Today on weekend meanderings, LL Bean’s mini Boat & Tote is my favorite bag (and gift), don’t miss the Donkey King docuseries premiering today, three favorite reads from last year and why supporting local authors matters, plus an update on the creekside folly … you won’t believe how far is come.
Happy Saturday, friends … and Happy New Year!
I’m back from winter break and excited to rejoin Kim and Elizabeth to kick off another year of weekend meanderings, our weekly roundup of inspirations and goings on.
How were your holidays? I love the period between Christmas and the New Year. Time feels a little vague and it’s unclear what day it is … and there’s no need to get properly dressed. I read some books, binged a bunch of television and even went to a movie.
All products and links included in this post are selected by me and some may be affiliate links.
One of my goals for the New Year is to keep these weekly dispatches tighter and more concise. In other words to say less. We’ll see how I do.
Go-To Gift Idea that Works Year-Round
As you know, because I can’t stop talking about it, my go-to gift last year – for the nieces and BFF’s – was a mini Boat & Tote with embroidered monogram – or acronym – with a pretty scarf tied to the handle. For my nieces, I treated the mini’s like stockings and filled them accordingly. For friends, there were candles, beauty products, books, and baked goods inside.
I mention it again in case you’re like me and love to gift a favorite thing to absolutely everyone. This could also be viewed as lazy. You decide. Anyhoo, it’s an all occasion, one-size-fits-all kind of gift that works year round. As an individual or group gift baby and wedding showers, clubs, family and friend trips, holidays (what a cute Easter basket) … the possibilities are endless and believe me I’m squeezing every last drop out of this idea.
It’s also my favorite bag that I used summer though the fall.
In case you missed it, AIS = ass in seat … a favorite expression of my dad’s which means the time we’re pulling out of the driveway (as opposed to meandering toward the car).
Watch Donkey King Today on ABC
Donkey King debuts this morning on ABC stations … so drop everything and tune in! I’ll be here when you get back.
This 17-episode docuseries follows the heartwarming, hilarious, and deeply emotional lives of the donkeys and the humans who love and care for them at Oscar’s Place Donkey Adoption Center & Sanctuary in Hopland, here in Northern California.
The series can be seen Saturday mornings on local ABC stations. For us, it’s 9:00am on KGO channel 7 (715 on Comcast if you’re a cable dinosaur like me). Learn more here.
If you miss the debut not to worry, all episodes will be immediately available for streaming here.
I’ve talked about Oscar’s Place many times here on the blog. Jim and I have been Guardians (monthly contributors) since nearly the beginning. I’ve been really excited for the debut of the show and the attention it will bring to the plight of these beautiful, smart, and emotional creatures as well as increased awareness and support for this wonderful organization.
Read People Magazine’s feature on Donkey King here. And be sure to follow Oscar’s Place on Instagram for the delightful daily goings on in the lives of the donkey’s … and their humans.
It’s been a big year for Oscar’s Place, in addition to the debut of the docuseries, a large land donation allowed them to expand to a second location in Potters Valley increasing the number of donkey’s they’re able to rescue and rehabilitate. And last week they announced the release of a premier vintage Sauvignon Blanc, a small-batch estate wine (Potters Valley, Mendocino County) made from organic grapes grown on the Potters Valley property and produced by their neighbors and partners at Nelson Family Winery. Yes, I already ordered – and received – a case. You can order it here.
Favorite Reads from Last Year
Last year I made an effort to read more books. I know I’m not alone in finding myself lured into the social media world to the detriment of my reading time, and enjoyment of books. I’m happy to report that my social media, and overall inter-web, time is down and my book count is up. 27 books last year … that’s a lot of books and these are a few of my favorites.
The Correspondent
A couple of friends recommended The Correspondent by Virginia Evans and another said it was her favorite book of the year. That’s all the encouragement I needed and after reading the book in a single day, I completely agree.
“Filled with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, The Correspondent is a gem of a novel about the power of finding solace in literature and connection with people we might never meet in person. It is about the hubris of youth and the wisdom of old age, and the mistakes and acts of kindness that occur during a lifetime.”
