To find your perfect novel, see page 69
The Guardian tests the theory that if you want to quickly find out if a book is worth your time, read the 69th page. If you like what’s on that page, then you will like the book. My tactic is to give a book 2 chapters to entice me - if I’m not into it after that many pages, I put it down. I also employ a similar strategy for movies: after 30 minutes, if I’m bored, I stop watching. Because life is too short to waste it on dreck.
Surfing: NY Times Frugal Traveler blog.The Frugal Traveler is taking the grand tour of Europe on a budget. He’s off to Lithuania next.
Considering: Macbook Pro. Since I am taking classes, I am technically a college student and can get a discount.
Lusting After: Vespa. I would look so cool zipping around my neighborhood on one of these babies. It’s completely unnecessary (I walk most places and already have a car), but the heart wants what it wants.
Buying: German books. I’ve signed up for 2 classes in the fall - one a continuation of my summer class that focuses on writing and reading comprehension, the other a mostly speaking course. I need 2 books per class, and has able to find them all used and for much less money on amazon and half.com.
Hi!
Long time no see. Things are OK around here. Lots of changes are afoot — new job, visitors at the house, and as of today, a new apartment (OK, the apartment is not available for another few weeks, but it is definitely mine).
I don’t know about you, but so far 2008 has brought a lot of introspection and self-reflection for me. Trying to figure out how I got here and where I want to go next. My life isn’t bad, but I think there is room for improvement, both inside and out.
So I’m downsizing to a smaller and (much) cheaper apartment which is within walking distance of my job. I’m also going to do what I should have done in college and finally learn German (I took 2 semesters and dropped it because I had no foresight that knowing more than one language might be an asset). I plan on giving more attention to my creative side and also to my dog.
My goal is to come out on the other side of 2008 with a better outlook, or at least more peace of mind that I’m living my life to the fullest — and that’s really all I could ask for.
The weather outside is icy and gray. I’m not moving from the couch today.
Valentine’s Day (or as my sister named it, VD) holds no special meaning for me. I hope that we all spread love (and not VD) every day of the year, and don’t need the candy and card companies to tell us how to do it. So to everyone out there, have a happy Valentine’s Day, Saint-Valentin, Valentinstag, Día de los Enamorados, etc.
And to all the men I saw on Tuesday at the mall with large pink Victoria’s Secret shopping bags - um, maybe you should rethink that before you hand it to the Mrs.
Surprise - the dollar sucks now more than ever. I’d like my next paycheck in euros, please.