Review of Touching the Clouds by Bonnie Leon

Revell Books sent me a complimentary copy of Touching the Clouds to review.

Kate Evans is an adventurous and independent young woman with a pioneering spirit. When she leaves her home in Washington State to follow her dream of being an Alaskan bush pilot, she knows it will be an uphill battle. But she never expected it to be quite like this. As the lone woman in a man's world, she finds that contending with people's expectations is almost as treacherous as navigating the wild arctic storms.

This story follows Kate on her flights during the 1930's in the Alaskan wilderness and the feeling of needing to be more. A good, quick read, this 1st book in the Alaskan Skies Series started off this series well and I'm curious as to what the 2nd book will be about.

One thing that caught me off guard was the quick ending. I wasn't expecting it to wrap up in a half page and thought that book two will be a continuation and leaving one hanging, wondering what happens to Kate and her new relationship. Obviously, this could very well still happen.

Looking forward to reading book two!

Available July 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

no agenda today

It's been a long while since I posted anything on here. As my boss said yesterday, "If you work in Children's Ministry, your summer doesn't start until after VBS is over." I'm thankful that our VBS wasn't in August!

Today is the first day I've been home in the last 10 days. 10 days straight of working 12+ hours each finally took its toll yesterday at about noon. I thought I had hit the wall on Wednesday, but found yesterday it wasn't the final wall to hit, and it wasn't the wall that broke. Our women's ministry director just happened to be walking by the room I was decorating and asked how I was holding up. The wall crumbled with that one question and I finally cracked and broke. I was purely exhausted and it finally caught up with me. Thankfully she has big shoulders and completely understood and gave me a big hug. Our entire team was spent and by the grace of God, we all still love each other :)

I have the most amazing co-workers as they forced (literally) me to take a break yesterday and took over my job of putting together the bins for Sunday. I was able to sit outside and eat lunch (Mary's leftovers that she graciously thrust into my hands). It was just the break I needed to finish that last day of our Kids' Summer Adventure. My boss sat us all down and told us to take next week off and only do what absolutely needs done. I'll be able to take Tuesday through Saturday off to spend with my family whom I have missed so very much.

My amazing husband has held down the home fort and has taken care/played with the kids. His patience is mind blowing as he has held it together every day of me not being here and has been so supportive and encouraging of me and working. I couldn't have made it as long as I did without his support. Thank you my love!

The week was a huge success, tons of kids, amazing volunteers and kids hearing about Jesus. The set was beyond amazing. The weather was perfect. I loved hearing those 3 year olds to 4th graders sing at the top of their lungs as a huge group. Yelling "Let's GO!" after the Bible point was spoken every single time. The excited buzz in the air each night as kids rotated from station to station, laughing and having a blast. It was worth all the hard work and long hours.

It's 1:30 and I'm still in my pajamas. No agenda. No set to tear down and put together a new one (had to do that each night for the Bible story room). No walking from building to building to make sure everything is set for the evening (I think I walked miles over the week). Nothing to do but sit. And make pb&j sandwiches for lunch.

A Review of A Love of Her Own by Maggie Brendan

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them.

This is the 3rd book in the Heart of the West series, but stood by itself very well. Here is a little synopsis of the book:

It’s here, in Lewiston, Montana, where April McBride travels to attend her brother’s wedding. Still cautious after a broken engagement, she fully intends to guard her heart. One look around the small mining town convinces April that doing so won't be difficult—just a bunch of dusty shops, bad service, and ill-bred cowboys.

A very well developed book that didn't completely lose you by being the 3rd book in the series if you hadn't read the first two. In this story the main characters were well defined and the main characters from previous books were introduced as secondary.

This was a very easy read, flowed very well and had a good story line. Not a whole lot of suspense or "I wonder what's going to happen in the end", but I don't think it was intended to be like that.

Overall, a good read.

Available June 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

trickery

My kids enjoy trickery. They try to get the other one to look at something and then say, "made you look!" The other night this was one of their tricking sessions while at the table.

Sam: Alina look! A hummingbird! Quick! Look!!! HA! Made you look!

Not missing a beat Alina said: Sam look! It's Jesus! Made you look!

I about fell over laughing. The both cracked up as well. I love hearing their banter and the funnies that come from their teasing and talk.

Review of This Fine Life by Eva Marie Everson

Revell sent me this complimentary copy to review.

What a tender-hearted story. The reader follows Mariette Puttnam through the early years of the 1960's right after her graduation from high school. A story about finding faith and love, experiencing heart ache and learning about growing up.

Here is a small clip from the back:

This Fine Life is a stand-alone novel by popular author Eva Marie Everson that transports readers to small-town Georgia in 1959: Mariette Puttnam has just graduated from boarding school during the summer of 1959. When she returns to her privileged life at home, she isn't sure where life will take her. More schooling? A job? Marriage? Nothing feels right. How could she know that the answer is waiting for her within the narrow stairwell of her father's apparel factory, exactly between the third and
fourth floors?

For a quick, heart warming story, pick up this book.

Available May 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

and still going strong!

15 years ago at about this time, I was standing in a church packed with 400+ people getting ready to say "I do" to the man standing across from me. We were so, so young. I was only two years into college and Ed had a full time job at the YMCA. There was so much I didn't know at the age of 20, let alone so much I didn't know about myself.

Little did I know what the journey would look like for us.

And what a journey is has been.

We have been together over half my life now between dating and marriage and learning life with you, my love, has been amazing. I couldn't ask for a better companion along this road or a better friend to journey it with. There have been valleys I never thought we would make it out of alive. The mountain peaks have been filled with so much adrenalin it was hard to come down. The peaceful meadows of when life was quiet. And riding the roaring rivers where life seems to move so swiftly we barely see where we've been or where we're going.

I'm looking forward to the next 15 years and beyond. The areas that haven't been traveled yet. The mountains we haven't seen. The part of the river that is around the next bend. The valleys where we can encourage each other through.

I'm glad we haven't arrived yet. There's so much left to live with you. Happy Anniversary my love!

the beginning

This week marks our 15th wedding anniversary. When I tell people how long I've been married, it's quite humorous to see their reaction. Last week one coworker said he thought I wasn't even 30 yet. The week before another said she thought I looked like I was in college.

I thought it'd be fun to share some of our story from way back when.

The picture you see is from my Senior Banquet (not prom mind you. That wasn't allowed). Ed and I had started dating the summer between my Junior and Senior year. Of high school. We had been making eyes at each other for a couple years before Ed finally asked me out.

He was wisely advised by his friends not to ask me out when he wanted to as I was just 15 years old. So two years later he did. But I informed him that he had to ask my dad first for permission.

That sure didn't deter him. He went out to lunch with my dad and asked permission of which was granted.