Lying Drunk
Another book I read in a single day, Lying Drunk by Tony Hicks. The author is a well known former columnist, music and film critic that local friends will recognize from the East Bay Times/San Jose Mercury News. How I learned about Tony’s book is a little bit of a story with a circuitous route. I know, I vowed to be more concise in my dispatches, but bear with me.
Recently I found myself on NextDoor, an app I generally avoid like the plague, when a post titled The NextDoor Incident caught my eye. I clicked the link which took me to Renny Madlena’s Substack. I don’t know Renny Madlena, but read and enjoyed his piece and was intrigued enough to delve further into his Substack (The Presence of Grace will tug at your heartstrings). I learned that Renny is 1) a writer, 2) an actor, 3) a local, 4) the cousin of an unnamed published writer, and 5) resembles Johnny Depp which is completely irrelevant to this story. Further investigation revealed that the unnamed writer cousin is Tony Hicks. Long story short, Renny’s Substack led to Tony’s book which led to Tony’s Substack which will become relevant shortly.
I read Tony’s book chronicling his battle with alcohol addicton. Not exactly lighthearted subject matter, but he navigates it with the same wit and humor, combined with engaging storytelling around the absurdities of everyday life, that earned him a loyal newspaper following.
Next I did a deep dive into Tony’s Substack (What the Hell Was I Doing There? & Who Tries Scamming Broke Book Authors?) and was disappointed to learn that our local bookstores aren’t supporting his book. What? I mean it’s not like he’s some Joe Schmoe peddling a vanity project. He’s a well-known local writer chronicling his very human experience with addiction and recovery, issues that touch millions of lives, if not directly than through family, friends, friends of friends. The book also sheds light on how our – fairly affluent – community deals with issues around addiction and homelessness which is eye opening to say the least.
Anyhoo, the lack of local support struck a nerve with me so I went to three local bookshops to inquire about the book. All three said they didn’t carry it, but could order it for me. I launched into my spiel … local author, well known voice in our community, blah, blah, blah. They looked at me like I was speaking in tongues. One actually said they recognized the book and had ordered it for others, and another told me an uncomfortable truth … that unless a book is supported by a fancy publisher and pushed by that publishers sales rep it was unlikely to find its way onto their shelves.
Let me get this straight, local book shops – who ask that we repudiate Amazon and shop local – are stocking their shelves with books pushed by the big publishing houses and can’t make room for a local author? Color me outraged.
Adding insult to injury, Amazon stocks the book and will deliver it to you day after tomorrow.
That’s a long way of saying, I loved this book … and discovered two new, very good Substacks.
Every Day I Read
Every Day I Read by Hwang Bo-Reum is a book about the joy of reading books, need I say more? I’d like to insert myself into its gorgeous cover art.
“Every Day I Read provides many quiet moments for introspection and reflection, encouraging book-lovers to explore what reading means to each of us. While this is a book about books, at its heart is an attitude to life, one outside capitalism and climbing the corporate ladder. Lifelong and new readers will take inspiration from it, including a treasure trove of book recommendations blended seamlessly within.”
Favorite Book Giveaway
Once again I’m kicking off the New Year with a book giveaway. Yay!
This year it’s two book bundles – two winners – each including all three of the above books.
To enter to win …
- You must be subscribed to the blog. If you’re not already, subscribe here.
- Leave a comment below with the title of your favorite book from last year.
- Entries (comments) must be made by 5:00pm on Thursday, January 8th. Two winners will be drawn on Friday, and announced in next Saturday’s dispatch. Winners will also be notified by email – I’ll need your mailing address!
Good luck!
Creekside Folly Update
There’s been quite a bit of progress at the little house now known as the creekside folly. I’ll explain another day. The framing is complete and we’ve been able to walk through both levels and get a feel for the size and scale of the rooms. More on that another day too.
Odds & Socks ~
Is it time to clean up your make-up drawer? What to keep, what to toss … famous makeup artist Joey Maalouf guides us through.
Saw this movie on Christmas Day and it’s so good. Oscar noms for all.
Watched this series on Netflix, first episode is a little slow, and then … holy moly.
Current Favorites ~
And that’s what I have for you today. I’m not sure I met my ‘say less’ goal, but we’ll work on that more next week.
