Creative Inspiration

It's always exciting to find a new book, especially from the library. I came across these two awesome reads lately and had to share:

I Love Dirt!: 52 Activities to Help You and Your Kids Discover the Wonders of Nature by Jennifer Ward

This book presents 52 activities divided into the four seasons. It introduces children to nature's wonders through simple (and free) activities, most which can be done in the backyard. I also thought it was a good reminder for adults to get out and enjoy the beautiful world around them, especially during this time of year.

The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections by Amanda Blake Soule

(speaking of children) "They know how to be creative. They know it with every ounce of their being - it isn't conscious or rational. It is simply who they are. Until something stands in their way, they will be creative."

Some of my favorite activities and ideas from the book:
1. Bulletin boards and inspiration wire to display inspirational pieces, artwork, photos, etc.
2. Pattern for a felt pencil roll (to store colored pencils, pens, markers, etc. for on-the-go). There is also a really awesome (but more complicated) pattern for the pencil roll in Joelle Hoverson's Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts .
3. Ideas for choosing "The Best Toys" includes questions like "Is it beautiful?", "Is it simple?", "What is it made of?" I really liked this section, since it seems like kids have too many toys (most of which are cheap, create clutter in our homes, and don't activate the imagination).
4. A chapter on connecting with the family has some good ideas about celebrating birthdays and holidays.

Peace Like a River by Leif Enger

In another effort to organize a family book club, my mom has chosen Peace Like a River. I don't know anything about this book, but I've heard good things. I do know the title was taken from the hymn "It is Well with My Soul" by Horatio Spafford. This is only the first verse and I've never actually heard the song, but I think it sounds pretty (it's a great message, anyway):

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' by J.K. Rowling

I haven't been reading much lately, since my number one priority is sleep. But I did find a little time for a light and entertaining book, and now I have joined the ranks of Harry Potter Freaks (sorry to all you freaks out there). After years of being harassed for not reading the series (by education teachers, peers and students) I finally finished book number one. I actually started Sorcerer's Stone years ago, but life just got too busy and I didn't think the book was that great, so I put it down. For some bizarre reason, Chris and I started watching all the movies a couple of months ago, and I found I was just a tad bit hooked. I look forward to the next book, Chamber of Secrets and I am really excited for the movie, Half-Blood Prince, to come out in November...which may be my last hurrah before baby comes.