We are cocooning here at the cottage. No news. No anything that will remind us of what just happened. Even so, that doesn’t seem to stop me from waking up in the middle of the night in a panic. Then I have to try to calm myself enough to try to fall asleep again.
The fact that so many people think of this as just another Democrat/Republican battle is mind-boggling. I don’t care about whether he is a Republican. I do care that he is the most dangerous man ever elected to the highest office in this country. And the most unqualified.
Anyway, I don’t want to linger on that, though it is surely on everyone’s mind.
I had to close comments yesterday after the tone of some of the comments went in a direction that was teetering on the edge of non-civil. I figured everyone had had more than enough time to have their say. We’re all very emotional right now, I get it, but we can be civil to each other. My rules about comments are clearly stated in the footer of this blog. It’s been there since I started blogging. I’ll quote:
Also, I love receiving comments! I do, however, reserve the right to delete any comment that is in poor taste, offensive or is verging on spam. It’s my blog. Thanks!
I deleted only one comment yesterday. That particular commenter called me a name. Let’s be clear: you don’t get to visit my home on the web and call me names. You also don’t get to call other people names when we are having a discussion in the comment section. I wouldn’t allow it in my real home. I would ask you to leave. And I won’t allow it in my virtual home. There were certainly other viewpoints represented in yesterday’s comments and that’s fine. I know there will be dissension on a topic such as this one, one where we find the country deeply divided. But if you can’t find a way to write that comment without resorting to name-calling along with the equivalent of shouting, then you don’t get to play. Simple as that.
I just checked the total number of comments that have been left on this blog since it began. Over 104,000. And I think I’ve deleted about 4, maybe 5, comments in all of that time: 8½ years. There is only one post where I asked for no dissenting comments and that is my right. And you honored that request.
So when you accuse me of deleting any comment that represents a disagreement with my point of view – you’re simply wrong.
I like to deal in facts.
Thank goodness, the majority of my readers are passionate, but kind. They find a way to make their point while respecting those to whom they are responding.
And for that, my friends, I thank you with all of my heart.
On we go:
This arrived in yesterday’s mail. Number six in my collection. I can’t get enough of these editions that were illustrated by Russell H. Tandy from 1930 -1949. The colors are so vivid, and the period details make this girl happy.
Here they are on the shelf.
Speaking of Nancy Drew, can you see the second book from the end on the right – The Mystery at the Moss-Covered Mansion ? A while back I bid on this book while on eBay. It arrived in the mail. I eagerly took it to the bookshelf, whereupon I promptly realized that I already had a copy. Whoops!
This encouraged me to write up a list of the titles I have, which I now keep in my wallet.
Anyway, here’s the duplicate:
Another cover illustration by the inimitable Russell H. Tandy.
It’s in good condition, with modest wear on the dust jacket. Considering its age, it looks great.
Let’s have a giveaway! And a book is my favorite thing to give away. A vintage book? Even better. Maybe this will start your very own Nancy Drew collection.
I’ll pick a winner from the comments on this post. You don’t need to tell me you’re interested. Just comment as you would on any given day.
Of course, if you’re not interested, let me know that, too, so I can ensure that it goes to someone who really wants it.
Happy Thursday.
Good Morning Claudia,
I love the illustrations on the Nancy Drew books. And the 1930s and 40s has always held a fascination for me. I would love to have cookbooks from that time period. I need to go through my books. I have too many and if we end up moving I don’t want take any that does not interest me. So please don’t put me in for the book.
I just realize what I said. I didn’t mean that Nancy Drew doesn’t interest me. I loved reading Nancy Drew books when I was young. Am I putting a foot in my mouth? :)
Nah! I understood!
Cookbooks from that period would be such a great thing to collect, Trina!
Happy Thursday.
The “I’m not going to read your blog” responses always surprise me. Why do people think they need to agree with someone 100% of the time to get along? Is it so threatening to read a different perspective and just think about it a bit?
Thank you for offering the Nancy Drew book. I have a my own packed away somewhere so please exclude me from the giveaway.
Adding…
thank you for writing about the election and creating a safe, respectful place to discuss it.
You are most welcome.
You’re welcome, Jay.
As for the responses, anyone who has read this blog during this presidential campaign surely knew what my reaction to the election would be. They were spoiling for a fight. xo
Hi Claudia — no need to enter me in the giveaway — I thought you’d like this commentary on the election: http://johnpavlovitz.com/2016/11/09/heres-why-we-grieve-today/
Thank you, Sarah. I will definitely give it a read.
I read this on facebook and have forwarded to everyone I knew was in the same mindset. We need time to grieve.
Claudia, Who would not want to win that beautiful book:)?
Although, I don’t agree with you politically speaking, I still respect you and love the blog. Thanks.
And thank you, Terri.
I have wonderful memories of reading Nancy Drew books … and Trixie Belden and Cherry Ames.
Yesterday was a day of shock and sadness. Today is the day for looking for ways to channel feelings into action!
Exactly. We move forward. We fight for what it right and for those who need us to fight for them.
On to a new day ~ where I’m going to turn off my laptop now and get on with my day…take a shower, get dressed, put fresh sheets on the bed…then take a walk in this glorious sunshine and just breathe. I need to get away from social media. I have found that my heart is racing. Not good. I would love to have to the chance to win your Nancy Drew book! Loved those books as a kid…read every one of them.
We’re taking a walk later. Feeding some horses. If Scout was still here with us, I would be cuddling her right now.
Good morning Claudia and Don. I’m staying away from the news and not reading any political articles. I’m trying to let my mind and heart process what is happening to our country. Thanks for the opportunity to win the Nancy Drew book. I have such fond memories of getting these books from the book mobile.
Oh, the bookmobile! My favorite place to go when I was a kid!
I loved the bookmobile! Thanks for bringing back such a great memory, Kathy. :)
You’re welcome, Sherry!
