If you read books and would like suggestions, the comment section under this post is full of book recommendations from blogorinos. I encourage you to browse comments and to add your own . . . . well, after you read the post, of course!
Part One of “Library Cards While On The Road” . . . .
A few posts ago, when Reggie and I are at Poverty Flats, I excitedly report that I obtained a library card at the Moapa Valley Library in Overton, Nevada, and that I checked out several DVDs for evening entertainment. I think I got seven DVDs good for seven nights. Something like that.
Sweet.
In the blog comments following my library card announcement, readers suggest a further benefit of such a marvelous acquisition.
“RVSue! Now you can use the card to download books from that library wherever you are!”
Thus, after moving to another camp, I go online to try downloading free books from the Moapa Valley Library. Visions of book jackets dance in my head.
I’m so happy, I’m so happy, I’m as happy as happy can beeeeee! . . . What?
My card is not accepted.
I try several times and a message pops up each time: “Contact your library.” I spring to the phone to see what is the matter.
The librarian succinctly explains that downloading books to an e-reader or computer is for resident cardholders only.
Well, how very disappointing.
On the bright side, I do see this message on the back of my library card:
“The Nevada library card may be used at any participating library in the state.”
Well, how very nice.
Part Two of “Library Cards While On The Road” . . . .
Reggie and I are presently camped near Blythe, California. We go into town and I obtain a Palo Verde Valley library card.
Yay! Okay, now to pick out some DVDs . . . . Wait . . . What’s this?
I read the sign by the check-out desk. I paraphrase: “You may check out one DVD at a time, for one day only, and for the price of one dollar.”
Well, how very disappointing.
I don’t want to complain, but I am compelled to make a point.
As gently and politely as I’m capable, I mention to the woman at the desk that the policy is okay for someone who lives in town.
For someone like me, however, the policy requires that I make two round-trips into town on consecutive days for a total of 44 miles on the road. Sure, I can combine one of those round-trips to the library with other errands, but not again the very next day.
The library woman has a solution.
“Do what some people do. Check out a DVD on Saturday. Since we’re closed on Sunday and you can’t return it that day, you can keep it until six o’clock on Monday,” she suggests, smiling brightly.
Oh, wow. Okay.
I tell you this story to illustrate that you will encounter different policies as you travel from one library system to another. The library in Overton spoiled me!
As for Reggie, he thinks the library in Blythe is super! It has grass and trees where he can play!
Well, that’s great, Reggie!
On the homefront . . . .
In the previous post I tell you about the strong wind and blowing dust situation here at Midland Long-Term Visitor Area. It’s still windy today, but not all the time and not nearly as strong. The sky is pale blue and clear of clouds, the sun is bright, and the temperatures are in the 50s and 60s during the day. Chilly, but I’m not complaining. It IS winter.
Rusty and Lady Piper are camped near us.
At sunset yesterday, when the wind finally abated, Reggie and I walk over for a visit. Throughout the day Lady Paper watched the Best Little Trailer for any sign of life.
Lady Piper is outside a lot. She likes this chilly weather!
“C’mon, Reg. Let’s go over for a visit!”
Piper perks up as we come closer to her camp.
Rocketman launches into orbit!
In the next post . . .
Finally the refrigerator situation will be resolved. A plan is in progress that will bring the delights of refrigeration back to the Best Little Trailer! More about that in the next post!
rvsue
NOTE: How does one access books and movies while on the road?
You can download books from amazon.com for free or at the lower kindle price. Book sites like gutenburg.org or bookbub.com offer free and low-priced books, too. Movies can be streamed through Amazon, Netflix, and others.
RV parks, campgrounds and dispersed camping areas may have a lending library where you can borrow or trade books. Sometimes RVers trade books and DVDs between themselves. Of course, low-cost books and DVDs may be found at thrift stores, too.
If you know additional ways to access books and DVDs, I hope you will share in the comments section. Do you have a book or movie to recommend?
ANOTHER NOTE: This post is NOT a complaint against the library in Blythe. Their strict policy is in response to frequent thefts of DVDs. — Sue
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That Piper is one beautiful dog! But Reggie has the market cornered on cute!
I agree, denimlady! CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING FIRST TODAY!
Woo hoo!
My little librarian’s heart loves hearing about library services and reading in general.
You’re a librarian! Hi, Pat… You probably told us that before and I forgot. SECOND PLACE TODAY!
Goood morning!
Good afternoon, Lee J.! A TIE FOR SECOND PLACE!
Hello from icy cold Indiana!
Hello back atcha’ Rochelle! MAY OBTAINING THIRD PLACE WARM YOU! 🙂
Hi Sue and Reggie
I use my hometown library card and check out ebooks and magazines. I also use Kindle and the Megareader app for classics.
Have you looked into a library card from where your home state is? More and more libraries are offering this-mine uses the Overdrive app.
Safe travels.
Hi, Geneva,
I’ve been meaning to see about a library card from South Dakota (Box Elder/Pennington County). If the proof of identification isn’t difficult, that may be the answer for downloading from a library.
Yes, Overdrive is the app that rejected my card from the Overton library. Here’s the megareader site for that app.
I went to the Rapid City Library District site and read the following on the card application page:
“Post office boxes, personal mailbox services and commercial mail service addresses may be used as mailing addresses but do not constitute verification of a physical residence.” 🙁
I don’t see why libraries are so picky about full-timers using OverDrive. After all, the library gets credit for the checkouts. I was librarian at our local public library until I retired at the end of August and we had at least one full-timing couple registered as patrons and using it. Also people living in CA, TX and another area of this state. I think it all depends on library or consortium policies. I CAN see why libraries might not want to loan out actual books & DVDs to temporary visitors without a local being the responsible party. Those things can disappear all to easily.
Sue, a tax return, a vehicle registration, a social security letter or a medicare or insurance card with that address should help in getting a library card. You might have to press it, but you should press it even if you have to go to the Library Director. I say this as a retired Public Library Director, one who realized very quick that TAX PAYER, even if it just payment of car/trailer taxes and registrations, help fund the library.
My reply to Sherry…. scroll way down… explains why it would be very unlikely I’d be successful. The mail forwarding address (my legal address) is well known by the library.
Cold here, too, Sue. I hate cold.
Hi, Cat Lady…. So readers will know where you say it’s cold… That’s Louisiana.
i believe i may be in the top ten today!!!! Nice post — that Reggie is a barrel of fun isnt he–
Hi, Jenny! If you don’t mind me asking…. What is your general location?
BookBub is another inexpensive way to download books. If you join you will get a daily email listing Kindle books for $1.99 or less.
Hi, Grannysonthego! Good to see you here!
There’s another site similar to BookBub that sends an email, too. The name is ebooks or something similar.
freebooksy?
Yes! freebooksy.com
I want to be where YOUR cold is. It was 15 this morning and finally crawled past the freezing mark as I write this. Keep fingers and toes crossed, and prayers going that I can get outta here after Christmas!
As for entertainment I have an assortment of movies downloaded to watch off-line from Amazon and Netflix and hundreds of books I have on my Kindle that I haven’t gotten around to reading yet. I believe I can download e-books from my home library no matter where I am.
