What I've been reading lately

Had to plow through Free Range Kids: How to Raise Safe, Self-Reliant Children (Without Going Nuts with Worry) in two days because I'd ignored it for nearly a month, then when trying to renew it, I discovered that it was requested & I had to return it to the library. Great book & it's made me realize another effect of getting rid of our TV: we're exposed to a lot less scare-mongering & sensationalist news stories about crimes & accidents involving children. Well worth a read--get Free Range Kids from the library or bookstore asap! (& thanks to Dr. Lisa for recommending it to me)

Part of the reason I've been ignoring my library books is because I've got a mounting stack of books I've been sent to review. Whole Foods To Thrive: Nutrient-Dense, Plant-Based Recipes for Peak Health has been occupying my time when I'm not writing. I'm enjoying it so far--Brendan Brazier makes a good case for cutting down on or eliminating animal products from your diet for environmental reasons. Also in the pile, just arrived: Celebrating Beginnings & Endings, by Paula Pugh. Just from a quick flip through, it looks to have some lovely ideas in it for celebrating life's milestones in a meaningful way without breaking the bank.

On the topic of not spending much money, I read a good post on living frugal without going crazy over ever penny, Pick yer battles, basically.

Also more or less on the topic of money, an analysis of the American (but could be applied north of the 49th too) attitude toward stay-at-home moms. A rich married woman staying home with kids=saint. A poor single mom staying home with kids=money-grubbing welfare cheat. Hat tip to Julia for posting this article.

I'll finish off with one that's light on the reading & seriously hilarious. I think I might have to try one of these myself.

Painting by Chris McMahon, of Deviant Art