The year before I got pregnant with my son, now nearly 3, I read more than one book a month. One of those was Steven King’s “On Writing,†memoir. At the end of the book he shares a list of the books he’s read . That’s when I started my own list: “Books I’ve Read.†I write down every book title I complete.
Because of the challenges and time constraints balancing work and family, reading is something most parents abandon. This was true during my first pregnancy, I was preoccupied with what was happening and the impending arrival of the baby, and I read zero books (pregnancy books don’t count). Eventually, I began reading again.
People often ask, “How do you find time to read?†Sometimes it’s challenging, but for me it’s what I do.
How? One page at a time.
I steal away time to read anywhere I can; when my son is in the bath, I sit on a stool by the wall; in the morning when my husband might be getting my son dressed, I’ll read one page; instead of doing the dishes, I’ll read a few pages.
We have quiet time in the living room every evening before bed and put on soothing music. No TV. This is the time that my son winds down from the day. He plays, and I usually read. I also try to read a few pages before I go to bed at night, but most of the time I get through only two pages, lean over and turn the light off and go to sleep.
It may take longer to finish a book than it used to, but this year my list says I’ve completed almost 8 titles. Not the highest number ever, but I think even Steven King would be proud.
Related:
- What I’m currently reading: “The 19th Wife“
- Steven King’s “On Writing” book — even if you aren’t a fan of King, it’s an excellent book about writing.
- My recommended books
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ABOUT ALICIA: Alicia is the founder of Balancing Motherhood.com. Last year, she managed to stay sane while completing an MBA, working full-time, blogging, and still baking amazing birthday cakes — all while raising a young family at home.
Melanie says
One of my favorite ways to unwind is to read! And, it is harder to find the time with a family, but it is certainly worth it when I do find the time.
Happy Thursday!
Melissa says
Before Nate was born, I would read nearly 100 non-work/non school books a year. I was often just shy of the 100 book per year mark. Now, I’m woefully short of that goal. But as he gets older, I find that I can work my schedule to the point where I can find at least 30 minutes to read.
Melissa says
Ooooh, I also just followed you on twitter. I hope that you would be ok with that and with following me.