My 100 Book Challenge

Once upon a time ... I was a voracious reader. But then I grew up, got a job, a husband and a family. In a word: Responsibility. I stopped reading for pleasure because I didn't think I had the time. I could probably count on one hand the number of books I read each year for myself. I'm constantly reading to my kids, and while I enjoy Dr. Suess as much as anyone, my mind goes a bit mushy after the 12th reading of "One Fish Two Fish" in a day.

A few weeks ago, I bought bookshelves and finally unpacked my boxes of books in the basement (after living in my house for 2 years). Oh, the memories! It was like saying "hello" to old friends. I can remember where I was or how I felt when I read each book. And I realized how much I miss reading -- how big a part of my life it used to be. Books have helped to shape who I am and how I think.

So I've issued myself a personal challenge for 2010:

I will read 100 books by the end of the year.

And I'm going to try to break out of my comfort zone. I usually stick to the classics. But I want to dip my toe in the pool of modern literature, nonfiction, young adult novels, short stories, plays...in addition to the classics. Unfortunately I cannot afford to buy 100 books, so I'll rely heavily on my local library. But I'd like to add at least 1 book a month to my personal collection.

I don't have gobs of time, so this will certainly be a challenge. I quit my job last year to stay home full time with my kids. But at ages 5, 2 and 10 months, they keep me on my toes! I also volunteer as a leader for my church youth group. However, I think it's important for my kids to see me reading, to see me excited about books. I want to fill my house with good books not only for myself -- but for my family.

Let the reading begin.