So right up front I have to tell you this book, published in 2013 (and the 2013 Booker Prize winner) is a difficult read. It’s long and has a complicated plot, with multiple inscrutable characters. But Catton has a gift for story development and I am glad I stuck with it…despite a few moments where I wasn’t sure what was happening. Here is my book review The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton
New Zealand 1866
It’s a gold rush in New Zealand’s south island when we meet the novels protagonist Walter Moody. A prospector who has arrived in Hokitika to make his fortune. But Moody finds himself entangled immediately into a local murder mystery of one Crosbie Wells and a missing person of one Emery Stains. Moody discovers the 12 local men, all suspect – each with a claim to a fortune and a girl.
Wikipedia describes “The novel’s complex structure is based on the system of Western astrology, with each of the twelve local men representing one of the twelve signs of the zodiac, and with another set of characters representing planets in the solar system.” I found this part of the novel difficult to follow and frankly unnecessary.
The Ladies
Anna Wetherelle, innocently arrived and thrust into the prostitution profession and Lydia Wells “in the entertainment business” and one of the most despicable characters of the book, each play heavily into the mystery. Anna and Lydia are deeply associated with both the dead Wells and the missing Stains and linked to many of the other unsavory and upstanding local 12 men.
The Storyline
Written in a narrative that is not a straight line…the plot is unveiled through fantastically written story telling from the present moment and months throughout the past year. As the past and present merge so do the menagerie of characters, many out to kill each other all in the name of gold, revenge, opium, secrets, loyalty and love.
It’s a whodunnit it right up to the very end. Stick with it and I think you will be pleased. Thank you for reading my book review The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton.
****Four stars for The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton.
I’m as surprised as anyone to realize we are about to begin year EIGHT of the Grand Adventure. It’s a unique way of life, one we have embraced and learned how to live without too much stress. It’s a true Grand Adventure in so many ways, and having the blog and all of you to share with is a blessing. So let’s talk about My Travel Wardrobe- 8 Months & 19 Countries.
Lessons in Packing
Our bags the day we left seven years ago.
In the beginning we packed way too much. Slowly along the way I discarded things or shipped things home. And yet, even now, I still struggle with making choices. I’m a habitual “just in case” packer. I have worked really hard to change this habit. I know that the “just in case” moments might come…and if they do I can go purchase what I need. When we were locked down in Cyprus we purchased some warmer clothes…and when we flew from Paris to Acadia National Park and found ourselves in a hurricane we went shopping. It’s all good.
Fewer Clothes – But Still Too Much
Might be hot (French Polynesia 2022)
Might be chilly (New Zealand 2017)
I feel this time I have pared it WAY down and I feel good about my wardrobe choices. I purchased fewer things, am packing some of my favorite tried and true pieces, and have eliminated one pair of shoes. But the suitcase challenge that still gives me pains is the eight months of contact lenses, prescriptions, supplements and beauty products. What’s a girl to do?
On this itinerary we will visit 19 countries over 8 months from mid September to mid May. We will likely encounter temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit and possibly day time lows in the mid 50’s.
Let’s Break It Down Shall We?
I always do this the same way. I first consider the weather and I begin with my basics for pants and shorts. This time I have four pairs of pants (two light weight, one medium weight and one legging) and two pairs of shorts (navy and khaki). From these pieces I build my wardrobe house with mix and match quality pieces.
This is the second pair of these pants I have owned and they are incredibly versatile for hot weather as well as cooler days. Here I pair them four ways.
Red boat neck tank is a fav from Talbots – 2 years old
New print tank from Talbots
New Rust embellished t shirt from Sundance
Linen top three years old from JJill
Navy Blue Hiking Pants Are Good For More Than Hiking (REI)
These comfy ripstop fabric pants are perfect for hiking or walking around a city. I expect to wear these a lot. Here I pair them four ways.
Light White Sweater last year from Tommy Bahama
VERY old yellow sweater from Nordstrom and long sleeve t shirt from Talbots
I bought these on sale, not knowing if I was going to like them, but I think they are fabulously versatile for summer, fall or spring wear. Here I have paired them three ways.
Another boat neck tank from Talbots. Loved my old yellow one so much I bought another
Lee Denim Jacket – ancient and I love it
New lightweight linen blouse from Talbots
Black Leggings for Travel Day
Leggings and layering are the way to go on flight day, especially on long flights for comfort. We have several really long flights, and so often planes can be really cold. So I layer up no matter the destination. It’s always easier to peel it off than to freeze when you aren’t prepared. Here I have paired them three ways.
My flight day outfit. Old yellow sweater, new white t-shirt and that checked blouse has been around the world three times
Comfy
I’ve had this denim shirt for years. Nice and faded. No idea where or when I bought it.
