C.S. Lewis said, "You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me."
Well said, Mr. Lewis!
Two of the joys of my life are drinking tea and reading books.
In fact, having a day to myself with unlimited tea to drink and unlimited time to read sounds like a dream! Can you imagine such a day? I think somewhere in my former life I used to have these occasionally, but not so much anymore since a certain two children came along. Maybe I'll ask for a day like that for my birthday...!
Despite the busyness of motherhood, I still manage to squeeze in regular time to read. It may be done in fragments, but it remains an important part of my life. Actually, I am still often in the middle of several books at a time!
I recently read three books, each completely different from each other, that I really enjoyed and thought I'd recommend to any fellow book lovers out there.
Take Two by Karen Kingsbury
This is the second in the Above the Line series, and it explores issues like trying to live a consistent Christian life and make an impact in Hollywood, facing temptation on a college campus, overeating as a result of stress, the confusion falling in love can bring, and more - but all while telling an engaging, entertaining story. As usual, Karen Kingsbury weaves Biblical principles into her characters and story lines, making it inspirational as well as enjoyable. I have read all the different series that led up to this one, and have grown to love the characters that remain in the background of this particular series and am enjoying getting to know the new ones.
A Year of Blind Dates by Megan Carson
I picked this up at the Christian bookstore because the title intrigued me, and I finished it in a mere few hours. It was engaging from the start as it followed Megan, a nearly 30 year old single who previously only had one relationship, through a year of blind dates thanks to a very expensive and "reputable" dating service in town. I literally laughed out loud several times along the way, but the book was not just funny but often touching, sometimes sad, and in the end, inspiring. It's a quick, fun read that makes you think about what a single girl in today's world is up against trying to hold out for a godly man. While you, like I, may not agree with every move she makes along the way, I think in the end you'll be rooting for Megan, yourself, or your single girlfriends who are still waiting for a wonderful man of faith to come along while experiencing much personal growth and increased trust in God during the dating/waiting process.
12 Steps to Becoming a More Organized Mom by Lane P. Jordan
My mom gave me this awhile ago, and I am constantly picking it up and re-reading bits and pieces of it. While much of the information in this book is familiar, it is nice to be reminded that other women out there are trying to juggle marriage, motherhood, work, chores, relationships, finances, etc. This book gives practical, Biblical advice for all these areas of life and more! It is encouraging and motivational, challenging us women to gain balance in our busy lives, but the challenge is given with a tremendous measure of grace from someone who has been there. Since I am constantly struggling with organization and balance(sigh), I really enjoyed this one am sure I will continue to go back to it again and again when I need a little loving motivation!
So there you go, three good books to check out- one novel, one account, and one resource!
Oh, and just for the record, the Bridal Tea (purchased at the Camellia Rose Team Room) and the Godiva Dark Chocolate Almonds (given to me, but purchased at Steinmart) pictured in the photo were good picks as well!
Happy tea drinking and book reading!
(P.S. And I bet Mr. Lewis would completely approve of enjoying some Godiva for good measure...)
