January Lists

It is January and instead of making resolutions, I make lists. First I carry and update my lists from 2009 to 2010 files. Always when I do that, I find new lists must be made. One of the new lists is the Books on CD that I’ve read, well, listened to anyway. I first started keeping a list of the books I’ve read in my book discussion groups back in 1999 when the group met in my shop. The books reviewed for my Register-News column have always been kept on a separate list. That’s good for looking back and checking so I don’t review the same ones.

But this year for the first time since I have bought my first computer in the early 90s I am making a list of all the email addresses in my phone book. I’m trimming my sails, cutting out that $11.99 monthly AOL bill that I pay to keep my same email address even though my telephone service is Embarq. I hate to do this. It’s almost a feeling of disloyalty running through my system. And what if someone from way back when wants to contact me and I no longer answer to their email? Will they know how to get in touch? What horrors will I have to face with this change of address? Is this a life-changing thing that I plan to do?

Decisions, decisions are heavy weights indeed.

Books on CD

I’ve reawakened my idea of listening to books on CD. It was great to listen to a story as I was trekking to New Jersey for a long weekend. I arrived without a trace of being tired and without realizing how much time had passed. But when I returned home, I placed the idea in a drawer somewhere to be used for my next long-distance travel.

A few weeks ago as I prepared for an hour fifteen minute drive to Raleigh-not considered long distance now that I live in NC -the idea of books on CD popped into my head. I stopped at the library on the way and restored a good habit.

I took note that whenever I get into my car I’m driving at least 20 minutes and usually longer. That's enough time to get back into the story easily. Now, if I can find some of my favorite authors.........