Week Eleven in Review

This is late and will be short because my time last week was taken up by taking care of my mom.  She had major surgery on Tuesday the 13th and I was blessed to be able to take time off to care for her.  Surgery went well (as well as surgeries can go) and she is on the road to recovery.  The biggest issue for her will be patience.  She is a go and do person and loves to be active.  This sitting around and resting will be tough for her.

I didn't eat all that badly last week even if it was hospital food.  Fortunately, I could get mostly healthy options and managed to lose about 2 pounds.  Hoping I can stick with that this week.  Learning to focus on the spiritual battle instead of giving in to the temptation is TOUGH!  I wish I could say it was getting easier but it so isn't.  Of course, that's the battle, right?  But, this is a new day and a new week and God promises His mercies are new every morning.  Gonna cling to that one during this stressful week. (Being out always causes more work.)

Spiritually, I'm mulling over the concept in Deuteronomy of unintentional sin.  There was a whole sacrificial system in place to cover unintentional sins but I can't really find a definition I trust of the concept of unintentional sin.  Since sin is primarily a mind/heart problem, how can you unintentionally sin?  I'm not talking about accidentally making yourself unclean or accidentally taking another life, that's outlined elsewhere.  I'm talking about the actual sacrificial system around unintentional sin.  Am I mis-reading the passages?  Does anyone have a clue what I'm talking about?  Thoughts?

Since I'm taking 15 minutes out of my workday to put this on paper, I should probably get back to work.  I should have a book review coming soon with two on deck to read and review.  More next week...

Week Ten in Review

This will probably be a short check-in for a couple of reasons.  This was such a crazy busy week that I don't remember a lot of it so reviewing it will be kind of difficult.  I spent most of the week at work trying to get everything done ahead of time since I am off all week next week.  Somehow that always makes me feel more behind.  I was fortunate and managed to get everything done, I was just wiped out by the end of the week.  I have enjoyed my lazy Saturday.

Week Eleven should be interesting.  I am off from work so I can be with my mom while she has hip replacement surgery on Tuesday.  I am the person in my family who has the medical knowledge in the family and the one who can just sit in a hospital room without going stir crazy.  So, I get to stay in the hospital with her from Tuesday-Friday.  It's actually somewhat of a role reversal.  Mom has been the one to take care of us through our surgeries, illnesses and the like.  It's strange being in the position of taking care of her.  After all she's been through with me through the years, it's the least I can do.  Being in the hospital means we won't get lots of rest but Sarah's offered me her house for naps during the day so we'll make it work.

I had the opportunity to provide small offerings on behalf of two friends going global this summer and one family who is adopting.  I'm so thankful God has provided me the ability to be able to contribute to these events in their lives.  I can't wait to hear how He moves in the world as people are obedient to His call to go.  And I love the picture of the gospel you see in adoption.  I'm so thankful to be given a glimpse into the journey as friends adopt.  Such a loving response to God's call in their lives.

The weight loss and spiritual journeys have both been difficult this week.  I don't respond well to stress and my food choices reflect that this week.  I'm still working on that and know it's a journey - hoping and praying next week will be better.  Spiritually, I got behind so I'm still trying to catch up on my Week 10 reading.  I have a few thoughts running around in my head that may end up as their own blog post.  We'll see what happens.  If we can't sleep in the hospital this week, a wee hours of the morning post might happen.

I also get to look forward to basketball overdose this week.  March Madness is one of my favorite times of the year and this year, I will be with my mom, another big basketball fan.  What better way to pass time in the hospital than watching the tourney?  This year, I can watch all the games I want and not feel guilty about sneaking peeks at the games.  In fact, I'm now signing off so I can go finish watching the ACC tourney semifinal.  Until next time...

Week Nine in Review

I went ahead and changed the blog background early since the weather has decided to turn spring-like early.  The winter template just didn't seem appropriate any more.  Of course, since it was only appropriate for about seven days this winter, it is really a moot point.  I do have to say that I can't believe it's already March.  I feel like the first two months of the year flew by.  I guess that means I was busy.  Sadly, the next couple of months (March and April) are shaping up to be super busy. 

This was a mixed week.  I am super busy at work but feel something is "off."  I can't really explain it because I enjoy my job, I just feel like something is missing.  It's a strange place to be especially since I've been asked to apply for a position with another organization.  My bosses know and are supportive, it just leaves me in a weird spot. I know God has the plans all worked out, I just don't like the uncertainty.  That control freak in me comes out more often than I would like lately.  Gotta continue to pray about that.