Let’s see what’s inspiring Kim and Elizabeth.
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Best book of 2025: The Favorites!
I loved The Correspondent also! It was my favorite in 2025.
Loved the book Culpability by Bruce Holsinger.
Theo of Golden was my book of 2025.
I have two favorite reads of 2025:
My Friends by Fredrik Backman and James by Percival Everett.
I’m happy the. Log is back and hope you had a lovely break and holiday.
The Blog, typo sorry!
Go As A River – my favorite of 2025
Thank you!
My favorite book was Hamnit. Loved the book and the movie. Highly recommend.
Theo of Golden!
The Women by Kristen Hannah
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout was one of many. Thanks for the book recommendations and The Correspondent is on my list to read.
Ok…I still use an eyeshadow that I’ve probably had for 10 years!
Happy New Year! So glad you’re back!
Theo of Golden was my favorite book in 2025.
Favorite book 2025 “Broken Country” by Clare Leslie Hall.
Welcome back, Juliet, and happy new year! So nice to receive your email this morning.
The link to “what I’m reading now” doesn’t seem to be working. I’m in suspense!
I enjoyed The Correspondent. I think my favorite book read last year was Long Island by Colm Tobien. Or maybe Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden. Hard to pick just one!
Hope the new home construction is going well.
Hi Juliet! Welcome back! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season. Your mini boat & tote is an adorable gift idea. I spent more than the friend I was with thought I should on a perfectly worn LL Bean tote and I haven’t regretted it for a minute. Thanks for the book recommendations. I have heard so many great things about the Correspondent, so will definitely be adding that to my reading list. Your new home is really coming along! So exciting!
I remember that purchase, Molly. Worth every penny. Happy New Year! xo
Happy new year! I love biographies as well as novels, and I particularly like Kingmaker – a book about Pamela Harriman – this year.
I love biographies too … and really enjoyed Kingmaker! xo
Go As A River….loved it.
Hello Juliet!
Please enter me in the book giveaway! My favorite book last year was Buckeye by Patrick Ryan.
Love your blog. I always walk away with new ideas for books, movies, places to visit..daily life! Thank you for the time and effort to share what I am lazy about doing myself!!
My favorite books of 2025 were Frozen River and The Women…can’t get them out of my mind for all the ways they highlight unsung female stories.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore was my favorite book of 2025. I enjoy your blog and would love to receive the featured book bundle! Thank you!
My favorite book of the year was The Alchemist. It made me think of my life as a story. And took me away to a world I have still not explored. Fascinating. By Paulo Coelho.
Happy New Year. So glad you’re back. This was a tough year for reading for me, but the one book that comes to mind is “the correspondent”. Loved the main character and style.
I read so many good books this year, many I see mentioned in the comments here, but having to choose my favorite, I pick “GOOD DIRT”. Written by Charmaine Wilkerson. I have recommended it to many including my book club, and everyone loved it and it was a great discussion. I look forward to reading future books by this author (in fact I read her first book Black Cake after reading Good Dirt)
Book spans Africa, US, France and many generations. At the center of the book is a clay jar. I hope some of the readers of this comment also pick this book up and read; they’ll be glad the did.
Happy New Year, and I look forward to your upcoming posts
Glad you are back from your time off. My favorite book of 2025 was “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. Eye opening.
Good morning, so happy to see your post in my email this morning! Welcome back and happy new year. My favorite book last year was Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy. Can’t wait to see some updates about the Creekside Folly!
The Correspondent was a book I will always remember— enchanting and enthralling. It made me laugh and cry. I recently came upon a large pile of my own correspondence returned to me years ago by my late mother-in-law who had been the recipient. On that day she said to me, “You may enjoy rereading these”. The letters sat in a pile in a drawer in my house for years. They were full of sweet stories of a life I have never taken for granted, but many of the past events I had forgotten in the flurry of years. I am now typing them up in a book to pass on to my grown children and grandchildren. All because of one delightful book I read in 2025…
Linda, that’s so lovely and I know your family will appreciate your efforts for generations to come. Writing – and receiving – letters – was such a wonderful feeling. And I say was because it’s so rare these days. I have a treasure trove of letters between my parents from the early years of their marriage while my father was at sea. And as a bundle from my high school sweetheart when he left for college. Both bundles are so dear to me. Good luck in the drawing! xo
My favorite book last year was My Friends by Fredrik Backman with Heartwood (Amity Gaige) and Wild Dark Shore (Charlotte McConaghy) close behind! Glad you’re back blogging!
