Listening to Les Brown's cd set. Today's quote that caught my attention:
"Life is like a grindstone, it can wear you down or it can polish you up, depending how how you position yourself. "
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Current books I've got my nose in....
Woooweee!! I sure have been finding a lot of Barnes & Noble receipts laying around lately. I don't know if I feel like I need to get my money's worth out of my $25 annual Barnes and Noble membership card or if I think I just have a book fund that's neverending but lately, I've been supporting Barnes and Noble like it's no big deal. You would think I would just purchase a Kindle or Nook. I'm really trying to hold off from the electronics. It's probably the "old school" my parents instilled in me. I love physical books. And the perk of pulling out a book when everybody else has to shut off their electronics on a plane is somewhat of a "high" for me. Anyways, there's been a few great books I've picked up there so far and I wanted to share them. - SH
#1: THE HAPPINESS PROJECT by Gretchen Rubin
My good friend Lauren recommended this book to me. I would call it a self-help book. Definitely enjoying this read, learning to step out of your normal routine and try new things. This book has definitely helped me learn self awareness.
"Gretchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. "The days are long, but the years are short," she realized. "Time is passing, and I'm not focusing enough on the things that really matter." In that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project. In this lively and compelling account, Rubin chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier. Among other things, she found that novelty and challenge are powerful sources of happiness; that money can help buy happiness, when spent wisely; that outer order contributes to inner calm; and that the very smallest of changes can make the biggest difference."
How this book has tweeked me: That it's okay to be you and sometimes not do everything 110%. Example, I wrote the majority of this blog entry yesterday with the intention of posting it but I thought I might need to add a few other clips from books so I saved it in drafts folder. Now if it wasn't for what Gretchen Rubin said, this post probably wouldn't have gotten finished until June (or perhaps never). Whether this blog is done 100% complete or not, tonight it's getting posted. It's better to throw it out there 75% done then never put it out at all. With that being said, I do know following through and giving it your all to the end but for smaller things, sometimes you gotta just throw it out there with whatcha got.
#2: THROUGH MY EYES by Tim Tebow
Mr. Tebow's opening paragraph really caught me. People praise him and he doesn't feel like he deserves the credit, other times people criticize him and it cuts him to the bone. He mentions that even some feel they know his mindset and thoughts. But he wants it to come from him. That's where the title came from: THROUGH HIS EYES. You'll learn a long the way of this blog, I'm a Christian woman and let me tell you, Tim Tebow is not only good looking but he's every Christian Woman's dream man. When I get frustrated with the dating scene and think that there's no "normal", good Christian men out there, I remember Tebow, his actions and what he stands for. There is still good Christian men out there and I know God has the perfect one for me (maybe Mr. Tebow himself?) In the meantime, I'm working on the same qualities that a woman should have to support that type of man. This book tells the story of how Tim became what and where he is today. I also love what the Tim Tebow Foundation stands for: bring Faith, Hope and Love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need. woot woot!!
#3: JESUS IS CALLING, a 365 devotional by Sarah Young
My friend Tara and her mother Jacquelyn were the first who told me about this book. Then Kelsey, a fellow lady in my bible study/life group told me that when things like they are falling apart, this is the book that keeps her mind strong and prevents her from going crazy many days (note: Kelsey is a wonderful wife and mother of two youngins). I respect both these women very much so after both highly recommended it, I took the dive and dropped $19.99 (ooh wait, plus my B&N discount!!) on it. Let me tell you, WORTH EVERY PENNY!! and then some! :)
Example: April 16th: I am calling you to a life of thankfulness. I want all your moments to be punctuated with thanksgiving. The basis for your gratitude is My sovereignty. I am the Creator and Controller of the universe. Heaven and earth are filled with My glorious Presence.
When you criticize or complain, you are acting as if you think you could run the world better than I do. From your limited human perspective, , it may look as if I'm mismanaging things. But you don't know what I know or see what I see. If I pulled back the curtain to allow you to view heavenly realms, you would understand much more. However, I have designed you to live by faith, not by sight. I lovingly shield you from knowing the future or seeing into the spirit world. Acknowledge My soverignty by giving thanks in all circumstances.