I didn't make the best food choices this week but still managed to lose weight.  That's not really a good thing.  I have to figure out how to overcome those temptations to indulge the things that I know aren't good for me.  I can all too easily attribute it to fatigue, frustration, etc. but I have a harder time calling it what it is, sin.  Fortunately, my friend Sheryl is fighting a similar battle and blogging about it here.  I have learned a lot as Sheryl has been blogging about her experiences.  I have gained insight into my own journey through reading about hers.  It's definitely been an inspiration.  This is a spiritual battle and I am determined to use spiritual tools to fight instead of relying on so-called willpower.

We are moving into my favorite time of year.  No, not spring, March Madness.  As a sports fan, I can't decide what I like better, March Madness or bowl season.  I think it depends on when you ask me. :-)  I remember in college being able to go from game to game to game all day on Thursday and Friday and end the day on a basketball high.  For the past several years, I've had to watch scores on my computer and only watch games once I got home from work.  This year, I get to watch tournament games all day AND get paid for it.  My mom is having to have some surgery and it coincides with the week the tournament begins. I am taking time off to take care of her so as she's recuperating, we won't have anything to do but watch basketball.  Since she's as big a college basketball fan as I am, if she has to have the surgery, March Madness is as good a time as any.  In fact, the madness really starts tonight with Duke/UNC.  ACC regular-season title on the line, #1  seed probable to winner, revenge on the minds of UNC?  Yes, please.  Hollywood can't script drama like this!  Gotta go get dinner together so I can be ready for tip-off.  More next week.

The Search Committee - A Book Review

Description: A mismatched team of seven hit the road in an Econoline church van on a mission to find a new pastor. They don't agree on much other than the stops at Hardee's for coffee and a biscuit. But they stick to the call, trying to slip undetected into worship services across the Southeast—all in hopes of stealing a preacher for their congregation.

Each member is wrestling to balance their own busy life and personal struggles. And they're trying to keep their issues to themselves. Forced to spend countless hours together, these very different personalities from different generations begin to bond. And their lives are profoundly changed as they love and support each other through the difficulties in each of their lives.


Synopsis: This team is charged with finding a new pastor for their small Presbyterian church. The book is narrated primarily by Travis, a young man struggling to figure out exactly who he is and what his life means. Through countless trips, each member of the team struggles with life, their choices and the decision they are faced with. Each person changes in their own small way on the journey.

Review: I have struggled for weeks to come up with how to write this review. I was initially excited to read this book – it was a new author, a unique storyline and an award winner. I was sadly mistaken. I had to force myself to finish the book and had I not been reviewing it, I would have put it down quickly. I was hard-pressed to like any of the characters – I couldn’t really identify with any of them and I found myself frustrated and annoyed by some of their thoughts and actions. I also feel the writing was stilted and forced in lots of places. Some of the descriptions used in the book also were ridiculous. In 2012, there is no need to refer to someplace in town as “the black side of town.” I just feel writers that are setting their novels in the present day have no need to draw divisive lines about sides of towns. Use your writing to describe the community and let the reader make up their own mind. All in all, I was disappointed and wish I had chosen another book to review.

Score: 1 bookmark out of 5.

Note: Tyndale House Publishers gave me a copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Week Eight in Review

Whew, I am glad this week is coming to an end.  To say this was a crazy week at work would be an understatement.  This week was my site visit from my national funder.  While it wasn't particularly stressful having them here (I've worked with them for years), there were lots of little details that had to be addressed.  Add the short week to that and you have a recipe for stress.  It's also a somewhat strange time at work.  I have a project I was hired to work on but lately, almost everything I've been working on is for something else.  I also keep getting asked to do things before I'm finished with what was previously requested.  And everything has to be completed ASAP.  Really!?  There's only one of me and I only have so many hours in my workday.  Of course, that's a bone of contention around my office right now.  There are a couple of employees (our ED included) who work tons of hours and don't understand why the rest of us don't seem to be willing to.  I come in at 8:30 or so and work until 5:00 or 5:30 with the occasional longer day.  I'm sorry, I don't have much of a life but I guard my free time closely and I'm not going to feel guilty about it.  It makes life tense at work sometimes.  Hopefully it will slow down a little.