The Lady Piper — I have to agree with the person above; that’s one gorgeous dog! I also agree that the Reginator has the prize for cute. Now, now Chinweenie Brothers, I mean that Reggie gets the prize right behind you. In my heart and eyes at least. 🙂 So I guess that’s second place. Hugs to Reggie (he’s cuter than cute, but I’m not saying that out loud! )
You’re the one who’s cute, Shawna! 🙂 Thank you for complimenting Reggie. I hope you and the “Brothers” have warmer weather soon…
Okay, since you have hundreds of books…. Care to make a book suggestion for us? I’d love to see a thread of blogorinos’ favorite books!
Just remember, you asked for this! 🙂
One of my favorites right off the top of my head is The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker. Lots of ladies have a fear of being “out there” alone and this former detective’s advice is sound.
I loved Marley and Me, ANYTHING by Jennifer Weiner — she is so funny.
Escaping the Arroyo by Joyce Nance, survival account based on a true story.
If you like horror stories anything by Blake Crouch will keep you up at night.
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen.
Whisper My Secret: A Memoir by JB Rowley, tells the author’s story of her life before Harry Potter.
Gone Girl: A Novel, Gillian Flynn.
The 19th Wife, David Ebershoff; interesting novel about Mormons, their life, their views, their history.
The Last Romanov, Dora Levy Mossanen.
I re-read The Wind in the Willows every few years.
That’s just a small sampling of the ones I have enjoyed. I have many classics downloaded that I want to read or reread at some point. My Kindle is also full of How-to books, cookbooks, reference books, and many historical accounts of life in the 1800s.
Your long list of books is wonderful, Shawna! Thank you for taking the time to post it here!
Cracker Barrel Restaurants have DVDs you can check out at one then return to a different one. Most of them also have free overnight parking.
Wow… I never heard of that before, Linda. The DVD loan is a clever idea!
They have DVD’s now? I knew they had audiobooks, but it’s good to know they have DVD’s too.
Another option that may work is to download an app called Overdrive. I use it on my iPad and iOhone to download audio and eBooks from the three library systems that I have cards for. In the app I enter my card number and password which then opens access to browse that library’s digital collection. I believe there is also an android version and Overdrine.com is also available online – I use that access point from my laptop.
Similar to Bookbub.com is another site called Freebooksy.com
Dang should have read all the comments first – sorry for the double post about Overdrive 😋
No big deal… Happens all the time. 🙂
Overdrive is the one that rejected my library card because I’m not a resident. If you have a resident card, it’s great!
Our methods cost a chunk of money up front, so they’re probably not a good fit for most, but wanted to mention for those who are looking for options.
We’re not RV’ing yet, but we’re actively planning to go full-time next year.
E-books: I impulsively signed up for a year of Kindle Unlimited when it was on sale on Black Friday, and we already had Amazon Prime, which is good for free fast shipping and movie/tv streaming. I borrow e-books with Amazon’s new free Prime Lending, and I download 10 books at a time with Kindle Unlimited membership. So that takes care of e-books.
Movies/TV: we download free Prime Videos on our tablet with a wifi connection (if you’re traveling you can use a hotspot) and later we send them to the TV using “screen sharing” (or connected with a cable, depending on the TV) without needing an internet connection. You must have Amazon prime, a tablet, and a compatible TV. Netflix just started the same service for downloading and offline viewing.
It’s really a bummer that you can’t download e-books from the local libraries. What difference would it really make whether you’re a resident or not?
Hi, Susan R…
What difference being a resident or not? I don’t know… maybe the potential load on the system?
Thank you for posting loads of information! Lots of ideas….
I’ll chime in with comments about Overdrive and borrowing. I worked in a public library for 41 years until retirement two years ago and worked quite extensively with e-books and collection development. Many patrons aren’t aware that the library system has to pay for each copy of the books they order for Overdrive, much like physical print library books. However, the big difference is that while print books can cost a library anywhere from $15-20 each (they receive a hefty discount), publishers charge upwards to $100 PER COPY for the e-books used on Overdrive, which is why you often see only one copy of an e-book but multiple print copies in the library. This means huge waits for bestsellers (or most anything that could be on the popular side) and patrons get really frustrated, wondering why they are number 205 on a holds list (I know, that’s my number on an e-book I just put on hold). I could get into a long explanation of the library taxes and how they work, but I won’t.
Anyway, those of you who are able to obtain library cards while full-timing are lucky. “My” library requires permanent ID, and even if someone has a driver’s license but it has an address of an RV park, they are restricted to one check out at a time. AND if there is no permanent local address, a library card cannot be obtained for love or money–although last I heard there was a “visitor’s” card but it required a hefty deposit.
Anyway, I hope this helps clarify the whole e-book borrowing issue. Our system’s Overdrive collection is much better than it was but it’s still difficult to find exactly what I want to read without placing a hold on the item.
Very informative comment! I’m pleased that people with experience in library work are sharing the reasons for decisions that we (the public) may not understand nor like.
FYI: My library uses Amazon to download e-books as well as Overdrive. If I want to borrow and e-book and select “kindle” I’m taken to amazon where I click on “borrow.” I don’t know if it’s easier for libraries to go through amazon.
For Overdrive and most any service that has Kindle downloads, the downloads have to go through Amazon (their decision, not the libraries’). It was a little controversial at first (mainly because the worry was that Amazon was keeping track of your reading) but haven’t heard much lately.
This is why I use a card from a much bigger library system than mine (that has a reciprocal agreement with my library) for my ebooks. They have the money to buy lots of ebooks through Overdrive [wry g].
Hi Susan- I was a Kindle Unlimited member for a while, but then canceled it and they took all of my Unlimited choices off of my Fire. I don’t know if they still have the same policy. I thought that I could load up and keep them but not.
Rent The Martian with Matt Damon – one of my favs of all time. The book is excellent as well.
I’m spoiled with Kindle Unlimited for $9.99/month. Given the number of books we read, books are costing us about 45 cents a book and the selection is huge.
Lady Piper is looking so regal – wonderful that she and Rusty are so happy together. Makes me smile, a lot! Reggie is just a bundle of energy!!!
Hi, Jodee,
I like how you broke down the cost of Kindle Unlimited to 45 cents a book, which, of course, is specific to what you and your husband download. I use a similar method when grocery shopping. What may seem expensive may turn out not to be very costly if figured from the angle of how many meals the item will provide.
Thanks for your input into this topic!
The Martian is GREAT Jodee, we watched it about 2 weeks ago. I wasn’t expecting much but WOW my attention was fully focused on what was going on!
Chuck and I get our books from ohfb.com (One Hundred Free Books). They send a list in your email daily and more than 1/2 on the list are free, the rest are nearly free. You just need wifi so your Kindle can receive and upload the books. My taste in books is pretty varied, I read a bit of everything!
Tomorrow we take sweet Tater to start treatment for getting rid of his heartworms. Poor thing came to us with so many problems. He has a sponsor who is paying for the treatment so that helps! He is just so sweet, we are very glad we adopted him. But if you would say a prayer or wish him well, I sure would appreciate it!
Please tell Rusty hello from us! I sure hope his forever home happens soon!
I agree that Lady Piper is a beauty, and Reggie…..well no words can really describe his kind of unique cuteness! hahaha!
Oh, poor Tater has heartworms? Prayers and wishes for healing coming right up!
About ohfb.com… I tried to link it but it appears to be something on Facebook and I don’t have an account with FB. Thanks for mentioning it though for those who do.