Happy New Year! I picked ‘The Queen Who Came In From The Cold’ up from the library yesterday and can’t wait to start it today! I loved ‘June in the Garden’ and ‘Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine’, along with the other S. J. Bennett books, the Marlow Murder Club and Thursday Murder Club mysteries, ‘We Solve Murders,’ and ‘Murder Before Evensong’. Looking forward to more adventures with the Rev. Canon Clement this year. In December, I also enjoyed reading Jenny Bayliss’ books, especially ‘Season for Second Chances’ and ‘Meet Me Under the Mistletoe,’ with candles, Christmas lights and music playing in the background. And in thinking over my list now, I’ve realized that they are all written by British authors and that they very kindly gave me excellent armchair escapes to London and the British countryside…
Cozy British mysteries are the best! xo
Glad to see you back. I loved Beast in Me too! My favorite book this year was a sleeper called “The Berry Pickers” by Amanda Peters.
I love your book recommendations. My favorite book last year was On Looking; Eleven Walks With Expert Eyes by Alexandra Horowitz. She is an expert in dog cognition and has written excellent books on the topic. My favorite is Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell and Know.
Kim Johnson
Hello & Happy New Year!
My favorite book of 2025 was The Invisible Life of Addie Larue, by V.E. Schwab.
Deb Robinson
Welcome back!! I love your writing!!
I’m looking forward to seeing the progress on the house!
Agreed Song Sung Blue was excellent!
My two favorite books of 2025 were probably The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon and Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. Welcome back! I can’t wait to see the progress on your new home.
Going to clean out my make up today! Have missed your posts!
Love your Boat &Tote gift idea. I will be gifting more than a few this year! Thank you!
Favorite book of 2025 was March by Geraldine Brooks. Such a great read!
Oh, I’d love to win the stack of books! I tried adding Lying Drunk to my library list and – horrors – our very large Portland library system doesn’t carry it. Maybe it’s the publisher issue, maybe the thing with Baker & Taylor closing down. Sigh.
My fave book from 2025: The Boleyn Traitor by Philippa Gregory. I didn’t think she had another Tudor book in her, but she always finds a way! Love me an historical fiction from the female point of view
PS: the dance scene from The Beast in Me! IYKYK!
Chris, thanks for checking with your library. I did the same, and our local library doesn’t have it either. Oof. They sent me a link to make the request that they add it which I did. It’s amazing the uphill battles that first time authors face. As for The Beast in Me … I know exactly what you mean! xo
My favorite book was Verity by Colleen Hoover. It kept me guessing the entire time. The ending was so far from what I imagined.
My favorite book of 2025 was “My Beloved” by my favorite author, Jan Karon.
Joanne Harris also published a prequel to Chocolate (one of my favorites) – Vianne. Enjoyed this backstory.
Currently reading “Theo of Golden” which is lovely.
Happy New Year, Juliet!
My favorite read of ‘25 was ‘The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies’ by Alison Goodman — lots of fun w/ a bit of social commentary.
‘The Creekside Folly’ sounds scary-intriguing… building is always SOME kind of adventure, and seemingly always about what you do not YET know!
Exactly, Joan. I’m learning more things I don’t know every day! xo
Didn’t get to read too much this past year but I did read “ The View From Mary’s Farm “ by Edie Clark. A collection of essays from former writer at Yankee magazine. Sweet and heartwarming. And thank you Juliet for all you do through your wonderful blog.
Barbara, thanks for the book suggestion. Looks like The View from Mary’s Farm is no longer in print … but I’ll check a few resale sites. Happy New Year! xo
Loved Blue Maya A Memoir of Survival by Brenda Coffee
Happy New Year Juliet! So glad to see your post in my email. Please reconsider your concise goal, I love your writing and look forward to your newsletter every week!
