Francois de la Rochefoucauld said "The only constant in life is change." The older I get, the more I realize just how true that is! Here are a few books about life changes.

If I ever wanted to say no to something, my mother always expected be to have a reason ... a good reason. When I Say No I Feel Guilty, by Manual J. Smith taught me that it is okay to simply say "No", that's it, that's all, no reason necessary. What a relief!

There are now lots of books out on how to simplify your life, but by far the best one, to me, is the first, Simplify Your Life: 100 Ways to Slow Down and Enjoy the Things That Really Matter, by Elaine St. James. No broad, sweeping commands here, her suggestions are reasonable, and easily customized for various life styles.

My folks and siblings were highly motivated, high achievers, and extremely intelligent. I was quiet and reflective, did not seek the limelight, was not fond of a loud party or crowds. I had a hard time fitting in. Not until 2002 did I find something that explained this to me. The Introvert Advantage: How to Thrive in an Extrovert World, by Marti Olsen Laney was a revelation! Again, there are several books out on this subject, but again, I like this first one.

Everyone has their own life changing moments and/or events, some are by choice, others from circumstances beyond their control. Heart in the Right Place: a Memoir by Carolyn Jourdan tells how Carolyn left her job as an attorney on Capitol Hill to return home to the small community in Tennessee to help out her father (the only doctor in the area) when her mother has a heart attack. She comes to see her folks in a new light.

Jenna Woginrich, author of One Woman Farm: My Life Shared with Sheep, Pigs, Chickens, Goats, and a Fine Fiddle, made the choice to change her life. She goes from a high stress, mostly indoor life to one based on farm work and seasons, and the responsibility of caring for her animals. She takes joy in everything from the birth of lambs to a house warmed by a wood fire.

Embrace change!

Reading Hermit With Dog