Favorite books of 2020.

  I love reading and talking about favorite books and and finding new favorites and hanging out at library. I'm fully aware of how un-cool that makes me😂. But it's true! And I'm trying to find ways to let the light in this year, right? Reading is definitely a bright spot. I keep a running list on my phone of all the books I read so I can dole out recommendations to people whenever they ask (truly, I LOVE giving out book suggestions!).  I've been in a bit of a reading rut since the New Year, so I'm on the hunt for any and all recommendations (except non-fiction. No thank you!). Let me know if you have any favorites! 

  But anyways. While I'm not currently reading anything good, I read a ton of great books last year. I was texting my bff a list of my favorites the other day and I wanted to leave them here, too. I geek out about giving people book recommendations! So in case you happen to need a good book to read, here are my 12 favorite reads from last year (In no particular order)...

The Only Woman In the Room: I found this book off our local library's book club list and had zero expectations before reading it. So good! It is based on a true story and just a fascinating read about a women who had a huge impact on history!

The Tattooist of Auschwitz: A friend told me about this and I am so glad I picked it up! Based on a true story and a book a couldn't put down.

The Last Mrs. Parrish: This caught my eye at Target before we went on vacation last winter and it was a quick read with a fun twist. 

Class Mom: Another quick, easy read. Just a funny take on the 'class mom' stage of life! And I just realized it is the first book in a series. Adding the other two to my 'hold' list at the library asap!

The Shark Club: I love the ocean and living in a beach town, and this book just made me want to move even further South to the Keys!  I loved the main character's fascination with sharks and the overall story that unfolds. Easy read!

The Giver of Stars: Another book from our library's book club list! I literally took a picture of the book club flyer and immediately put every book on the list on hold. Some turned out to be duds, but this one was really, really good. Another historical fiction (not my usual go-to!) based on true events. I had no idea about the Packhorse Librarians!  Another un-put-downable book!

America Royals: I listened to this on Audible (super out of the ordinary for me!) and surprisingly loved it. The narrator was great and the story is SO fun. It's a creative take on what would have happened if, instead of becoming the first U.S. President, George Washington instead became America's king- and focuses on the current day royal Washington family. A fun, fun read!

American Royals II: Majesty: I couldn't rent this sequel (on Audible again) quick enough! Just as good as the first book and I'm dyinggggg for the third to come out. If you need a lighthearted, fun series- this one is it. 

The Heir Affair: (sequel to The Royal We, another GREAT read!) Another audible book, simply because I couldn't get it from our library! But I wasn't upset about it. While not at good as the first book in the series, I still loved it!

Tweet Cute: A friend recommended this YA books to me and it's really cute! 

The Guest List: This psychological thriller had me guessing until the very last chapter. Really well written!

Salt to the Sea: This was a book club pick, and we all agreed it was great. I know WWII books are really popular, but it isn't my favorite genre. So I was surprised by how much I loved this! It focuses on a few different characters throughout and I loved how it ended. 

...and if here are lots of 'what I'm reading' lists from the past few years. 

Summer reading.

For the past few years, I've signed myself (and the boys!) up for our library's summer reading program. That sounds super official (and nerdy), but it really just means I hop online every few weeks to log our reading time or the books I've read. Then, when we visit the library we stop by the kids' desk and pick up prizes (and I grab my Target gift card and free book while the boys get half a dozen gift cards and treats). It's the best. Really simple, but it helps the boys feel excited about reading and visiting the library and it make me more intentional about reading for myself. Plus, our library has the BEST kids prizes (Chick-fil-a gift cards!)

Anyways. I was logging in my books this week and realized its been awhile since I shared some of what I've been reading. So here it is! To be honest, I've been reading more lighthearted and simple books to offset the non-fiction books I've picked up. Ever since taking a break from book club this year, the mix of books I read has changed drastically (aka I'm sticking with what I know). So after writing out my list, I realized its a bit boring and now I'm on the hunt for a few more fun books! Any suggestions?

 I should add that I am typically NOT a non-fiction reader. At all. I'll read maybe one a year, but they just aren't very interesting to me and I have the hardest time finishing them. For whatever reason, I've actually read (and loved!) a few already this year. I'm really surprised by that! I think its more of a testament to the books than my preferences actually changing (I don't plan to read any more non-fiction this year!). So the ones I've listed below are really, really good and definitely worth reading. :)

The Weight of Blood: actually a pretty creepy read. Overall an interesting story, but probably a bit to dark/realistic for me.

The Selection Series: SO GOOD. I've probably talked about these before? Crazy fast reads- you'll be sucked in right away. Probably the best (fiction) books I've read all year!

