Another year in books

Yes, some people still read. As in books. I do not understand people that say "I don't read books." And I am extremely heartened by the studies that have come out this year saying that reading paper books is better and by the fact that the AAP finally verbalized what all of us have known for some time: that kids should be read to every day. Reading is just good for you. Not magazines. Not Huff Post articles. Books.

However, I do realize that my volume is a little atypical: this year I read 45 books, including 11 non-fiction titles and 8 books-on-tape (which I'm not claiming have the same benefits, but it sure beats falling asleep during my 45 minute commute home from work). And I have decided to share the best with you. Lucky you.

My Top 3 Books of 2014 (in alphabetical order)
The Giver (Lois Lowry, 1993)--okay, this one was a re-read, in honor of the upcoming movie, since I didn't remember much from 6th grade except the sled and the color red. If you haven't read this, please do. It's the original dystopian novel, so much simpler and more moving than "Divergent" or "The Hunger Games". There are echoes of today's society, like "releasing" the deformed, troublesome, and elderly; trying to remove childbearing from marriage; and government regulation of everything. There are people today who agree that all of our freedoms and emotions aren't worth the heartache they cause--but it's a perfect example that life to the full doesn't mean life without suffering, and even if you take all suffering away, it won't bring happiness.

The Invention of Wings (Sue Monk Kidd, 2014)--This book was an incredibly engaging look at slavery in the South shortly before the Civil War. It details the relationship between an idealistic young Charleston woman and her brash waiting maid, as well as the cultural barriers they both face growing up. It's stark, often very hard to read, but hopeful and thought-provoking as well. Any fans of historical fiction, strong characters, or just a good story should add this to their list.

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down (Anne Fadiman, 1997)--as I've already mentioned, this book is a must read for anyone in healthcare or that deals with other cultures, but really, for everybody. This book riled me up more than any other book I read this year, and has changed the way I approach medicine (at least a little bit, at least I hope).

5 Other Great Reads
Clear and Present Danger (Tom Clancy)--an intricate spy novel, detailed but engaging
Leaving Van Gogh (Carol Wallace)--a beautiful look at art, mental illness, friendship, and family
Saint John Paul the Great: His Five Loves (Jason Evert)--the latest on JPII, a wonderfully personable portrayal
Station Eleven (Emily St John Mandel)--a science fiction novel of sorts, wonderful characters and a moving story
The Tiger's Wife (Tea Obreht)--lots to think about in this fantastical tale of a young doctor dealing with the death of her grandfather

As always, I'm up for discussions and book recommendations. Here's hoping for more library card use from all of us in the new year.

This Year, Next Year

Inspired by a friend's post, I present a year-in-review/new-year's-resolution brainstorming session. Goals for next year are subject to change.

14 Things I Did in 2014

1. Played camp doctor for Camp Wojtyla for almost 2 weeks.

2. First (and second) adventure race

3. Learned how to make kale chips

4. Diagnosed leukemia and diabetes

5. Was a High Roller in the Bike MS

6. Read over 40 books

7. Gave speed dating a shot

8. Certified as a Wilderness First Responder

9. Became the education liaison for one of our sites

10. House reunion with all 7 of us (albeit some were Face Timed in)

11. Toured Ireland—SO many other things could fall under this. Let’s just say amazing trip.

12. Trap shooting

13. 2 time flag football champion

14. Spiritual Exercises silent retreat

15 Things I Want To Do in 2015

1. Play in a basketball league for the first time in 12 years.

2. Repeat stint as Camp Doctor, this time for 4 weeks, and become an expert hammock camper

3. Three Colorado sporting events

4. Trip to the Outer Banks

5. Complete my first skiing 4 pack

6. Send a “just because” card once a month

7. Try out a new recipe once a month

8. Attend New Faculty Development Workshop

9. Clean my bathroom every 2 weeks (this one might last about 2 weeks)

10. Take a class

11. Do something that makes me sweat 4 days a week

12. Make progress as part of the Faculty Resilience Council

13. Book the El Camino Trip

14. Finish “Time for God” by Jacques Phillipe

15. Refresh my intubation skills in the OR