Annalivia, 53

On New Year's Day I was in Playa del Carmen with two friends, trying to figure out if we should even pretend to make New Year's resolutions. One decided to give up dairy and vodka (the former has thus far lasted), and the other added pilates to her weekly repertoire. When I announced mine, they nodded and changed the topic to that night's dinner reservation. I have vowed to read a book by an author from each of the 50 states this year, and I just finished number 12. Some of the sticky regions are: Utah, South Dakota, Hawaii, and Alaska (Sarah Palin's does not count as a book in my opinion). Similarly dicey are Willa Cather, who represents Nebraska but is actually from Virginia. I think I'll count her as a cornhusker anyway - seems unfair not to. I know that Chuck Klosterman is actually from Minnesota, although Fargo Rock City has to count for North Dakota. Lillian Hellman's biography is going to have to count for Louisiana although I am pretty sure the author is European.

I am looking for someone who can help me sort out these questions. Those who live in and/or love Brooklyn are especially invited to chime in.