Monday Mail and Musings

I love alliteration!

There are two Monday memes that I can participate in this week. First Mailbox Monday sponsored by Marcia at the Printed Page (yippee --- two weeks in a row!)

I actually received 3 books in the mail this week and all because of the generosity of this book blogging world. I actually won another book, so that means that I can participate again next week too. The 3 books that I received this week include:

• At the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jaime Ford (won at Red Lady's Reading Room)
• Maisie Dobb by Jacqueline Winspear (won at Lesa Book Critiques)
• A Gift from Brittany by Marjorie Price (author contact via Book Blogs)

I am very much looking forward to reading all of these --- probably sometime in July when school responsibilities will be over.

Today's Musing Monday asks:

How many bookstores do you frequent? Do you have a favourite? If so, which one and what makes it so?

Well, I think my family would label me a bookstore addict. I actually checked out the Independent Bookstore website before I left for Branson to see if there were any bookstores that I could visit on my route (unfortunately, the answer was no). The bookstore that is closest to me - and that I visit on a weekly (if not more) basis is Half Price Books. I absolutely LOVE that store. I like the fact that the books are somewhat organized, making it easy to find a particular book or to browse through a particular section. I like the fact that the clearance section is constantly updated and there are always "must have" bargains just waiting for me to take them off the shelf and offer them a good home. I like the fact that they offer a 10% discount to teachers on ALL purchases! I like the fact that this store allows me to indulge in my passion without breaking the bank. AND.....I like the fact that each Half Price bookstore is a reflection of the neighborhood in which it resides. There are actually 4 Half Price shops within a 45 minute driving radius - and each shop has its own distinct flavor. Ok -- enough description - I'm starting to hyperventilate :)

As a final note to these Monday ramblings, I urge you to check out My Friend Amy's blog today. She has a fabulous post regarding the blog "community" - and the comments made on this post are extremely thought provoking as well. All I wish to add here is that I am so very grateful to have found this wonderful, accepting group of people who happen to enjoy reading as much as I do. You have inspired me.