I love reading, so living close to a bookstore has been just as wonderful as living close to a park.

That said, I get most of my books from the library. But if you’ve ever received a greeting card from me, chances are it came from Carmichael’s — it’s the closest store with the best selection. I’ve joked that based on my purchases, the staff probably think I can’t (or don’t) read.

Fortunately, Gabe buys books regularly, and between his books and my greeting cards, we’re in Carmichael’s frequently enough that we’ve made friends with at least one of their employees.

I do occasionally buy books there, and I love living so close to a bookstore that I can walk out my door and have the third book in the Hunger Games series within 15 minutes of finishing the second book. I love that when my great-aunt gives me her annual chain-bookstore gift card, Carmichael’s lets me spend it with them.

Mainly, I love being able to spend time after dinner or a walk browsing Carmichael's selection. And now I feel guilty and think I should go show my love by buying some books — for someone else, since I’m moving.