Phoenix Books

I'm still here...

2011-07-26T13:31:00.002-07:00

If you've been to Village Faire, you've seen the new shelves and the couple hundred extra books that are now up. Books there are just flying out the door! My on-line sales have picked-up as well ~ Thank you to those who have combed my inventory and come by to buy books! It's been a dreadful time lately with the move, my mom being sick and not having the store, so I appreciate the thoughtfulness.

Now for the public announcement portion of our program:

Have you heard of Poodle-dog Bush? There was an article in the LA Times this morning about it ~ apparently this lovely purple-flowered bush is growing rampant here in Socal and it's about 10 times worse than poison ivy, so Don't Touch!

Well, Phoenix is closed!

2011-07-06T18:43:00.000-07:00

I'm putting box after box of books out front, come by and help yourself ~ but please keep the area neat and don't take my plastic bins.

I am staying in the book biz (just not at a physical location) so if you're looking for something, feel free to call or e-mail. Also, I WILL keep my blog up and inventory current, and continue to stock Village Faire with quality used books. I have to move out of the building by Friday, so I'm not sure I'll be able to get there this week, but definitely next week.

A HUGE Thank You to everyone who came by this weekend and bought books, or gave happy wishes for my future. The saddest part of closing the store after 3 1/2 years is that I won't see my regulars regularly anymore! :-( Of course, it's Big Bear, so we'll run into each other sooner or later...

Cheers!

Two days left!

2011-07-04T06:20:00.000-07:00

I'm open today and tomorrow, please come by and help make my move just a bit lighter.

Only 42 boxes of cookbooks left ~ the more you buy, the less you'll pay! I'm adding lots of new stock, so even if you've already come by this weekend, there are tons of books you haven't seen yet.

There's still furniture left, two bookcases, farm table, two square tables, a huge wall hanging, kitchen hutch, two sets of four chairs and three cafe tables. Oh, and a treadmill and gardening trolley.

WHOO HOO!

2011-06-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

Well, something worked. Bank of America CALLED ME just now to let me know that the trustee sale has been postponed and a single person will be assigned to my case to help me modify my loan. Whew! I know I still have a trek ahead, but I'm not homeless.

Thank you to EVERYONE who has come by, e-mailed, called and texted with hugs and good wishes! It's awesome to know that so many people care about me and my situation.

Don't forget though, this is the last week of Phoenix Books' existence (for now anyway) ~ come on by to buy a bunch of books for cheap (I'd rather not move them!). If I don't see you, have an excellent Independence Day!

I know it's crass...

2011-06-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

but I'm desperate. Bank of America is foreclosing on my home. For 18 months now, I've been sending what I could, but not near my full mortgage payment, and the bank is tired of it ~ on June 29th, unless a miracle occurs, some lucky person will get a great deal on my home.

So, I'm asking for money... $1. If each of my blog followers will send $1 to Bank of America Home Loans, PO Box 515503, Los Angeles, CA 90051, account #82114856, I might have a chance. Since I'm asking you for money, I'll tell you: I drive a '92 Jeep, have $28 in savings, $112 in checking, I don't have credit cards, internet or kids, just dogs. My dtm job will enable me to pay my mortgage (and keep utilities) if I can just prevent foreclosure. I am really, sincerely grateful for any help you would provide.

Of course, the store is open until July 5th, so you could come in and buy lots of books!

Please don't wait, only two weeks left.

Wow!

2011-05-10T18:02:00.000-07:00

For several months I've been selling books on Amazon (Phoenix 'Bearly Used' Books) to bring in extra cash. It's challenging because there are many factors to take into account and lots of sellers to compete with for your business. If you've spent any time at all on Amazon, you've seen books for .01, yes, 1 cent! Plus $3.99 for shipping and handling. It's a really great deal for the buyer, but, after Amazon's take, packaging, and the actual shipping cost (not to mention the original price of the book and the seller's time listing, packing and mailing) the seller loses about .68 on the deal. However, the seller is counting on you remembering a good experience with them next time you're looking for a book and see their name, and the thousands of other books they are making money on.

At the other end of the spectrum, this blog is about a scientific book on Amazon priced over 23 MILLION dollars ~ yup, you read that right. Two sellers of this book have automatic algorithms in place to adjust the sales price to a competitive amount when another seller changes their price. Personally, I think it's terrible that an actual person isn't checking the listings, but I guess if you have hundreds of thousands books listed, it could take all day. But, the part I find to be really ghastly is that it seems that some sellers don't actually have the books they're selling in stock. They charge more for a book than someone else selling it and if theirs happens to sell, they order it from the someone else who ships it directly to the buyer. I guess everyone is getting what they want, but it just doesn't seem fair to me.

Do you order often from Amazon? What do you look for from a seller?

Last Day, Tuesday, July 5th

2011-05-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

If you have store credit, come on in and use it up (credit may NOT be used at Village Faire). If there's a book on the shelf you've been eying, come in and get it.

Because I will continue selling books in and around Big Bear, I will not be reducing prices in the store (they're pretty low already), but I will have '(parking) lot sales' to pass on much of my overstock. As a matter of fact, I think I'll start this weekend.

