I know a lot of you are still on summer vacation. Mine is winding down as a report for my first professional development next Wednesday. So for any of you who still have some time off and are hitting the sand, the lake, or even sitting around the house wanting something relaxing to read, here are some of my favorite summer reads.
When You Look Like Your Passport Photo, It's Time to Go Home by Erma Bombeck. I first read this book in high school and was so entertained by the different vignettes. Back then travel seemed like a distant dream so it was my way to live vicariously through the author. And for the record, Erma is the master of introductions. It wasn't until I was older that I realized she had the best introductions ever. Seriously. And it's a humor book so when your travels go awry (like delayed flights, sitting next to obnoxious people on the delayed flight, seeing your 77 year old father walk through the Punta Cana strip mall sans shirt because "I want to get a tan" or same man barging into the Punta Cana airport immigration office, or watching him cut 150 people in the customs line so he can go to the bathroom) it's nice to know you're in good company.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling. I bought this as an impulse buy while waiting for a plane. You have to understand I adore the author and enjoyed realizing that I'm not the only one with those fears.
Why Not Me? Same author, same style writing, and the last chapter is a must read, especially for young girls. She saves the best for last and helps women understand how to validate and own their successes. This pic is one I took while on vacay last month. I waited until the last minute to buy the book for my vacation (don't talk to me about e-books, I know they exist but have a hard time enjoying them as much as a physical book) so it took 4 stores and 2.5 hours in northern Kentucky to actually procure the book. And it was totally worth it.
When the Game is Over It All Goes Back in the Box by John Ortberg. Love this book because it integrates personal stories, faith, and priorities. Not to mention the allegories to various games. I anticipate my family reunion every year because I love to go and play various board and card games with my cousins. Every time I read it something new speaks to me and I'm confident it will do the same for you.
If You Want to Walk on Water You've Got to Get Out of the Boat by John Ortberg. This is by far my favorite beach read. I always feel a little extra something reading this book sitting on the beach. The book is about Peter walking on water out to Jesus. I have carried this book with me on five different trips and always pick up a couple of grains of sand and place them in the book. Makes me smile when I read it at home. Read the other chapters, be sure and read chapter 7. As one who does not like to fail, this chapter speaks to me every single time. This book encourages me in my Christian walk and I highly suggest it to anyone who loves Jesus and wants to grow in their faith.
How about you? What's your go to books? I'd love to hear!
