Posts Tagged ‘books’

Well, I found a sweet treat for my friends today on the might WWW.

Check it out.

Rachel Star Thompson has offered a free copy of her book World’s Unseen online

http://www.rachelstarrthomson.com/free-stuff/free-ebook-worlds/

yes, free!

I love it when Authors are generous so we can get a taste of their writing with a book or two.  When you live out in the country like I do, going to the library isn’t always an easy option (or if you have 4 little people who don’t usually let you go there w/o some sort of seriously grandeous production of potty trains lol)

So, check it out.  thanks Rachel!

Okay I loved this book!  This was a great way to start of my summer reading!
Vanish by Tom Pawlik.  It is the first book in the series, with a release of it’s second out in May called Valley of the Shadow.

It was an easy read, but fairly dark.  I first thought of  the movie I Am Legend with Will Smith (but not quite so gross).  I’d consider it more on the thriller side.

What’s the book about?

Basically a few people are left on earth and drive around looking for others, while being sometimes attacked by these big crazy “observers” that sometimes just observe and whisper, and other times show their teeth and grab people.  These people seem to be wondering around aimlessly trying to figure out what’s going on; confused by the hallucinations and other occurrences happening around them.  But is it really what it seems?

Tomorrow I’ll tell you a bit more what I think about the book! In the mean time check out the CSFF Blog tour participants this month!
Brandon Barr Justin Boyer Keanan Brand Grace Bridges
Karri Compton CSFF Blog Tour Stacey Dale D. G. D. Davidson
Jeff Draper April Erwin Karina Fabian Alex Field Beth Goddard Todd Michael Greene Ryan Heart Christopher Hopper Joleen Howell Becky Jesse Cris Jesse Julie Carol Keen Krystine Kercher Margaret Rebecca LuElla Miller Eve Nielsen Nissa John W. Otte John Ottinger Donita K. Paul Epic Rat Steve Rice Crista Richey Hanna Sandvig Chawna Schroeder James SomersSpeculative Faith Rachel Starr Thomson Robert Treskillard Steve Trower Fred Warren Phyllis Wheeler

“Have you done any serious business with God lately?

Are you dealing with any difficult people?

Are you faced with any seemingly impossible situations?

God looks on the heart of each woman.  When you get serious with God — When you get real honest and pour out your soul to Him –He will faithfully replace your empty with the fullness of His peace, whether he removes your burdens or allows them to remain.”

Doesn’t that just say it all right there?   He is so faithful to replace our emptiness… we so need to remember that!

If you haven’t seen my previous posts, I’m discussing Broken into Beautiful by Gwen Smith.   I have been reading it this week and have been challenged with some of my own “impossible” issues and mistakes,  and honestly I’ve felt my heart lifted after this book.  It really opened my eyes and gave me some peace that I needed… and help me give a few more of my “issues” over to God instead of clinging onto them the way I stubbornly do at times.

I would thoroughly recommend this book to people who are struggling or can’t feel like they can get over their issues… who may think that God isn’t big enough to cover their issues.  Because He is!  It really is a great example of how God can turn our brokenness into beauty.   You can really get a feel for Gwen’s desire for us to be closer to God and through her own trails and trails of others she helps us realize the only hope we can rely on is God’s. 

What did I really get out of this book (other than a good read?)  I felt a lot of comfort and courage from this book.  More than anything, I think it will help you understand that God loves us and wants to hold our burdens (big or small) so we can truly understand his peace and compassion.    The beauty of this book is it encompasses a wide range of issues we face as women -abuse, infertility, betrayal, secret sins, etc.  and lays it out for you to see you’re not the only one struggling and how God can help you, heal you and ultimately use you for His Glory.

And I’d be surprised if you don’t shed a tear or two while reading this! I’m actually surprised at how much this book choked me up.

I think Gwen also provides me with a bit more courage to share my testimony that only a handful of people know.  It helps me to realize that my mistakes and pain can be used for His Glory and can possibly help someone else come to know him better.

If you’d like more info,  visit Gwen’s website: www.gwensmith.net

or check it out at Christianbooks.com in the link below!

Broken into Beautiful: How God Restores The Wounded HeartBy Gwen Smith / Harvest House PublishersIn her first book, singer, songwriter and cofounder of Girlfriends in God Gwen Smith tells the real-life stories of women with shattered dreams, shameful secrets and damaged souls . . . and how God touched their lives to make them beautiful again. You’ll meet women wounded by infidelity, abortion, widowhood, abuse and other tragic events, only to discover the joy of being restored by a loving heavenly Father. If you’re in need of God’s transforming touch, reading this book will empower you to believe truth, to remember His grace and to live for God’s greater purposes.

What are you reading?

Have a great weekend!