I will continue to accept book donations and books for minimal store credit that can be used immediately.

Also, much of the furniture will have to go, so if there's something you admire, let me know and I'll put your name on the list to call when it's time.

And even more disappointing...

2011-04-26T14:28:00.000-07:00

Phoenix is closing.

My landlord is asking me to leave, so that's it. I will continue to offer books in the Village Faire and hopefully other locations. I will have a sale in the near future for overstock, details to come.

So, take advantage of this great little store while you still can!

Well, this is disappointing...

2011-04-18T12:41:00.001-07:00

According to 60 Minutes and Jon Krakauer, Three Cups of Tea author Greg Mortenson is a big fat liar, though Mortenson himself will only admit to "a compressed version of events...". This is such a shame, not only because all those people who are legitimately helping children around the world will be questioned and doubted. To read the whole news story click here.

And because our tax returns are due today, I'll mention this little tidbit:
Other data from the IRS show that the tax bite on the very highest income taxpayers has fallen as their incomes have risen. In 2007, the top 400 individual tax returns had an average adjusted gross income of $345 million, up from $47 million in 1992. But their average tax rate was just 17%, down from 26% in 1992. (CNNMoney.com article)

On to happier things... I'm fostering a red female Pom, Brandy, who needs a home. I don't have any info on this girl except for what I've learned in the time she has been with me: she's older, really sweet but quite the beggar, likes dogs she can boss and runs from those she can't, whines when she needs to go out, loves attention, doesn't share, knows basic commands (and responds to them). It's not a great pic, she won't stay still long enough, but here she is, please please please let me know if you or someone you know may be interested in providing a home for this lovely girl. Thank you!

I've been reading...

2011-04-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

a lot lately. My TBR stack is teetering, so I'm attempting to stabilize it by getting it shorter. Last week I finished The Breach by Patrick Lee ~ could NOT put this one down, an interesting combination of action/science fiction, and the ending was a complete surprise; then, They Did It With Love by Kate Morganroth which was not what I thought it was going to be but was excellent.

Next, for something completely different, Jasper Fforde's Shades of Grey: a far cry from his usual fantasy writing, and in my opinion, not as good. He's planning a trilogy for this story and it shows, the characters were incomplete and the ending was hurried to then abruptly there.

Today I've started A Long Way Down by About a Boy and High Fidelity author Nick Hornby. Four people about to commit suicide meet on top of a building on New Year's Eve and see each other as a kind of lifeboat - fantastic and oddly funny. Of course, I'm only a third of the way through, but Hornby is a pretty consistently pleasing author, so I have high hopes.

What are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

People amaze me.

2011-04-04T14:20:00.000-07:00

Very often, I think we use that term in the negative, but in this post, it's definitely positive.

One of the links on the left side of my blog is Letters of Note ~ if you haven't looked at it, you really should. The most current post is a letter written in 2009 from 6-year-old Sam Pointon to the National Railway Museum in York. Sam heard that the director of the museum was about to retire and sent a letter applying for the job. He was actually hired on as Director of Fun ~ how cute is that?!

On the flip side, there's also the letter that John Hinckley wrote and sent to Jodie Foster offering to kill President Ronald Reagan to show his love for her. Ew!

Re: Your Stupid Complaint is a response by the Cleveland Brown counsel (in 1974) to Mr Dale Cox who complained about the fans dangerous pastime of making and throwing paper airplanes made from the game program. His lawyer sent a letter ensuring the stadium he would hold them responsible if any of his party were injured by said airplanes. This one is hilarious and not to be missed (but you have to go there to read it!).

My final read for the day is a 1945 letter from Kurt Vonnegut, Jr to his family from a repatriation camp after he was freed by the bombing of Dresden.

For the most part, the posted letters are touching, encouraging and/or happy. I wonder if in e-mails and texts we generally communicate in a pleasant or disagreeable manner? Are we as polite as we were with the written-on-paper word?

One of the more interesting ideas...

2011-03-28T12:30:00.000-07:00

I've come across lately was the '100 Thing Challenge'. Tom looked around one day at all of his stuff and decided to opt out of American consumerism and unburden himself. He decided that 100 items was enough for one person and started purging. Tom personalized the rules for his challenge a bit ~ he has a wife and children and chose to not impose his stuff-reduction on them, he didn't count household items (dishes, pots and pans, bedding, common-area furniture, etc) or socks and underwear (fewer pieces would increase laundry loads so was impractical), and as an avid reader and wood-worker decided to count his books and tools each as one item. Tom's current list has 92 items which includes one pen, one pencil, camping gear, an assortment of clothing and a guitar.

Reading about Tom, caused me to look around at my stuff. Many of you know that I moved to Big Bear after losing my home in Central Valley, California to an electrical fire. It was a 2,400 sq ft house filled with stuff ~ I collected tins, tea cups, tea pots, books (obviously), quilts, t-shirts, rocking chairs, jeez the list goes on (and on). In less than an hour it was ALL gone. Initially, it was devastating, but moving to Big Bear with a pick-up truck was pretty awesome, and I have since been really careful about bringing more stuff into my life. Now I collect books and tea pots and that's it. However, I look around and still feel that I have more stuff than I need, so this week, I'll start culling.

