Books vs. E-Readers

Absolutely!

What, you wanted more? I love both!

However.

They both don’t love me.

Of all the things I thought I’d have forever, it was the luxury of going to a library or bookstore, picking out what I wanted, and curling up to read it. There’s just nothing like the scent and sound of turning pages while a story unfolds.

Technically, I still can read books, but I won’t last long before a headache kicks in or my mind starts to wander.  My eyes just aren’t happy reading books these days.

I like my eyes to be happy.

So, now I have the luxury of picking out a book online (at a library site or that A-word) and curling up to read on my Kindle. It took a while to get used to, but now it’s just as comforting as holding a book. Even better, my hand doesn’t hurt from holding it and my eyes don’t complain because I’m able to adjust my font and such.

I have found, however, a way to still enjoy bookstores and libraries!

Grandchildren!

I’ve started going back to the local bookstore to get books for my grandson. On days that I pick him up from school, I have one or two books waiting for him in the back seat. One of my favorite moments was when I bought him his first children’s dictionary. His first reaction was, as they say, “meh.” Then I heard him pick it up and leaf through it.

“I know what spaghetti is!” he exclaimed with a 7-year-old’s version of disdain.

“Oh?” I responded, “What does it say?” He promptly started reading and was immediately engrossed in the description and definition.

“Did you know there’s a song?” he asked. “Do you want to hear it?” Of course, I did! He promptly started reading the first verse of “On Top of Spaghetti.”

When I asked if he wanted to hear how it sounded he said yes. I amazed myself when I realized I remembered all the verses.

All. The. Verses.

My car was filled with 7-year-old giggles and requests for me to sing it again.

Of course, I obliged.

Mind you, this takes the pressure off of driving and being asked serious questions like “Do you believe in G-d?” Those questions are best answered when not having to concentrate on things like driving…especially if you’re living with brain fog.

This summer, I plan to introduce my 7-year-old grandson to the magic and wonder of our local public library. He’s already taken out books from his school library, so the foundation of caring for the borrowed book has been set.

So, the answer is still….Absolutely! I love books, but I know my limitations.  If I want to enjoy reading, then I use the technology available to me. Plus, I have the honor of watching my grandson’s love of reading bloom and grow.

I am thankful.

Livin’ La Vida Llama – one book at a time.