I read a lot. Sometimes two to three books a week for me, plus read-aloud books with the kids. The steady stream of review copies coming in to the office helps feed this need without costing me a fortune. Because of that, I read a lot of books that I wouldn't normally risk money buying, like those from authors I don't know anything about.

This book, Loose Girl by Kerry Cohen, is next on my list. Last week, Phoebe mentioned it on her blog, so I'm hoping I'll enjoy it as well.

Something I haven't been able to shake, though, is that it looked familiar. Then last night in the wee hours of the morning, as I was drifting off to sleep, something clicked deep in the recesses of my brain.



Look at this book here, Chasing Windmills by Catherine Ryan Hyde. It's a novel I'd read and enjoyed several months ago, then (I think) passed along to a co-worker because I can't find it on any of my bookcases.

Different publishers. Same stock art. Hmmm. I wonder if it was a major goof-up or if this kind of thing happens more than readers recognize. My guess is the latter.

A male sparrow



A female ruby-throated hummingbird

Tuesday night was my last Weight Watchers meeting, at least for a little while. My employer paid for one series (12 weekly meetings) per employee, so if I decide to continue going to meetings it will be on my own dime. I think I may try the online version to see what that's like.

Meanwhile, here's my results over the 12 weeks:

I started out at 216 pounds and ended up at 194 for a grand total of 22 pounds lost!

What's more, I learned a lot about portion control and addressed some of the reasons I overeat. I learned that a plan is imperative. I feel good, and I'm starting to fit back into jeans I haven't been able to wear in years.

I still have a ways to go. Ultimately, I'd like to get down to 175. My next goal is to break 190, though.

Stay tuned...