Pat Taub
Beach Bodies
As summer heats up (at alarming temps), more and more older women are donning bathing suits as they take to the beach, swimming pools or lakes. While putting on a bathing suit can be daunting as our bodies age, the Spanish government has launched a campaign encouraging women of all ages and shapes to hit the beaches with the slogan, “Summer is ours too.” Check out their photo which includes a topless woman who has had a mastectomy.
A Book You Can’t Put Down
At the recommendation of a book worm friend, I purchased the new novel, “Fellowship Point” by Alice Elliott Dark. I’m about a third through, relishing in the story of two women, friend since childhood, now 80, who reflect on their long lives, while meeting an obstacle that threatens their enduring friendship. Much of the book is set on the Maine coast in a fictitious peninsula, whose rich details will be familiar to Mainers and all who love Maine’s resplendent outdoors.
Elizabeth Strout
Speaking of Maine, and writers who set their stories in Maine, this week it was announced that beloved Maine writer, Elizabeth Strout was nominated for the Booker Prize, the celebrated writing prize bestowed to writers in the UK, Ireland, and the US. Strout was nominated for her novel “Oh William!,” which revisits the character of Lucy Barton, a familiar figure in her previous books.
Elizabeth Strout
Annika
I highly recommend this British crime series available on Amazon Prime, starring Nicola Walker. Annika is a Detective Inspector in the Scottish Police, recently transferred to the Glasgow Marine Homicide Unit. Annika’s unhappy teenage daughter moves in with her, creating a realistic mother-daughter relationship stressed by Annika’s long hours and her daughter’s wayward behavior.
Climate Woes
This summer’s record heat across the globe, compounded by record wildfires and droughts is making us all anxious, creating new worries about how global warming is rapidly making life on earth inhabitable. A little hope is in sight with the recent announcement that Manchin has agreed to a compromise climate bill. It’s a weak bill, but better than nothing, and still needs to pass the Senate and the House. Can it overcome the Republicans’ opposition? Time for prayers and intense public protests.