#4: THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman
Just borrowed this from a friend. From what I understand, there's 5 Love Languages how we communicate Love to one another: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, Physical Touch. Once I dive into this further, I'll update.
#5: THE YOUNG & THIRSTY by The Kovac Brothers
The Young & The Thirsty: 25 California Wines For New School Drinkers is the mold-breaking new book by young winemakers Jacob and Jesse Kovacs that provides a map to their peers just beginning to cultivate a love for wine. The brothers’ goal is to launch a million winos with guidance as to which vintages offer a proper introduction to the sweet grape without being too harsh on the palate or pocketbook.
I bought this book in October 2010 from Jesse Kovacs, the stud a lot of you might know from ABC's The Bachelorette and The Bachelor Pad. A week after I moved out to California, we held the Bachelor Pad Premiere Party at our house and I was in charge of putting it together. After getting to know Jesse over the next couple months, I was invited to the Bachelor Pad Finale in Manhattan Beach where saleman Jesse talked me into buying a book. Jesse and brother Jacob put together a book of their wines, their ratings and explain how they grew up in the vineyard.
To see Kovacs Brothers website, click here.
Ask me sometime in person to see his personal message on inside cover.
Kovacs and girlfriend Summer have opened a boutique in La Jolla, CA (just north of San Diego) where it combines both their passions: apparel and wine. Take a look.
#6: HOW TO TALK SO KIDS WILL LISTEN & HOW TO LISTEN SO KIDS WILL TALK by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
Can't remember exactly where I first heard about this book but when I inquired about it at the library, the customer service lady said it was a classic. Haven't jumped into it quite yet but I'll update you more when I do. I'm reading it not because Aubrey is a difficult child, for those of you who I talk to on a daily basis, you know Aubrey is the most mellow, easy going child; she's ideal! I'm reading it because I work with many different kids throughout the week when volunteering, babysitting, everyday ventures, etc. It's always good to know how to talk to kids so you can communicate effectively and of course, listen to children so you know what they're trying to communicate.
#7: LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS by Nick Vujicic
Nick was first brought to my attention by a business friend, Scott Schilling. Scott had seen Nick speak at a conference and was blown away by him. I picked up his book the other day at the library and it's definitely one I'll recommend to others. Nick was born without arms and legs. Nick is a wonderful Christian man and shares his message of faith and positivity with others all over the world. Nick swims, golfs, surfs....what?! How can he swim? He has no arms or legs. Well, he's learned how to adapt to what he's been given. Can you imagine?? Everyday we let the smallest things get in the way and here this man with no limbs learns how to conquers the tasks we take for granted everyday. It's also been a fun read because Nick's parents moved to Agoura Hills (5 min. away) when he was a kiddio so he uses a lot of references that I'm familiar with.
A clip from the book, page 93: Attitude is Altitude, Powering Up!: You can change your attitude and change your life without taking a pill, seeing a shrink, or trekking to a mountaintop to consult a guru. So far in this book I've been enouraging you to find your purpose, to have hope for the future and faith in the possibilities for your life, and to love yourself as you are.
Have you read any of these books? If so, would love your opinions! If you've got a good suggestion, please let me know!
My good friend Lauren recommended this book to me. I would call it a self-help book. Definitely enjoying this read, learning to step out of your normal routine and try new things. This book has definitely helped me learn self awareness.
"Gretchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. "The days are long, but the years are short," she realized. "Time is passing, and I'm not focusing enough on the things that really matter." In that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project. In this lively and compelling account, Rubin chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier. Among other things, she found that novelty and challenge are powerful sources of happiness; that money can help buy happiness, when spent wisely; that outer order contributes to inner calm; and that the very smallest of changes can make the biggest difference."
