At least one hand is always on the book (and in this configuration more likely to be two) so I'm just not getting wet often.

I mean, I can't see how I could get hands wet without already having gotten the book wet, and once I'm holding the book that's all the reminder I need--if it gets wet it's because I fumbled.

My idea of a short drive is ... not an hour. But the lake is gorgeous. I spent a day there once, a few years ago.

I grew up having to drive 45 minutes to the nearest movie theatre, and sometimes 30 minutes within the same school district to get to a friend's house, so no big deal to me. I actually think that might be why I am so patient with my busride, which turns a 20 minute drive into at least an hour and a half.

HR-knowledgeable folks: Do I inform my boss or HR first about my new job? I could give the heads up to HR this afternoon and tell my boss on Monday morning.

Sorry to be so dumb about this. Every time I've left previous jobs, it's been with the full knowledge of my current employer because of a layoff or program termination.

Haven't tried it with the Kindle yet, though.

Ziploc baggie. Or 2.

While I'm a voracious reader, I love books because of what's in them. I appreciate a lovely first edition or illustrated manuscript, but...I treat my books fairly roughly.

Maria, I think it just depends on your relationship with your boss. Either way, you should have a formal letter of resignation that you hand over at that time.

HR will not hold back the info from your boss. Or at least I would be shocked if they did.

HR manager and I are friends, who knows I've been looking. We go out for sangria. Boss and me? Eh. Cordial, but I find him a little slimy and unwilling to stick up for his employees.

Big!Boss? What-the-fuck-ever.

Oh, in that case it might be different.

Then offer your letter to the HR person today, formal notice to boss on Monday. Get the righteous fuck outta there.