Nothing exciting

[angela_o]

Yep, that pretty much sums up my day thus far. I remember when weekends used to be a lovely 48 hours of sloth and indolence. Then I had children. Now, my weekends are often spent carting one or another of the minions hither and yon and today was no exception. Ah, one of the myriad joys of motherhood. lol There really should be a sarcasm font don't you think?

Since I obviously have nothing of earthshattering import to say, I will instead pose a question. Summer swim team season started this past week and that means that I have many hours of poolside time in my immediate future waiting for the aforementioned minions to finish their respective practices. Therefore, I need to have lots of books lined up to read to pass the time. What 5 books would you recommend as can't miss reads? Don't feel constrained by time period, anything from classics to just published is fine. As for genre, I read almost anything, with the possible exception of fantasy. So, pleace rec away. It's practically a public service. :)

We're at 22. Sightings are slowing down over the past two days. Although there are an apalling number of other makes and models in the same lurid shade. I just don't get the attraction for the regular buyer. lol

Comments

[angela-o.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the recs. I read The Red Tent several years ago for my book group and very much enjoyed it. The idea of having a scheduled time of refuge every month was very enticing. Atonement, however, is one that I've not read. One question though, do you find it to be an ultimately hopeful book? I think that I've tended to shy away from McEwan because his subject matter is often so heavy. Does he manage to balance the weight of the subject so that it doesn't become overwhelming?

As for swimteams, we're part of the Parkwood Piranhas of the Durham Summer Swim League. My husband is one of the coaches in fact. We're trying to threepeat as DSSL Champions this year, but it's going to be tough. Although my oldest is determined to do all he can to make it happen. lol

[chrisjournal.livejournal.com]

Ahhh. One of the big teams -- we're in the tiny division, but I remember watching Parkwood at the finals the last couple of years. I'm sure we'll be there this year, too.

As for 'Atonement,' I'm not sure I would call it ultimately hopeful, but I do think there's something positive about it. The subject matter is undeniably heavy, but I think it...contains...one of the most beautiful love stories I've ever read. It moved me profoundly when I read it. McEwan's hand with language is masterful. Although it took me a chapter or two to sink into the rhythm, once I fell into it, I was lost.

I think it's worth the investment of time and energy, if only to read what has to be the most erotic scene I've encountered in modern fiction.

[angela-o.livejournal.com]

I think it's worth the investment of time and energy, if only to read what has to be the most erotic scene I've encountered in modern fiction.

Well, that's certainly a compelling statement. I'll put it on my list of things to check out. Thanks for the recommendation.

As for Parkwood, yes, we're the big team. But, that's mainly because we're one of the only teams in the league that doesn't require that families join the swim club in order to have their kids on the team. It's a really supportive environment and I love the way that the older kids act as cheerleaders for the younger swimmers. That sense of team spirit is one of the best things about the experience in my opinion. All 4 of my kids are on the team this year, although the youngest (not quite 6) may not actually compete. It's her first year on the team.

Plus, on a strictly shallow level, I grew up in GA so red and black work for me as team colors. lol