Our first date he feigned cold hands while sitting at an outdoor MSU play and slipped them into mine. Yeah...he's sneaky like that. He also blatantly lied and said for dinner he was going to get a sandwich from Quality Dairy (if you know Lansing, you know QD..think 7-11, but also having ice cream. And milk in a bag. I joke not.) We did end up at QD, but also in the same parking lot was a little restaurant called Swenson's. He headed that direction while I headed to QD. Yeah...he's sneaky like that too.

From the first time he told me he loved me (in which I threw up), I continued to get sick in his presence. It took months to recover from that. I even broke up with him one day, calling the next saying I made a mistake.

He claimed he was going to marry me to his mother even before we started dating. Yeah...he's persistent like that.

So many stories in our courtship. All of which make me smile.

labels

Whilst in the store the other day, I was reading labels to Sam on cereal (showing him how much sugar is in the sugary cereals as he and his sister always ask for them and I always say no) and noticed a little thing called BHT that is added to the packaging material to preserve freshness. It also appears in things like potato chips, which tend to be high in fat, along with baked goods and a wide variety of other foods.

Onto Google I went and found, according to good 'ole wikipedia, the definition.

First off, I can't even pronounce this additive. Butylated hydroxytoluene. Exactly. It's an antioxidant food additive.

Then I read what else this is used for as an antioxidant additive. It's used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, jet fuels, rubber, petroleum products, electrical transformer oil,[2] and embalming fluid.

Yum! And it's great that I have unopened boxes of what I thought are healthy cereals sitting in my cupboard with this on the label.

As with everything else out there, debate and controversy ensue with one side saying it's safe and others saying it can increase tumors and malignant cancers.

I just want to live on a plot of land with a milk cow, some chickens, maybe a pig and a garden, hang my wash on the line and churn butter. I know. It's harder than it sounds, but doesn't it sound grand?

Last week I was yet again reminded how much we have.

For our anniversary coming up, we splurged and bought a new bed. Ed was waking up more tired than he was when going to bed and in serious pain each morning.

The same day we bought the bed, I received an e-mail from one of my coworkers stating a man in the congregation was working with a couple from Pakistan who needed a bed. The wife is 7 months pregnant and the husband is looking for work. I thought in my wee brain, "we have a bed that's still in good condition."

Two of the custodians at church came and got it from our house on Monday and took it to the couple. One of the guys took pictures and video to show me their journey.

He said, "this is their couch. She slept there while her husband slept on the floor." He then showed me their bedroom and the bed on the floor. There was about a foot of space to walk on one side of the bed and that was it. No dressers or anything else could fit in the room.

He also said, "they washed out their two cups just to give us a drink." Two cups. That's all the dishes they had. I received an e-mail later from the man and from a woman that is working with them also, saying they absolutely LOVE the bed and are so very thankful for it.

Here I sit on my comfy chair surrounded by bookcases full of books and a piano against the other wall. My kitchen is chalk full of dishes. Do I really need all this? There is a couple out there with a bed, a couch and 2 mugs.

What can you do to help someone? Goodwill is great and helps a lot of people, but there's just something about seeing who you are giving to that pierces the heart.

Again, it's been a while since I've written anything other than a book review. Life has a way of flying by without realizing it. By the time you stop and look back, weeks have come and gone.

So here we are, the 2nd week of May. The year is almost half over! Time...where have you gone? The kids have four weeks left of school.

Then summer. We're hoping to travel to lots of places this summer and experience the West Coast. Our list keeps getting longer and longer of places we keep finding.

Ed has started summer classes and I'm pretty excited I get to take one of the classes with him. Child and adolescent counseling.

This is the last week in my current position at work. Next Monday the new boss starts. Hopefully this week I find out what that means for my hours. I already have something new with helping one of the satellite churches with their children's ministry, so that'll be a new learning experience to add to my belt.

I can tell my noggin is weary as this is the most stumbly post I've ever written.

Review of Irene Hannon's In Harm's Way

Revell Books sent me this complimentary book to read and review.

In Harm's Way is book three in the Heroes of Quantico series. I was a bit hesitant to review this book as I haven't had great success with books further along in a series. But this one was a great read all by itself. I could tell who the other books were about as those characters overlapped into this book, and they were more minor characters which was really nice.

This book was a great mystery even though you knew who the suspect was from the beginning. The reader had the inside scoop and was able to watch how the suspect was found and caught. How the main characters put the pieces together. And there was still the sense of justice at the end even though the reader knew the conclusion.

A great read and an author that I would definitely read again.

Available April 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Review of A Million Miles In A Thousand Years by Donald Miller

Thomas Nelson sent me this complimentary copy to read and review for them.

This book sat on my shelf for a few weeks before I decided to pick it up. I'm not a big non-fiction fan, and I have heard that this was a good book, but I had to be in the right spot to be ready to be challenged.

To start out, this was an amazing book. A very, very easy read in the sense that you are listening to someone talk. The flow of this book made complete sense and the reader could easily track Donald's train of thought. His sense of humor would pop up unexpectedly and I would literally laugh out loud. This is such a down to earth book, both heart and life compelling.

Donald makes you think about your life as a story being written. He says, "If I have a hope, it's that God sat over the dark nothing and wrote you and me, specifically, into the story, and put us in with the sunset and the rainstorm as though to say, Enjoy your place in my story. The beauty of it means you matter, and you can create within it even as I have created you."

The part that resonated within me the deepest and still sticks to me like thick molasses is this (it's long, but oh so good):

Growing up in church, we were taught that Jesus was the answer to all our problems. We were taught that there was a circle-shaped hole in our heart and that we had tried to fill it with the square pegs of sex, drugs, and rock and roll; but only the circle peg of Jesus could fill our hole. I became a Christian based, in part, on this promise, but the hole never really went away. To be sure, I like Jesus, and I still follow him, but the idea that Jesus will make everything better is a lie. It's basically biblical theology translated into the language of infomercials. The truth is, the apostles never really promise Jesus is going to make everything better here on earth. Can you imagine an infomercial with Paul, testifying to the amazing product of Jesus, saying that he once had power and authority, and since he tried Jesus, he's been moved from prison to prison, beaten, and routinely bitten by snakes? I don't think may people would be buying that product....It's hard to imagine how a religion steeped in so much pain and sacrifice turned into a promise for earthly euphoria. I think Jesus can make things better, but I don't think he is going to make things perfect. Not here, and not now.

He hit the nail right on the head.

I'm ready to read this book again. Such great nuggets of wisdom that totally make sense in life. I would recommend this to anyone to read. Go out and buy it! It's a must have for your personal library.

Review of Too Close To Home by Lynette Eason

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to read and review for them.

What a great book! I'm becoming more and more of a fan of mystery books, especially ones that I can't figure out "who done it" until the end.

