A Bunch of Recommendations

Here we are at mid-July already; how is this possible? My personal calendar has been quite full, in the very best of ways, and I woke up this morning and realized that over half of this year has basically evaporated. Yikes!

Even with the fullness of my schedule, I have been able to maintain some solid boundaries on my time. I still don't work evenings; I still have every other Friday off; I still hold on to most of my weekends as sacred time. I've been enjoying beach days when possible; afternoon and evening sanctuary-time in my backyard; and vacations. I've got a couple of those booked, including one with my hubby and kiddos for a whole week in the Dominican Republic. Sun, sand, ocean breezes -- my intention is for that week to be a time of family connection, soul restoration, and absolute serenity. 

Part of what I love about being on vacation is the amount of reading I get done. I mean, when I'm lying on a beach or by a pool, what's better than poring through a book, whether fiction or non-fiction? Given that I am heading away next week, and imagining that some of you may have vacations on your horizon as well, I thought I'd offer some reading recommendations this week. Admittedly, this is a departure from my usual writing format; I figure it's a departure that you'll take in stride. 

In no particular order, here are some titles that I'd invite you to check out:

The Wake Up: Closing the Gap Between Good Intentions and Real Change, by Michelle Mijung Kim

This book is a must-read for anyone diving into the work of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Beautifully written and allowing for a broader context, you'll get a whole lot out of this. 

Tuesdays with Morrie, by Mitch Albom

Yes, I've recommended this before. It will always be on my must-read list. It's short, it's sweet, it's poignant. Trust me, you will not regret it.

Firekeeper's Daughter, by Angeline Boulley

A novel written by an amazing indigenous author. Her words are powerful, painting a compelling picture of indigenous culture including trials, tribulations and wisdom. 

The Henna Artist, by Alka Joshi

This novel was such a delight to read. The author does an impeccable job of pulling the reader into the rich culture of India, weaving together the stories of several families and their dynamics. I couldn't put this one down. 

The Anatomy of Peace, by The Arbinger Institute

I know, it sounds like a textbook, but it reads like a fable. The book is chock-full of wisdom for how to be in relationship together in meaningful ways, even when we are diametrically opposed in our viewpoints. I try to read this one at least once a year. 

The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto, by Mitch Albom

Yes, I'm a Mitch Albom fan, and I could probably list ALL of his titles here; that's how much I love his books. This one is a little different in how it's written. It reads like historical fiction and is so compelling. I fell in love with the characters and the writing. 

The Path Made Clear, by Oprah Winfrey

I know, Oprah doesn't need me to recommend her books. I love this one, however, and think it needs to have a place on this list. This book is a collection of such lovely bits of wisdom and pictures. I love easily digested books, and this one definitely fits the bill. 

If I Knew Then, by Jann Arden

Although it's been a while since I've read this, I come back to it from time to time. Another book that's written so simply and beautifully; it feels like having a conversation with a most down-to-earth person. If you're grappling in any way with who you are, how you're growing, who you're becoming, reading Jann Arden's words will likely remind you that you're not alone. 

Daring Greatly, by Brene Brown

Another author that I absolutely love; I have all the books by Brene Brown and lean into her wisdom almost daily. If you're wondering about leadership, vulnerability, and what it takes to live authentically, this book -- and really anything by her -- will give you what you need. 

What Matters Now: Lessons on Living with Ease, by Gail Jacob Barker

Yes, I'm putting in a plug for my own book. Because I think it would be a missed opportunity if I didn't, and also because I believe in its simple message: that living a life with ease is definitely possible, even in the midst of challenge. 

That's where I'll leave it today. And, I'd invite you to share with me any book recommendations you've got. I've got a shelf of books "to be read" and I'm always adding to it. While my goal is to read all of these books at some point, I figure I'll read what I can, when I can and it's always good to have too many books than not enough.