And you? Ever get the feeling your stuff is owning you?

A couple months ago...

2011-03-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

I re-read a book that my dad had given me when I was a teen. I remembered really enjoying it, so I found a copy, then finally got around to reading it. Frankly, as an adult, I found it very disturbing, though I'm not sure why exactly. However, one thing I can say with surety, it gave me a traveling bug ~ I am ready to pack a bag and go somewhere, the farther the better.

Now, that's completely unrealistic. I'm broke and I have a job and a business that people expect me to show up to, so I daydream about selling everything, packing a bag and cooler, throwing the dogs in the car (of course they would come with!) and going. I have friends across this beautiful country of ours, I could stay with for short spans and I'm not adverse to camping (as long as coffee and a hot shower are available each morning). More time would be spent out moving and seeing than driving, staying more north in the summer and south during spring and autumn. I haven't been to Mount Rushmore, and though I have been to the Library of Congress, I'd like to spend days more; it's already been almost two years since I last went to Michigan to visit family. So, there you go, one of my daydreams.

Your turn ~ where do your daydreams take you?

I am of the opinion...

2011-03-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

that life is better lived when we're NOT in front of a computer screen, television, Wii (even if you are playing tennis as my dad's wife does), or head-down to a smartphone. However, I can attest to the ease at which I can pass hours in what feels like minutes lost in bad end-of-the-world movies (my favorite), finding apps that will make my life easier (lol), and moving from blog to other blog as I did this afternoon. I started at a customer's blog, about astrology ~ not my thing, but I was curious how she was doing; then I re-found Seth's Blog (Seth Godin, if you have a small business, you should read this one); which led me to Amazon and The Thank You Economy by Gary Vaynerchuk, which tells us the future of marketing is within social networks and how to use them to our advantage; from there I checked out Evil Plans: Having Fun on the Road to World Domination (Hugh MacLeod) about how to do what you want to do and be successful at it; one of the reviewers, Marlon A Ribunal of Long Beach, CA has a website Productivity Bits, Smart Bits & Tips to Maximize Productivity and Efficiency at Work or Home-Office, which seems to have some interesting information, but is issued in 'bits' several pages long ~ I think Marlon would be more efficient if he wrote shorter blogs; a follower of Marlon, Adventure-Some Matthew has an excellent post Free Inspiration you should read, which refers to Tom, The Practical Nerd; and then I came here to tell you about it! Whew! What are your favorite time-wasting blogs or sites? Who's words do you have fed to you so you won't miss out?

All (or at least some) things books...

2011-03-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

You could say some people have too much time on their hands, or that some people are just uber-clever...

Book

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A book is a set or collection of written, printed, illustrated, or blank sheets, made of paper, parchment, or other various material, usually fastened together to hinge at one side. A single sheet within a book is called a leaf, and each side of a leaf is called a page. A book produced in electronic format is known as an electronic book (e-book).

Books may also refer to works of literature, or a main division of such a work. In library and information science, a book is called a monograph, to distinguish it from serial periodicals such as magazines, journals or newspapers. The body of all written works including books is literature. In novels and sometimes other types of books (e.g. biographies), a book may be divided into several large sections, also called books (Book 1, Book 2, Book 3, etc.). A lover of books is usually referred to as a bibliophile, a bibliophilist, or a philobiblist, or, more informally, a bookworm.

A store where books are bought and sold is a bookstore or bookshop. Books can also be borrowed from libraries.

In 2010, Google estimated that there were approximately 130 million unique books in the world.

Please support your local community by supporting independent businesses!

Attention Sci-fi / Fantasy fans!

2011-02-24T17:59:00.000-08:00

I've got hundreds of classic (most '60's - '80's) Science Fiction and Fantasy hardcovers ~ I don't have time to look-up each and price them with all the new books I have to go through, so I will offer these gems for $2.50 each this weekend only!

Well, we got a bit of snow!

2011-02-22T14:10:00.000-08:00

Personally, I love the snow, and I know it helps the economy of Big Bear Valley; it's some work digging out the parking lot (especially the berms and re-berms, darn plow-guys), but it just makes everything look clean and shiny, and creates a still and quiet that is usually only felt in the dead of night.I've said before, I don't get to read as much as I would like, but I do manage to read several books a month. I just finished The Vintner's Luck by Elizabeth Knox ~ if you've read it, I'd like to know what you think ~ and I'm picking up Catch-22 by Joseph Heller for probably the 25th time. For me, it's a great all-around book: laughter, horror, sadness, laughter, chagrin, impatience, love, frustration, black-eyes and feathers-in-caps, nudity and a bit more horror.Each time I read it, I notice something new, understand something a little deeper and always belly-laugh-out-loud. If you haven't read it, if it's been years, or (especially) if you saw the movie ~ you're missing out.

