In my nonfiction grad class, this week we are to read John Grogan’s Marley and Me. I was excited when I saw this book on the booklist because it’s one that I’ve wanted to read and it gave me a legitimate excuse to buy the hard cover and not wait for the paperbook version. I even started reading it before classes began.

This week I’ll be finishing it up and taking a few notes. Then, on Oct. 20, I will be driving to CMU to meet with John Grogan in person. He’ll be there for CMU’s Storytelling Festival. He’ll talk publically (it’s free) at 1 p.m. with a book signing afterwards. I, however, will get a semi-exclusive opportunity (by invitation for some students) to meet with him earlier in the day. What do I want to know? I’m not sure yet. Input is welcome.

Grogan’s semi-exclusive audience is mostly journalism students because of his background as a journalist. I’m looking forward to the talk.

There’s something else happening on Oct. 20 too. I have it on good authority that someone in my household is going to be a year older that day. It might be someone turning 11. That someone might have asked for several items for her birthday including a racing go-cart (as in to drive in competitive races), a dirt bike (despite having one), a four-wheeler, and a "family talk cell phone." Her latest request, after it was suggested those might not happen, was a birthday party for about six or so of her closer friends AND a $100 gift certificate to Target. Why Target, I don’t know. Or was it Meijers? I’m not sure anymore. I know it wasn’t Wally World. For those of you still wondering, the birthday girl will be Amanda Ann. I should be back in plenty of time to participate in the birthday activities.