I did get to start the week with Sarah in town.  That was fun since I love having her visit.  I also get to enjoy the fruits of her visit since she usually cooks at least once and I have the leftovers available.  Trust me, if you ever have the option to have a pasta dish she prepares, especially if it has shrimp in it, take the opportunity. Sarah is one of those gifted people who can put in "a little of this and a little of that" and make an amazing dish.  If I tried that, the outcome would be inedible.  Being able to count on recipes are why baking is my forte. :-)

This week was also tough eating-wise.  I ended up eating out at least one meal four of the five workdays this week.  While I made the healthiest choices possible in most instances, it's still richer than I'm used to and not friendly for weight loss.  Oh well, I guess that's the way life works and I'll just get back to healthy eating this week.

I've moved into Numbers this week in my year through the Bible and it's always my toughest book.  But, in the first five chapters, I noticed less of the numbers and more of God's attention to detail.  I never really thought about the fact that while they were traversing the wilderness, the Tabernacle had to be taken down, packed away, protected and then re-set-up when they encamped somewhere.  God specified which of the tribes did what and who was responsible for what part of the Tabernacle's furnishings.  Truthfully, I wouldn't have wanted to be responsible for the Ark of the Covenant.  Can you imagine the stress?  I also noticed today that the census was done for the purposes for providing for the Levites' needs.  You paid an offering based on your "value" before the Lord.  Again, God taking care of ALL the details.

I promise I have a book review coming.  The book, "The Search Committee" wasn't a good book so I'm having trouble motivating myself to write the review.  Maybe I should see what else Tyndale House has so a new book can give me motivation.  I am reading "Just a Minute" by Wess Stafford and have "Beauty for Ashes" on deck so I definitely am not lacking for reading material.

You know, I have no idea who reads these posts but in reality, they're more for me than anyone else.  Sure, I'd love to have lots of readers but I have no illusions that my life is that interesting.  :-)  I do like the outlet to put my thoughts in written form.  Hopefully this week will be a little calmer and I can get the book review and at least one other blog on paper instead of rolling around in my head.  Until next time...

Week Seven in Review

So, another week down and I'm sleepy.  Of course, the gentle rain outside doesn't help - it's sleeping weather.  This was a good week, just tiring. I had lots of meetings.  Again.  I tire of them quickly.  Fortunately, one of my meetings was cancelled so that made Wednesday better.  I did at least feel productive about the work week - I got things moved from my to-do list to the done category so that helped me feel productive.  I also taught four Princeton Review classes this week.  That adds to the fatigue factor.  I have really smart students and many nights my brain hurts after finishing a class.  I have a few who probably won't ever get into med school but most are destined for the med school of their choice and most will probably be very good doctors.

This coming week is slated to be busy.  It's a short week - will enjoy my Monday holiday but not the extra work on Tuesday.  I have my project's site visit this week.  My national funders are coming to town and there are lots of little details that have to be worked out.  Most are already done but being a perfectionist means I'm checking and double-checking lists.  I'll be glad when Thursday night arrives and we're done.   I have no worries about the visit itself just the preparation for it.  Fortunately, I have no teaching during the evenings this week so I can come home and chill.

I did get to top this week off by a visit from Sarah.  Since she has a long weekend too, she drove up this morning.  We did our regular Farmers' Market swing to pick up dinner for tomorrow night and then saw "This Means War," a new rom-com that guys will actually enjoy.  It's two CIA agents fighting over the same girl.  It's cute and funny - you have to suspend your disbelief in some of the scenes but it was an enjoyable afternoon.  We ended our day with dinner at The Flying Biscuit, a funky restaurant here in ATL.  Yummy food and an eclectic environment.

Week Seven was interesting in my Bible reading plan too.  I finished Exodus and moved into Leviticus.  I have a love/hate relationship with Leviticus.  I often dread the monotony of the sacrifices but I always amazed at the detail God provided to Moses.  Each sacrifice was meticulously explained to Moses before it was implemented and Aaron was expected to perform it.  I also walk away amazed that the Israelites never ran out of animals to sacrifice.  Sure they were an agricultural society but these had to be unblemished animals and there were SO MANY sacrifices.  God as usual was the provider for even that detail.  Of course it goes without saying that I also walk away so thankful that Jesus took the punishment for my sins and I don't have to worry about a priest sacrificing an animal on my behalf.

I managed to somehow lose three pounds this week.  I know it happens that way, suddenly you have a major loss but considering I didn't do anything differently this week, I was surprised to see the scale this morning.  Thankful for the encouragement of seeing the numbers move downward.  It has helped to view the journey as a spiritual one instead of a diet or weight loss journey.  It gives me new ways to think about fighting temptation.

