my favs. are "The Blue Sword" and "The Hero and the Crown" both by Robin McKinley. I found "The Blue Sword" in 6th grade and would read it every so many years, then I finally bought myself copies of these and I am still reading them. One of the first books that I read where a girl was a warrrior who was strong, proud, and herself ans still able to be gentle. it sure explains a lot about my love of swords though. lol

i always remember you guys going over the ranger rick magazines all the time. mmm...and wanting a white bengal tiger.