Thanks for this wonderful giveaway. Nancy Drew is my heroine and the books gave me great enjoyment and pleasure.
You are very welcome, Anne.
Oh, I would love to have it.
I’m about 20 minutes from the White House right now. Needless to say,
this is not Orange territory.
I thought Hillary’s speech yesterday was amazing. I don’t know how
she kept her composure. And Barack was just being himself, the bigger person.
Me? I’m attempting to somehow tell myself that I can deal with this.
We will see.
Here’s a hug for you
(((((((((Claudia)))))))))))
You are not alone.
Monica
Sending you a hug, too! We will move forward and fight.
OMG I LOVE Nancy Drew! When I was a kid I had a lot of her books, and would borrow others from the library. My own books were lost in one of the many floods that happened where I grew up. I still borrow them from the library every once in a while, to make me smile.
Did you read the history of the Nancy Drew books that was written a few years back? The title escapes me now (of course it does), but it was just so interesting.
As a kid, I *always* wanted my own “roadster.” :-)
As an aside, I think anyone who calls someone a name in comments on a blog is a coward. Good for you for not putting up with it.
No, I didn’t! I’ll have to look for that book, Bridget!
I love the word ‘roadster’ – it reminds me of that car show I went to. There were roadsters on display there and I loved them!
P.S. I wasn’t using the flood comment for sympathy votes – it’s just what happened to my childhood collection …
Heartbreaking, though. Losing anything in a flood is so painful!
Organize. Organize. Organize.
A large group of women in my community are organizing already. We will not stand for anyone to be deprived of their human rights.
Good for you! I’m with you!
Yes, bad behavior by anyone is not tolerated in my home. I have snapped at my adult children for some language. Never to repeated again may I say! Yesterday I re-read the six wives of Henry VIII, he really only executed two of his wives so all in all not so bad. I am now reading Mary Queen of Scots by Antonia Fraser. Haven’t read in years. This will keep my mind occupied for a bit.
Reading is a good escape, Mary, and one that we all need right about now.
I love the look of those old illustrations, too. takes me back to a simpler time. It did get a bit testy, yesterday, but name calling? I wouldn’t stand for it either! Loved Garrison Keillor’s take on the election, in the Washington Post.
Such a nice giveaway, but my creepy-crawly Florida bugs would, too…so, let’s not tempt them.
I’ll have to read that. I think I read a portion of it yesterday, posted by someone on Facebook.
I love anything vintage, especially a book! How generous. I read your blog everyday and share so many of your well written views. If we stick together we’ll get through this somehow. Stay cozy. :-)
I will. Still in my pajamas (gasp!) but I’ll get moving soon!
I am looking for reasons to smile while I get my anger organized into action. I found one reading the comments from yesterday. The reader who declared herself gone from your blog because she held a different view of the election result just kept posting and posting and posting. Smile!
I know! Ironic, don’t you think? xo
Nancy Drew started my love of mysteries. By the time I was 21, I owned every one that had been published. It was 2 years later that I gave my collection to the library that was on the base we were stationed at. They received a total of $15 a year for new books. I could not take them to our new assignment and was glad that they might instill the love of reading, and mysteries, to a young child.
Thank you for giving us a chance to start another collection or help us to give the love of Nancy Drew to someone.
Hugs to you and Don!
Good for you for sharing those books with a host of future readers, Debbie.
Nancy Drew was my first book heroine. I have read all of the books, borrowed from the library when I was young, 78 years ago now. I have always been a fan of thriller and suspense books. I would love to have this book. So many books, so little time. I think I will order a Nancy Drew from the library, just for a fun, simple read and a reminder of how things used to be.
Sort of the perfect thing to read right about now, Carol!
Your recent posts about the Nancy Drew series have gotten me interested in rereading them. This book would be a good start.
I think we can all use a dose of Nancy Drew – a simpler time, for sure.
I’m not watching any news shows, either. It’s HGTV and The Food Channel for me. I am skimming Facebook, and not reading anything political. My numbness has worn off, and I now have a lump in my throat, and feel sad to my bones. I just looked at some of the comments from yesterday, and I was struck with the comment saying our lives will not change, and that she is choosing to be happy. I’m not surprised that your response was that you don’t vote only for yourself. Neither do I. I like to advance my own interests, but I am also concerned with the “greater good.” I am worried about our LGBTQ friends, the non-white, non-Christian among us, the poor who will lose their insurance. These are the things that make me grieve so. We have elected a 70-year-old man-child, who is not very bright. That pretty much guarantees our lives will not be unchanged.
I just used those words this morning in a conversation with my sister – the greater good.
Our lives will most definitely be changed and so will the lives of those around us.
Claudia:
I make a daily visit to your blog because I enjoy reading your conversations and daydreaming through your photography. I’ve never commented on any blog before. My comment today will not focus on politics (be still my heart!) but instead I’ll talk about Nancy Drew.
I grew up in a rural village of Ohio. My best friend and I read (many times over) every Nancy Drew book our school’s little library contained. We absolutely could not wait for when the Bookmobile would arrive because it was a magical book world on wheels for us. At every visit we picked the shelves clean of every Nancy Drew book available and then anxiously await the next visit so we could repeat the process!
Life and miles pulled us in opposite directions but my childhood friend and I have reconnected as middle-aged adults. We don’t get to talk often, but when we do, we simply “take up where we left off.” Our conversations often replay the cherished visits to the Bookmobile and how much we loved Nancy Drew books: from the covers to all the riches in between!
You’ve inspired me to seek out some volumes for myself and begin collecting. Thank you for what you do.
Happy Day,
Brenda
You are welcome, Brenda. Thank you for your kind words.
The bookmobile was an important part of my childhood as well. I went every week. I couldn’t wait! I understand your love for your Bookmobile completely. (I also thought it was so cool that the librarian could turn her seat around, start the Bookmobile, and drive off! How neat!)
