I thought I was a book snob..

          I somehow convinced myself that I was a "book snob".  Over the years I developed a habit of reading books and series of books by particular authors.  I would rarely sway from that approach unless a friend recommended the book or I had just heard so much about it that I had to see what the fuss was all about.  

Well last Spring Break as I made my last minute Target run for travel sized toiletries and whatever else I thought was worthy of tossing in my card..I happened upon an end cap with a few clearance books.  They were probably purchased online and then returned to the store, because they were marked down under $3 each.  I get uber happy when I can buy books dirt cheap even if I don't plan to read them anytime soon.  I've always been a book hoarder and I'm proud to admit it..(insert shoulder shrug).  

I ended up reading one of the books a few months back and got enrolled in a book club because I mailed in this postcard for some free books.  I'm laughing inside because I should really start reading the fine print. Before I knew it I had read and loved the book and signed up for that darn book club and got 5 more books in the mail.  That book was a Harlequin Romance novel.  

I still haven't read all books that were sent to me.  I have since paid whatever I owe that book club..I don't like a regular memberships because I am such a random reader and I love the library.  But after reading a few of Susan Mallery's books, I am no longer one of those people who says oh I don't like those gushy Harlequin Romance books..because obviously I now do.  I had the notion that I couldn't relate to those books as an African American reader because I have a picture of Fabio on the covers imprinted on my brain..but I can.  (and for those who don't know who Fabio is..Google him..I'm an 80's baby). I will remove my snob hat for now.  I've even gone to my local college library looking for more of Susan's books.  But honestly, the writing was great.  The characters were cute and likable and who doesn't love love? 

Are you having a hard time focusing on your short-term goals?

          If you are having a hard time focusing on your short term goals it may be that your life is full of clutter.  You can't properly function when you have lots of little things that are in your way. These little things left unhandled can become big things over time.  Before hibernation time settles in. Lets get going!

It's fall...for me that involves a lot of soup cooking, television watching and nap wanting.  This time of year can quickly derail any short-term goals you have planned for yourself.  I mean lets be realistic here..who doesn't want to curl up with a warm cup of coffee and a good book? I see your virtual hands up. 

Don't fall into the trap.  Wake up each morning and jot down your goals on a note pad (five of them is a good number).  Each day, plan to knock out at least three of those things.  Whatever item/goal that you don't complete rolls over to the next day.  Before you know it, a week has gone by and you are well on your way to a more organized and accomplished you.  These things can be business, life organization or home project related that you have been delaying.

I give this advice as well as I am practicing it myself.  I realize that I receive way too many emails.  I am beginning to unsubscribe from emails that I skim over on a daily.  Also, I've begun deleting ancient emails..Just today I am all the way back to unread or junk emails from 2012.  Knowing better is doing better.  Don't put it off-start today!!

Next up is de-cluttering my papers..I'm on my way to some guilt-free coffee and FICTION!!