Here's a short overview of the book:

In this thrilling first book, readers meet Samantha Cash, who is the FBI's secret weapon. Her methods are invisible, and she never stops until the case is closed. When missing teens begin turning up dead in a small Southern town, Samantha is assigned to help homicide detective Connor Wolfe find the killer. s they get close to an answer, the case becomes personal. The killer seems to be taking an interest in Connor's 16-year-old daughter, who thinks her dad is getting way too protective.

I had a hunch who The Agent was (the bad guy), but not until well over half way through. It was a hard book to put down as it sucked the reader in right from the beginning. The characters were well developed and the story line flowed smoothly.

The teaser at the end for the 2nd book was just as rivating and it'll definitely be a book I will want to read.

Available April 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Review of Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Bethany House sent me a free copy of Sense and Sensibility to review for them.

This is a bit different version as it is an Insight Edition which has notes along the margins. Trivia, notes, and inspirations to enhance the story.

A great classic as any Jane Austen book is. I really liked the comments about the movie, the little blips about Jane Austen's life and their humorous remarks about the characters.

It took a bit longer to read with all of these side comments, but they did enhance the story. I didn't care for the inspiration notes as they seemed to almost force the story towards God (which isn't a bad thing, but just distracting with an already true classic story).

I liked this book overall and it'll hold a spot on my bookshelf.

Year two is coming to a close. I never ever thought it would ever come. I really, truly didn't. But it is upon us. Ed has one more class on Wednesday and then year two is complete (though he does have to take some summer intensives, but his 2nd year will be "officially" done).

His internship for the fall has been confirmed and he's ready to start.

After this summer he has 18 credits left.

18 credits.

And then he's done.

I can't even imagine what that is going to feel like for him, for me or for our family. Or what life is going to be like after that (we still do have another year...).

We dream of what is to come and before we know it, he'll be walking down the aisle and receiving his diploma for all of his hard work.

And then what? (that's the question everyone asks).

Good question.

awakening

Amidst other firsts happening this, my first year of mid 30's, I've taken up running. I have to say that I heart it. I thought I'd never be able to run as I get horrendous shin splints even when walking or hiking. I found out at the running store that I have unbelievably high arches which causes the pain. And after purchasing the most amazing shoes on earth with the highest arch support possible, it's wonderful. It's like walking on a cloud of marshmallow yumminess. Course, that would totally defeat the purpose of running.

The last time I ran I didn't have any shin splint pain. Now granted, I've only run twice, but the days I can't run, I wish I could. I yearn. Long. Drool. ok..not that bad. Even when it's raining outside. Even after a long day of work. It's so theraputic. I pop my ear buds in after work, crank up my Black Eyed Peas (and other assorted fast paced, loud music) and head down to the lake for the three mile trek.

Then my friend Katie threw a challenge at me. You see, she's a runner. Has run marathons. Many marathons. She was SO excited when I told her I started running. She said I should run a marathon and my first question was, "how long is it?" I balked at her answer and said NO WAY! (yes..that loudly too) But she wasn't about to give up heckling me (she really didn't heckle me...ok maybe a wee heckle). A week later she asked "How about a half marathon?" My question: how long is it? 13 miles. That sounded a little more doable. She even said I don't have to talk to her while running. So I agreed.

June 26th is my day of death.

I asked about training and was informed to start with a mile. I laughed out loud and explained that the longest I've run is 3/4 of a mile and about died. But she waved it off as no biggie.

I have 3 months right?

A Review of A Distant Melody by Sarah Sundin

Revell Books sent me this complimentary book to review. A Distant Melody was the first novel for author Sarah Sundin.

A tale set during WWII about two of the least likely people who find friendship through corresponding across the ocean. Heartache, loss of family and friends and discovery of one's self are waves of themes throughout this book.

A great book overall. A bit long in places, but for a first novel, it was good. This is the first book in the series Wings of Glory and I would definitely read the second.

Available March 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Falling in love

This is not an official book review. I didn't receive this book from a publisher, but as a Christmas gift to our family from the school my husband attends. It has been collecting dust on the bookshelf for the past three months. This past week my friend and mentor, Jane (who is awesome), brought it with her to our meeting and read a story from it. It triggered something in me. I went home that night and blew the dust off of it.

We started reading it before bed. Alina has asked every night if we can read a story from the Bible and end up reading at least three. The language it uses is so appealing to kids my kids' age. It easily explains the lineage of Christ. In every story there is a reference to why Christ came and The Secret Rescue Plan. It has been a huge springboard in discussions about Christ and God and being in God's family.

I also think it's a great time to read it with Easter coming, though we'll more than likely finish it before then at the rate we're going.

I also don't think it's just for kids. With reading the stories out loud, it's seeping into my soul. This is a very good thing as my soul needs it.

So if you are looking for a kids' bible, I highly recommend The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones.

Review of Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith

Revell Books sent me this complimentary book to review.

This is the 2nd book in the "Wives of David" series by Jill Eileen Smith.

Abigail's hopes and dreams for the future are wrapped up in her handsome, dark-eyed betrothed, Nabal. But when the long-awaited wedding day arrives, her drunken groom behaves shamefully. Nevertheless, Abigail tries to honor and respect her husband despite his abuse of her.
Meanwhile, Abigail's family has joined David's wandering tribe as he and his people keep traveling to avoid the dangerous Saul. When Nabal suddenly dies, Abigail is free to move on with her life, and thanks to her brother, her new life includes a new husband--David. The dangers of tribal life on the run are serious, but there are other dangers in young Abigail's mind. How can David lead his people effectively when he goes against God? And how can Abigail share David's love with the other wives he insists on marrying?

This is easily a read-alone book and was a very good read. I found it quite interesting how the author wove in some of the Psalms that David wrote right into the conversations/thoughts he had throughout the book. It also brought to light how hard it may have been for all the wives David had, how they may have interacted with each other and their feelings in having to share a husband. It flowed well and kept you captivated from beginning to end.

Available February 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Review of Swinging on a Star by Janice Thompson

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review.

Bella Rossi's life is nearing perfection. She's got the perfect guy, she's running a successful business, and she's about to plan her most ambitious wedding yet, a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There's just one hitch. The best man just happens to be Brock Benson, Hollywood's hottest and most eligible bachelor. Oh, and did we mention he's staying at the Rossi house to avoid the paparazzi?

This is the 2nd book in the series "Weddings by Bella". It was a cute story and a very easy read. But it seemed very slow. At times I had to force myself through chapters to get to the next one. There was no anticipation of what was going to come next. I know it wasn't meant to be a mystery, but there really wasn't any "grab your attention" at the beginning to keep you wanting more.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Have you ever seen God move in your kids? And you had not a single thing to do with it? To see your son in tears because of a song he was listening to about Jesus loving him. To hear your daughter say she prayed about how much to give to a school mission trip and take out a large bill she's been saving to give to it.

