Thursday, October 27, 2011

Reading is More Than Words...



While weeding out Jonathan's bookshelves for our upcoming garage sale, I found many books that brought back such precious memories.  I used to spend hours reading to my son.  He loved books, and they were a bridge to his world in so many ways.  When I read, he calmed and focused.  He allowed me to cuddle with him.  We shared laughter and love.

The other day Jonathan said, "Books are boring".  Since he used to be passionate about reading, this statement made me feel sad .

I realized it had been quite a while since I had read to him regularly, and determined to change that.  Tonight I picked one of his favorite humorous books from long ago, and also a chapter book (plan was to read a short, funny, book from his younger days and then a chapter each night on something more age appropriate.)

What a wonderful time we had!  He remembered and talked of these books as if they were long lost friends.  He showed great episodic memory!  His eyes danced as he shared memories of cherished books he loved. He was delighted with our new project.

So, we're reading again.  Sharing.  Loving.  Making memories.  I'm hoping that this will re-establish his love of books and will also find new connections on our journey into imagination.  Actually I forgot how much I missed our times together!