Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Currently Reading: The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar

 I am currently reading, "The Space Between Us." As I began reading the book, I immediately assumed that the book's setting is in Africa. How shocked was I that I was really wrong. The book's setting is in India. Even though I am not far off into the plot of the story, I do believe that this book is going to leave some thought provoking questions. Perhaps, I should start taking notes like several of my fellow followers.

The Confident Woman by Joyce Meyers

When my coworker noticed how distraught I was becoming about my divorce, she suggested that I read "The Confident Woman" by Joyce Meyers. I am so glad that I read this book. Many of the chapters spoke to me, especially some of the examples presented. I remember thinking or doing them. I never could figure out why it took me so long to finish reading this book.  Now I know exactly why. I had to finish this book today... just in time for the beginning of a new year, 2011, and a new life for me.

Broken into two parts (confidence and fear), "The Confident Woman" is a must-read for any woman desiring to reach her full potential, while changing negative hinderances. For me, the chapters on Fear (seven) held the most impact for my life. Several things I desire to do and pursue, I have not done because of my fear of failure. Two things in particular include working for myself full-time with my image consulting business, Sensational Image Consulting INC, and opening a clothing boutique.  Using scriptures to correspond with her text, Meyers' writing style speaks to you and tells you exactly what you need to hear.  I know I have read what I needed to hear and will be using this book to motivate me towards living out my full potential.

Monday, December 27, 2010

Happy Holidays

Perhaps, the most rewarding aspect of my visits home is the bundles of books I always manage to bring home. For my Christmas gifts, my parents gave me a box of books, which included James Patterson, Nora Roberts, Reader's Digests Collections, as well as Wayne Johnston's, book, "A Custodian Paradise." I believe that I will enjoy the books. I started Johnston's book, and surprisingly I may just finish it. I am shocked. Just from the cover of the book, I wouldn't have chosen it. However, the rule is, "Don't Judge A Book By It's Cover." I am hoping your holiday is amazing.  During this last week of vacation, I plan to read a book a day. Tonight, I am determined to finish "Confident Woman" by Joyce Meyers. This book is overwhelming with life lessons and information you know and have heard, but you just need a refresher course. Happy Reading.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Room By Emma Donoghue

Emma Donoghue’s book, “Room,” is the story of triumph for a mother and her son, Jack. The main character’s, Jack, Ma, and Old Nick, have a life in the beginning of the story, which mimics the tragic story of Josef Fritzl, who imprisoned his daughter, Elizabeth Fritzl, in a cellar for 24 years and raped her. Living for seven years in a 11x11 room, Jack’s “Ma” provides Jack with a close as normal life. However, once Jack becomes five, the world he knows changes. Written from the perspective of five year old Jack, "Room" can be a hard read. The dialect used is very confusing in the beginning, but once you push through it and become accustomed to it, this book is beyond amazing. Having three children of my own, “Room” highlighted how important spending time with my children was and how important considering their point of view is. Jack’s “Ma” explanation of everything was astonishing because she ensured that regardless of the subject matter, Jack should completely understand. Possessing themes of isolation, self-reliance, and family, “Room” is a must-read, especially if you have children. 

Lessons Learned: Starting a Business

I finished "Lessons Learned: Starting a Business." This book, published by Harvard Business School Press, contains essays from the world's top leaders on starting a business. From Sir Jerry Robinson to Robert Johnson, you are enlightened and motivated by the simple language and readability of this book. I particularly like the quick synopsis of each lesson at the end. These "takeaways" reiterate what you should have learned from the lesson. I was bless with this book from a twitter follower. This book is amazing. The compact size can be easily place in a purse and used as a reference guide or a motivational tool. Such a great read.

Discovering the Joys of Being in a Book Club

Heaven and Earth Grocery Store Reading has been a sanctuary for me for as long as I can remember. Being surrounded by books provides unimagi...