Erin - Operations Director

Just a Woman Raising Two Boys and a Husband While Working Full-Time, No Big Deal

One of my most favorite things to do is read with my kiddos (two energetic boys). My goal for my boys is 20 minutes a day of reading. Sometimes we have to get creative to hit that goal, and sometimes we don't hit it at all, but reading is a regular part of our everyday life. I encourage you to make it part of your everyday life as well. I hope you enjoy these books that my boys and I have loved, and let me know if you figure out the trick to having it all.

School Reads

Kiddos are back in school and we are reading a variety of books, some assigned and others selected individually.  Here's a few titles we have read so far.

<p>My youngest and I have enjoyed reading this book, and are very much looking forward to the next title in the series!</p>
<p>My youngest and I started this series over the summer and we are excited to get our hands on the next book in the series.</p>

Birthday Books

My youngest celebrates his birthday at the end of July (along with Harry Potter). This year I asked for his help to rank a few birthday-themed books, and here are the results.

I was not surprised to see Grumpy Cat at the top of the list. The last page was my son's favorite.

Summer Series

While we enjoy our summer fun, I plan to keep my boys reading, and book series help me do just that.  Here are a few, some we've started, some are on the list to be read next, but all should be fun with a dash of humor.

<p>These books are written as the emails between a nephew and uncle, are quick reads, and very imaginative.</p>
<p>My son started this series at school, so I picked it up as well. I love to keep up with what they read in class and chat about the books at home.</p>
<p>This book is set in summer, so I'm especially looking forward to reading it soon!</p>

Whatcha Readin' ?

As my boys have grown, many things have changed, including the books they read.  I often like to pick up the book they are reading in class and read along on my own.  It's given me a broader reading list, as well as an opportunity to engage my kiddos in conversation.  Here are a few of our recent reads.

Summer Reads

Here are a few titles my boys have been enjoying this summer!

Make Happiness Happen

Sometimes life isn't what you are expecting. Creating your own happiness and taking on an attitude of gratitude can go a long ways to lift your spirits as well as the spirits of those around you.

I stumbled upon a print copy of this book and was so excited to find the audiobook available!

Mysteries of History

Following a visit to Pearl Harbor, my oldest son became very interested in learning more about historical battles. He read through all sorts of books on a variety of topics, and here are a few.

Serious Fun With Series

The best (easiest) way to keep my boys reading is to get them hooked on a series. Here are a few we've enjoyed this year.

First Grade Fun

This fall my youngest son has been making new friends at school and finding new favorite book characters as he continues to develop as a reader in first grade. Here are a few we love!

While Spongebob isn't my favorite, my son sure loves him.
We have really loved getting to know Elephant and Piggie! They are a hoot!
When reading this book, you must do a "tough guy" voice for the tree; it's required.

Universe of Stories

Check out these space-themed books this summer, and register you and your family for the Summer">https://www.midcolumbialibraries.org/summer-reading-challenge">Summer Reading Challenge for a chance to win!