When I walk into a bookstore or a library, the first thing I do is close my eyes just for a moment and breathe deeply, allowing the scent of the books fill my lungs. I’m not sure what it is; Perhaps it’s the binding glue, the paper sizing, the chemicals in the shiny plasticized covers or a combination of them all. Practically speaking, it’s not the healthiest air to breathe nor is it a scent I would ever want to dab on my wrists, but for me it’s still intoxicating.

Books are so simple yet so amazing. You can carry them with you to the beach, to the dentist’s office, on a train, and they can teach you things, entertain you, transport you to another time and place, and even allow you to tell your story- without the need for electricity or software updates.

It’s funny to think that someone as tech-savvy and technology-dependent as me (yes I admit it- I’d be lost without my smartphone and laptop) has never been able to embrace the concept of an eBook, digital planner or electronic journal. For some reason, I just need to hold a book in my hands, hear the crinkle of the pages as they turn, and experience the feel of my pen gliding across the pages of my journal. The sensory feedback I get helps me to feel grounded and connected with the world. Yes, I will always embrace technology and change, and share the desire to keep striving for smarter, easier, environmentally friendly solutions to make life better. But when it comes to books, the plain old paper and string variety will be my lifelong companions.