Weekend favorites - November 13
* * *
And now for some reading material I loved this week:
My friend Devon has a way with books - meaning she reviews a ton of them and knows what she is talking about. So I'm making my way through this list of books that help make math fun, because my son is very much into math lately, and I want to encourage him.
I have a lot of respect for women who escape abusive relationships, knowing how difficult it is. When the woman has a child, it's exponentially more difficult. This essay was wrenching but incredibly hopeful.
Many, many women experience postpartum mood disorders during and after the birth of their children. This post at Mashable rounds up the emotions very well.
This family has a little boy with the rare disease Sanfilippo Syndrome. Take a look at their Facebook page to learn more about them and their valiant fight.
Allison Hendrix uses beautiful words to talk about how we can all help each other raise good, compassionate, supportive kids. I loved this post.
Another lovely post on teaching kids compassion from the inimitable Angie Kinghorn at Bonbon Break had my nodding my head - YES.
Oh, Rachel Macy Stafford. You are a light in the darkness,
always. "The next time you walk into an intimidating setting—whether it’s a
party, a church, a school, a classroom, a club, a fitness center, a meeting, or
a social event, clasp your hands together. Say to yourself: 'I am not alone.
Someone else is nervous too.' Then look around. Perhaps now you know someone
else feels uncomfortable, you’ll see someone else holding his or her own hand
too."
"It seems to me that when we inhabit ourselves - when we say, this is who I am in all my flawed humanity - we are taking a step toward being most real." Great words from Dani Shapiro.
* * *
Reading: The Martian. The cover caught my eye when I was at the airport this week, and I have not been able to put it down. When I was in high school, I was fascinated by Physics, but didn't do exceptionally well at it. When in college, I signed up for Astronomy, thinking I was studying constellations and found... more physics. So although I may not be good at it, this book brought out the inner science geek I never knew was in there. This is Andy Weir's FIRST BOOK. So impressive.
Also reading: Science of Parenthood's new book! It will launch offically on November 17, and I have a copy in my hands now, courtesy of a book launch here in Austin this week. Norine and Jessica have put together a funny, relatable, easy-to-enjoy book about parenting in all of its glory, in photos, words, and graphics. #BoogieWipesTour
My WeMontage wall hanging arrived today! I can't wait to put it up in my son's room. So easy.
My friend James runs the company, and his customer service on the creations is second to none. It's a very good gift idea covered by Martha Stewart, Yahoo, and CNET, and the Today Show ran stories about it twice this year. Here's a video to learn more:
Love, Kristin