Dear friends,
Can you believe how quickly summer is flying by? It feels like I blinked, and suddenly September is here. I hope you’ve had moments of fun, laughter, and a little bit of sunshine on your face.
For me, July was such a gift. I stepped away for a Sabbatical and let myself really play—something I don’t always give myself permission to do. The highlight was spending time with my 23-year-old daughter, who was home from grad school. We had long talks, bursts of laughter that left us wiping away tears, and plenty of just-being-together moments that I’ll tuck away as treasures.
I wanted to share a snapshot from my RESTorative rest time, since life can get so full we forget what restores us.
For me, food is always part of that joy. I’m a total foodie at heart, so I decided to finally try some of those beautiful salad recipes I had been saving on Instagram for months. And let me tell you— they were every bit as delicious and refreshing as they looked.
Add in lots of good books and hours outdoors under blue skies, and my soul feels like it got a long, cool drink of water.
Here are four of my favorite Summer reads, and why you might enjoy them.
- Good Soil by Jeff Chu: This tender, beautifully written memoir feels like a balm for the soul. With honesty and vulnerability, Chu weaves together grief, identity, faith, and the earthy rhythms of farming into a story that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable. Blending spiritual reflection, nature writing, and cultural insight, his lyrical storytelling draws you into the simple yet miraculous work of tending the land—and in the process, invites you to reflect on rootedness, transformation, and the quiet ways belonging can grow. I loved reading this right when I woke up as I sipped on a latte.
- The Girl Who Baptized Herself by Meggan Watterson: This was an enlightening perspective for someone like me who grew up in a traditional Christian home. The Girl Who Baptized Herself speaks to anyone seeking spiritual stories that affirm inner power, autonomy, and authenticity. Its blend of ancient narrative and modern apprenticeship resonates deeply with readers drawn to feminist spirituality, personal transformation, and theological reimagining. Whether you’re exploring Thecla’s life for the first time or seeking a deeper sense of spiritual agency, Watterson offers a compelling, heart-stirring path forward.
- Experience Jesus. Really. By John Eldredge: This was a refreshing read– a heartfelt invitation to move from knowing about Jesus to genuinely experiencing Him in everyday life. If you’re feeling spiritually dry, overwhelmed, or trapped in the relentless pace of modern life, this book offers a tender, doable path back to presence, clarity, and deep communion with your Savior. Another one that went great with my morning latte.
- Sacred Contracts by Caroline Myss: Reading Sacred Contracts felt like sitting with a wise guide who helps you make sense of why you’re here and what your life is really about. I took this book slower as there was much to absorb. I enjoyed how she invites you to see your experiences—not as random events— but as part of a larger spiritual agreement your soul made before you came into this world.
May you each take time for your own RESTorative rest and give yourself what your soul needs.
Cheering you on!
Note: Some of the links above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.