You’re a star! (Did I just name call?)
What a nice idea for a giveaway! I found a copy of “The Brass Bound Trunk” in the same vintage series, but I see you already have it. You’ll have to keep us updated too.
We observe Remembrance Day tomorrow. Given the current state of events in the world, this year for me will be a time for even greater reflection and prayer.
(**sending you an email**)
Well, that name I’ll gladly accept!
I’ll keep you updated on the collection, Barbara. Thinking of you on your Remembrance Day. I think it’s our Veteran’s Day, as well. I’ll have to check the date.
Saying hurtful things just doesn’t work. It’s what children do when they have no other way of communicating. I still feel like I’m in mourning. I’m scared as well. I’m still sad, but today is a new day. I’m going to put some nice music on and make Christmas cards today and pet my dog.
Sounds like a good plan. I kept telling Don that I wish I could pet Scout right now. It would help enormously. xo
No better place to be than in your own nest when it is a safe comforting place. This special blog also fits that bill and many of us are so grateful for your efforts to create this home away from home.
Spending time with Nancy Drew is perfect for these days! Competent nevergive up Nancy is always just the right note that always works for me.
Used the link Sarah provided and loved reading every word. Many of us remember a time when the two main parties could debate valid ideas and often agreed on the desired end result with varying ideas on how to achieve that goal. This election was never like that at all.
Thanks for being here each day….Dianne
No it was never like that, was it? It saddens me more than I can say.
Thank you for your support and for your kind words, Dianne.
Claudia,
Thank you for the opportunity to win this Nancy Drew mystery. I loved reading these as a young girl and would love to start to introduce my granddaughters to her!
Please try to relax about the election. God is still in control, the sky has not fallen. We need to unite as Americans and be part of the change we want to see. You are always a voice for the underdogs and that is a good thing. Keep up the good work!
Susan
I think it will take me some time to relax. I’m acknowledging my feelings, raging when I need to, and talking to all of you and to Don and to my sister. xo
Hi Claudia, I have quietly read your blog for a few years now and have loved seeing a “slice of life” that you provide. I’ve read many of your book reviews, delighted in the dollhouses you’ve built, enjoyed your husband’s music, inspired by your crafts.
What makes me write today is to tell you that what you have written about, in the political realm of things, speaks to me so directly. You have articulated so well what I have thought and felt. I’m shocked, saddened, scared, disgusted, mad, confused… so many emotions…. These are scary times ahead.
Your blog gives me a sense of “right” and I just wanted you to know that I appreciate and love what you have created here.
Thank you!
Very scary times ahead. When I’m lying awake at night, one ramification spins into another and another until I feel shaken to my core.
Thank you for your kinds words, Kate. I’m glad you commented today.
Reading Nancy Drew books as a child, is what got me started on mysteries in the first place! I would love to start a collection…my parents donated mine…sigh. While I’m still deeply saddened by yesterday’s realizations…I decided to turn my negativite attitude into a positive, by cleaning! There’s nothing like a good old fashioned scrub down! Hopefully, sooner than later, I’ll be of the proper frame of mind to do something more constructive than just cleaning. I will do everything in my power to keep fighting for what’s right and decent. We’ve progressed too far, to let someone try and take away our rights! ;)
Me too! They turned me into a life-long lover of mysteries!
Believe me, I will fight. I won’t let those people destroy all that has been accomplished and take us back 60 years. I won’t.
Yesterday my best friend and I had a passionate discussion. We don’t EVER talk politics, because we are at opposite ends of the pole. However, yesterday I felt the need. We didn’t change the other’s mind. but we managed to convey our opinions with respect and love. I am sorry some people felt they could lambast you on your own blog.
Nancy Drew was like a friend when I was growing up. I still have my collection from back there, but would love this copy to start a new collection.
Good for you, Trudy. The very fact that your friend (and you) were open-minded enough to have a discussion about this is heartening.
Claudia, I am at a loss for words regarding the outcome of this election, so I will write about Nancy Drew. I love reading about everyone’s childhood memories of that series. I think they were the first books that “I couldn’t put down.” That wonderful book jacket illustrates perfectly the essence of a Nancy Drew mystery. Nancy, George and Bess were my heroes, and I still fantasize about having a blue roadster. Nancy was smart and level-headed and fearless and glamorous; everything we wanted to be.
Brenda has so eloquently described such a happy, innocent, childhood memory with her Bookmobile Friend. I hope that friend will see Brenda’s comment.
Thanks for continuing to remind us to rise above this fray, in your steadfast way.
Oh, to have a roadster! Wouldn’t that be the best thing?
Thanks, Nancy!
Morning.
Oops, it’s afternoon in your part of the world. This turn of events has hurt my heart and all the things you have already said. So… I went out and puttered and cleaned my happy place- my garden shed. My husband worked at organizing the garage for winter. Then later I got brave and went on the internet to find Garrison’s response. We both had a nice little laugh at the fact he said we would be cleaning the garage. Love that man. (Garrison and of course my husband too) As I was cleaning the garden shed I turned on my radio to a local station that was playing music only but was going to tune us into Hilary’s speech. Finally I cried which was something I had not done yet. It was a good thing. As a step forward, I joined the Van Jones organization. I also have renewed energy in continuing my volunteering with young readers at our neighborhood school. Which brings me to Nancy. I too have a small collection of Nancy Drew books. I am feeling a need to read one right now. Takes me back to a simpler time in my life when all seemed right with the world. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, home, garden, and collections. It is always a bright spot in my day, Lani
I love Van Jones. Thanks for reminding me to that very thing.
And thank you for your supportive comment, Lani!
Civility is great! And I love Nancy Drew!
Thank you Robin!
I have my daughters collection of Nancy Drew books that I’m saving for my granddaughter. They aren’t that old, my daughter is just 25 but my granddaughter is only 3 so it will be a few more years before she gets them. I read everyone of them when I was younger, loved them!
