We had a nice visit with Frankie and Barb on Saturday. Frankie had an accident that left her back legs paralyzed. Vets advised Barb that Frankie had only a 30% chance of walking again. When it was determined that Frankie would not be one of the fortunate 30%, Barb began extensive research to find ways to make life as normal for Frankie as possible. Frankie was outfitted with a wheelchair. You should see her zip around in that little vehicle! There are also daily therapy, exercise and massage sessions. It all has paid off. I wish you could have been here to see how happy Frankie is. Barb herself is quite an inspiration. She is a gentle person, who you just know would go to the nth degree in any situation before giving up. She speaks both emotionally and realistically about Frankie's situation. Frankie shares Barb's compassionate spirit, and together they visit schools and elder care facilities.
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Did I mention that I'm reading Sarah Waters' The Little Stranger? I grabbed it thinking it would be a light Halloween read, nothing special, but still appropriate for the season. Well, if you are a Bronte fan, particularly a fan of Wuthering Heights, I am sure you would like this book. It has just the right amount of mystery, and enough creepiness to keep the pages turning. Who can resist dark, Gothic homes, narrow, echoing hallways, and stern matriarchs wearing black veils of Spanish lace? Throw in an antagonist named Roderick and you have shades of Poe's The Fall of the House of Usher just to keep things interesting.
At this point, I'm not sure what the central issue is shaping up to be, but I suspect the story may revolve around a 14 year servant who wants to leave because the house troubles her. Of course, in good British manor mysteries, she has no where else to turn, so she has to stay with this unsettling family, in a house that no doubt will be revealing secrets shortly. I'll keep you posted.
Not much else to report except that I have been enjoying this exceptional weather and wishing it could stay like this until April.
Thanks for stopping by.
