u/foamy_histiocyte

Because I have a parasocial relationship with the omnipotent voice of the downtown parking garage kiosks (RIP) and also have no commitment issues when it comes to bits, I have created stickers memorializing this fallen Charlottesville icon, with art done by one of my friends and fellow Cvillian. Cat for scale in second picture (sticker is ~4 inches tall). This whole schtick was based on an idea from this thread. Likewise, I would like to follow another suggestion from that thread and collect donations for the Haven.

In compliance with this sub's rules, I want to be clear that I am not selling these. I am simply giving them out and also collecting donations for the Haven at the same time; completely unrelated efforts. I will post donation receipts and make absolutely no profit from this venture.

I'm moving away from Charlottesville after a lovely 8 years, and there was no better way to honor this city than doing something really goofy. Hope y'all like it too.

If you want one, I'll be hanging out on the covered walkways by the Water St Parking Garage car entrance on Saturday 5/23 and 5/30 (if supplies last) from 9-11am. I'll be the one with a bag of stickers -- you can't miss me!

Having a really lovely reading year so far, especially after a lackluster 2025. Excited to have been able to read a lot of new releases (8 of 29) as well!

Standouts are those in the top 2 categories. Stepped out of my comfort zone with "The Everlasting," "The Tainted Cup," and "Nonesuch" since all three have either fantasy or sci-fi elements or both, and I'm so glad I did because they were excellent. Meanwhile, "The Bright Years" and "Almost Life" seem to have been specifically designed for me in a lab -- character-driven stories spanning a lifetime.

Very few lows, and I didn't specifically note this, but "It's Different This Time" was a rare DNF for me (tried to read it on Valentine's Day and was just so upset I had to switch to another and ended up loving "Next Level Love").

Looking forward to so many more, especially: "Cherry Baby" by Rainbow Rowell & "Exit Party" by Emily St. John Mandel

What have been your hits, misses, most-looking-forward-tos?