Some random thoughts...

Weddings are soooo expensive, especially in New Jersey. That explains why young couples nowadays, if they are not already broke from college loans, become bankrupt a few years later when they decide to get married. And people wonder why the average amount of savings for a typical American is negative amount of money (which is a true fact!).

It is really good to realize that a person you thought was a casual friend is in reality a very good friend who is always there when you need them. In some ways, life is all about your friends (all right, maybe after books and food).

Do you realize that one month from today final exams will be over and I will be sliding happily towards summer vacation? While this has been a very nice school year with some very special students, the anticipation of sleeping later than 5:15am, making my own hours, being able to write and read to my heart’s content, make the approach of summer absolutely delightful! And yes, at this time of year all teachers envy the newest retirees, haha.

Currently reading: I just finished Jeffrey Ford’s absolutely brilliant novel The Shadow Year, an expansion of his equally-brilliant novella “Botch Town.” Life growing up in a small New Jersey town never seemed so nostalgic and creepy simultaneously.

Currently listening: I’m a big fan of progressive rock, including the “symphonic” type pioneered by Yes. Keys to Ascension is one of their finer albums, mostly life with a handful of new cuts. Just because most prog rock bands do not get radio airplay does not mean they are not among the finest groups in rock music.