Goodbye, Libra. Hello, Virgo.

So since 2011 started, the astrological birth signs have change as well. Now, I've always believed that I was perfect being a Libra. I was sensitive, ALWAYS crying, I always wore my heart on my sleeve. However, I didn't think I was at all "balanced".

Until I read about the Virgo's predictions for 2011:

Expect a year of surprises - especially where people are concerned. Friends you've known for years will suddenly start doing weird things. You'll also change quite a bit. Be prepared.

A year of glowing health awaits you. You've grown stronger, and you'll rarely be sick. But what are you going to do with all that energy? Your longtime customs and habits may now seem boring. Try some new activities. Return to school, take up a hobby, or take a vacation. Your friends will be thrilled about the sparkle in your eyes.

Socially, you're going to get out more this year. A friend could talk you into meeting some new people, and you'll definitely be grateful. The people you meet should be interesting, intelligent, and curious - and you might embrace some new ideas. You could talk with your companions for hours - and come away with your head spinning. Welcome to 2011

I'm going to pretend this is the ultimate fortune cookie after a Chinese Buffet. Virgo, I'm seriously counting on you this year.

not a New Years resolution.

My prediction for 2011: My high blood pressure will go down to normal.

Five books in seven days.

Because I'm a really big avid reader, but sometimes I'm too busy that I can't finish a book that's 300+ pages in 5 days, I'm dedicating one week to read five books.

1) The Elephant's Journey by Jose Saramago (sadly, I turned to the last chapter of the book and read the first sentence ON ACCIDENT. I spoiled the ending for myself...)

2) Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev

3) Nine Stories by JD Salinger

4) The Death of Ivan Ilyvich by Tolstoy

5) The Pearl by Steinbeck

After reading these five books in one week, I will be organizing a "John Steinbeck" month because I really, really want to read Grapes of Wrath among other books.

However, I have to go through the last 100 pages (actually, less) of On The Road, then read some Henry David Thoreau.

January 1st, 2011: New Years Day in Leavenworth, WA

Hello, Little Germany. I haven't seen you in a decade plus one year. Yes, I was fourteen since I went to Leavenworth.

Start of the trail...




Shops!




Dogwood.

Me next to a...pine tree? Please correct me if I'm wrong.

I also drove near the Skyline mountain where there was snow tubing, snow boarding, skiing, and cross country skiing going on. Can you guess what I'm going to try next? Cross country skiing!

Cross-country skier (with his adorable Schnauzer Mush! Fido!) at Leavenworth.