Elizabeth and After

Journal

Author: Matt Cohen

I read this book years ago; I have copies of my website dating back to 2010 but I couldn’t find my initial review. I couldn’t remember anything about the story but in my mind it was the greatest book ever. I’ve carried it around with me since at least my Port Coquitlam days, and maybe even longer. It sat on the shelf on Texada (with my really good books) and I decided to read it again.

Sadly I have no idea why I thought it was so marvellous. Carl has been away from the town he grew up in for a few years. He was running from his partner and their child, and the memory of his mother, at a time when his life was falling apart. When he returns, all the old feelings and acquaintances are waiting for him.

Goodreads Rating: * * *

12 Days of Christmas – Day 2

Journal

December 14, 2024

It wasn’t easy finding a tree that would fit on the template but I did it. And it wasn’t easy finding a template that seemed the right size. I used lots of paper printing out various sizes for each of these.

A friend gave me some corners off a fabric box she was making and I was able to use the backing from those corners to “lift” the tree off the tag.

Happy Birthday Dylan

Journal

December 12, 2024

Patchwork Presents from The Polka Dot Chair

Dylan will be travelling to Miami on his birthday and, with the postal strike, his celebration will be delayed until he returns. Hopefully his present will be waiting for him when he gets home.

The Swallows of Kabul

Books

Author: Yasmina Khadra

This novel is written by a former officer in the Algerian army. Although it doesn’t give a deep insight into the people of Kabul it was an interesting read. Any story that starts off with the stoning of a prostitute has my attention.

The story follows the lives of two different couple. Mohsen and Zenaida lead a privileged life prior to the Taliban taking control. They now barely survive but are aware they a better off than many. Atiq is employed by the Taliban; he and his wife Musarrat fail to see where his position has helped them. As the story progresses you see how each couple envision their futures.

Goodreads Rating: * * * *