I don’t think FB has any connection with OHFB. I do use FB but I have trouble with OHFB dropping me from their mailing list!
Thank you for your prayers for Tater. Thankfully he does not have a serious case of heartworms,,, so it won’t be too hard on him! A funny note about Tater… the first few times we took him for a car ride, he did NOT want to go. After about the fourth car ride he began to get all excited about riding in the car. We think that at first, he thought we were taking him back to the Humane Society since he had been returned do many times. After he realized we weren’t taking him back, he loves riding with us and he loves going to the Farmers Market with us!
Oh, little Tater thought he was being returned again. Poor guy. It’s cute how he figured out he belongs to you forever and then off he happily goes to the Farmers Market with you …. one of the family!
I mentioned FB because it showed up in the URL for ohfb.
I’m sorry to hear of Tater’s heartworm problem. Very interesting car ride story, one smart dog you have. Double prayers for Tater.
Hi RV Sue and blogorinos,
My most recent home was Estes Park, CO, where they got a foot of unexpected snow on Friday night, and sub-zero temps for several nights. I’m full-timing now — I’m near Orlando this week, and it’s a hot 80+ degrees. Something in between would suit me better!
For free books and movies, try http://www.openculture.com
These are mostly out-of-copyright books, and movies for which the rights were never properly secured. Some good stuff at this site, including language and other college courses.
Thanks for the link, Victoria. That’s one I hadn’t heard of.
I keep forgetting where EP is… I appreciate you helping this ol’ brain!
Another wonderful massive (10s of thousands or more) listing of free ebooks for download can be found at :
http://www.techsupportalert.com/free-ebooks-audio-books-read-online-download.htm
Enjoy, that’s the subject index page, each one of which has links to source sites. Free software can also be found at the same site.
WOW, FRED!
I haven’t clicked on any of the links at that site yet, but at first glance it looks like a tremendous resource, both for books to read and books one can listen to.
Thank you!
Welcome, more than a lifetime of books to read to find in all the links; some sites have thousands of books, other 2 or 3:
Best Free eBooks Online (913 sites)
Best Free AudioBooks Online (224 sites)
Almost forgot. Some of these files are in different file formats, like for Nook, older eReaders, PDF, etc. that make them difficult to use where you like.
You can usually convert them into a format that works in your kindle with free software (mobi, azw, etc):
Caliber eBook Management System program
http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/calibre.htm-0
or
Zamzar online converter
http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/zamzar.htm
Hi Sue,
I am one of the readers that suggested you can download books off a library card, no matter where you currently reside… Well, that works, but you have discovered, it does not work for all libraries. Since getting a library card in my home town, I have not once set foot in their brick and mortar buildings. I live half a state away, and since getting my card, I have downloaded and read maybe 200 books.
It works for me, because I was able to get a resident library card using my Mom’s home address. Maybe one day, you can do the same or maybe get a library card in your home state of SD?
Safe travels, Kevin
Hi, Kevin,
Today I looked up the library that serves Box Elder, South Dakota (my legal residence) and discovered that a mailing service address isn’t enough for proof of residence toward a card.
As an option, if one doesn’t have an actual residence, one can purchase a resident card for $90 a year or $7.50 a month. Not going to do that!
I’m glad you were able to obtain a resident card. You’re putting it to good use!
Wow that Lady Piper is beautiful! (you too, Reggie) I subscribed to Kindle Unlimited and used the heck out of it, then just cancelled it and got Amazon Prime. I’m still evaluating whether or not they have enough books to keep me happy. I know there are a lot more on K. Unlimited but I like also getting free 2 day shipping from Amazon. I use my Overdrive library a lot also, that stinks that they won’t let you do that! What’s the harm? I get the daily offerings from BookBub and also BookGorilla.com. (Book Gorilla also tells you if a book is available on K. Unlimited)
I am near you, just outside of Ehrenberg and it’s windy here but not dusty. The ground is covered with gravel. Pretty nice; I hope to stay here about a month. I hear the 14 day limit is not enforced at all here. I even got a site with a tree for shade! (Exit 1 in AZ on I-8, then at roundabout take E. Frontage road. Bear right at the Y, then I went about 1.2 more miles and turned left at a BLM stake.) All kinds of places to camp and not many people. And it’s free! Dump, water, propane, gas, laundromat and convenience store just 3 miles away, and very good cell & wifi signals. Come on over! Roxie would LOVE to have someone to play with. I am so happy to stop and rest awhile; I’ve been going going going since Dec. 2.
Hi, Janis P,
Isn’t it great when you find a place to settle for a while, a “home” where you can relax and recharge? I’m happy you found a spot at Ehrenberg. Thank you for the invitation. We’re “rooted” here for a stretch… And thanks also for adding more information to our book-and-DVD topic.
Here’s a link to BookGorilla.com for anyone interested.
Free audio books are available at LibriVox.org . They have public domain books available to anyone interested. I have long wanted to read Mark Twain’s great “The Man who Corrupted Hadleyburg” but it is impossible to find in print and expensive if found. But LibriVox had it in audiobook! Good site for many great books, give it a look see.
Thanks, Dan!
Here’s a link to LibriVox.org.
Rules, rules, rules…don’t many organizations love them though, Sue! Nice of the lady to help you figure out at least one way around one issue however!! Don’t you download free stuff off Amazon? There are blogs out there that share books up for free too. On a partially regular basis anyway.
Hope your fridge trouble is resolved ere long…heh, maybe Rusty can help eh? At least come summer twill be very nice to have that again!
Hi, Elizabeth,
Yes, I do download lots of books for my Paperwhite from various sources that people have listed here. Primarily I wanted the card for movie DVDs and also, the library database includes more choices of free books like new releases.
My refrigerator’s problems are more involved than what I would ask Rusty (or any other friend) to attempt. This will be clearer when I post more about the fridge.
The library is reflective of the Republic of Kalifornia.
I don’t know if you have any Cracker Barrel restaurants in the west, but if you do, they have a rack of cd’s, audiobooks, etc. that you can borrow and return at the next Cracker Barrel that is convenient to you. One of the motels, maybe Motel 6, has that too. Check out garage sales too as you go, sometimes you can get dvd’s for 25 cents or 5 for $1.
Thank you, Pat! I’m learning a lot about this topic!
Also, look up ‘Little Free Library” and see if any are near where you are going.
Here’s a link to a map for Little Free Libraries. 🙂
You asked for book recommendations. I enjoy the Canadian author, Louise Penny and her Three Pines series.
I also enjoyed Circle the Sun and The Wedding Dress. It’s not what you would imagine; more historical fiction between two different times.
Another author that I enjoy is Dana Stabenow and her Alaskan series.
Paula McLain’s CIRCLING THE SUN, the fictionalized story of Beryl Markham, was terrific and RVSue, I think you’d like it.
🙂
Thank you, Din!
Gosh Sue, I am sorry it isn’t more simple. This is one thing that I get so ‘crazy’ about… I wish more things were uniform… Most of our vintage camp stuff happens in Oregon, but living in WA confuses me when I go to camps here… I cannot keep it all straight (that is the brain injury…so I am not really whining… well… a little bit 🙂 ).
I cannot tell you how often I am shocked that in WA I have to have a token for a shower… Finally got smart and keep a few in my shower bag. Silly silly rules!
