Reading is to the Mind What Exercise is to the Body ~Sir Richard Steele

I think the title pretty much sums it up. I LOVE a good book!
I just finished Gilead, by Marilynne Robinson. I am sorry to say that I wasn't as dedicated to reading it as I should have been or would have liked. It is not one of those books that you can simply pick up and escape reality, though it's storyline does provide that; it's as though you are in the very center of the mind of a small town preacher, with all of his struggles, joys, thoughts and even misunderstandings. I am not very articulate when it comes to accurately describing the essence of this book, but I am glad to have had the privilege of reading it. I guess that means you'll have to read it yourself.
I love how a good book can inspire, uplift and increase one's understanding, emotions and faith. "Seek ye out of the best books..." as we are taught- I think this book can be classified as a best book.
One more thing...I have always loved finding a good quote on any particular topic. Here's one that's applicable to this topic of conversation:

The happiest people are those who think the most interesting thoughts. Those who decide to use leisure as a means of mental development, who love good music, good books, good pictures, good company, good conversation, are the happiest people in the world. And they are not only happy in themselves, they are the cause of happiness in others.

William Lyon Phelps

HAPPY READING!

"Energy and Persistence Conquer All Things" ~ Benjamin Franklin

I have been trying to think of a good way to describe how things are going here- particularly for Sam in his classes. He is frustrated because one class seems very unnecessary... and yet he goes on. He may think that a particular subject is worthless at this stage in his education, but he will stay up until all hours of the night just to make sure he knows how to do what is required. He is so committed to this vision he sees of where he wants to be in the future, and not even a terrible class can sway his motivation. So, I just wanted to brag about him, and thank him for the wonderful example he is to me about not giving up. So many dreams are easily forgotten because we don't take that first step into the water and just TRY. I am very guilty of that myself- and I am thankful for the motivation you give me Sam, to just keep going. It WILL get better, or easier- it has to. :)

As for Grace and I- we are finding educational activities to fill our days instead of going to the grocery store, or Wal-Mart (Heaven forbid!) to walk around. Mondays or Tuesdays we do the grocery shopping; Tuesdays is story time at Pottery Barn. We went for the first time today, and it was great. Grace didn't necessarily pay attention to the story, but she was intrigued by the occasional bright picture, and sat contently in my lap with her board book and a cracker. Every other Friday the public library does story time also, so we are planning on that also. The weather is cooling off- so it's easier to want to go outside in the afternoons; and when it's hot a lot of women gather with their kids in the lobby of one of the apartment buildings and let them run around while we visit. That has actually proved very motivating for Grace since that is where she got frustrated enough to crawl. Now she's curious about everything! And we love it! :)

One more thing- A very good friend Tiffany Evans' father, passed away from a long battle with cancer. I was so sad to hear that; I can only imagine the heartache she must be feeling. But just so you know Tiff, he has left an indelible impression on many who don't even know him- just because I know you. You said he was always happy, always positive, no matter how bad it got, and you are the same way. Thank you for the great example of faith and happiness that you are to us. And, I love you, Dad. I love you, Sam.