Recipe Weekend: Unexpected Gifts for Mom This Year!

 Disclosure / Disclaimer: I received these books, free of charge, from Jossey-Bass books, and Adams media, via Edelweissplus for review purposes on this blog. No other compensation, monetary or in kind, has been received or implied for this post. Nor was I told how to post about it. All opinions are my own.

Think outside the box this year and give mom a book she actually wants, but might be afraid to buy on her own!

What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?: (And Other Thoughts From a 40-something Mom)  by Karen Johnson, a.k.a. The 21st Century SAHM

Synopsis: 

Helpful, inspiring guide for mothers seeking to flourish and succeed after their kids grow up

In What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? (And Other Thoughts from a 40-Something Mom), renowned parenting influencer Karen Johnson provides a fun, easy-to-understand, and inspiring guide for mothers currently experiencing an empty nest, or who see one on the horizon, and are looking to lead their best, most fulfilling lives and feel comfortable that they're not alone in their struggles. This book draws upon stories and experiences from Johnson and mothers around her, helping readers seek out new passions, including new career paths, to avoid feeling as if they are solely defined by motherhood.

In this book, Johnson explores topics including:

• Taking risks, putting yourself out there, getting stronger mentally and physically, and fostering positive relationships
• Navigating the wondrously weird world of perimenopause and aging bodies with confidence, knowledge, and grace
• Working through the very real emotions of guilt, anxiety, failure, and shame that often accompany this transitory period in mothers' lives

What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? (And Other Thoughts from a 40-Something Mom) earns a well deserved spot on the bookshelves of all mothers seeking to develop individualism, mindfulness, and genuine feelings of contentment and happiness as they turn the page to the next chapter of their lives.

Review:

This book wasn't quite what I was expecting. I think its's a Gen X thing honestly- having already gone through much of the book in real life, my take was a bit different (ie with menopause- mine was nowhere near traumatic or dramatic) I like the ideas of finding yourself after the kids have finished school, and discovering what YOU actually like to do, and finding people that lift you up- not keep you moored in insane perfectionism or one-up-manship. It's time to let go of that craziness and discover what makes YOU happy. You are than just someone's mom- you are your own unique person and you need to remember that, as the kids need you less and it's time to bloom! It's a good gift for the mom who may soon find herself adrift, or who needs a reminder that the kids are in middle school, it's time to start planning!

and speaking of planning....

The Everything Guide to GLP-1s by Kayley George

Synopsis:

For the best results on your weight loss journey, look no further than The Everything Guide to GLP-1s. Packed with everything you need to know about GLP-1 medications, including what they are, how they work, and what kind of healthy habits and lifestyle changes you need to make for the best results, this book is a must-have companion for your weight loss journey.

Once you’ve covered the basics, you’ll find 150 recipes that are specifically designed to help you achieve the best results while taking weight-loss medications, to avoid uncomfortable side effects, and to help you maintain your new weight post-treatment. From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, this book has you covered so you can:

-Start your day off with a protein-packed breakfast like Tomato and Mozzarella Baked Eggs
-Get into those healthy legumes and vegetables with a Warm Chickpea Salad with Spinach for lunch
-Explore modified versions of your favorite foods like a burger for dinner with Feta Cheese Turkey Burgers
-And much more!

In this book, you’ll find guidance on all things GLP-1. You’ll also discover flexible meal plans that show you how to use these recipes to maintain a healthy body once and for all. Start your healthy weight loss journey today.

Review:

I was also expecting a bit more with this book. technically it covers what it says it does, but I was looking for a little more in depth discussion on the different GLP-1s, and their usage and testing, versus have a low cal/high protein cookbook. But both are covered, it just feels like there is more book space given to the recipes, and how you should eat, versus issues with the GLP-1s and which might be better for you. But there are some great tips included that if your mom is discussing taking a GLP-1, she's love to know. But there aren't many books out there that address both parts of the discussion- what are they/which should I take and provides a good foundation for changing the way you eat via different but familiar recipes. If you mom is considering this route, this might be an important book to give her this year!