Saturday, June 27, 2015

In other words....

“Have you really read all those books in your room?”

Alaska laughing- “Oh God no. I’ve maybe read a third of ‘em. But I’m going to read them all. I call it my Life’s Library. Every summer since I was little, I’ve gone to garage sales and bought all the books that looked interesting. So I always have something to read.”
― John Green, Looking for Alaska    
 
 
And, thus why I LOVE summer!
 

“One benefit of Summer was that each day we had more light to read by.”
― Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle
 
 
 
There are actually LOTS of things I love about summer - this summer in particular.  In the last month, we've had parties, surfed in Hawaii, taken a road trip, driven ATV's, kayaked, long boarded, cliff dived, hiked, jumped waterfalls, planted flowers, soaked up sunscreen, took a helicopter ride, and played in the pool.  But, there's something delicious about having more time to quietly read a good book too, yes?  Even better if it's on the beach, but I'll take it lying on the grass just as readily. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
What I just finished reading....
 
 
 
 
 
I love the work that Lisa does both in and out of the church.  I think, in fact, that all churches would benefit from the authoritative voice of a mother pulled up around the table assisting the fathers in leading the family, metaphorically speaking.  Whereas this isn't a book about women in church leadership, Ladies, if the title jumps out at you, go ahead and read it.  Consider it deep calling to deep and all that... 
 
 
 
 
 
This is possibly one of the most interesting things I've ever read. Very well researched and in my opinion, a game changer.
 
 
 
 
This I picked up from Family Christian on the $1 rack and read it in 1 day.  Written by a pastors daughter, the story was essentially about her disdain for tradition without substance, phony church and fake family, and her journey of falling in love with the actual Jesus -- and back in love with the actual church -- and deciding to keep and love her actual family...all while over coming a serious eating disorder.  I related to the story deeply, and it was actually so good.  :)
 
 
 
 
 
I have read this before, and even written about it.  However, I picked it up one day just to "re-enjoy" a chapter or two -- and just ended up reading the entire book again.  It's my current favorite gift to give as well.  Each chapter reads like an episode of the Food Network.  You'll want to bake Blueberry Crisp even if you hate baking and dislike blueberries.  I already have, twice.
 
 
Currently waiting for me on my side table...
 
 
 
 
 
 
I know.  I know.  EVERYONE IN THE WORLD HAS ALREADY READ THIS BOOK AND TAKEN THE TEST.  But...I haven't.  I find myself in a time of transition these days...at least inside my own brain.  I've wrapped up (so to speak) a few "core personal projects"...like kids graduating and moving out.  Young kids moving into highschool and needing a little less of my time (just a little less, not much).  A husband happy and thriving in his career.  A body that is FINALLY healthier than it's ever been.  And, I find myself sometimes wondering 'what's next'?  And, I am interested in preparing for 'next', so...I'm taking the test as a very first step.
 
 
 
 
 
My "dream job", despite what others think, isn't actually "teaching" (even though I believe I'm an experienced, and good teacher).  My dream job is owning real estate.  My kids look at me like this is the most boring "dream job" a person could possibly come up with.  But...I'd like to eventually own the building my business will reside in. 
 
I'd like to own house(s) around the world and send minister's families on surprise vacations. I envision calling it...get ready for it...SnowDays.  And, if you've ever known the joy of thinking you had to go to work/school AGAIN on Monday morning, but wake instead to a yard glistening with white snow and a banner going across the TV alerting you of a surprise SNOW DAY...a surprise VACATION DAY...well you know why this is fitting.   
 
My tag line will be "Because the Pastor's family deserves to go to Disney World Too."  :)
 
 
 
And, then there is this.  Yes, yes, yes...it is soooooooooo cheesy.  But I've read everyone of their cheesy fiction books.  And, sometimes I just want an easy, fast, lay on the grass and eat it up, cheesy read.  So, there ya go.
 
As always, I'd LOVE to know what you are reading as well!  Mostly, so I can go buy those books too!
 
 
Blessings,