Terry's on to something

As I read a review of Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at what You Do by Wallace J. Nichols, I thought of Terry on sabbatical this summer at her place on the water. While we greatly miss her presence at the store, I love that she stays true to herself and is the picture of peace and relaxation.

Nicola Joyce's review in the Washington Post highlighted aspects of Nichols' book that resonated with what I have long felt: "the sensory appeal of water, showing us how the sight, sound, feel, and even smell and taste of water affect us on an incredibly deep and raw level." "Nichols calls on neuroscience to explain the cognitive processes our minds go through in response to water, combining scientific language and examples with personal anecdotes and stories...It’s incredible to think that we can alter our brain’s positive neural pathways by increasing our exposure to happy experiences in, near or on water, but apparently it’s true."

Reading this review also reminded me that my decision to investigate opening a bookstore instead of continuing in consulting came while vacationing on Sanibel Island.

Perhaps I need to follow Terry's lead, head to the water, read and just be for a little while.

Still not enough...

time, money or book stands. A couple years ago, I said that you could never have enough money or book stands.  We're getting close on the book stands, so I will substitute in "time." I naively throught that after almost 4 years, things would have settled into more of a routine (probably more experienced book sellers are laughing right now).  Just as busy, just as broke as I was several years ago.  Busy with different things and many quite fun, but still feeling like there's never a break.

This is a year of decisions - the lease on our current location is up next year - as the Clash would say: should I stay or should I go?  Given that our rent will most likely increase, how much is too much? Could we start all over again somewhere else?  If you see me and I'm staring out into space, I could be thinking of these decisions or I might just be tired (either way, candy or a drink will bring me right back).

Things that go together

We really have a lot of fun when we see something and immediately think of a book to pair it with. We crack ourselves up over some of our combinations and then explain to others why they are so funny. Not sure if that makes us book nerds or just nerds.

Here are some of our latest combinations:

1) 

and Word Crimes by "Weird Al" Yankovic (listen - you'll love it).

2) Champion Killer Kolsch beer next to Lars Kepler or any of my Scandinavian thrillers favs (note the bloody hands shown on the beer can).

And finally 3)

Love the thoughtful use of taxidermed rodents. 

Not everyone appreciates this (almost) lost art form. 

(Terry and I came up with this one after last night's wine tasting)