When it’s hot I tend to wear dresses more than shorts, but I like to have a couple pair of shorts along for the ride. These Talbots walking shorts are my favorites…I own four pairs! But this time it’s just the navy ones making the cut. Here I have paired them four ways.
Checked shirt again…it’s from Talbots
Love this little sweater from Tommy Bahama
Such a versatile top
The boat neck tank…I own six!
Khaki Shorts JJill
I bought these dark khaki shorts new this year. The fabric is nice and soft and I have worn them several times this summer. A nice addition to the travel wardrobe. Here they are four ways.
I’ve seen those tops before!
And those…
And that cute scarf I bought in Myanmar
Simple and I love the hat from Solbari
The Tops
From the photos above you can see the same tops over and over. I use basic colors that I can mix and match. Although I might pull out a couple of these at the last minute…or not…I currently have three t-shirts, three tank tops, 1 long sleeve t-shirt, 2 long sleeve button up blouses, 1 linen long sleeve blouse and 1 linen short sleeve blouse. All small and packable. In addition I have two light weight sweaters (white and yellow) and my denim jacket. One scarf.
Dresses
I do love my dresses, especially in hot weather. This year I have two new and two old standbys that have served me well for several years. Here they are;
You voted and this linen with Navy trim from Talbots won
You voted and this bright print from Talbots won
Year four of this linen shift from JJill
Old old old but still functional green dress from Travel Smith
Swimsuit
I’ve decided on two one-piece suits this time…and I might also bring a two-piece…not sure. Although everyone loved the white one piece I had last year…it didn’t make the cut. It might be cute but it’s uncomfortable and hard to get in and out of. Who has time for that? In addition to these suits I’ll pack my sarong and coverup too.
New from Lands End
Three years and going strong on this suit from Nordstrom
What About The Shoes
I’ve spent the summer test driving shoes…one of the most difficult things to decide on and to pack. I no longer wear flip-flops (danger danger!) so now have an Ecco slip on that might look dorky but is so comfy. I also purchased my second pair of Ecco strappy sandals; new pair of keen and new sneaker by Kizik. AND instead of a hiking shoe and a running shoe I now have a trail runner that will fill both needs. Those are from Brooks.
Keens Left and Ecco Right
Ecco
Brooks Left and Kizik Right
My Travel Wardrobe – 8 Months & 19 Countries
I of course will also pack my running clothes, underwear and coat. It may seem like a lot, but it is significantly less than last year. Last year I carried a lot of winter clothes because it was going to be very chilly in Bolivia. However it was a heat wave in Bolivia and we didn’t wear most of what we brought. As far as things like the yellow sweater and even the black leggings…if I’m not wearing those it won’t break my heart to let those go along the journey. Easily replaced.
Logan Airport Sunrise
This is my plan. I’ll finalize everything over the next 14 days…we fly on September 9th. The countdown is on! My Travel Wardrobe – 8 months & 19 Countries. Let’s do it!
And watch for our post about where we are traveling this year. It will post on September 8th. As always, I can’t tell you how much your support of our travels and this blog mean to me. You are the best.
Last spring while we were visiting New York City ( I love NY!) we visited the Morgan Library for the first time. Oh my, I was intrigued. Following that visit several people asked if I had read The Personal Librarian? What? No, I hadn’t. And now that I have, I can’t wait to return and visit the Morgan Library again the next time I am in New York. Here is my Book Review The Personal Llibrarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Murray.
Secrets
This is the story of the life of Belle De Costa Greene, the Personal Librarian of J.P. Morgan and first director of the Morgan Library. Greene was incredibly intelligent, well-read, personable, beautiful, savvy and an amazing business women for the time. She was all of these things that made her successful and indispensible to J.P. Morgan for years. But she also carried a secret, one that if found out she would lose everything. She was black.
Turn of the Century
At the turn of the century, no black women, or man for that matter, held a more powerful position than Belle de Costa Greene. And everyday she fretted over the secret she carried. Born to a fair skin mother and father…her parents split when her mother insisted they all live as white. Belle’s father disappeared and Belle, her mother and her siblings moved to New York, changed their names, and began a life that was a lie…living as white.
J.P. Morgan
It’s unclear if Morgan ever knew this secret. It’s assumed others in the circle did but kept quiet. And somehow Belle rose through the social ranks and lived a life that others of her race could not even dream about.
Before her death, Belle burnt all of her correspondence in an effort to keep the secret beyond the grave. But eventually it became common knowledge. This book is written with both facts from other historic documents, and a healthy dose of fiction. But it’s an intriguing story of the lengths someone with so much intelligence and gifts had to endure to be successful.
I look forward to visiting the Morgan Library again. Thank you for reading my Book Review The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Murray.
How lucky am I to have so many creative and talented friends? Very. And today’s Hidden Gem is the brainchild of friends of ours. A brand new, innovative approach to entertainment in the tiny community of Union on Hood Canal. Let me introduce you to this week’s Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Hood Canale Beer & Wine Bar.
