11/22/63

Once in a long while a book comes along that not only enthralls you during the entire read but makes anything you read shortly thereafter pale by comparison. Stephen King's 11/22/63 is one of these rare books.

For those of you who associate Mr. King with horror stories please reconsider your preconceptions. 11/22/63 is nothing like that at all.

Who can write "He opened an ice cream freezer and removed a frosty mug roughly the size of a lemonade pitcher. He filled it from a tap and I could smell the root beer, rich and strong. . . . . . I sipped through the foam on top, and was amazed. It was ... full" and make feel you like you are smelling and tasting the root beer yourself? Stephen King can.

Perhaps it's because I can remember the late 50's and early 60's so well myself. I was actually coming out of a Grade 12 bookkeeping exam when we heard the news of President Kennedy's assassination. Perhaps it's because like many of my generation I can still close my eyes and smell and taste those times. Oh I know it was not all 'good old times' but it was a simpler, purer way of life and it was GOOD,

Now you may not remember these times yourself but let me assure you that if you enjoy rich characters and scenes filled with love, sorrow, laughter and action this is a must read for you.

11/22/63 is not a little gem - it is a enormous multifaceted jewel.

Oh My!!

Yesterday went I went to the mailbox I found an envelope postmarked in Alberta, Canada. That could only mean I had mail from my friend Berta.

The Gold Collection Petites 'Overlook Cafe'

Dear, dear Berta - What can I say? – THANK YOU so much for the lovely cross-stitch kit!! I love it. The pattern is so pretty and the colors are stunning.

When I look at it I can see you, Felicity and I meeting here and enjoying a wonderful summer's day with a lovely breeze coming off the Mediterranean. I'm having a glass of red wine (what about you?) and we are whiling the day away with friendship, talk and laughter and perhaps a stitch or two.

hugs, Margaret