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January in the northern hemisphere, especially if it gets arctic-level cold like it did last week, is the perfect month to hibernate – reading books, listening to podcasts, and bingeing on shows. In other words, January can be an introvert’s paradise. Count me in.
In no particular order, these have been my fave things this month:
Grit. I heard about this book from a number of sources, so I finally borrowed it from the library. According to the author, Angela Duckworth, success in life is more about grit than innate talent. She defines grit as “the power of passion and perseverance.” A psychologist, teacher and scientist, Duckworth explains all about grit – what it is, what it isn’t, how to obtain it, and how to foster it in others. I confess that I didn’t get to read the entire book before its due date, because life and all. After reading a few chapters, I quickly skipped to the chapter on parenting for grit. It’s too late for me, but maybe my kids can get some grit! The case studies are both inspirational and practical, and I have come away with a good theoretical sense of what grit is all about.
With God in Russia. Fr. Walter Ciszek has captured my heart with this book and its sequel He Leadeth Me. I can’t recommend these books highly enough, especially if you are like me and in desperate need of perspective. Fr. Ciszek’s story as a prisoner in Communist Russia is an incredible testament to the power of the human spirit and true abandonment to God’s will.
Heightscast. A good friend recommended this to me. Heightscast is a podcast produced by The Heights, and all-boys school in Potomac, Maryland. The podcasts are all related to the parenting and education of boys. My husband and I listened to quite a few episodes during our road trip to Tremblant, and we have liked every single one. I especially enjoyed the one on Parenting: Patience and Optimism. If you have boys, I guarantee that you will get a ton out of this podcast.
Schoolhouse Rocked. I’m uber excited about this documentary about homeschooling in America. The producers are hoping to get it released in theatres later this year, and you can check their website for ways to support them. The website itself contains a wealth of videos, articles and podcasts, all created to serve homeschooling families. I was thrilled to see that Sara McKenzie from the Read Aloud Revival, and S.D Smith, author of the Green Ember Series, are both featured. What a beautiful labor of love!
Brilliant.org. This website has tons of fun STEM puzzles and problems. They have a free and fee-based version, and every day a problem arrives in my inbox. My 11 yr old son is loving it!
Poldark. My guilty pleasure. Season 4 was finally available at my library! I’ve enjoyed this season more than the previous one, which got just too dramatic and unrealistic for me. Yes, yes, I know that this is a fictional drama series, but still. Anyway, I’ve enjoyed seeing more of pure Drake and tortured Morwenna, kind Dr. Enys and frivolous Caroline, and even conniving, love-to-hate George Warleggan. The Cornwall scenery is enough to keep me coming back for more. And it’s British. Enough said.
Last but not least, here are some posts which have made me think:
Rise and Grind: On the Pathology of Work
The Re-definition of a Superwoman
Dear Parents, be Patient on your Long Walk to Heaven
Relating to Parents with Fewer (than 9) Children
Goodbye January! You have been good to me.
