The Women Book Review

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Vietnam War

Kristen Hannah has outdone herself with her penning of The Women. The author known for her historical fiction from various eras including World War II, turns to Vietnam with her 2024 release. The novel is provocative. Those born after the war will find a glimpse of history.

However, readers like myself will have the anguish of those years brought fresh as if David Brinkley reported the weekly deaths just yesterday. Pretty sobering that the death counts are among my first memories of television. Furthermore, the stigma of having a military Dad in the late 1970s returns. The public turned against the soldiers. Thankfully, that is no longer the case, most likely due to 9/11.

Hannah brings all these emotions into play.

Protagonist Frances “Frankie” McGrath

The heroine of The Women is young Frankie. Idealistic and naïve, the teenager becomes a nurse in order to follow her brother Finley, to Vietnam. Shipped over to Vietnam shortly after learning of her brother’s death, Frankie is dropped straight into the war zone. She grows up almost overnight and loses so, so much.

The Women Serving in Vietnam

Frankie and fellow bunkmates Barb and Ethel forge the strong bond of warriors as they treat the wounded and the dying daily. They face a different battle then the men. And they are in great danger in these advanced medical units close to the fighting. The descriptions of Hannah take the reader straight to the jungle. And to the war itself.

Coming Home

One by one the women return home. But they are not greeted warmly as sentiment against the war now includes those in service. For Frankie, the return and the attitude of her parents and society is her undoing. Hospitals don’t respect the skills developed in the triage of battle. She is forced to prove herself as if she was still the young teenager.

Furthermore, the VA does not recognize her service and like many of the women returning, she is denied counselling services. She spirals downward. It is painful to read the fiction that reflects reality.

The Vietnam Vets were not welcomed home, not seen as heroes for the most part. Many became addicted to drugs and alcohol. Many became homeless. Kristen Hannah is outstanding with this portrayal of the men and women who served.

Recommendation for The Women

Once again, Hannah is atop various bestsellers lists and The Women will certainly make Econogal’s top books of 2024 list. Ninety-five percent of the book moved me. I cried throughout the book remembering the divided country of the 1960s and 70s. The almost happy ending jarred a bit. And I’ll reflect upon that in the final paragraph of this review. Overall, it was outstanding and a must-read type of book. Great perspective on the Vietnam War and those who survived.

Furthermore, I recommend the reading of The Women as a way to remember the past. Too many individuals identifying as political extremists and calling for a civil war need to understand war is not good. There are no winners in any war. Certainly not within a nation.

As I have repeatedly stated. This nation, undivided after 9/11, is under attack by propaganda. Our enemies understand a divided house cannot stand. We need to recognize internal unrest is a threat. For those never exposed to the horrors of war, you need to read books such as The Women. And accounts of the Civil War. Divided nations suffer greatly and in the 1860s, brothers did fight against one another. Regardless of the voting outcome in November 2024, Americans must not turn against each other. Instead, if unpleased by the results-start planning for the 2028 elections and consider running for office yourself.

Pitch Dark Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

Mike Bowditch Series

I spotted Paul Doiron’s Pitch Dark on the new release table at the library. This latest in the Mike Bowditch series offers intense action through the Maine woods adjacent to the Canadian Border. Bowditch is a game warden with topnotch investigative skills.

Doiron overlaps story lines between the protagonist’s home and work life. The opening scene foreshadows the key dilemma of the book, protecting one’s family at all costs. Yet, the story goes even deeper. What determines personalities? Nurture or nature, or something else?

Plot of Pitch Dark

Bowditch responds to a missing person call. “Hammond Pratt” disappeared in the muddy backwoods after asking many questions about a father and daughter temporarily living off grid while building a cabin. Online searches of both parties return zero, adding to the mystery.

Before Pratt can be found, Bowditch crosses paths with Mark Redmond and his daughter, Cady. Things go downhill quickly as the pair are living under assumed names. Then, murder and mayhem strike. This leads to a chase through the dense forest at pitch dark night with multiple side characters creating difficulties for the investigator.

Moral Quandary

Pitch Dark is full of hard decisions for the characters. As in real life, options can be limited to poor, bad, and worse. Doiron is a master at highlighting gray areas. Pursuing the wrong path may result in good but have long term repercussions.

Recommendation for Pitch Dark

The Mike Bowditch series is a favorite because Doiron combines action with moral dilemma. Sometimes his characters can be categorized as good or evil. But that is not the case in Pitch Dark. The layers of the many characters are unpeeled, allowing the reader to see the flaws of the individuals. Yes, no one is perfect. This is an overarching theme of the series.

Pitch Dark is great for those loving complex mysteries. I highly recommend for individuals as well as book clubs.

 

September 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on by Econogal

Fall is Here

The September 2024 calendar was filled with travelling, canning, reading and writing. Warm daytime temperatures and cool nights make this one of my favorite months. Add in the beauty of the turning leaves and the ripening of vine fruits and you have just about everything one could ask for.

Unfortunately for those not living on the High Plains and within driving distance of the Rockies, the weather may not have been as pleasant. Plus, my heart goes out to those residing in the Southeast part of the country. Hurricane season is not to be taken lightly.

Travel in September 2024

The mountains of Central Colorado are at peak fall color. So, I tagged along on a business trip to Vail Valley. In addition to Vail, I spent time in Silverthorne with a dear friend. We had a delicious lunch at Enza’s Delicatessen and Market, sitting outside along the creek.

Dinner in Vail the first night was also along a creek-Gore Creek at Mountain Standard. The restaurant hosts a hearty menu of various meats. We try to eat here every time we are in Vail.

The second night we wandered through the village for an hour before finding a pizza place. Pazzo’s Pizza had the Thursday Night football game on. Now that these games are streamed for pay, it was nice to find a spot with a subscription. On top of that, our pizza earned Pazzo’s a rank among the top in pizzeria’s west of the Mississippi.

Fall Colors

Aspens in Background ski lift in foreground
Vail Mountain

Gore Creek

Stream flowing

Silverthorne

Aspens turning blue sky with two stray clouds

In the Garden September 2024

The abundance of tomatoes and cantaloupe continues in this year’s garden. The green beans are now producing as well. I am watching the calendar closely. The sweet potatoes need to be dug just after the first light frost. This helps cure them for storage. Also, it is time to plant the garlic for next season. So, work in the garden is not quite finished.

In the Library

This month I zipped through the Sunshine Vicram trilogy by Darynda Jones. Each was enjoyable. September 2024 also marked a return to a favorite series.  Paul Doiron’s Mike Bowditch appears in Pitch Dark. Once again, a master author weaves action-adventure with thought provoking plots. Full of twists and turns, look for a review soon.

Final Thoughts

Social media continues to baffle me. Searching for first-hand accounts of Hurricane Helene yields bitter political discourse. Also, there are a variety of conspiracy theories regarding the weather. No common sense and very little compassion and understanding.

Fortunately, in-person conversations continue to uplift. One recent encounter at a C-Store on an interstate provided much joy. Little Daisy Mae in her side car is a service dog with excellent training and great behavior. Her owner was tickled with recent awards at a car show in Goodland, Kansas. Our conversation ended because vehicles were waiting for their turn at the pump. I need more of this in my life! Real people and real experiences.

Daisy Mae

Australian Shepard riding in a side car of an Indian Brand Motorcycle

Updating The GO Bags

Posted on by Econogal

Emergency Preparedness

Watching the coverage of Hurricane Helene prompted me to pull the GO Bags out of the front closet to check for needed updates. Quite a few were needed. To be honest, it has probably been close to two years (or even more) since I last checked these important evacuation items. So, this morning’s chores included a shopping trip to replace a few key items in the bags.

