Archive for November, 2010

This book is a fast read, but oh so deep. I loved how the writer played off the characters’names. It is a sad, but also REAL story.
The Economic Impacts of

I enjoyed this book but did not feel it quite lived up to the high ratings I based my purchase on. Part of its appeal was the promise of a circus story. And the story was very realistic in some ways, detailing how difficult and unrewarding (not to mention very dangerous)that life could be.

Some of the most interesting and moving parts of the book were actually those that took place in the nursing home that Jacob now lives in, remembering his youth with the circus. The author did a great job in describing the sadness, loneliness and other problems that befall the very aged. Especially those nearly forgotten by their families. Their cold treatment at the hands of people who barely see these elderly souls as human is all too real, having witnessed this myself when working in this type of facility. And another reason why I got out of nursing.

The love story was so-so, and years were wrapped up too quickly, at least for my taste. I looked forward to more stories of Jacob as the circus veterinarian. There was alot of potential there for interesting and moving stories about the animals, but that aspect was barely touched upon. Rather it was more about Jacob’s obsession with the beautiful Marlena.

I loved many of the interesting characters, but always felt I did not quite know them in spite of their frequent appearances throughout the story. Walter the dwarf as an example. He was one of my favorite characters. I found myself wanting more of his own story, but it wasn’t there.

I would recommend this as a light summer read, but would not look for more than an interesting diversion and brief look into the world of the circus folk when the animals were still transported by train and when the circus coming to town was the biggest news of the month.
Night Lights

Video Head Cleaner

No failure yet. Transfer rate between takes is acceptable but is hard to tell if it is the card or my camera.
DURAGADGET Water Resistance Laptop

THIS REALLY WORKS, AS LONG AS YOU KEEP UP WITH IT. IT GETS DOWN AND DOES A GREAT JOB!!! I OWN A GOLDEN RETRIEVER AND IT DOES A GREAT JOB.
USB Wireless Optical Mouse

I really enjoyed this book. One of my all time favorites. After reading it, I became interested in circus/ carnival documentaries. I entertained myself with this subject for about 3 months. True carny people really love the life. Fascinating.
1 8 Inch Micro

I bought this because it got a high rating in Consumer Reports. I’m used to pedometers that you just open and use. This one takes a bit of time. You have to use a tool to open the back to insert the battery, set the time, determine your stride, put in your weight. It was frustrating and took a few tries. Now that it’s all set up I really like it. The steps go back to 0 every 24 hours and it’s quite comfortable to wear.
Nikon HB 1 Lens

What’s not to like?

Have used this for a month now. Performance just like higher priced cables.

Same performance as more expenseive cables with lower cost. Don’t wait to buy it!
Waring 21 Stainless Steel

Food Processor 12 Cup

We purchased one of these for ourselves and have liked it so much we bought three more to give as Christmas gifts. It does not slip off of the dashboard – and ours rode from Maine to Florida and back without any problems. You’ll love it!!!
20th Century Masters The