Since it's late, I'm heading to bed - I have a good book going and the rain is making me very, very sleepy.  I have a book review coming up (I really disliked the book) as well as another random blog post.  We'll see how quickly those get posted.  :-)

Week Six in Review

I can't believe another week has gone by.  I got to Friday and was asking where the week went.  Of course, since spent much of it in meetings, that's probably why I lost track.  I really dislike meetings so being stuck in at least one four out of the five days this week was an annoyance.  But, it appears I'll just have to get used to it since I have more meetings scheduled for this coming week.  Oh well, at least I have a job that I enjoy (at least most of the time).

Food wise, I did pretty well.  I lost a little over a pound so I'm down below where I was when I measured at my parent's house over MLK weekend.  I'm starting to notice it in my clothes so that's an added motivation.  Hoping to keep it up.  So far, I think it is helping my efforts to think of this as a lifestyle change, focusing on healthy eating and wise choices, as opposed to a "diet."  I really don't feel like I'm depriving myself of the things I enjoy, I'm just making better choices about what I'm eating.  And, planning ahead so I'm not having to come up with meal ideas on the fly.

Week six was interesting in terms of Bible reading.  I started Exodus this week and two things are standing out so far.  First, I think this was the first time I noticed that God set up the Israelites to plunder the Egyptians.  He didn't just save them from the Egyptians, he set them up to have the Egyptians GIVE them stuff (gold, valuables, etc.).  How cool is that?  He knew they would need the gold and valuable so He provided a way.  Wonder if that was the gold they used to build the Ark of the Covenant and the altar?  The second thing I noticed was the extreme attention to detail God had when dealing with the Israelites.  In the laws He gave, there were specifics for so many different scenarios, He obviously considered all the situations the Israelites might find themselves in.  Then when you look at the details for the construction of the Tabernacle and everything to be included there, it is obvious that God cares about the details.  It shows the importance of the Tabernacle but it also reminds me of how Jesus took the responsibility for my sins and make the details of the Tabernacle and the sacrifices within obsolete.  Thankful for that truth!

I'm working on another Pintrest project but this one isn't as simple so I'm not sure when the results will make a blog experience.  I may have to try a couple more options before I'm satisfied.  I have a problem with perfectionism. :-)

Okay, I'm off to bundle back up under my blankets since winter has returned with a vengeance and it's cold!  I love winter but this is chilly even for me. Looking forward to Sarah coming next weekend.  Week Seven's entry might be short since she and I will be having fun visiting with each other.

Week Five in Review

Wow!  I cannot believe it is already February!  Of course since we haven't had much of a winter, it's hard to believe it's actually the middle of winter.  I'm actually kind of sad because I like cold weather.  But, I am looking on the bright side...lower gas bills!  My biggest concern is how bad allergy season might be for those like me who are allergic to everything that blooms in Springtime.  I don't want to be miserable from late February until May.  I wouldn't mind a frost or two before the end of March!

This was another long week.  I started with crazy schedule last Sunday and it kept up all week - taught Sunday afternoon, Tuesday night after work, was at work at 7:15 on Thursday then taught Thursday night.  Needless to say, this blog post is the only thing that has required thought on my part since yesterday after work.  Fortunately tomorrow is a week I don't have to serve at church so I can sleep in a little tomorrow too.  Another fortunate thing is that my only night out this week is City Group - no teaching except tomorrow afternoon.  Yay for the little things like evenings at home.

Even though this was a crazy week, I still lost 1.2 pounds!  I am almost back to where I was the middle of January!  I guess it proves that as long as you plan ahead and make wise choices when you can't plan ahead, you can stay on the program.  I'm noticing my bad habits are less and less enjoyable so I'm less likely to fall into them.  I fell into it last night and had Chick-Fil-A for dinner and was miserable all night.  My system just doesn't like the junk food anymore so I'm staying away from it.  Still getting the hang of "dinner" for lunch but it is helpful to be able to come home and have an easy-to-prepare dinner.  It makes "cheating" or lazy eating less likely.

Spiritually it was a trying week - I'm struggling where I am right now professionally but can't be completely open in a public forum.  I realize it's my mission field but it's not that easy.  I want to share my faith but no one wants to listen or would be offended if I talk about ministry.  Trust me, offending would happen - I can tell from other conversations.  I'm praying through some decisions that have to come in the next couple of months.  If you want more details about how you can pray, email me and I'll share - I just can't do it here.

