The Five

Okay, the holidays have me in their grip. I've got some catching up to do!

Sight

The Year of Fog
by Michelle Richmond

This book traces a traumatic year in the life of photographer Abby Mason after she loses her fiance's six-year-old daughter. The moment Abby stopped to photograph a dead baby seal while walking on a fog-bound beach in San Francisco is one she will replay in her head a thousand times. That's the last time she saw Emma, who was racing ahead, eager to collect sand dollars. Panic and fear soon give way to sheer exhaustion and emotional shutdown as Abby and Emma's dad, Jake, immerse themselves in the desperate search for the missing first-grader.

The Woods
by Harlen Coban

A fluff-filled thriller, it's perfect for this busy time of year when you just wish to escape into an easy read. Cope, the main character, was a counselor at a summer camp in which several fellow counselors were murdered. Well, apparently murdered. It's filled with twists and turns, and has a somewhat predictable ending. However, it's a worthwhile read and a nice way to spend an afternoon.

I am Legend
by Richard Matheson

Just as chilling as the first time I read this as a teenager, Matheson just gets in my head and won't leave! His ability to completely engross the reader is timeless (the novel was written in the 1950s). You must read this before seeing all three versions of this movie: The Last Man on Earth with Vincent Price, Omega Man with Charlton Heston, and I am Legend with Will Smith--my reason for rereading this! Can't wait for the movie.

Sound

Talk Radio. I've OD'd on Christmas carols!


Scent

A Christmas Candle. Picked it up for less than $4 and I've got it sitting on my candle warmer. I love it! It's a combination of cinnamon, pine, and Christmas cookies! Really wonderful, especially since I'm trying to avoid eating too many of the holiday goodies that are around--just smelling them is enough!

Taste

Snowdrift Meringues
I've made these delightful and delicious treats twice in the last week. They seem sinful, but are surprisingly point friendly! The recipe will be posted soon!

Touch

Many, many packages from UPS and the USPS--and a few from FedEx! I've done most of my shopping online and really enjoying the unveiling of each gift as they arrive.