a new favorite read.

a few things you may not know about me.

• i love to read and am a total bookworm.
• i am very fascinated by russian culture and love reading about or watching movies that have to do with russia or russians.
• my favorite books are all told from the perspective of kids.

so imagine how happy i was to receive this book for my birthday from my awesome sister in law.

it's vaclav & lena by haley tanner, and it's amazing.  it's the story of two childhood best friends who both emigrated from russia and settled in brighton beach, brooklyn.  they are separated when they are ten, and they never forget one another.  it's a heartwarming tale so far - i'm about halfway through - and i'm totally addicted to the characters [especially the little boy - vaclav]. 

i've shared some of my favorite reads and types of books before, and just had to add this one to the list.  it's not over yet, but i have a feeling i'm going to love it.

on a separate note, i want to say a big fat HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the best mother in law a gal could ask for!  this woman knows how to laugh, love and show her strong side more than just about any other woman i know.  what an inspiration and an absolute joy to be around she is.  happy birthday mom!

a beautiful woman with a contagious laugh.

i get to spend the rest of my day running my brother to pre-op appointments and food shopping... so til next time!