Essentials for GO Bags

Clothes, medical items, food, rescue equipment and toiletries make up the bulk of what goes into the GO Bags. Additional items might fall under entertainment. These may end up being very important if you have children in your family.

It is important not to overload the backpacks. One might need to carry the load for a distance. A key item not on the list is water. I keep that in a separate rolling bag.

Clothes

Clothes for the GO Bag include gloves socks T-shirt and sweat shirt
Clothes

I have the following packed in my bag:

  • 2 pairs of underwear
  • 2 pairs of socks
  • 1 short sleeve T-Shirt
  • 1 pair of leggings
  • 1 hooded synthetic sweatshirt
  • Rain Jacket
  • 2 pairs of gloves; one cotton, one wool
  • 1 pair of ankle supports
  • 1 LL Bean beanie with head lamps

The lights in the beanie still work, unlike the small flashlight with similar LED technology.

Medical Items

Both prescription and non-prescription medicines are in the bag. I only have a week’s worth of the two medicines I take daily. Additionally, the following over-the-counter items are included:

Align Probiotic             Thera Tears     Tylenol              Benadryl Cream         Airborne

Neosporin       Aquaphor Lip Repair               Ricola Cough Drops

 

Food for the GO Bags

This is a bit tricky. Perishable goods are not great in storage, so rotation is important. I limit myself to what fits in a one-gallon plastic bag. And I include plastic utensils. Currently, the following items are available:

  • Variety of powdered drink mixes
  • Clif Bars
  • Beef Jerky
  • Trail Mix
  • Nut Butters and Jelly
  • Individual packets of instant oatmeal and hot cocoa

Rescue Equipment

My favorite piece of rescue equipment is the Four Function Whistle by Coghlan’s. Click here for their website. The four functions are a whistle, a compass, a thermometer and a magnifier. I also include:

  • Matches
  • Mirror
  • Handwarmers by Grabber
  • Dryer Lint

Since there is room left in the quart sized bag, I also store mosquito wipes and sunscreen here. The lint is stored inside a recycled medicine bottle.

Toiletries and Personal Care Items

Within the GO Bags, another one-gallon storage bag is chock full of hand selected items to make life a little better if I must evacuate. A combination of wants and needs as follows:

Wash Cloth     Bandana          Toothbrush and toothpaste      Floss   Feminine Products              Comb

Toilet Paper     Band Aids and Tape   Kleenex   Cotton swabs Nail file             Head Band

Cotton Rounds           Hand Sanitizer              Shampoo        Deodorant

Organization of GO Bags

I use quart and gallon sized bags, clearly labeled for everything except the clothes. A drawstring bag holds the clothes in a tight bundle. Then the bundle and most of the other containers go inside a waterproof zipped storage bag. This zipped bag was recycled from some purchase long ago. The Food Storage bag is kept separate.

Since space is still available in the side pockets, other items such as spare reading glasses, a map, a sheet of paper with contact phone numbers, extra shoelaces and a belt are added. The last two items are a small hand sewing kit with buttons and a small fabric bag with cash in mixed denominations. Just beware of the overall weight. Mine weighs about twelve pounds. This falls into the guidelines of staying between ten and twenty percent of my body weight.

Hopefully, I will never need to use a Go Bag. But if a natural disaster heads my way…I am ready to go.

 

Out of Nowhere Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

Changed in an Instant

Sandra Brown’s Out of Nowhere starts with the premise that both tragedy and love can strike out of nowhere. Lives are changed in an instant when a mass shooting occurs at a county fair. Brown’s characters include guilt-ridden survivors, frustrated law officers and the unknown sub(ordinate) as they struggle with the aftermath.

Romantic Interest

Calder Hudson, surviving victim of the shooting, fights his attraction for Elle Portman. Ms. Portman lost a family member in the shooting. Both experience survivor’s guilt. Yet they take different approaches to healing.

Over time, their attraction grows, and romance arises from tragedy. However, the shooting is not as random as first thought and thus complications interfere with their relationship.

Readers should be aware that the romance is spicy not sweet.

Portrayal of Law Enforcement

Ms. Brown’s treatment of the characters portraying officers of the law is mixed. Ineptitude is first with the misidentification of the shooter. More mistakes are made in the investigation. Yet the lead officers do not come off as bumbling or uncaring. Instead, they are thwarted, and the reader can identify with their frustration.

Out of Nowhere Shooter

The author cleverly hides the identification of the shooter while still giving the character space with a point of view. However, Brown drops clues so that true sleuths may deduce the name. Others such as this one may have a “that makes sense” moment.

The shooter’s revealed identity and actions prove evil comes in many forms. Unfortunately, a case is made for the connection between severe mental health problems and mass shootings. Out of Nowhere highlights a problem existing in this world.

Recommendation for Out of Nowhere

Sandra Brown is a master storyteller. I have read a few of her books over the years and they contain much suspense, violence and hardcore love scenes. I enjoyed Out of Nowhere even though the premise is so heartbreaking. But Ms. Brown treats the topic with care. Survivors need to take time to heal. Then they need to go on living even with tremendous loss.

Furthermore, the author addresses the issue of instable individuals. Mental health needs attention. A major flaw is one of blaming others for anything going downhill in life. Perhaps it is as easy as going back to keeping score in children’s games. We all will have wins and losses in life. It is important to learn how to deal with the losses. Win-win situations are few and far between.

Out of Nowhere has depth. I highly recommend this novel.

A Bad Day for Sunshine Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

Author Darynda Jones

Another missed book due to the pandemic is A Bad Day for Sunshine by Darynda Jones. This 2020 release contains both suspense and mirth. Not at the same time. Jones creates characters with deep backgrounds and intriguing personalities. There is also sexual tension and violence. So, I am recommending this for adults only.

Setting for A Bad Day for Sunshine

Del Sol, New Mexico is a fictional town in the northern part of the state, up the road from Sante Fe but not quite to Colorado. The region is sprinkled with small towns where everyone knows everything and everybody. Secrets are hard to keep. And town folk tend to rally around their own.

Five minutes from one end of town to the other. The kind of town where parents receive phone calls about kids skipping school before the truants can even get to where they are going. Strangers are noticed instantaneously and newcomers…well, it helps to marry into the community if one’s not fortunate enough to be born there.

Sunshine Vicram née Freyr

A new sheriff is in town. Widow Sunshine Vicram left Del Sol without looking back with infant Auri in tow. Through the years she has made a name for herself in law enforcement in the bigger cities of New Mexico. Then, unbeknownst to her, she manages to win an election, so now she is Sheriff Vicram.

Auri is a teenager. Facing a new high school mid-year is treacherous as the busted New Year’s Eve party resulted in a confiscated keg. Fellow students think she was the narc. To make matters worse, the only friend made during said party is missing. As in abducted. Thus, Auri is anxious to help her mom find Sybil.

Complications

Author Jones weaves many backstories in this introduction to a new series. The multitude of characters makes it tough for the reader to determine the “bad” guy. And there are multiple threads requiring police investigation, including the cold case of a long-ago abduction.

Secondary characters pepper the story. And the most complicated of all is Levi Ravinder. Naturally, Sunshine gravitates toward him just as in their youth. But he may prove even more dangerous now. The skill of the writing brings all the cast to life.

Recommendation

A Bad Day for Sunshine was checked out from the library since it was the start of a series, all with catchy titles. The page turner was read in one sitting with nary a break except to eat. Also checked out was the second in the series A Good Day for Chardonnay, and the library has the third title as well. The Sunshine Vicram series will most likely be devoured by this reader much like The Boxcar Children and The Happy Hollisters from years gone by.

