Closer to the finish.
I finished up the rivers and the shorelines, added Central Park and St. Patrick’s Cathedral – now I have to fill in the neighborhoods, as well as Union Square and a couple of other parks. I find this kind of thing so absorbing and stimulating, while at the same time, very calming. There’s nothing I love more at the moment than working on this puzzle with Don playing music and singing at the other end of the room.
I’m about a hundred and twenty pages into Winter Solstice and I’m really enjoying it. Pilcher is a master of describing time and place. Her characters are complex and beautifully written. Someone suggested in a comment here that this book was like a Hallmark movie. To me? With all due respect, not one bit. Hallmark movies are meant to be superficial and surface level, with impossibly pretty actors and shallow plot devices, because they’re a form of visual escape, just like Harlequin romances were a form of escape for me when I was younger. I get it. I’m not at all into those movies now, but I understand their appeal.
Pilcher, on the other hand, is an excellent writer and her books have far, far more depth. There’s no comparison. There are elements of romance of course, but they’re character driven and beautifully written. I hadn’t read one of her novels in several years and I forgot what a pleasure it is to be in her hands. All this is to say, I love her books. This is just what I need at the moment – interesting, complicated characters, beautiful descriptions of the English and Scottish countrysides, cottages, houses, the streets of London, and characters who are forced to face heartbreak and change and move on in the hopes of something better. Characters, I might add, who have weaknesses, regrets, and resilience in the face of the unknown.
The forecast for Monday and Tuesday keeps changing. Yesterday: 1-3 inches of snow with 1-3 inches overnight. This morning: 1-3 inches of snow with 3-5 inches overnight. Apparently, the forecast models keep changing. So, we won’t really know anything definite until sometime tomorrow.
We’ve been looking through a book of Jeff Bridges’ photographs, all taken on movie sets with his Widelux camera. Some of them are from Crazy Heart, which we saw when it first came out. Bridges won the Oscar for his role. So we rented it from Amazon Prime last night and I’m so glad we watched it again. He’s brilliant in his role; heartbreaking, touching, dissolute, sad and, in the end, inspiring. Also wonderful – Maggie Gyllenhaall, Colin Farrell, and Robert Duvall. It’s so damn good.
Don will pick up groceries today. I’m forcing myself to clean the bathroom. Then we’ll do all the disinfecting, etc. Then, I hope to hear some music from my husband. I sang to him last night. I don’t sing a lot these days but I sang onstage, in church, and professionally for years. When Don catches me singing while working in the kitchen, he asks for more. What a good guy he is!
Really, really cold out there. But sunny.
Stay safe.
Happy Saturday.
I love the vintage illustration that your puzzle is made from. Also, it’s good to hear your take on the Pilcher novel. I read some of hers so many years ago that the Hallmark comparison made me wonder if they had been as good as I remembered. Now I’ll definitely add it to my electronic TBR pile.
Good for you two to be able to sing and enjoy music at home. I really do envy you there, as my voice and ears have let me down in old age. I do miss music and being able to make it.
We love to make music here, though Don does most of that.
Stay safe, Shanna
i’m wondering if your familiarity with the city helps some in putting this puzzle together …? whatever, it looks great.
that you and don get to hear each other sing is wonderful. :)
good luck with the grocery run and the weather.
here? will go get groceries and then deliver them. we’re in for rain (which will turn into ice … ugh), then maybe three inches of snow starting this afternoon.
