Hold On, But Don’t Hold Still

Book by Kristina Kuzmic.

 I haven’t experienced a lot of the things Kristina has: I’ve never lived in a war zone, emigrated to a new country, been sexually assaulted, gotten a divorce, or lived in poverty. I’ve also never been on a TV show or rubbed shoulders with Oprah.  Despite our dissimilarities, however, we have some really important things in common: we are both women of faith, mothers who love their children, wives who appreciate their husbands, and people who believe goodness can change the world. This book is part memoir, part parenting tips, and part life coach. It is often hilarious, at times heartbreaking, and overall hopeful and encouraging.

Some of my favorite things in the book:

—The story about pulling herself out of depression by finding a way to serve others, even though she was living on food stamps at the time. I loved everything about those Wednesday dinners!

— Resolving arguments by switching sides and having to argue the other person’s point of view. She uses this with both her kids and in her marriage.

— Random act of kindness dates with her kids and husband.

— The respect and grace she exhibits in not naming names, not complaining about her ex, and not speaking ill of anyone. She is the epitome of classy in that regard.

— Letting kids take ownership of their school projects.

— The way you talk to yourself and others should be the way you want someone to speak to your child.

I listened to the audiobook and it was really good! Just a couple mild swears. Her language is refreshingly clean.