Do you have Amazon Prime? Between that and Netflix I have movies I could never keep up with… but you have to have a good signal! So that would probably not work much for boondocking.
So glad you and Rusty and Reggie and Piper are having a good visit.
Hugs to all from
Hoquiam!
Barb
Hi, Barb,
I appreciate the times your comments remind me that people who have received brain injury can have great difficulty with the many confusing situations in our confusing world. It must be extremely frustrating at times, especially when others can be terribly and unnecessarily impatient.
Your experience with the shower token illustrates how something as routine as taking a shower can be a hassle. You came up with a good solution!
No, I don’t have Amazon Prime and I don’t have Netflix. At one time, back in Georgia, Netflix movies kept me sane during the last months of teaching. Remember Blockbuster? I didn’t like that system at all.
Hugs to you in Hoquiam!
LOL I hated Blockbusters!
One thing–I just thought of–what about an online book club? I mean one of your own making??? I know that if I buy a Kindle book, I have the opportunity to share it (I believe for 2 weeks) with anyone I want who has a Kindle or the Kindle App. This may have been mentioned before, but I have only skimmed the comments. 🙂
Oh, I have tons of why my friend Tommy W used to call ‘workarounds’ for brain trauma. I think I have coping skills for my coping skills–lol.
Learned last night (big breath) that our girls will both be with us for our family holiday… one of my daughters has been ‘on the outs’ with me for a good part of this year… 🙁 I am nervous but trying to be as low key as I can be. I hate family strife. It just hurts your soul… The greatest gift this season for me will be family healing… one moment at a time. BREATHING… (whew). Anyone out there who wants to say ‘Hail Mary’s’ or prayers, or send good Karma — greatly appreciated. 🙂 I have not said this out loud to anyone at this point–thank you for this avenue to share… <3
Well, there is snow in Olympia, and high winds here (and rain, lots of rain). Should be interesting! A friend from high school drives school bus, and had one of the high school teams out for matches this weekend–they were stranded on the coast of Oregon due to an ice storm. Fortunately she has been doing this for YEARS and was able to keep everything together, finding housing for them all and getting them safely HOME last night-a day and a half late! She also uses social media really well so everyone knew they were SAFE! I could not do that job!
Hugs from Hoquiam–Always!
Barb
Thank you for choosing us with whom to share your personal heartache and hope. May this Christmas be one of healing and happiness for you and your family, Barb. Asking for God’s blessing….
Saying prayers for you Barb!
Thanks ladies. It has been… interesting.
Thanks for sharing your life with us. Praying for you
It is indeed sad that the family interaction can spoil what should be a happy time for all. I think your plan to be low key and take it one moment at a time is good. Sending good Karma to you and to anyone that faces similar situations.
Hi Sue!
Seeing the pictures of Piper in your recent posts sure does tug on the old heart strings. I have a special place in my heart for her breed. Throughout much of my adult life my best friend and constant side kick has been a Siberian husky. Such a wonderful breed. So loving, loyal, intelligent and very, VERY independent not to mention a gorgeous animal. I have fond memories of sharing my life with a husky and seeing the pictures of Piper awakens those memories. She’s beautiful but that Reggie has got the cuteness factor cornered. It’s wonderful that you, Rusty and the pups can visit for a while.
I’m sorry that the library connections didn’t work out for you. I would have been so lost last summer not being able to use my county library across the many miles to download books to my Paperwhite. I’ve always been a voracious reader and having a Paperwhite to enrich my travels and provide good evening entertainment was priceless last summer in Colorado. I don’t watch many movies but occasionally I did download a few from Amazon Prime to my Kindle Fire (when I had a public WIFI connection). Then I could have a popcorn and movie night sitting in the national forest. I don’t have a TV service provider at home so I’m not into watching a big screen. My over the air reception is lousy so I rarely watch TV. Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn have to be in alignment AND the moon must be in the first phase on the second Tuesday of the month before I can pull in a channel or two. Yeah, I don’t watch much TV. The only thing I really miss is football in the fall. Love me the NFL and I watch the Sunday games on my computer.
I sure hope that you and Reggie are able to stay warm enough. Last night was quite chilly on the desert and I don’t think tonight will be much better. Today, at my house, it got up to fifty with bright sunshine and very little wind. Tonight will probably dip to below freezing. The desert can get cold! It’s not all shorts and tank top weather.
I have some questions for you, Sue, if you don’t mind. Do you use a brand specific 12 volt plug to power your laptop directly from a 12 volt outlet or do you use an inverter? What’s the power source for your jetpack? Do you recharge the batteries on these devices and then use them on their own battery power until they need to be recharged again? How do you recharge your Paperwhite? I am researching adding a 12 volt charging station with an outlet(s) and USB ports to my Scamp. The Scamp is so old that it doesn’t even have a 12 volt outlet but my lights are 12 volt. I think I can do this mod myself but I’m unsure of how many outlets/ports I need or if the Scamp can easily handle this upgrade. I have a 300watt inverter that I can use in my truck or connect via alligator clips to the Scamp house battery and that is how I charged my techy gadgets last summer in Colorado. Not very convenient but it got the job done. I sure would like to have my own MIFI rather than be dependent on public internet connections but then I may need to add another 100watt solar panel to meet the additional power needs. These two areas are where I’d like to make some improvements before launching next summer’s adventures. Thanks for the info on your setup.—Audrey
Hi, Audrey,
You’re right about the Southwest… It isn’t always tank tops and shorts weather.
Okay, I’ll try to answer your questions. The BLT is built at the factory with 110 volt outlets as well as two 12 volt outlets. I use a 400 watt inverter (Cobra brand at present) which is plugged into one of the 12 volt outlets.
I have a power surge protector strip plugged into the inverter. From that strip I charge the batteries in my laptop, jetpack, camera, Paperwhite, phone, etc. When I’m using the laptop and the jetpack I usually have both plugged into the inverter power strip, although I could run them off their batteries for limited time periods. The television runs off the inverter, too.
I also have chargers for the PTV that I can use to charge the above items when the engine is running.
Good luck with any mod you attempt on your Scamp. You’re much braver than I am in that department!
Okay, I followed that just fine. I never considered using a power strip with an inverter and that option may be helpful to me, too. Thanks for your response, Sue.—Audrey
Thank you both for the question and the answer. Good to know how to figure out what I need.
We left Indiana for the warm weather of Galveston @ the beautiful waters of the Gulf. Yesterday was a lovely day in the 70’s, today the high was in the 40’s with frigid air and wind warnings. My weather app said to be extremely careful if driving a van or RV due to the wind. Last night we put our sliders in so the awnings covering them wouldn’t be destroyed. I keep reminding myself it’s single temps at home but when we go out to walk Chloe it doesn’t feel much different. I think only one more day of this but in the meantime WOW is it cold. Hugs to Reggie.
Hi, Nancy,
This definitely ain’t no time for no awning! 🙂
I know what you mean about the quick change in weather. I’m not wearing tank tops and shorts since that first day at this camp. . . . switching back to winter clothes again.
Yes, be careful in the wind…
If I wrote a list of my favorite books, it would probably become a book of its own. However, my current favorite “light reading” is The Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mysteries, by Karen Musser Nortman.
Thanks, Calvin. I’m intrigued by that title and will look it up.