I hope you enjoyed the song/video yesterday.  The words of it can touch so deeply if you’ve been broken before.  It really describes the transformation of God’s love on our lives.

Broken into Beautiful by Gwen Smith.

If you haven’t read it, you will find Gwen straight forward and encouraging.  Her writing is easy to read– as if she’s sitting beside you having coffee and chatting with you.  In the first chapter “Behind the smile” had me crying by the end of it.  I could understand the slide from being a “good Christian girl” to how did I end up here in this big mess of worthlessness.

What’s it about?

If you’re like most women, you have things in your past you’d like to forget.  The result?  Guilt.  Pain.  Shame.  You feel unworthy to move on, to serve God, to be free, and to know peace.  While the enemy loves to shackle you with accusations, the Lord loves to extend grace and forgiveness.

In Broken into Beautiful, sing and songwriter Gwen Smith invites you to hear the stories of women with shattered dreams, shameful secrets, and damaged souls… and of the loving heavenly Father who makes them beautiful again.

He can restore your brokenness too.  Experience the unconditional love of Jesus and how it can change your life, and then stand back and watch the wonder of grace at work.  He is willing to eternally forgive and forget and to transform your life into something beautiful.

One of the quotes that got me was from the second chapter – “From Worthless to Precious”.

“I’m constantly tempted to define my worth with activities and accomplishments.  I’ve come to realize, however, that way of thinking is a spiritual dead end.”

Does that first part ring a bell with anyone?  Growing up, that was drilled into my head.  Perhaps not intentionally, but all the same I knew that what I did (or didn’t do) was important and if I didn’t compete for the “highly valued things” I was not worth much.  Those activities I hated, and never being “as good as” so and so.. as I thought of university I never felt like the choice I wanted was as good as what “I should do”.  I look back and think, man if I could do it again, I wouldn’t have listened to that voice in my head… I would have done what I loved from the start.  I wouldn’t have believe that lie.

Now the second part of that quote… a spiritual dead end. 

I have felt for years that I’ve been trapped in a vicious cycle.. playing those scenarios over and over in my head.. but it gets me no where fast…  It takes away from our relationship to God, and we need to understand that it really is a spiritual dead end.

Gwen really helps you understand that no matter what sin — God can change you.

I really felt that she had some interesting insights that I had never thought of before.  For example, in chapter three – “Guilty to Forgiven” she talks about Adam and Eve, and how in their best efforts to cover up their shame it was “ineffective before God” (using fig leaves), and how God had to provide the covering for them.  I have never thought of my sin in the same way… how Eve’s little sin of the apple.. just a bite was similar to my failures.. one bite at a time… and how no matter how I try and hide them, it’s pointless — unless I go to the cross I can’t clean up the mess on my own.

 Look for the conclusion of this book later on this week!

And if you’d like more info,  visit Gwen’s website: www.gwensmith.net

I came across this article:

Most Britons have lied about the books they read.

It basically says that 62% have lied about what books they have read (mostly classics).  But what was really interesting was that the Bible was on that list!  It was a small survey, but basically 2% of the people surveyed lied about reading the Bible.  I’m not surprised… actually – I was expecting it higher.

What do you think?  Do you ever “pretend” to read books? (hehe, yes, I get a kick out of that!)  While I don’t think I’ve pretended to read a book I will admit I don’t always remember some of them. For example I’ve read several Orson Welles books when I was a child, and don’t remember much about them, except they were better than when Tom Cruise tries to play them in the movies!

I’m reading Slumdog Millionaire this week, but won’t have it done til monday seeing i’ve had a few busy days this week.. has anyone read this or seen the movie yet? it’s had lots of nominations.

Go ahead and laugh.  It is a pretty funny picture of me being super woman (though I like the blonde haha), but I feel that I need to be more often than not.  Don’t you?

Are you Superwoman?

Taken from Chapter Five, Our Superwoman Delusions, here’s a little test you can try if you’re not sure!

• I have a hard time saying no.
• I feel guilty when I don’t accomplish everything that needs to be done.
• My to-do list never gets completed.
• I try to please everyone as much as I can
• I think it’s very important to keep a spotless house.
• I don’t like to admit that I can’t do something that’s asked of me.
• I tend to over-promise and over-commit myself.
• There are many things I really want to do, which causes me to take on too many projects.
• My children, husband, coworkers, or boss run first to me when they need help with anything.
  

If you’re like me,  you’re a wife, mother, chauffeur, maid, chef, laundryman, party coordinator, mail delivery, farmer, and the list goes on.  You have to juggle everything  and than some.  You have a hard time saying no to things, because you feel you should be able to do it all!

