I did read a few books this past year—promise. I go through phases of book-after-book years and then some where just the thought of starting a new book made me anxious. Well, I guess this year was one of those shutter at books year. BUT NOT 2017, I won’t let it happen!

I’ve already got a pile of books I’m pretty pumped about. 1) Lots of people have been posting these on Insta, so they’ve gotta be good and 2) a women in Barnes & Noble eyeballed me as I picked up “A Dog’s Purpose” and told me it was a tear-jerker. I love a good cry, so it's officially in the to-read pile!

Here’s a list of books I enjoyed this past year and highly recommend! (Although Emily Henderson’s "Styled" isn’t really a sit down and cry type of book, it's so pretty—and so me—I had to include it.)

1. The Girl With The Lower Back Tattoo
by Amy Schumer

I really enjoyed this read. It wasn’t all super funny dirty talk, though she does throw in some sex jokes. Amy touched on some real topics that I could relate to. She’s a human and has struggles just like all of us. Successful and normal - refreshing.

2. Daring Greatly
by Brené Brown

This book is also a breath of fresh air. Touches on things like how being vulnerable can help give ourselves and others around us the power to move past our struggles. As an anxious person, I found this book to be inspirational - we are not alone and we can move past our fears by letting go of the control we once thought was helpful. Now to just put all of this into practice. . .

3. Styled: Secrets for Arranging Rooms
by Emily Henderson

Super beautiful coffee table book. Emily breaks down the difference between styling and decorating - there’s totally a difference. What’s best for functionality and design is not always what looks best on camera and in magazine spreads. She breaks down the key components of lots of different styles in a style diagnostic - I still think I’m a mix of every single style there ever was.