also, had the follow-up mri yesterday. won’t learn results until maybe the middle of next week. i am thankful the procedure went relatively well (i didn’t throw up this time) and that the technician played jimmy buffett for me, loud via headphones, because once again someone dropped the ball … despite my request, there was no short-acting sedative to help me get through the pain and bit of claustrophobia that i have. at every place there’s been a problem … took four weeks for my doctor to tell me (at an appointment i’d requested because muscle relaxant pills she ordered by phone helped exactly 0%) that my back was fractured, another eight days after they got the mri results to tell me it was broken in four places. when someone called to tell me the doctor wanted me to have vertebroplasty, i asked what that was and she said “i don’t know. i’m looking it up as we speak. you research it, too”. hearing that news six weeks to the day of my x-rays, then getting scolded a few weeks ago by someone at my doctor’s office that i’d “waited too long … vertebroplasty can only be done in the first six weeks” (well, who took those six weeks away from me? plus, i had already called to say i don’t feel right about that procedure). i had to ask about getting a brace, what restrictions to follow, etc. even to ask recently about getting follow-up images to see how i’m healing, if it’s time to start physical therapy, etc. i could give more examples, but you get the point. everywhere i’ve been for this there’s been a problem in me getting necessary information and in them having/following a protocol of care (surely i’m not the first person they’ve seen with a broken back). i kind of hesitate saying this because i make mistakes, we’re all human and i know health care workers are extra-stressed because of covid-19, but i was walking around with a broken x 4 back for four weeks without a brace (something i had to ask about) when someone there knew it and didn’t get that important information to me. i don’t want to put bummer news here, but i just did so i can say i hope you all are healthy and never have the need, but if you do have any health issues, get all your questions answered, advocate for yourself as i’ve had to do. also get copies of your test results, document everything and if need be, contact the patient rights advocate and write a letter of complaint to your doctor, their boss, state board of medical examiners ….
thanks for listening and for caring. xo
hope you all stay safe, well and warm. and have a good day!
kathy in iowa
to clarify … my doctor had results of the x-rays for four weeks before telling me there was “one compression fracture and maybe another one … small, not significant” (later mris showed four) … and i only found that out because i made an appointment. ):(
anyway, onward. better days are ahead for us all!
kathy in iowa
There’s no excuse for that. None!
so
agree. thanks, claudia.
hope you and don are having a good day!
kathy in iowa
xo
Oh Kathy! What a horrible experience you’ve had. My mother in law had vertebroplasty several times for spinal fractures. They helped her so much. I’m sorry you weren’t able to have the procedure.
I’m a retired RN and I can imagine this pandemic has stressed the whole medical system but still no excuse for what sounds like very sloppy care.
I am sending healing thoughts and prayers your way.
Oh, kathy! So sorry. I can’t remember, but was there one specific incident that happened when you actually broke your back?? I know it has been going on for quite a while, but I don’t remember one specific incident that occurred, if that was the case. I hope you ask to speak to a clinic manager so it can be documented. I have learned we all have to advocate for ourselves and our loved ones in the health care maze. Know we are all thinking of you. Be CAREFUL on the ice!!!!
hej, chris k in wisconsin.
thanks very much!
for two or maybe three years now, i’ve taken twice-yearly shots that were to prevent bone loss. when last checked, my osteoporosis doctor said it was helping my hip bones, but not my spine (no other reason known except that bones in various body parts are all different and so respond differently to medication). i started on monthly bone-building shots a couple weeks ago. takes a year to help, i guess, but i hope my next dexa bone density test (in april) will show improvement!
though i wondered if it was from moving a box of cat litter for a person (through my job) or maybe that i fell on ice last february, my osteoporosis doctor said the compression fractures most likely happened because of the osteoporosis. he said something worrisome … that it could happen from something as ordinary as sneezing (sneezing!) or hitting a pothole, stepping wrong off a curb … … though i’ve had some long moments otherwise and i have to be more mindful of my movements in the world, i am not going to give into fear. i’m going to keep my faith in God.
and yes, be careful on ice! hope you do the same and stay well, warm and safe. also that you didn’t get much snow last week and that you can see your little granddaughter soon.
thanks again, chris.
kathy in iowa
hej, marilyn schmuker …
i am happy that vertebroplasty helped your mother-in-law.
thanks for your good wishes and prayers. much appreciated.
hope you and your family are well, safe.
