Books, Books Everywhere!

Reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes. When the boys were tiny I did housework after they went to bed and then I curled up and read. I might read into the wee hours of the night. In those hectic years I needed the nourishment I got from those books.

When it comes to non-fiction books such as something Joyce Meyer, Rick Warren, or Charles Swindoll wrote, I have a notebook that I jot down my thoughts regarding my reading for that particular day. The ever present notebook was with me during Scripture reading too.

In fiction, I love a well-turned phrase. I make note of it and listen to see when the next time I hear it is. Everyday that the boys were small, either Terry or I read Dr. Seuss to them. I have to admit that I found a lot enjoyment in those treasures too.

One year I put a road map up in the laundry room. (The only map I had was Colorado) The assignment for the summer was for each of the boys to read for points. A preassigned number of points paid for a trip to the swimming pool, skating rink, or spending money. A point was given for each page read in their library books. As the boys read they charted their points (miles) on the Colorado map. They could travel anywhere in Colorado, taking any road they wished. I have to admit that I did learn a lot about where the different little towns are located with this exercise!

That summer I believe our youngest son read every Curious George book known to man! He was just beginning to be able to read a complete book and he stumbled a lot over the words so I had him sit on the bed while I lay down to listen.... well...er... nap. I don't think I ever heard the last half of any Curious George book that summer.

Terry read "Farmer Boy" from the Little House on the Prairie series to the boys each night at bedtime when they were too old for Dr. Seuss. I sat with my knitting and the boys lay on the floor or couches listening. He changed the names of the characters from Laura, Mary, and baby Carrie to Larry, Mary and baby Carrie. As he dozed off while reading, he changed up a lot of the plot. So sorry Laura Ingles Wilder. I think if any of the boys read that book as an adult, they wouldn't recognize it at all!

All I can say is ...Books are fun!