Bibliosphere

 So, as of September 29, I have read 71 books in 2024. Twenty nine were in print, 42 audio. Five were in Spanish, the rest English. This year I've been learning that it's ok to put down a book you aren't enjoying, even if you never come back to it. I've put down a number of books this year, because I want to enjoy reading, and books that challenge me in a negative way are not a way to spend my down time.  The top books from August & September were (out of 16 finished during this time): The Teachers by Alexandra Robbins - This took me about 6 weeks to read due to... life stuff. But, it was well worth it and when things calmed down I finished it pretty quickly. Con el corazón abierto by Dalai Lama XIV - This one is important to me because it's the first book in Spanish that is for adults that I finished. Didn't understand all of it, but I did finish it. Owning Bipolar: How Patients and Families Can Take Control of Bipolar Disorder by Michael G. Pipich - I h

Though extravagant, I subscribed to a produce box this August. I was convinced at a farmer's market stall, and I was skeptical. But, in all honesty, picking out fun and funky veggies has been an amazing source of joy these past couple of months. I've received 3 boxes so far. All have had something delightful. I couldn't even tell you my favorite veggie or fruit I've tried. Candystripe figs were a treat for someone who really only eats dried figs. Delicata squash has been on my "to try" list for ages (thanks cooking shows).  I'm very excited for these next couple of weeks too! I'm trying a whole bunch of things: burdock root, brown beech mushrooms, and honeynut squash. I also have ordered some tiny white turnips, some very interesting looking kiwi berries, and a few other goodies.   

 From ACCO, did you know, 1 in 6 children diagnosed with cancer won't survive more than 5 years after diagnosis. When I was younger, it was 1 in 5, so at least we're going in the right direction. But 1 in 6 is still far too many.

The Sarcoma Alliance has shared a number of childhood cancer sarcoma facts this September already. Here are a couple that I think are especially worth noting.  

 The CureSearch walk was a good experience this year. I raised $250 from friends and family, and I did get a t-shirt (which, I may add, is pretty cute). The walk was smaller than what it was, but it was still a good showing. I always like seeing the nurses from the children's hospital there, showing their support. While the walk didn't raise as much as they wanted, I think it was still a good thing.

 Here we are, September again. September marks the first day of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Last year, I was able to post 2-3 times a week, the whole month. This year I won't be able to. I do want to make a goal of at least one post a week, so that I can continue spreading awareness about childhood cancer. I will make one last plug for my CureSearch Walk fundraising. I'm super excited to be back this year with my team, though it may be a small team.  Donate Here