kathy in iowa
Oh Kathy…I had no idea all the stress and complications you have been under. I have no excuses for anyone, sounds like your doctor has failed you. I hope the MRI results will give you a way forward in the healing process. Wishing you a peaceful weekend. Sending healing thoughts and prayers. ;)
thanks much, donnamae.
there’s more to the story with my doctor and the mri place up in minneapolis and my local osteoporosis doctor’s office also dropped the ball, too … but enough complaining (for now anyway). with all the pain, walking around/working/etc. for weeks with a badly-broken back and no brace or medical guidance (despite my seeking help within hours of it happening) and ball-dropping, i am grateful that i am not paralyzed. i give thanks to God alone for that.
how are you? did you get lots of snow early last week? it brought us thirteen inches of snow. more is on the way tonight. hope you and your family are well and safe!
thanks again.
kathy in iowa
It helps a little, but it’s from a very old print, so things have changed a lot since then.
I would think about changing doctors, Kathy, though I know that’s a hassle. But really, there’s no excuse for negligence at every turn. One screw up? Okay. It can happen to anyone. But everything you’ve listed? No. That’s irresponsible. They are not providing care or giving solutions.
Stay safe, my friend.
thanks again, claudia.
i have thought about that … switching doctors. because it wasn’t just her and her team … the mri place in minneapolis and here both messed up in various big and small ways, as did my osteoporosis doctor … which makes me think is the entire health care system dropping the ball because they’re all so overwhelmed about covid-19?? for that reason, and because i liked my doctor before, i will be having a conversation with my doctor about these problems before deciding about switching. i won’t be reckless about my health or healthcare and won’t forget about the times i’ve been angry and scared (and felt like a canoe slowly drifting out to sea while all the doctors, etc. stood on the shore and watched), but i also believe in communication, giving people second chances (again, without being reckless or stupid about it) and so will talk with my doctor first, see the response i get and then decide if i need to find a new one. ugh.
thanks for listening!
hope the grocery stuff went well, that you and don are having a good night and won’t get much snow. stay safe, well and warm.
kathy in iowa
xoxo
So funny you would mention Hallmark movies In December I watched Hallmark movie online called Christmas in Vermont (didn’t finish it). Lo and behold there was a quiltshop. Imagine my disappointment to learn that the movie was filmed mostly around Buffalo, NY. Wasn’t even filmed in Vermont. Had to laugh at myself. I know films aren’t always filmed on location. I don’t know if you have heard of the Holderness Family. They did a parody about the Christmas Hallmark movies. It is kind of funny. I hope you don’t mind I am including a link here if you are interested. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CANOM5G1mI
Just finished a book yesterday called The Lost and Found Bookshop by Susan Wiggs. The book was a nice calming book compare to solving murders that I usually read.
I am now reading a book by Tom Rinaldi titled “The Red Bandanna. It is about a fearless choice, about a crucible of terror and the indomitable spirit to answer it. Examining one decision in the gravest situation, it celebrates the difference one life can make. ( I copied this from the jacket sleeve).
Most films that are filmed on location are filming in a location other than the real one. It has to do with ease of filming, tax breaks, the whole nine yards.
Thanks for sharing your reading matter, Trina!
Stay safe.
I looked up the author you are talking about and found three. I would love to read such a book! What is her first name?
Rosamunde Pilcher, Jan.
Stay safe!
Rosamunde Pilcher I love HER and I read Winter Solstice almost every winter, I am now close to being the age of the main lady character as well as the Main Character of The Shell Seekers which I chose for my book club to read in March.
I’m sure I’ve read Winter Solstice. I think I’ve read almost all of her books. Perhaps I need to re-read. I need a good comfort book right now.
It’s a wonderful gift to be able to sing well. You and Don are blessed. Music is such good therapy. We have been turning off tv more and listening to music lately. My husband can play a little guitar and I love to hear him play….until he breaks out House of the Rising Sun and tries to sing (badly)!
