needed for Internet service.

However, the actual line then needed the two men to thread the line through the orange plastic casing. Human labor is still a small part of the process. But with the ever-increasing development of technology, it may not be long before only one individual is needed. Or perhaps none.

I am currently reading Could Should Might Don’t: How We Think About The Future by Nick Foster. The first few chapters offer a history of technological progress since the last Ice Age. The premise of the opening pages is that for much of history gains in productivity were slow and could be represented by a mostly flat horizontal line.

Now technological growth is accelerating exponentially. Thus the curve needs an almost vertical line. This raises many questions about growth and what kind of roles humans will play. Or will AI take over?

The biggest surprise from the use of the Vibratory Plow was the speed. The two-man crew was here less than an hour. The distance trenched was nearly 75 feet. Technology was a huge time saver. But there are other impacts on the labor market. Ditch diggers of old did not necessary need any skills other than the physical ability to wield a shovel. Yet, the Vemeer SPX 25 needed someone with the skills to operate the remote control. Perhaps this a skill easily learned, but it is still more than manual labor.

As technology moves forward, how much will a kindergartener need to know? And each grade above that? Will everyone be able to code software before graduating from high school? And what if one can’t? And an old question I used to ask my students, ten years from now what jobs will be obsolete and what unheard of positions will develop.

These are truly interesting times we live in.

I Cheerfully Refuse Book Review

Posted on October 6, 2025October 6, 2025 by Econogal

I Cheerfully Refuse is set in the not-too-distant future in the vicinity of the Great Lakes. There were references to events taking place in the twentieth century. Also, the book alluded to lots of pollution and great storms. Finally, the stage is set between “haves” and “have-nots.”

The “haves” are the uber-wealthy and the ones that work for them. Perhaps there is a parallel with the billionaires of the early twenty-first century. The main villain of the story is a bureaucrat named Werryck. He and Rainy cross paths multiple times.

Ranier, known as Rainy, is married to Lark. Their marriage is solid and their lives happy even though they do not live among the astronauts. Apparently, those with money live on the coasts of the country and are referred to as astronauts. But money doesn’t buy happiness.

Rainy is a musician and Lark is a bookseller. She is the optimist and her upbeat way of looking at life while pushing the edges allows Rainy to get through the dark days of life. He is one to learn from others. Furthermore, Rainy is the person who is always there for others, even at a personal cost.

September 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on September 30, 2025September 30, 2025 by Econogal

The beginning of September 2025 was a return from a quick trip to Nashville. So short was our stay that we used the hotel at the airport for two nights. The Hilton Hotel attached to the airport is a beautiful property. Both a pool and restaurant on the rooftop.

While August travel took me to adventurous locations, travel this past month focused on conferences. Both took place in Colorado. The first was in Vail and the second in Golden. The leaves were just beginning to turn. And to be honest, the majority of time was spent indoors.

At the first conference, one of the highlights included an interesting keynote about the economy and the role AI will play. During the question and answer period an attendee asked if AI would pick up the loss of labor due to tighter immigration. The speaker then explained a key principle of labor economics. Since labor is one of the four factors of production, it can have substitutes.

So, some items as well as people are better equipped to swap out. For instance, both turkey and chicken can serve as non-red meat offerings. Thus, turkey and chicken can alternate easily with each other. On the other hand, certain items are harder to switch out. Labor falls into this category. The example I often used involved key players on baseball and basketball teams. A person playing center on the basketball team may not easily switch to the pitcher on the mound. Even if an outstanding athlete. Extending the theory, AI might not be able to replace humans in all jobs. But the technology will replace some people. Those individuals may not be qualified or desire to perform the roles migrants take.

The second conference I attended was just as informative. Once again, technology was highlighted. One of Zonta International’s service projects is called LAAHA. This project provides secure access to health information on the internet. UNICEF is a partner on this program.

A second presentation gave a sobering discussion on how negative the internet can be with respect to isolation and radicalization. In light of the many shootings, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I believe this is a critical conversation. We need to implement solutions before society breaks down completely.

On a positive note, two outstanding young women gave speeches showcasing why they were award winners at the international level. I was fortunate enough to share a table with both. It is easy to lose sight of the good in this world. Young people are our future.

Finally, I enjoyed and was honored by meeting the Zonta International President Elect. Fernanda Gallo-Freschi is a skilled engineer by training and a warm and generous person by nature. I believe she is the perfect person to lead Zontians into the next biennium.

As long time readers noted, September 2025 varied from most months. Very few posts and not much reading occurred. Furthermore, the baby quilt is still not finished and only one of the Christmas stockings is started.

In addition to the travel, I canned produce from the garden. Lots and lots of salsa with a few batches of spaghetti sauces and pickles sprinkled into the mix. Plenty to share.

Finally, last week we said Bon voyage to neighbors of thirty years. They are relocating to the coast of France. I am looking forward to a visit in the future. It feels odd to now be the longest residents on the street.

Henry Flagler and the Florida East Coast Railway

Author

Last Train to Paradise

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Debut Novel

Two Careers

Family Drama Present Day

Alcott Bliss

Recommendation

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No Winners

Reading during March 2026

Early Spring in the Garden

March 2026 Quilting

Looking Forward

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Family Vacation

The Hemingway Museum

Snorkeling Off Key West

Old Town Key West

Dining on the Island

Parrot Key Hotel and Villas

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Another Travel Tech Surprise

Technological Advances and the Robots

Artificial Intelligence

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Captivating Novel

Overarching Theme

Demise of Faith, The Fair Weather Friend

Author Jessie Garcia

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Good Sequel

Hannah and Bailey

Flashbacks in The First Time I Saw Him

Emotional Impact of The First Time I Saw Him

Recommendation

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A Romance at Heart

The Psychic Dream Consultant

Extrasensory Perception

Greed and Murder in The Bride Wore White

Recommendation

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Great Library Find

Compliance in I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees

Wendell Jones- Protagonist

Algorithms, AI and Bureaucrats

Recommendation for I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees

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Better Late than Never

Quilting Through the Winter Cold

January 2026 In the Library

Update on my Heart

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January Sprouts Seed Catalogs

Favorite Seed Catalogs

No Signs of Seed Inflation

2026 Garden

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New to Me Author

Protagonist of Innocence Road

Plot of Innocence Road

Recommendation

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Long Awaited Sequel

Theme of The Black Wolf

Plethora of Characters