How wonderful that you’re saving them for your granddaughter, Cheryl!
I love Nancy Drew too! I have that book already as well as various editions of some other favorites. I also read Dana Girls mysteries they were campy and such fun!
I am comforted by the knowledge that so many people grieving over the election and yet trying hard to hold firm and to somehow make it better. I read the NY Times piece 10 steps to coping with Trump….it helped!
I haven’t read that yet, Melissa. I’ll make sure to read it. I can use all the help I can get!
I never read The Dana Girls – I’d love to read one!
I grew up reading Nancy Drew so I appreciate your love of them. I have an extensive vintage & antique cookbook collection and I had to create a spreadsheet list to make sure I didn’t already have one when I found a good deal online. I twice bought a cookbook I already had and that’s when I created my list. I also keep a list of which issues of a favorite magazine I already have.
I guess I’m going to have to do that, too! It’s too easy to forget what you have!
I was so proud in the 3rd grade that I had read every Nancy Drew book. My mother put me a mystery book limit at the library. And loved the comment above about the “roadster” a word which I adored at 9 years old. I may take to calling my car the roadster even if it is a boring VW sportwagen.
I appreciate your comments on disagreement and civility. We have to find a way to talk to each other with respect and without the ad hominem attacks. Depending on our political leanings we watch different programs and have different sources of news. And because we increasingly live in “red” or “blue” counties we don’t hear from people with different points of view. And if we close ourselves off to other points of view our minds are then closed and we’re all the losers.
But the level of discourse on tv and on the political stage is toxic. And is teaching people that someone who disagrees with you is your enemy. I applaud your efforts to make space for differing opinions stated respectfully.
the past two days have been very hard and for just now I too am nesting and avoiding the news. I don’t want to be ruled by anger and fear. I need a bit of time. I’ll end with well known Rumi poem: “Out beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there. When the soul lies down in that grass, the world is too full to talk about.”
Everyone lives in a news bubble these days. Because of cable news, we watch a certain channel that tends to support our point-of-view. I’m guilty of that, for sure. The sad lack of civility in discourse started long ago with shows like Jerry Springer. And then it moved into s0-called ‘reality tv’ – now people think that is perfectly acceptable.
I love that poem, Katy. Thank you so much for sharing it here.
I’m trying to avoid all of the publicity, news feeds, and I’ve even resolved to stay off my Facebook page for a very long time (I’m thinking months-it’s a habit I need to break any way)because the “winners” are gloating and flooding my wall with every report they can. I am currently reading the book “The Memory of Water” by Karen White. I’m immersing myself in books instead of the internet.
I should add that I’m still going to read my favorite blogs!
xo
Fortunately for me, I have weeded out most of those who would gloat for that man. But you’re right. It’s good to stay away from all of that for the time being. I started reading a mystery this morning and I welcome the chance to lose myself in a well-written book.
I love the old Nancy Drew books! I have a small collection, that I treasure and display, that belonged to my mom from when she was a girl. I don’t have this one though, so please enter me in the drawing. You have such fun and interesting collections, Claudia!
Thank you, Debbie!
I have loved Nancy Drew books for 50+ years. Right now, I am longing for simpler times; times when people were kinder and more respectful of each other! Thank you, Claudia, for making us all feel better by showing us that there are pleasurable ways to take our minds off stressful issues! Who wouldn’t enjoy rereading those delightful vintage mysteries!
I can’t imagine anyone that wouldn’t!
Loved Nancy Drew! Did you also ever read any of Alfred Hitchcock and The Three Investigators books? My grandmother always, always gave us books as gifts; I still have so many of them, including my N.D. and the Three Investigators. And she always wrote our names and the year of the gift in the front of each; makes me cry (she passed away in 2000) to see her handwriting….miss her so.
Agree; so hard to watch the news now. I am hoping this outcome will only inspire us.
I didn’t read those books! Didn’t even know of them. My grandmother gave me books, too. I’ve been trying to find them here and there, as somehow they ended up with my estranged sister, so I won’t be seeing them again!
I have never read Nancy Drew! But if I am picked to receive your book, I will certainly read it and perhaps be a fan like so many of your readers. I’m trying to remain calm, Claudia, but also have been an ostrich regarding the political news the past two days.
I think being an ostrich is self-care for the time being. We have to give ourselves a chance to process all of this.
Very sorry you had to write [yet again] about how comments work here, on your own blog. You’re totally & completely right of course. And justified to do so. After being immersed in this gruesome election for well over a year, I’ve come to the conclusion that most people these days really don’t know HOW to argue civilly with others. My Dad used to talk often about civics & debating classes he had in high school. He really liked them & I have the feeling he was probably fairly brilliant too, because he loved a good argument but NEVER went low, disrespectful, nasty or anywhere close to “Trump territory” when he did it. I loved it when he & his best friend his whole life, a bank manager, would have their famous good-natured political arguments. Not real disagreements, but they would each take a side of an issue and try to convince the other etc. Lots of fun for me & educational too! Anyway, civics & debating have all but disappeared from school curriculums across the nation, and I think they’re BADLY needed back. Civics is needed because everyone needs to know more about their rights, their government and how the people figure into a democracy. And debating because we must talk to each other- and listen to each other, if we’re going to have a chance to solve problems. When I was a kid, politicians disagreed vehemently with each other but could always be counted on to be respectful and civil in doing it. And I believe part of that is because, like my Dad, they had civics and debating in school,. But now? Well thanks to social media, we all know what it’s like now. And Trump with his “free-wheeling,-I’m-rich-and-have-never-had-to-filter-myself” style is going to have to bear the blame for a lot of it. But how can we expect adults to know how to express themselves, to argue and to listen critically and respectfully to others, if we don’t teach this to children? We’ll NEVER solve problems if we cannot listen to each other & see things from another’s point of view. Just my two cents.
