Three books I’m perusing this month (I use the term peruse because it’s a bit of a challenge for me to focus on reading). There’s a theme here — two books are about slowing down, and one for slow cooking.
First, a book I had on my Christmas wish list…Almost Amish by Nancy Sleeth. Here’s a brief description of her book:
“Have you ever stopped to think, Maybe the Amish are on to something? Look around. We tweet while we drive, we talk while we text, and we surf the Internet until we fall asleep. We are essentially plugged in and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s time to simplify our lives, make faith and family the focal point, and recapture the lost art of simple living. Building on the basic principles of Amish life, Nancy Sleeth shows readers how making conscious choices to limit (and in some cases eliminate) technology’s hold on our lives and getting back to basics can help us lead calmer, more focused, less harried lives that result in stronger, deeper relationships with our families, friends, and God.” Added bonus is the cover art — look at her apron!
Second, no coincidence, the next book was written by her husband Dr. Matthew Sleeth. I absolutely love his book 24:6 A prescription for a healthier, happier life.
“In 24/6, Dr. Matthew Sleeth describes our symptoms, clarifies the signs, diagnoses the illness, and lays out a simple plan for living a healthier, more God-centered life in a digitally-dazed, always-on world. Sleeth shares how his own family was dramatically transformed when it adopted Sabbath practices and helps readers better understand how their own lives can be transformed – physically, emotionally, relationally and spiritually – by adopting the 24/6 lifestyle.”
We did a brief study of this book in my United Methodist Women’s group. I truly found myself craving that one day of the week where I could focus on just being quiet. My church small group has decided to study it for the next few months so I am looking forward to a more in-depth look at his advice.
Third, one of my favorite cookbook authors Gina Homolka and her Skinnytaste Fast and Slow: Knockout Quick-fix and Slow Cooker Recipes. I have her first book Skinnytaste Cookbook: Light on Calories, Big on Flavor. I have to say every recipe I have tried has been yummy and well received by my picky teen. All her recipes include nutritional information and Weight Watcher points.
Follow Gina on Pinterest where she posts recipes. In fact, she also has a Skinnytaste Meal Planner a 52-week journal to help you organize and plan your meals…something I really want to try to do in the new year.
Check out my Books Worth Reading on Pinterest. What’s on your stack this month? I always love good read suggestions.
Hospitality is in my DNA. I founded Home with a Twist, a daughter’s twist on her mother’s traditions, in memory of my mother to celebrate her life and the gifts she shared with me. Mother loved to celebrate life’s occasions – big and small.
