Nonna's Reading Guide to a Simpler Life, 2022

Photo by Emile Perron at Unspalsh.

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Enough is More

Most of the world has less than we have. We have more things, more food, more activities - just plain more.  And most of my life I've held to the idea that less is more, but with reflection this is not completely accurate. More is still more; many who live with less -- because they do not have the same privileges I experience  -- hunger for the opportunities to have more in their lives. 

Less is not more. Enough is more.

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With a Humble Heart

It would seem the idea of simplicity in life - enough is more - is irrelevant when pandemic disruptions, recent UN climate change reports, and the attack on Ukraine leave us -- and our children -- feeling anxious at best. But purposefully choosing, practicing and sharing simplicity improves the resilience of our souls in the face of serious difficulties.

So, how do we use the idea of simplicity in life to encourage our children, to give them hope and develop a sense of resilience in difficulties? We teach them to value people, animals and nature more than things, as well as the differences between people!

Simplicity is not just doing nothing, but experiencing and engaging the world with a humble heart - a heart and mind ready to see wonder in the natural world and in each other!

Parents' Simplicity Credo

Love people & admire our differences.
Respect animals.
Wonder at the magnificence around us.
Use things.

Anything else leads to heartache.

And this month I have some wonderful books for your children which will help you to talk about why the world needs each one of us to give more love and admiration, more respect and more wonder -- and what happens when we do not live this way.

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Love People. Respect Animals. Wonder at Nature.

Whether sweet or silly, these books are perfect for reinforcing the value of placing people, animals and nature before things.

Click on a book cover to see Nonna's full review.

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Admire our Differences

All great stories to encourage children to appreciate the differences we see in others  - without being preachy!

Click on a book cover to see Nonna's full review.

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In all humility, I hope sharing these books with you and
your kiddos will bring peace to your hearts,
Nonna                  

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