It's a very humbling feeling. To see that God feverishly loves my kids and makes himself known without me standing there. That he whispers to their young hearts and they know! Why should I even be surprised that God wants to be present in my kids' lives? They are his children too. Just like me. He loves them so much more than I ever could. And wants the best for them. Just like me.

Funny though how as an adult I have to work hard at hearing God. Make it a habit to listen for his voice. My kids don't. They just know.

Child-like faith ring a bell?

Review of The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen

I received this free copy of The Silent Governess from Bethany House to review.

What a great book! Totally unexpected ending. When I first opened the book in the mail it looked a bit daunting due to the length (438 pages to be exact). But boy, does it go fast!

Yes it's a romance, but woven in there is a mystery that keeps the book moving smoothly. Set during the nineteenth-century in England, this captivating story has unexpected twists and turns right up until the last page. The characters are developed well and there are just the right amount to keep track of.

Here is a little snip-it about the book:
"Believing herself guilty of a crime, Olivia Keene flees her home, eventually stumbling upon a grand estate where an elaborate celebration is in progress. But all is not as joyous as it seems."

A great read, one of which I will most likely pick up and read again.

Dreams That Won't Let Go by Stacy Hawkins Adams

Revell Books sent me this complimentary book to review.

"Indigo Burns is excited. Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are under way, her photography career is a success, and her family seems to be doing better than ever--all except her brother Reuben, who nobody has seen in years. But that's about to change."

This is book 3 in the Jubilant Soul Series. Totally a read alone book as well. I had no problem picking up where the story continued and easily jumped in with both feet.

I've read better books and worse books. The story line was easy to follow and the book was easy to read. Bitterness, heartache and forgiveness are the main components of the plot. A very easy, enjoyable read.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Eating out of the cupboard

Last month I took up the challenge of making meals out of what I had in the pantry for the entire month. I sat down and made a month menu based on what I had in the cupboard and then went to the store for the supplement items. I have to admit that it wasn't a 100% success as I did end up at the store throughout the month, but I can say that my cupboard is much more bare than it was a month ago. I cooked much more than I have since starting my job 10 months ago. I love being in the kitchen, so getting the creative juices flowing again didn't take long. Healthier meals were cooked compared to the previous month which makes one feel so much better.

But I'm finding there's one problem. An empty cupboard. A much more empty cupboard. Not only the cupboards, but my fridge too. Makes for a little bit more of a food budget this month, but it was a good exercise overall. And getting into that habit has paid off.

The other night Ed had defrosted some ground chicken and I was going to grill hamburgers (I heart grilling), but realized after I was home, there were no buns. Menu changed to tacos. Threw in a can of black beans and corn, stretched the tacos into the next day for lunches too.

Today on the way to pick kids up from school I thought, "I need to stop by the store to pick something up for dinner" which was immediately followed by, "wait...what do I have at home? I have ground turkey in the freezer and a bag of red potatoes that need used. Shepherds Pie!" So grocery store trip was scratched off the list and I spent $0. Throw in some veggies (not IN the shepherds pie Anne...just in case you were wondering if I was feeling ok) and there's dinner!

So it CAN be done with a little brain work, some extra time and for me, creating a menu for the month (sure saves $$ when I'm shopping off a list instead of off my brain).

A Review of Songs of Deliverance by Merilynn Griffith

Revell Books sent me a complimentary copy of Songs of Deliverance to review.

Here is a short blurb about the book: "Four childhood friends have been torn apart by the mistakes and tragedies of their past. Now as adults, they are reunited in their hometown of Testimony, Ohio, where they sort through the messy, real-life struggles of secrets kept hidden, lost loves and unknown futures."

Unfortunately, I had a hard time with this book. I felt like I was jumping into the middle of a story I was expected to know. The characters were already developed and it took a long time to piece together what had happened "previously". It was hard to sync with the flow and by the end there were all sorts of characters it was a bit confusing. There seemed to be a lot of emotional trauma with the four main characters of which there was no sense of relief. I felt very weighed down by the end even with everything wrapping up happily. Not that every book has to end with happy, sun-shiny feelings. This ending seemed to try to do that, but it fell short.

I found out after finishing this book that it's a sequel, but is also considered a stand alone novel. Which then, made sense. For some books this works. For this one, it didn't.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

A Review of Jenna's Cowboy by Sharon Gillenwater

Revell Books sent me this complimentary book to review.

I read this book in a day. It was that good. Yes, it was predictable, but so emotionally well written. I think what made it hit home more is recently walking beside a close friend who's son returned recently from serving in Iraq. Like one of the main characters, it made it a sliver more clear the type of images, choices and emotions that come with defending our country.

Here's a little snip-it from the book:

Jenna Callahan Colby thought she was content. A partner on her father's successful ranch, she is surrounded by family and friends. But she never expected to see Nate Langley back in town--the first guy she ever noticed, the one her father sent away all those years ago.

Sharon Gillenwater did a remarkable job of creating a very sweet, simple read that was full of heartache that seemed so real. This is the book one in The Callahans of Texas series and I will definitely be keeping my eye out for book two.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

Review of 50 Ways to Feel Great Today by David Biebel, James and Bobbie Dill

Revell Books sent me this complimentary book to review.

A bit overwhelming reading 50 different "keys to beating stress, worry, and the blues" in one sitting, but some did resonate with me and are ways that I will definitely implement.

Some of my favorites were #2: Brain Jog, #4 Create A Healthy Meal, #18 Journal your Journey, #44: Unplug your Gadgets and Read a Good Book, #49: Work in Your Yard or Garden.

The chapters were only a few pages long, which made for a quick read, but it was like reading 50 mini books as each chapter was so different. Again, not necessarily a book to read in one sitting.

I didn't find the humor in it very humorous, but others may. My opinion only. Some "ways" were more on the pricey side, but one can always be creative.

The bottom line, live life. Get out and do something. Keep your brain active. Be intentional about what you do and do something that makes you feel good. It's not a bad thing to make yourself feel good. You'll feel better about you!

Available December 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

At times I feel like I need to write deep thoughts (like Jack Handy) on here, but I'm really not in a deep thought mode. I would love to devote more time to blogging, but working full time, being a wife and mom takes a lot of time! Plus, I look at a computer all day long and the last thing I want to do when coming home is look at a computer even longer.

So anywho, life is flying by. Our planned day out snowshoeing on Friday was quickly replaced with a scheduled trip to the hospital for an MRI for the little miss (still waiting for the results), then to her choice of restaurant for lunch. From there we went to Pet Smart to find a new fish for Sam (Geoffrey went for a ride down the porcelain water slide after going to fishy heaven on Thursday).

