Review: My Life with George

My Life with George: What I Learned about Joy from One Neurotic (and Very Expensive) Dog is an endearing story about the influence a dog has on a family. Judith Summers and her son are devastated by the loss of some dear family members. In a short period of time, they both lose their fathers and Judith her husband and life partner. Not knowing how to fill the void in their lives, they seek out George an adorable and lovable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. George becomes a welcome addition to their family, even though he is what one would call, high maintenance. Refusing to eat dog food, George trains his owners to feed him chicken, he takes over furniture and beds, and then there are the ever increasing vet bills. My Life with George is a delightful tale of how our dogs take over not only our hearts but our lives.

This memoir was enjoyable to read, it was plain to see how George wiggled himself into the center of this family. Judith Summers was honest in her portrayal of the upheaval of one's social life that a pampered pooch can create. My Life with George provided moments of laughter and moments of tears. All the great moments a reader looks for in a good book!

Espresso Tales

Alexander McCall Smith returns to 44 Scotland Street in the second installment of the series. Many of the story lines and characters return to entertain the reader. Most prevalent is little Bertie whose mom is dictating every aspect of his six-year-old life. Bertie finds adventure through a few plots to undermine his mom and he finds a supporter in his father. Bruce gets his comeuppance when he tries to become a wine broker. Pat decides to return to school while continuing to work with Matthew.


Overall I enjoyed the second book in the 44 Scotland series better than the first. The key for me was more Bertie. His adventures in this book had me giggling. I hope his father continues to support Bertie’s opinions and wishes. I also enjoyed that good-looking, obnoxious Bruce was not as easily successful as he thought he would be in the wine trade. I look forward to reading the next installment, Love Over Scotland.

This is it.....

So, another year has gone by. Tonight seals my summer and back to work I go. Really it is with mixed feelings....I have loved day trips and activities with James, last minute plans and loads of adventure...but I do love teaching and this year is already promising lots of challenges.

As I start the year, I have a few goals:

* Use my time more wisely at school
* Keep on top of marking and lesson plans
* Improve parent communication
* Try to plan meals ahead to eat better
* Try to leave earlier in the morning and leave sooner after school

Now that I have started the list, I realize that I could go on and on. I think I will stick to those five. Maybe I will re-evaluate next term.

So, in order to fulfill my second goal, I had better head down to the freezer and pull something out. Oh, and I had better head to bed so that I can leave early tomorrow morning....Something tells me this is not going to be as easy as I think!!!!