Depoe Bay, Oregon
January 2026
Hello, friends. I can't write this summary without bringing attention to the current state of affairs in our country. My heart is heavy. In a single year, there have been countless attacks on our history, our livelihoods, our communities, and our citizens. With each loss of life, each senseless detainment, each deportation, I grow more angry with our government, angry with those who think that this is right, and angry with those who could turn the tide but lack the spine. My way of coping is to escape into books and nature. I am fortunate to be here, on the Oregon coast, and am well aware of my privilege to feel safe, sheltered, and fed. There are so many who aren't. If you feel as I do, and want to help Minnesotans specifically, take a look at this site and this one.
In addition to going for long walks in our neighborhood and on the ocean path, I've taken up an new exercise program (Ladder) and am enjoying the guided programs, which include strength training and conditioning. Feeling stronger every day!
We had visitors in the middle of the month, and the weather cooperated for a change. January was very dry and it looks like February won't be any better. Personally, I don't miss the rain, but I know it's not good going into the summer months. I'm just thankful we didn't get the frigid temps and snow/ice that others experienced last month. Yuck!
With regards to my favorite pastime, I read eight new books and re-read an old favorite that stood the test of time. Of all of these books, all were new-to-me authors except two! I also have a couple of books that I'm reading little by little since they're both quite long (The Emperor of All Maladies and The Winds of War). I have stacks of new books (thanks to my mom and Santa!) that I'm eager to get to over the next few months.
Books Read (click on the title for my review):
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen (3.5/5)
The Maid by Nita Prose (3.5/5)
Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild (4.5/5)
Durable Goods by Elizabeth Berg (4/5)
The Eights by Joanna Miller (4/5)
The Story of a Heart by Dr. Rachel Clarke (3.5/5)
You Are Here by David Nicholls (4/5)
Pete and Alice in Maine by Caitlin Shetterly (4.5/5)
The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny (3.5/5)
Movies & TV Series:
The Game - We enjoyed this suspenseful, cat-and-mouse series. Jason Watkins is a favorite from McDonald & Dodds. (Britbox)
Seven Dials - Another entertaining series with a great cast. Mia McKenna-Bruce, Helena Bonham Carter, and Martin Freeman are all outstanding. Kept me guessing! (Netflix)
Bookish - I enjoyed this quaint British series, but not quite as much as my husband or my mom. It reminded me a bit of Moonflower Murders. (PBS)
Life of Crime - Not a memorable series, but we were entertained. (Britbox & Prime)
Good Night, and Good Luck (on Broadway) - Outstanding!! I was blown away by this show. I had tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat during Clooney's final monologue, which is very timely. Highly recommend! (Netflix)
Lynley - Another series that I forgot to include last month. Based on Elizabeth George's mysteries. I hope there's another season. This one was good! (Britbox)
Puzzlemania:
Mom, Mark and Ana
We are fortunate to get so many relatives visiting us here on the coast! My brother and sister-in-law came up from San Diego for a few days. We're looking forward to seeing them again this summer.
Wishing you all peace and love.
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