Do you have a book you revisit every couple of years (or more)? What book? and Why?

Many of you have seen...

2011-02-11T12:50:00.000-08:00

the changes to the store, but for those who haven't: Fiction has moved to the Green room, Sci-fi/Fantasy is in the hallway, and Faith-based is in the Blue room. This helped me add about 500 more books with more on the way. It's been a couple of weeks since I've updated the on-line inventory list, but it's done now, though I have more books to add this weekend.

While some customers are encouraging about Phoenix only being open on weekends, I have received more flack, the biggest argument being as locals we stay home Friday through Sunday. Unfortunately, the reality is: I'm not making a living owning a bookstore. Please believe, I do NOT want to drive to Venice and be away from home several days each week but that is the job that will start paying my bills. However, I'm open to negotiations ~ if you have a reasonable idea that accommodates my customers and my Monday - Wednesday schedule dtm, let me know.

Seems like I haven't been around much...

2011-01-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how just a few days down the mountain can make the balance of the week feel so short! But, while I'm down here, I'll go shopping for books tomorrow and fill the shelves up with fascinating tomes!

On a side note, Blogger tracks all of the visitors to my blog and it's interesting (to me) to note that the majority of my followers use Internet Explorer (try Firefox, it's quicker and not as parasitical as IE) and only 3% are Mac users. A full 19% are using smartphones, but those are presumably visitors looking for hours and location.

Oh, and my friend Joyce, who's Maltese Boo ran away, got a new little female Maltese, Carli ~ she's a cutie.Can't wait to get home, even though I'm near the beach, it's just not like being on the mountain!

2011 brings change!

2011-01-15T06:16:00.000-08:00

I start my new job on Monday, so for the last two weeks of January, Phoenix will be closed on Monday and Tuesday.

As of February 1st, Phoenix will only be open Friday and Saturday, 10a-6p and Sunday, Noon-4p (I will extend Sundays hours if it becomes necessary). I will keep books in Village Faire, and am working on having other point-of-sale locations in the valley for your convenience. I will continue to accept books, order books you need, offer gift certificates and provide a cozy, comfortable space with a great selection of gently used books.

Hooray! I got the job!

2011-01-11T07:18:00.000-08:00

So, beginning next week, two days each week, I'll be going down to Venice to work and the store will be closed. I'm still not sure which two days, that hasn't been decided, but as soon as I know, you'll know. Thank you for understanding!

Tiffiny

Happy New Year!

2011-01-07T23:23:00.000-08:00

During the last couple of years, the weeks following Christmas were good enough to make up for the achingly slow weeks previous ~ this year, however, did not follow suit. At this rate, unless by some miracle I sell my house, I won't make it through March. If you have store credit with Phoenix, I suggest you come in and use it up.

In the same vein, I am trying for a part-time job in LA, one or two days a week, to help with the bills. So, it may come about that Phoenix will be closed additional and varied days during the week, but that remains to be seen...

On the bright side, my space in Village Faire is doing well and I'm looking for other spaces in the Valley to rent; if you have an empty wall or know someone who's thought about renting a small area, please contact me.

Despite few customers, I've been busy putting books on the shelves and there's a pretty good selection ~ come on by and check it out!

It's like Christmas all over again!

2010-12-29T07:31:00.000-08:00

I went to LA yesterday on a book hunt - I have two 'stores' to stock now with excellent used books - and hit the jackpot! My car was full up yesterday when I returned. It will take a couple of days to process them all, but I've already started the first batch that will hit the shelves this morning.

The snow is really coming down and I have to get to Vons for dog fud ~ if you're out there too, use care please ~ I can't afford to lose any customers, lol!

It turns out...

2010-12-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

my SO has to work at the mountain today, so Phoenix Books will be open at 10am as usual. I don't know if I'll stay open until 6, we'll see how the day goes. So, if you need some quiet time after the excitement of the morning, come on by, buy a book (or several) and relax a bit.

Only 1 shopping day left...

2010-12-23T15:56:00.000-08:00

if you're one of those who leave it 'til the last minute. I have some nice First Editions and sets available, plus a whole passel of really good books in excellent condition for cheap!

Phoenix Books will be open tomorrow, Friday, December 24th until at least 2pm, after that, call first to check if I'm still here.

If I don't see you I wish you a Merry Christmas or an excellent weekend!

Tiffiny

Folks, I'm Sorry!

2010-12-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

Due to some serious flooding at the store, I won't be open today. As long as the rain stops or turns to snow, I will open again tomorrow at 10.

But, paint and shelves are going up today at The Village Faire, so Phoenix Books should be available in Big Bear Lake tomorrow. Yippee!

Stay dry and be careful!

Good news!

2010-12-19T16:04:00.000-08:00

In order to try to raise my sales, I have taken a small space in The Village Faire to offer books at the other end of the valley. So, for those of you in BBL, you'll have the option of running to the village to get quality, inexpensive used books from Phoenix Books. If you tend to consult the Available Books pages before coming, those books stocked at the Faire will be designated P2. Books at Phoenix can be delivered to P2 if that's more convenient, however books purchased through the Faire will be priced nominally higher.