How this book has tweeked me: That it's okay to be you and sometimes not do everything 110%. Example, I wrote the majority of this blog entry yesterday with the intention of posting it but I thought I might need to add a few other clips from books so I saved it in drafts folder. Now if it wasn't for what Gretchen Rubin said, this post probably wouldn't have gotten finished until June (or perhaps never). Whether this blog is done 100% complete or not, tonight it's getting posted. It's better to throw it out there 75% done then never put it out at all. With that being said, I do know following through and giving it your all to the end but for smaller things, sometimes you gotta just throw it out there with whatcha got.
#2: THROUGH MY EYES by Tim Tebow
#3: JESUS IS CALLING, a 365 devotional by Sarah Young
Example: April 16th: I am calling you to a life of thankfulness. I want all your moments to be punctuated with thanksgiving. The basis for your gratitude is My sovereignty. I am the Creator and Controller of the universe. Heaven and earth are filled with My glorious Presence.
When you criticize or complain, you are acting as if you think you could run the world better than I do. From your limited human perspective, , it may look as if I'm mismanaging things. But you don't know what I know or see what I see. If I pulled back the curtain to allow you to view heavenly realms, you would understand much more. However, I have designed you to live by faith, not by sight. I lovingly shield you from knowing the future or seeing into the spirit world. Acknowledge My soverignty by giving thanks in all circumstances.
#4: THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman
Just borrowed this from a friend. From what I understand, there's 5 Love Languages how we communicate Love to one another: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, Physical Touch. Once I dive into this further, I'll update.
#5: THE YOUNG & THIRSTY by The Kovac Brothers
The Young & The Thirsty: 25 California Wines For New School Drinkers is the mold-breaking new book by young winemakers Jacob and Jesse Kovacs that provides a map to their peers just beginning to cultivate a love for wine. The brothers’ goal is to launch a million winos with guidance as to which vintages offer a proper introduction to the sweet grape without being too harsh on the palate or pocketbook. |
| Summer, Jesse and myself in March 2011 at Kent's birthday party |
To see Kovacs Brothers website, click here.
Ask me sometime in person to see his personal message on inside cover.
Kovacs and girlfriend Summer have opened a boutique in La Jolla, CA (just north of San Diego) where it combines both their passions: apparel and wine. Take a look.
#6: HOW TO TALK SO KIDS WILL LISTEN & HOW TO LISTEN SO KIDS WILL TALK by Adele Faber & Elaine MazlishCan't remember exactly where I first heard about this book but when I inquired about it at the library, the customer service lady said it was a classic. Haven't jumped into it quite yet but I'll update you more when I do. I'm reading it not because Aubrey is a difficult child, for those of you who I talk to on a daily basis, you know Aubrey is the most mellow, easy going child; she's ideal! I'm reading it because I work with many different kids throughout the week when volunteering, babysitting, everyday ventures, etc. It's always good to know how to talk to kids so you can communicate effectively and of course, listen to children so you know what they're trying to communicate.
#7: LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS by Nick Vujicic
Nick was first brought to my attention by a business friend, Scott Schilling. Scott had seen Nick speak at a conference and was blown away by him. I picked up his book the other day at the library and it's definitely one I'll recommend to others. Nick was born without arms and legs. Nick is a wonderful Christian man and shares his message of faith and positivity with others all over the world. Nick swims, golfs, surfs....what?! How can he swim? He has no arms or legs. Well, he's learned how to adapt to what he's been given. Can you imagine?? Everyday we let the smallest things get in the way and here this man with no limbs learns how to conquers the tasks we take for granted everyday. It's also been a fun read because Nick's parents moved to Agoura Hills (5 min. away) when he was a kiddio so he uses a lot of references that I'm familiar with.A clip from the book, page 93: Attitude is Altitude, Powering Up!: You can change your attitude and change your life without taking a pill, seeing a shrink, or trekking to a mountaintop to consult a guru. So far in this book I've been enouraging you to find your purpose, to have hope for the future and faith in the possibilities for your life, and to love yourself as you are.
Have you read any of these books? If so, would love your opinions! If you've got a good suggestion, please let me know!
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