Lazy Luxury

It is finally Saturday morning. I'm propped up in bed by several pillows, have a hot cup of coffee, and an incredibly cute doggie laying on my feet. The only thing missing is my husband, and he woke up entirely too early to help his sister and her boyfriend move into an apartment. If I had been able to drag myself out of bed, I would have been helping as well. Instead, I am having a morning of lazy luxury.

I like my idea better.

In 2012, I have read 10 books. The extended winter break (my class doesn't really begin until we leave for Italy) has been a huge help with the reading goal since I haven't had to read any textbooks or do any homework yet.

While I'm well on my way to reaching my goal of 75 books in one year - I haven't tackled the more specific reading goals. Until today.

I have always had a huge level or admiration and respect for Nelson Mandela. His character and lifetime achievements are beyond words. I've written a few papers about him, both in undergraduate and graduate courses, but I've only read excerpts of his autobiography and memoir. This makes Mandela the perfect choice to complete the item on my list that requires me to read an autobiography. The book I've started reading is titled Conversations with Myself.

Conversations with Myself is a collection of personal documents of

Mandela's, which mostly includes letters written to friends and family while in person, his personal journal, and portions of an unpublished sequel to his autobiography.

I've only started reading, but it's quite obvious from the start the Nelson Mandela is a remarkable man. Even in his private communications, he maintains such a level of morality and character it is truly amazing. At 93 years old, he is lived a more fulfilling life than most people can even imagine.

You know the question - if you could meet any famous person, dead or alive, who would you meet? I would meet Nelson Mandela.

Stay tuned - more items on the list will be completed very soon!