Syndactyl Salutations

Thoughts on writing, knitting, and the world around me.

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

The Year of Magical Thinking

Please read this book.

I have been wanting to read The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion since it came out at the end of last year. I finally did last week in pretty much one fell swoop, most of it in less than five hours.

It was difficult to read at times, but so worth it. She brings the year to life, and her emotions about the events come sharply to the surface, without becoming sentimental or maudlin. It gives insight into grief of a kind I can never imagine experiencing.

I read it very quickly this time, and I have a feeling I'll read it again. Next time I'll take it slower, try to savor the language itself, rather than just the emotions and story.

So, yes, if you are looking for something to read, please read this book.

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Letters

I have written two letters in the past two days. I would love to be a great letter writer, but I'm not. I'm not even very good at email. I used to write letters periodically to friends in other parts of the country or the world, but I've gotten out of the habit, which is a shame. Part of my problem is that I spend way too much time thinking about writing letters, rather than actually sitting down and writing them. I have two or three more I want to write very soon, I hope I do, rather than just letting the matter drop.

I have work for the next week, starting tomorrow, so this evening is minor anxiety. I've gotten a lot better about the pre-job anxiety since I've been temping, but there's always a little bit, new people, new responsibilities...and an introverted personality.

I'm not going to go to the knit day at The Mannings this year, because I need to help my parents work on their renovation project. I'm feeling guilty because I haven't spent as much time on it as I could/should be. So, everyone who is going, enjoy!

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Home

I am between assignments right now, so I am home. A lot. I resent having to pay nearly three dollars a gallon for gas just because the market will bear it, so I only drive every couple of days, if that.

Last week was just too hot to move, so I didn't, except to go to Ebbie's to enjoy A/C a couple of evenings. Yes, I now live in an unairconditioned third floor walkup. Today's not so bad, there's a nice breeze.

I'm not making any money, so I'm trying not to spend much. This means I passed on Chesco SnB's KAL. They look as though they will have fun, though.

It's been another month between posts. I keep thinking about it, but never feel like I actually have anything to say. Today I decided to forget that little detail and post anyway.

Enjoy.