Sadly, my summer is just about over. These past few weeks have flown by and soon I’ll return to work and the kids will return to school. I know I shouldn’t complain about how quickly summer seems to go – I should be grateful to have the summer off – yet still it’s never quite long enough.
Here are some of my favorite things from July. (some links are affiliate)
First, some podcasts recommendations:
I love to listen to the Don’t Mom Alone podcast on occasion because she has interesting guests that pertain to parenthood. I don’t know if you relate to this or not, but some days I feel like I’m doing ok in the parenting department, and other days I need all the help I can get. Episode 35 was a really great reminder about the importance of hiding God’s Word in our heart. I’m trying to do better with Scripture memorization and I was encouraged by this podcast. Also, one of my favorite podcast guests was on Episode 34. David Thomas is a counselor for boys in Nashville and he has such wisdom. I’d encourage you to research him, order some of his books, listen to him on other podcasts. He’s great!
Another great podcast this month was the Happy Hour podcast with Derwin Gray. Derwin is a former NFL player who currently pastors Transformation Church outside Charlotte, NC. On this episode, he and Jamie discussed how to love our neighbors well. I’m been listening and leaning into lots of different perspectives and this episode was really encouraging and educational.
Next, some things to watch:
One of our favorite shows on Netflix is Somebody Feed Phil. I’m pretty sure I’ve recommended this show in the past but Season 5 just released so I’m recommending it again. Our favorite episode of the 5 part series was the Maine episode and now I want to go to Maine so I can eat all the lobster rolls.
Next – If you have kids, you’ve probably heard of Dude Perfect, a group of five men who specialize in trick shots and crazy youtube videos. Well, I recently took Jonah and Vivienne to see them live, and they did not disappoint. It was such a fun family-friendly event – if you get a chance to see them, go!
Some things to read:
I’ve been reading like crazy this summer. It’s a sickness, really, the way I devour book after book, not getting anything else done. Here are a few I’ve really liked this month.
First, The Making of Biblical Womanhood by Beth Allison Barr. Ok, I have lots of thoughts on this book. And while I don’t agree with everything she writes, I did find the history of biblical womanhood, complementarianism and egalitarianism, quite interesting. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you decide to read it!
Next, Lessons in Chemistry. This book was a fun, easy read set in the 1960’s about a woman chemist, her family, and the biases against her. The characters were quirky and surprisingly lovable and I had several laugh-out-loud moments, which rarely happens. I would definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for something different to read.
I’m a huge John Grisham fan but am playing catch-up with some of his older books. I’m currently reading The Whistler and am really enjoying it. If you like mystery and intrigue mixed with a little lawyering, this might be the book for you. It reminds me a lot of some of his older books like The Firm and The Pelican Brief.
A few honorable mentions:
We recently took a trip to Branson, MO, with my parents and, although the weather was horribly hot, we had so much fun! We played at Silver Dollar City, explored the town of Branson, and saw JESUS at the Sights and Sounds Theatre. If you’re looking for a family friendly vacation, check out Branson!
These weights: I’m a wimp when it comes to weight lifting, but I love these weights. They’re comfortable in my hands and I don’t get blisters like I have in the past with other weights. I use these several times a week and I can definitely see a difference in my scrawny arms.
That’s it for July! What are you loving this month?