Review: I've Been Thinking...

Summary: A book of reflections for those seeking wisdom, guidance, encouragement, and inspiration on the road to a meaningful life

As a prominent woman juggling many roles, Maria Shriver knows just how surprising, unpredictable, and stressful everyday life can be.

In this moving and powerful book, she shares inspiring quotes, prayers, and reflections designed to get readers thinking, get them feeling, get them laughing, and help them in their journey to what she calls The Open Field–a place of acceptance, purpose, and passion–a place of joy.

I’ve Been Thinking . . . is ideal for anyone at any point in her life. Whether you feel like you’ve got it all together or like it’s all falling apart–whether you’re taking stock of your life or simply looking to recharge, this is the book you will turn to again and again. Spend the weekend reading it cover to cover, or keep it on your nightstand to flip to the chapter you need most. Like talking with a close friend, it’s the perfect daily companion—an exceptional gift for someone looking to move forward in life with hope and grace. -- Pamela Dorman Books 

I have had some pretty big changes in my life these past few months. My daughter went off to college and I started working after a 15 year hiatus. If I'm being entirely honest, I've been in a bit of a funk; and sometimes I don't feel like I'm doing anything well. My house isn't as clean as I like. I don't cook as much as I should. I'm not home when my son gets home from work. I don't work out as regularly as I used to. And so on and so on....

I'm sure I'm not always easy to live with. In fact, I've been told so much by my husband and kids. I'm grumpy and depressed, and most importantly, I've been having a lot of self-doubt. I realize it's not a good thing for me or my family. And that's why this new little book by by Maria Shriver called I'VE BEEN THINKING... REFLECTIONS, PRAYERS, AND MEDITATIONS FOR A MEANINGFUL LIFE is so important to me.

I'VE BEEN THINKING... is a wonderful inspirational book on how to lead a more meaningful life. I've always respected Ms. Shriver as a journalist, mom, and philanthropist; and I think she has a unique way of using her life experiences to help others. I first read I'VE BEEN THINKING... in one day when I was home all by myself for a weekend; and since then, I've referenced it when I need a little pick me up.

I'VE BEEN THINKING... is a collection of essays collected from Ms. Shriver's e-newsletter, The Sunday Project. (If you aren't already a subscriber, I highly recommend it. The email is a treat every Sunday morning for me and helps start the week of on the right track.) These essays have a variety of themes including family, motherhood, the power of women, gratitude, faith, forgiveness and more. Each essay is just a few pages long and includes a prayer at the end, so the book is perfect to use as a daily devotional of sorts.

Since I'm coming clean in this review, I might as well tell you that I have a horrible time with keeping perspective. The little things in life drive me crazy, and I rarely look at the big picture and appreciate how very much I do have. I'VE BEEN THINKING... has helped me with that. Just hearing that someone like Ms. Shriver has similar feelings makes me realize that what I'm feeling is not uncommon, and her words of wisdom remind me to be grateful every day... and most importantly to not be so hard on myself. I will admit that it's not easy for me and I'm definitely a work-in-progress; however, I'VE BEEN THINKING... has helped me and will continue to help me. This book will sit on my nightstand for a very long time!

I'VE BEEN THINKING... is one of those books that you want to share with every woman in your life. There is so much advice and wisdom (and even humor) between the pages of this small book, and you will want to reference it over and over again. Highly recommended and it's the perfect Mother's Day gift idea!

Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy of this book.