Well, folks. Summer is almost over, and I am super sad about it. June was filled with Vacation Bible School and doctors’ appointments and soccer tournaments and visits with family while July has been relatively quiet and lazy. But life will soon be busy again so I’m trying to soak in the last few days of pool time and afternoon naps.
Here are a few things I’ve been loving lately:
Something To Read
- Flashlight: This book was not what I expected. The premise is that a father and daughter head out for an evening stroll on the beach and don’t come home. The daughter is eventually found, injured but alive, yet her father is nowhere to be seen. I expected this book to be similar to Happiness Falls (which I loved and also recommend) but in fact, it was very different. I learned so much about the history of Korea and Japan, something I was completely unaware of. I definitely enjoyed this book!
- We All Live Here: Jojo Moyes is a great author (Me Before You is my favorite) but I had low expectations for this book. Until I picked it up and couldn’t stop reading it. The story follows a middle-aged woman post-divorce and her eclectic family who begin moving in with her. The characters are believable and interesting and the story is relatable on so many levels. I loved this one!
- Ordinary Time: This work of nonfiction is from Annie Jones, podcaster and owner of The Bookshelf, a bookstore in Thomasville, Georgia. This book is a beautiful picture of Annie’s life and journey of faith, of leaving, of finding her way. This one is still on my mind.
Some Things for Fun:
- Gold hoops: Brie bought this set a couple years ago and gave me a pair. I think I’ve worn them every single day this summer. This set is great because they are all just a little bit different, so if you’re looking for an inexpensive pair of gold earrings you can wear in the pool or on date night, these are for you!
- This initial necklace: I don’t wear necklaces very much during the school year because I have to wear a lanyard every day, so I’ve enjoyed wearing this necklace as much as possible this summer. Bubble necklaces are also super popular right now and at these prices, you can grab one of each!
- This straw hat: I bought this hat last summer for our trip to Portugal but I don’t think I wore it all when we were there. BUT I’ve worn it every time I’ve gotten in the pool this summer. I love that it’s not too big and floppy yet it still covers my face and back of my neck. Plus it’s super cute! Here is another option if you like wearing your hair up – also super cute!
- This shorts set: I bought a set similar to this one at the beginning of the summer and every time I wear it, I get tons of compliments. It’s cool and comfy and I highly recommend it!
Some Things to Listen to:
- That Sounds Fun summer edition: This year on her podcast, Annie F Downs has been talking through the seasons. This episode with Mike Kelsey about summer was so good. Go listen before summer is over!
- With the Perrys: I have mentioned Jackie Hill Perry and her husband Preston before but I’m bringing them up again. This episode about parenting and what to do when you don’t love being home was eye opening. I’ve had similar feelings that they have and this podcast gave me space to process and understand that our feelings are okay.
- This episode of Living Proof: Beth Moore has been airing a multiple-part series on Becoming Who You Are. I recommend listening to all of them but if you only have time for one, skip over to part 4. This one is about accepting our bodies, and I may have shed a few tears while listening.
That’s it for July! Let me know what you’re loving!
(some links are affiliate)