Don't forget to take a moment and breathe

I always laugh to myself when someone suggests it's time to slow down and "take some time for yourself". First of all, there's simply not enough time in a day to get everything done. Everyone knows that. And since that's the reality, I'm not sure how slowing down is ever an option. The retort to that, of course, is that we make the choice to be insanely busy so we could, conceivably, choose to let some things go and replace them with a coffee break. The problem with that is that if you're anything like me, you recognize that just as the days are too short, so is life. We get this one chance to contribute and it's important to live life to the fullest and be as active a participant as possible. My mother used to tell me that you can do it all, just not all at the same time. When we do too much at once, we tend to forget to savor the experiences that make us who we are. My message to my own kids is remember to breathe and remember to be - you are responsible for the life you lead - be present, make it count and remember to enjoy it!

Bet you're wondering how I'll turn this into a book recommendation. Well, what about a book where the protagonist is seen having the time of his life - truly living life to the fullest? Have you seen Stephen Savage's Where's Walrus? A walrus leaves the zoo to take in and blend into the sights of the city on a quest for adventure. Check out the book trailer and you'll see that this is a picture book to enjoy and cherish. It should be a staple in every preschool and kindergarten classroom!