Water for Elephants

12 Novels I Still Think About

539.

That’s how many books I’ve read since I started this blog in 2011! I absolutely love reading, so I thought it would be fun to start a series sharing the books that have stayed with me over the years—from novels I still think about to Christian books that have shaped my faith, memoirs I couldn’t put down, parenting books that influenced me, nonfiction that changed how I think, and more.

Novels I still think about graphic

I decided to start with 12 novels I’ve read since 2011 that I still find myself thinking about. Whether because of unforgettable characters, an ending I can’t shake, or a story that changed the way I see something, these books have stayed with me long after I turned the last page.

From historical fiction and literary fiction to romance and contemporary novels, each of these stories left a lasting impression. For each one, I’ve included the publisher’s description, followed by a few of my own thoughts about why it earned a spot on this list. I hope you’ll discover your next great read!

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Life lately & my nose

Besides driving through a random snowstorm, life has been good lately!I think I have played board games like 3 nights in a row this past week. I played a game called Elfinland at a college game night and Taboo on NYE at church and on Sunday (@ home, w/ family) because the power went out for 4 hours due to a rain and windstorm. [College student game night was a lot of fun!][My family + Jimmy all huddled around the candles and played Taboo and charades until the power came on.]

I have been staying up late (and subsequently sleeping in!) to watch some amazing movies and eat delicious food. [Goldfish and Water For Elephants… a good match.]SCALLOPS!

I have also been using Starbucks gift cards that I got for Christmas like none other. I guzzle peppermint mocha’s like it’s my business. 30 seconds later….Gone.

I’ve been scaring Jimmy. He is afraid of my biceps getting too bulky..I wore a cap-sleeved dress on Sunday and it didn’t fit my shoulders. Ugh.

He is also afraid of bowling with me.You see, I like bowling, but I just get so mad/frustrated if I don’t do well! I have a love-hate relationship with bowling for sure.

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My nose has been hurting lately.I had to have my nose almost completely reconstructed in 2009 after a car accident.[Post-surgery 2009.]

For about a week, I have been experiencing bleeding within my nose and i’m pretty sure my septum (the area between the nostrils) has shifted to the point where it is causing a lot of pain + it has affected my breathing a little. I’m going to call my surgeon today and get an appointment to have it looked at, just to make sure everything is okay. :/ Bleh.

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Have a great day!!