Favorite book of 2025:
The Correspondent
Runner-Up: Sipsworth (published in 2024 but I just read in 2025)
Thanks, Amanda, I appreciate your kind words. xo
Juliet, welcome back! I hope you don’t get less wordy, I thoroughly enjoy every word you write.
My absolute favorite book last year was The Women by Kristin Hannah. The Vietnam War was a major influence during my childhood which made this novel even more meaningful.
The Women seems to be a popular mention … I’m going to order it! xo
Hey glad you’re back!
My favorite read was the same as others with The Correspondent, plus I loved Culpability and Wild Dark Shore. Currently reading The Art of a Lie by Laura Shepard Robinson which is great!
Please don’t cut down too much on the ramblings, I find them fun.
Happy New Year!
Thanks, Dani … I’m sure I won’t be able to help myself rambling on! Happy New Year! xo
My favorite book was the Correspondent! And Theo of Golden and Culpability !
Gayle … these three books are very popular! xo
When I take a break from serial killers, crime and thrillers here are a few faves from this year:
Eddie Winston is looking for Love
How to Read a Book
My Friends
Saving Simon-about a donkey!
Thank you for the wonderful year of thoughtful posts.
Elle … I adore crime, thrillers and serial killers. Not necessarily in that order. I appreciate the Saving Simon recommendation. Happy New Year! xo
I enjoyed reading Remarkably Bright Creatures. I struggled with The Covenant of Water though.
Juliet..glad you have taken a little time to slow down. I also love the week after Christmas where we finally have time to enjoy our surroundings and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
My favorite book this past year was The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Phillip Sendker. (then the second follow up book A Well Tempered Heart Both were outstanding..The kind of book you want to read over and over. If you haven’t read them please do. Happy New Year!
Adding to my reading list, Carole … happy new year! xo
I just finished The Correspondent and loved it! A close second would be “The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr. I so look forward to your post every week and following the progress of Creekside Folly. Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! xo
The Correspondent, The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife and Theo of Golden
Thanks for the book recommendations. I loved The Correspondent too. Exciting about your home!!
Aren’t books a comforting friend in this crazy world?!
– The Women, by Kristin Hannah. Also found her The Four Winds captivating.
– The Radcliffe Ladies’ Reading Club, a novel by Julia Bryan Thomas, explores 1955 college friendships and a bookshop owner who harbors and inspires these struggling women.
Books certainly are comforting. I love the old quote about never being g alone as long as you have books.Happy New Year! xo
Juliet, I love your blog, it’s the highlight of my Saturday mornings. Please do not say ‘less’! Whoever told you to say less, it less of a person! Carry on! Pamm
Pamm … I appreciate you! Happy New Year xo
Welcome back. Thanks for sharing the tote gift idea. I like it. Also, I have read The Correspondent and it is in my top 3 Best Books of 2025. I plan on seeing Song Sung Blue very soon and will definitely check out The Donkey King. Looking forward to hearing more about the Folly.
I enjoyed The Women by Kristin Hannah. I enjoy your blog don’t cut it too short in the new year.
Enjoyed many books last year, especially James, a Romantic Comedy, Here One Moment, and listening to Tom Lake.
Happy New Year!
So glad you’re back! Happy New Year Juliet!
As you know, The Correspondent was my fave for the year but a couple that were SO SO GOOD as well…Theo of Golden and Broken Country! Super fun watching your creekside folly updates!! Love You! Kymmie
Happy New Year! My favorite book in 2025 was Wild Dark Shore. A close second was The Lost Women of Tehran.
My favorite book of 2025 was THEO OF GOLDEN by Allen Levi. It is such a heartwarming story!!
My favorite is Notes on Grief by Chimamanda Ngozi Adidcheie. Our oldest son thoughtfully gifted it to me for Christmas.
My favorite book of 2025 was The Women.
Love following your posts. By far my favorite book of 2025 was “The Next Day” by Melinda Gates.
Theo of Golden
Happy New Year! My favorite book from last year was A Man With One of Those Faces by Caimh McDonnell.
my favorite book in 2025 was Buckeye
Hi Juliet,
You have been missed. It’s so good to take time out and immerse yourself into books. It helps on so many levels, most important it helps your mind not turn into mush.
