How many times have people told you to chill out (and if they didn’t use those exact words, that’s what they meant)?  I know I get told that more than I’d like to admit.  I allow things to get under my skin and ferment for days and sometimes weeks.  In times like these, I even think I need to chill out.  However, my problem always has been that I didn’t know how until The Anywhere, Anytime Chill Guide came along into my life.  This is a great book for several reasons.  First, there are 77 strategies in here.  If one doesn’t work for you, try the next.  There is truly something that can you in here.  I also love that it is an easy read.  I don’t need detailed directions stressing me when I am trying to chill out, and the author actually made it a really fun read.  There are statements in the book like “Here are some simple ways to keep your cool that you can do in a crowd without looking like a weirdo”.  Anytime you use weirdo, you score some bonus points.  I love that the book reinforces trusting your body, yet allows you to make changes in what you do for certain situations that raise your blood pressure.  Some of the situations I have been using the techniques for are road rage (I live in Chicago.  How can you not have road rage here.)  There is also some suggestions for motion sickness that I plan on trying out on our way to Green Bay tomorrow.

This is a book I highly recommend to anyone you know that needs to “chill” out.  This book is even great for those who seem to have it all under control.  It is funny, informative, and an easy read.  There is a lot of great advice for different situations that you may encounter.  This book helps you to simply feel better.

A Day at the Beach is another book that works great for toddlers and babies. The pages are made out of thick cardboard, so you do not need to worry about tearing or then being eaten.  Dora also is usually a hit with the younger crowd, and this book is no exception.  The pictures are good enough that your kids can figure out what the words say without being able to read.  The plot of the story is obviously Boots, Dora, and backpack spending the day at the beach.  One of things that I love is that in the first couple of pages they apply sunscreen.  That is great attention to details.  The book is about ten pages long, so it is the right length for little ones.  If you need a great filler gift for a present or just need some more kid friendly books, then this is you choice.