I’ve decided to somewhat reign in my tendency to make hundreds of end-of year-lists even though it was all too tempting to squander hours making notes as to what might appear in my lists of Favourite French people of the year, Most intriguing Hermits of 2008 or Meekest Meerkat of the last twelve months.
Instead I’m sticking to music and reading which is just as well as there has been a shocking scarcity of interesting hermits this year. So I have compiled my favourite albums of the year HERE and my favourite songs of the year HERE.
As for reading, there is one clear winner. If you are reading this then you are either 1) related to me and therefore obliged to show a passing interest in my life or 2) interested in the world of blogging. Either way this means that you just HAVE to go buy a copy of the best book of the year – Homepages, a wonderful collection of stories and photos from bloggers. Don’t be put off by the fact that I’ve a ridiculous piece in it about my disastrous efforts at home decorating. There are plenty of better writers to more than make up for what I lack. But the best part is that not only do you get a good read (you are promised both giggles and tears) you are also donating to charity.
It’s a win/win and that is why it is the best read of 2008! Entertain yourself while simultaneously massaging your conscience by purchasing a copy HERE.
Ridiculous, no. Hilarious and Sedaris-esque, yes.
(and dankjewel for the pluggage!)
catherine – No, you didn’t – have to reread your comment – you did, you really did! You mentioned Sedaris and me in the same sentence. I need to sit down, I’ve gone way too giddy…
off to buy the book now. i love a nice read, especially when i’m travelling home. thank you for the tip off
I’ve read your decorating contribution, and it had me scarpering for the paint brush and tin of paint prior to your arrival! The pressure to have my house looking decent for you is almost too much to handle!
townygirl – it’s perfect for over the Christmas
alan – hehe silly boy – you’ve seen what my place looks like for heaven’s sake!
i really need to buy that book, sugar! thanks for reminding me! xoxox
savannah – my pleasure
“best read of 2008!” – but I may not read it until 2009? – is there a guarantee ?
Well, I was hoping you might slip one into my stocking. And if you could leave a copy of the book behind when you are done, he he….
I’m thrilled to see what your number one song of they year is – thrilled and not in any way, shape or form surprised. Brilliant choice. So many happy memories.
quickroute – absolutely! There is a no money back guarantee!!
travelling – groan
No not in the least bit surprising. It also made the Pitchfork top ten though which is interesting.
I’d hope I would qualify for the most interesting hermits list, should you ever put one together. And I’m still waiting for my copy of Homepages to arrive. Can’t wait.
ann – you’d be top of the list
My copy (copies actually) should be waiting for me upon my return to the emerald isle next week
Ah I’ve seen it posted on other blogs and will defo get a copy after Christmas . . .and I’m on leave from the 20th so . .and completely off topic, how on earth do you pronounce your name! Your photo has caused much admiration of the Wonder Wall by fellow colleagues who are intrigued by your blue/brown eye . . to be posted tomorrow! You’re going home for Christmas? . . .have a wonderful time. I can’t wait for our prodigals to return next week.
Goodness, I have far too many books already, I do my best not to add any more. I’ve been working on my Most Idiotic Statements of 2008 list, but there are so many I’ve given up. So many celebs and politicians seem to speak first and think afterwards (if at all).
baino – well Conor is of course pronounced as normal and Conortje is said like Conor-chuh (with the ch like in Church) – I like to think my funny eye is a sign of genius. Sadly it isn’t!
nick – I know the feeling – I have a big stack that I’ve still to get through. I’m sure you wouldn’t feature anywhere near such a list
n
what a great, great idea! i tell you, with the irish blog awards and this book, i’m more tempted than ever to move to ireland, just so my blog can get the attention it so richly deserves.
(does it help that my paternal grandmother was irish? Monaghan.)
i have to figure out how much they’ll charge me to ship that book across the ocean, and then i’m definitely buying one.
and congratulations to you for being included in it. well deserved.
ooh you sexy thang I’m gonna buy this and massage my ego with it
Hmmm I don’t have money to buy any books right now, but I’ll happily be sponsored?
laurie – I’m sure a keen interest in the land is more than enough for you to qualify
emmak – hehe good girl yourself
marjolein – I need some of that myself believe you me – master courses don’t come cheap
Sounds like an interesting book! Love reading about other people’s lifestyle and whatnot. Have always wanted to compile one of my own. :-p
Conor! Hope you had a wonderful Christmas Day! Wishing you a safe holiday, merry festivities and speedy recovery from the consequential hangovers.
Gx
Wow…this work thing has got in the way of my blogging and especially my popping in to visit blogs, the book sounds great, thanks for the tip and your Christmas theme blog header looks FAB!!!
happy new year wherever you are, sugarpie! xoxox
Happy new year mister!
I just know the blue interrogation-room look will be in in 2009. Now go get hammered!