I enjoyed Maya Blue, by Brenda Coffee. It’s a memoir of survival. A page turner.
Wow, it’s so exciting to watch your little home bring built in Lafayette. I look forward to following your journey.
Happy healthy everything in the new year.
Happy New Year, Katherine, and thank you for your lovely Christmas card! xoxo
Happy New Year Juliet! Never worry about saying less, I enjoy reading every word! Best book of 2025 was Black Wolf by Louise Penney, love her whole series!
Thanks, Marysue … I appreciate your kindness. xo
Welcome back Juliet!!!
I hope that you had an amazing Christmas!
NEVER say less! You are a witty and amazing write and we all love your posts! Mine is already filled with daily essentials!
The little totes are the perfect gift! You are so thoughtful.
Donkey King sounds fascinating and I am looking forward to watching it.
Books…I can never read or have enough. I have read the comments 3 times and taken notes at the ones I missed this year!
Love your giveaway! And your sweet cottage.
Have a wonderful weekend and a very happy New Year.
Happy New Year! Always enjoy your insights on everything!
A great book that I read this year was “My Friends” by Fredrik Backman.And also “Wedding People”
Thank you.
K
My favorite book was The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. Our entire Book Club enjoyed it, and that’s not easy to accomplish.
Wow … that really is something! xo
So happy to have you and Kim back! Happy New Year!
My hands down favorite book of 2025 was This is Happiness by Niall Williams. I’m an avid reader, so when I say a book was life-altering it is quite the declaration. It filled me with joy and gratitude in a year that was challenging and difficult. I also loved The Correspondent.
How wonderful that you are championing a local writer!
Wow, Sarah, that’s quite a recommendation … adding to my reading list! xo
Sarah! You won one of the book bundles. I sent you an email to get your mailing address, but haven’t heard back. Just want to check in to make sure you got it. Let me know … and congrats! xo
My favorite read of 2025 was THE LION WOMEN OF TEHRAN—I absolutely LOVED that book and learned so much about that culture!
A couple people mentioned this one, Patti. Thank you! xo
Welcome back and great post today. I think the mini tote bag is a great gift idea!
I’ve heard so much about The Correspondent, I must read it.
Thanks@
Oops, forgot my favorite book. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett.
The best book I read in 2025 was Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver. It takes place in a community very different from mine and deals with drug addiction so was difficult at times but it was very enlightening and the end of the book is hopeful rather than depressing.
Happy New Year, Juliet! I’m so happy you’re back-my Saturday’s feel off when you’re on vacation.
My favorite book of 2025 was the first installment of the Cher autobiography (I’ve been a fan of hers all my life!). I’m interested in checking out the books on your list. How sad about the local bookstores not supporting local authors. Good for you, giving them your spiel!
Hi Janet! I loved it too and can’t wait for the second installment. Happy New Year! xo
I have several favorite books released in 2025, but the one that stands out (due to my admiration for the author’s courage, strength, and integrity) is a memoir titled “Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism” by Sarah Wynn-Williams, a former director of public policy at Facebook (now Meta).
Thank you for this excellent post; you’re my favorite blogger and I’m delighted you’re back with content that is always interesting and inspirational. Happy New Year!
Pamela … thank you for your kinds words. I enjoyed Carless People too … quite an eye opener. Happy New Year! xo
Happy New Year!
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Happy New Year!
My favorite book last year was The Women by Kristin Hannah:).
Happy New Year! So glad to have you back. Keep on rambling! Love what you share with us. Can’t wait to hear more about Creekside Folly! I’m sure there’s a great story there! Love the tote idea. Some of those scarves look like they have some embroidery on them. Did you do that embellishment? My favorite books were The Women by Kristin Hannah and Remarkably Bright Creatures. A guilty pleasure book was Queen of the Road by Heidi Heath Tony. I hate to admit it, but it was fun to imagine a “Martha Stewart” as a truck driver.
