“No!” I exclaimed. Maddie looked up at me and started to giggle. She then proceeded to poke her finger back into the wall outlet. Apparently, it’s time to “baby proof” the loft.

I haven’t had much free time lately but this weekend I was able to knock out one of the books on my reading list: World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War.

Written by Max Brooks, who also authored The Zombie Survival Guide, it tells the story of a [world wide zombie apocalypse] via a collection of short, first person interviews recorded by survivors 10 years after the initial outbreak of a deadly virus. The virus is transmitted via bodily fluids (100% contagious) and not only kills the host but re-animates the body turning them into flesh-eating predators. Mr. Brooks gives keen insight on possible global reactions to a deadly pandemic that threatens humanity with extinction.

It’s a fast read and rather entertaining.

I came across [The Pulse] while browsing [the Backpacker Magazine web site]. It’s a good read and I highly recommend it for people who spend time outdoors on a regular basis.

Steve Howe is their Rocky Mountain Editor and has a life-time of experience with alpine climbing and hiking. He reports and comments on Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts that occur each year across the full spectrum of out-door recreation. It gives you a hard look at what can happen (this is life or death) when you step into the wild unprepared or under-geared for the environment you’re in. It also sends a sobering message that no matter how skilled or prepared you are for a specific activity, Mother Nature can turn your adventure upside down and sideways in an instant.

His number one lesson? Be smart, be prepared, and don’t let your ego make the decisions for you.

Sound advice.