I must go clean my bathroom too. I’ve been putting it off.
Stay safe
You’ll be proud, Marilyn. I actually DID clean the bathroom. I put it off frequently as it’s my least favorite chore.
Stay safe.
I have been a Rosamund Pilcher fan for many years, and have read her books over and over again, for all the reasons you mention. She is a beautiful writer. (As someone who actually does watch Hallmark movies, there is no comparison to Pilcher!)
Exactly!
Thanks, Sherry.
Stay safe.
Bonjour Claudia,
I love Rosamund Pilcher. I read Winter solstice when it was released (some years ago) and I re-read it last summer. I also like September and “Les pêcheurs de coquillages” ( i do not know the english title) her best book in my point of view.
Like yours our days look all alike. We long to see and embrace our daughter and grand son. Hoping to see them in spring. Hope is the essence of life.
Bon dimanche mon amie.
I think you’re speaking of The Shell Seekers, Helene. One of her most popular books.
I think I read that one and maybe September, but to tell the truth, I can’t remember!
Stay safe, Helene.
When I had first heard about the Winter Solstice, someone compared it to a Hallmark movie, and quite frankly, that turned me off. But hearing what you said…I think I’ll put it on my TBR list.
Making great progress on the puzzle. I am curious…like Kathy…do you think your familiarity with the city has made it easier for you to put it together?
Snow starting this afternoon into tomorrow. I think it’s the same storm that’s going to hit you. Stay safe! ;)
Only in the broadest terms. I recognize Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, etc. but anyone would be able to figure out where those pieces go. The city has changed a great deal since the original print was made.
Stay safe, Donna!
As one who has watched Hallmark movies, I would have to also say there is absolutely no resemblance in any way, shape, or form to a Pilcher novel. There can really be no comparison made. For me, Hallmark movies merely provide background noise and for when I need to quiet the mess going on in the world and calm the strains from the news going on in my head. They are formula from beginning to end, and serve that purpose so you don’t have to think. Sadly, the past few years I have needed that element. So very glad you are enjoying re-visiting that lovely book. Her way to make the words come alive is just beautiful.
Our snow is supposed to start late this afternoon and last through the morning. It will pass and we will move on. Sounds like more at the end of next week. I just have to keep remembering that we are making our way to the other side so we can see the flowers again! Can’t wait!! Take care.
Yes. And soon we’ll be into February, one more step toward spring!
Thanks Chris.
Stay safe.
What songs are your favorite to sing? Perhaps you and Don would perform a duet? I know we would love to hear you both !! I love Pilcher’s books for many of the same reasons you do. They are a joy to read. Thanks as always for all you share. Stay safe and warm!
I like most music. I’ve sung most genres (except opera.) But I spent a lot of time performing in musical theater, so that’s my first love.
Stay safe, Janet!
Good work on the puzzle. Looks great! We may get a bunch of snow too but how much is not sure. I have got the snowblower gassed up and ready to go!
Stay safe and warm!
Yes, ours is ready to go, as well! We’ll just have to wait and see.
Stay safe, Ellen.
I love a book I can lose myself in and Pilcher does that for me also. Oh that was such a good movie, ‘Crazy Heart’. I watched a movie last night on HBO Max I enjoyed. ‘the little things’ with Denzel Washington, Rami Malek and Jared Leto. Kept me really engaged through the whole movie. Stay warm and safe. Hugs!
We don’t have HBO Max, though we may get it eventually. Stay safe, Linda!
Knowing that you enjoy all things vintage, books, and your puzzle of old New York, I thought that you might enjoy reading the Gaslight Mysteries by Victoria Thompson. They are fiction and are about solving murders around 1899. There are about 8 books about the various neighborhoods in New York. I tore through them.
I love this all — but what I love most is that you sang to Don and how he loved it and asked for more. BIG SMILE!
He always says I’m the singer in the family, but he’s too modest. He’s pretty damn good!
Stay safe, Jeanie.