A must-read for parents

Philippa Perry's, The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read, and Your Children Will be Glad That You Did, says it all in the title.

I wish I had read this book earlier in my parenting journey.

It is full of helpful, self-reflective advice for many situations. For example, it explores the roots of what irritates you as a parent. My children do some things that I wonder why these things bother me so much. This book makes you look for the answers in your own childhood. Now when my children do these behaviors, I can recognize the emotions they bring up in me and realize my kids are not purposefully trying to annoy me. A lot of the author's advice can also be applied to relationships in general, not just parenting. I appreciate the real-life, relatable examples that Perry provides throughout the book. Add this book to your summer reading list no matter what age your children are.

Finding Meaning and Inspiration Everyday

I was digging through my book collection to find an engaging, relaxing holiday recommendation. I was thinking of a curl up by the fire type read that you can’t put down. However, when I came across The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman, I knew I had to share this one. It is one of my favorite books. Full of shorter daily reads, it is not a long read by the fire. It is better suited on the nightstand to read before you start or end your day. I love to gift books, and The Daily Stoic makes a fantastic gift for anyone 14 and up. I can think of a couple people I could give this book to this holiday season.

This bestseller contains 366 days of meditations and wisdom from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Epictetus, and more. Each day of the year, you get insight you can relate to current life. Anger, success, joy, and finding the meaning of life are all explored in ways that make you reflect and think about life on a larger, much more meaningful scale.

I had this book for a few years and love to reread it. I find a different perspective every time, depending on what is happening in my life. I like that the reads are short, but I usually spend a few more minutes thinking through the meaning and its application. It amazes me how there is something every day I can use. The Daily Stoic is part of my toolbox that keeps me centered in life. It inspires resilience, living life to its fullest while bringing peace and calm to the chaos. For even more inspiration, get connected with Ryan Holiday on social media. His posts are engaging and insightful. Enjoy!

Confidently Raise Teen Daughters

I have already posted about relating to your teenage son, but as you know, I also have a teen daughter. Mother-daughter relationships can be complicated. I want better for her. I want her to be stronger, more confident, and able to go fiercely, unapologetic into the world to accomplish all her dreams and goals. The closest I have come to an instruction manual for teenage girls is Lisa Damour’s book Untangled.

From Damour’s book, I have learned how to reasonably set boundaries and have tough conversations that my daughter understands and respects. All the essential topics are covered, including the infamous eye roll and how to handle it, romantic relationships, mental health, and transitioning her safely to college.

Damour’s wisdom and expertise have helped me build a solid foundation with my daughter that will last a lifetime. This would be a dream author I would love to have lunch with and ask so many questions. I can’t get enough of her advice and expertise. I would bring my book with all its highlights and handwritten notes. This is an excellent read for both moms and dads.