Unseen: I don't have the words to really say how much I loved this book, or rather, the whole premise of the book. So much so that I bought the book after borrowing and reading it from the library first! I'm slowly working my way through it again (and doing the deeper studies included after each chapter)

The Business Boutique: Another non-fiction! But if you have or are dreaming of starting your own business or side hustle, this is a super comprehensive and helpful book.

Simplicity Parenting: And another non-fiction. While not terribly ground-breaking, I really liked it. I have a background in therapy and counseling, so some of his ideas didn't seem new or inventive to me. But I liked the further look into what creating a quieter environment for kids (and ourselves!) looks like- especially how to facilitate deep play and filter out the adult world.

The Blue Bistro: Simple and sweet (if incredibly predictable) beach read.

The Hot Flash Club: I'm loving this series! I've read the first two and I think there's one more. The author weaves together the lives/stories of a few older women and it's just a fun read.

(Ps. See my summer reading lists from 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017) 

Summer reading.

  I just looked back in my blog archives and realized that this is my 5th year doing my library's summer reading program. That makes my nerdy heart so happy! I've started enrolling the boys too and it's fun to see them get into it (and by them, I only mean Caleb because Tyler is too little/wild to care!).

  I'm trucking away at my reading goal for the year (20/24!) and figured it was time for an update on my reading list. And, since we're heading out for vacation our family trip in two weeks, I need some new recommendations!

Here is what I've read since my last update in March (I'm actually surprised by the amount since I took basically all of April off from reading). My favorites are highlighted!

• Home: Sort of a dark premise and I picked it up based on another book from the author that I loved. It was just ok and I had a hard time getting past the dark/unnecessary beginning. 

• Everything I Never Told You: Meh. It was a book club book and we all showed up thinking we didn't love it but had so much to say about it!

• The Storied Life of AJ Fikry: Another book club read. Short and fast read. Really liked it and wanted it to go on!

• The Fifth Letter: really fast read and interesting premise. Not amazing, but good.

• The Royal We: Oh. My. Goodness. I COULD NOT PUT THIS DOWN. So so good and maybe my favorite read of the year? So, so, so good and fun. 

• When In Doubt, Add Butter: I totally grabbed this off the shelf because of the title and cute cover. It was cute and easy to read. 

• The Underside of Joy: A really sad book. I don't know that I loved it, but I'm glad I read it. If you like more serious books that make you think- its great for that! 

• Here I Go Again: A silly, girly book. I liked it and loved how it ended! 

Ok, that's what I've been reading. Now hit me with your best/favorite beach reads! I'm talking fiction and something that you just can't put down!

(See my Summer Readings from 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)

Recent reads. (March 2017)

  I mentioned in January that I want to read more books this year. I set out with a super practical goal of 2 books each month (24 books for the entire year). I'm all about realistic, practical, and specific goals and that seemed like a good number to start with. 

  It's mid-March and seems like a good time to pop in and give an update on how that goal is going. As of today, I've read 12 books since January 1st. I KNOW. I surprised myself and have been a reading fanatic! It's is as if I opened the floodgates and honestly fell back in love with reading. Ok, that's sort of dramatic but you get the picture. As a bit of a back story, I'm sort of an intense reader. I can't slowly thumb through a book over a few days or weeks' time- I truly need to finish a book within a day or two of starting it. Probably not the most healthy way to read, but its like starting a movie and having to finish it in one sitting (except most movies last only 2 hours or less...).

  All around, I'm so glad I set this goal. Reading is a treat for me and I let myself sit down for a bit to read after the boys go down for their naps and before I start working. Or if Justin wants to watch Narcos in the evening (I can't with that show.). A couple of months ago Justin also shared with me an article he read about millennials and how we are trademarked by being constantly glued to our phones. While I wouldn't say that's true of me all the time, I do work primarily on my phone and I genuinely enjoy social media. The article was a great catalyst for stepping back a bit, and I even went so far as to fast from Instagram for Lent. Suddenly, I have even more free time to read!

  Blah blah blah- here's the real point to this post! Below is the list of books I've read so far this year; highlighting my favorites and the one I think you'd do yourself a favor to not read. I'm still chugging along and taking any/all fiction book requests, so comment with your favorites!

