Trying to Get Back into Reading as a Habit

I used to be a voracious reader, especially as a child. Since I got married I don't read as much because I prefer to read at night, in bed. My husband does not like the light on and so we have to compromise a bit. I've tried to use a small book light but it's just not the same. One of my problems is I also love TV. A lot. I'm trying to break myself of the habit of going to TV instead of reading. So in light of some other goals I'm trying to set for myself, I'm starting with a reading goal. Eight books in 30 days, that's attainable right?

Let me also say that this month includes my sister's birthday, my mom's birthday, Christmas, and New Year's. Oh, and my husband is coming home from being away for almost 2 1/2 months.

This 30 days will start on Thursday Dec. 10. I'm going to work on compiling my 8 books. I want to vary the titles with some good and meaningful titles and a couple sheer entertainment. Comments welcome!

Christmas Cake Virgin...

This is our third Christmas in a row in the US. In the beginning of our relationship, we had been going back to Ireland every other year. In more recents years it just hasn't been feasible for us. My husband is fine with that because it's such a tough time of year to try to see everyone we want to visit.

That being said, I know he misses many of the Christmas traditions from his family and from Ireland. One of the things he loves most is Christmas Cake and Christmas Pudding. Honestly, I find it revolting. But it's not just about me, is it? So this year I'm going to try to make a Christmas Cake for him. I've emailed some of his aunts and got a recipe and I guess this weekend, I'm going to dive head first into what can only be called an experiment. I really hope it works out!

Things that make you smile...

I love when you have one of those moments in life that every time you think about it, a smile creeps across your face. I'm having kind of blah day today until I thought about this occurance.

Last year when visiting my in laws in Ireland, my husband and I were taking a walk around Swords Castle. We were staying with his sister in Swords and we just went out for rare (in Ireland) sunny afternoon walk. Swords Castle is situated in a park in the town centre. My husband was curious about the restoration work, so we explored and climbed to the top. It was a great afternoon.

As we were leaving, we saw a young mother pushing a stroller with a toddler following her. The young girl strayed from her mother and pushed open one of the large gates into the castle. She leaned in and shouted, "Shrek? Princess Fiona?" I burst out laughing. It was so sweet and innocent. It just made me smile. And it made me smile even more that this little girl was able to encounter castles on her afternoon walk.

Here's to being single again, at least for a bit!

I dropped my husband off at the airport today and won't see him for seven weeks. Yep, that's right, seven weeks. It sounds awful but it's child's play compared to the five months he was gone earlier this year. The twist is he comes home for three days only to leave again for three weeks. So, I'm trying to be a bit more positive and productive with my "single" life this time around.

And, the thing is part of me kind of doesn't mind. I mean there are some benefits: I get the whole bed to myself, I don't have to look before sitting on the toilet seat, I can read in bed with light on for as long as I want, I don't have to suffer through History channel military marathons....

Hey, I'm trying to be glass half full about this! What do you look forward to when you have time by yourself at home? Any ideas to keep me busy?

Must Read

We've all dealt with self-image issues from time to time. I working on trying to get back to taking better care of myself in many areas. I've been inspired by Sarah over at Sarah Gone Wild. She's worked through a lot of tough stuff and accomplished so much. She rocks! And I get at least one good laugh per post, so I love reading her blog.

This recent post on health and weight is a must read. I whole heartedly agree with everything she said. I won't even try to say it better, just go over there and read this post.

Caution, this blog will resume soon...

I've been totally slacking on this blog. I've decided to rededicate myself. I know, you're waiting with baited breath.

3 years ago.....

So, I'm at home tonight fighting a sinus migraine and allergies and lounging watching House Hunters International on HGTV. The couple featured is looking for a house on Grand Cayman. Aaah!! Three years ago, my husband and I were honeymooning on that very island. What I wouldn't give to be back there right now. Oh, I'd love to have my husband home with me as well. Oh, well duty calls!