The Outer Banks of North Carolina

The Outer Banks are magical -- at least that is what I have always felt for the thirty-eight years I have been coming here. Through the years it has been the place I would go to sort out life's challenges and disappointments. A place to put things in perspective and figure out what to do or how to handle a particular situation. That is why, for now, I moved the saying at the end of my blog to the top right under the title. And through the years, even though I have seen unbelievable changes in the area, the ability to help me deal with life has not changed. Sitting on the beach looking out to the ocean can do wonders to clear my mind and prioritize what is important! That's why I am here this week and it didn't fail me this time, but provided me once again with a safe haven to get emotions out of the way so I could see things clearly and deal with the situation and move forward. Not winning the ALA Presidential election was a real disappointment but I am more disappointed for school libraries and youth services than I am for myself. But as the week has passed, I know I will not stop fighting for school libraries and having school and youth services librarians be an integral part of ALA. I have even been able to think through the debt I incurred and how I will pay it off in under two years! Might not be traveling much or buying anything other than necessities, but I can make it work. And when all is said and done, I enjoyed the experience, learned a lot, met many wonderful people that I hope will remain friends and had a lot of fun. Once again thank you for the opportunity and your kind words.