Sunday, March 7, 2010

I escaped...


to Barnes and Noble for a little while yesterday. I've always found that I belong amid racks of books and magazines.... As I wander along, I touch a few book covers and hold some volumes in my hands, reading the back and skimming through a few paragraphs before placing them back on the shelf. I admit that I do judge a book by its cover. I love the texture and the feel and the images that were chosen.

I always find myself in the same areas of the store.... I browse the tables where 75% off makes it hard to resist buying something new. I scan the titles in the education aisle hoping for something new and inspiring. I take a peek into religious books, memoirs, and children's picture books, never sure what will capture my attention.

As a child, I had my own library system and would let friends check out my books. Each book had a carefully crafted check-out card in the back, and an index box sat close by cradling the cards that awaited reunions. I imagined owning my own book store one day. I imagined a seating area with coffee and cocoa close by. I imagined tables and racks of books and magazines, storytime.... I imagined The Shop Around the Corner from "You've Got Mail." I imagined a smaller version of Barnes and Noble.

When I was growing up, there were no independently-owned bookstores in my town. There were no Barnes and Nobles or Books A Million. Trips to a neighboring K-Mart helped me build my library.

Just now as I peeked into the green plastic bag, I smiled.... Good reading is ahead, although I will probably have to save it for spring break. I bought Sue Monk Kidd's collaboration with her daughter, Traveling with Pomegranates. As a mother nearing the 50-year mark, with a daughter soon to be entering high school, I'm sure it will make me stop and reflect on and savor the time I have with my daughter before college and work and a new family sidle in. I also bought a CD set of The Chronicles of Narnia. I've looked at this marked-down version for six months probably and finally tucked the last set safely under my arm.... It's a "just in case" purchase.... You know the kind; you don't really need it now, but you might one day. And the new issue of Somerset Digital Studio. It definitely inspires me to play with pictures and create.

But now, before Pomegranates, Narnia, or digital design, I have papers to grade and lessons to plan for next week. But the promise of what's inside the green bag lingers in my mind, the whisper of a favorite melody.

16 comments:

McMGrad89 said...

OMG Roban, I have had the same dream. I want books and coffee. When I lived in Colorado Springs there was this awesome coffee shop. I want one just like that with a book store.

I have book I want to send to you. Email me your addy.

Annemarie

Jen said...

A Shop Around the Corner! Exactly! Geez, forget my childhood, I still think I'd love to do that.

Of course, my childhood dream never had a coffee shop...now it would be a must.

veterankindergartenteacher said...

Great post Roban. I have one of those wait til summer kind of purchases...sigh. I found it during this winter break. I think I bought it about three years ago...lol. The school year gets back into gear and then before you know it, you can forget all about that special treat you promised yourself on some down time.

My daughter is in college now and as a woman in her fifties already, I will tell you that I miss having my daughter at home. Enjoy every moment with yours now sweet lady.

Candace said...

I love those green bags so much too!

Cindy said...

Roban, I love your new header, beautiful. Last year I stumbled onto an old book store, it was very cool and antiqueish. I could have stayed in there for hours. Glad you enjoyed yourself. have fun at school...take care.

miruspeg said...

I agree, what gorgeous new header photos Roban.

Isn't it wonderful escaping and getting lost in a book shop.
I adore books too and the voluntary work I do for Lifeline each Monday is my second favourite day of the week. (Wednesday being Joseph day is still my favourite). We work all year round sorting donated books for the annual bookfair in July, we feel like pigs in mud!

You have written a delightful post as always. I love the way you use your tools called words.

I can't wait to meet you in real life too this summer. I have my ticket I just need to pack my bag.

Take care dear one.
Peggy xxxx

Caroline said...

Ohhh...the green bag is almost better than the little blue box...lol. What a lovely treat you have ahead. There is nothing like getting lost in a good book! Enjoy!

beth said...

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who runs away to barnes when I need some me time or peace....

lesapeamusings.blogspot said...

I have always dreamed that in my most ideal life, I would own a book cafe. Lots of great books and magazines on the shelves.

I would serve sumptuous soups, sandwiches and salads and desserts in a cozy setting,... sigh!

Now I'm off to my local second book store, you have definitely put me in the mood with this great post.

lesapeamusings.blogspot said...

Ohh , I forgot, I'm new to the blogging world, still figuring my way around. Wish me luck!!!!

Bye for now from your 39th follower.HeeHee!

Relyn Lawson said...

Now that is my favorite escape. And when times have really been tough - I get a Cheesecake Factory piece of cheesecake in the coffee shop.

Jason said...

I know the feeling! I'm at B&N or Borders at least once a week, and (I'm a little embarassed to admit this) I'm at the library every single day, sometimes twice. I've considered stopping that habit, but every time I get something AMAZING off the "free book cart" I know that it's worth the trip. :-P

Wendelyn DeMoss said...

Greetings my friend! For years I have had my Barnes and Noble membership card. I covet it as much as any. All of 2009 I had a resolution. To go the entire year without buying a book. I used the library and got books from interlibrary loans. The cost just 2.00 in postage. It was great, I think I even read more books. Lately I am back in my groove, diving into the selections at B&N and checking out new authors. I love books and I do love my coffee. I consider both a great date! :)

heather said...

Hope you're enjoying your summer!!

Wanted to let you know that I changed my blog address today. It's now

agoddessinprogress.blogspot.com

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Relyn Lawson said...

When I watched You've Got Mail for the first time I actually said outload, "Oh man! She's got my shop!" I know just what you mean.