Ten Lessons to Transform Your Marriage by Gottman

I've learned about Gottman and his research extensively in school, read his book The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, so I was excited to read this new book- Ten Lessons to Transform Your Marriage. It started like his other book and I felt kind of like I was getting a review of the last movie to enjoy the sequel. However, I felt like the book never really took off of it's own. Nothing felt especially new to me and even after I renewed it three times, I couldn't find the energy to finish this book. Have I learned from Gottman? Yes. Do I think about his four horsemen anytime I find the urge to criticize character or speak with contempt? Yes. But one of his books was enough! Sorry, I didn't even finish this one!

A Leader's Heart

I truly believe we are all leaders in our own spheres, whether it is among our families, our communities, or even just as masters of ourselves. That's why I was so excited to read A Leader's Heart from John Maxwell. I received a free copy from BookSneeze and was so impressed with the quality of the book. It's absolutely beautiful and the first page I opened to gave me something to think about. I have different roles- woman, wife, mother, church leader, and they all must be balanced. Everyone I work with or serve is important and different. Reading through this book and taking the chance to reflect on the ways I can improve as a leader was wonderful. I can't wait to follow through the yearly diary and see how I can be better each day.

Max Lucado's Out Live Your Life

You Are Special is one of my favorite children's books so I was excited to read this newest book from Max Lucado, Out Live Your Life. I recieved a free copy from BookSneeze and started reading it immediately. It's a quick, easy read but also thought provoking. I love all the stories he shares about ordinary people making a difference. Sometimes, between all the housework and responsibilities I have with my little kids it's hard to feel like I can make a difference, but this book made me feel like I really can. I love how he explains that Jesus, the ultimate example, was humble and diligent. He worked and served and we can too. God has given us gifts so we can love and serve those around us, like His Son did. Lucado also shared the story of Mother Theresa and said, "None of us can help everyone. But all of us can help someone. And when we help them, we serve Jesus." And that is what it's all about. I loved this book and appreciate the chance I had to reflect and think about how I can apply these important principles to my own life!