New Habits

After Em posted a link to my blog from her website, I decided I should probably update. My dad and I were reflecting over Thanksgiving that neither he nor I particularly feel some great need for self expression, but when I think about how much I enjoy reading his "update" emails, I acquiesce.

Since moving to Norfolk, I have developed a few new habits which I am somewhat proud of and somewhat surprised by. I'm not sure how it all happened, it's probably a combination of factors.

1. Making the bed every morning. I think this started when Rich mentioned to me that he isn't able to feel relaxed until the bed is made. And since I've been keepign my house mostly clean, making the bed just seems to make sense. And, for those of you who really enjoy sleeping and saving time and all that, I'll have you know that it only takes 1 minute on average. I've timed myself.

2. Flossing. I have never consistently flossed in my whole life. This is the most recently acquired habit, by the way. I'm not sure what came over me, but the idea just seemed very logical recently. Most likely my mom's recent experiences had no small part. She has to have a tooth removed because of -------- problems, caused by not flossing. You can see how knowledgeable I am in this area. :)

3. Reading. I saved this for last because this is the most exciting new habit. Why did the idea suddenly pop into your head to buy classic literature form the local bookstore? Well, Alex, I honestly don't have an answer for that question. It just did! I started off with East of Eden, which I absolutely loved! Now I am reading The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James. If you have never read Henry James, I really recommend it. It's slow reading, partly because his sentences are just so long and involved, but it's very rich.

Since I'm sure you're interested, I will give you my impression of Henry James' writing (not a quote, just me writing like HJ):

"As I entered my office this morning, I found it to be in its usual state: papers scattered in such disarray that one might wonder as to how I actually do accomplish my tasks during the duration of each day set aside particularly for working. Now, given my current beliefs on the matters of personal organization and orderliness and all things related to individuality, I do not find it necessary to convey to the reader the reasons pertaining to my characteristic style of laying my necessary documents. The only thing one might need to perceive is that I, as the owner of my office and my personal, and dearly beloved, space, have a very proprietary outlook toward my belongings - even those belongings which could rightly be said to belong to my employer - and would be in an utter outrage should I be required to organize them in a fashion not truly unique to me personally."

There you go. I really do love Thursdays. And Jesus.