I will try to have everything set-up and running this Tuesday, December 21st (depending on the weather). If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to call, e-mail or come by. Looking forward!

Only 18 more shopping days...

2010-12-06T15:27:00.000-08:00

Come into Phoenix to find inexpensive presents. Did you know most of our paperbacks are $2-$3 and hardbacks are mostly $4? And we'll gift wrap it for you!

Carla Ogilvie formerly of Edelweiss Books brought in some very nice new games and puzzles, now 50% off.

Still haven't convinced you? Come by, spend a few minutes looking ~ you'll be pleasantly surprised...

I went shopping yesterday...

2010-12-01T16:51:00.000-08:00

and came back with over 200 books, that will hit the shelves tomorrow.

There's some really good stuff here, folks ~ in Fiction, I got more Flynn, Cussler, Woods and Coben; found lots of good Memoirs, Reference and Military books. Since so many new books have been added, I'll update the website 'Available Books' list tonight.

Remember Phoenix when thinking about gifts, many of our books are in gift-giving condition. We'll also offer complimentary* gift wrapping until Christmas.

Oh, and we're offering large wood bundles for $8 if you're in the mood for a romantic fire while you read...

*minimum $5 purchase per wrapping.

Small Business Saturday...

2010-11-28T14:41:00.001-08:00

was not as successful in the valley as I would have liked, but it was a good day anyway.

Regardless, this holiday season, please remember those independent, brick-and-mortar businesses that you appreciate having in your neighborhood and help keep them around by patronizing them a couple times each month.

Thank you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T17:53:00.000-08:00

Hope your day is excellent and relaxing! I'm going to spend the day with my boyfriend and family ~ as they are all excellent cooks, it will be a day of feasting.

Phoenix will be open regular hours on Friday, hope to see you there!

Take care, travel safely,

Tiffiny

Slopes are open and snow's on the way...

2010-11-17T18:41:00.000-08:00

but if you're not a skier or boarder how will you pass the time?

Come by Phoenix Books and pick-up a great book (or three)! Over 4,000 books in stock ~ Memoirs, Military, Humor, Fiction, Self-help, Travel and more. Cozy, warm atmosphere, organized shelves and help if you need it.

See you soon!

Oooops...

2010-11-15T10:33:00.001-08:00

My guest book was left in front of the store this evening ~ thank you for returning it!

Apparently one of my Sunday customers accidentally picked-up my guest book. It's a dark leather-bound book with a Frank Lloyd Wright imprint on the front. Please return it as soon as you get a chance. If you need to mail it: 801 W Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear City, 92314. Thank you in advance for your speedy attention!

I don't get to read as much as you'd think...

2010-11-08T13:52:00.000-08:00

it's a lot of work running a small business, but I do read as often as I can. As a matter of fact, I just finished Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith.

It wasn't what I expected. I thought I was in for a Christopher Moore-like farcical story, but Grahame-Smith instead incorporated vampires into Abraham Lincoln's entire existence in a serious and believable way. Abe first learns of vampires after his mother, Nancy, dies not of 'milk sickness' but of poison from a vampire after Lincoln's father, Thomas, is unable to repay a loan. So begins Abraham Lincoln's knowledge and hatred of vampires, then his hunting of those he recognizes as such. Later it becomes his quest to rid America of vampires (and slavery) when he learns they're using slaves bought and sold just for food. We know how the story ends of course ~ or do we?

Help! I need my customers back...

2010-11-03T17:19:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, when I was considering not renewing my lease, I received positive feedback about Phoenix and requests begging me not to give up- that Big Bear needs a good used book store. I did renew my lease and I continue keeping the shelves stocked with a wide selection of books at reasonable prices but the numbers are in ~ the last two months I have averaged less than $40 a day (it costs $55 a day just to keep the store open, not including my personal costs, i.e., mortgage, utilities, groceries, gas, etc).

Folks I'm asking again, visit Phoenix or check out the 'Available Book List' from the comfort of your home: buy a book or two or more, tell your friends, customers and fellow workers about Phoenix (if they mention you sent them, I'll give you a discount the next time you come buy). I know it's tough for everyone but to stay open (with lights and heat), I need 23 people each day to buy just one hardcover book ~ that's it. Pretty small beans.

So please come by, bring your friends, buy books.

Thank you, Tiffiny

Phoenix will be Closed this Sunday,

2010-10-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

October 31st ~ Halloween. I apologize for any inconvenience, and will re-open Monday at 10:00 am.

I have updated...

2010-10-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

and revised the 'Available Book List' page.

Now the list is divided by genre to a page to make searching for exactly what you want easier (I think). Constructive feedback is welcome!

Spoooky...

2010-10-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 30, High Country Paranormal is having a meet and greet here at Phoenix. From 4:00 - 8:00 they'll offer refreshments, books (of course), a raffle and themselves (not literally), to answer questions, explain their equipment and what they do. Please come join us!

The 'Treats for Our Troops' box...