• Sweet Girl Rachel Hollis
• Beach Town Mary Kay Andrews 
• The Decent Proposal Kemper Donovan (Not exactly a love story, but in the best way. Pretty interesting premise) 
• Ladies Night Mary Kay Andrews
• How To Party With An Infant (no no NO do not read this. It was such awful writing and not a good story at all. Just a waste of 8 hours)
• Spring Fever Mary Kay Andrews
• The Weekenders Mary Kay Andrews (Maybe one of MKA's best books, a cute beachy read with a mystery twist thrown in)
• Fool Me Once Harlan Coben (YES you have to read this one. Couldn't put it down and was surprised up to the very end)  
• Days Like These Sue Margolis
• Sunshine Beach Wendy Wax (I found out too far in that this was part of a series, but it would be worth it to start at the beginning. A lighthearted read with a little mystery thrown in) 
• The Things We Wish Were True Marybeth Mayhew Whalen (would make a good book club book- lots of characters and intertwining stories to think about)
• Save The Date Mary Kay Andrews (Ok, I think I've officially read all of her books by now. They're so good and fast and lighthearted! I love every single one)

2017 reading.

 

 I'm extra motivated to read more books in 2017 (already finished one!) and I'm keeping a list of the ones I read to help me keep track, as well as a list of books I want to read. It seems like I post something like this every few months, but I really do get the best recommendations when I do, so here I go again! 

  Any must read FICTION books? (Guys. I really just don't love non-fiction. I can only handle like 3 a year). And in case you are on the hunt for some great books to read this year, too- here are some of my favorites to recommend. There's a great chance I've already included some of this in past posts but I'm too lazy to go back and check!

Party Girl and Sweet Girl// Just finished the second book in this series and they are good. Not life changing, but light and easy and not trashy AT ALL which is annoying hard to come by these days.

The Shadow Of The Wind// This was a rogue book club book a few years ago and it was AMAZING.  I think we all loved it and I talk about it all the time.

The Savannah Series// Super easy and silly, but great weekend or summer reads.

One True Loves// I randomly picked this up from the impulse New Book section at the library and couldn't put it down. SUCH A GOOD BOOK.

Friday Night Knitting Club// It's actually been years since I read this, but it's surprisingly funny and not at all what you think its about based on the title.

The Inner Circle// I think I discovered Brad Meltzer in high school and his books are SO GOOD. Super intense and they leave you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

Anything by Mary Kay Andrews// Maybe there's a theme here? I just love all of these books lately because they are fast and easy and silly and painfully predictable, but I don't hate that. 

Happy reading this year! 

Beach reads.

 We're gearing up for a week in Florida with Justin's brothers and cousins and I am so excited. I fully realize the trips with two kids mean its not really a vacation, but bring on all the poolside naps and extra hands (Justin's) to change diapers, and fun with family. We haven't seen our niece since September and it will be extra fun to spend time with her!
  Its impossible to go on a beach vacation without a few good books to read, right? But here's where I need your help- I'm so out of the book loop these days! What are you reading? What should I add to my list? I'm kind of done with non-fiction for now (I am bringing this one along, but that's it!). Fiction is just easier and lighter and more fun!

But really. Leave a comment letting me know what I need to pick up from the library this week!

Ps. I'm almost done with this one, so if you need a recommendation, pick it up. SO SO GOOD.

Making it happen.

 I finally carved out some time over the weekend to pick up my copy of Make it Happen. If you love Jesus, are a female, and have access to the internet- you've likely heard of Lara Casey and her new book. 
  I don't usually gravitate towards the super trendy non-fiction Christian books {I really, really disliked One Thousand Gifts...I know.} and when I do pick one up, it almost always takes me months to finish. But I've been really curious about what Lara has to say about living life on purpose and making things happen in your life ever since I left my job and became a stay at home mom. 
  I love my role as a SAHM and am so very grateful for this sweet season. Hear that. I'm also really passionate about people and helping others and fostering growth and change {so, social work}. I know I'm totally doing that in small ways with Caleb every day, but it's been a big adjustment to step back from counseling and doing community development work. So. I was curious about Lara's thoughts on balancing different gifts and passions in different seasons of life. 
 I was worried it was just for the throes of stereotypical late-twenty/early-thirty something Christian women balancing motherhood and deciding whether to start an etsy shop or other small biz. {There's nothing wrong with that! But can we all admit its very, very trendy right now?} I don't fall into that category, so I was unsure what I would get out of it. And? I liked it! It's a really, really easy read and Lara doesn't so much teach at, but instead makes it a very conversational book. 
  Lara's thoughts about living life on purpose can be related to anyone. It's not groundbreaking or totally life changing for me, but it made me really appreciate Lara. She talks a lot about stopping the glorification of busy and I really think she means it. I say that because we hear it a lot on social media- but the people shouting it are the very same ones who are writing a book, leading a ministry they started from the ground up, managing 3-4 kids, and have another kick ass small biz on the side. Again, awesome things! But sometimes it seems like we're glorifying it all. Not showing the real parts of hiring a nanny and housekeeper to help manage that lifestyle and not having a church home because of being so busy with social media and small business world. Yet those are the most popular people these days. But when Lara says to stop the glorification of busy, I buy it. She puts the first things first and lays out tangible ways we can do the same {read: stop trying to be trendy/popular}. 
  My most favorite part of the book is the guide at the end. Lara gives us tangible tools to work through to sift through all of our gifts/talents/desires/ and distractions. She talks about annual and perennial goals- I like that a lot. Making something happen doesn't have to happen right this second. But we can start today with small action steps. 
  I actually love the guide so much, I really want to sit down with some girlfriends and talk it out together. It's one of those things that would probably be much more rich done in conversation with others. {so I definitely recommend reading this book!} I'm looking at you, cooking club girls! So that's next on my to-do. To sit down and really think about what I want to make happen. Hint? It has something to do with being a good friend and encourager of other women. No etsy shop or small biz popping up over here! But I think good and meaningful things can happen out of seemingly ordinary and simple goals, too. 

