What's home for you? (or: 93 Million Miles video)

It's just about that time of year where I get into my trusted little Honda Element (affectionately know as Kermit, as he's green and reliable) and hit the road for book launch related events. This stuff is fun and exciting. Around the South for this tour, there are new and old friends to meet, which is my favorite thing to do.

But it does make me think of home, and what that means. Because I won't be able to see a lot of friends--my cool pals in Colorado, for one, because there's a giant Texas to cross (it's big, y'all...). I'll miss seeing friends in Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle--you get the idea. The cool part about the nomad life and the internetz is how quickly you make friends all over, but it's hard to catch up with people in person. And I haven't even considered my many pals and family (!) across the border and pond.

This video made me think of home, and how you carry it with you, sort of. If I can get all philosophical here on your Monday...

How about you? Is there a home you miss, and/or friends you wish didn't live so far away?


 

Friday around the web: saying goodbye, library love, and Kermit with a banjo

This was a sad week in many ways. First, there was the loss of Lee Thompson Young, actor on Rizzoli & Isles. Man, that show won't be the same without him...

Then there was the passing of Elmore Leonard. I could write a dozen posts on how he's influenced my writing, but I'll only be repeating what's been said by others. He'll be missed tremendously.

It's odd when someone you never knew personally, but impacted you anyway, dies. To add to the sadness: I just heard that a young writer friend passed away--we'll miss you, Amy.

It put a dark stamp on the week for sure. All best to the families, who'll be feeling this loss and such a deeper level...

On a happier note: there was this great article on what kids think the world would be like without libraries.
And in case you're a cheapskate like me: 28 ways a library can save you money.

To end the week with a smile, here's Steve Martin and Kermit, playing some banjo.

Banjo music makes everything a little better. And Kermit, too.

Have a bright, happy weekend, all.

Sending All Best To East Coast Friends...

I'm sure I'm not alone in feeling a little helpless as I watch the images of devastation from the East Coast. I wish I could send food, power, and a cleanup crew...

But aside from donations, I'll send some Kermit and Cookie Monster, because they always cheer me up. Hang in there, and may the recovery be swift...