2010-10-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

is looking pretty empty, folks. Bring by your donation of nuts, sunflower seeds, beef jerky, candy, gum, coffee, toiletries, magazines and try to get the box filled before the end of the month!

The Sale is Extended...

2010-09-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

through Friday. I have so much overstock, I'm running out of room for it. Please, come by, get a great deal and help me out!

Selected books are $1 ea or 5 for $3.50.

Don't forget ~ Book Signing, this Saturday!

2010-09-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

Please come join me and meet local author RL Lazenby, this Saturday, September 25th, 1 - 4 pm.

Refreshments will be provided.

And, we're having a huge sale (select books: $1 ea, 5 for $3.50) to reduce inventory, so come by and get lots of books!

Crap!

2010-07-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

Phoenix was burgled last night. They only (ugh!) took my cash register and my cute little cup filled with change, oh and all of Jeff's Gourmet Jerky. So, for a few days (at least) I will be working out of an envelope ~ if you have a register or cash box I can borrow, that would be great. Thanks for your understanding!

Thank you!

2010-07-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

To everyone who has kindly told your friends about Phoenix, donated books, and come by to buy one or several. Just please don't stop!

And... Phoenix Books is hosting a Book Signing for a local, new author: RL Lazenby of his just published book Wild Horse Junction. Come by Saturday, August 7th, 1-4 pm to meet and chat with the author and, of course, for cookies.

Speaking of which: I want to do more for our troops, how about you? I'm going to start a box to send overseas when full (and then another...) ~ if you'd like to drop stuff off that would be awesome. I know baked goods (vacuum sealed, if you can), candy, gum, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, trail mixes, power bars, magazines (hot rod, hunting/fishing), coffee, jerky, toiletries (for men and women) are always welcome, and cards/notes saying thanks. I have e-mails in to active-duty friends, as I get a more suggestions I'll add them. Thanks again!

I must have been delusional at the time...

2010-06-28T17:36:00.001-07:00

but I have renewed my lease for another year (baby steps). So, you'll still have a resource for quality, inexpensive used books, yippee!

However, on a more depressing note, my bank account was compromised and subsequently put on hold. As Arrowhead doesn't inform customers of issues, I wasn't aware until going into the bank this morning. This will only affect you if you requested that a book be ordered this month ~ until today, they had all been denied. The issue has been resolved, my pittance is again safe and all outstanding orders have been resubmitted and accepted. Thank you for understanding!

In the week following...

2010-06-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day, so many books were available, they almost seemed to walk through the door of their own volition. Subsequently, I have added almost 400 books to the shelves in the last week, with more each day (whew, it's a lot of work!). So, if you're looking for an excellent read, come on by and see what tickles your fancy!

I'm ready to throw in the towel...

2010-06-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Business has dropped by almost 70% in the last two months and, as much as I love owning a book store, I'm at risk of losing my home, sanity and stomach lining. So, unless something changes dramatically in the next few weeks, I will not renew my lease in August. Please tell your friends and family to support locally run businesses before leaving the mountain or going on-line. Thank you! Tiffiny

We're having a SaleThis Thursday, 27 May

2010-05-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

All hardcovers in the store will be 50% off (with some exclusions). Come on by to get some deals!

Yippee!

2010-04-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

The lovely girls, Sunny and Savannah, have found a home! A nice local lady came in on Saturday and saw the flier, Sunday she came by my home to meet them and today she picked them up. What a relief, for them as well as me, they weren't so happy with five dogs running through the house. Thank you Marianne for welcoming them into your home!

Good news and sad news...

2010-04-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

Good news: Phoenix Books is now open 7 days a week. My friend Kathy has agreed to cover for me Tuesdays and my Reserve weekends (I haven't had the nerve to ask about the two-weeks yet;-) ). So, no more trying to remember which day I'm not here ~ every day, 10am - 6pm.

Sad news: These two sweet 2-year-old girls, Savannah and Sunny need a new home. Their mom had to move off the mountain and despite her best efforts was unable to re-home them before leaving. So, I'm caring for them until homes can be found. Please, please tell everyone you know ~ I have six pets of my own, and really can't keep them long-term.

Both girls are spayed and up-to-date on their shots.

Everyday...

2010-03-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

I take the time to scroll through the news thumbnails on my yahoo home page. Several days ago there was a story about a teacher who is eating food from the school cafeteria every day this year and blogging (see Fed Up With School Lunch on the left of my page) about it. The food looks a lot ickier than I remember our caf food being, so kudos to Mrs Q who blogs that she's already gaining weight...

Today had a blip from The Washington Post, about a very kind man, Reed Sandridge, who's giving $10 each day to someone he encounters even though he's currently unemployed. His mom taught him "that when you're going through tough times, that's when you most need to give back". Mr. Sandridge blogs every day about who got the $10 and what they're going to do with the money ~ you can read his stories here: YearofGiving.

Those who know me...

2010-03-15T12:00:00.001-07:00

know that I'm an advocate for Medical Marijuana, I've seen the difference it makes in people's lives. So, I have again scheduled a licensed doctor to see patients and issue letters as necessary. Please come on by or call me, 909.725.0714, to make an appointment or with any questions.

