Nathaniel Philbrick

So, I made it to Powell's for the reading last night by Nathaniel Philbrick. A much different and smaller crowd showed up for this reading promoting the new non-fiction work "Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War." This event turned out to be more of a lecture with a side of reading and a very short q & a afterwards. Even so, his lecture gave a small glimpse of the book's main topic, the Pilgrims and King Phillip's War. I know relatively little about this time period in history so i'm looking forward to learning more. I am thoroughly convinced to get his latest adventure in American History. I've enjoyed his two previous books, "In the Heart of the Sea" and "Sea of Glory." Mr. Philbrick is a very intelligent and a delight to listen to. I wish I lived on Nantucket Island!

Dan Savage and Augusten Burroughs

This past week I was able to see Dan Savage, sex columnist of "Savage Love" and Augusten Burroughs, author of "Running With scissors." Saw Dan Savage at the Crystal Ballroom, basically a live version of Savage Love. It was amusing for the first hour or so, but he lagged on for over 2 hours. A bit much for me considering some of his commentary on current events was so forced and fake. We didn't want to hear it. Bring on the weird sex talk! Anyway, amusing but probably wouldn't go see him again.

As for Augusten Burroughs. Saw him at Powell's Books on Friday. Good crowd turned out to see this unusual memoirist. At first glance, he looks out of place to be the literary giant that he is, but upon hearing him speak set me straight. He was so eloquent in speech and manner that I was impressed, considering his background. Anyway, very enjoyable reading with an intelligent q & a afterwards. Good stuff is always to be found at Powell's!

Tonight, I may try and catch Nathaniel Philbrick promote his latest book "Mayflower".

Weigh-in Update

Last week Wednesday I finally hit the 30 pound mark! I've officially lost 30.2 pounds since starting Weight Watchers in October, 2005. Yes, I realize it's taken me a long time, but this weight loss is much healthier and I feel that I can keep the weight off this way!

Only 15 more pounds to go....

Summer concerts!

This summer is turning out to be one big concert! There are a ton of great bands coming through town thsi summer and Kevin and I plan on seeing quite a few of them. Here's a list of shows we're thinking of or are already planning on going to:

June 9 - Eagles of Death Metal
June 11 - Black Crows
June 21 - Counting Crows and Goo Goo Dolls
July 27 - Steely Dan
July 28 - Crosby, Still, Nash & Young
July 29 - Tom Petty with Trey Anastasio
August 30 - Def Leppard & Journey
September 2 - Dave Matthews Band - at the Gorge!

Should be a great summer!