Good morning, me hearties.

Today is August 21st and it’s 54 degrees outside my window.  In years past, the heat and humidity would be so high that early morning weeding sessions in our garden would end as soon as the sun hit our skin.  But today is drizzling and gray and I won’t be out in my garden.  In fact, I didn’t want to get out of bed.  And yes – we stayed up too late watching three episodes of the Lost from the first season.  Bad decision.  Bags under my eyes.  Grouchy demeanor.

The good news – the kids aren’t up yet, so I have a moment to write this post.

School has started (or will be starting) for our kids and this means busy family schedules have also begun.  In a few weeks the older students (middle school – high school) will be given their reading assignments.  The load is often a heavy one.  Even though they are busy, our mission should be to continue to encourage them to read for pleasure.  This might mean they put down the 737 page novel they were reading this summer and pick up something lighter instead.

Having to read a book your teacher chooses for you is a completely different experience than finding something yourself.  I’m not saying one is better than the other.  Guided reading will provide a deeper experience of literature.  But reading just for the heck of it should continue to be important.  This includes YOU!  Monkey see, monkey do.

Let your standards down and let them read those comic books, graphic novels, on-line adventures, outdoor magazines – wherever their interests lie.  If your child loves football, get him/her a sports magazine.  Do you have a crafty kid – there are dozens of craft magazines.

The point is, try to keep up the idea that reading is fun.  Reading is pleasurable.  Make some hot chocolate or tea and have the whole family sit in the living room and read for one hour.

And don’t forget that your local library is a great resource.  If you still haven’t been to your library, get your booty moving and get a card.  It’s free.  You can even get cards for your very small children – it’s fun and they’ll feel more motivated to use it.

Next Monday: Girlfriend Picks (aka what my pals read and enjoyed this summer)