Friday, March 26, 2010
10:00am - 3:30pm

I don't watch a lot of television,

2010-02-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

but when I do, BBC America is one of the first channels I check. Too, I'm a huge fan of 'the world's gonna end' or 'all the people are dying' scenarios, so when I saw ads for the new series, Survivors, I couldn't miss it. A flu virus has spread 'round the world killing 99% of the population and a few who are left find each other (there have only been two episodes, so I can't give much more than that).

Each has their own idea about what to do next: the one person who had the flu and lived is hoping her seven-year-old son has survived also and needs to find him; the escaped prisoner; the formerly-rich playboy who is sure the government, big-businesses and utilities will soon be up-and-running so he can return to his previous lifestyle; the young muslim boy who's sure his family is safe in another town if he can just get to them; the doctor who believes in this new world she can be a new person; and the one guy who really understands what's happened and only wants to find a farm to work and be alone.

IMO, it's off to a good start. Like most tv series, I recognized the actor's faces but don't know the names; the fx are minimal; the story-line is strong and the direction is excellent. Something I noticed and really like: behind the music, there's a subtle sound of flies that grows louder as the character nears a body, and the unknown dead are only partially revealed instead of seen in gory detail. Almost in the reverse, when the 'survivors' encounter each other, there's the sound of birds chirping faintly in the background.

In this time of Olympics and post-holiday lull, there aren't many choices but I think if you're going to watch television, Survivors is a worthwhile watch.

Maybe you can help me...

2010-02-13T16:20:00.000-08:00

This question has plagued me since I first opened a bookstore:

What responsibility, if any, does a bookseller have to keep (possibly) inappropriate material from young people?

Some books, The Kama Sutra, How to Smash Everyone to Pieces by Mike Segretto and The Guide to Getting it On by Goofy Foot Press, are easy ~ I put a MA (mature audience) tag in it (for the odd prudish adult) and stick it on a shelf with lots of other books.

However, today a young (12 or so) girl came in looking for The Lovely Bones, by Alice Sebold. Maybe I am completely out of touch with kids of the world today but I don't think this is suitable for anyone who can't drive yet. Now, I didn't have the book in stock, but I did ask her dad if he knew what it was about. He didn't, just knew there was a movie out, so I suggested (out of earshot of his daughter) he read the cover before purchasing it for her.

This is not the first time I have asked a parent to do such a thing prior to selling a book and most of the time the book ends up back on the shelf ~ and I'm okay with that; if it doesn't ~ I'm okay with that, too. Here's my big secret, whenever I have them in, I put the Twilight series books in the storage closet. Anyone who drives themselves here and asks for them, can have 'em; but when a pack of giggling teens walks in, it's "Sorry, they're so popular, I just can't keep them in".

What do you think?

For reasons you probably wouldn't care to hear...

2010-02-12T15:35:00.000-08:00

I joined Twitter. As a twitterer, I chose to follow Neil Gaiman (who if you haven't read you really must ~ he's fantastic; try American Gods or Neverwhere). One of his twits(?) led me to a link, http://tinyurl.com/yz6lyzo, describing an exchange between Harlan Ellison (now, everyone must have heard of him!) and Mike. Putting aside how cool it would be to get a note from Mr Ellison signed "Pleased and stunned, I am, yr. pal", his point is valid. Is it okay for us to just take content: art, words and/or ideas, from other pages, even giving credit (if not money) where credit is due, to use on our own page/blog/site. Then again, who's to stop us?

Valentine's Day is just around the corner...

2010-02-11T15:12:00.000-08:00

...and love is in the air! The 3/50 Project is reminding everyone to support your local florist, stationery store or sweetshop (or bookstore, as the case may be) when gifting this year. Have a happy!

Douglas Adams is definitely...

2010-02-03T15:40:00.000-08:00

one of my favorite authors. I was re-reading The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul, and one passage struck me...

"My own strategy is to find a car, or the nearest equivalent, which looks as if it knows where it's going and follow it. I rarely end up where I was intending to go, but often I end up somewhere that I needed to be. So, what do you say to that?"

"Piffle."

That could be Phoenix (not the piffle, the bit before that). I always feel chagrined when folks come in looking for a specific book that I don't have (especially, when they turn and walk out before I can say, "Have you tried so-n-so?"). I think, used-book stores are a place to browse the shelves and piles, until a title or cover catches your eye, or you remember an author you read years ago and really enjoyed but haven't revisited in ages.

So, I say about Phoenix, "You'll rarely find what you intended to get, but you'll often find what you needed..."

The parking lot is clear!

2010-01-28T16:54:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, I dug out just enough room for two cars; those darn plow-guys must have thought I was doing them a favor, 'cause last night they pushed the street snow into a 6' ice berm in those spots. I had to give in and barter with a friend to move the snow ~ I thought he was only going to make room for several cars to park parallel to Pine View, but he was kind enough to clear the whole lot.