If you have not discovered this series and enjoy suspense tempered with humor, look for Darynda Jones books at your library or favorite bookstore. Well-written with only one (necessary?) plot glitch—NO PARENT would leave the side of a newly found abductee- this series is one to put on your radar.

2034 Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

A Pandemic Miss

Recently, in a book store I grabbed both a new release 2054, and its’ prequel 2034. Both books are written by duo Elliot Ackerman and Admiral James Stavridis. The original release date for 2034 was 2021. So, yet another novel missed due to the pandemic. After completing 2034 in sobering fashion, it will be a while before I tackle 2054. Thought-provoking books take time to digest.

Plot of 2034

The plot of the novel is realistic. The Chinese push back on the Americans trolling of the South China Sea. In real life, and in the book, the status of Taiwan sits as a sharp thorn in the middle of the ocean. Many parallels exist between fiction and life.

2034 posits that the Americans have lost the edge with respect to stealth and cyber defense. Furthermore, the authors create a situation where a cat-and-mouse game gets out of hand due to actions of third-party alliances. This escalates into war.

Cast of Characters

The story is told with multiple points of view. Always tricky, but well written by Ackerman and Stavridis. Interesting enough, the main Iranian character comes across as the most relatable. At least to this reader.

A few real-life individuals are alluded to in the story. But not the ones I expected. And women have a large role in the fight. As usual, rogue characters create havoc. Most interesting was the diversity of the characters and their relative points of view. Thus, 2034 is very global.

Overall Impressions of 2034

At first, the novel strikes one as very technical. Only toward the end do the personalities of each highlighted character come through. Divergent themes are also present. First is the idea that the United States of America is slipping a notch in technology-and doesn’t realize it. Second, expressed mostly through the Indian-American character of Dr. Sandeep “Sandy” Chowdhury, is the thought that the ideal of America is not necessarily bound by borders.

Perhaps the most lasting impression for me is the knowledge of the warriors who tire of war and seek peace in nature and family. The dichotomy of destruction and nurture is best told through the American naval officer Sarah Hunt and the Iranian hero Qassem Farshad. Both seek quietude in the aftermath of war.

Finally, wars produce more losers than winners. They also realign world order. This was true after World War II and true of the fictional war of 2034. Readers may be surprised at the change in power and influence.

August 2024 Wrap-Up

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Superb End of Summer

Multi-tiered wedding cakeSome months race through and others, like August 2024 linger, allowing one to savor the end of summer. So many hot days punctured by thunderstorms giving respite from the sizzle. County fairs, all day canning sessions, and refinishing furniture wound through the month. And the highlights, relatively cool days in Castle Rock, Colorado watching the BMW Championship professional golf tournament and attendance at a beautiful wedding just down the interstate at the beautiful Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs.

Some great reading, visiting with friends and family and finishing a baby quilt all added to a sense of non-stress summer accomplishments. One could wish all months were like August 2024. Certainly, it was a month of productivity. But there was more. Perhaps, it was a concerted effort to unplug from national politics. Two full months remain before the election. Plenty of time to study candidates and ballot issues.

Or maybe because August 2024 allowed me to see three of my four offspring. Family is important. No matter the reason, the past month was quite enjoyable.

Reading and Writing

Summers during my childhood were filled with ocean swims, biking up and down the Daytona Beach peninsula and hours of reading every day. Now, I have many other activities to fit in as well and of course no beach a block away. The time spent in Castle Rock and Colorado Springs offers a replacement for the Atlantic. I could see myself living full time in the Rockies—someday. Hiking and biking and the smell of pines after a rain connect me to the earth as much as salty breezes and cries of seagulls.

Book reviews flow best just after finishing the last chapter. However, sometimes the final page comes just after midnight. This is why my review of The Women has not posted. I am struggling to express the depth of Kristen Hannah’s writing on a topic so close to my heart. The 1970s was not a good time to be an Army Brat.

In the Garden

August 2024 outshines last year in the garden. While the tomatoes are not a banner crop, they are a good amount. Cantaloupe are sweet and prolific as are jalapeños. The last week of the month the serrano pepper bush finally flowered, so barring an early freeze, September will offer even more peppers. Green beans are flowering as well. Plus, the two slips of sweet potatoes are thriving.

Cucumbers are eaten fresh and pickled. And onions are still abundant. I have let some of the salad greens go to seed and will begin collecting that seed soon for next year’s use. I encourage everyone to grow at least a small garden. Even apartments can have a few pots of herbs, lettuces or perhaps green onions.

August 2024 In the Kitchen

Pies for the County Fair auction augmented my usual late summer canning. Multiple batches of salsa, pickles, jellies and jams kept me busy this month. A blend of white grape juice and peach juice several years ago yielded a delicious jelly, so I repeated that combination. Excess white grape juice was frozen to blend with winter fruits for canning in a few months. Unfortunately, my regular supply of purple grapes was not available.

August 2024 Wrap-Up

Focusing on the micro-events and not the macro (think politics) during this month has renewed my sense of purpose. Stresses still occurred. But over all the month was one of the best in recent memory. Looking forward to the rest of the year!

The Summer Pact Book Review

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Survivor’s Guilt

Emily Giffin’s recent release The Summer Pact is a thoughtful tale of survivor’s guilt and much, much more. This novel touched me so much that a spot is reserved for it on the Best Books of 2024 list. Yet, it is not a feel-good, easy summer read. Topics covered include alcoholism, suicide, infidelity, and parental/societal disproval. Furthermore, the author shines a spotlight on Millennials and their struggle to find themselves long after reaching adulthood.

The Summer Pact Theme

At the heart of The Summer Pact is a response of three college friends after a close fourth commits suicide. Each carries guilt from not being there for their friend Summer. So, a pact was agreed on to not follow the same path without giving the others time to reach out. Hannah is the first to call for help after discovering her fiancée in bed with another just weeks before her wedding.

True to the agreement, Lainey and Tyson drop everything and fly to help. From this point on, the novel delves into the backstories of the three characters while the action propels each one forward towards discovery of where to go, how to act and just who they really are.

Discovery

Giffin is outstanding in her non-judgmental approach to multiple topics. Open minded readers will appreciate the social twists presented in the story. Furthermore, the characters are so complex and vulnerable, one aches for their difficulties and celebrates their triumphs.

Perhaps there are families in this world where everything follows the norms of the 1950s. But for the rest, a novel such as The Summer Pact is refreshingly honest. To quote Reinhold Niebuhr: Change is the essence of life; be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become. Throughout The Summer Pact, Hannah, Lainey and Tyson do just that on their way forward on life’s path.

Sights and Sounds of Castle Pines Golf Club: BMW Championship

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Castle Pines

This weekend’s PGA tournament sponsored by BMW is filled with the magnificent sights and sounds of the Castle Pines Golf Club. Even though the area is south of the Denver Metro Area, the topography is akin to the foothills to the west of the city.

The top fifty golfers vying for the thirty slots in the Fed Ex Cup finals are facing the challenge of golfing up and down the fairways at an elevation over 6000 feet above sea level. Kudos to the caddies carrying the equipment for the nine miles traversing the eighteen holes.

First Ever Golf Tournament

The BMW Classic is a first for me. One of my offspring loves to golf and several members of the family actively follow the PGA. Since I knew I would attend the tournament this year, I started following the players in the late spring. The ups and downs of the sport mimic the golf course at Castle Pines. Steep slopes to the top are challenging for a walking fan and a bag toting caddie. Meanwhile, sand traps and water hazards are taxing for golfers. Watching them dig out creates riveting sights. And sounds include loud cheers carrying across the wind for favorite golfers making great shots.

