I'm not one for public declarations of New Year's resolutions.
For some reasons they always feel pressure-filled and somewhat hollow to me, almost like promises that I know will be broken.
What I did come up with LAST year, however, was a commitment to myself to READ. I don't mean reading aloud to my kids (which is important), or encouraging my children to read (which is also important). I mean ME reading (is that grammatically correct?).
For pleasure. For enjoyment. For learning.
As a homeschooling mom I had fallen into the trap of self neglect. I was neglecting feeding my heart, soul, and mind. For me, reading is such a wonderful way to escape the daily grind and also enrich my life at the same time.
I had to be intentional about time to read. Sometimes I gave up other things (like a clean house or even - gasp - reading to my own children!) to read, but it was always worth the sacrifices I had to make.
Just as I'm providing a list of literature for your children each month, I will also provide you -- the ADULTS -- with a list of recommended books for the month.
They are books that I have read and loved and can wholeheartedly recommend to you.
Enjoy!
Books For Escape and Enjoyment
Classics
I am growing in this area.
The classics used to scare me - but I am truly learning to enjoy them and am easing myself into them a little at a time. I have two to recommend for you this month, and I think they are both a GREAT place to start.
Historical Fiction
This is admittedly my favorite genre to read... so there will always be more of these recommended I'm afraid!
Books for Self Education
The books in this category help me develop my skills as a homeschooling mom, small business owner, a child of aging parents, and just awareness of the world at large.
Some of these were done as audio books on long car trips, while folding laundry, or while waiting for kids at their various activities.
* a disclaimer on this book - it was probably one of the BEST books I've listened to in a long time, but - because of the subject matter - there is a huge amount of cursing. I wouldn't let that stop you from reading/listening to the book, but it is fair warning.
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