Deanna … aren’t those scarves pretty? And they are embroidered, but they came that way. Thanks for the book recommendations … Martha as a truck driver. That sounds very interesting! xo
Welcome back! I enjoy you rambling so concise is♀️My favorite book is actually a series that my book club is reading. The Lost Lake series by Kate Hewitt. The third and last in the series is our pick for February. Thanks for a chance to win your selections.
Sorry but I really like your previous writing style, even with the occasional elongated musings. Your in-depth descriptions enable me (and probably quite a few other readers) to envision your stories beyond the visuals. Please reconsider, Juliet.
Janis … thank you so much and Happy New Year! xo
Happy New Year, Juliet! I find it absurd that a local bookshop will not stock a local writers book because it’s not backed by one of the big publishing houses. Do they not see the hypocrisy of that? Good for you for making some noise about that! My favorite book of 2025 was “Weyward” by Emilia Hart. I enjoy your posts and don’t think you are too wordy-I remember a negative nellie from last year commented that. I enjoy chatty blogs 🙂
Sandy … I know! Hypocrisy rans rampant these days. Thanks for your book recommendation and kind words on my rambling style! xo
Hi Juliet, I just discovered your blog today courtesy of Pinecones and Acorns. Love your content and the wonderful book recommendations. I have always favored local bookstores as well vs. big box stores and disappointed in how few still exist in my area of the PNW. I actually purchase from a few located in various states just to support. one of my favorite reads from last year was the memoir written by Ina Garten, such an interesting read about her life and career. Have a wonderful week ahead!
Karyn! Welcome … I’m so glad you’re here! I loved Ina’s autobiography too. And I love – and appreciate – your support of local books stores. I learned about a new source this week that supports local bookstores and I’ll share it this weekend. Thanks for entering the giveaway … I’m so glad you found your way here. xo
I’ve not read any of those books. I am #96 in line at our local library for The Correspondent! And, the do not carry Lying Drunk. Thank you for your continued reading recommendations! Happy 2026 –
Please don’t get too concise Juliet!! I love your writing and look forward to your posts very much! One of my favorite things of 2025 was learning about Oscar’s Place from you, and I am now a regular donor. Will definitely check out Donkey King. Favorite book of the year — an old one, The Lady and The Monk by Pico Iyer.
I loved all your recommendations, thank you! My favorite book of 2025 was The Avatar by Jonathan Cahn.
Glad you are back and had a good break, Some
great book ideas for this year, as I mostly read
light topics, happy endings and the good guys
win! ..Please don’t stop your writing style and go
concise, that advice if given, missed the enjoyment
most of your readers love. As mentioned in the
comments the “elongated musings” are what I
look forward too. Please don’t change…..
My fave book of 2025 was Three Hours in Paris by Cara Black. It’s not new – I can’t stop thinking about it. Happy New Year!
Hi Juliet,
So nice to have you back! Always enjoy reading your blog….it’s casual and light, like having a conversation over coffee. Don’t change anything!
My favorite book from 2025 was Tilt by Emma Pattee – recommended to me by the food writer from my local newspaper. I’m excited to check out the books you suggested too.
Your new build sounds so exciting, and will fly by quickly. Looking forward to hearing about the finishes and furnishings coming up. It’s a great reminder to go through our makeup and cosmetics. I already sorted through mine, because I can only recall about a year out when I last purchased items! Especially important for eye makeup.
Wishing you a Happy New Year!
A Woman in the Polar Night by Christiane Ritter. Written almost 100 years ago and simply superb.
Juliet! How was I not already on your email list!? Just joined! Such a lovely giveaway! Everyone is raving about The Correspondent! Did you happen see Katie Couric’s post?
Hi Juliet! Sorry I’m so late to comment here. I just love those boat totes and what a cute idea to make it into a stocking placeholder!! I’m going to get one of these for my niece who turns 30 in February. I just love mine and I know I will use it so much.
I’m putting the donkey show on my list. Those donkeys look so adorable… it’s really nice that you and Jim support them.
It’s so disappointing to hear that local bookstores are using large publishers to order their books? I remember reading Tony Hicks column in the Mercury News so I’m intrigued by the book and the two others. I’ve heard a lot of good things about The correspondent. I’ll check out the Substacks too.
