If you know me at all, it’s no secret that I love to read. When someone asks me what I’m currently reading, I often list a handful of titles… because what I pick up depends on the time of day and my mood. But one thing I will always adore: books about books/writing or set in book-ish settings, like bookstores and libraries. Here are just some of my favorite reads about books and … [Read more...]
Mindfulness Practices Even When We’re Busy: Book Review of ‘Everyday Mindfulness’
I have always loved the concept of mindfulness: slowing down and being present. But as a mom with two young kids? Practicing mindfulness can be, shall we say, difficult. While I have found small ways of working it into my life over the years, I've always been on the lookout for new approaches to mindfulness that work with my crazy, busy life on a regular basis. *** Oops & Daisies … [Read more...]
Tips for Building Resilience: Book Review of “You are Awesome” by Neil Pasricha
It’s no secret that I love Brene Brown and her work on vulnerability and shame. Her books -- and TedTalks, and Netflix show, etc. -- have helped me realize I’m not alone in a lot of what I feel and struggle with. One of her “catchphrases,” if you will, has turned into a life hack for me. When I notice my thoughts are headed in a direction that I don’t like, I stop, pause, and ask myself, “what is … [Read more...]
The Courage to be Vulnerable: Book Review of ‘Daring Greatly’ by Brene Brown
I’m going to get vulnerable here… and this is new for me. I feel like I’ve always been concerned with how other people perceived me. I always worried that I was too awkward and too weird. Or maybe too quiet. Or that I never knew what to say. In turn, I never felt “good enough.” It’s something I’ve been working on for awhile, basically ever since I’ve had kids, because I saw (and see on a daily … [Read more...]
Finding Beauty Everywhere: Book Review of ‘A Different Beautiful’
I first learned about Brenna shortly after she was born. News came from my sister-in-law, a best friend to Brenna’s mom, Courtney Westlake, that the little girl -- born just before Christmas -- was fighting for her life due to a rare skin condition. This sweet fighter named Brenna not only survived but eventually thrived. I first followed her story through Courtney’s blog and was always amazed … [Read more...]