Welcome to the Grotto
Hood Canale is open for business
Union Washington
If you have never heard of Union Washington on the beautiful Hood Canal, let me tell you a bit about this wonderful, beautiful, (and a bit quirky) hidden gem. Union is an unincorporated area of Mason County on the East and South shores of the Hood Canal near the mouth of the Skokomish River.
First settlers arrived in the late 1800’s. A hotel and sawmill were some of the first commercial operations. Wealthy residents began to grab up property for summer homes and permanent residences and by the 1920’s Union became known as an artistic community.
Hood Canale is across the street from Robin Hood Village Resort
When I was a kid, once or twice a summer we would make our way to Union either before or after we visited Twanoh State Park. We also passed Union on our way to Shelton or hiking in the Olympics. One very memorable Christmas we drove to Alderbrook Inn for Christmas dinner…absolutely unheard of in our family. The Inn has long since been replaced with a beautiful new hotel, grounds, restaurant, and dock….an absolute must visit when in Union.
Fabulous location
Beautifully appointed
Creative Friends
Our friends John and Jolica have long had property in Union and their new endeavor Hood Canale has been a dream for these entrepreneurs. Next to Hood Canale are two waterfront Airbnb cottages recently updated with Jolica’s artistic touch. In addition Jolica Jewels (her real job she says with a grin) has a presence at Hood Canale. John also has a “real” job in the travel industry…but boy these two have so much energy they decided to run a bar and pizza grotto too!
John showing us his pizza skills
Hood Canale owners John & Jolica
Immediate Success
It’s no surprise to me that this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Hood Canale Beer & Wine Bar is an immediate success. The space is gorgeous and comfortable. The wine and beer selection is lovely. And the pizza…well, clever and delicious. I wouldn’t expect anything less from this duo.
According to John, the work ethic here is excellence not perfection. But we think the product is pretty close to perfection – and a very authentic Neapolitan style pie. Fresh dough made every 2-3 days, innovative toppings, “New Wine Wednesday” and music twice a week will keep the customers coming.
No two pizza’s are alike
Beautiful Charcuterie
Current menu
In fact locals are flocking to the inviting space and not only to enjoy charcuterie, pizza and drinks, but fun music and events. It has quickly become a gathering place – the hearth of the community. And yet it’s also a perfect stop if you are just passing through – wherever you are on your way to. Stop and say hi, meet the amazing staff and the owners who are hands on. Enjoy some pizza, listen to the lapping water or the fabulous music and take a bottle of wine to go.
The Bar
Incredible wine selection
Stay Tuned
John and Jolica have more plans…this is only the beginning. Great things are happening in little ole Union. You don’t want to miss out!
As of this writing hours are;
Monday 12-8pm Bar and Charcuterie (no pizza)
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday noon-9pm and pizza starts at 5-8pm
Thursday 12-9pm Pizza 5-9pm and music
Friday 12-10pm Pizza 5-9pm
Saturday 12-10pm Pizza 5-9pm and music
Sunday 12-8pm Pizza 4-8pm
but check the website or call as this will change seasonally. The website also has music line up and information about the cottages next door. Hood Canale will be open year around.
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Hood Canale Beer & Wine Bar
Thanks for reading this week’s Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Hood Canale Beer & Wine Bar. Check out last week’s Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Boehm’s Candies. And be sure to come back next week for our Annual Travel Wardrobe post. Always a favorite.
We love it when you comment, pin and share our posts. Thank you! See you at Hood Canale!
This book is apparently an Oscar winning movie…but I didn’t know that when I picked it up. It’s a strange story, that takes place over a short two-day period, in a hayloft, will surprise you, anger you, and scare you. Here is my book review Women Talking by Miriam Toews.
Mennonite Colony, Bolivia
This book (and subsequently the film) is loosely based on a real crime that took place in a Mennonite Colony in Bolivia. Over a period of several years, the men of the colony consistently drugged and rapped women in their sleep…even girls as young as three. The women are told by the men that they have been visited by the Devil because of their sins.
Eventually one women wakes up during the ordeal and discovers the two men attacking her. At first the men of the colony try to impose justice within the colony, until one of the women tries to kill the men and another woman commits suicide. The perpetrators are then arrested by the Bolivian authorities and sent to jail.
Women Talking
While the other men go to the city to try to bail out the suspects and bring them home, the women gather in a hayloft to discuss what they might do to save themselves. Only one man is present in this secret meeting. August Epp is invited to take “notes” since none of the women are literate. The question at hand is should the women stay and fight? Or should they flee? They have very little time to make a decision. The personalities of the women come into play heavily in the discussion, argument, consideration and eventual decision.