I find that the least civil comments on this blog – in fact, the only uncivil comments – have come from Trump supporters. Not surprising, is it? Oh, and at one point, someone who was an NRA activist when I dared to suggest there should be gun control.
I think you’re right about debating and civics. They are very important and too many young people are not getting exposed to that kind of thinking.
I would love to win. I actually favored Trixie Beldon books when I was young, but would love to start a collection of Nancy Drew for my future grandchildren. I was also upset about the election results. As a proud Southern women I was absolutely in the minority in the area I live and could not get my head wrapped around why so many of my neighbors were voting for Trump. I still don’t understand but I decided today that all I could do was pray and hope that too much damage is not done. In this situation, I hope and pray that I never get to say I told you so.
Me too. Because if it gets to that point, we will be lost.
Good Call Joy,Luckily so many of the things he said he would do are extremely Illegal.I’m hoping that will bring Some Mitigation! Judy A-
I love all your Nancy Drews. I only have a couple of old, old ones from my childhood…which were hand-me-downs; they’re not even the yellow hardbounds. They might have been produced during WWII or maybe even The Great Depression, when paper/inks were at a premium? Mom had a few books from that time period and the books’ pages feel like rice paper. I have some Bobbsey Twins like that, too. We couldn’t really afford to buy books in my family, so we were big library-goers and also big on any books anybody else in the family were ready to move along. Anyway, your colorful covers have really hooked me; I’d love to re-read Nancy Drew books. On the list!
Claudia, I don’t think I took the time to extend my sympathy to you. I know in all this political mess, you’re struggling with the year-marker of your father’s passing, and then you also have the grief over this election. I just want you to know that I feel some of your pain; I wish I could do or say something more to comfort you in these rough times of life. Because you do an awful lot on an everyday basis to bring nice things into our lives here on the blog…lovely photos, things of many interests, lots of topics, lots of ideas; I don’t know how you come up with it all except that I also think you and Don lead a good, well-rounded life with darn fascinating careers. And, then of course, there are the miniatures; the doll houses; your gorgeous country home; your beautiful collections.
I also wanted to thank you for providing space here for any of us readers to vent and for being a good ‘moderator’. You echoed what Rachel Maddow said on her show last night (msnbc), about Americans going thru many challenging times over the years…that stuff happens, but we rally/recover/reboot and sometimes we “MacGyver” it (we use our ingenuity; we get busy). She talked about, okay, feel what you feel about the election and, if you’re not happy with how it turned out, then do something. Go deep into your soul; what do you value, what are you passionate about? Figure it out, and follow that passion…volunteer; put your money where your mouth is; just do something, be committed. And of course I was thinking, then, that this will also make any of us feel better because action is always good.
It’s noon PST and I haven’t looked at one headline. I’m taking a hiatus as of today…and I don’t know for how long…as many here and elsewhere (and you!) have suggested we do…to just dial it down and BREATHE. Work on ourselves to rediscover hope and positivity. Center ourselves (and brace ourselves) to deal with the new normal/abnormal. I loved your post today about Nancy Drew and it’s not about sticking one’s head (me) in the sand or retreating into a shell to escape but, I’m telling you, it was indeed that breath of fresh air. I literally need a breath of fresh air, considering my stupid head cold. I’m not contagious, so I made myself get out this morning in the 94-degree heat (it’s a hot/dry November here in SoCalif) and, I can’t believe I did this because I told myself again and again not to, because I have enough: I shopped the Christmas shelves in the local department store and, yep, I bought ornaments. I don’t care; it wasn’t a lot of money and it made me feel good; they’re so pretty!! The holiday music playing (over the din of the air conditioning…it’s an old store) was actually sort of soothing. Chalk up yet another one to my new normal…
The ones I have are covered in a blue tweed-like fabric.
I’m going to fight and take action. I’m not going to let this sorry excuse for a man change my life or threaten the well-being of others. We must band together and work for change.
Yes, I haven’t looked at my old books in a long time…they’re in storage; hope they’re okay…but blue-tweed I remember, at least on the Bobbsey Twins.
Habit. Got on the computer at the desk, waiting for my husband to get home from work…he has worked 11 days straight without a day off…and, what did I do, but default to headlines on the home page. I swear, tomorrow, I am just staying out of the room. But, Claudia, I did see this (about DT and ‘draining of the swamp’)…did you? NY Times: “Whatever change he envisions will likely be vastly more difficult to enact than his army of supporters believe. Veterans of Washington’s many fights over policy warn that the city is full of ingrained bureaucracies, each of which has entrenched support on Capitol Hill. And while Mr. Trump will have some executive authority, legal, practical and political limitations will constrain his efforts. ‘He doesn’t possess the executive power to reorganize the government at whim,’ said Jody Freeman, a law professor at Harvard University who served in the first Obama administration. ‘There are some minor things presidents can do, in terms of creating new offices in cabinet agencies. But the notion that he can single-handedly abolish agencies is fanciful.’
Thank you for that quote, Vicki. It gives me a smidgeon of hope, though I see much despair ahead.
I know. I cry every day. I cry for so many people hurting and to see our country in turmoil…in the streets, on the school ground; everywhere. The crying is wearing me out. My husband knows someone who is witnessing the demonstrations in London. I’m staying, as much as I can, away from headlines; I guess this happened last night. Her hotel is near the American Embassy, where it was happening. She saw…right outside her window. (I hope I have these details right.) The demonstrators were not unruly but they were vast in number, largely people of color. She said that MANY ‘white’ Londoners were going out to the demonstrators, bringing them food and water in an outpouring of compassion and support. My husband’s friend was so affected by this while being overseas (and American) that she texted a large number of people back here in the U.S. this morning. She said she’d never seen anything like it. Was overwhelmed. She wanted people to know she’d witnessed all this firsthand.