I have another Pintrest project to complete but I can't until it gets less humid outside and I can put the Modge Podge on it and let it dry.  The smell of Modge Podge is NOT something you want inside.  I am off to finish my week's Bible reading and then watch some TV I recorded this week.  One more book review coming soon - it's just been a tough book to get into.

Love On The Line - Book Review

Back of the Book:  Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.  Dashing Luke Palmer is more than he appears though. He's a Texas Ranger working undercover to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers. Repairing telephones and tangling with this tempestuous woman is the last thing he wants to do. But when his stakeout puts Georgie in peril, he realizes more than his job is on the line.


Synopsis: Georgie Gail is a switchboard operator living in Texas in the early 1900’s. She loves her job and her community. She definitely has an independent streak, doing a “man’s job” while living alone as a single woman. Into her idyllic world comes Luke Palmer, an undercover TX Ranger. Luke is working as telephone lineman and becomes Georgie’s boss. Luke’s plan is to gain enough intelligence in the town to lead him to the notorious Frank Comer train robbing gang. He befriends town members and at the same time, annoys Georgie no end. She’s not used to having someone looking over her shoulder. As Luke spends more time in the town, both Luke and Georgie lower their defenses and befriend each other. A crisis in Georgie’s life brings her and Luke closer together. Note…stopping synopsis here to avoid giving away the ending.:-)

My Review: I loved this book! I had never read anything by Deanne Gist before but I’m glad I took the chance. The storyline was interesting and once I got started, I wanted to keep reading. Georgie Gail is a strong independent woman without being overbearing and annoying. You also got to see her tender side, caring for birds outside her home and for Bettina, the daughter of the town drunk. I can identify with her independent, progressive “before her time” personality. I also liked Luke’s character; though gruff and serious, he cares deeply about his job and grows to care deeply for Georgie. Gist has created a mix of a mystery and romance that is quite entertaining. The story had enough intrigue to keep me reading and wanting more. I also started thinking about a twist midway through the novel and lo and behold, Gist threw in the twist. I also appreciate a story that finishes strong like this one does. Instead of forcing the ending, Gist ends the story and then includes an epilogue instead of having to reach too far. This also reads more like a regular fiction novel rather than a syrupy, sappy romance novel. The book also manages to have spiritual overtones without being preachy or unrealistic. Good book and I can’t wait to find more of Gist’s work.

Score: 4.5 bookmarks out of 5.

Note:  Bethany House Publishers provided me a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Pintrest Craft One

So I found a craft on Pintrest that I wanted to try because I thought it was attractive and the Bible verse on it was my all-time favorite.  I decided to try my hand at it.  Here's a step-by-step if you'd like to try to make one of your own.

Step 1:  Get your supplies together.  I chose to use a plain canvas from Joanne's.  If I was doing it again, I'd go with colored canvas but Joanne's didn't have it so white was my option.

Step 2:  Pick your paint colors.  I went with brown and light blue.

Step 3:  Paint the canvas the base color you choose.  I needed two coats on some spots on the canvas.

Step 4:  In your alternate color, add footprints.  I did mine in the kitchen, painting the bottom of each foot then washing it before painting the bottom of the other foot.  Be careful, don't step too hard on the canvas.

Step 5:  Add the heart in the middle above the footprints.  If you are artistically challenged like I am, find a heart somewhere (I used Microsoft ClipArt) and trace it lightly onto the canvas.  Then you can paint the heart without having to freehand it.

Step 6:  Add the handprints, I painted one hand, put the handprint on the canvas, washed my hands, and then repeated the process.

Step 7:  Write the chosen words on the canvas with a paint pen. I took the picture with it standing but I wrote it with the canvas laying flat.  I went with an extrafine, silver paint pen.  If I was doing it again, I'd go with a broader tipped pen.  You can't see the words as well as I would have liked.

Step 8:  Hang on the wall of your choice. 

I am amazed at how this turned out considerig I have no artistic talent whatsoever.  There are imperfections here and there but that's true about my life so it's a great reflection. :-)  I also like the fact that it's my footprints and handprints that make up the artwork.  This works with Micah 6:8 but I imagine there are other verses that could easily work in a similar fashion.

