Filthy Fifty 5,6,and 7

The new year has kept me busy, but I'm gradually checking off Filthy Fifty items one by one.

Filthy Fifty #5

It's no secret that I love the story of Les Miserables. But having never read the book, I felt like I was missing one of the greatest novels of the nineteenth century. With nearly 1500 pages and over a half a million words...I made an impressive Filthy Fifty goal to read the novel and finish it before the movie released on Christmas day. Friend and fellow Les Mis fan Michelle suggested I listen to the novel on tape. 

I WAS ADDICTED...and couldn't stop listening for over 60 hours. Romance, justice, history, danger, adventure, humor, sorrow, love and grace. Les Miserables has it all! Hundreds of endearing quotes like "Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise" or "To love another person is to see the face of God" are scattered among the dramatic story. If you haven't read it...do it...you will not regret it! By the way, I easily finished and was one of the lucky ones to see the movie on opening day.

Filthy Fifty #6

Chet and I have a Wednesday morning ritual where we use his late start at school as an excuse to have breakfast together. Jitters makes the best hot chocolate.

With no school on this particular day it was a perfect time to go all out and have brunch with my teenage son as Filthy Fifty #6.

I wonder if there is something in the "Bro Code" making it OK to have brunch with your mom.

Filthy Fifty #7

It's no secret that we love winter here at The Garlick Press.

Each snowstorm just adds to our excitement.

But building Jocie a snowman at the cemetery (Filthy Fifty #7) just may be the highlight of this winter.

Following a Saturday morning ski trip up to the mountains (which explains our outfits no judgement please), we stopped for lunch at our favorite Herm's Inn and decided today was the day.

His name is Harv. We gathered accessories from some of the prizes that had been accumulating over winter by Jocie's headstone. Harv's mouth is a red velvet bow attached with flower picks.

I'm lucky enough to be surrounded by two guys (and a dog) who are willing to accommodate my last minute whims. Harv is perfect! I have a couple of big Filthy Fifty items coming up...stay tuned!