Burning Brightly

As some of you may know, Stephenie Meyer's Twilight is now a "movie in the making." It's exciting, but I'm a bit skeptical after seeing the trailer.  

Believe it or not, my students don't usually fall asleep during library class. However, I think I'll try this with them anyway... or on myself for that matter. =)

Stimulating Sleepy Students -- Acupuncturists Show Students How to Stay
Awake by Stimulating Pressure Points

http://www.sciencedaily.com/videos/2006/0106-stimulating_sleepy_students.htm

"Simple techniques inspired by traditional Chinese medicine may help
students stay awake during class. Researchers report that college students
were more alert if they massaged or tapped areas on the back of the
neck, the hands and legs -- areas that acupuncturists believe can
stimulate the release of endorphins."

Twilight (The Twilight Saga, Book 1)

Nah. I can't say that I enjoy reading or watching anything with vampires.

New Moon (The Twilight Saga, Book 2)

However, after reading Stephenie Meyer's The Twilight Saga: Twilight, New Moon, and Eclipse, I'm slightly convinced otherwise. I just so happened to really enjoy all 3 books and I'm looking forward to reading Meyer's fourth book in the series. Yes, I know there's a movie and future plans to write from Edward's (character) perspective. Actually if you want, you can read about all of that here: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/ . I don't think that I would have given this series a second thought, however, I've read excellent reviews in the School Library Journal http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com and elsewhere. I've

Eclipse (The Twilight Saga, Book 3)

also had a few students recommend the series. Even if you're not into this genre, you should check it out because Stephenie Meyer tells one great story.

I've spent the last 3 days weeding the yard... UUGHH. I actually enjoy weeding to an extent--not 3 days of it! The yard is almost weed free for now. Anyway, I hope that everyone had a nice Easter. Of course, I don't need to explain my Easter outing--as you already know what I've been doing. Let's see...The school I work at had spring break last week--my family, fiance, and I went to northern Michigan. Beautiful place as always. So...It's official. I'm getting married on June 24, 2008 in MI. =) We finalized plans over the break. I still have a few more arrangements to make. Other than that, I'm almost through with the planning part.

Pawwear

My Yorkshire Terrier is wondering if she can get a size XXS in either pink or red. =) The photo to the right came from an article about police dogs in Germany wearing new paw wear to protect their paw pads. Awww. Very cute.

I think this is a great idea. My Yorkie could enjoy her hot Texas summer walks for once (sidewalks get very hot--we have to stay in the grass). Anyway, It makes me happy to see others taking good care of their dogs. This pup looks pleased.

 http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080225/ap_on_fe_st/dog_shoes

Catch-22

Finally, I've gotten around to reading a book that has been on my "to read" list for who knows how long. As of now, I'm close to the middle of the book. For some reason I was under the impression that this book was a classic summer reading book for high school. As a librarian, I should know the answer to this, but I don't. I can understand if it's a classic, but not on school reading lists? Why? Because of inappropriate language and sexual references?

 Nowadays, it seems that school administrators are being careful to avoid books like this one. Personally, I think that high schoolers can handle the content, however, I'm sure someone out there can argue otherwise.    

Joseph Heller describes his characters individually, giving each their share of quirks. The latter is part of what makes this story humorous. So far, it's like Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughter-House Five meets the movie, Full Metal Jacket. I'll give further updates as I continue reading.

My mom and I had so much fun shopping for a wedding dress today. The day was very special and I'm really happy that I got to share it with my mom. So, yes, I found THE dress. Mission accomplished. It's beautiful. I'm getting married in June in Northern Michigan on a private beach. Anyway, I'd share a photo of the dress, but it's a secret for now. =)   

The Glass Castle: A Memoir

I'm now reading The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls. I saw this author speak about her work at the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy event here in Texas (http://www.barbarabushfoundation.com/). Jeannette Walls caught my attention when she read an excerpt from her book about her wearing "homemade" braces that she created as a teen because her family couldn't afford orthodontic work. Jeannette Walls's down-to-earth style of expression and insight captured my attention. Anyway, now I'm continuing her book and enjoying every chapter. She has an unforgettable story.     

This past week has been challenging in more than one way. Physically, I've been completely drained. I went to the doctor and was prescribed antibiotics. I can breathe through my nose again. Anyway, I've been keeping busy this weekend with reading, sleeping, and spending time with my fiance, dog, and bunny.

The Subtle Knife (His Dark Materials, Book 2)

I'm currently reading The Subtle Knife by Philip Pullman (sequel to The Golden Compass)

Into the Wild

and Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. Pullman's work is entertaining.

 From what I understand Into the Wild has been made into a film that is not yet released (I think). I was curious to see what the book was like. I'm about half way through and I'm finding it hard to stay interested in the story. The main character is interesting, but the author has added so many related, yet unrelated side stories describing others who have made poor decisions to venture into the Alaskan wild. I can do without the comparisons. At this rate, I don't know if I want to finish the book. There's so many other books I want to read. 

Yes, so I know once again it has been awhile since I've posted something of "real" substance. Well, here goes. Over the holiday (which now seems like forever ago) I read all of David Sedaris's works. I started with

Holidays on Ice: Stories

 Holidays on Ice and then Naked, so forth and so on....

Naked

Perhaps it was a bit compulsive on my end. Nah. I highly recommend the latter title listed..actually both titles. Before reading his stuff, I can't remember the last time I laughed out loud so much while reading. Anyway, Sedaris doesn't disappoint. Here's a little something from You Tube that I discovered earlier today.