Week Four in Review

So far in 2012, this was the toughest week I've encountered - quiet time wise and food/exercise wise.  I was out of town for four days and not really able to select where we ended up for dinner.  I also couldn't control lunch.  Then our dinners ended up being Asian, Italian and Mexican.  Strangely enough, the Mexican was probably the healthiest of all the choices.  It just isn't easy to eat out and make healthy, WW friendly choices.  I still ended the week with extra "bonus" points, I just wasn't able to keep up the weight loss. I also wasn't able to exercise.  While the hotel had an exercise room, treadmills where the only option and those make my knees hurt too badly to exercise effectively.  So, I ended up gaining a bit but I'm still down overall from where I started 2012.  Now I'll get back to correct eating and exercising this week.  Hopefully next week will be a better week.

Spiritually, I've moved into Job during my quiet times.  It was hard staying on task when stuck in a hotel but I did manage to read each day and spent time considering what I was reading.  Job is an interesting book to say the least.  This week I've been reading the back and forth between Job and his so-called friends.  Reading his friends' responses has challenged me to think about how I offer support to my friends when they are going through crisis.  Job's friends all twisted theology to fit their understanding and offered what ended up being judgmental, unhelpful responses.  I can't bring examples of where I've done something similar to mind but I'm sure it has happened.  I am hoping and praying the next time I am confronted with this situation, I can respond more like Christ than like Job's friends.

I've been thinking a lot about racism this week too.  We've been undertaking an undoing racism project at work and our monthly meeting was this past Monday.  Often, these are tough conversations that leave me sitting with thoughts and feelings for a while.  This was a very productive conversation but I still feel like we aren't really getting anywhere.  Of course, we aren't going to get all that far because there's not been a heart change in any of my co-workers.  They are still coming at this from a secular, world perspective.  We are making steps to think about race and privilege in all of our work (hiring, policies, trainings, etc.) but as for deep, long-lasting change, I'm not convinced it comes about without the lens of the gospel.  Obviously, I'm still processing my thoughts...

I have finished my first full week with my iPhone and if you could be in love with inanimate objects, I would be in love with my iPhone.  Of course, not having my email accounts deleted is a help but the phone is just more functional than my Droid was.  I got all my music transferred over and loaded onto the iPod app on my phone.  I discovered it will work in a docking station (hotel had one) so that will be my next "techie" addition. :-)  I have also discovered a new app that will change my world while traveling.  I had a noisy neighbor at the hotel this week and my co-worker recommended I download a white noise app.  Who knew these even existed?  I quickly searched for one, found a free one and downloaded that bad boy.  I spent the next two nights blissfully sleeping to the sounds of rainfall.  Couldn't hear the noisy neighbor or noisy hotel doors banging closed.  This has changed my travelling life forever!  Yay for iPhone apps!

I have almost finished my first Pintrest craft project and hope to have a pictures and details post up later tonight or tomorrow.  I also have the book review I promised last week coming. More next week.

Week Three in Review

I somehow managed to not get the book review posted that I meant to post but oh well.  That's what being out of town and teaching twice plus working will do to you.  Speaking of teaching, I picked up a third round of Princeton Review student on Thursday night and these guys are going to give me a run for my money.  All of my PR students are smart, they're mostly Emory and GA Tech students.  This bunch though is another kind of smart.  Problem is, they want to argue everything and I do mean EVERYTHING!  Hopefully as the class progresses, they will see less need to argue and just accept that I know what I'm talking about.

Eating went really well this week.  I planned ahead for my two nights out and that made all the difference.  I was able to eat healthy and follow my Weight Watchers routine.  I'm really doing more of a modified WW since I'm not paying them or going to meetings. I'm using my mom's knowledge of their system and the tools she is getting for me and making it work.  I have had points left over most every night even having a cookie for dessert a couple of nights.  This week is my first big test since I'm out of town three nights and not picking the restaurants.  But, mom gave me some good eating out tips so hopefully I'll be able to make that work too.  Not sure of weight change yet since I'm waiting on my scale to arrive.  The scale on my Wii is a little wonky so I'm not relying on it.  I know what I weighed at the doctor on 1/4 and what I weighed at my parent's house last week (6 pounds less) but I'll be glad when I have a consistent scale to use once a week.

Spiritually, it's been more learning about God's display of sovereignty in the lives of the patriarchs.  I finished Genesis today and I'm really amazed at the way God's sovereignty is displayed over and over.  He also works things to our benefit even when we are conniving to try and work things out on our own.  I see so often how I mirror Abraham, Rebecca, and the sons of Jacob in trying to "fix" my situations on my own.  Fortunately God is smarter than I am.  This week we move into Job so there are bound to be lessons there.