So, come on by, I'm open regular hours, to get some reading material for next week (possible snow Wed, Fri-Sat)!

Finally, dear customers,

2010-01-25T14:43:00.000-08:00

I made it in. Phoenix was open for several hours this afternoon; and while the parking lot isn't completely clear, there are a couple of spots and a narrow (just as wide as the shovel) walkway. I brought in loads of new books from my time down the mountain, however, I have misplaced my flash drive, so have not yet updated the on-line list.

The forecast is again predicting snow. Unless we wake up to it, I will open tomorrow (Tuesday) until the snow actually starts, to give anyone out of reading material the chance to stock up. You're welcome to call and make sure I'm here before making the drive!

Snow is imminent...

2010-01-17T15:29:00.000-08:00

Even NAOO.gov is forecasting lots of snow, some rain and high winds for the next week; Vons and Staters is running out of just about everything, and oddly, floods of flatlanders are in town.

I am tentatively planning on being closed next week, and am going down the mountain for at least a couple of days. If you're thinking of coming by, please call to make sure we'll be here, 909.725.0714.

Stay safe!

Don't forget...

2010-01-14T13:17:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, High Country Paranormal is having a meet and greet here at Phoenix. From 6:30 - 8:00 they'll offer refreshments, books (of course), a raffle and themselves (not literally), to answer questions, explain their equipment and what they do. Please come join us!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

Hoping the upcoming years bring joy to you and yours...

I can't believe I didn't think of it earlier!

2009-12-12T16:43:00.000-08:00

I have been a reader and bibliophile my whole life ~ I was about six years old when I first decided I wanted to own a bookstore (though I'm not sure at the time I realized I would have to give up the books if someone wanted them). When I finally did open a bookstore, there were specific ideals I wanted to fulfill that not all used book stores bother with. Like, reasonably priced special orders, an on-line list of all available books, designation of books that are part of a series, and clean books (all stickers, cup rings, goo, dog-ears, tears, etc are fixed prior to shelving).

When I realized early this morning that what I don't have are links from my on-line list to Amazon.com's description page for each book, I was stunned I hadn't even thought of it. So, that's my next project. As the Phoenix-booklist page is updated, you'll notice that moving your cursor over a title will underline that title, and clicking on it will take you to Amazon for all the information they provide for that book. I hope this will make your book shopping just a bit easier...

Well.

2009-12-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

This is today in Big Bear...

Now, since this is Southern California and not say, Montana, everyone who's not going to or from work is at home by the fire. This gives a solitary employee (or business owner) time to mull.

So, I took the time to read through my Book Journal and revisit the good and bad from the last several years. I wish it was something I started as a youngster, instead of in my late-30's. Each page is dedicated to one book: title, author, total pages, date started, then finished, a brief synopsis, and what I thought about the book. Mine is a small journal, 5x7, and hand-written, so I can't get too wordy or long-winded. Sometimes I don't finish a book; if I generally liked the book but the timing is wrong, I put a post-it on that page so I'll know to re-visit that book.

I've never been a journal keeper: I got through adolescence, the military, losing my house (and everything in it) to fire, and other major dramas of my life without writing down my thoughts and feelings. Books, though, are such an integral part of my life: as a bookstore owner, bibliophile and reader, it's important to me to note my experiences with each one. Also, tracking them this way gives a kind of retrospective of my life through it's recent years.

Do you keep a Book Journal?

She says it all...

2009-12-01T10:41:00.000-08:00

Winter's First Snow!

2009-11-28T10:55:00.000-08:00

So we've gotten a few inches of snow and all of Big Bear is mucked up... However, the scenery is lovely and peaceful, and the dogs are having a ball!

The holidays are upon us...

2009-11-15T11:52:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving, then Christmas and the New Year (2010, OMG!) are right around the corner. Phoenix has lots of Christmas decorating, cooking and storybooks available. Of the 4,000+ books available in Phoenix, many are in gift-giving condition. There won't be a Black Friday here, but our prices are always so good, you'll still get a great deal!

Help!

2009-11-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Foster found a home!

Well, someone was nice enough to leave this lovely girl tied outside of Phoenix this afternoon. I would like to think they'll be back to get her, but it doesn't seem likely. She's an adult, good size, 'bout 50? lbs, sweet, seemed to like having her pic taken, Boxer-x, bit clingy (but she's just been abandoned, too), fine with the little dog, whines to go out, really needs a bath, and I think, needs to be spayed. Anyone looking for an addition, consider this girl. Tell everyone you know, please!

Update: Foster has been with us for three days now and honestly, if it weren't for Audio (and the fact I already have five dogs) I would keep this girl. As she gets more comfortable with us, she's calmed down, isn't as clingy though she still likes me to be in her eye-line. She's a good store dog - she needs to check everyone out, but once a customer pets her she comes back to me. She doesn't care to be outside, even with the other dogs, so does her business then whines to come back in. When I do leave her out, she'll bark once or twice at passersby, but that's it. One of the funniest things she does is fall asleep standing up ~ maybe she'll miss something if she gets comfortable?