I have to say Mr. C and I had a good laugh and were jibbing each other with what false guilt was all weekend.  He kept saying “Don’t throw your false guilt on me!” than laughing.  And as funny as it was, there was some truth in it.  We can laugh because we were playing around about it, but the it happens probably more than we care to admit when we feel like we should be saying sorry or doing something that  has been thrown on us as false guilt.  We feel as if we are solely responsible for everything that happens around us.

Mary Whelchel, in her book Why Do I Always Feel Guilty?: Breaking Free from What Weighs You Down. describes and helps us with our “Superwoman” delusions.  Mary describes the Superwoman delusion as “… we can know in our minds and with our logical, right-brain analysis that we cannot do it all and therefore we have to say no sometimes.  But we refuse to say no because we’ve entertained this delusion for so many years that we must prove ourselves or our worth to others.“

How much does that hit home!! And she questions if it is a pride thing? I mean are we really motivated, or do we feel that way because we want the praise of others for it?  I’ll be the first to admit it sure feels nice sometimes when others “respect” me for my work.  And while it feels good I really need to examine my motives sometimes over this subject. I love that Mary questions us in this line because sometimes we forget what we’re really working for!

Honestly, I wasn’t sure how Mary could add anything to this book after the first 3 chapters.  It was a study all on it’s own, but she brought out so much more information that I NEEDED to read – like the chapter mentioned above.

I think the one that is a real nail biter is Chapter 7 – An Overly Active Conscience.   How revealing this was for me!  I  can’t remember when it hasn’t been an issue for me, and I have never thought of it as part of guilt!  Boy did this chapter speak to me.

Other topics covered are comparisons, condemnation, and managing guilt.

I hope you’ll find this a great resource and something that could be a choice for a women’s study group.

If you haven’t read it, why don’t you check it out!

Why Do I Always Feel Guilty?: Breaking Free from What Weighs You Down. By Mary Whelchel

If you missed Part One of my review you can check it out HERE

Visit Mary’s website: www.christianworkingwoman.org

I feel guilty so often.

I feel guilty if I don’t do enough,

I feel guilty if I do too much,

I feel guilty when things just happen, and I can’t control them!

I feel guilty for far too many things!

Why Do I Always feel guilty?

That is a great question isn’t it?  Mary Whelchel answers this question in her latest book called:  Why Do I Always Feel Guilty?: Breaking Free from What Weighs You Down.

I’ve just started this book, and I’ve got to tell you Mary begins it with a punch.  I mean it is bizarre to pick up a book and have someone say things that I haven’t really told anyone.  It’s one of those books you can relate to on so many levels if you’ve been beat up by guilt in your life.  (I’m not sure there are many of us who haven’t been!  I think she says what most of us feel when she says she’s “come to the conclusion that living totally guilt-free is a nice cliche, but rarely achievable for any length of time.” I mean you can’t get more honest than that!

So why do we feel guilty?  Well as Mary explains in her book there are two types of guilt that we can fall subject too – true guilt and false guilt. What is the difference between the two?  While true guilt is that feeling of God’s conviction over areas that we have resisted to obey him,  false guilt is the guilt inflicted on ourselves.

Our relationship with God is broken when we fall into the guilt traps and it reeks havoc on us, not just emotionally, but physically as well.

Mary goes onto explain that we can recognize the differences between false guilt / true guilt and how we can have freedom from it! (sorry, you’ll have to read the book to find those answers out! ha ha).  Her answers are laced with the Word, which I found extremely helpful.

I will say that it is wonderful to know that God isn’t being mean when we have true guilt on us, he is giving us the opportunity to obey him and rid ourselves of the burdens we are trying to carry ourselves!  King David was a great example of someone who was in the throws of true guilt and found forgiveness when he surrendered it to God!

Join me on Monday for more about this book!

Visit Mary’s website: www.christianworkingwoman.org

“Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5

Oh how that fits this book! Tricia Goyer’s new book Every Sunrise will pull at your heart strings.  It’s part of the Guideposts Original Series Home to Heather Creek series- book Seven.  Don’t worry if you haven’t read the rest, it’s easy to read this one alone!  Tricia writes in an easy to read style that will keep you going!

Being from the prairies myself, I found this book very warm and full of the familiar.  It will tug at your heart in more ways than one!

The book teaser:

The bleak winter days make February on Heather Creek Farm a test of endurance, and as winter wears on, Sam becomes more and more withdrawn and unhappy. Bob is busy planning a surprise for Charlotte, and Christopher is excited about a local writing competition, while a Valentine’s Day flower from a secret source lifts Emily’s spirits. But when Sam disappears from the farm one night, chasing a memory of the father who abandoned them all, Charlotte and Bob need all the help—and prayer—they can get to bring him home safely. This broken family needs God’s help like never before, but their trials remind them all that every sunrise brings a new beginning.

