A Good Read

After finally returning to the library with a list of books to look for, I was happy to come home with the first one on my list, The Immigrants by Howard Fast. 

I have yet to finish the novel, however, this fantastic historical story has drawn me in and I feel as though I am living with the characters as I am lead through their lives.  All of the reviews for this book truthfully tell how wonderful it is. 

I already know I will enjoy the rest of the novel and am excited to finish it as well.  If you are looking for a great book set in the past that unwinds into an amazing story of the rise and fall of several families, The Immigrants, is a book for you! 

High Rises to Gravel Roads

Within the course of two days, I drove on back roads in the country as well as rode the subway in the city of Chicago. 

This past Monday I took a short trip to Chicago for my interview that will help determine what I will be doing in the near future and where I will be doing it!  After being at home for some time, driving in the city again was almost strange to me!  Not to mention the drivers in Chicago are much different than those in San Antonio. 

On my walk to my interview it was really interesting to walk downtown in my professional dress and not feel completely out of place.  I was sharing the sidewalk with many others who were on their lunch breaks or heading back to their work downtown.  I do have to say though that anyone would know I was out of town just by looking at my phone!  My old Motorola flip phone did not fit in well with IPhones and other Smartphones.  Oh well, I do believe I had a successful interview (no matter what my phone looks like) and am excited to learn what comes next.

After enjoying downtown, I jumped on the Blue Line and headed back to meet up with my friend's husband.  We spent the rest of the afternoon at the movies and out on a walk with dog, Titan, while Kayla was busy at school.  Italian was on the menu for supper and great conversation before slipping away to super sleep! 

Tuesday began a most beautiful day!  The sun was out and it wasn't too warm with a nice slight breeze.  Breakfast of rolls, pastries, and donuts from a nearby bakery as well as coffee and tea from the coffee shop K works at was very delicious and enjoyed out on the patio.  Another short walk with Mr. Titan and it was time for me to head back west. 

If I could say one thing that Illinois could do away with, I would say TOLLS!!  On I-88, I had to pay $5-$6 dollars for a stretch of 45-65 miles.  But it was worth it as I was able to meet up with three of my friends with whom I attended K-State.  It was so great to meet to catch up and chat and enjoy a little time together! 

Soon it was time to head home and on my way north I was able to travel on a two mile stretch of a good old gravel road.  From Tollways to gravel roads, its amazing where my life takes me!  Just a simple visit to friends can become an interesting journey along the way!

Reading List

I recently went to the library and realized upon my arrival that I had no clear direction as to what book I would like to read.  Therefore, I have decided to make it my duty to come up with a list of books that I should read so the next time I head to the library I am not stumped!

• The Immigrants by Howard Fast
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
• A Bend in the River by V. S. Naipaul
• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
• Beloved by Toni Morrison
• The Assault by Harry Mulisch  

This is certainly just the beginning of a very long list.  Over time I will hopefully continue to add to the titles listed here.  Just read an amazing book?  Pass it along, book suggestions are always welcome!!

Wasting Time

I like to think that I don't waste time very often.  However, when I find good time wasters, I'm such an addict!

After reading a fellow friend's blog, I came across a new and exciting website that I have truly been enjoying this past week called Stumble Upon.  I have decided it is my new favorite method of wasting time and energy on the Internet.  This website lets you 'Stumble' onto new and different sites with articles, games, music players, photos, or funny stories that all cater to your individual interests.

As I've eaten up my day on this site I have discovered three to four new Internet radio websites that have new and exciting ways to choose the music you want to hear.  I have also stumbled upon beautiful photos of the Milky Way and Northern Lights.  Some other favorites include a funny video with a young baby elephant bathing in its own tub or the hilarious phone conversation a man put an AT&T telemarketer through!

I know there are probably more productive ways to spend my days; however, sometimes I like to take a break from being productive.  Getting into a superb book is another addiction that I can only break once I finish the book.  Also, recently, Julie and I have gotten back into watching Gilmore Girls.  Any minute spent watching Lorelai and Rory is a precious one!

I am not advocating that everyone starts wasting away their day, but to do it with style!  You can grow smarter by stumbling, more intellectual by reading, and happier by grabbing a cup of coffee at Luke's Diner in Stars Hollow.  Happy Day!