I've just been rather AWOL from the blog lately. Lots of reading, movies, music, and writing, though. And, I've been giving my time to the local assisted living, spending time with the seniors. One of my grandparents' friends, Peter, is there for rehab, and even though he's suffering from the early stages of dementia, we've quickly become buddies. He's such a sweetheart, and very funny. He keeps making me laugh :) He's always been quite the comedian, and it's encouraging that he hasn't lost his sense of humor!
My time working with Peter has done wonders for me. Not only does volunteering make me feel good inside, but Peter always has a kind word or compliment for me...and, well, it might be shallow, but it always feels really good to hear something like that. I don't usually think of myself as a really "smiley" person, but I can't keep a smile off my face when I'm with the residents of the assisted living. Peter loves to comment on it: "Where did you get that pretty smile?" and "I'm going to need some sunglasses; your smile's so bright!" His kind words only make me smile even more.
In my free time, I've been trying to teach myself to crochet, as well as learn some new knitting techniques. By the end of the summer, I'm hoping to start working on a new knitting project. I found a book of darling stuffed animals to knit, so I'm just trying to decide which to make. It's a toss up right now between the tiger, koala, elephant, and hippo.
My reading has been going well. Right now, I'm enjoying the elusive If on a Winter's Night a Traveller by Italo Calvino, and another of his books (which I don't like quite as much) The Baron in the Trees (Sarah, I found it!!) My movie selections have been Universal horror films, and some random films that my parents and brother have picked out. Loved The Pirates of the Caribbean (I-III) and Fletch (starring Chevy Chase). Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure was interesting, but too corny for me....but, I did love the "historical" bits, like how Billy the Kid and Socrates become best friends, and Napoleon Bonaparte is being "babysat" by Ted's little brother.
More updates soon. I promise! Just been very busy lately. Hope you all are doing well!
On a side note, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Brittany, Professor Thomas, and both my grandpas, who all celebrate this month!
I've heard fun things about If On a Winter's Night a Traveller...maybe I'll put it on the list after my book on Irving Babbitt(have to honor a personal gift from one of my fave profs), which is probably next after my flirtation with French socialism via Ladies' Paradise (see, I gave you the translation so you too can read it, I know it's out there!!)
ReplyDeleteThank you, dearie! I will most certainly add it to my really-super-amazingly long list :P But, since you're a friend, I'll have to put it toward the top ;)
ReplyDeleteAnd I think you'll like If On a Winter's Night a Traveller. I'm going to be posting a review soon....perhaps by Saturday? Or maybe I'm getting ahead of myself? Either way, there will be a review :)
I'm not surprised you don't like the Baron in the Trees. It was recommended by my cousin and its hit or miss with him. He named his car after the character Automosimous (or something like that). You'll have to tell me more.
ReplyDeleteSarah, haven't gotten very far, so I can't really tell you anything about Automosimous yet. I'm hoping that the book will get better...I just feel like there's not much for Calvino to write about on this topic, and the book starts to die slowly.
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