I was reading something about self-care, at times when you need it the most (when you’re rocked to your core); these articles are plentiful on the web right now (even recipes for comfort food) in light of what so many people are feeling. Among the suggestions, to heal: Reread a favorite book. Try to get a full-night’s sleep. Put on fresh, comfy clothing. Light a candle and fill your home with a nice scent. Take a hot bath. Read inspiring quotes. Spend time outside. Do not force yourself to do anything you don’t want to do right now. Eat a balanced diet but treat yourself to your favorite guilty pleasure. Breathe. Unplug. Get some exercise. Splurge a little. Get engrossed in a favorite old movie. Take a nap.
The key idea behind any of this: Self-care is not optional; it’s essential. Furthering the subject, apparently Ellen DeGeneres thinks Americans now than ever need a little bit more love, saying her message of being kind to one another isn’t going anywhere, “My job is to be hopeful and to make everybody feel good. And I’m gonna keep doing that for as long as I can.” The article I read went on to say: “Ellen also offered a hopeful quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, saying, ‘It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.'”
And, from author Elizabeth Gilbert: “When the sh*t goes down, and the sh*t goes wrong, and when the sh*t gets real – that’s when the sh*t gets interesting. That’s when the test comes: Who will you be now? Right now. Right this moment. Because that’s the only part that is up to you.” Continuing (I think it was a Facebook page of hers; I’m condensing/paraphrasing/editing), “These are the moments when it’s time to find out who you really are – and who you can really be. Get quiet, then ask aloud the big question: Who do I want to be in this situation? Answer, and find your peace: Calm. Strong. Open-hearted. Curious. Generous. Wise. Brave. Humorous. Patient. (What we decide to be. How to choose our emotional state in all situations. Because our state of being is literally the only thing in this world that we can control. And it’s not denial or complacency. But all our practices in peace and grace and equanimity and courage are for TIMES LIKE THESE – for times when you don’t get the outcome you want. This is when it matters. When the sh*t goes down. So, decide who you will be today, Dear Ones. You can do this. This is what all your training and practice has led you to. Show the people around you what a calm and peaceful, strong mind looks like. Trust me, they need it. They already know what a panicked mind looks like. Ask yourself, again and again, WHO YOU WANT TO BE, and believe you can be it. Nobody gets to take your emotional state away from you, unless you give it to them. This is how you lead. This is who you are. This is how you BE.)
Sorry I missed commenting yesterday Claudia…I did read all of the comments though and my thoughts were well expressed in them…Thank you everyone…I would love to collect the Nancy Drew series again…please count me in on the drawing!
Thanks, Nancy.
I had some great discussions with my girls about the election. We are going to avoid the hate and hope for healing. I worry about so many and what the election said to those who are not white, not Christian, not straight, not born in the USA. I will fight to be a part of the healing of our nation.
I love this Nancy Drew book and would love to have it. I love Nancy Drew!
I’m suffering a bit from lack of sleep so hope tonight I get a good rest and tomorrow I feel energy to start the day running!!
hugs!
They are very frightened, Linda. I’ve read post after post from Muslims and immigrants and LGBTs who are now living in fear. I won’t tolerate it. I will fight for what is right.
It’s so sad that the ugliness surrounding this election continues. I wasn’t for Trump at all but the meanness and hatefulness of his supporters has made me realize I’ve been viewing the world through rose colored glasses for too long. I’m now resolved to be more politically active going forward. I have to help make the world better for my grandchildren. Moving on, I would love to win the Nancy Drew book! I started off reading the Bobbsey Twins series and graduated to Nancy Drew when I was eight. My copies are long gone and my daughter and oldest granddaughter were nevery interested in Nancy Drew. So sad to me as that was a love I hoped to share with them. We made it into our storm damaged attic prior to demolit in and I found my set of Red Cross Girls books I inherited from my mother’s oldest sister. They’re set in the era of WW 1 and I love the historical aspect of them. Luckily they weren’t damaged by the storm!
The hate crimes have already begun. All from Trump supporters. I vow to fight this. And I will.
Red Cross Girls! I’ve never heard of those books. They sound wonderful!
Just curious what hate crimes from Trump supporters? Everywhere I look it’s Liberal Anarchists and Black Lives Matter causing all the crimes and damage to hard working businesses.
A simple expansion of your search engine to include news from all sources instead of the limited sources you are relying on would quickly show you what is happening.
But in the end, I’m not even going to waste my words replying to this. Sorry. You clearly believe what you want to believe.
If you’re here to stir up trouble, then you’ll be blocked. I have no patience for this.
Claudia, you are one of the most tolerant and sincere people I have ever had the privilege of “accidentally” finding as I bump my way around this planet! I stumbled onto your blog quite by accident and you continue to brighten my days with your beautiful photography, thought provoking commentary on world issues, and all the other components that make this blog what it is—a happy place! I too, am very concerned for what the future of America will look like. Just when I think I am old enough to have heard it all, seen it all, that there is nothing new under the sun, well….discussing the election results with a family member yesterday left me reaching down to pick my jaw up off the floor! The family member was boasting of the privilege it was to vote for the “man-child” (I LOVED that comment from one poster!!!). To each their own is my motto :-) But, what was said next left me feeling absolutely nauseated!!! This family member proceeded to discuss how a “gay couple” with a child is being ALLOWED to attend their church services!! The minister stood before the congregation and announced the couple would be allowed to attend but NEVER be allowed to “join” the church!!! I could not help myself at that point and made inquiry if my family member jumps into a time machine on Sunday mornings to go to services. I could not believe this person I thought I have known for 40 plus years would tolerate such injustice!!!! For any curiosity there may be, we live in a very large city in Texas!! I will never understand those who feel their sin is less than the next person! I fear these types of people elected the man who will lead our nation. My great grandmother instilled the belief in me that all things happen for a reason…my hope is the reason will give all of us 4 years to gather resources, time, positive energy–whatever it takes to elect a female to guide our country!!! I for one, hope that will be a woman of color! And as for those who cannot abide an opinion that does not align with theirs, well they are free to jump out of the sandbox and take their toys home :-) Another favorite quote from great granny! Thanks for a place to unload my disgust! Peace to all
Thank you, Jeannine! My jaw drops when I hear things like what you heard from your relative. What the?? It’s 2016. But, of course, That Man wants to take us back 60+ years, so we shouldn’t be surprised. I’ve been on Facebook a lot today and have seen very real and gut-wrenching posts from my LBGT friends, from Muslims who are afraid, from those who fear they will be deported. I’m petrified about what this man could do to our country in the next four years.