I trained for the rigors of the course by walking the steepest streets and always finishing my hikes going uphill. This paid off. While most walk down Hole #1, for me it was a hike up to see the players tee off for the start. The stands at the tee were available to the general public as well as those with upgraded tickets and served as the stage for the opening ceremony as well as the flyover by four F-16s. (See video below.)

Other hikes upward include Hole #8 and #s 17 and 18. Since I was with others, I did not complete the entire course. Fortunately, I have a ticket for Sunday where I hope to find the hole with the largest of the waterfalls. The small cascade in the slide show is from Hole #3 of Castle Pines.

Sights and Sounds

Landscapers excelled prepping the course. The abundance of flower beds delight as the crowd walks the course. Creeks and waterfalls meander alongside the fairways creating a pleasant background noise. And the crowd, for the most part, practices good etiquette. Even the tiny tots know not to cry out near the greens.

Naturally, birdies are accompanied by cheers and bogeys by groans of empathy. The players themselves are focused on their task. One can almost see the wheels spinning in their heads as they plot how to get out of the sand traps and water hazards.

Natural Wilderness

The golf course is both suburban and wilderness. The masterplan behind the course and community is filled with natural wilderness. Wild turkeys strut around, deer and elk are often seen on the course and bear sightings are often enough to seem normal. Tracks and scat of shier animals can be found too. This connection to nature makes Castle Pines a special place.

Best of all are the plethora of birds in Castle Pines. The zipping of hummingbirds, hooting owls, and flashes of the male bluebirds are all a part of the sights and sounds of Castle Pines. If you go to the tournament, you may even spy my mystery bird-the towhee.

Afternoon mountain rains delayed the finish of the first day, but hopefully will not slow down the players much. And the rains are welcomed by the residents. The thick rough is a by-product of the late afternoon showers. Probably not welcomed by the golfers. Nor are the whistles signaling thunder just as a pro sets up a putt.

BMW Championship

The Evans Scholars Foundation is the beneficiary of ALL the funds raised during the BMW Championship. Loud applause accompanied each introduction of past and current scholars during the opening ceremonies. Those of you old enough to remember Caddyshack might wonder at a connection. And yes, there is one. Ed Murray won an Evans Scholarship-full tuition and housing- to Northwestern University.

This prestigious program began in 1930 with two awardees. Now, more than two dozen caddies are awarded the four-year scholarship. All because Charles Evans wished to retain his amateur status. Non-attendees of the BMW Classic can learn about the fund by clicking here.

Added Bonus for Car Lovers

Scattered throughout the course are a myriad of new BMWs. There are at least two locations where spectators can take a seat but not a test drive. The beautiful colors and classic lines add to the sights and sounds of the tournament. Even those not in the market for a car are drawn in for a look. BMW has hit just the right note for marketing.

Final Tips

A myriad of shuttles ferry spectators to and from the course from remote parking lots. There is not a set schedule, more of a continuous run. So, wait times can vary. The only interior shuttle is located near the BMW Experience just below Hole #11. This shuttle provides a ride to the start of the course for spectators entering Gates 1,2, and 3. Two caveats: The shuttle is one way only and does not return passengers from the top of the course. Also, we found out the hard way that the shuttle stops at 1:00 p.m., perhaps the thought is walking downhill is easy.

There are plenty of port-a-potties and concession stands but the only water fountain I spied was adjacent to International Park. Rumor is another water fountain was in the area of Holes #6&7. I did not see that one.

The two merchandise tents are conveniently located. I know little about golf apparel, but logos were plentiful from Castle Pines Golf Club to BMW. Colors were mostly traditional. The neatest item was a throw blanket with the golf course map.

If you have tickets for the final two days, I hope you enjoy the experience as much as I did. I was impressed by both the organizers and the attendees. Perhaps this is just the start of a new spectator sport for me. Good luck to all the golfers and for those not lucky enough to attend, please enjoy the slideshow.

Five Years After Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

John Matherson

William R. Forstchen continues his John Matherson series with his 2023 release Five Years After. This series dealing with the aftermath of an apocalyptic event began with One Second After and remains a thoughtful, well written and well researched combination of fiction and fact. In Five Years After, the documented Raven Rock facility is used as a template for a shadow underground bunker capable of housing thousands of military and governmental personnel in case of an unnatural disaster.

Multiple Plot Lines

The author illustrates the harsh reality of modern civilization stepping backwards. Key elements of life such as First World Healthcare are hampered or even non-existent. In Five Years After, plague rears its’ ugly head. Treatable before, but now a death sentence for many. So, the small outpost in the mountains of North Carolina has a different type of battle in this series addition.

Meanwhile, protagonist John Matherson spends much of the novel underground. Literally. He is called back to Raven Rock on the request of a dying president. Apparently, a second, even more secret bunker connects with Raven Rock. This fictional extension runs under Camp David and down to Washington, D.C. Furthermore, the complex is controlled by a paramilitary group led by General Joshua Lawrence. Tension runs high between Matherson and Lawrence, two intellectuals with opposing views on the best way to proceed forward in the aftermath of destruction.

Five Years After- Fiction or Fact?

Forstchen is first and foremost a novelist. Thus, readers can differentiate between his works and a release such as Ted Koppel’s Lights Out. However, fact is at the core of the fiction. Raven Rock does exist. As do other underground installations large and small, governmental and commercial all across the United States of America.

Art imitates life. And a recurring theme in many recent fictional releases is one of the corruptions of power. Five Years After continues this theme. Furthermore, the novel poses the ultimate question to protagonist Matherson. His response is controversial. And reminds the reader the importance of electing the right person to power. Even then, decisions can cause collateral damage. Sometimes win-win does not exist. And in wartime, the best answer may come down to the least damage. Sobering thought for the warmongers.

Shadow of Doubt Book Review

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Latest in Scot Harvath Series

Brad Thor “shadows” current events with Shadow of Doubt. The latest thriller featuring the character Scot Harvath involves Russians, Ukrainians, Norwegians and Americans wreaking havoc across France. Harvath is once again ruthless as he seeks to avenge the death of his wife while trying to keep his fiancé alive.

Double Agents and Moles

The action begins in Paris with the killing of a veteran French Intelligence officer. Jean-Jacques Jadot has discovered evidence of Russian infiltration of a multitude of spy agencies and governmental cabinets. However, he is killed before he can share the information with his CIA counterpart.

Meanwhile, the author introduces the protagonist Harvath on his way to reunite with fiancé Sølvi Kolstad. Before they can celebrate, her task of debriefing a Russian defector is compromised by a breach in Norwegian security. Fortunately, Kolstad and Harvath manage to secure and whisk the asset off to the South of France.

Shadow of Doubt- Multiple Story Lines

Former lovers and now antagonists Karine Brunelle of The French Directorate General for Internal Security and Vincent Gibert a French homicide detective reluctantly work together to solve Jadot’s murder.

Naturally, the story lines overlap causing great confusion for the French. Along the way, Harvath involves the Ukrainians. Scenes are gruesome for those not accustomed to Thor’s writing.

Mirroring Reality

To a certain extent, Thor is mirroring current events. Hostilities between Russia and Ukraine continue and there is always a threat the ongoing war could blow up into World War Three. However, the fictional parallels fall wide of the mark with the supporting cast of countries. Furthermore, the reader will need a suspension of disbelief with regards to the Black Ops of Harvath and his crew going unpunished.

