I love to read, ride bikes, hike, take long walks along the lake. I collect glass art (slowly, because my taste far outstrips my budget). I love cooking, wine tasting, and collecting cookbooks.
First Lord of the Rings reading experience:
I first read The Hobbit in 1973 as a school assignment. I finished in record time and went on to Lord of the Rings immediately even though it wasn't part of the assignment. I had the same reaction upon finishing that repeats to this day - I read the last pages more and more slowly, not wanting the experience to be over. Thank goodness for the appendices, and thank goodness for my high school teacher for turning me on to the most memorable books I've ever read!
Favorite Tolkien character:
I would have to say Faramir because I have a little crush on him. I love Aragorn until I get to the Houses of Healing, and then Faramir completely wins me over.