Totally unrelated to anything spiritual, I got a new cellphone yesterday, upgrading to an iPhone.  My phone freaked out this week.  Again.  This time I told Verizon I was done with the Android platform, what else could they offer me.  Lo and behold, they came back with a FREE refurbished 16G iPhone4.  Woo-hoo, sold!  I got it all set up yesterday and have been downloading various apps for it since then.  If you happen to know of any good ones, leave a comment.  I'm open for suggestions.  Free is best but I'm not averse to paying if it's worth it.

I've started two projects I saw on Pintrest.  Both are initially for me but if one project works, I'll hopefully be able to do more and sell them as a fundraiser for my mission trip in November.  I'm not the world's most crafty person so we'll see what happens.  Pictures will come, I promise.

Book review to come, hopefully tomorrow or Monday.

Week Two in Review

So week two of 2012 is in the books.  Crazy week for me - working on a major project at work that is due Monday.  Spent time creating and re-creating graphs when my boss and I decided to re-do things.  We're both detail-oriented perfectionists so obsessing over the details is a given.  Fortunately I finished my portion yesterday about 4:30 so I am off the hook until she sends me the draft to read and comment on.   This week is another short week (yea for Monday holidays) but my to-do list is still a mile long so I'll be busy.

Food choices went well this week - switching lunches and dinners seems to be working.  I also added exercise to the routine so that should help things along.  I've seen small movements downward on the scale and that always adds inspiration.  I've been really working towards planning ahead for nights I'm teaching and nights I'm just too tired so I make good food choices instead of falling into the habit of driving through a fast-food place.  Should help the weight loss efforts and help the bottom line.

Spiritually, I've been thinking about a couple things this week.  I've been reading through the middle sections of Genesis and have seen several instances of the patriarchs (and others) conniving to either get their way or "protect themselves."  It really made me think about how I do the same thing repeatedly.  I've seen God work in my life over and over but still find myself telling Him "I've got this."  How foolish is that?  I'm praying about being more aware of this and repenting of it when I encounter it instead of letting it languish.  I also finished reading "Kisses from Katie" this week and came away feeling a strong desire to go back out on the mission field in a global context.  I'm praying about signing on for a trip with One Way Ministries to Guatemala to serve alongside the Browns for a week.  There is a significant cost involved but if God has laid this on my heart, He will make it happen.  I'll keep you posted.

One update from last week...tried the homemade coffee creamer, it's wonderful and a fantastic money saver.  I also tried the egg muffins.  They need less time in the oven but otherwise, were a great way to get a serving of protein in the morning without having to spend the time scrambling the egg (and washing the dishes) in the morning.

At least one book review coming soon.  Hopefully more than one.  Stay tuned.

Daily Gifts of Grace - Book Review

Daily Gifts of Grace is a little devotional book of writings from the women behind the "Women of Faith" tour.  It includes devotionals from Patsy Clairmont, Lucy Swindoll, Lisa Whelchel, Joni Eareckson Tada and more.  I haven't finished the book entirely since I want to use it throughout the year.  But, I selected a few dates at random so I could get a sense of the "meatiness" of the devotions.  What I found was an entirely mixed bag.  Some, maybe even the majority of those I read, were "fluffy" and didn't do much for me.  A few were deeper and gave me something to think about.  I'll be interested to see how my opinion changes from day to day.  One thing that concerns me a little is the price.  Close to $20 for daily devotional is a little pricey in my opinion.  I know from the way the outer cover is designed that it is being marketed as a gift book.  It would be a great gift for a new female believer but because of the cost, that isn't really practical (at least for my budget).  Maybe the publisher would consider a cheaper, paperback version.

All in all, it's a nice little devotional book for a new believer but it's not really going to do much for anyone looking for a deep, thought-provoking devotional.  I am going to use it at work during 2012 but after that, will probably give it away.

Note:  Thomas Nelson Publishers gave me a copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Score:  2.5 bookmarks out of 5.

To Serve or Not to Serve,That is the Question

You may be thinking I've lost my mind.  The title seems like a silly question to ask; of course we're supposed to serve, Jesus commanded it.  But, what does serving really mean?

