This year I, like many others, set out to read more. It was one of my favorite hobbies growing up and into early adulthood, but as motherhood began almost six years ago, I found myself reading less than I’d like. I’d usually complete several books per year, mostly Christian motherhood books with a few novels sprinkled in here and there.
When I created my reading wish list this year I tried to vary it more and included homeschooling, classics, creativity, and theology selections. I started the year out strong and quickly remembered how much I absolutely love reading. Then in the spring I found out I was expecting, went through a couple of months of intense morning sickness, and devastatingly lost our daughter, Lily. The whole experience and the immense grief, understandably, really put a halt to my reading for awhile.
In my healing, I’ve picked up reading again, and I’m truly thankful to have such an enjoyable way to fill my time. I decided to create a list of the books I have read this year. It’s not as much as I thought I’d complete when I set my goal, but I’m absolutely ok with that. I hope you gain inspiration and maybe find a new book or two to try out as well.
Completed Books
My Antonia – I stumbled upon this one at a used bookstore and was instantly reminded of how much I loved reading it in middle school, so I decided to give it another read. I loved it just as much as an adult. It’s the story of an orphaned boy and an immigrant girl growing up in Nebraska in the 1800s. Willa Cather used beautiful language and imagery that inspired me to embrace the slow and simple.
Big Magic – This book is so commonly recommended in creative circles! I started the year out seeking inspiration in my photography work and really enjoyed reading this one. If you’re looking to grow your creativity and explore new ideas, this one’s really good.
For the Children’s Sake – We dipped our toes into homeschool part-time last year while my boys were attending a mother’s morning out program twice per week, but I knew 2023 would be the year we’d go full time! I’m greatly inspired by Charlotte Mason’s philosophies (read more about her homeschool ideas here) and wanted to learn more about her principles. I loved reading this one as I researched curriculum and planned out our homeschool year.
Habits of the Household – A must-read for any Christian family! I found myself highlighting this book constantly. Over the last couple of years my husband and I have felt called to simplify our lives and routines while drawing our children to the Lord in our day-to-day, and I love that this book gave practical ideas for seeking God as a family through habits and routines.
Let Me Be a Woman – I’ve only read a couple of Elisabeth Elliott books, and I really enjoyed this one. She explores the Biblical call to womanhood, not just motherhood, as she writes to her daughter.
Mere Christianity – One of my favorites of the year! I love C.S. Lewis’s works and the rich theology he explains. Every morning when I’d read it I’d stop and read to my husband passages that stuck out to me – there were a lot and now my husband can almost say he’s listened to the entire book. 🙂
Harry Potter 1-4 – I read them all as a kid and hadn’t actually read the series again since (even though I’ve seen the movies multiple times). I’m reading through the entire series this year because it’s been so much fun!
Whose Waves These Are – This was a book club pick that was so refreshing and enjoyable. A Christian fiction novel that jumps from WWII to (almost) present day, this book was just a delight.
Current reads:
Held – In the wake of our loss, I’ve been seeking resources to walk me through grief from a Biblical perspective. This 31-day guide is written specifically for women who have experienced miscarriage and still birth. It’s been a helpful read that’s helped me feel less alone and encouraged to continue seeking the Lord in this time.
Mothering by the Book – I’ve just started this one, but I’m excited to keep reading it! I love learning from Jennifer Pepito’s podcast and am inspired by her views on motherhood and homeschooling.
Teaching from Rest – When I started researching homeschooling, reading blogs, and listening to podcasts, this book came up over and over for the homeschooling parent. I read it last summer and plan to read it yearly at the start of the homeschool year. It’s phenomenal, and I highly recommend it if you homeschool or are considering it.
On my list to read:
Mallory Bell Photography is a Huntsville, Alabama family, maternity, and newborn photographer creating timeless imagery to document every stage of motherhood and family, from bump to baby and beyond. I capture your family honestly and candidly so you’ll always remember exactly how the little details felt. In the rush of life, it’s easy to overlook the ordinary moments. I aim to document the love between you and your little ones in a joyful, heartfelt way so your legacy will live on for generations to come.
Contact me to inquire about documenting your family’s story.
