For a season in my life I almost forgot that I LOVE to read!

A few years ago my oldest son and I were talking about hobbies. At first it was discussing what a ‘hobby’ was. After discussing everyone’s hobby in our family he asked me what mine was. I told him it was reading. He looked at me in astonishment and exclaimed,

‘Really? Nuh,uh! I never see you read!”

He had no idea that at one time I had a life! All of a sudden it became very apparent – AGAIN – that I usually spend my time helping everyone else do their thing while neglecting my own! So, with another life ‘course-adjustment’ I re-entered the world of books.

One of the reasons I love to read is that I love to learn! It is so important to keep feeding ourselves. As women we have a tendency to give and give, running the risk of drying up! We are in the midst of managing crazy 21st century living while at the same time keeping strong marriages, healthy friendships, connected kids and a myriad of other commitments. How we do all this and do it well?! By gaining wisdom and insight from others!

BY READING.

Another reason that I love to read is for entertainment! There are so many great fiction books out there as well. I am careful to not get too lost in these kinds of books but to be honest, every once in a while a good story can be very inspiring. I do encourage all of us women to be sure that the fiction that we read be full of faith and inspiration. There is a lot of trash out there that we can get wrapped up in that is not good. But keeping all things in balance and in wisdom we can relax and enjoy a great story!

Because of the time element each of us face, I will be recommending books that ‘fit’ well in a busy day. They will be easy reads and well laid out information, not heavy ‘text book’ stuff that requires a highlighter and way too many brain cells to process!

So come on Girlfriend, it isn’t easy to find time to read but it is very beneficial to every area of your life! Carve out time for you to read, Because….you guessed it!

Life’s Better Here!

“The Shack”
by William P. Young

I love this book! The beginning is sad and I have a tendency to avoid sad books, but once you get to about chapter 4 things start popping!

This book speaks of the relationship between God and tragedy. Tragedy is very spiritual. It either drives people to Christ or away from Christ. This book dismantles the arguments that would cause people to run from Christ and instead be drawn closer to the loving nature of God. This is a great book to give away so be prepared to buy a few extra!

I have to admit that I had a bit of difficulty with a few of the author’s discourses. Being a pastor I believe in the local church. The author speaks of the religious establishment from a negative perspective. Though I can understand what he is saying, I also know of the amazing strength and life that flows from a healthy body of believers. I loved the concept of being the one that God is ‘especially fond of’! I greatly enjoyed chapter on judging God. I was crying as I read this chapter while sitting under the hairdryer getting my hair done. My hair dresser had read the book so she understood, but the other gals? Not so sure.

Be sure to read this book! Let me know your comments on it!

“For Women Only” by Shaunti Feldhahn

For Women Only
by Shaunti Feldhahn

It has been 3 years since I first read this book. I must say it is still ringing in my ears! This is a no-nonsense book that will help every woman to understand the man in their life. I apologized to my husband after reading it. I had not been aware of his needs in so many areas!

It is an especially easy book to read. It is short and concise with a lot of examples and short stories to help you relate. It is a definite ‘have to’ read.