11 Comments

Marg, I particularly love the photographs of your cabin. It makes me think of stunning places hidden somewhere under the big shadow of a winged age-old tree. Hope you're well this week. Cheers, -Thalia

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It was a delightful little place. Kind of in the middle of nowhere, but that made it even more attractive. Yes, I'm feeling much better this week. Thanks so much for asking. xx

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So happy to read about your travels and lovely family time, Marg! The little cabin is a dream, so charming ❤️

As you know, I will be on maternity leave soon, and will finally be able to devote more time to reading. Have you got any suggestions for a nice spring/summer read I can pick up as my first book in a hopefully long list? Thank you 😊 🙏 💓

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I'm so excited about your baby. I hope it all goes well for you.

Re reading recs, I'm going to assume you want something engaging, but not too challenging to read? Let me know if I have this wrong.

I think you might enjoy 'The Storied Life of AJ Fikry' if you haven't read it. It's a lovely book. Other suggestions are 'The Almost Sisters' by Joshilyn Jackson or 'The Art of Baking Blind' by Sarah Vaughan (about a cooking competition - a bit predictable, but fun). If you want something with more depth, I loved 'The Patron Saint of Liars' by Ann Patchett. It's one of her early novels, and one of my all-time favourites.

If you are looking for non-fiction, I recommend 'I came all this way to meet you' by Jami Attenberg. It's about her writing journey and I think it would appeal to you.

Let me know how you go! xxxx

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Yes, engaging and potentially not too dark or sad.

I read 'The Storied Life of AJ Fikry' for your book club, even though I wasn't able to join the discussion. I liked it a lot! But still can't get over the sad loss of the baby's mom.

I think 'The Art of Baking Blind' could be the right one for me atm. I'm so looking forward to be in maternity leave so I can bake more often. This will keep me occupied and inspired in the meantime. Just purchased the ebook ;)

I've added Attenberg's book to my list.

Thank you so much for your recommendations, Marg, I knew you would be the right person to ask to!

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I love the vacation photos of you and your sisters and nephew, Marg! The retro cabin and the kangaroos are enough to tempt me once again to add Australia to our wishlist of future destinations. Recommended reading, listening and healthy recipes are all most welcome! I can’t remember when I’ve made a brown rice salad—if ever! I’ll be trying this one for sure!🌾

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I included the kangaroos for overseas subscribers, so I'm really glad you liked them. They don't hop down the main street (well, that's not true, they do occasionally) but the place we stayed was previously a kangaroo sanctuary, so I think a few families just stuck around. Brown rice salad is very satisfying and easy to transport, so good for a lunch on the run.

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Good choice to include kangaroos in your post, Marg! I know they’re a cliched image of Australia and undoubtedly just prove my ignorance, but I’ve been partial to them ever since my mother read Winnie-the-Pooh to me as a child and I fell in love with Kanga and Roo! Despite identifying rather closely with gloomy Eeyore at times and craving honey and cuddly bears because of Pooh, it’s images of hopping kangaroos that have stayed with me. I guess it’s a testament to the enduring power of childhood stories!📚

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Couldn't agree more.

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Thanks so much for the mention!! Also, your travels look delightful and the heat would be welcome here in Wisconsin where we’re currently experiencing a snow storm!

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My pleasure! Love your newsletter. Our fine weather is just about to end. Big rain is coming so I will be bringing out the soup and toast.

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