Don’t forget to leave a comment here and get a chance to win a copy of Every Sunrise!! I’ve got one to giveaway! Get an extra entry if you’re subscribed to my rss feed, and even a 3rd entry if you’ve never posted a comment here before! Contest Open for all of March!!!

Tricia’s Blog and contest for Every Sunrise! : You can get a chance to win the entire Heather Creek Series at her blog! or a copy of the book!  http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com/2009/02/every-sunrise-blog-tour-and-contest.html

Where to buy the book: http://www.guideposts.org/heathercreek/linked_pages/book7.html

And check out what others have to say about Tricia Goyer’s new book Every Sunrise:

3/3

• Deborah at Comfort Joy    http://comfortjoydesigns.blogspot.com/
• Amy at Amy’s Random Thoughts   http://www.amychristopher.blogspot.com
• Amy at The 160 Acre Woods    http://the160acrewoods.wordpress.com/

3/4

• Mindy at Ponderings of the Heart    http://philippians4verse8.blogspot.com:80/
• Laura at Wild Things    http://www.texasokie.blogspot.com
• Margaret at The Cappuccino Life http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/cappuccinosmom/profile/

3/5

• Miralee at Miralee’s Desk    http://www.miraleesdesk.blogspot.com
• AnnMarie at More Than Just A Mom   http://afriedrick.blogspot.com
• Jill at Christian Work At Home Moms    http://blog.cwahm.com

3/6

• Laura at Lighthouse Academy    http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/
• Diane at Diane’s Place    http://lenadianejennings.blogspot.com/
• Christy at Christy’s Book Blog    http://christysbookblog.blogspot.com/

3/7

• Kate at A Simple Walk    http://asimplewalk.blogspot.com/
• Sarah at Real Life    http://www.reallifeblog.net

3/9

• Patty at Fresh Brewed Writer    http://freshbrewedwriter.blogspot.com/
• Amy at My Friend Amy    http://www.myfriendamysblog.com
• Janice at The Nearsighted Bookworm    http://www.thenearsightedbookworm.blogspot.com

3/10

• Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood    http://www.thezenofmotherhood.blogspot.com
• Revka at Our Family Porch    http://ourfamilyporch.blogspot.com
• Patty at Girlfriends in God    http://patty-girlfriendsingod.blogspot.com

3/11

• Jendi at Jendi’s Journal    http://jendisjournal.com
• Lizzie at A Dusty Frame   http://adustyframe.com
• Leticia at My Daily Trek    http://shadowbearcat.bravejournal.com/

3/12

• Lena Nelson at A Christian Writer’s World   http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
• Angie at God Uses Broken Vessels    http://godusesbrokenvessels.blogspot.com
• Deborah at Books, Movies and Chinese Food    http://books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com/

3/13

• Deena at A Peek at My Bookshelf    http://deenasbooks.blogspot.com
• Melissa at Bibliophile’s Retreat    http://bibliophilesretreat.com

3/14

• Melody at Kids, Cakes, Dishes, Laundry…In That Order    http://www.kidscakesdisheslaundry.blogspot.com
• Heather at Mumblings of a Mommy Monk    http://mommymonk.blogspot.com/

So last night I didn’t get to sleep until 5 am this morning… ya… you heard me right.

I couldn’t help it.

I was cooking all day (perogies, cabbage rolls, sausage, and pumpkin crumble), had company til about 8pm (of course I couldn’t resist an evening coffee with them, which I don’t normally do), and thought my little bit of dry cough was acting up, so I wanted to sleep and took a Tylenol flu relief…. ya.. well.. coffee an hour before and flu meds don’t mix… I couldn’t sleep.. sure I could breath easier lol.. but I was wide awake.. so I thought I’d read.

I’ve been in a bit of a reading rut lately.  I was trying to read one book and just wasn’t able to get into it so I thought I’d take a break and try something else.

With Valentine’s Day approaching I picked up my copy of Lori Wick “White Chocolate Moments“.

I was expecting a short sweet love story.  I didn’t actually read the back of the book when I picked it out.  I was an emotional picker for this book — I mean any book that has a box of delicious looking chocolates and chocolate in the title has to be good right?

And Lori Wick.  I know she writes tons of books, but I’ve never actually read one by her before.  I’ve heard good things, so I thought sure lets try it.

The first half of the book is about Arcineh Bryant’s childhood.  I really wasn’t sure where it was taking me.  You follow her through the tragic loss of her parents dying at age 11 and that she moves to her grandfather’s house where he just doesn’t get it.  I actually wasn’t sure that I was reading a Christian book.. I mean it was beautifully written, and I couldn’t put it down, but I really wondered why it was a Christian book… there was no mention of anything… until the second half of the book.

