As the new year got started, I cashed in some gift cards to buy a ton of books. I am the daughter of a librarian so my love for books is almost a birthright. I would love to share a few of the books I really enjoyed.

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
Dr. Seuss

For couples, I think Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson is a great read. Dr. Johnson wrote the book specifically for couples of all sorts to gain knowledge and resources about how to “love better” and create lasting connections; the real goal when we allow ourselves to become vulnerable with someone, right? The book is written for laymen. If she uses therapy terms, she takes time to explain what she means. I appreciated both the history lesson about how love has changed over the years and the real life examples of how couples have gone through their own troubles and come out better on the other side. If you are experiencing relationship tension or just want to strengthen that bond, pick up a copy! It never hurts to learn more.

I also purchased The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown, Ph.D., LMSW and think it would be great for individuals that are desiring a more “wholehearted” way of living. She focuses on learning how to live knowing that you are enough, even with your imperfections, as well as striving to dive into your life while letting go of what you think you should be. I was only a few pages in when I had a major light bulb moment and have since recommended it to friends. Just like Johnson, Brown does a great job of discussing the research that led to her understanding about “wholehearted” living. I take pleasure in a chance to look at life with a new perspective and possibility to grow, maybe you will too.

And I can’t leave out the children. I didn’t purchase this book during the most recent round, but it’s a mainstay in my library. Have You Filled a Bucket Today by Carol McCloud is a great book to teach kids how to be nice to people and enjoy how it feels to spread happiness. It allows the child to understand an often difficult idea by imagining the filling of of a bucket with nice deeds. Sometimes even adults need a recap on this lesson.

“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” Charles William Eliot

And of course, if after reading these books you feel like you still need more help, I would be happy to meet with you, because I care!