While at Pet Smart, we went to see the kitties. (We once made the mistake of going to see what kinds of animals they had at Pet Smart and every time I go to the store, which is connected to Pet Smart, and have the kids with me, they beg to go see the kitties as they have "out of the cage play time" every day). The kitties are a part of the humane society and use Pet Smart's facilities to adopt the cats out. So into the room we went and Ed fell in love with a big ole orange cat. Play time was in 20 minutes so we waited until then to see the big guy (his weight said: Large). The volunteer took him out, put him on the floor, Ed patted his leg and the cat jumped up and plopped right down on his lap. Love at first pet. We filled out the preliminary paperwork, and had to come back to see the pet counselor a few hours later to finish everything.

So we are now the proud owners of Moose. We decided not to change his name as he's an older cat and it suits him just right. He is so laid back and lovey. His first night was spent meowing and roaming the house. I finally fell asleep at 2 a.m. after being squeezed out of my spot on the bed and sandwiched in between a very large cat and my husband. He also decided he liked my pillow (the whole pillow) and when that became uncomfortable, he plopped down on top of me. Literally. We found him this morning on Alina's bed, covered up with her blanket with his head sticking out. This afternoon he took a long nap with Ed all snug on Ed's chest and didn't move an inch.

He loves being where we are (which means being on someone's lap) and has even shown signs of playfulness when Alina gets out his stuffed mouse. He's perfect for our family and has fit in like a toasty glove.

The girls are now outnumbered in our household. Ed, Sam, Max, Stafford (Sam's new blue fish named after Matthew Stafford) and Moose take the lead, but I think us girls will hold our own quite well. :)

Review of The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy of The Choice to review for them. I was a bit hesitant as it is another Amish based book which have not been a favorite of mine in the past.

This book was different. The writing was simple, but drew the reader in right from the start. I enjoyed the conversations between the characters about Christ and how it's more about relationship instead of tradition. There was heartbreak, unexpected twists and outcomes that were a complete surprise. A great book to have on the shelf that will definitely be read again. I look forward to reading the second book in this series.

A tender story of love, forgiveness, and looking below the surface, The Choice uncovers the sweet simplicity of the Amish world -- and shows that it's never to late to find your way back to God.

A new challenge

I came across this earlier today on Coupon Geek's site and am going to give it a go for the month of January. I have so many odds and ends in the pantry and watching my mother last week make cream of chicken soup from scratch using no recipe, I know I can use what I have in my cupboards to make several meals this month. I'll be taking a different spin on this challenge as I will still be purchasing items like meat (only when on sale) throughout the month so I don't have a bare freezer and pantry come February (I would have to spend a whole lot more to stock it and would defeat the whole purpose of saving money).

So here are my goals:

1. Plan ahead so I won't be tempted to stop on the way from work to get dinner.

2. Only buy milk, eggs, produce, and meat (on sale) throughout the month.

3. Spend only $200 for the entire month (we'll see how this goes as groceries are so much more expensive here and my children are growing by leaps and bounds).

4. Put leftover money towards debt.

If you'd like to read more about it or link up to others who are doing this, head over to Money Saving Mom and join the challenge! Here's to a new year!

Goodbye and hello

2009.
There were the most heart wrenching hardships scattered with warm surprises.
More uncomfortable stretching along with God-moving choices.
Forgiveness, love-deepening, hard conversations, intermingled with prayer, prayer and more heaven sent prayer.
New milestones, new adventures, new jobs.
Old struggles to sift through laced with stale feelings that needed to be let go for good.

A new year brings a clean breath of freshness.
New beginnings.
New memories.
New adventures.
More hopes.
More organization.
More changes.

I need to not wish this coming year away but embrace each day.
Each choice.
Each hardship.
Embrace my husband.
My kids.
My friends.

The slate is ready to be added to.
Will I cling white knuckled to it or will I offer it willingly and open handed to my Maker?
That is the question I take into the new year.
Happy 2010 everyone!

Review of The Lightkeeper's Daughter by Colleen Coble

When I saw this book on Thomas Nelson's website to be able to review, I snatched it up as Colleen Coble is one of my favorite authors. The day it came to the house, I started reading it.

Here is a short description:

Growing up as the lightkeeper’s daughter on a remote island at the turn of the century, Addie Sullivan has lived a hardscrabble life. When a long-lost and wealthy relative finds her and enlists her to work as a governess at a lavish estate, she hopes to discover the truth of her heritage. But at Eaton Hall, nothing is as it seems. Not the idyllic family she hoped for, not the child she was hired to help, not even the aloof man she’s immediately attracted to. Soon she must turn for help to Lieutenant John North, a man who views her with suspicion.

I jumped right into the book, but had a hard time finding a rhythm and flow to it. Not until the last 1/4 of the book did it start to become interesting with the twists and turns Colleen is known for.

I was actually a bit disappointed this time around. It just wasn't up to par with her other books. There was more fluff romance than normal and it just didn't grab me like her books usually do. If the entire book was like the last 1/4, it would have made it much better.

Review of The Christmas Dog by Melody Carlson

I was sent this complimentary book from Revell Books to review.

This was a short, sweet, heart warming read that went pretty quick. Not really a whole lot of depth to it, but I don't think it was supposed to be a deep thinking book. It was pretty predictable, but again, very heart warming.

I did find myself being frustrated with the grandmother and wondering why she worried so much and continued to jump to conclusions all the time. But then I wondered how often that really happens in life with the elderly. Probably more than I think.

Here's a short excerpt from the book:

Betty Kowalski isn't looking forward to the holidays. She just can't seem to find Christmas in her heart. There's church, of course. But who can she bake for these days? And who would care whether or not she pulled out the Christmas decorations? Her new neighbor just adds to the problem. He's doing home improvements that don't appear to be improving much of anything. These days when Betty looks out the window, she sees a beat-up truck, a pile of junk, lots of blue tarps, and--horror of horrors--an old pink toilet. But when a mangy dog appears at her doorstep, the stage is set for Betty to learn a very important lesson about what Christmas is all about.

So all in all, a cute book that gives the warm fuzzies during the Christmas season.

Review of The Unfinished Gift by Dan Walsh

I received a complimentary copy of The Unfinished Gift from Revell Books to review.

This book was set during the Christmas season during WWII. A book about a grandfather, his grandson and the past. It was a very sweet book that made you feel like you were right there sitting in the cold room with the blizzard raging outside. It was also a little glimpse into what life was like for families during the war. With grocery shopping, rations and the lengths people went to just to survive.

"Everything else in the room had suddenly gone out of focus. There was only the wooden soldier." Set at Christmastime in 1943, The Unfinished Gift is the engaging story of a family in need of forgiveness. With simple grace, it reminds us of the small things that affect powerful change in our hearts--a young boy's prayers, a shoe box of love letters, and even a half-carved soldier, long forgotten. This nostalgic story of reconciliation will touch your heart.