I was shocked you could even get a library card on the road. We are seldom in any one place longer than 2 weeks and at first I thought for sure I could borrow books from the local library but I had to have a local address every time I asked and a State Park Campground wouldn’t do. I guess they are more lenient out west than here in the stuffy east. What do you use as your address when you fill out the application? I do have a library from my former home town. I kept it when I left. I don’t live there anymore but I did for 30 years so I can use over drive with it. But sometimes I just want to go into the library and bring a real live book home with me for a few days. Bummer that SD won’t let you. Can you put your address and then your “box #” as apt #? Or would they figure it out. Really love all the suggestions for getting e books by your readers. You are a real resource for full timers!
Hi, Sherry,
You asked what address I would use on a library card application. That would be my legal address at Americas Mailbox, a mail forwarding service, which is located near the library where I would apply for a card. It’s a very popular mail forwarding service. The library would be aware of it no matter how I wrote the address.
You remind me to mention to wannabe full-timers: Get a library card before you leave town!
The main reason most libraries don’t lend to non-residents, and require proof of residence to get a card, is because most libraries are funded by property or other local taxes. There are actually quite a few places in the U.S. where the locality, for whatever reason, has decided not to fund a library, and the people who live there are just out of luck unless they can persuade their local government to change the policy.
Many library systems have reciprocal agreements within a state or region. If you have a library card with one library system, check to see if your library has reciprocal agreements with other library systems that may be of use to you.
I was a public library reference librarian for sixteen years, and library funding and access in the U.S. is and always has been a tangled web. One city library branch I worked for was adjacent to a small separate city which chose not to fund library services, and when people came in from that jurisdiction we had to turn them away (our library board having made the decision not to allow them cards because they didn’t pay taxes to help fund the library). It wasn’t fun, believe me.
Hi, Meg . . . .Ooh, that would not be fun at all. I appreciate you explaining the funding issue and its connection to the issuance of library cards.
About reciprocal agreements… Like I mentioned in this post, a Nevada library card may be accepted at other libraries across the state.
One other thought. Some library systems will *sell* you a non-resident card. When I worked at the Tacoma Public Library in Washington state, a non-resident card was something like $80 a year back in the 1990s. Which, by the way, was not anywhere *near* the amount the average local resident paid in taxes per year for library funding. I think that’s what finally doomed that setup in Tacoma.
Most library systems that do this don’t advertise it for obvious reasons, and I don’t know if that would include downloading ebooks, so you’d basically just have to luck into finding a system that does this, but it’s always worth asking. That is, if it would be worth the money to you.
Yes, I found that fee for a resident card by a non resident at my home library in SD… $90 annually or $7.50 monthly.
Hi, Sue!
I think that popcorn popper is my order. What do you think of Gil’s Christmas present? He is going to be so excited! He loves popcorn and has wanted one of these for a long time.
Very good day for me today.
Hi, Kathy,
I think the popper is a fun gift! Gil is going to love it! And it has that charming, old popper design. I read some of the reviews and looked at the star rating… It does rate very high. I know you’ll be tickled, watching Gil open up that present.
Thanks for ordering it through my blog, along with the popcorn to go in it.
Your last line blesses my heart. Wishing you many, very good days….
Here is a list of the books I loved most in 2016. I usually write annotations but have been too busy getting our casita in Green Valley, AZ set up and enjoying the sunshine. 🙂
Memoirs:
Ruth Wariner – The Sound of Gravel.
Kate Coyne – I’m Your Biggest Fan
Rita Coolidge – Delta Lady
John Fogerty – Fortunate Son
Toni Tenille – Toni Tenille: A Memoir.
Jan Louch – The True Tails of Baker & Taylor
Nonfiction
Therese Oneill – Unmentionable: The Victorian Lady’s Guide to Sex, Marriage, and Manners
Mary Roach – Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans at War
Graham Holliday- Eating Viet Nam
Suspense/Mystery
Any Gentry – Good as Gone.
G. M. Ford – Salvation Lake
J. A. Jance – Downfall
Catherine McKenzie – Fractured
Shari Lapena – The Couple Next Door
Ruth Ware – The Woman in Cabin 10
Clare Mackintosh – I Let You Go
Noah Hawley – Before the Fall
Lisa Lutz – The Passenger
Novels
Paula McLain – Circling the Sun
Cynthia Sweeney – The Nest
Phaedra Patrick – The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper
Sally Hepworth – The Things We Keep
Happy Reading and Happy Holidays!
Wow! Thank you, Robin! Happy Holidays to you, too!
Thank you!
Double check this, but a couple of years ago I heard that an out of area person could purchase an annual membership from LA City (I think City, not County) for I think $50, and have unlimited access to all their holdings. After the check out time expires, the book is no longer on your computer. You can have a book on reserve, and when it expires on someone else’s computer, it automatically is yours, for the check out time. You can check out more than one on-line book at a time.
That’s $50 is for one year, I assume. Thanks for letting us know about this, Anne.
Aw ya snuck one in on me while i was napping, Library’s don’t work for me, so my research is on the Web and i like it cause ya don’t have to pay fines or go anywhere and that suits me fine,, the only time I go is to print off stuff,,, great photos of town and of course the Reggometer racing round Piper, have a pleasant, warm evening,,,,,👣🐾
Rusty…. If you like to listen to books, scroll up to Fred’s comment. He gave us a link to a website where you can download audio books for free.
You have a pleasant evening, too, neighbor!
Thanks Sue, but because of data limits I’m unable to listen to Audio books, I get stories from XM,,😎 👣🐾
The solution might be to use a relative’s address as your home address for the library card. Next time you go to visit a family member have them go with you to their local library, they can verify it in person which is all the library really cares about. Not everyone who is a senior drives and many live with relatives and have no utility bills of their own to use as proof. The library rules therefor flex for these situations with the owner of the property of address verifying in person for obtaining the card.
Hi, Karen,
That sounds like it would work. My problem would be answering the questions, “Is this your permanent address? The address where you live?” 🙂
You could honestly say “yes, when I am not traveling”.
It all depends on the library.
I got my card from the Sierra Vista, AZ library and when asked for my permanent address I explained that I lived fulltime on the road as a RVer. The clerk then asked “Where are you living now?”. I told her the Park name but did not know the address so she looked it up. Done! Been getting Kindle books from that library while at almost every location where I have been since leaving Sierra Vista.
Hi, Ed,
That gives me a reason to camp at an RV park other than for the hot showers. 🙂 I can tell you’re enjoying your Paperwhite. I did check out a paperback from the Blythe library. At first I thought, “Well, it’s kind of nice to hold a book in my hand for a change… pages to turn.” Then that evening I tried to read in bed under the LED light. I couldn’t do it. The print was too small! I was wishing I had the book on my Paperwhite so I could read it. Once you go Paperwhite, there’s no going back.
Thanks for sharing a way to obtain a library card and ebooks.
It would be a nice “rvsue and her canine crew” feature to have a compiled library link as a sidebar.
Mick . . . .I’m not sure what you mean by a “compiled library link.” What would it consist of?
Just a list of all the links provided in this post with a brief description.
So they don’t get lost as this post ages and for easy access.
