The past few days since “the knowing” have been pretty difficult to deal with, but not unbearable. Each day gets better and I’m thankful for that. There are still moments that I shed tears about the entire situation, but focusing more on the happy times makes everything a little bit easier to deal with.
But, you know what else is a wonderful coping mechanism? Reading. For past few days, I happened to stumble upon a few blogs, like here, here, and here, that listed the novels that they were currently reading and how therapeutic reading is. I could remember the outlet this created when I had more time to indulge in reading before I became a mother.
Yes, my kids are a handful, especially my son; but, I’ve used them as an excuse for much too often when they enjoy reading as much as I do. So, why not let them read with me? The idea came to me when I noticed my son skimming through the pages of a book that I had just purchased. I’m going to make it a habit to take them to the library whenever I can.
My son reading a book to me
I remember how I used to beg my mom to bring me to the library. Any and every library I saw, I wanted to explore what was inside. I’d spend hours there–getting lost within the aisles of stories, poems, narratives, and history lessons. Sometimes, I’d find a quiet corner and sit on the floor by a window and read. Other times, I’d head over to the big comfy couch and bury myself within the cushions while simultaneously, burying myself withing the pages. I’m glad my mom exposed me to the joy of reading. And with my children, I plan to do the same.
My daughter reading online
So, my little family and I are starting a book collection, which I’m hoping to turn into a little library/nook in a section in the living room. I’ve even installed a little shelf in my room for my collection which is coming along great. I visited a few thrift stores and saw this:
Now can you beat that? I spent $2.00 on 5 books. I also visited another thrift store. Their prices were a bit higher but I great finds indeed. Right now, I’m currently reading A Gracious Plenty by Sherri Reynolds. I started yesterday and I’m half-way through. I’ll probably finish tonight.
Oh, and I also joined a book club. An online book club via Nerd Girl. I have yet to get the book to begin reading, but I plan on stopping by the library tomorrow since Borders didn’t have it with their going out of business sale. -_- You guys should join too. Discussion begins on August 15th and we’re currently reading Tananarive Due’s – My Soul to Keep. I may just be interested in hosting the next book club. We shall see.
What are you guys currently reading?
Danielle
July 26, 2011 at 9:12 pmYou are such a strong woman, I admire your strength. It is definitely difficult getting through what you have gone through. I went through the same thing myself earlier this year and I know what you mean when you say that it gets better everyday. I think it is a nice time to use rediscovering yourself, spending time with your kids, and so much more. And eventually those thoughts of the past and times spent together will dry up on their own. The best part is when you realize that it wasn’t meant to be and that the person was simply preparing you for meeting your king. I love your blog btw, it is so inspirational and fulfilling!! 🙂
Shelly
July 26, 2011 at 9:15 pmThe way you dealt with what had happened in your previous post is so mature. Although I’m a little late on it, I’m sorry that you and anyone else involved in the situation had to go through something like that. I am glad to see that you haven’t let it tear you apart or push you deeper into a bad place.
That’s great that reading has helped you so much in coping! Reading is a great way to help relieve our stress; I personally love to read creative things whenever I’m in a bad mood. It always makes me feel better. It’s awesome how your children love reading, those pictures are absolutely adorable! And I LOVE going thrift store shopping or used book store shopping — getting a TON of hidden gems for only a few bucks.
I haven’t been reading much but I started to re-read the entire Ender’s Game series by Orson Scott Card. I’m a big nerd that get’s really into science fiction =P. Since college though, I’ve also been getting into a lot of political/global history type of books. I just finished reading Red Poppies, a story that also touches on the issues between CHina and Tibet, which was pretty eye-opening for me.
Raely B.
July 27, 2011 at 5:28 pmThank you for your kind words, Shelly. Even though a little sadness remains, I am glad it’s over.
I might have to check out Ender’s Game. Science Fiction has always been interesting to me as well. Red Poppies sounds interesting too. I also like reading a lot about the Holocaust and slave narratives. History accounts intrigue me.
Nicole
July 26, 2011 at 10:31 pmI haven’t check around lately, so I don’t know what’s going on in your life, but I hope you find the strength to get through it all ?
Reading is so relaxing, I’ve been reading more lately too. Right now I’m reading a book that I bought for myself and translated Japanese light novels that are really interesting for me to read (because I’m a nerd..?) but nonetheless, I’m actually reading more than I used to. Probably because I don’t have annoying summer assignments.
I think it’s really cute that your son reads to you! I used to work in a library and took a teaching class and it’s really important that kids should bond over books!
Raely B.
July 27, 2011 at 5:30 pmNerds are cool though! 😀
I’m sort of glad that I didn’t have to worry about any summer assignments either. If I did, I wouldn’t be able to spend my off days reading either. I’m sure when the fall semester gets here, I may not have as much time.
