So I never set out to read any parent books. They just sort of happened. Prior to going on our trip to Paris last month I had been hearing about the book about French parenting through an expat mom's eyes called Bringing Up Bébé. If there's one thing I noticed in my short jaunt to Paris, it was indeed the chemistry between the women and their children. I found it interesting how cooperative and behaved the kids were that I'd see around town. So naturally, I had to start reading this book when I returned home.
Then there's the book that my friend Alexis blogged about that really struck a chord with me called Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids. I like to think that Eric and I go the way of simplicity when it comes to our kids, but there's always something to learn so I was super anxious to read this one too! It reminded me of the documentary Eric and I saw called Born Rich about children of the "insanely rich," directed by Johnson & Johnson heir, Jamie Johnson. It showcased the exact opposite of simplicity. It was fascinating (and a little bit sad) to watch these kids who literally have everything at their fingertips still struggle with feeling lost in life. There were definitely lessons to be learned from this film for every type of family.
So tell me, has anyone read either of these books? Seen the documentary? What did you take away? Oh and fyi, Alexis is hosting a virtual discussion of Simplicity Parenting on her blog May 7th if you'd like to join in. I'm sure the discussion will be great. You know what they say ... it takes a (virtual) village.
P.S. I did a Mother's Day gift round-up over at The Post Social. Check it out!
