A couple months ago, I was in Oregon. Every time I visit a new city, I try to bring something home that reminds me of that place. Not like a keychain or a shot glass, but something that feels like me…just from somewhere else. As I roamed the aisles of a book and craft store, I found this stamp and knew it was mine. I can't wait to stamp the inside covers of my books like the librarian I always dreamed of becoming.

Why, yes, I want to stake claim to books…oooh, before this post gets any longer and I intimidate you with my uber coolness, I'll get into my recent Good Reads…

*Gold by Chris Cleave. Now before you roll your eyes at the fact I'm bringing up the Olympics YET AGAIN (but, really, I can talk about my dream floor routine for hours), this book's plot is rooted in rivalry, pain, and the struggle of true friendship. And the 2012 Olympics in London. This is Cleave's newest book and after reading Little Bee, I'm pretty sure I'll read anything he writes. Including his grocery list. I adore the way he tells stories, colors my imagination, and forces me to think about my friendships in relation to truth. And competition. I really liked this book!

*The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty. I picked up this book on a recommendation and it was supposed to resemble the tonality and voice of The Paris Wife (which I loved and can read about here). It was an enjoyable read and something that's perfect for the beach, traveling, or a night to escape. I enjoyed the story, its progression, and transported me to a time when alcohol was established and knee-length skirts were considered improper. I love historical fiction, so this book was right up my alley, though it wasn't quite as strong as The Paris Wife.

**I read another book, but I really don't have anything nice to say about it…so I'll refrain from criticizing it. My mama said if I don't have anything nice to say, it's best to but my tongue. So that's what I'm doing.

*Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed. Oh, where do I begin with this book? Probably with a disclaimer: this book isn't for everyone and while I don't share the same sentiments as Strayed in many aspects, her writing and advice brought me to tears. Real, hot, streaming tears. This book is a compilation of Strayed's advice column Dear Sugar and seeing how I love advice columns, this was a gem. Beyond the beautiful writing and words that reach down in your gut and make you feel simultaneously free and weighted, I love that she made me see the world differently. From a new perspective, even if I may not agree. For this, I'm a stronger–and more thankful–person. Loved it. Truly.

Happy Wednesday!