I can’t believe I almost forgot that today was National Booklover’s Day! Did you? Anyone buy any books to celebrate? I didn’t do any book shopping this weekend but I am in the middle of four great reads so I thought I’d tell you about those.

First off yes, I’m still reading Devotions by Mary Oliver. I am reading this one in small doses because I feel like I may miss something if I go too quickly. So it may take me quite a bit more time but it’s well worth it. I think I mentioned before that the only thing I regret is that I have a Kindle version and would much prefer to have an actual copy.

My other read is The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte translated by Sonia Soto. Lucas Corso is a book detective, hired to hunt down rare editions for wealthy and unscrupulous clients. What will prove to be his most challenging case is authenticating a manuscript by Alexandre Dumas. This book is a bit slow going but it’s really a fun adventure and I feel like I need to re-read The Three Musketeers or something else by Dumas. This also happens to be one of my reads for Spanish Literature Month.

I also started reading Hurricane Season by Fernanda Melchor and translated by Sophie Hughes which could also count for Spanish Literature and Women in Translation Month. Although there are not many paragraph breaks and dialogue marks, I don’t have an issue keeping up with the story. What does give me pause is the violence and misery that surrounds the villagers in this small Mexican town where there doesn’t seem to be much hope for better things. That said, I have no idea where the story is going and I can’t wait to see what develops.

Finally for my mystery I picked up, A Killer In King’s Cove by Iona Whishaw. WWII has ended and Lane Winslow leaves London for change of pace and moves to British Columbia to a small town where she’ll be surrounded by an eclectic mix of characters. I just started it last night so a bit too soon to tell but I hope it will be good. I’m discussing this one with my Mystery Book Group next week.

Let me know if you’ve read any of these and what you thought. Also, thank you so much for your comments in my previous post. I’ve really enjoyed reading about what brings you joy and we’ll have to continue to share with each other to keep us going through these crazy times. Hope you all have a great start of the week!

I used to do these quick little posts and I realized it’s been a while since I posted a happiness post. I think especially right now it’s good to remember all those little things that bring me joy and maybe you’ll want to check them out too.

A refreshing drink. I don’t like plain mineral water but I realize I really like it when it has a flavor. This has become an afternoon favorite.

Cherries. Another favorite snack and just look at all the health benefits.

I also love enjoying a cold brew during the hot summer days. I’ve tried a lot of brands but Stok is so far my favorite.

Have you heard of Relax Melodies? I’m hooked on these. I love taking a nap with the soft sounds of a river or rain in the background. I listen to these at least 2 -3 times a week.

My husband surprised me with the Breathe: Puzzle and Games Special edition magazine. I enjoy crosswords but don’t really do the other puzzles but this magazine has some really cute graphics and articles. So it has ended up being a fun discovery.

Finally, I just heard that the Texas Book Festival is going virtual this year. I’m so glad that the organizers are not going to let the pandemic keep them from bringing good reads to Texas.

Would love to hear what is bringing you joy lately. Have a wonderful weekend!