Now, you know it’s a good book when you read half way through a book non-stop only to realize the story was unfolding and the inclusion of the beginning was now beginning to make sense.  My heart was melting and I could just feel so much for Arcineh as I watched her heart break through this.. not to mention be mad for her at same time… (about this time I realized it was 2am and that couldn’t put the book down til I was finished! Yikes! lol).

As Arcineh moved to adulthood God’s love pushed forward and began to help me understand why she went through the things she went through… why I’ve gone through some of the things I’ve gone through, and how God’s mercy is enough.  It’s not often that I actually get that out of fiction — that I feel like I’ve learned more about myself.

The only thing that really surprised me was at how quick the “Christian” values came into play by the second half of the book.  It really took a big jump from being nothing or extremely subtle to BOOM.. all out God!  Which I like.  I am not complaining, it was just surprising.  As I’ve read Janette Oke and a few others who are just subtle through out or very soft on their God focus which is okay– it was really interested to see that Lori had taken the time to capture the reader first and than share the gospel in full force!

On a side note, I will say, while I was checking out the book online I came across an article about this book that complained about the constant repetitiveness with the friction (or rather lack of climax in Arcineh’s family — that it really didn’t make sense… redundant little fights… well… ummm.. ya… ummm… NO.  It wouldn’t make sense if you’ve never lived through it and don’t understand how naive people are to those around them causing havoc… the mean people (see my emotional blackmailers post lol)… those of use who have fought those demons/are still fighting those demons will totally understand this, and actually feel the connection to Arcineh because of it. Sorry, I know that probably sounds snotty, but I’m serious.. those little fights drive families apart — I’ve watched them drive several families apart… I think Lori was right on the money with this… she made the situation more real and less dramatic yes.. but it was so I could relate… me.  Her target audience… and it worked because it hit home for me…

As for Valentine’s Day.  This book was fitting.  It was about both romantic love and real love, reconciliation, and the joys of what a real family is.

Okay, praying for sleep this week!

What are you reading today?

Vintage Shoes – Collecting and Wearing Twentieth-Century Designer Footwear By Caroline Cox

All my shoe lovin homies.. oh you’re in for a treat with this!  I had to stop drooling (which isn’t a pretty picture lol) while looking through this book.

I love love love shoes.. I used to say.. I don’t smoke’ I buy shoes.  I use the money I’d spend on cigarettes and buy shoes… lol yes…. that was me… weird… but me.. sigh.

Since my children have come I find it a bit harder to wear 4″ heels while holding a baby or trying to walk a 3 year old down the street, (or for that matter on the farm haha) but it doesn’t stop me from dreaming.

I think Christian Louboutin says it very well about heels in the foreward; “High heels give you time to think, to look at your surroundings– a camel has seen more in life than a very quick horse!  Women should live to the rhythm of high-heeled shoes!”

I can giggle over this, as my re-introduction to heels since babies has been a slow walking experience and I know exactly what he means.  I stop and enjoy the sights a lot more when I’m wearing my heels (but don’t tell anyone that it is b/c I’m still freaked out that I”m gonna knock someone over when I go down lol)  I’m building up my stamina to wear them again… someday!  For now the 2″ will have to do!

Okay, so the book!  It shoes shows styles from the 1900′s – 2000!  It is a very interesting progression of shoes to see.  I recognized a lot of my shoes — and where they originated from in these pages and what they were inspired from!

After going through this book I am inspired to try more shoe styles and get away from my classic black… my favorite below, which similar to the black paillette Very Prive peep toe.

:

So for all my shoe lovin girlfriends, this book would delight!

Show Me How: 500 Things You Should Know Instructions for Life From the Everyday to the Exotic
by Lauren Smith, Derek Fagerstrom

This book is kind of neat!  There were a lot of fun/interesting ones that gave me and Mr. C a good laugh.

some of the ones we enjoyed checking out were:

• how to make the perfect bed
• dance steps
• tell time with a potato clock
• the color coordinating wheel
• how deliver a baby in a taxi (hey.. ya never know!)
• treat a snake bite (that’s one i gotta worry about lol)
• tie basic sailing knots
• twist a balloon dog
• do a Mohawk
• how to get out of a straight jacket (hehe so i can make my escape off the funny farm! )

and a lot more.

They have a wide variety of unique and oddly entertaining things that were amusing to read about, while fitting in some basic skills (like making a bed properly, and cooking eggs in a variety of methods) that make it an interesting book to have.  Some are straight out bizarre (but amusing none the less!)

