Ayn Rand is one of my favorite authors. I would never have picked up Fountainhead or Atlas Shrugged had it not been at the persistence of a former colleague. Rand has a cult following, is frequently credited with launching the philosophy of objectivism and has received much criticism for her portrayal of selfishness as a virtue...but I have started to agree with her. Last night over wine, a friend and I held a lengthy discussion about the search for happiness and the accusations of selfishness that result when we put ourselves first.

This whole thing is so bizarre to me. It's like being in a bad dream and not being able to wake up. Palin was virtually unknown outside of Alaska just ONE week ago. Now, she's more popular than Obama or McCain. What does that say about the mindset of voters in this country. I've heard people express how much they love her, her kids, even her parents...who've only been shown on TV once at the RNC and have never uttered a word (as far as an interview goes) So what is it about her that has endeared her to so many people.

                  

Luke’s eyes light up in anticipation. ‘Go on, open it,’ he urges me. No, it isn't a ring box. It's a white envelope. Bless him, he thinks I’ve won. While I was away spending a few days in Paris with friends, a letter arrived from the organisers of a poetry competition I had entered.

I had the rare opportunity of taking three 14 year old girls shopping for back to school clothes and school supplies this year.  It was quite the experience.  One I don't recommend anyone braving without fireprotection around their wallet and a helmet.  The helmet is for the headbanging you will resort to while they make up their minds.