TAEchelon
July 26, 2011 at 10:55 pmWow! Your daughter is beeeeeeautiful! And the side of your son’s head is very handsome (lol). Anyway, that’s a great idea! Not only you getting your kids into the wonder of reading but finding your way back to it as well. It’s a great pass-time, educator and (when needed, as most girls often do) an excellent distraction. The book club idea sounds neat too. Unfortunately I always get too wrapped up several books at one time to devote my attention to any one the club might be focusing on. I’m currently reading “Mad Kings and Queens” (again), and a book on myths and buddhism, both of which I can’t remember the name of right now. Anyway, Happy reading!!
Raely B.
July 27, 2011 at 5:32 pmLOL! Too bad you’re not able to join, perhaps you may be able to at a later date. Your entries are always so well composed. It’d be nice to here what you’d have to say in a literary sense.
Myths? I LOVE myths. Especially Greek mythology! I did my high school term paper on The Underworld.
Alicia @Mommy Delicious
July 26, 2011 at 11:47 pmReading is definitely one of the ways that I relieve my stress. To be able to get lost in the pages and places of a good book just takes me away for the moment and takes the stress away. So glad that you’re able to find solicitude in reading. Heading over to read your previous post now.
Kim
July 26, 2011 at 11:49 pmYes reading can be therapeutic. I started reading for that purpose earlier this summer. I enjoy reading but I mostly read things for school (which is also very enjoyable for me). I’m glad you found that as a way to cope with what you’re going through. I wish I had the time to join a book club but with a quarter filled with research and methodology I don’t think my brain can hold anything else lol. If you need kid’s books I suggest you try the dollar section at target or any dollar store. You can find great books for kids there for cheap. I created a library for my kids and I as well and it’s great to get the kids interested in reading at an early age. I hope it all gets better for you. I’ve been there. I’m only an email away if you want to talk. Take care.
Raely B.
July 27, 2011 at 5:34 pmI wish I actually had time to join a book club with regular meetings, finger foods, and live discussions, but this is the next best thing to it. I read a lot about computers when semesters are in session, as they pertain to my major. But, it’s nice to be able to get lost in pages of fiction.
Thanks for reaching out. That means more to me than you know, Kim. 🙂
Kiara
July 27, 2011 at 9:10 pmVery true, reading is a nice way to calm down. It takes your focus from the outside and draws you into its contents. I think it’s great that you want to get your kids more involved with reading, since the world seems to be all about video games and TV nowadays.
Currently I’m reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett. The movie comes out next month so I thought I’d read it before I go see it. I’m also reading The Great Gatsby for school, its alright. Just old British Literature.
Raely B.
July 27, 2011 at 11:24 pmI’ve heard about The Help. I’ll probably check that book out since the books are so much better than the movies, IMO.
DaenelT
July 27, 2011 at 11:51 pmAs a mom and a librarian, I’m so happy that you’ve decided to create a library at home. I’m even happier to read that you’re also taking advantage of the public library and planning to share your love of books with your kids. People (meaning the powers that be that keep cutting services to libraries) don’t seem to understand what I vital service libraries provide.
TheSeventhDistrict
July 28, 2011 at 7:18 amI have so many books on my nightstand. I finished A Belle in Brooklyn, and currently reading The Shack, Classy, Angel Laws of Blogging, and of course…The Bible 😉 Lemme go back and catch up on some older posts
Jenny
July 28, 2011 at 7:54 amI read your previous entry before commenting on this one. I am sorry that you and the other person had to go through what he put you two through. That was very horrible of him but I am glad that you are moving forward and keeping your head held high. I hope for the best for the other person as well.
I love reading. I don’t think I could join a book club because they tell everyone what book to read, and what if I couldn’t get into the book like others? I rather read the types of books I like, such as fantasy, mystery, young adult… so forth.
Right now, I’m reading Lynne Ewing’s Daughter of the Moon series: Night Shade #3. I never finished the series because I didn’t want to buy the hardcover back then. Now, I’m starting from the beginning so I can remember what happened in the first two books.
Mimi
July 29, 2011 at 12:14 amReading is truly therapeutic. I make it a point to read at least one book a month. In July I read Rush Home Road by Lori Larsens and I read Summer in the City by Candace Bushnell. I’m heading over to Nerd Girl. I hadn’t picked a book for August I think I will join in the book club.
I take my son to the library every Monday. He enjoys picking out books. There is something so fab about perusing the aisles and looking at and smelling the old books.
Gerri
August 3, 2011 at 9:19 pmI’m not reading anything right now! I have a book I checked out weeks ago (that I’m sure is overdue now) that I even took on vacation with me recently that I haven’t touched. In my pre-child life, I read all the time. Now I can’t find the time to shower and eat, let alone read! Once I finish this degree, though, maybe that will change. And then she’ll be older…