Spring has sprung

I guess it's official. In Arkansas, it is spring. The daffodils in my yard are blooming and we've had several day of 70+ degree weather. This week is even my spring break from both work and grad school so I'm enjoying some time at home. Yippee!!!

I would really like to encourage all of you to participate in the Spring Reading Thing. A few years ago my friend Denise can tell you that I rarely read fiction. I was all about self-improvement. After she and two other friends said, "Lisa, you really need to read Poisonwood Bible," I gave up and tried fiction after a LONG hiatus.

I couldn't put it down. I stayed up WAY into the night to read Poisonwood and then I was on a hunt for something equally good. I'd forgotten how much good, quality fiction can teach us about ourselves and the human condition. Next was The Red Tent (also amazing) and soon after that I tackled East of Eden. Denise and I eventually started a book club in our little SE Arkansas town.

So, all you moms out there -- pick up a book that's not about the pros and cons of breastfeeding or bottle feeding or about time management with toddlers in tow. Pick up a great work of fiction and feed your heart and soul. If you need some suggestions, try the list a couple of posts down. There are quite a few I haven't read myself, but the ones I have are all REALLY GOOD!

If you're taking up the challenge, drop a line and let me know how it's going. What are you reading? What touched your heart? Do you agree or disagree with author's worldview? Who's your favorite character? Why?

And don't forget -- you don't have to BUY the book to read it. Support your local library while improving your own mind! Oh -- and they always need volunteers. Maybe you could start a book club of your own!