Book Picks

When I was in elementary school, one of my favorite ways to whittle away a Saturday was snuggled in our overstuffed chair between stacks of books.  (Actually, this would still be my weekend preference, but life is a tad more demanding now.)  I would literally finish one and pick up another.  It was like Pringles—once you pop, you can’t stop.  Man, I sooo hope my kids love reading!  Boredom is simply never an issue when there are books to be read.  Anyway, while visiting my folks recently, one of my cousins (Josh, are you out there?)mentioned that he’d read Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption, which is written by Laura Hillenbrand, author of one of my favorite books, Seabiscuit.  He recommended it highly, plus it was already on my Goodreads list, so I decided to check it out.  It was amazing.  In fact, I really can’t recommend this book highly enough.  The only problem is that you will disappear for a few days, and your husband will be bummed when you refuse to hang out with him because you are completely riveted. 

If you’re looking for another compelling read, I would also suggest Brother Andrew’s book, God’s Smuggler, which is an autobiographical account of one man’s work behind the Iron Curtain.  Your faith will be strengthened.  Also, I can’t recall if I’ve mentioned it before, but Ann Voskamp’s One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are left me with quite a heart check this year.  Definitely a book to read, give away—rinse and repeat. 

Any good book recommendations out there? 

P.S. Since every post needs a photo…here are some of my recent favs, completely unstaged.

Pressed up against the sliding glass door…

He had to endure a few extra seconds of being stuck while I snapped these photos…then I rescued him.  : )

Playin’ around at the park…

Indoor skateboarding with his pal…this didn’t last too long.  : )

Pool time!  This was Liam’s first swim, and he was a champ!

Summertime Snippets

A few random items that I’ve been meaning to post…

1.  Check out my amazing brother’s yoyo skills!  He won the Ft. Wayne talent show—better known as “Famous in the Fort”—on Monday night and was interviewed on TV.  Here’s the video.  For a few more juicy details, head over to Ross & Leah’s blog.

2.  I just finished reading a memoir, Surprised by Oxford, by Carolyn Weber.  Absolutely fantastic read!  Her writing is peppered with references to all sorts of classic literature, which of course made this English teacher’s heart swoon.  Also, I’m in the middle of listening to The Story of Beautiful Girl, by Rachel Simon.  While I haven’t finished the book yet, rest assured that the unique storyline and writing will captivate you.  Grab a blanket and glass of sweet tea, and head outside for some delicious summer reading!

3.  With new-parent exuberance, Matt and I loaded Liam in the car yesterday evening and took off for a quick trip to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.  Unbeknownst to us, the zoo closed at 6 pm and we didn’t arrive until 5:30…as it was beginning to rain.  Undeterred, we dashed to the nearest animal exhibit—the giraffes.  Sadly, they had just been herded inside, and as soon as we arrived the heavens chose to unleash on us.  We snapped a few photos before braving the rain once more on our way back to the car.  As you can see, Liam didn’t miss a beat—haha!

This kid definitely seems to take after my narcoleptic tendencies—he can sleep through almost anything!   *Did you notice that Liam is wearing his official “I’m excited to go to the zoo” onesie?  And don’t worry—while it looks like the giraffes are stampeding in the first photo, they were actually quite mild-mannered.*

Hope you are enjoying summer and making the most of each day! 

TGIF

Can I get a WOOT WOOT for Friday?  TGIF is right!

I'll keep this post short n' sweet, but I was thinking about The Book-It List, and I realized that I forgot to list a fantastic book called The Help.  It's a story about Southern maids who finally gather the courage to tell their side of the story.  You will love these characters!  Plus, the historical fiction is fascinating.  Reserve it quick at your local library!  And yes, I am a huge fan of libraries.  Can you imagine how broke I would be if I purchased every book I read?  Not to mention that I adore the Old Colorado City Library.  Apparently it's a Carnegie Library, which means layers of history are tucked behind its doors.  Close your eyes and breathe in the scent of books, soft wood floors, and lofty ceilings laced with thick molding.  Heavenly.

On a completely different note, we hit 1,000 unique blog readers today!  That's 1,000 completely new visitors to our little shanty.  We decided that we're going to celebrate...which really just means we get to eat out tonight!  I'm torn between the fresh and feisty Salsa Brava and the hole-in-the-wall-make-their-own-pasta-goodness Roman Villa.  Decisions, decisions.

More importantly, we're sending a big shout out to all of our faithful readers, curious clickers, and DIY friends.  That means you.  Many thanks for your kind thoughts and constant encouragement.  We heart you.  And DIY.  Aww shucks.  Thanks for being great.