Recommendation for Shadow of Doubt

This latest thriller by Brad Thor will undoubtably become a best seller. Fast paced with a few surprises, the secondary plots add to the overall story. One wonders what may be next for Harvath and Kolstad. Shadow of Doubt makes great reading for an airplane ride, cross country travel via car or even a rainy weekend at home.

Ageless Aging Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

A Health and Wellness Self-Help Guide

Ageless Aging: A Woman’s Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan by Maddy Dychtwald with Kate Hanley is a self-help book with tremendous insights. Certainly, it helps that Maddy Dychtwald is an integral part of Age Wave along with husband Ken. Her access to various experts enriches the text.

Key Chapters in Ageless Aging

My favorite chapters in the guide are chapters four through six and chapter ten. Chapter Four is Fitness 2.0, the Silver Bullet. Exercise runs the gamut from stretching to marathons and triathlons. The connecting thread is movement. In this chapter the health benefits of staying fit are documented.

Chapter Five: Food is Fuel, Food is Medicine, Food is Pleasure covers the “why, what and when of eating” p. 102. Thus, good nutrition is at the forefront. Various “diets” are discussed as well as intermittent fasting. Plus, charts are provided showing the benefits of each type of diet. Finally, the Ageless Aging hacks at the end of the chapter provide tips for healthy eating.

Since good sleep still eludes me, I read Chapter Six: The Magic of Sleep out of order. It worked the first night and I hope to repeat the feat.

But the most important chapter to me was Chapter 10.

Chapter 10: Purpose and Connection

One of the key tenets of Ageless Aging is well-being for the individual. Purpose, having a meaningful life, and social connections with family and friends all factor into mental and physical wellness. One section hit home… Kindness Fosters Social Fitness. The author’s statement “Giving kindness reduces cortisol, blood pressure, and premature causes of death” (p. 248) is backed by three documented studies. Purpose provides meaning for life. And the social connections exceed an escape from loneliness. Connecting with people stimulates the brain too. Many problems in today’s society could be solved with purpose, connections, and above all showing kindness to others.

Ageless Aging Recommendation

Even though Ageless Aging is geared toward older women, I think all ages could benefit from reading the information. The financial chapter especially has great tips for women regardless of age. The book is well researched and provided new-to-me tips for healthier living. I have added this guide to my great gifts list. Find a copy today!

July 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on by Econogal

Time Flies

July 2024 was one of those months that flew by. Not much writing but plenty of good reading. Lots of pulling weeds and puttering around the garden. A few days with the grandkids and… lots of heat. I have lost count of the number of triple digit days. Luckily, cool spells have broken the super-hot days into runs of four or five. A solid month would be unbearable.

Politics in July 2024

Here in the United States of America, national politics is front and center. First, the assassination attempt on former president and current candidate Donald Trump was at the forefront of the news. Then, President Biden’s exit from the race after a disastrous debate and much lobbying by fellow politicians. I will not presume to announce his replacement since the Democratic Convention is in just a few weeks.

I will say that the two-party system has problems that need fixing. Furthermore, I trust in the vote. Those who are already claiming foul before Election Day even arrives need to read Nancy Coco’s Give Fudge a Chance just to see how silly they sound. November will be interesting, and I think the race is wide open. And whoever wins, I will respect the office of the president.

July 2024 In the Garden

So far, harvest from the July 2024 Garden is much improved over July 2023. Tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, cantaloupe, onions and peppers are thriving. Both tomatoes and cucumbers have been processed as well as enjoyed fresh. This year’s salsa will not need any supplementary produce from the farmer’s market.

Unfortunately, during the last few days of July 2024, both grasshoppers and squash bugs have made their presence known. So, the battle between gardener and pests begins. Perhaps the birds will come to the rescue once again.

In the Library

In addition to the books reviewed this month, I completed William Forstchen’s Five Years After and am mostly through Kristen Hannah’s The Women. Both are outstanding, although Crow Talk remains my favorite so far.

Kid’s Quilt

The first of the astronaut kid’s quilts was completed in July 2024. Considering a lack of a pattern, I like the finished product. It is sturdy and will hold up to the newest great-nephew as he grows and grows. As with all quilts my advice to my niece is to wash in cold water and hang to dry-but not in the sun.

How was your July?

Small Garden Style Book Review

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Design Guide

Isa Hendry Eaton and Jennifer Blaise Kramer combine to bring Small Garden Style: A Design Guide for Outdoor Rooms and Containers to the public. This is yet another 2020 release that I missed due to the restrictions of the pandemic. The gardening tips book is great for discovering one’s garden style.Cover of book Small Garden Style with white background and multiple small pots of various plants and a hand trowel

Focusing on the Small Garden

This how-to book starts off with a style quiz. After tabulating results, individual readers can skip to the section which describes them best. In my case, more than one style emerged from the quiz. And since by the time the quiz was over, I knew this book was a keeper, I ended up reading through all the styles.

The authors pay close attention to the function of the garden. Then the design flows. Almost every page has photos to illustrate the different styles. But it is more than a book full of pretty pictures. Small Garden Style serves as a textbook for those who truly want to learn about maximizing a small area for the greatest benefits.

Small Garden Design School

The second chapter in the book focuses on the five principles of design. Line& Space, Focal Point, Eye Candy, Layering & Repetition, and Contrast each earn several pages of explanation. Within the pages, photos are deconstructed in order to demonstrate the process. In addition to the tips and tricks, plant varieties in the photos are identified.

Plant Selection

More information on individual plants appears in the fourth chapter. The authors stress the importance of a High-to-Low Design. Trees represent the high points and naturally, ground covers stand in for the low points. Specific advice on how to layer plant heights, types and colors is found in this chapter.

 

Designer Tool Kit

The nuts and bolts of design is found in the final chapter, Designer Tool Kit. The homework of small garden style design is found in these pages. A yard will look professionally landscaped utilizing these tools and methods. Planning is the key to a lush looking landscape.

Recommendation for Small Garden Style

I love this book and have already put it to use at my house on the Plains. The high heat this summer has provided mixed results. New trees fair better if they can go into the ground earlier in the spring and the same holds true with perennials. A mid-June planting proves difficult. The techniques on color, number and repetition have yielded outstanding results. The chapter on container gardening also provided stunning arrangements. Small Garden Style is perfect for either the public or home library.

Return to 1968

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Assassination Attempt

My thoughts return to 1968 with the attempted assassination of former president and current candidate Donald Trump. I was quite young that year, a mere kindergartener. Yet I lived on a college campus where the political climate was heightened. So, my memories are memories and not just remembered stories.

1968-A Time of Conflict

For many readers, 1968 is so far in the past, knowledge comes from the history books. For those of us that lived through the year, the significance is key. Assassinations of Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy during the spring set the tone.

Anti-Vietnam war sentiments stirred and would boil over in the years to follow. Protests began on campuses across the United States and many other countries as well. Living in married student housing with my parents, most of the unrest seemed distant as we played with the other kids in the apartment complex. But I do distinctly remember two key things. Chants of “Hell no, We won’t Go” and much more sobering, the weekly counts of Vietnam deaths recited on the news.

Inequality in 1968

Discrimination based on skin color led to a fear of race wars. My parents were very progressive. As a result, I was somewhat ignorant of these tensions. And as soon as bussing ended desegregation in my school district, I was invited to, and attended, birthday parties regardless of the skin color of the birthday celebrant.

