Today Was My Lucky Day

.....at least at the library! There are 1,001 reasons why I love Portland and the Multnomah County (Portland) Library is just one of them. Not only does the library offer reciprocity for the residents of SW Washington (yes, they let books cross state lines!) but they also have a wonderful program called "It's Your Lucky Day". Here's how it works: the library has a collection of books, both fiction and non-fiction, that are available two at a time for three weeks. These books are not available for a hold and they are not renewable. So, if you happen to be in the library and see that bestseller you've been eyeing at the bookstore it's yours for three weeks!

This is particularly timely since I've decided to hold off on any book purchases indefinitely. This is less of an economic decision than it is a matter of self restraint. Our book collection has grown by about 100 over the last couple of years (thanks to Border's weekly 30% coupon) and we are out of bookshelf space.There are books in every room of the house and I fell somewhat overwhelmed by all the titles I still have to read. Not to mention all the meals I have to cook!

My cookbook collection now stands at 76. I love food and I love to cook even more, but I don't think I could make all those meals in a lifetime! So, I'm weeding my collection. Besides, eating at home instead of driving 20 miles (there and back) to go out to dinner is a simpler way of life. Of course, there are some cookbooks that are definitely staying: my first edition of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, the autographed Cupcakes by M. Stewart, the Ina Garten cookbooks, and my current favorite America's Test Kitchen Family Cookbook (the best all-inclusive!) But, Meals for a Month? Even though it has an excellent recipe for fish tacos, we are still only two people (for now, anyway!) So, I've decided to make at least three recipes from a book before I decide if it stays or goes. I'll keep you posted! As for my "lucky day" pick today? Another cookbook - Maya Angelou's Great Food All Day Long. Go figure! At least this one will be out of the house in three weeks!