I always enjoy Alain de Botton’s work. To me, he’s equal parts psychologist, poet and philosopher.

His latest book is called A Week at the Airport, and though I am afraid of flying (or, perhaps because I am afraid of flying?), I really enjoyed reading it.

De Botton was asked by British Airways to write this book. He was given a week’s accommodation at the airport’s hotel, and access to the behind-the-scenes happenings that most of us have never even imagined. He interviewed both passengers and airline managers, and he even had a photographer present, who captured the amazing images that appear throughout. This book is filled with poignancy – a huge surprise, given that it’s about an airport, of all places. You definitely won’t have read anything like it, before! And after reading it, you won’t ever look at flying the same way again.

What do David Bowie and U2’s Bono have in common? Well, there’s music and stardom, of course. But in addition, both of them have worked with Brian Eno, musician, composer, artist and man of many talents.

Catch Brian Eno’s 77 Million Paintings at the Glenbow Museum this month. 77 Million Paintings is a constantly evolving sound and imagescape which continues Eno’s exploration into light as an artist's medium and the aesthetic possibilities of "generative software."

I particularly recommend attending the launch party for this exhibit. The Glenbow has recently begun hosting launch parties for its new exhibitions, and they are really quite fun! If you’re not a “museum person”, these parties are a great way to get you in the door. Admission is pay-what-you-can, and there will be music, performances and a cash bar, too!

Now, what to wear to the party? I’ll have to choose from my 77 Million pairs of shoes...

More information about the Glenbow Museum and the launch party here.

As I write this, it’s the 4^th day of January, 2011, and I’m right on track. Healthy lunches for today and tomorrow are in my office fridge, and my sneakers are hanging out under my desk – ready for a midday stroll through downtown.

I’ve made a monthly budget, cleaned and organized every drawer, cupboard and closet, and written down some long term goals, too. Do I dare to admit that I’ve also made appointments for a teeth cleaning, a haircut, a massage and an eye exam?

I’m ready for 2011 and beyond! How about you?

No matter what your resolution(s) may be, you’ll find all the support you need at the Calgary Public Library. Let us help you find material about budgeting, smoking cessation, diet and exercise, parenting, relationships, or anything else about which you’ve resolved to improve.

Register for a wide range of free programs from now until April, and check out our collections of DVDs, CDs, MP3s, and e-books, for some inspiration while you’re on-the-go.

Happy New Year, and good luck with those resolutions!