This is one book,  I would probably buy for my brother, or someone like Mr. C.  who loves knowing things for the sake of knowledge- in fact he grabbed it to read before I could even get it out of the package… his kind of book!! ).  Its a book for “how to junkies”  the DIY’ers! lol.   There are lots of ideas that we can try with the kids as well (like the potato clock)!  Though I wouldn’t let me kids read this book – it is meant for adults. That being said, I will mention there are a few things like how to make a voodoo doll, that i could do without – though understanding some of it on a basic level like this book shows can  actually can be useful I think…  This book covers a whole deal of things things in a very wide spectrum.  

My absolute favorite is #140, which is “Identify men’s facial hair styles.

We had a bit of fun with this one:

PJ looked great with his ‘stache,

and Miss E tried the “Walrus” on.

I see some Einstein similarities, don’t you?

I found out Mr. C technically doesn’t have a goatee, but a “circle beard” who woulda thunk!?

The kids enjoyed a few moments of “being daddy”! it was very cute.

So for sheer amusement, I have the page of facial hair attached! feel free to print it out and give it a try!! Just click on the thumbnail below for the full sized pic!

Overall it’s a fun book.  I have to admit, but it will probably make a very good “bathroom book” lol.  I mean that in a good way.  Each topic is a page or less, with lots of pictures, so it’s easy to browse while your “sitting”  Okay, that sounded just funny… I think I need to go try #84 and identify beef cuts by staring out my window at my cows! ;p

Now

If you have a moment, check out their site: http://www.showmenow.com/  the graphic is totally cool!

What’s in your book bag?

Diamond of Darkhold ~ the fourth Book Of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

It’s been several months since Lina and Doon escaped the dying city of Ember and, along with the rest of their people, joined the town of Sparks. Now, struggling through the harsh winter aboveground, they find an unusual book. Torn up and missing most of its pages, it alludes to a mysterious device from before the Disaster, which they believe is still in Ember. Together, Lina and Doon must go back underground to retrieve what was lost and bring light to a dark world.

In the fourth Book of Ember, bestselling author Jeanne DuPrau juxtaposes yet another action-packed adventure with powerful themes about hope, learning, and the search for truth.

Have you heard of this series yet?  I know there are a variety of books out their for our youngsters, so I thought I’d test the waters by reading some of them.  Stuff my children will be interested in shortly.

I actually enjoyed this book.  This sci-fi book has a great lesson for children who give up  too easily when a challenge is too hard or difficult for them. It was an easy read for me and though I know I got lost in a few places, I’m sure if I would have read them in order it would be much easier to understand!  The characters were likable and the book moved swiftly so you could get into it.  This series of books is for kids ages 9-12.  It could be read out loud to younger ones (I’m actually going to read it to Miss H shortly as I think she would probably enjoy that!).

I really like the fact that the novel sends a message of  inspiration and encouragement to readers!  I enjoyed it enough that I am going to get the first book and check out the movie!

Earlier books in the series are:

• The City of Ember
• The People of Sparks
  
• The Prophet of Yonwood

And there is even a movie coming out in October!  I’m actually stoked to see it now that I’ve read the book! and the fact Bill Murray is it! I hope it comes here!

————————-

The list of participating bloggers is as follows:

01 Charger, the 160acrewoods, A Childhood of Dreams, A Christian Worldview of Fiction, All About Children’s Books, And Another Book Read, Becky’s Book Reviews, Book Review Maniac, Cafe of Dreams, Comox Valley Kids, Dolce Bellezza, Fireside Musings, Homeschool Buzz, Hyperbole, Looking Glass Reviews, Never Jam Today

sites to check out:

Jeanne’s website: http://www.jeanneduprau.com

www.booksofember.com

If you’d like to win an advance reading copy of this book! For yourself or someone, Leave me a comment let me know if you’ve read any of the previous books in the series and if you so, which was your favorite!  (if you haven’t read any of them, that’s okay too! what a great way to try and win one right?)  If you sign up for my feedburner you get an extra chance to win!

Contest closes Thursday October 9th 2008!

Okay!  Here’s my (starter)  Fall reading list!

1. Breaking Everday Addictions – Finding Freedom from the things that trip us up by Dr. David Hawkins
2. Love Starts with Elle by Rachel Hauck
3. The Diamond of Darkhold by Jeanne DuPrau
4. The Bravehearted Gospel by Eric Ludy
5. Set -Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy
6. White Soul by Brandt Dodson
7. Original Sin by Brandt Dodson
8. Get Cozy, Josey! by Susan May Warren
9. Suspicious Minds by Christy Barritt
10. The One Hundred ~ A Guide to The Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own by Nina Garcia
11. The S.O.S. for PMS – Practical Help and Relief for Moms by Mary M. Byers
12. and a few more i’m sure will sneak it’s way onto this list!

I hope you’ll join me with some fun fall reading on those cold days when there is nothing more exciting than sitting snuggled up with a warm cup of tea to read!  If you haven’t seen “Fall into Reading” before, click on the logo above and head on over to http://www.callapidderdays.com to join in the fun!

