Quick Read

You know the book I'm about to write about - it is everywhere.  Everyone is reading it, people are writing articles about it, it is all the buzz.  I had a networking lunch the other day with other professionals in the area, and it came up there.  Friends text me and send me notes about the book.  I had my virtual book club discuss it.  Yes, I am writing about 50 Shades of Grey.

It is funny how everyone I know who reads the book gets something different out of it.  It is like a train wreck that no one can put down once they start it, even though the writing is mediocre at best (sorry E.L. James - I still loved them all).  Many people get the guilty pleasure of reading an erotic novel (which most people have never actually read).  Beyond that, though, there are other messages in the books (particularly if you read book 2 and 3, which have a much more fleshed out story to them).

One friend of mine read them and really felt that the entrepreneurial spirit of Christian appealed to her, and she is thinking of starting her own business (which hopefully will be as successful as Grey Enterprises Holdings Inc. is in the book).  Another one pointed out that at its root, these books are the evolution of two people and their relationship (which makes sense to me).  Others (particularly my fellow singletons) got hope that they may find the man who can easily buy them Christian Louboutin's.  

So, what did you get from it (because you know you read it...)?   

40 Years of Wedded Bliss

My parents are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary this year.  Their love, friendship and support is evident in everything they do - from holding hands, to making sure to kiss each other good night each and every night.  I think the fact that I am still single helps me appreciate their love and joy that much more.  

The kids (i.e. my sister, brother, their spouses, and me) put together a party for them this past weekend. It poured the night before the party, and the day started out rainy, which made me a bit nervous and neurotic (particularly because so many people wanted to join us).  By noon, the skies cleared and it was a gorgeous day.  The rain actually kept the bugs away for the afternoon.  Turns out, this is exactly what happened on their wedding day.  There are some angels up above blessing their marriage!

As we were putting together the guest list and reaching out to their friends and family, it became so evident that my parents are loved by those around them.  Everyone wanted to join in the party, brought a dish to share, and had a good time.  Those that couldn't come sent heartfelt notes about how much my parents mean to them.  As their children, we know they are amazing people, and it is amazing to know that everyone else sees this as well.  

It's no surprise, though, that they are so well respected.  Both of my parents are retired but work harder than most people with a full time job.  They volunteer their time at a variety of organizations, and they always follow through on their word.  

I hope I make the kind of impression on people that my parents do, and I hope some day I will be celebrating a special anniversary with a special person, still holding hands.  

Love you mom and dad!!!  (and for those of you who are wondering, I wore flip-flops)