I switched to getting my books at Barnes & Noble when I can’t go to the small bookstore route or find it through the library system. I won’t do Amazon, no matter what. You think these small bookstores would really care about getting local authors in!
My favorite books read last year were Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand, and We Might Just Make it After All.
You have inspired me so much ! I am working on a few books now and that’s part of my 2026 goal to get through more. I will put these on my list.
Also I concur, please don’t be cutting back!!
Say more! I love your writing and your blog.
xoxo
Please don’t shorten your posts!!! I love everything you share with us!
My favorite book I read last year was Theo of Golden
Thanks for the TV recommendation! Sounds like something Steve would love! I have heard so many good things about the Correspondent!!
I need to add another book I just finished. With red, teary eyes and a red, runny nose I add That’s Not How It Happened by Craig Thomas. A lovely book about unique people and love. A quick yet uplifting read that we can all use right now. Time to blow my schnozz…
Thanks for sharing Elle … sounds like a good one! xo
MY GIVEAWAY ENTRY … A story to explain….
After a bit of a frustrating hiatus from reading , due to back to back cataract surgeries last spring and the wait to be evaluated for a new prescription for my reading glasses( which was initially wrong) , I finally got back to reading by mid summer .
I picked up a few books in anticipation of reading them prior to my trip through the Yorkshire Dales, and reading a couple while there. I was staying in Grassington ( Darrowby in “All Creatures Great and Small”) and being driven about this beautiful part of Yorkshire with an amazing fellow as my guide. One book that I particularly enjoyed post trip was by Alf White ( James Herriot) THE LORD GOD MADE THEM ALL which takes place in and around the clinic at Skeldale House in Darrowby when James and Helen now have two children , who are keen on accompanying their veterinarian father on calls. It’s from the latter part of a series .
Visiting this area, where I stopped at so many of the places used when filming the series, was just so wonderful.
I also read a new Kate Atkinson and Anne Cleeves , both exceptional authors whose characters live in the Yorkshire area. Somehow being within the area of the book’s setting
made my reading that much more interesting. There is a new local bookshop where I take my books to for credit on purchases. My next drop off will be the more recent Ian Rankin books , with aging John Rebus who has now left Scottish Police. Juliet, your 2026 choices look like extremely interesting reads.
The Lord Gods Made Them All
Cath! I’m so glad you’re recovered and back to reading. What an amazing trip … I need to watch the series (I know, where have I been?) and read all the books. Thanks for entering and good luck! xo
So it’s official? The new house is Creekside Folly? I love it.
Thanks for the reading suggestions. I am always looking for a next book.
I think coming up with a brilliant gift idea and doing it in multiples is a great idea. Why not include a team of friends and family when it’s a sure fire winner? Well done. And I always have a scarf tied to my canvas totes which usually serves as my purse anyway.
Best in 2026, J!
Hi Juliet,
My favorite book is usually the one I read last! That was “Sandwich” by Catherine Newman #59 for the year. I want to get up to 75 books this year, less screen time, more books!
BTW Your cottage is coming along nicely!
Happy New Year,
Xo Heidi
Theo of Golden was my favorite book this year. I would be absolutely thrilled to receive your book bundle!!
Glad to have you back, after your Blog break. Looking forward to following along with Creekside Folly.
My favorite book of 2025 was Broken Country.
Happy New Year!
This is a popular one, Janice. Happy New Year! xo
Favorite read of 2025 was The Unwedding by Allie Condie.
Happy New Year and welcome back!
Thanks for sharing the Donkey King and your favorite reads.
As a fellow Bay Area resident, I appreciate all the local topics you share on your blog. You have inspired me to return to reading. I have been waiting for the Correspondent on Libby for months and look forward to reading it. Thanks for sharing Tony Hicks’ Lying Drunk and the eye-opening story in your search for the book in your local bookstores. I am going to see if I can find it at one of my local shops. I enjoyed Be Ready When Luck Happens by Ina Garten in 2025. Love her recipes and approach to cooking.
Leigh … I loved Ina’s book too. So much I may read it again. Happy New Year! xo
I am so excited to read The Correspondent!
Hello, and I love the mini tote idea! The French Ingredient was my fave this year, next to the Thursday Murder Club lol.