The Decision
Written in an interesting style, Toews has you pulling for these women…despite the fact they are illiterate, don’t speak the local language, have no money, transportation or even a map. Can this story end happily?
Thank you for reading my book review Women Talking by Miriam Toews.
I have had the opportunity to taste and enjoy locally made chocolate in multiple countries around the world. I’ve taken chocolate making classes, learned about cocoa and brought home chocolate as gifts. But despite all that, there is one chocolate that remains my favorite – hands down the best chocolate in the world. And it’s right here in the Pacific Northwest. Let me tell you about Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Boehm’s Candies.
Issaquah
Boehm’s in Issaquah
The lovely town of Issaquah in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains was my home back in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. Back then Issaquah was still a tiny little town, where people knew each other and shopped at locally owned stores. Today Issaquah has grown massively, but still keeps a thriving old town area and several successful unique and historic businesses. One of those is Boehm’s Candies.
Julius Boehm
Chalet built in 1956
Austrian born Julius Boehm escaped Hitler’s tyranny and fled to Switzerland in 1940 and on to the United States in 1941. In 1942 he opened his first candy kitchen in Ravenna with the help of two friends and inspiration from his pastry-making grandmother. In 1956 he moved the operation to Issaquah which reminded him of the Alps and built the authentic Swiss Chalet that still is home to Boehm’s Candies today. Julius was a generous, engaged and much loved member of the community until his death in 1981. Thankfully longtime protege Bernard Garbusjuk took over the helm of the operation. With his long family history of Austrian Chocolate making Bernard kept the traditions and Boehm’s flourished. Today Bernard’s children are continuing the quality chocolate making business.
Hand Dipped
Hand Dipping
Today most candy making operations are done with machines and it is rare to find fine chocolates that are hand dipped. In Boehm’s candy kitchen you will find the last two hand dippers at Boehm’s – Judy and Amy have been hand dipping chocolates for a combined 53 years. It is one of the things that make Boehm’s so special. Most people might not recognized how unique this is when they pop a delicious Boehm’s truffle into their mouth. But it is truly a dying art…and one to be savored.
Machines Work Too
Nougat rolled and waiting
Some Boehm’s candies, however, are made by small batch machines. One rolling machine is more than 100 years old and is used nearly every day to roll out the confections. I asked what happens if they need a part for this 100 year old apparatus and I was told it never breaks down. Well they don’t make ’em like they used to!
Delicious
Boxing up a special order
And they really don’t make ’em like they used to when it comes to today’s mass produced chocolate. Boehm’s is not that…rather it is a hands on, high caliber, steadfast operation, that is dedicated to traditional recipes, quality ingredients, old world charm and community. Much of Boehm’s staff have been with the company for multiple decades…unheard of in this day and age.
You can also visit the beautiful Poulsbo location for the same great product, made fresh in Issaquah and delivered to Poulsbo once a week.
And of course you can order online…but I recommend a personal visit and tour…because you can’t get a sample, breath that delicious aroma, or stroll the beautiful grounds at the Chalet by ordering online. It’s definitely a treat to visit in person one of my all time favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Boehm’s Candies.
Often over used, the word epic is the right choice for this novel which I listened to on Audible. I’ve been working my way through several Man Booker Prize winners from the past, and Sacred Hunger won this coveted prize way back in 1992. It’s a brilliant novel that still holds up nearly 30 years later. Here is my book review Sacred Hunger by Barry Unsworth.
Unsworth is a real talent for historical novels. The character development of this literary masterpiece is the glue to this saga.
Britain’s Sacred Hunger
Sacred Hunger, the term, is used to describe the greed and power and control used by Britain in the 1700’s to capture and transport Africans to use as slaves throughout the colonies. The book follows the folly of the “slaver” ship The Liverpool Merchant, owned by William Kemp. Kemp’s failing fortunes are devastated when the Liverpool Merchant disappears at sea, presumably lost killing crew and slaves alike. Kemp’s son and heir Erasmus, finds his dead father after his suicide due to the financial failing. Erasmus with no prospects must start from scratch to survive.
Twelve years later Erasmus will hear of a colony in Florida, living peaceably together white and black, the possible survivors of the Liverpool Merchant. Erasmus will set out for revenge against those who he believes he still owns.
Utopia
Told in a parallel story (and on audible in brilliant voices by the talented David Rintoul) the survivors of the Liverpool Merchant are many; Irish, British, African and more. Babies have been born, some have died, but together a society has been formed with no particular leader, although the doctor is one of several who stepped up to show leadership when a mutiny killed the captain.
So Much More
I’ll stop here for fear of giving too much away, but I loved this book…a perfect mix of fact and fiction and the life of slave traders, sailors and slaves alike. Engaging, deeply flawed, captivating and believable characters
Thank you for reading my book review Sacred Hunger by Barry Unsworth. *****Five stars for Sacred Hunger.
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