What's on my radar?

Now that I've finished telling you all about our trip to Texas, I thought I would mention some things that I am thinking about right now.  You know, before I start talking about all things anniversary-trip-to-Chicago.

Books.  I need to read Divergent and Insurgent by Veronica Roth.  I have recently read The Hunger Games trilogy, twice.  And the 50 Shades of Gray trilogy.  I've started reading Game of Thrones, but I'm having a hard time getting into it.  I think a large part of the problem is that I have the book in paperback, and I like reading on my Nook so much better now.  I'd also like to read Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies, both by Hilary Mantel.  The last book of the Fallen series is due out next week, too.  So I guess you could say that I have my summer reading list all put together.

Music.  I just got the soundtrack to The Hunger Games movie.  It's pretty good, but more country than I remember the movie being.  I love the Taylor Swift song, Eyes Open.  Oh, and everywhere I look there are good things about Carrie Underwood's new CD, Blown Away.  I should probably get myself a copy of that, too.

Movies.  I still need to see The Avengers.  And like a million other summer releases look great.  We did see Dark Shadows and The Hunger Games in the theater.  We also finally got around to watching Underworld: Awakening at home.

Right now the kids and I are having a Madagascar movie marathon in order to prepare for the release of Madagascar 3 this weekend.  We love the Penguins of Madagascar, but we had never actually watched the first two movies.  Until right now.  And Brave is coming out in time for Connor's birthday weekend.  That's the news on the kids' movie front.

Blogs.  (Other than mine, I mean.)  Breakfast with Nick: Columbus and OHventures.  Both of these are pertinent to my little part of the world.

Places.  Piatt Castles.  I was first introduced to the poetry of Sarah Piatt in college, and it is fantastic.  The Piatt Castles in West Liberty, Ohio are celebrating 100 years of public tours this year.  I think we need to go and visit.

The Ohio State Planetarium has closed for renovations.  I can't wait for it to reopen this fall so that I can take the boys.  We've been missing a good local planetarium since the one at COSI closed.

Last but not least.  Oh, and this video that Kevin showed me the other night: