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Hi Love,
I almost walked right past her.
She was tucked beneath a tree in the library reading garden, knees pulled in close, completely absorbed in a book.
The afternoon sun filtered through the branches overhead, scattering little patches of light across the grass.
I stood there for a minute before she noticed me.
She was somewhere else entirely. Inside a story. Inside her imagination. Inside that beautiful place children seem to enter so effortlessly.
There was something about the scene that made me stop.
A child. A tree. A book. A quiet afternoon.
And yet somehow it felt like I was looking at something increasingly rare.
Just being fully immersed in one moment.
I stood there... watching the branches sway. Listening to the occasional rustle of leaves overhead. Feeling the pace of my own thoughts begin to slow.
And I found myself wondering when we decided that every moment needed to be optimized.
When did we stop trusting the magic of an afternoon spent doing only one thing?
When did we forget that sitting beneath a tree with a good book might actually be enough?
Maybe that’s why libraries have always felt a little sacred to me, because they protect something the world keeps trying to rush — wonder, curiosity, stillness. The freedom to disappear into a story for a while, and return a little different than before.
Eventually she looked up. The spell broke. We gathered our things and moved on with our day.
But the image stayed with me. A child beneath a tree. A book in her lap. A whole world waiting inside the pages. 📖✨
Lately I’ve been thinking about how many of my favorite memories involve books — curled up in a reading nook, stretched out beneath a tree, listening to a story on a long drive, getting completely lost in a world someone else imagined. Even now, books remain one of my favorite forms of self care. The right story has a way of slowing my thoughts, expanding my perspective, and reminding me there are countless ways to see the world.
Maybe that’s why I still believe books are a form of magic, because they help us return to our lives with fresh eyes. ✨
If you’re looking for your next read, I’ve gathered a few of my favorites.
These are the books I’ve returned to, recommended, highlighted, cried through, and carried with me.
Whether you’re craving personal growth, a beautiful story, or simply a cozy afternoon with a good book...
I hope you’ll find something you love.
✨ Explore my favorite collections:
🌿 Stories That Feel Like Home
I’d love to hear from you, Love: What book made you completely lose track of time as a child? And if you’re reading something wonderful right now, I’d love to add it to my list.
With So Much Love,
Catherine 💖
🌸 P.S. Haven’t unwrapped your FREE Kickstart Your Calm Morning Guide yet?
It’s a simple and beautiful way to start even your busiest days.
What book made you completely lose track of time as a child? And if you’re reading something wonderful right now, let us know.
👇 Drop your reflections in the comments, or hit reply and share. I would love to hear from you!
Love Notes From Soul Care Moms…💌
“I’m really glad I found this community. The wisdom you share and the support and shared experiences of everyone here are so helpful to being a better mom and individual.” -Valerie H.
“You probably do not hear this enough but thank you for cultivating such an encouraging, uplifting space. It is truly a joy to be a part of this community!” - Stacie A.
“I love that you allow space for every feeling and truly show that every emotion is valid! Thank you for holding this space to remind us of self love!!! You always know just what to say to fill my soul!!” - Faith D.
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Everything shared is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. I share in the hope that it will help you feel empowered and inspired. Always seek the guidance of a trusted health professional for your unique journey. You are loved.
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