Coffee and Conversation

When I was in college, I had an English professor who told us he never reads a book without a pen and paper right next to him. I scoffed at the idea when I heard it and until a few weeks ago, continued to do so. I always read for the pleasure of it, (except college reading, I did take notes) and I thought stopping and writing thoughts, questions, etc. would take away from that somehow.  Since I started writing this blog, I have begun taking notes on the books I am reading with the help of a trusty little app. It doesn’t take away anything from my enjoyment, in fact it helps me gather my thoughts and remember a detail I may have otherwise forgotten. So Thank you Dr. O, you are still teaching me all these years later.

On that note, I also want to get a little sappy for a moment. I just want to say that this last month has been awesome. For those of you that know me, you know how important reading is to me; it’s like a religion. I have always felt I was meant to write and I always held myself back. I feel like I unleashed something wonderful the moment I sat down and wrote about The Winter Sea. For all of my self-doubt, there have always been those who believed in me and saw something in me that I couldn’t see and I just want to take a moment to thank some of you whose words have always stuck out, you mean the world to me.

My parents - for instilling in me at a young age the power of reading. For taking the time to read to me when I was young, and for supporting me through out EVERYTHING. I love you all.

Mom – I love talking to you about books and you are always my first reader. Thank you for everything.

Dad- You made me believe it is never too late to be what you want to be. You are an inspiration.

John – From counting pennies until now, you read what I write even if you haven’t read the book. Thank you for believing in me. I’m going to write something that will make you go to the bookstore one day.

Susie – You respect my books and for that you have access to my library. You have always been willing to listen to me and have been willing to try new books because I told you to read them.

Mom Mom – You bought me my first Nancy Drew book and that day a reader was born.  I love you and miss you every day.

Kelli – I will never forget when you told me when I die you are going to play Wind Beneath my Wings at my funeral. I understand the sentiment and I love you.

Tommy – I take credit for getting you to read books. It’s one of my proudest accomplishments.

Allison – If there is such a thing as a reading soul mate, you would be mine.  You are my favorite person to discuss books with and you will willingly read a book I recommend. Our stories will always hold a place of honor in my heart. One day you will get your wish.

Uncle Will – At my college graduation party you pulled me aside and told me I had a gift and not to waste it. I never forgot that and it meant (and still does) so much to me. I hope I am starting to live up to it. Also to you and Cioci – for sitting and listening to my first story re-capping freshman year – and laughing at the right places.

Uncle Kevin – You have always said I should be a teacher, that I have such a passion for reading, I could inspire others. You see something in me that I was too afraid to see in myself. I will never forget your belief in me.

And Megan – One day you will read a book, and love it. I hope I’m there to see it.

Please don’t feel hurt or angry if your name is not on this list. It wasn’t my intention and it doesn’t mean you are not special to me. If we have read the same book or had a discussion about books or you send me recommendations you are special to me.