A great read during the Christmas season as a reminder of what is important in life. This was a quick, easy book that warmed the heart.

Have you ever felt unsettled?
That no matter how much you try.
How much you pray.
That the unsettled feeling just doesn't go away?
That there's something more.
Something else.
Something you quite can't grasp.
Out there?
And if you find it, will it be enough?
Will you want more?

Will the winds of change help?
Blowing in unknown directions.
Taking you to a place
That may be home.
To be settled.
Home.

Review of eye of the god by Ariel Allison

Abingdon Press sent me this book to review and I was sucked in by the first page. What a great book full of suspense. It was hard to put down right up to the very last page. Even the very last sentence makes you say, "WHAT??? Wait a minute!" It leaves you wanting more.
Here is a short blurb about the book:

Alex and Isaac Weld, the most lucrative jewel thieves in the world, are on a quest to steal the Hope diamond, which according to legend was once the eye of a Hindu idol named Rama Sita. When it was stolen in the 17th century, it is said that the idol cursed all those who would possess it. That won't stop the brilliant and ruthless Weld brothers. However, they are not prepared for Dr. Abigail Mitchell, the beautiful Smithsonian Director, who has her own connection to the Hope Diamond and a deadly secret to keep. Abby committed long ago that she would not serve a god made with human hands, and the "eye of the god" is no exception. Her desire is not for wealth, but for wisdom.

Part of the book is held in the past, explaining the history of the Hope Diamond, but interweaves with the present to tie the story together. The author does a great job blending past and present to make a great book.

I would definitely read this authors books again as her writing is truly captivating.

I'm finding I don't have much time anymore. I miss my husband. I miss my kids. Working full (plus) time takes a lot out each day. I'm learning to cherish Friday's and Saturday's as Sabbath days as Sunday's are considered a work day. Ahhhhhh the joys of being in the ministry. :) As someone reminded me last night at the football game (whom I had just met) that this is a season. I know I need to learn from it what I can as it won't be forever.

So I am looking forward to Thanksgiving. A 3 day weekend, day of work and then another day off. We'll be by ourselves this year for Thanksgiving (first time ever) but it sure won't make me less thankful. Just have to bust my toosh the next four days so I can enjoy the three days off.

And the weather on Thanksgiving? Rain! The weather the past weeks....rain.
The forecast for the next week. Rain.
I never thought I'd say it, but, I miss snow.

Review of The Swiss Courier by Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey

Revell Books sent me this novel to read and review.

It is August 1944 and the Gestapo is mercilessly rounding up suspected enemies of the Third Reich after an attempt on Hitler's life. Gabi Mueller is a young woman working for the newly formed American Office of Strategic Services (the forerunner to the CIA) in Switzerland. When she is asked to put herself in harm's way to safely "courier" a German scientist who is working on the atomic bomb out of enemy territory, the fate of the world hangs in the balance.


I reread the back cover after finishing the book and have to say that the above quote (from the back cover) is only a snippet of what happens in the book. There were so many twists and turns, unexpected spies and undercover agents.

I was hooked by the second chapter. Getting into the first chapter was a bit difficult weeding through the German and Swiss names of people and towns. There were several characters in the book to keep track of, but the "list of major characters" given at the beginning of the book helped.

There were some squeemish parts, but I know they didn't compare at all to what took place in real life during the war.

A great read right to the very end.

Available October 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

A Review of Green by Ted Dekker

I was so fortunate to snatch up Green from Thomas Nelson for their blog reviews. Here's a little snippet of the inside flap:

Green brings full meaning to the Circle Series as a whole, reading as both prequel to Black and sequel to White, completing a full circle. This is Book Zero, the Circle Reborn, both the beginning and the end. The preferred starting point for new readers . . . and the perfect climax for the countless fans who’ve experienced Black, Red, and White.

I haven't read Black, Red or White, so this was the starting point for me. It took a couple chapters in to figure out who was who and what different characters symbolized. There were actually three stories going on, but all merged into one as the book read on. Ted Dekker is not a flowery author. There was lots of blood, slaying and at some points, disturbing scenes. He painted the characters so well you could smell the skin disease that covered the bodies of the evil ones.

Once in to it, I couldn't put it down. Definitely a great read. Will I read the next three? Not sure yet, but I would definitely recommend this to anyone with a bit of morbid curiosity and who enjoys a great, descriptive author/storyteller.

Stop

Life seems to have all of a sudden become very full. I'm finding that working a full time job takes up a whole lot of time! Arriving home by 5:00, dinner, spend an hour with the kids and then it's bedtime for them. Hindsight is always 20/20 isn't it? When I was home with them every single day I was wishing that I could go to work and be around adults. Now those days are long gone and the kids are both in school full time. How I long for those days again of spending so much time with them. Reading to them. Playing with them. Watching them learn and grow. Now someone else gets to do that. Their friends, their teachers and those that are around them 7 hours a day. I just get a snippet.

With the roles reversed in this season of life, I have experienced a glimpse of what Ed went through working full time to support our family for several years. Coming home and needing down time, but having to take off his work hat and put on his dad hat. How difficult that is with no transition time in between? Pretty hard. Did I understand that? Not a bit. I wanted him to take care of the kids the moment he stepped in the door. I needed a break too and didn't understand why he couldn't just come in and help the moment his body entered the house. But he remembers and sees when I walk in the door if I need to not wear any hat for just a few minutes.

The past is pretty dern clear when you look back at it. But the thing is, do you learn from it? Do you see how time flies and the busier you get the less you can give of yourself to those who need you the most.

Stop. Breathe. Enjoy those little people. Enjoy your spouse.

They will be off to school all day, every day before you know it.

Time will be screaming at you that you have lists and dishes and laundry and cleaning and carpool and practices and dinner and work to do.

Ignore it for a moment.

Stop.

Breathe.

Review of The Secret of Indigo Moon

Tyndale House Publishers sent me a complimentary book called The Secret of Indigo Moon by G.P. Tayler to read and review. This is the 2nd book in The Dopple Ganger Chronicles about three orphans who find themselves intertwined in a mystery.

Erik Morissey Ganger, famed explorer and detective (well, in his dreams), and his mischief-making sidekicks, twins Sadie and Saskia Dopple, didn’t go looking for a secret tunnel beneath the school. They never intended to make the acquaintance of a shifty private eye with a nose for trouble. It wasn’t part of the plan to come face to face with an old enemy, one with an agenda of his own that could destroy them all. And unraveling the “secret of indigo moon” was the farthest thing from their minds.

This is directed more towards youth with cartoon animation interspersed throughout the pages. It was a fast paced story and even though it targets a younger audience, I enjoyed it. The writing is very imaginative and very well done. It grabs you from the first page and for an adult is a quick read. I would have no hesitation letting my kids read this when they are older. It is has clean language and can lead to some great discussion. It can be a bit tense at times so I think it's more targeted for older elementary aged kids.

