Hi all!

I am excited!

Why?

Because I get to be part of Independent Bookstore Day!

I have loved books for a very long time. I love everything about them! How they look, how they feel, how they smell... yes, although that may seem weird to some, I love the smell of a new book when you first open it and turn the pages... it's inviting and soothing all at the same time!

When I was a young Mom we would read every night with our kids. It was a standard ritual... pick out the books, cuddle, share stories, and stories... until finally... it was time for bed. And as all of you parents of young children know, that ritual can go on for hours... if you let it... :)

But, reading aloud, and reading to or with your kids can go on for many years, and be a shared joy and coveted time of each day. When our son was growing up, we began reading the Harry Potter series together.... he was just 9 or 10 when the first books came out. I used to have the joy of an Independent Bookstore in our little town. It was called "Crocodile Pie" and the owner was an amazing buyer and lover of great literature for children of all ages. She was the first one to introduce my to, and to share the joy of J.K. Rowling's genius. Now, all these years later, Bill and I still talk about those evenings reading in bed, and not wanting to put the books down!

Reading and Bookstores go together in such a perfect way. I know kids can get a lot of books and content online, but to me, and I am passionate about this, there is nothing like the real thing. A book... it will never lose power, and you can take it with you anywhere! AND.... if you travel, no one will ask you to turn it off on take off or landing... maybe they don't do that anymore... but I never used ebooks anyway!

This Saturday, April 28th, is Independent Bookstore Day across the country. I am heartened and gloriously happy that it seems this type of store is thriving again, and finding it's place in towns and neighborhoods throughout the country.

So, if you love books, if your kids love books ( and I hope they do!) find an Independent Bookstore near you this Saturday and go in, grab some books, hang out, read some stories, and immerse yourself and your kids for the day!

You never know where a good book will take you!

Happy Reading,

Pam