Hi,

My name’s Amy, and I’m an addicted to… shopping, computers, photography, coffee…..  There is the addiction of having just one more cup of coffee b/c I deserve the break from the rowdy children…  or maybe it was the just one extra little chocolate that I deserve b/c i’ve sacrificed my day…..than there is the addiction of buying just one more stamp set b/c I need a stress outlet (yet I have a zillion in the closet that I don’t use).. or don’t get me started on my shoe collection (which has had to restart up since it’s the only thing that fits since I’ve had my children..)..let’s not forget about my ebay buying…. oh wait, I don’t do that one.. (yet lol)… I’m sure I can think of more if given several hours of your time.  I joke (somewhat) but

The truth of the matter is, we can be addicted to many things.

“…let’s make a list of ever day addictions.  Let’s take a look at the activities and substances that can hook us.  Let’s look at the ways we can lose our souls to the power of these addictions, relinquishing our ability to choose what is best for us along the way.  Here are some ever day addictions:

• drugs, alcohol, and gambling
• food, caffeine, and sugar
• sex and pornography
• work and perfectionism
• codependency, approval, and worry
• spending, shopping, and coupon – clipping
• television, video, and video-gaming
• exercise and sports
• love, romance, and romance novels
• money, accumulation, and success
• religion
• email, internet, and chat rooms
• cell phones
• power and anger

Do I have your attention yet?

Breaking Everyday Addictions ~ Finding Freedom from Things That Trip Us Up!

by Dr. David Hawkins ~ The Relationship Doctor

This book made me double take and re-think a lot of things lately (like my coffee addiction.. yes, I admit it.. I’m addicted and get darn grumpy if i don’t get my coffee lol..)  laughing aside,  I appreciate Dr. Hawkins book because it  really makes us dig deep in our life… all of us are prone to addictions and no one is immune.  It goes on to discuss how family’s can help and how families hinder addictions (even though they may think they’re helping!)  It discusses those issues we all have dealt with as women (ie. Barbie Doll Syndrome – ya know being the perfect size 6.. or 0 these days).  But it also covers more of today’s issues like video games, internet surfing (gulp), chat rooms, cell phones, blogging, and internet addiction disorder…

The bottom line that Dr. Hawkins points out is that “Besides taking us away from ourselves, addictions take us away from God.” He points out biblical issues that “Jesus knows the folly of chasing after riches….(see Matthew 6:21). I love how he uses practical and straightforward advice, as well as God’s word and wisdom to help us through our issues.

a few of the chapters you’ll find in this book are:

• Sexual Sanity
• Chasing your losses
• When Pleasing Others is Hurting You
• Facing Our Addictions
• Letting Go
• Healing Our Addictions

So if you’re looking for some self improvement and want to deal with your own addictions (yes, even the coffee..) or know of someone in your family that needs help, this is a great place to begin and end.

Am I changed after reading this book? I think this book has made me aware of some things I hadn’t thought about (or denied to acknowledge out loud), so yes.  I am hoping to change some of my addictions.. to put my life back in focus.  It reminds me that I’m still prone to past attractions and that I need to keep myself recovering as opposed to believing I can touch the stove and not get burnt.

Check out David Hawkins website: http://www.yourrelationshipdoctor.com/

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What are you reading this week?

*Don’t forget to sign up for my September giveaway if you haven’t already (see the pink button on my sidebar!!)

This past week has been soooo rainy.. and more rain is in store for here.. at least we’re lucky its not snowing yet! (give it a month right? lol)  We’ve watched too many movies and our driveway if you saw my WFW a few weeks back will give you a good idea of how mucky our yard gets.  WELLLLLL

Rainy Day Games – Fun with the Animals on Noah’s Ark by Andy McGuire is a perfect book for days like these!    I don’t showcase children’s books too often, but this one really caught my attention.

The illustrations in this book are amazing, and my children, especially Master P (4yr) went nuts over all the animals in the book!  Rainy Day Games is a fun book that will keep you guessing what will happen next!   My children (ages 5-1) all found it interesting!  They loved to point out the animals, and Miss H was thrilled she could now recognize the letters (especially the H right? lol)

My favorite is the Double Dutch dart frogs.. or should I say that’s my son’s favorite.. seeing he’s Dutch lol.. and frogs are pure fascination these days!

The pages of this book are really well illustrated.  I must admit that  I’m quite surprised that a book written and illustrated by the same person has such an amazing captivation with my children (if that made sense??)  The word imagery goes so well with the illustrations that it feels like it has come to life for us! Like it’s dancing off the pages!  Mr. McGuire is very talented!