Summer reading. {2}

  I mentioned last week that I'm on the grind when it comes to reading this summer. I just finished reading this gem over the weekend. Oh. My. Gosh. You have got to read it. Such a good story about real life human emotions and grace. It totally lived up to the hype. Then, just for fun, I read this the other day. Super cheesy and a little trashy, but sometimes that makes for a good book, you know? This is our book club book this month, so I should probably get started on that this weekend. And then keep working my way down my pile from the library's book sale. In the meantime, keep sending any and every good book my way! Also, if you haven't already, run to the library {or the kindle store} and buy this book asap. You'll thank me later. 

  And since no one even commented on it, I'll just reiterate that I totally joined my library's Adult Summer Reading Program. Where you read books and win prizes, people. This is my life. {but I'm totally banking on it being such a nerdy thing to do that no one else will do it and I will win all of the prizes. Smart thinking, right??}

Summer reading.

   Ever since finishing grad school last year and slipping into much more of a normal 9-5ish routine, I've been able to pick up reading for fun again. Then book club started a few months ago, and I've just been devouring books. This summer is turning out a bit differently than I had thought or hoped it would, but that just means there's even more time to get my read on. And we cancelled cable again, so that frees up some time. And I may or may not have join the library's adult summer reading program, so there's that. {don't judge me with your judging eyes...} 
   I stopped by my library's book sale on Saturday and had to make myself leave after finding 8 books in no more than 10 minutes. Self-control. I only spent $4.50, and have enough new books to last me into July. So you're probably thinking I'm not interested in hearing your book recommendations, since I have a whole stack sitting next to my bed, just waiting to be read. But you'd be wrong. What are you reading this summer? I hear good things about Gone Girl and all Jodi Picoult books. Anything else I have to add to my hold list at the library?

a book and some tea.

sleeping in and going into work later in the day makes for a wonderful morning.

changes and busyness.

Christmas with J's family in Florida was wonderful and pretty darn relaxing (one book read. check.) and we're back into the full swing of things. and back to a mess-ay house. messy. 

also, I realized I either a.) need to use the camera I have more often or b.) get a new one. I have a serious deficit of life pictures these days.

lots of work, small group supper-ing, and houseguest welcome-ing today. but a blog makeover is in the works. 

until then, rest easy knowing that I finally got my library card yesterday. if that's all I accomplish over this break, I'm a happy lady. mmmmm....i love reading.

happy almost new year's! :)

Clive Staples Lewis

C.S. Lewis is one of my favorite authors of all time.

(in fact, its on my list of things 'to-do over Christmas break' to reread some of his works)

If you've ready anything by him, you understand.

If not, you are missing out on one of the most wise, well spoken (err..written?) authors of all time. 

Last spring, J and I bought of book of his works to work through together, but we never really committed to it.

recently, though, I've been thumbing through on my own.

and its been delightful.

I thought I'd share this excerpt from the other day. Its really had me thinking.

"Hope is one of the Theological virtues. This means that a continual looking forward to the eternal world is not (as some modern people think) a form of escapism or wishful thinking, but one of the things a Christian is meant to do. It does not mean that we are to leave the present world as it is. If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next. The Apostles themselves, who set on foot the conversion of the Roman Empire, the great men who built up the Middle Ages, the English Evangelical who abolished the Slave Trade, all left their mark on Earth, precisely because their minds were occupied with Heaven. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this. Aim at Heaven and you will get earth 'thrown in': aim at earth and you will get neither. It seems a strange rule, but something like it can be seen at work in other matters. Health is a great blessing, but the moment you make health one of your main, direct objects you start becoming a crank and imagining there is something wrong with you. You are only likely to get health provided you want other things more- food, games, work, fun, open air. In the same way, we shall never save civilisation as long as civilisation is our main object. We must learn to want something else even more."**

-from Mere Christianity

**italics added