The Library Kicks Butt !

I love reading articles about stupid library users. When you check out books from the library (school, public, academic, etc.), the agreement is that you will return them in a timely manner. If you don't there are consequences for your lack of responsibility. I find it interesting that some individuals think a public library serves as their own personal Amazon.com account. Where does that mentality come from? Just take the damn books back and pay the meagre fine!

The End of Summer

Finally, the summer draws to a close. I am back on the school clock as of this Thursday and back in the classroom the following week. It has been a seemingly-endless year filled with anxiety, positive and negative occupational experiences, personal growth, and deep reflection. What words best describe my mindset? Excited, slightly apprehensive, relieved, curious, . . . happy.

Vampire Reading

I just finished the fourth book in the Stephenie Meyer vampire series. The first book (Twilight) had me intrigued by all the hype. The second (New Moon) had me hooked. The third (Eclipse) made me angry because two of the male characters were rather abusive in my eyes. The fourth has me hungry for more. The problems I had with the third book were resolved in the fourth by character development (maturation). Plus, Meyer shifted her narrative voice in the fourth which allowed more of a sympathetic attachment to one of the players. I just couldn't put it down and fought with the urge to read the last chapter right away to know the resolution. In the wee hours of the morning, I was not disappointed by the closure. There's plenty of room for more. The book also presented interesting twists on vampire mythology, genetics, power structures, and conflict resolution. I hope Meyer is sitting at her computer 24/7.

Vacation Time

Finally....three weeks off until school begins. My book pile awaits. The girls are hoping the blue-green algae alert at the dog park is gone. We'll all be spending much of our time like the little guy in this picture.