Hi Sue,
I live in a rural area that doesn’t have a library, but we have a bookmobile, that is, a bus that has lots of books that makes the rounds in the rural parts of our county. It’s a great service. But even with the 2-times-month visit of the bookmobile, sometimes I can’t get books and DVDs back on time. But I made a discovery – the overdue fees are tiny. I’m not encouraging anyone to return books or DVDs late, but . . . if you do, often the fine is just a very small amount, and it’s worth it.
There is an online service for those of us who like to read a lot. It’s Scribd and it costs about $10 a month, but I’ve found it to be well worth the cost. They do limit how many books you can read in a month, but I’ve never gone over the limit.
It’s especially nice in the wintertime to have reading on hand.
Your blog is great,
Take care,
Diane
Thank you, Diane,
You’re right about the fines. Sometimes it’s a way to gain time to finish a book.
Here’s a link for Scribd.com.
I use my mom’s library card. She’s 95 and never was much of a recreation reader so when I wanted to use the library in her city, I took her to get a card. Her library has books in Kindle and Overdrive formats. If I check out in Kindle format then I can use Amazon’s “manage my Kindle” to return them early to check out others if we’re out on the road and I’m reading a lot since it’s pretty easy to read 10 books in less than 3 weeks. Using a relative’s library card may be an option for some folks that travel and have a “fixed location” relative who doesn’t do ebooks.
The authors I like are Anne McCaffrey, Georgette Heyer, and Janette Oke among others.
Hi, Reine,
Thanks for another tweak of the relative’s library card solution for checking out books while on the road. Readers may not have thought of utilizing the home address of a relative who no longer reads much (or never did).
Thanks also for sharing your favorite authors. Merry Christmas to you, Paul, and family!
well I cant comment on libraries since its been probably 40 years
since Ive been inside one…….:)
I usually download a western book from Amazon Prime once a month
and take the whole month to read it…..
but it does make for interesting reading that all the blogorino comments
here…..Im sure I’ll be looking back at this page for refrence in future
years
thanks
chuck and pookie
You’re welcome, chuck,
Your comment about not being in a library for a long time reminds me of a recent experience. While applying for a library card, a couple of patrons are engaged in a very loud conversation. The librarian doesn’t seem at all bothered by this.
After they leave, I’m browsing the stacks. A couple of women — staff? volunteers? — are decorating a Christmas tree in the lobby and using outside voices in a constant stream of exclamations, questions, and whatever. I can’t concentrate on book titles so, rather than become irritated, I sit down and try to absorb some of their Christmas spirit and not think about Reggie waiting for me in the PTV. Other patrons are trying to read magazines and newspapers. The librarian seems oblivious.
Ha! What happened to “library voices?” I have to laugh at how old-fashioned I’ve become. Library voices… ppffftt!
Always nice to hear from you, chuck. You come here toward the end of the day and so you greet me in the morning. 🙂
Maybe your sister could set up a card and would let you use for overdrive? Unless she is already using? You are allowed to check out I think 10 at a time which you could share. I missed how did you use it for a while then they stopped letting you use it?
Hi, Shelley,
To answer your question, which I’m not sure I understand: I never used the library card to download books. I used it to check out DVDs in person. (I didn’t need a book at the time.) I was hoping to have ebooks available to me through the library via the card while traveling to and camping in other places.
I was thinking the same thing. Find someone who can get a library card and just enter their card number into Overdrive. I think the way Overdrive works is the same at all libraries. One enters their library ID number and a password and then ebooks can be checked out. My library has a 5 book limit.
The limiting factor for me is that my local library requires that one physically goes to the library every 2 years and verifies his address. That is why it would be nice if you could find a friend or family member who is “stationary” and can keep the account active…although every library may not have this requirement.
I haven’t used it recently, but I could get ebooks from my old hometown library in SD using Overdrive. I just had to enter my library card number that I was given by the county library. I could get popular books faster from that library than my local one. The wait list was usually shorter.
WOW! Great post and comments. Funny…..one of your previous posts made me think how cool it would be if all your readers would post their favorite book title. This comes close. I will be writing some of these down for sure. Have a great day and hello to Rusty and Lady Piper!
Hi, MB,
You could write down the title of this post also, in case you want to come back and browse comments for suggestions or to use the links. I’m pleased you like the comments generated by this post!
Oh…..your blog has it’s own folder! I save lots of your/your reader’s information and advice. 😉
I just bookmarked this page in my computer for future reference.
Sue,
This may have been covered in the Comments but I have not been reading them. Have not read it in your postings.
From ToSimplify.net
“I’m typically late to the party when it comes to this sort thing, so forgive if me if this is old hat by now:
Brilliant stuff, this Amazon Locker, and I’ve really been milking it during what has turned out to be a prolonged stretch in the big city. To the uninitiated, Amazon Locker essentially gives one a place to receive Amazon shipments – perfect for nomads, though I doubt if that was their intent.
You simply enter the shipping address for the nearest Locker when ordering (predictably, they only appear to be in bigger cities so far), you receive an email when the package arrives, you roll up in your house and scan a bar code from said email, and BAM – one of the locker doors suddenly opens up to reveal your package. I’m not sure which I like better – that the service is free, or that it makes me feel a little bit like a secret agent picking up the top secret dossier containing details for my next assignment.”
What an innovative and exciting solution to the mailing problem for many of us! Thank you, Ed. I hadn’t heard about Amazon Locker. One can imagine many applications of this idea — the future is here! 🙂
I don’t think I’ve ever been to a garage sale that didn’t have some books and usually DVDS for sale. Usually very CHEAP ….Stock up then trade with others or donate. They don’t take up much room.
Netflix now has download able movies and TV shows. Stock up the downloads when you’re near WiFi.
More good ideas… Thanks, Linda!
It’s 6′ here and for the third morning in a row have gone back to bed. After sleeping til 10:00 the last 2 I don’t think it possible today. Back hurts. Oh well.
I tried the overdrive feature of the local library and was disappointed. The new books were in great demand and had to be placed on hold. When they became available I was reading something else and maybe several came up at the same time and not enough time to read all of them. I read all kinds of books and might not be ready for a romance and want to read a horror.
Any way I have been on Amazon free lists for so long I have 5000 books at my disposal now. Some of them are worth what you pay others a tickler to get you to buy sequels which I often do.
Free ones that intrigue me are The Black Box The Light series from Teri Blackstock and Sycamore.
Political ones like The end of America etc.
I like a good mystery and I like comedy. The series books usually only have the first ones free and the. You pay. If I like I will pay up to $3 but balk at more. Have a few cds but they seldom interest me. I keep them for my grandson who refuses to read. I wouldn’t even carry a tv for myself. Computer esp tablet or phone does quite well.
Hi, Jean,
Your second paragraph points out a couple of the problems with putting popular books on hold. I’d react the same way. I have to be in the right mood for certain genres. There are people who have more than one book in progress at a time. Not something I ever want to do — or could do — and still enjoy the books.
Thanks for sharing a few of your favorite book titles. I hope your back feels better.
I do have several open at once. When one fire or paperwhite goes dead I have iPad or phone when my husband was still with me he hated the mess of so many books around. I only do electronic anymore. Shhh don’t tell I have a bucket of paperbacks hid in case of the unknown disaster. I like evanovich too. I will read almost anything given the moment
34 degrees at Roosevelt Lake Az early morning!
For light reading Janet Evanovich numbered series are a hoot. Lol for real.
