Posted in Homestead

Recently, an emailer requested a few titles of books that I think are worthy of a new bride, specifying she was looking for books that stand the test of time.  Well, I had to think about this, because I do not know the bride or she and her future husband's lifestyles.  However, with a little thought, I came up with, what I thought, was a good list that would be well recieved and used by a person of any lifestyle (well except maybe a convenience oriented couple). 

• Home Comforts, by Crystal Mendelson  Firstly, a new bride can never go wrong with a book about all things of home care.  I continue to learn from this book.  Everything from how to fold a fitted sheet to caring for cookware.  This is the best book about home care.  All the things my mother never taught me are here. 

I would include a cookbook that covers a wide range of cooking, such as:

• Joy of Cooking, Irma S. Rombauer
• Betty Crocker Cookbook, by Betty Crocker Editors

I definitely, would include a book about food storage, even if the bride is more convenience minded.  Once a woman tries some type of stocking up, they stick with it.

• Stocking Up, by Carol Hupping

This is a book that is a great way to be happy and thankful at the most basic levels.  Starting a new bride in this mindset will produce years of joy.

• Simple Abundance, by Sarah Ban Breathnach

In the same vain, any new bride (christian) would be blessed to have this addition to her bookshelf to begin her new marriage.

• The Power of a Praying Wife, by Stormie Omartian

Every new couple should have a title that pertains to home finances.  My recommendation is always:

• The Complete Tightwad Gazette, by Denise Dacyczyn  This is one of the most used and referenced books in my home.  Each time something comes up, I check the index to see if there are any articles regarding such.
• Everyday Cheapskate's Greatest Tips, by Mary Hunt  Mary Hunt now has several excellent titles.  This one touches a little bit on all areas, so a good beginning resource for a new couple.  If the title is well received, you will soon find all of Mary's titles on their shelves. 

What I did not include, because it would be unique to each situation are specific titles geared towards a specific style of cooking, a book of local outtings, and a hobby or music book.  Please, never forget to include at least one book that is for the groom.  A library for a new life, together, is an excellent gift for the new couple.   *Pssst!  These titles are not just for newlyweds.  They are excellent resources to search out at any!*

These are my thoughts.