I'm enjoying Spring already. Jazzy and I have been going for walks after work, and we've been covering a lot of ground. Sometimes we make it down to the ocean, while other times we meander around the web of roads in the area. It really is a beautiful and diverse place - we walk by simple homes and then million-dollar homes and then farmland before finding the sand and surf. It's so nice to be outdoors again, and Jaz has been good on the leash. I've been trying to tire her out a little before we go by playing fetch with the frisbee or ball, in an effort to keep her from being in a hurry. It turns out that it's not necessary and not even really possible. She's content to walk at my pace once we get going, and when we get home the first thing she does is find something for me to throw. I know that I'm a bit tired after walking for an hour, but the wacky pup doesn't seem the least bit affected.

I read another classic book the other day. Actually, I re-read it. The first time I read Lord of the Flies had to be in sixth or seventh grade, which was quite a long time ago, needless to say. Surprisingly, I remembered quite a bit of it as soon as I started reading. All the major characters were instantly familiar to me, and it was interesting to compare the impressions I had of the characters from my childhood with how I perceive them now. As a child, I identified strongly with Ralph, thought Piggy to be weak and strongly disliked Jack for his bullying ways. I had no recollection of Ralph's weakness of mind, and conversely how Piggy's maturity and intellect would have been valuable to the group had they let him be so. If he was still alive, William Golding would be horrified to learn that I also thought of the television shows Lost and Survivor while reading the book. On Lost, the character Jack is basically (and ironically) a grown-up Ralph. Like the book, both shows highlight how irrational people can be, and how easily societal structures can break down.

A good night's sleep is priceless, as anyone who has ever had trouble sleeping knows all too well. That's why I'm excited by my recent discovery. I've found some pillows that have that perfect blend of softness and firmness. Not only that, but they are a tremendous bargain. The only thing I don't know yet is how durable they will be. Hopefully they will stand up to the occasional drooling without losing form. Since I've already purchased mine, plus a backup set, it's safe to let you in on my source. It's TJ Maxx, and the pillows are by Joseph Abboud (Down Alternative Pillow). They are only $15 per pillow in queen size ($17 for king), so I highly recommend you go out and pick yourself up a couple. After you've tried them and you're feeling well rested in the morning, you'll finally be glad that you read this blog. :-)