Sue Grafton letter series are good too.
Camp prices here went up to 8$. So the camp Cholla is pretty empty.
Happy Holidays to all.
Happy Holidays to you, Jan.
Roosevelt Lake… *sigh*. . . special memories of that place. Cholla Campground used to be a place where several RVers spent the winter months. The fee increase can’t have helped local businesses.
Actually 34 degrees is close to what we’re having here at Blythe in early morning.
Roosevelt Lake’s temperatures can be surprising. Folks think it’s at high elevation (and thus has cooler temps) because it is surrounded by high country. But it’s in a basin and when the temps are uncomfortably cold in nearby Globe, it can be delightfully balmy at Roosevelt Lake.
Thanks for the book suggestions, Jan, and for reminding me of the gorgeous cactus flowers I photographed there last spring. Enjoy Cholla!
LOVE Janet Evanovich! The characters seem like friends and family after reading them all….several times. The first several were not my favorites but they got better and better as the characters evolved and grew into their own. I could probably get around Trenton NJ by now too…..just stay away from Stark Street! The set of Stephanie Plum books will be going with me when my full-timing begins….I will make room. 🙂 Have a great day Jan!
I’ve had challenges in getting a library card as I don’t have a physical address – I live in a small cottage in someone’s back yard and don’t have my own street address. I get my mail at a PO box. I used my daughter’s address when I first moved back to the city I currently live in, which was no problem. When it came time to renew they asked me if I still lived at her address and without thinking I said “no.” I explained my situation and their suggestion was to send myself a postcard at either my daughter’s address or my landlord’s mailing address and bring it in to show them. That took care of it!
I love my public library! I usually visit a few times per month. Their ebook collection is extensive as the library is part of a state-wide consortium. They have overdrive, as well as hoopla. My intention is to continue to “use” my daughter’s address to maintain my library card after I hit the road (several years out). I’m not sure what I’ll do if she ever moves out of state 🙂
Meanwhile, I scope out bookbub and several other free sites and am collecting free and cheap books. My reading list is so long I will probably never get through it!
Hi, Cindy,
Interesting library card story… The postcard method to establish your residency. Thanks for writing and sharing this idea!
Hi Sue
I happened to run into a library book sale at the Pagosa Springs library in Colorado this summer and purchased a year’s worth of reading at $.50 per paperback and $1.00 for each hard bound. 16 books at a whopping cost of $11. Like new condition, well know authors. Since then, I have always wandered around whatever town I may be in and have found library sales at two other libraries along the way.
Almost ran into you when I took a trip from Quartzite one day to check out the Midland LTVA, missed you by a day I think. Am presently at the Imperial Dam LTVA. Still looking for Jenny’s replacement. Sam says hi to Reggie.
Hi, Bob,
Library book sales are fun. You hit the mother lode! Good addition to our collection of “Ways to Obtain Books While On the Road.” Thanks!
I imagine you found Midland to be lacking in appeal. It isn’t for everyone! What drives others away is what lures me in. Ha! Imperial Dam is nice. The one time I was there it was very crowded. Maybe with Canadians cutting back on their travels (dollar exchange), there aren’t as many campers there?
I’m sure you know that no dog can replace your sweet Jenny. I do wish you and Samantha well as your path takes you to the next addition to your family.
Another source for free/inexpensive e books is http://robinreads.com/ You can subscribe to their list and get an email daily, includes some free books and some for $.99 each. It is affiliated with Amazon, so you are actually downloading/purchasing the books from Amazon. So, you must have an account with Amazon, but it doesn’t need to be Prime. There are different genres listed in the email and the web site has a few more that you can browse daily. They are generally new authors, or new series, but I’ve enjoyed the ones I’ve read. I have downloaded many for my future retired reading pleasure!
Thanks, Jane, for contributing to our list!
Sue,
Let me first say that I didn’t have time to read all the comments. I’m saving this post and going back and enjoying all the book suggestions when I have more time.
This may have been said already… for a small fee you can join the Philadelphia Free Library. It had at one time in the last few years one of the largest library ebook collections available. It’s amazing.
thanks for this post, I love books,
Pat
Thank you, Pat! I’m glad you enjoyed this post and the comments!
I printed this post out so I would have all the book suggestions and addresses of all the different places to get books on line. A treasure trove of information once again. I did not get to read your blog until I came to work today. I don’t have a computer at home right now. It is wonderful to see beautiful well-cared for dogs in this blog. Up lifting on a COLD Monday morning. It was in the teens with a strong wind this morning. Memphis is not used to that cold. Hope you are enjoying your weather whatever it is.
Thanks, Jean. It’s cold here with no wind — at the moment. I hope you can stay where you can be warm today.
Good idea to save the suggestions for future reference. Wonderful collection of information . . . . I should ask readers for specific information and ideas more often!
I met a man from Minnesota this morning. I commented that it was chilly and he went into a 3 minute weather report about Minnesota culminating in the comment “this is heaven”. I guess we do get a mite spoiled out this way and in the southwest in general. We are so used to the 70’s and 80’s that 30’s and 40’s seems cold. I should know better having lived where it was a low as 30 below zero, still I am old and my blood has thinned. Missy you are wise to keep a eye on Reggie…..I want to steal him but wouldn’t, but some out there are not as kind as I…..*lol*…..What would our Missy do without the little fella just created for her. He is sure looking perky and your photos of him are great.
“I met a man from Minnesota . . .. ” Love your beginning line, Jim. 🙂
Like that man you met, several blogorinos remind us how good we have it when our temps are in the 40s.
Another reason I keep Reggie on a tether, besides the danger of coyotes and other predators, is the fear that, if lost, he would be “rescued” by a person who would keep him. That almost happened with Spike when he was young and we lived in Georgia. He went exploring, a woman found him and fell in love with him. She kept him for 3 or 4 days (while I cried my eyes out!), until her daughter insisted she return him to me.
Reggie — “the little fella just created for” me. 🙂 You and Detta have a good day, okay?
I’m so happy to read this post and the comments. My husband and I are in the planning stages of moving into an RV and traveling and one of my concerns is satisfying my reading addiction while on the road. Right now I live 2 blocks from a library that I visit weekly for a large bag of books. Paying for that many e-books will definitely not be in our retirement budget! Thanks to everyone who listed ideas for me to explore!
Hi, Cher, and welcome!
Planning can be such fun — especially planning for RV travel! There are so many wonderful choices! As the comments here reveal, there are also many choices for obtaining reading material, much of it for free.
There really is no good substitution for watching a movie after looking forward to that. I’m sorry you were disappointed in that way, Sue. Hopefully, the comments section having become such a wellspring of useful information for you and all the blogorinos is an ongoing pleasure of a different type for you.
It’s sweet that Piper got her visit with Reggie. The idea and photo of her watching the BLT for signs of life is so touching. I hope you, Reggie and Rusty stay warm enough tonight , I’m sure Piper will. The widget says the overnight low prediction for Blythe is 28 degrees!
Hi, weather,
On the Scale of Disappointments, missing out on a movie is so insignificant it doesn’t even register. I tend to exaggerate feelings in my writing. 🙂
Aren’t the comments under this post wonderful? When blogorinos grab onto a topic, we (all of us, blogorinos and lurkers) benefit! I’ve learned a lot about resources for books. Since Reggie and I will stay at Blythe for a while, the next time I walk into the library I’ll have with me a list of book and author suggestions from blogorinos. 🙂
Thanks for the wish for our warmth. Reg and I were comfortable all night. This morning it’s cold and Reggie went back to bed. I’ve become so accustomed to cold mornings that I wouldn’t have turned on the heater this morning.