I even found a neat post/video about the book on Godtube.com

So if you’re looking for a fun book for your children that will encourage creative learning, this is a great choice!

In an interview with Andy he has another book coming out in 2009

What’s next? Do you have any upcoming projects to tell us about?

I’m hard at work on a Jonah story. It’s told from the perspective of an angelfish who has been recruited by God to find the perfect fish to swallow Jonah. She interviews a lot of candidates, but it’s tough finding just the right one for the job. It’s called A Special Fish for Jonah and should release in June of 2009.

I’m looking forward to seeing that one as well!

What are you reading these days? Or to your children?

Now there is a tough title if I’ve ever read one.  BUT how many times do we feel like we need to be that way (non-compromising), yet don’t have the ammunition to do it?

Conviction Without Compromise – Standing Strong in the Core Beliefs of the Christian Faith by Norman Geisler and Ron Rhodes

Ever wondered about how to talk with believers who disagree with your beliefs without compromising sound doctrine? In this remarkably clear presentation, Norman Geisler, one of the nation’s leading apologetics experts, teams with Reasoning from the Scriptures president Ron Rhodes to explore the well–known saying “In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, charity.”

Beginning with essential doctrines such as the inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture, Christ’s deity, and 14 others, Conviction without Compromise provides solid scriptural defenses while showing how various movements have moved away from historic, biblical Christianity.

Then the authors show why Christians can disagree agreeably about more than a dozen important but nonessential beliefs such as the nature of spiritual gifts, the role of women in the church, and the nature of sacraments.

Finally, the section on charity highlights some “rules of engagement” and explores lessons learned from church history.

A must–read for Christians who care about sharing their faith.

Wow.  This one has taken me a while to get through.  I’ve enjoyed it, but struggled through it because it has a bit more big words lol (yes my mama brain doesn’t function fully anymore lol).  I consider it more in depth, and more technical terminology (or perhaps that would be theological terminology), so those looking for a deeper understanding will appreciate this book.  I’ve found a lot of good things in it that will help re-affirm what I believe and why I believe it.

I found it very interesting that they go through and dispel some of the false thinking non-Christians or those who don’t know their Bibles very well and have based their faith out of tradition or someone else’s comments.  It gives you the name of the issue (ie. There is only one G-d) and than gives you all the Biblical references that promote that concept and explains some of the other ideas floating out there (ie. there are many gods, the idols are demons, etc.)

It will supply you with a wealth of information on most topics you can think of!  While you can read this book straight though, I would suggest keeping it as a reference book when you need help!  That’s how I’ll be using it.  For example if our care-group is having the discussion of baptism, I’ll go to chapter 22 The Candidate, Mode, and Efficacy of Baptism,  and read up on the different takes on it

• the need for baptism, the type of baptism (pouring, sprinkling and immersion),
• adult vs infant baptisms.
• Is baptism necessary for salvation
• belief
• circumcision is not analogous to baptism
• arguments from the practice of the church are inadequate
• is a condition for being baptized and infants can not believe.
• baptism is an outward symbol of an inner reality
• the dangers of extremes on baptism
• areas of agreement on baptism

and the list goes on…..

Seeing we have a diverse group of people who come from various backgrounds, questions of these sorts pop up all the time.  Conviction without Compromise provides you with the text from the Bible so you have the answers from G-d, and understand where some of those questions stem from (what philosopher, or other religion).

I hope this gives you an idea of the book and it’s wealth of information!

For more information:

Visit Norman’s website: www.ses.edu

Visit Ron’s website: www.ronrhodes.org

While I really wanted to write a post today about the new book I’m reading!

O2: Breathing New Life Into Faith by Richard Dahlstrom , but I didn’t quite finish it yet, so you’ll have to wait to next week to read my review! All I can say it’s amazing! But that’s all i’m going to say! I don’t want to give it away until than. Next week you’ll hear more!

So new books! What are you reading? What are you reading to your children?….

Read more over at the PMS Club

Okay I’m thrilled. It’s finally done.

My new book is hot off the presses at Blurb! Take a sneak peek and place your order if you’re so inclined…

It’s a book release, and you’re invited — come check out my new book at Blurb:
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/invited/105465/a7fc52a512317f39576a2f776398b72f

I know some of you are thinking, no big deal. It is for me. I’ve spent a long time putting this together. I’m thrilled with the result and happy that it’s done (so I can work on the next book! lol)

I just finished going thru the Ultimate Tea Diet.

I’m posting a review for it on the PMS club in February about it. It’s a really neat book. I’m actually impressed with it. We’ll see how it goes in a few days here with the whole losing weight thing.

so week 1 – coffee craving reduced, feeling fuller, feeling even keeled.

I’ll be posting next week to see if there is a difference. I’m going on an 8 week trial of this! Wish me luck!

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