It's time for the monthly Nightstand carnival at 5 Minutes for Books.

Here are a few books I completed recently:

The Kitchen Boy: A Novel of the Last Tsar: I read this thanks to Carrie's recommendation, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  Fascinating historical fiction--highly recommend it.

Could It Be B12?: An Epidemic of Misdiagnoses: Since finding solutions for health issues through my diet, my interest in how food affects our bodies has grown. This book was interesting and practical. After reading it, I am convinced that some neurological issues I had in my 20's were related to B12 deficiency, and I am currently taking B12 sublingually to get my numbers higher.

Shakespeare's Lady is another interesting historical fiction title. I'll be reviewing this book at 5M4B soon.

In my pile:

Sarah's Key: I'm probably one of the few who hasn't read this. I've had this on my list for quite a while, and I am finally getting to it.

The Mood Cure: Another nutritionally related book that I am looking forward to reading.

All That I Am: After reading the 5M4B review, I am looking forward to this novel.

Bringing Up Bebe: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting: Saw this mentioned on Facebook. Although I generally try to get my parenting wisdom from the Bible and books that are true to its teachings, this title caught my attention, and I am looking forward to reading it.

To see what others are reading, head over to 5 Minutes for Books today!

Labels: Books

Alas, it seems my blogging has been reduced to monthly updates! I hope to do better (but I'm sure I will never resume the almost daily updates). What's been going on around here? Most recently, we have been hit by the flu! My Best Girl was the first victim. We didn't suspect flu (weren't the flu shots supposed to keep that from happening?), so by the time we found out that she did have it, she was forced to suffer through it. When I started feeling sick, I got Tamiflu almost immediately, and we did the same for my Favorite Boy. Although neither of us felt dandy, we avoided the sufferings experienced by my Best Girl. We are all thankful to emerge from the grips of the flu!

Prior to spending several days in a fever-induced stupor, we enjoyed several activities. Not too long ago, my Best Girl and I attended the circus. Although we didn't think it truly qualified as the "Greatest Show on Earth", it was fun, and we enjoyed the evening together. And, what event at the arena would be complete without an overpriced glass full of colored ice?


My Favorite Boy recently participated in a speech contest. When the assignment was first announced in class, he came home and said, "I want to do well enough to get an A, but not well enough to be chosen to participate in the county contest." As he moved forward with the assignment, however, his attitude changed for the better. He was selected to participate in the county contest, and he came in fourth in his group. We were very proud of his effort! As we adults know, public speaking can be frightening, and we are so glad he chose to face his fears.


My Best Girl finished up her basketball training league. On the final day, they participated in some scrimmages, and she was thrilled to score a basket. Of course, the trophy is always the best part!



My Favorite Boy also finished his regular basketball season. His team did not fare well, but he is excited to participate in an upcoming tournament on the 4th grade select team. Baseball and softball season are about to begin, and my Best Girl is participating in Flat Stanley the Musical with a local youth theater group. I enjoyed musical theater so much as a child, so I am excited for her to have this experience. We're having a great (mild) winter, and we are looking forward to a fun spring!

Labels: Fun, My Best Girl, My Favorite Boy