I hope you have everything you need — food, supplies, warmth — during these times of NY cold, snow, and ice.
My suggestion may have been mentioned already but I am a BIG FAN of Redbox… For $1.50 plus local tax onto a credit card… Pick up the DVD one place and drop off at any other Redbox location has been my favorite for the past few years… You get the latest movies and even if you rented 10 a month.. The cost is still very reasonable.. Thinking of you,, freezing my buns off here in Frisco TX – pulled out a coat I haven’t used since Carson City 4 yrs ago!! High of 25 – Low of 15 – Yep Winter arrived!! Oh did I forget the wind?? That brings the temp down to about 5… Aughh! Merry Christmas RVSue from Gary, Me and Kori ….
Good morning, Mel! Wishing you a warmer day today! Merry Christmas to you, Gary and Kori!
Wow, this blog is full of books for me to check out. I must say I’m pretty old school though and love to read actual books with the feel and smell of paper. I don’t know if I could go digital. I realize for those of you full timing that having a library isn’t an option. My fear is that the printed word in newspapers and books will be a thing of the past. Hopefully not in my lifetime.
Take care,
Hi, Karen,
You love your books. They do become like old friends. On the other hand, I haven’t met one person who wants to go back to paper books after giving an e-reader a good try, and that includes people with room to store paper books on shelves. I like curling up in bed in the dark with a book that glows. 🙂
P.S.
I also wanted to share that “The Glass Castle” by Jeanette Walls is one of my favorites. While reading this book , you’ll find yourself thinking how lucky and blessed am I?
One of my favourites too. Have you read her other book? Half broke horses. Based on her grandmothers life.
Hi Val,
I never read that one but I did just order Silver Star. (through this blog of course :)) I’ll give Half Broke Horses a read too.
thanks,
With OverDrive I’m able to download ebooks through my library. I’m thinking that since my library never sends me anything through the mail, then I ought to be able to keep my library card active while on the road. I am hoping that’s the case as I do love to read. Maybe somebody needs to create an app for full-time RVers about library policies. Hmmmm…
Isn’t Piper a beauty! Reggie charms them, big or small.
Once you get refrigeration back, you will have a great appreciation for it having done without, I am sure.
You were thinking what I’ve been thinking, Lori. I will appreciate my refrigerator more. 🙂
P.S. If you like thrillers and you enjoy the setting of Lake Tahoe, please check it out Todd Borg’s books. My sister edit his books for him and that’s how I discovered him. The Kindle version of his latest book “Tahoe Dark” will be offered for free on Amazon from December 25th through December 29th.
Tahoe Dark (An Owen McKenna Mystery Thriller Book 14) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FBIC6GG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dNjwybYZYQ1G7
Thanks, Lori…. Another free book! Yay!
Just a few of the many books I have enjoyed this year.
All the Light We cannot See. — Anthony Doerr
Light Between Oaceans. —- M.L. Stedman
The Heart Goes Last. — Margaret Atwood
The Bridge Ladies. — Betsy Lerner
They Left Us Everything.. — Plum Johnson. This is a memoir, very funny. Folks dealing with aging parents and their homes full of stuff, will relate.
Oh my, I could go on & on
Those titles do sound appealing…. Thank you, Val R.
What a literate and well-read crowd you are, Blogorinos!
Thanks for the reading suggestions. Was wondering how I was going to fill out my winter reading schedule. Now, with your help, I am well on my way.
It’s like Christmas morning! Lots of presents to open and enjoy…. 🙂
Love the photos of Lady Piper and Reggie; beautiful & elegant vs. cute and funny.
I don’t have anything to add to all the suggestions for reading on the road. Since I am still hoping to travel, I have downloaded an enormous amount of books on my Kindle, so they are saved. Since I am still in my S & B house I read from my library now, instead of my downloaded books, which I get from bookbub or Amazon when free or cheap.
Need to get back to work.
Hi, Barbara! Hope you don’t work too hard!
Love your contrast of Piper and Reggie — “beautiful and elegant vs. cute and funny.” Perfect!
HI, EVERYBODY!
Blogorinos, you’re the greatest!
Your participation in this comments section helped build a valuable resource for all of us who enjoy reading. Thank you and do feel welcome to add more suggestions for authors, books, and websites to try.
Last night a comment popped into my consciousness. It was a new blogorino wanting my e-mail address in order to ask questions. I wanted to reply that this is the place to ask questions so that everyone who comes here can benefit from discussion that follows in response. This morning I tried to find that comment without success. I will keep trying.
If that person is you, I’m sorry. Please comment here again and ask what you want to know.
Stay warm everyone!
Christmas and Hanukkah coming soon!
Bye for now,
Sue
P.S. Blogorinos — I won’t be replying to comments from this point on, but you can! 🙂
I love all the book and website ideas! Thanks Everybody! The one thing I have found about Kindle Unlimited is that you have to read ALOT of books to make it pay for itself. If you don’t care and just like it for the convenience, like me, its great. Also, Amazon never made any “deals” with the major publishers yet. So, most of the stuff on Kindle Unlimited is by independent authors-many of which are absolutely awful! But, I have found some treasures there.
If you like Science Fiction then read anything by Hugh Howey-especially his Silo Series.
Also, if you are into military apocalypse thrillers then read michael stephen fuchs Arisen series and the Babylon series by Sam Sisavath. I enjoy all kinds of books but lately have been reading these types.
Also, the mysteries of Phryne Fisher by Kerry Underwood-those are delightful but alot more risque than the t.v. show so beware!
Temp rising here today-in the 50’s I think. Be warm everyone!
I just read your comment about What ever happened to library voices?, Sue. I had to laugh! As a retired librarian, I can tell you those haven’t been around for a long time. Of course, it actually does depend on the library system and their policies. I used to work for Harris County library system in Houston, Tx. Worked there 15 and a half years. I knew one of the managers who had to get up on a table and yell for everyone in the library to be quiet so she could hear the phone! True story! On Saturday’s when the kids came in…Oh My Gosh….! And lets not forget the herds of undisciplined home schoolers and their oblivious mothers. Ha, I could go on and on! Did I say I was glad I am retired?? 🙂
Hi Terri. I love your comment …standing “on a table and yell for everyone to be quiet…” what a hoot.
Just catching up on you blog , thought I would add my “free cents”, movies.
Google, YouTube movies, there are movies galore to chose from some familiar others not so much but good flicks all the same. I kind of like the hunting process.
I have a chrome cast device which allows you to cast the movie to your TV and then shut down your computer. It’s like magic. I am watching “Unconditional Love” with Kathy Bates and Dan Aykroyd, never heard of it before but a good movie.
It’s a crap shoot but that is part of the fun.
Since several blogorinos mentioned they’re saving this post for future reference, I’m adding my suggestions here…
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Anything by Maeve Binchy; also Rosamund Pilcher
The Clifton chronicles by Jeffrey Archer: all are real cliffhangers… hubby also likes them!
Librivox is a great site to download free audio books.
Jim