**Disclosure: I did receive a copy of this Chicken Soup for the Soul volume to bring you this review. All opinions are 100% my own. No compensation was received for this post.
For some reason this year, it seems like my daughter is taking longer and longer to leave school. As she gets older, she lingers more and more with friends. So, I end up having a bit of time to relax in the car while waiting for her. I bring along a book so I can sneak some reading in. Often, I grab a volume of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Recently, I have brought along Raising Great Kids.
Admittedly, I was not too enthused to read this volume initially. Not sure why, but I wasn't feeling it. However, I quickly learned how enjoyable and relatable the anecdotes are. Some of the stories resonate with something I have experienced myself. Others provide me with a true appreciate of how kind and generous we really can be. Yet others give me ideas for my family!
One particular anecdote reminds me of many in my family. In this anecdote, the author's stepfather served in the Navy in WWII. While the author was aware of his stepfather's service, he was unaware of how many times his stepfather earned marks of valor until stumbling upon an old chest. Like many in the military, his stepfather performed heroic acts without thought of praise and never really talked about them. This is true as well of the military men in my family. They served their country and helped their fellow servicemen without thought of praise. It has long been instilled in me to do something because it is the right thing to do, not because you are seeking recognition. A beautiful story.
Several in the book highlight the importance of ditching responsibilities from time to time to just play with the kids. It is really nice to read accounts of both parents and kids of warm memories of ditching it all to play ball or jump rope. Memories of a messy house fade but memories of having fun stay! Great inspiration especially with warm weather ahead!
I also learned some things to incorporate in our family--like a gift of special coupons for the kids including a game day or the ability to stay up an hour past bedtime. Fun! In another story, a family created a diary to list the good deeds the family accomplished each day, The charge was to perform a good deed for someone that was entirely unexpected--not something you normally do.
Really, another good volume. So many wonderful stories that provide a nice pick-me-up and some inspiration just when you need it!
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