Great book and I will be looking to see if this author has written any adult books.

Review of The Jewel of His Heart by Maggie Brendan

This is my first book review for Revell Books. The Jewel of His Heart is book 2 in the Heart of the West series, but was easy to jump into even though I hadn't read book 1. The book is set in the 1890's in a Montana mining town. The main character, Juliana Brady, is on her own trying to make it in life at the age of 18. This book is about her life struggles and the surprise of love.

It was a pretty easy, quick read. Some twists and turns that were unexpected, along with offering forgiveness even when the feelings aren't there. I would most likely pick this book up off a shelf and give it a try with not having recognized this author.

Available October 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

A Review of Find Your Stongest Life

Thomas Nelson is releasing a new book called Find Your Strongest Life by Marcus Buckingham. It reveals the powerful key to help women draw enough strength from life to feel fulfilled, loved, successful, and in control. Even more, he helps women reconnect with their purpose and gives a starting point for change. A research-based message that applies to work and life, Find Your Strongest Life shows women a "unified theory" for how they really can have it all . . . the right kind of all.

It was hard to jump into this book. I'm not a statistical person and the first few chapters hold a lot of statistics. There seemed to be a bent towards working women, but the overall umbrella is towards women in general. How to "have it all" as some say. Some things I had to push aside that didn't apply to my life, but the message is very powerful. "A strong life isn't what you do, it's what you feel." And just as important, "The secret to living a strong life is right in front of you, calling to you every day. It can be found in your emotional reaction to specific moments in your life." How tuned in am I to my life and those moments that make me feel alive? This book helps you discover those alive moments and then what to do with them to help you feel like you are living a successful life.

hello stranger

It's been awhile since I've actually written a non-book post. Be prepared though...more of those will be coming as I've picked up two more publishing companies to read books for.

But books aside, life is speeding by. School for Ed, Sam and Alina has entered month two with all of them busy with papers, reading, writing and projects.

I actually made dinner Wednesday night. I can't tell you how good this felt! The month of dinners in the freezer has been a tremendous help. Between Ed having night classes at the beginning of the week and me working 8-10 hours the later part of the week, those dinners have come in handy! But there is something about making a meal from scratch. It's such a soothing action which was welcomed after a long week of work.

Fall has landed here with rainy days and sunny days intermixed. One sad aspect is no apple picking. All apple orchards are a 3 hour drive away. Over the mountains to the desert side of the state. It's quite depressing actually. I loved pulling out and heating up a portion of homemade applesauce on those cold, dark, blustery evenings. Pop it in the oven with mini marshmallows on top. Heaven.

Ed's mom flies in tomorrow afternoon for a week long stay. Everyone is excited for her company! She'll be here for her 70th birthday of which the kids are thrilled to celebrate with her. She'll also be watching the kids while Ed and I fly across the country to attend Catalyst in Atlanta next week. I. Am. Beyond. Excited. #1: I get to go on an extended date with my best friend. #2: I get to attend Catalyst. It has been four years since the last time I attended. Life shifted at that Catalyst. I will never forget it as it shaped me into who I am today.

So life keeps ticking by each day. Fill it with classes and school and work and laughter and tears and conversations and growing it ticks even faster.

Review of Lonestar Secrets by Colleen Coble

Book review for Thomas Nelson Publishers
Shannon Astor returns to southwest Texas to serve as the town's veterinarian, believing she's finally found the space to get her life back on track.

Then she catches a glimpse of Jack MacGowan, the man who ruined her life years before. But even more shocking is the sight of Jack's five-year-old daughter Faith, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Shannon's own daughter Kylie. Is it possible that their similarities could be more than just coincidence? Could Faith be the daughter that Shannon has believed to be dead for all these years?

As the truth emerges, everyone is forced to take sides--in a story with a heart as big as Texas.


If you enjoy a pretty easy read, this may be a book for you. It had an easy storyline to follow and pleasant characters. No unexpected twists, turns or suspense. It didn't really grab me, but I don't think the book was meant to. A western romance novel if you will. Someone asked how I liked it right after finishing the book and I said that it was ok. Not one of my favorites but might possibly pick it up at the library if I was looking for a quick read that wasn't very deep.

Review of Fearless by Max Lucado

This is an "extra" book review for Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Imagine your life, wholly untouched by angst. What if faith, not fear, was your default reaction to threats? If you could hover a fear magnet over your heart and extract every last shaving of dread, insecurity, or doubt, what would remain? Envision a day, just one day, where you could trust more and fear less.

Can you imagine your life without fear?

This is what Fearless is about. Not only does Max Lucado talk about fear, but the close relative of fear. Worry. Not being scared of death. Not worrying about money. Not cooking up scenarios (I do this all the time!). But giving all these fears to Jesus. Easier said than done, but so well worth having a stress, worry free life.

This is a fairly quick and easy read and one that can be read over during different seasons in life. Yet another good book to have on the shelf.

Review of Faces in the Fire by T.L. Hines

Four lost souls on a collision course with either disaster or redemption. A random community of Faces in the Fire. They don't know each other, at least not yet. But something--or someone--is at work in the fabric of their lives, weaving them all together. A catfish, a series of numbers scribbled on a napkin, a devastating fire, and something mysterious. Something that could send them hurtling down the highway to disaster--or down the road to redemption. But they won't know which is which until they've managed to say yes to the whispers in their souls.

Yet again, I was skeptical getting this book. It could be cheesy. But once again, I was completely taken by surprise. Everything about this book was different. It started with chapter 34. The "2nd" chapter was 15. It twisted and turned every way possible. A very, very good read, amazingly written and really hard to put down. If you like suspense and mystery and a good read, this is the book for you. This is by far my favorite book I have read for Thomas Nelson and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read.

Beginning and end

One year.

One year ago today we walked onto an airplane headed to a destination we knew nothing about. A life full of question marks.

After a few months, I didn't think I would survive here. I was ready to pack up and head back to MI. My bubble had been popped with no chance of being glued back together.

I remember attending a picnic for Ed's school the week after we moved and listening to people who were 2nd year students talk about all the disruptive happenings of their first year and thinking, "we are pretty solid already so I don't think it's going to be that bad."

Boy was I wrong. It hasn't been bad by any means what so ever. Just disruptive, lots of tears, lots of conversations, lots of learning.

Also things like
loneliness
sadness
hate
bitterness
frustration
uncertainty
touches of depression
a shell of a smile
emptiness


Then things like
laughter
forgiveness
hunger
a different type of contentment
love
grace
mercy
stretching
learning
smiling
country music

I have found myself in situations I never dreamed I would be. I've been stretched past what I thought previously was my breaking point. But looking back, I was being prepared for where I am now.