As it is, this is not the American I know. I’m adopting this popular hashtag: #notmypresident
xo
Oh my I looked back and realized my comment may have perhaps hinted I view homosexuality as a “sin”! Certainly not my intent! Apologies!!! love is love is love
Not to worry, Jeannine. I didn’t get that at all from your comment!
Yes, love is love is love is love.
I’m glad you and Don are cocooning. There is nothing wrong from taking a break from the world. Taking care of yourselves right now is healthy and a good plan.
Would it be strange to share that I have never read Nancy Drew? I remember my older cousins having them and being fascinated by the covers but I was too young then and later, couldn’t find copies anywhere. I saw one at the charity shop last week but before I could get to it, another shopped had snatched it up and off she went. I was so close! Perhaps, it is meant to remain a mystery for me! Off to see if I can find any on eBay. Now I’m intrigued. X Chy
They were wonderful mysteries starring scrappy and smart young Nancy Drew and to generations of young girls, they were a favorite, Chy!
omg please please please pick me i LOVE Nancy Drew – she is the best and my fav along with Anne in Anne of Green Gables. My mom belonged to a book club when i was young and cancelled the subscription when i had 2 books to go for the complete set!!!! I spent my summer months in the heat reading and joining Nancy on her adventures. I lover her friends her car her dad her housekeeper, Ned!!! My set is still in my childhood home but mom moved it and cannot remember where she put it and so my dear old Nancy is MIA!!!
dq
Oh no! I hope you can eventually find that set!
I remember sitting in school and daydreaming about being another Nancy Drew. I solved many a mystery, as the teacher droned on and on :-) Guess what I became when I grew up – a teacher!
Ah, payback, I guess! I wonder if any of your students ever dreamed about Nancy Drew?
I would love to be entered for this giveaway. I am quite the reader and collect and read books of all kinds, especially children’s books. Love Nancy Drew and the Bobbsey Twins books!
Thanks, Sharon!
I’m so sorry you were called a name for expressing your opinion/feelings. One of my intelligent friends began crying this afternoon saying she’s scared for all non-white, non-Christian, non-heterosexuals in our country. She’s also scared DT will take away Social Security & Medicare. Hope you & Don have a peaceful weekend.
I’m scared about the same things, Mary. We have to fight That Man. Stand up for what is right and good.
Would love to win this Nancy Drew book. Thanks for the chance.
You’re welcome, Claudia!
Nancy Drew was my very favorite when I was growing up. Just the other day in Barnes & Nobel I spotted a tote bag featuring a Nancy Drew book cover. I promptly bought it.
I have that same tote bag! I think Don got it for me.
Hey Claudia, wow, I love a book giveaway. I was a Trixie Beldon reader because my Great Aunt had that collection instead of Nancy Drew. Heard of her? So, I started checking out Nancy Drew books this summer and quite enjoy them. Thanks for a chance to take us all back to our easier going childhoods through books. And thanks for standing up to encouraging good manners and kindness.
I have heard of Trixie Belden and I think I read some of the series.
You’re welcome, Verna.
I didn’t know you ended up w/ some bad comments yesterday. I saw the one about the lady who thought everything would be just fiiiinnnee………………. but that was the only one. I don’t know why people don’t just move along if they read something they don’t like. I wonder if they watch TV programs they don’t like if they come upon them. Seems crazy to me.
I still can’t sleep. Took a Tylenol PM last night which helped for a few hours,,,,, but not long enough. Have not watched any news program since Tuesday afternoon. I just KNEW what was going to happen. No FB, either. I can’t do it. I will never put any ounce of faith or trust into a poll again in my life. (Now, there is a whole science which needs to be re-worked from the top down!) What an incredible terrible mess. I seriously keep thinking it is a bad dream. Your sister’s blog post today was beautiful. And I am ashamed that we live amongst such hateful and vengeful people. Do the poor and uneducated think that he is going to show them the way to NOT have to pay taxes….. to make THEM millionaires because they believe in him….. or is it that he gives people the permission to hate and call names because he ~ the President of the United States does so? What do they think Trump is going to do? As far as I saw, he never ever answered a single question with a plan or an idea. Just with “Hillary is a liar”. It was his answer to everything ever asked. What is it that they are expecting???? And my last question…. HOW can people who call themselves Christians be followers of this disgusting person? And my last statement….. I worry more about Pence than Trump ~ and the fate of the Supreme Court and the affect that it can have on all of us, is more frightening than all of it added up and multiplied by a million.
It is crazy.
I will never take any poll seriously again. Ever. I feel the same way – I feel like this is a bad dream and for a few hours I forget about the reality and then it all comes back to em.
Yes, Mere’s post was incredibly moving. And she got a very cruel comment on that one. What is it with these people?
He has no plans except to make life miserable for everyone, undo everything Obama has done (which breaks my heart). I’ve never seen such blatant disrespect for a President’s legacy in my life.
Anyone who calls themselves a Christian and supports That Man is a hypocrite. And if Jesus saw them, he would tell them that face to face. But it will come back to haunt them. Here and now or ‘later.’
Pence is also frightening. I have a feeling that Trump could be impeached at some point which will leave us with Pence. But long ago, one of Trump’s aides said that the Vice-President would do much of the work. Why? Because Trump has no desire to learn and has the attention span of a gnat.