At the time I was oblivious to economics and social inequalities. We lived in campus housing. The furniture had plastic cushions and I shared a small room (think old dorm size) with my younger sibling. One bathroom, an eat-in kitchen with a chipped Formica table and a small living area. My parents did have their own bedroom. The entire place was not much bigger than some of today’s hotel rooms. If I was considered poor, I didn’t realize it.

Social Differences in 2024

I am no longer unaware of the various economic strata found in each country…even those embracing communism. So, I am grateful I live in the United States where the economy is mixed. A mixed economy has tenets of various economic models. The part that is capitalist allows those individuals that create and work hard and yes have luck, to move “upward.” And there is also a downward flow. Many times, a third generation cannot build on what the previous two have built.

Furthermore, mixed economies provide protection for those that cannot work due to extenuating circumstances. We need to face the reality that not all children are born with the same opportunities. In particular, are the many that are born with physical, mental, and environmental challenges.

Uncertainties Then and Now

On the surface a comparison between 1968 and 2024 is easy. But an in-depth look shows stark differences. Key is the age of the candidates. In 1968, the oldest candidate was the Democratic nominee aged 57 with the Republican counterpart 55. The 2024 election, at this time, has a 78-year-old and an 81-year-old. Is it time for a constitutional amendment regulating a maximum age similar to the minimum age?

Another major contrast is the current military is voluntary. There is not an active draft. The final difference is the national debt.

In 1968, the debt was 368 Billion which was 39% of the GDP. Current debt is just under 35 Trillion. And the debt to GDP ratio is 135%. From an economic point, this is unsustainable. Click here for an indepth comparison of debt from 1929 to the present.

Election of 2024

The United States of America holds presidential elections in November every four years and this is one of those years. Just under four months remain until Election Day. Anyone who is not registered to vote, I encourage you to sign up. Our right to vote is a fundamental freedom not found everywhere. It is a valuable right. Furthermore, take your vote seriously. Study the issues and the candidates. Then vote as YOU see best. Try not to let commercials and talking heads make the decision for you. Our balloting system of private voting provides everyone the ability to vote independently. I wish every country could enjoy the same right.

Crow Talk Book Review

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All in the Name

Crow Talk by Eileen Garvin is a library check-out published in 2024. To be honest, the author’s surname is the entire reason I picked it out. There are less than 20,000 people living in the United States with the same surname. And ancestors of my kids shared the name. (Our surname is shared by fewer than 2500 to give some perspective. And there are over 2,400,000 Smith’s in the country. But I digress.) Since the novel is outstanding, I am particularly grateful for the shared name.

This positive, uplifting story is built upon the subject of grief. Both heroine’s, Frankie O’Neill and Anne Ryan are dealing with the loss of a loved one. To compound things for Ryan, her son stopped speaking at the age of 3 ½ years. She blames herself for his problems since they manifested after the loss of her closest friend.

Building New Friendships

O’Neill is a loner and estranged from her surviving parent. She has also run afoul of the individual overseeing the completion of her master’s degree. The work revolves around the spotted owl. First, the young boy Aiden is attracted to the gangly outdoorswoman. Then his mother, homesick for Ireland with a marriage teetering on a precipice forges a friendship with O’Neill as well.

A beautiful area in a remote lakeside enclave is the setting. And by remote, the only access is via boat. Nature plays an important role in the bonding of the three characters. At the forefront is the plethora of birds with an injured young crow at the center. But bears and weather and other challenges of the wilderness are brought to life by the wonderful writing.

Crow Talk

Each chapter or section begins with information on birds. Many facts are focused on the crow, including their language-crow talk. O’Neill begins to pull herself together by chronicling the recovery of the injured crow. She is able to finish her paper on the owls only to fail once again. However, the research on the crow takes flight and she progresses on multiple fronts.

Crossroads

Meanwhile, Ryan is also at a crossroads. As her marriage deteriorates over the stress of a special needs child her new friendship provides the support needed to make the decision on what is best for Aiden. Her in-laws want him institutionalized. Both she and her husband Tim face many decisions.

Recommendation for Crow Talk

Eileen Garvin’s Crow Talk is the best book I have read this year. Even though the genres are totally different, this novel and the writer evoke the same feeling of awe that I encountered with Where the Crawdads Sing. The writing is compelling and brings the characters to life. Perhaps Crow Talk will also make it to the movie theatres. The novel certainly deserves many honors. I highly recommend the reading of this book. I plan to give copies as gifts.

Vortex Book Review

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FBI Favorites: Sherlock and Savich

My immediate thought after finishing Vortex by Catherine Coulter was power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. (My apologies to the descendants of Lord Acton for an inexact quote.) Following that, I began analyzing the writing itself, perhaps due to time spent editing my own writing earlier in the day. My conclusion was surprising.

Coulter is a master writer and Vortex is well written with no editorial problems. The plot is believable and the story flows. Yet, my sense of satisfaction upon completion is missing. And I am not sure why. Perhaps a lack of romance often found in her FBI thrillers. More likely, a feeling of forced involvement of series regulars.

Main Plot

The unsettling topic, a missing woman, is one with closure without hope. The protagonist, Mia Briscoe, is a journalist newly focused on the plight of a close friend, Serena Winters. Pictures discovered by yet another friend yield a clue to the men last seen near Serena before her disappearance.

Not surprisingly, her mission to discover what happened to Serena dovetails with her assignment of interviewing a young charismatic and powerful candidate for the position of New York City mayor. I was ok with this tie-in. But the additional backstory of FBI agent Tommy Maitland as the boyfriend of the missing girl and the subsequent interaction between long-time series heroine Agent Sherlock and Mia felt strained.

Vortex Subplots

Sherlock just happens to be in New York City to lend a hand in a case of a Black Widow and jilted lover-a psychopath murderess. So, she can easily switch her efforts to the main story line as a favor to Maitland. This is a refreshing change from all the subplots tying together.

Furthermore, the unique subplots continue with the storyline created for Sherlock’s husband Dillon Savich. A missing CIA agent and flash drive keep him busy. He aids and protects a co-team member, CIA agent Olivia Hildebrandt. The storylines do not merge even though the series characters bounce back and forth.

Forced Threads in Vortex

In addition to the involvement of Sherlock in multiple storylines, the forced relationships of the main characters troubled me. Does Mia’s boyfriend even need a place in the story? The relationship feels inconsequential as compared to the one between Olivia and the missing Mike.

Recommendation

I enjoyed Vortex and yet I am glad it was a library check-out. While the unique storylines did not bother me, they also did not do much for the overall book. One could even imagine two separate books. Furthermore, Savich and Sherlock working together always works better than when they go their separate ways. Longtime readers will enjoy but newcomers need to start with another book in the series.

June 2024 Wrap-Up

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In the Garden

Cherry Tree
30 year-old cherry tree

While June 2024 yielded many positives such as a bumper crop of cherries, the overwhelming takeaway was one of early summer heat. Multiple days of triple digit temperatures. Quite unpleasant when coupled with winds from the southwest, near or above 20 m.p.h. and the heart (and heat) of the summer is still to come. I sure hope we don’t break the all-time high this year.

Naturally, the heat means the salad greens in the garden are bolting. A few heads of lettuce will be left alone in order to produce seed. Then, the saved seed will be collected and saved for next year’s planting. I have great success with saved seeds of salad greens.

The tomatoes are producing many fruits, and the cucumbers are loaded with flowers. Melons are beginning to form. However, the garden is not receiving much rain, so the drip lines are hard at work. And the star of the June 2024 Garden, is the old cherry tree. A bumper crop from the nearly thirty-year old tree was unexpected. The late winter snows provided the perfect amount of moisture.

