Playlist

I recently made the decision to start working out. I have made this decision many times. Here's hoping this one sticks!

I decided I was in need of an amazing playlist, something to keep me motivated. It has been aptly titled "Motivate", of course. I like to imagine Jillian Michaels yelling at me.

Although I have yet to hit the gym, I decided to take the playlist for a spin while riding my stationary bike.

It worked.

And although I was exhausted and my boy howdy was kinda sore, I felt good overall.

What is it about music that can make or break a workout? Mine is full of powerful women screaming. Horns are involved, of course, as are fast-paced rhythms. It ranges from Country (Dixie Chicks) to punk cabaret (Dresden Dolls) to ska (Dance Hall Crashers) and of course, I threw in a little Guns n' Roses for good measure.

Here's hoping I have found the right playlist recipe to keep me going.

Snow

Our house looks beautiful covered in snow.



The neighborhood has been transformed!




- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Rememberall

(No, this is not a post about a certain beloved wizard. It is about books and remembering and remembering books.)

I have read many books in my life. Some were assigned, and some were for leisure. I have always been a bookworm. Recently, I read a book called, How to Talk About Books You Haven't Read by Pierre Bayard. In this book, Bayard describes various levels of reading which may result in a person having read a book and not actually remembering anything about said book.

This got me thinking. Could I have an intellectual discussion about any of the books I have read? I can't even remember who wrote The Scarlet Letter so a discussion on that one is out. Was Pride and Prejudice the one about the sisters and the weddings? Yeah? That's all I got. I have read these books. Really, I have.

How is that I can't remember something I spent so much time with? How will I ever successfully read classic novels and actually remember them? Can I be a good English major when I can't even remember the basic plot of The Great Gatsby? Or does everyone forget these classics and just pretend to have read and enjoy them?

Is it worse to have read and forgotten these books than to have never read them at all?

Mortal Syntax

As an English major I am expected to speak correctly at all times, write correctly at all times, and to know all things grammar-related. (I am also expected to have read every book known to man, but that is another topic). I am the worst grammarian primarily because it interests me. I read into everything and confuse myself. I enjoy trying to learn, but the end, I am dumber than when first started. The search for someone or something that can guide me down the rocky path that is understanding the English language is important. Thankfully, I stumbled upon this book.

Mortal Syntax by June Casagrande, (author of Grammar Snobs are Great Big Meanies) has been my recent pre-sleep reading. The book is simple and clear and funny. She describes why certain things are wrong, but more importantly, when it's okay to break the rules. I have actually learned a few things. Also, a few things have been clarified for me (subjunctive tense).

I suggest this book for anyone interested in learning a little about grammar or for anyone who needs a refresher course. The book is also a great tool with which to arm yourself. Inevitably, some jerk will decide to confront you about your imperfect grammar. He will have no idea you are ready to clobber him with wit and knowledge. This book will prepare you for just such a battle.

Amazing Horse