It has been a hot minute since I have last posted! Life has been a whirlwind for us all…and between the dreaded COVID19 virus, continuing homeschool, job obligations and all of the “normal life” stressors, I can barely remember what I had for breakfast let alone self-care.
However, we all need to realize self-care is honestly the thing we all need more of. As my boss likes to say “you cannot pour from an empty cup” and we really need to let that sink in. Honestly… take a second and let that really settle within you. Are you truly taking time to yourself? Are you honestly doing something to let your weary brain settle?
I myself have taken a deep dive back into reading as my number one self-care skill. For while, I barely had the motivation and even the want to read. I felt so exhausted in all facets of my life that reading became a chore- not an escape. But, I knew it was always my “safe place” and my retreat. So here I am getting back into one of the greatest joys in my life. I have been keeping it light and fun which is exactly what I need for this phase.
Here are a few suggestions for winter that are happy and fun and easy! Just what we all need!
DO YOU WANT TO GO BACK IN TIME?
Read: Midnight Sun (Stephenie Meyer)
Why I liked it: Well, Twilight duh first off. I am a huge fan of the series and I will always be. If Stephenie writes 329 more books in the series I will for sure read them. However, this one is Twilight from Edward’s perspective and I was here (clap) for (clap) it (clap). Many detailed scenes, many “all the feels moments” and also a time to see things from the other side. It was an eye opening tale that filled in the blanks and launched me back in time where I really want to live in–Forks. Also, Team Edward.
Cons: The only con was that this book is long. Like over 600 pages long…I didn’t mind that as I love this world. But, it is not a short read for sure.
WANT TO SWOON?
Read: The Happy Ever After Playlist (Abby Jimenez)
Why I liked it: Love story, grief coping, second chances, swoon-worthy scenes, told from both sides, and a little bit of rock ‘n roll. Bonus- the author had suggestions of a song at the beginning of each chapter which makes up- you guessed it- a playlist. This was a favorite of mine over the last 6 months and it renewed my spark for reading in this genre. I believed in the characters and the author was able to construct a delicate tale with complex characters that were interesting and people that I want to be friends with in real life.
Cons: I felt the ending was a bit rushed compared to the other parts of the story- but this wasn’t truly a negative more just a note.
WANT TO LAUGH and LOVE?
Read: Beach Read (Emily Henry)
Why I liked it: Firstly, I laughed out loud many times and that is always a good sign. Secondly, this book wasn’t all bubble gum and rainbows. It tackled affairs, illness, grief, vulnerability, humor and of course love. Lastly, it was well-written and flowed easily. Although it was technically a good “beach read” but the author was clever with this title (hint- that means it could mean something else wink wink). PS- who doesn’t want to read about the beach in the dead of cold weather?
Cons: Honestly cannot think of one right off the top of my head. It was fun, in-depth and had me guessing.
Tune in soon for some more reads as I am ripping through them. Comment below on what types of books you want to see me write about?