After six months, Jesus provided a temporary job that has turned into a "permanent" position. I am now the shuga momma.

We landed in a house that I struggled coming home to every day as it's darkness seeped into my soul. 11 months later, Jesus provided us a house that is bright and full of colors and warmth in a neighborhood that is simply amazing.

Our family has been knit together even tighter than before.

I am now the wife of a 2nd year student who, I'm sure, will have the conversation with an incoming student who doesn't yet know what is coming.

Our marriage was solid, but now it is stronger, deeper. Jesus has built our 14 year marriage for this season. Difficult discussions, hard changes, learning to leave and cleave, a deeper love that I never, ever thought possible.

Loneliness still lingers with every phone conversation and e-mail with my peeps in MI, but results in more prayer for them. I love them and miss them dearly and am all the more thankful for them as I have tasted true friendship. That is a rare thing indeed.

Year one is done. Year two is beginning. What will this year bring? Only time will tell.

Reivew of God's Little Princess Devotional Bible by Sheila Walsh

Girls long to be loved and adored, and give their heart to their hero. God is that hero! The characteristics focused on in this Bible storybook will help your little girl blossom into the princess she was created to be. Virtues to create beauty such as compassion, sharing, and truth are highlighted in fun and engaging ways. The perfect format for girls to learn about their destiny as a daughter of their King.

With having a five year old daughter who loves princesses, this was a perfect fit. A nightly ritual. She reminds me when I forget. It took a few nights to realize that each section is color coded. At times the Bible stories begin in the middle of the story, so that's a bit confusing for her, but we are able to discuss what the story is about. I do like the follow up pages to the story which includes questions that she can easily relate to and at times there are little skits to act out to bring home the point that she is a true princess of the King. Also, I like how the point is emphasized a lot that you don't have to be beautiful on the outside to be loved which.

This book is a great springboard tool to open up discussions about inner beauty, life and God. I'd recommend it. :)

house hunting

At the beginning of June, we started house hunting again. We've been hoping to move closer to the kids' school and be in a more central location so we aren't driving so much. We did well finding the house we are currently in with having four days to find one when we moved out here, but we needed to be closer to where our lives are currently taking place.

Craigslist is the place to look for rentals here, so we were scouring it two, three, four, five times a day as you didn't know when a new place would pop up (and they go SUPER fast...within a day). Every house was either surrounded by trees (I've been really struggling depression wise with having a dark kitchen where you need to turn the light on even in the middle of the day as the kitchen is my haven and it's been the last place I want to be..not good) so those were out, it was on a busy street, or the neighborhood wasn't the greatest.

Then we found the house. We walked through it once. Waited a week, talked about it. Prayed about it. And walked through it again. Ed loved it and was oh so patient as I was still hesitant and didn't want to move forward until we were both ready. We talked to the owners. Talked to the realtor. Everything fell into place. Then this past week we signed the lease. We absolutely love the house. It is bright. Has colors on the walls that we love (currently we live in a white house except the bathroom which is mustard), and it is exactly 4.4 miles to the kids' school and 4.4 miles to church. All back roads. We feel it's where we're supposed to be. The owners (through the realtor) said they believe God dropped us there to rent from them and are so excited we'll be taking care of their house.

The house has not been a rental and was the owners' first house together so they have updated mainly everything. It's on a dead end circle which means no traffic which means the kids can actually go out of the driveway without worrying of being hit by a car. The neighborhood is a diverse range of ages and we look forward to meeting our new neighbors. We'll be able to take our time moving as we take possession July 23rd, but don't have to be out of our current place until the end of August (but will more than likely be out by the middle).

So between moving, VBS in 9 days, working 80+ hours over the next two weeks, it'll be pretty silent around here. You may see another post or two as there are some more changes that will likely pop up over the next few weeks. And I'll put up pictures of the new place once we're in.

Cheerio!!

my brain can't even wrap around what i want to write.
too tired to push the shift key to capitalize words.
it's fried.
and then some.
who knew vbs could take so much work!
some songs, crafts, throw in a bible story and that should do it.
right.
being on the parent side of it is so much easier than the planning side.
time to go rewrite some curriculum.
see you in a few weeks.
maybe.

more than just words

The other day I read these words which are a snipit from my friend Matt's most recent post.

I remember the day I killed the weeds.

It was after hearing my teaching pastor talk about forgiveness. He said that forgiveness is seeing the debt someone owes you and being willing to say “I’m not collecting.” That hit me deeply because that was my deal- I was still waiting to collect. I wasn’t plotting revenge through a series of menacing deeds but I held onto the debt the same. I just wanted it to be even. I wanted the scales of justice to balance out. I wanted my name cleared. I was waiting for a letter, an email, a phone call saying “I made a terrible mistake. I was wrong.” I would have settled for an “I’m sorry.”

In that moment, as those words rang both painful and hopeful in my ears, I made a decision- a decision that was as much simple as it felt impossible. I stopped collecting. Seriously. I’m not just saying that. In the midst of a bitterness that was choking the life right out of me, I stopped collecting. I felt the weeds that had been coursing through my heart die right then and there. I felt the cold roots of bitterness ripped from the earth. Through strength that was not my own, I completely freed my debtors. And that day, I myself was freed.

I've read over this portion many times and pondered his thoughts over the past days. I've been waiting to collect. For years.
But after reading Matt's words, it hit me square in the forehead. Bitterness has been literally choking the life out of me. Throw some anger and fury in the soil too and you've got a nice steamy place for lots of unhealthy things to grow. I've been holding hands deep in my soul with something that has been causing roots of bitterness to seep up into the rest of my being and into my heart.

I am praying that someday soon I will be able to truthfully say, "I'm not collecting. Or seeking justice. Or desiring my name to be cleared." To be free by only God's grace and strength.

So thank you Matt for your heart words.

To read the entire post and more of Matt's amazing writing, just click here.

Today I sit.
It is 12:00 and I am still in my pajamies.
I may hit a couple g-sales this afternoon, but then again, maybe not.
No plans.
No running around.
No work.
Just rest.
I may just stay in my pj's until dinner.
My body informed me last night that it needs a rest after 40+ hours at work this week and then home life intertwined with the MIL here and end of school.
So I need to listen or else a crash and burn ending will take place.
Very, very soon.
And nothing good could come of that.
I was in bed by 8:00.
So today I sit.
And rest.

cookbook and cookies

One of my all-time loves are cookbooks. I love the pictures. I love reading every recipe. I love when there are pictures OF the recipe outcomes.

Another of my loves is cookies. So many options, so yummy with milk, or ice cream, or warm, or by themselves. So over on Brown Eyed Bakers Blog, you can jump on the bandwagon to enter to win a cookie cookbook! What can be better than that?? It's the best of both worlds!

Head over here to enter!