Daisy May & Me: Inspiration and positive living

"I would rather walk with a friend in the dark, than alone in the light."

- Helen Keller

When I think about epic friendships in history, I think about Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan.

Many know the basic facts about their story, but some of the greatest aspects of their friendship are not as well known: the empathy, camaraderie, and service Helen and Anne shared.

Sometimes, we are bad listeners. 

I think it's a skill we've lost a little because we are so busy all the time and we have the ability to be constantly distracted. 

But I'm sure we can all think of at least one person in our lives that is a good listener. 

What is it about them that makes them a good listener, do you think? Do they do anything special? 

Are YOU a good listener? 

Are you born a good or bad listener? Or is it something you become? 

We're talking all about listening on the blog today, but I have some questions for you over in our stories too so head on over there!

Tag a friend that's a good listener and tell me what makes them a good listener. I'd love to hear! 

This month, we're talking about something that only recently has been taken more seriously.

Mental health. 

We have the perfect book club pick that focuses on mental health awareness and our relationship with our mental health. 

The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller

Natalie is a seventh grade, quarter-Korean girl whose mom is struggling with depression. We'll follow along as Natalie works through an interesting science project, her feelings about what's happening in her family, and the internal battle she faces with how much to share and how to make things okay again. 

I read the majority of the book within two days, so that should tell you something!

It's 292 pages and the audiobook is 5 hours and 12 minutes.

Reading level is grades 3-7 (ages 8-12). This one can be read to younger kids, but some things may need extra explanation. 

This book really is an incredible illustration of mental health and it's perfect fit for a family book club. I think you'll have a pretty amazing discussion with this one. 

For as long as I can remember, my family has played games together. I know I did a lot of things with friends on the weekends, but we also always played a few games together too. 

Now that I have my own family, that obsession has not stopped. We are constantly looking for new games to add to our shelf and we love introducing friends and family to new games. I look forward to playing games with my own children as they get older because I hope they enjoy the opportunity to spend time as a family. 

While it's possible that there will be fighting, or crying, or even cheating, games also bring conversation, laughter, and joy. They can help with critical thinking and can even help kids (and adults...) to understand and develop sportsmanship. 

If you're tired of the classic board games we all know and love, I have a few suggestions for you in this blogpost!