More about Fall-Break

Jake and I recently "celebrated" our annual two weeks off of school in October, Fall-break. We basically took it easy for the 2-weeks cheering for the Diamondbacks, going to football practice, sleeping in every morning and relaxing around the house. We decided not to go anywhere for our vacation because Jake still had practice and games; he enjoys football so much that he didn't want to miss any of the 8-week season.

We did get to go to the Wildlife World Zoo. This zoo seems like it is on the other side of the world from where we live, but it is actually on the other side of Phoenix, about 70 miles from our house. We didn't mind the drive! We were off of school! Yoohoo!
This zoo is a lot of fun. It is flat and open, with about as many animals (if not more) than the Phoenix Zoo.

It isn't as polished as the Phoenix Zoo and the animals are not in as natural and scenic habitats, but they are closer to you and it is much less crowded! It almost seemed like we were there by ourselves. It will be fun to go back sometime.

After the zoo we had lunch in Gilbert at Joes Farm Grill. It was yummy!

We had some other things going on during our break. Nova (Jake's G-mom) went on a trip to New York City and had a fabulous time. Dan (Jake's Grandpa) participated in the Chicago Marathon. He was on mile 16 when they cancelled the race due to heat. He is fine and had a great time.

Nova took Jake to Tuscon for an overnighter with Jake's best friend Conner and his Grandma Sherry. They had a jam-packed stay and did lots of fun stuff.

I had a great time watching the Diamondbacks make it to the NLCS and then get swept, but it was fun. The Cardianls are not eliminated from the playoffs yet (as of week 6) they are actually in 1st place; so I've been watching them with reserved excitement. And the Suns begin their NBA Championship season on Novemebr 1st against Seattle. So I'm very excited.

We are both back at school now as of yesterday; so far, so good.

First attempt at a book review

During my fall break I read Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Let me just say "I loved this book". I am not generally a fan of autobiographical, memoir type books but I found this to be very enjoyable.

Why did I like it so much? I think because the author has such a real way of writing. What I mean is, she writes what is going on in her head in a very intelligent, fun and likable way. I shared her journey and felt like I belonged with her, beside her every step of the way.

This is a story full of life and hope.

I am reading Oprah's next book club selection next, Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I will let you know what I think.

-Stacey