There are prompts that people use to try to connect to others, using a series of questions to get to know the person they're speaking to; to go a bit "deeper" than regular pleasantries.
I was working in a shop and was having a conversation with a lovely lady, when she asked me, "What are you reading?" I answered, "What room am I in?" She looked confused, then asked me the same question again, but louder. I gave her the same response, but even louder.
A tiny voice whispered in my head: "Lori, this lady doesn't understand. She's from that OTHER Universe, where ONE book is on the nightstand and is read ONLY at bed time."
At that point, I was able to explain to the lady that I read many books at one time, depending on the room I'm in. We both laughed and the awkwardness evaporated.
I am honoured to know that this blog reaches people all over the world. In order for new friends to get to know me a bit better, I thought I would give everyone a glimpse at my current book pile (s)!
Of course, every woman has a purse. Mine is a large tote bag, as I also have a sketchbook and a knitting project with me at all times. My books in there are a book of poems by Edgar A. Guest that belonged to my Great - Great Grandfather, as well as the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu.
These days in the kitchen, I pause what I'm doing to read paragraphs from David McCullough's history book, "The Greater Journey, Americans in Paris". The poetry book on the table is Peacock Pie by Walter de la Mare from 1958.
Near the comfy chair in the living room is Edith Sitwell's Autobiography, "Taken Care Of". I recently turned the last page of a book of poetry by Tupac Shakur. I was introduced to his work when I saw the lyrics, "Only God can judge me" tattooed on a woman's arm.
On my nightstand are essays by the artists Asher B. Durand, Birge Harrison and Robert Genn. I also have the novel, "Pilgrim's Inn" by Elizabeth Goudge from 1948. Her books sweep me away to England where part of my soul resides.
On top of my rose-covered box of embroidery floss near that chair is the book that seems to be unable to find its way back to the shelf where it is SUPPOSED to live. The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius and the Golden Sayings of Epictetus are in one hardbound book and I rely on it. There is nothing better than a steaming cup of coffee first thing in the morning, with Stoic philosophers challenging you to live your best life; and admonishing you soundly if you don't.
Thank you for spending this time with me,
Lori xx
P.S. If you live in the East Kootenays, I'd like to invite you to the
WINTER CRAFT FAIR
November 9, 2024 9 am - 2pm
Fairmont B.C. Lions Den Hall
Hope to see you there!