From Garden to Kitchen Table in June 2024

In addition to having plenty of greens for salads this month, the garden produced two batches of cherry jam, multiple quarts of cherries frozen for future use, a cherry pie and delicious low-sugar zucchini oatmeal muffins. Of course, cherries also topped oatmeal in the mornings and ice cream in the evenings. The best thing about a home garden is the freshness of the food. And the knowledge of no pesticides in our homegrown food.

Travel in June 2024

Weekend trips to Wyoming and the mountains of Colorado provided relief from the heat. Wyoming is a sparsely populated state and has much to offer. It will be interesting to see if the fairly recent discovery of the rare earth minerals needed to make computer chips changes the demographics.

I am torn about the discovery. It is good to not depend on outside sources for these important manufacturing materials. But the mining process is usually in the form of strip mining. Reclamation of the land after mining is difficult. Our reliance on computers is definitely a two-edged sword.

In the Library

The book reviews are approaching a more normal state. In fact, for the first time in a while, multiple reviews are waiting their turn to be published and at least one more remains unwritten. After a stretch of not liking many books, I have found a plethora of novels I find enjoyable as well as moving and motivational. A person’s mind frame definitely impacts happiness and so much more.

Politics in America- June 2024

Back in 2016, Chuck Lorre, one of the brains behind the Big Bang Theory posted one two syllable word on a “vanity” card following the national election. A simple “Uh-Oh.” I wonder what he would post after the recent debate between the current and former Presidents. I have faith in a system that has lasted almost 250 years and yet this election cycle wants to test that faith once again. So, I will continue to read, watch and educate myself about the political issues at hand. And I will vote in November.

Nine Bark

Deer Strolling at Dusk

Deer Strolling at Dusk

Summers at the Saint Book Review

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Summer Read

Mary Kay Andrews’ Summers at The Saint is an outstanding whodunnit just in time for summer reading. The veteran writer delivers once again with surprising plot twists, heartwarming characters and unexpected victims. So, if you need a good vacation read, find a copy of this page-turner.

The Saint is a family-owned resort along the Atlantic seaboard. The current general manager, Traci Eddings is the widow of Hoke Eddings. Since she grew up as an “Ain’t” and not a member of the high society social class frequenting The Saint, Eddings faces hostility from other members of the family. Except for her niece Parrish. The two are close allies.

Traci Eddings- Protagonist of Summers at The Saint

Widowed and childless, Traci Eddings is very close to Parrish. The younger Eddings never bonded with her stepmother and her birth mom has been missing from the scene for most of her life. So, the two women teaming up to stave off the red ink of operating the resort makes good business sense.

However, the financial woes stem from malfeasance. Thus, danger lurks for the two women and death strikes at The Saint resort once again. Traci’s memories of a tragic drowning from her first summer at the resort provide backdrop and a parallel story line. And secondary characters link the two plots.

Good vs. Evil in Summers at the Saint

Summers at The Saint presents a story of good versus evil. The many supporting characters are divided along this line in the sand. Furthermore, there are varying degrees of wrongdoing. And when tragedy strikes, characters on both sides of the spectrum suffer.

Since the story is contemporary in nature, drug use is a key factor in the storyline. However, embezzlement is at the core of the disastrous happenings occurring at the resort. Fortunately for Traci Eddings, new hires provide evidence of the misdeeds.

Wicked Good Twist

I truly enjoy a mystery containing an unexpected plot twist. Summers at The Saint is such a book. Perhaps other readers will have guessed how the past and present are linked. But, I did not. Andrews masterfully presents a plausible, yet unforeseen, turn-of-event melding the plot and the actions of the characters.

Furthermore, the character of Traci Eddings moves past death and grasps the hope of the future. A lesson for all seeking happiness. Summers at The Saint may make you cry, but the end is a “feel good” and full of positivity. This is great summer reading.

 

Reduced Sugar Zucchini Oatmeal Muffins

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Sunday Morning Muffins

This morning’s batch of Reduced Sugar Zucchini Muffins were delicious and more than half the batch was gobbled up. I adapted the recipe from the Nothin’ but Muffins cookbook compiled by Cyndi Duncan and Georgie Patrick. I have used this spiral bound cookbook for decades.

The zucchini bush I planted in the middle of the herb planter is producing already and somehow one got away from me. So, I cut the oversized fruit in half, peeled and grated it, yielding about 1 ½ to 2 cups.

Ever since reading the Case Against Sugar, I have made reducing sugar a priority. But I tweaked the recipe in a couple of other places too. I subbed walnuts for pecans, cut the salt dramatically and used olive oil. Also, my oatmeal was not quick-cooking just regular oats from Heartland Mill in Marienthal, Kansas. In theory these should all be healthy substitutions. However, the muffins did not taste healthy…they were decadent- a word I usually reserve for chocolate.

Equipment for Reduced Sugar Zucchini Oatmeal Muffins

Regular size 12 count muffin tin

Miniature size 12 count muffin tin

Large mixing bowl

Small bowl

Grater

Mixing Spoons and Measuring Cups and Spoons

Oven

Recipe for Reduced Sugar Zucchini Oatmeal Muffins

2 ½ Cups Flour

1 Cup Sugar

1 Cup Walnuts, chopped

½ Cup Oats, uncooked

1 TBS. Baking Powder

¼ Teas. Salt

1 Teas. Cinnamon

4 Eggs, slightly beaten

1 ½ – 2 Cups Shredded Zucchini

¾ Cup Olice Oil

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400° F. and grease muffin tins. In large bowl, mix flour, sugar, walnuts, oats, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Break eggs into small bowl and slightly beat then pour over flour mixture. Then add grated zucchini and olive oil. Just stir until all the flour mixture is incorporated. If flour does not mix in, add more zucchini. Batter will be somewhat stiff. Spoon into muffin tins. Bake large tin for fifteen to twenty minutes and small tin for five minutes less. Remove from oven when tops are golden brown. Sinfully delicious when warm-no butter or jam needed. Also great after the Reduced Sugar Zucchini Oatmeal Muffins have cooled. Enjoy!

Reduced Sugar Zucchini Oatmeal Muffins cooling on a wire rack.

Give Fudge a Chance Book Review

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Return to Mackinac Island

June is synonymous with blooming bushes and my thoughts turn to Mackinac Island with the reading of Give Fudge a Chance. This 2023 release by Nancy Coco is a delightful cozy mystery with plenty of suspects. Heroine Allie Mc Murphy squeezes time from her busy work schedule to solve the case-since one of the murders takes place at her hotel.

One Busy Lady

Allie Mc Murphy is juggling entries into the county fair, demonstrations of fudge making at the McMurphy, two suiters and two murders. The list does not all tie together by the end, leaving the reader wondering what is in store for the next release in the series.

Ms. McMurphy has gained some common sense from the beginning of the series. She now at least sends a text or leaves a voice mail for boyfriend and cop Rex Manning before heading into trouble. In Give Fudge a Chance, as the title alludes, there are roadblocks between Manning and McMurphy keeping the romance from reaching the next level.

Give Fudge a Chance Plot(s)

The romance/cozy mystery starts with two seemingly unrelated murders as well as a Grand Prize ribbon. By the conclusion the three story lines merge. The pace is quick and the settings in, around, and under Mackinac Island provide added interest. The smuggler’s tunnels are perfect for adding suspense.

The motive in Give Fudge a Chance traces to money and greed. And while one death may have been in the heat of the moment, the other was pre-meditated. And family and love interests cover for the murderer.

