I'm in Charlotte, North Carolina, a beautiful city of Southern charm. I arrived on Sunday with almost an entire day free, so I boosted the local economy with an excursion to the shopping mall and a movie. In case you're curious, I saw "Knocked Up," a great movie, except for the language.

The Barnes & Noble on-line book club with BACK ON BLOSSOM STREET started Monday, so every spare minute I have my nose is pressed against the computer screen, chatting with book club friends. I'm proud to say this is the third year in a row I've done the book club. Come and join the fun!

Wednesday morning I leave bright and early for Sacramento, California. I'm excited I'll be back in the same time zone as home.