I graded papers for a total of 13 HOURS within the past two days. And I will be grading more essays this week. Here's another lesson for first-year English teachers - space out your essays. Don't give one per week, otherwise you will be grading a LOT.

After I graded, I tried to do some retail therapy. Sigh. The purse I wanted was $200 out of my price limit. Maybe once my taxes come in. Or maybe not. I want to go back to NYC and I can use the money for a plane ticket.

I finished (finally) the first book of 2006 - Pat Conroy's "Lords of Discipline." Conroy uses the English language like Mozart used his piano. The book is beautifully written with characters that are so developed they seem real. He tugs at your heart, pulls the rug beneath you several times and ends on a note that just exudes sadness and solitude, yet resolute and determination at the same time. This is not a book for the light-hearted, nor dim intellects.

I am not quite sure what my next book will be. I am re-reading "A Separate Peace" for my English class, and I want to re-read my favorite book - "The Count of Monte Cristo." Wait. I know. One of my New Year's resolutions is to finish "War and Peace." By George, I will complete that monstrosity of a book.

Bring it on!

Cheers. Time for bed.