Brooks B67 leather sprung saddle

So far my longest trip was 40 miles on this saddle. It molds to your butt like Birkenstock sandals mold to your feet. The springs make the bike ride a little more comfortable and more fun (weird, because you bounce up and down on them). It also looks gorgeous. Comes in 3 colors - I got black.

Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires

So far I haven't had a flat with this tire. I've used Continental Gatorskin and Panaracer T-Serv, both of which have had flats (same Chicago streets). The Gatorskin has less tread than both, and wears to a slick surface faster.

Detours Toocan utility pannier

I've used this pannier to carry groceries, books, my laptop, clothing, anything. I like it because it's stylish (but also "normal" looking at the same time), stands up on its own, is extremely durable, and has the most universal attachment system: two hooks.

Instant City: Life and Death in Karachi by Steve Inskeep

I reviewed this book that the publisher sent to me.

The Death and Life of Great American Cities (50th Anniversary Edition) (Modern Library) by Jane Jacobs

Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell

Making Maps: A Visual Guide to Map Design for GIS by John Krygier PhD, Denis Wood PhD

If you are going to make a map, whether it be hand drawn or digital, you should really give this book a read. Then read it every time you make a map. It will help make sure your maps are laid out sensibly, in a way that others can easily read, and that it doesn't include fluff or unnecessary data.

The High Cost of Free Parking by Donald C. Shoup