Growing up on a small dairy farm in Oregon years ago, my neighbor across the road was one year older and somehow received Nancy Drew books on a regular subscription basis and I was just so jealous! She did share the books with me and we had many “Nancy Drew moments” pretending to be the teenage sleuth. Seeing the covers brings back that strong memory. Thanks for that!
Being a teenage sleuth was such a wonderful thing to ‘pretend.’
You’re welcome, Patricia!
I am Brazilian, I love my country but corruption and violence leaves us on the verge of collapse, times are difficult for all of us on planet earth.
Yes they are, Edis.
Your collection of Nancy Drew books looks wonderful on your shelf. I haven’t read any of these books since my adolescent years! I love the time period 1930-40’s. I would love to win a copy. This was a great post today. You are the voice of reason and truly appreciate your moderation of the comments so that they remain civil. I learn to much when I visit your virtual home.
I love that time period, as well, Sandy. Thank you!
I would love to start a collection of Nancy Drew books for my granddaughter. The graphics on the covers are wonderful.
Aren’t they incredible? Thanks, Mary.
I am so sorry people felt the need to be hateful to you on your own blog, though incivility has reached such a fever pitch that I’m not surprised. Facebook was full of hate today from people I obviously didn’t know as well as I had hoped. They just don’t see what is wrong with Trump, though as the KKK is planning a march in Trump’s honor now, I’m hoping they might get it.
Last night we had an impromptu “What the F*** Just Happened” party with friends, and while it really helped, the sadness for two of my recently married LBGT friends is what has stuck with me all day. They’re both in their 60s, and had both married men because they were raised in a religion that expressly condemned homosexuality (and still does and lobbies really hard against it), did not get to live as who they really are most of their lives, and now when they have finally found themselves and each other, their “Christian” relatives were all Trump supporters. As a white straight female, I can stand with them, I can defend them, and I can love them, but I can never comprehend the pain of knowing that your family and a huge portion of your country thinks you are somehow less of a person because of how you were born. The lack of humanity in this election breaks my heart. This is not the country I thought I knew.
What a great idea for a party, Toni. I’m so sorry that your friends are sad. So many of mine are, as well. The fear that has arisen since this evil man has “won” is everywhere. Of course he didn’t win. We voted for Hillary. She won.
I have been slightly depressed since the election news and my college kids are disturbed by the outcome. Just really don’t know what people are thinking but that guy surely is not my president and no where close to being worthy of office. Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys were my favorite books as a pre-teen. I’m guessing I must have read most of them from the school library.
He is not my president either and I will never use that word linked with his name. Never. Don and I have made that vow.
I think I read a lot of Nancy Drews either from the library or borrowed from friends, as we didn’t have a lot of money to buy books when I was a kid.
My Dear Claudia, like another commenter I “stumbled” upon your blog (after finding your lovely sister’s blog first) and now stalk it for your wonderful pictures, insightful words and (after Tuesday) for hope. Like you I have been waking in the middle of the night with my heart pounding, and with a headache and upset stomach I can’t get rid of. I guess the only good takeaway is I’ve lost a few pounds (insert rueful smile here). Anyway, so far the only thing I collect is yarn, but I have really enjoyed some of your book reviews. Because of you I found Louise Penny. So “Thank You” for the book giveaway and thank you for the kindness that shines through your blog. It gives me hope.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Melissa. In the midst of all of this, they mean a great deal to me. And my sister is one of the two best people I know (the other being my husband). She is simply wonderful.
Melissa, do you live in the Hudson Valley?
50 years ago my mother got into a cleaning frenzy and threw away my entire Nancy Drew collection. (I was not living at home at the time.) I have been mourning that loss all this time.
Oh no! That sounds like something my mom would do – and did. I’m so sorry!
Loved reading Nancy Drew books as a young girl and would also love to start my own collection. Perhaps I will read them all over again! What a fun give-away.
Thank you, Lynn Marie!
Hello Claudia! I was an avid reader as a girl but somehow missed out on Nancy Drew! I read my older sister’s copies of Trixie Belden and Donna Parker and helped solve many mysteries with them. I recently watched the original Nancy Drew movies with Bonita Granville. What fun! I am ready to hop in my roadster with Ted and solve some more mysteries …
Have fun in that roadster, Lori!
Add me to the nice give away, please
Thank you
I will, Charlotte! Thank you.
Would love to receive vintage Nancy Drew novels….my favorite books to read in the 1950s. Thank you!
You’re welcome, Barbara!
As much reading as I have done in my childhood and my adult life, I’ve never read any Nancy Drew books. I just can’t believe it! This is a generous giveaway and I would be very pleased to own my first and hopefully not last Nancy Drew Mystery. Thanks for the opportunity!! Hope you are doing o.k. and recovering from the last few days. I still believe, somehow, it’s going to be o.k. – better than we’re thinking it will be right now. It’s like a fresh wound – it takes time to heal.
I hope you’re right, Ranee, but right now, it seems pretty ominous!
Hi Claudia. I would love to have the Nancy Drew book. As a young girl I anxiously awaited my turn at the library to read the latest copy. The cover on this brings back fond memories. Thanks for the chance to win it.
You are most welcome, Brenda.
I had a set of Nancy Drew books when I was a girl and CHERISHED them. I read them so often the spines separated. I would LOVE to have a set for my nine year old :)
xo
cheers!
Thank you, Heather!
Oh Claudia, you just brought back a very happy memory. When I was 13, I babysat the little girl next door. Her Mom gave me a huge box of Nancy Drew books. I had only read a couple by thy time. I was an Agatha Christie devotee. I spent almost every evening that summer reading those books. I loved Nancy Drew. Mystery has always been my genre. I wonder what ever happened to all those books? I still have all my Agatha Christies.