Furthermore, the author deftly weaves a current events theme into the book. Allie Mc Murphey’s grand prize fudge is attacked by the loser. Similar to the poor sports in the political arena in the United States, the long-time fair queen claims foul by cheating. Then she promptly divides the island with Team Christine signs popping up everywhere. Fortunately, in Give Fudge a Chance, the cheating claims have a hint of humor.

Recommendation

The Candy-Coated Mystery series is a fun summer read. I checked the paperback copy of Give Love a Chance out of my local library. And I will keep my eyes open for this summer’s release Three Fudges and a Baby. Cozy mysteries combined with a touch of romance are great for escaping the heat. Furthermore, the recipes in the book are great for anyone looking to add fudge to the summer picnic table. Lots to like about this series!

Garden Weeds

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Attacking the Weeds

Pulling garden weeds is a priority this week. Recent rains have loosened the soil. So, it is easier to pull. I dislike using chemicals, thus the manual attack on Virginia creeper, bindweed and volunteer trees after each good rain. Plus, many other weeds. Too many to name.

Bindweed

Bindweed overtaking garden bed of chrysanthemums.The creeper and bindweed get top billing and first attack due to their invasiveness. The bindweed is in a few spots in the lot. Unfortunately, it is close to overtaking one of the front beds. My attempts to eradicate it are foiled by the persistence of the weed. Additionally, the bed is difficult to weed because ants have made the area into a home.

I have field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) in my yard. Some years I think I am getting ahead of it. But not this year. My absence from the garden last fall is taking a toll. With the exception of a few vines on the lot, the bindweed has not begun flowering. I hope to wrestle control before the white flowers appear.

Virginia Creeper

Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is favored by some as a plant. But I place it into the garden weeds category. I wear long sleeves, long pants and gloves when I battle this five-leaved vine. Since I am sensitive to the oils in the plant, the covering keeps me from receiving a skin rash. This is one of those garden weeds that can cause allergic reactions and sickness if the berries are eaten. So, even though they provide beautiful color in the fall with the leaves turning orange and crimson, I dislike this particular vine.

Virginia Creeper climbing up an evergreen tree.

Volunteer Trees as Garden Weeds

A side effect of planting many trees years ago is that the trees are now mature enough to produce seeds and thus seedlings. Last year the Chinese elm was the greatest nuisance. This year both red bud and oak trees are popping up everywhere.

Occasionally, a seedling escapes my notice for a year or two. When that occurs, I try to find a new home for the tree. I particularly have luck transplanting the cedars and junipers. If the volunteer is in a good place for a tree, it is protected so growth can naturally occur.

Therefore, a beautiful Shademaster honeylocust is part of the northern boundary of my property. The nursery claimed these trees were seedless. But my trees all produce large brown seed pods. And one new tree about ten foot tall.

My Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) continues to thrive and is determined to drop seedlings when the squirrels miss an acorn or two. Unlike the Gambel Oak (Quercus Gambelii) which are known as scrub oak, the Bur Oak stands as a single specimen. Planted almost thirty years ago, my Bur Oak is taller than my house. I don’t really have a spot for a second one.

Few Garden Weeds in Big Garden

The Raised Row Technique of gardening continues to tamp down on weeds. I highly recommend owning the book by the Competti’s. For the review click here. The mulch also keeps the soil from drying out and makes the weeds easy to pull even without a rain.

Raised Row Vegetable Garden

Winter’s Child Book Review

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A Favorite Series

Winter’s Child by Margaret Coel was released in 2016. The author announced upon release that the novel would be the last in the Wind River mystery series. And unlike the recently reviewed Museum of Lost Quilts, Winter’s Child appears to be the finale.

For those unfamiliar with the series, Coel uses the Wind River Indian Reservation as the setting. The protagonist is Father John O’Malley, a recovering alcoholic sent to the wilds of Wyoming for one last chance.

Indian lawyer Vicky Holden also has a starring role in the series and Winter’s Child focuses on the legal adoption of a five-year-old white child by an Arapaho couple that discovered her on their porch when she was a newborn.

Story Line of Winter’s Child

Vicky Holden braves a winter storm to attend a meeting with area lawyers at the request of Clint Hopkins a solo practitioner who specializes in adoptions. A man who keeps most findings in his memory instead of written down, Clint is run down leaving the meeting. And leaving a mystery for Vicky to solve.

Side Story

Running parallel to the main theme is the research of Shannon O’Malley, niece of Father John. Shannon’s visit to Wyoming includes delving into the history of two white children kidnapped by Indians many years ago. One of the girls became an Arapaho through marriage. Shannon hopes to interview descendants while also recovering from a romantic break-up.

Ending a Series with Winter’s Child

Naturally, Coel manages to tie the story lines together. She also tries to wrap-up the longstanding theme of forbidden love. Even though the mystery in Winter’s Child came to a satisfying conclusion, I am not as happy with the novel signaling the end of the series. Too many unanswered questions with respect to the relationship between the lawyer and the priest.

May 2024 Wrap-Up

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May Equals Hawaii Weather

May is one of my favorite months here on the High Plains of the United States and May 2024 is par for the course. We often joke that we are experiencing Hawaii weather. Not too hot and not too cold with afternoon rain showers sprinkled in.

Outdoor chores are once again at the forefront of the schedule. Quilting takes a backseat to pulling weeds, planting annuals and watching the veggies’ flower. Reading is often done on the back porch. And travel is somewhat limited because one loves the weather at home.

Birds, Bees and Butterflies

Mystery Bird

Sophie the cat is restricted on how much time she spends outdoors. This is prime nesting for the birds both permanent and passing through. Birders find so many varieties to spot in this migration corridor. The hummingbirds return for a few weeks along with the robins and finches. Meanwhile, the grackles and turkeys tolerate the invaders.

Various types of bees are pollinating perennials, annuals and weeds-oops I mean wildflowers. A few giant bumblebees but mostly small honeybees’ flit around the garden. They are joined by a variety of butterflies, yellow, orange and white. The milkweed will bloom soon, so I hope to see monarchs in the mix. Fortunately, the miller moths have not been bad this year.

Plantings Around the Garden in May 2024

We just added one tree this year. Family members gifted me a linden tree as a remembrance to my father. Other plantings include perennials such as Blue Mist Spirea (Caryopteris x clandonensis), Sunset Glow Penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius) and the Daylilly Happy Returns. And plenty of annuals in planters as well as here and there in the beds.

The vegetables planted in late April are thriving. As I discussed in the April 2024 Wrap-Up, I look to my oak tree to know when to plant. Once again, the old bur oak knows when the winter weather is gone. Much more reliable than a calendar!

Each tomato plant has blossoms. As do the melons and cucumbers. And even the potato plants. Perhaps harvest will begin by the Fourth of July. Meanwhile, plenty of fruit is on the cherry trees. I forecast both pies and jam for this year’s harvest.

May 2024 harvest included lettuces, onions and herbs. This is about normal. Lacking a greenhouse, I cannot speed up the harvest any more than I have.

My one disappointment is a lack of peony blooms this year. I am not sure why. So, I will research possibilities and try to take action this fall.

May 2024 In the Library

Reading and reviewing books is picking up again. In addition to binge reading Baldacci and Woods one weekend, I reviewed Willow and The Museum of Lost Quilts. I am about three chapters from finishing Margaret Coel’s Winter’s Child. Somehow, I missed when this final edition to the Wind River series was released. Look for the review next week.

May 2024 Wrap-Up

A trip to Louisville Kentucky commences on the last day of May. Churchill Downs will be much less crowded than the first weekend of the month. But the racing will be just as exciting. Friends and family will join me for a day at the races. Until next month, find happiness each day.

 

Nature at Work