This stream of consciousness post is coming from some of the thoughts rattling around in my head during yesterday's sermon. Yesterday was week two of my church's series, Resolutions.  In the sermon from Luke 22:24-27, Pastor Leonce talked about the disciples questioning of Jesus and their definition of greatness vs. His definition of greatness.  In it, Leonce talked about the use of the word serve in verse 27.  This isn't really the run of the mill serving; it's the down and dirty, thankless, behind the scenes, nobody sees, washing nasty feet serving.  And that's what got me thinking.

How many times when I'm serving am I really doing it out of a desire to be more like Jesus and how many times do I want people to like me, think I'm a good Christian, win "jewels in my crown, etc."?  Sadly, I think for me, serving has become more of the latter in my life.  I've lost sight of WHY I'm supposed to be serving and am caught up in the task of serving.  I also have been guilty of preventing others from serving because I think I know the best way to pack coffee supplies on Sundays after a service.  Really?!  I can't just show someone and step away and trust they can do it just as well as I can?  What's really driving that?  Yesterday during the sermon and in a conversation right after the service, I hit on the answer.  It's pride.  My sinful, prideful nature managed to rear it's ugly head and pervert something biblical into something worldly.   We talked after the service that it's a function of being a church plant and having been around since the beginning but I think that was just a prideful excuse to avoid dealing with the issue.  At least for me it was. 

I am repenting of that sin of pride and resolving to focus on why I'm supposed to be serving - to show Christ to whomever walks in our doors on Sunday.  It doesn't matter what people think of me, it matters that they see Christ in my actions.

Week One in Review

We'll see how updating once per week on life in general goes for a while.  I'll try to update each Saturday evening unless the unlikely (a date with a guy) happens.  If that happens, you'll probably get a breaking blog update. :-)

Week one of my new eating system seemed to work pretty well.  Of course, having leftovers from mom and dad's house helped but it was quite helpful to already know what was for dinner.  I'm also following Weight Watchers points (not going to meetings cause it's pricey) and I've done very well with my choices this week.  Hopefully tracking what I'm eating and planning ahead will help when life picks up the pace this week.  I haven't weighed myself yet since I was weighed at the doctor on Wednesday.  That weight was about where I was the last time I weighed so I have a pretty good idea where I'm starting.  Fortunately, based on my blood work results and my blood pressure, I'm healthy except for my weight.  Hopefully by this time next year, the weight will be significantly different too.

On another note, I found Pintrest and so far, it is definitely worth the time. I have found multiple recipes that are quite useful and I've tried three of them so far. One, the mug brownies, were wonderful and since it only makes one serving, can be made without feeling guilty. The second, homemade coffee creamer will be tried in the morning. The third, egg "muffins" will be tried on Monday. I'll definitely keep you posted. If you are interested in an invite and we're friends on FB, let me know and I'll invite you. Be warned though, you can lose track of time quite quickly. :-)


Week one was also a good week in terms of Bible reading.  I'm constantly amazed how re-reading Scripture, even those well-known stories, almost always reveals something new.  This week, while reading the account of the flood, I was amazed at the thought of how Noah got all the animals rounded up and onto the ark.  I wonder how exactly it happened...did God bring them to Noah, did Noah and his sons have to go animal hunting, God prompt the animals to just show up at the appointed time?  I know, you're probably thinking I'm nuts but on a certain level, it reminded me of God's sovereignty over the smallest details.  Those animals HAD to get on the boat and God in His infinite wisdom had a plan.  Scripture may not record it but you can count on the fact there was a plan.  I think that's a parallel to our lives.  We can't always see the recorded plan when life gets crazy but because God is God, we can be confident there is a plan.  Great revelations to start out the new year.
 
I'll end with what I'm making my New Year's resolution:  (1) God is God (2) I am not God (3) All my problems come from getting 1 & 2 reversed (4) All my solutions come from getting 1 & 2 back in the right order!

A Wedding Invitation - Book Review

Book Description:  After returning home from teaching English at a refugee camp in the Philippines, Samantha Bravencourt enjoys her quiet life working at her mother's clothing boutique in Falls Church, Virginia. When she receives an invitation to a wedding in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, she looks forward to reconnecting with her college friend. Instead her life collides with Carson, a fellow teacher and the man who broke her heart, and a young Amerasian refugee named Lien who needs Samantha and Carson's help to find her mother before Lien's own wedding. When the search for Lien's mother reveals surprising secrets from the past, Samantha must reevaluate her own memories and decide whether to continue to play it safe or take a risk that could change her life.


Synopsis:  Samantha Bravencourt is a thirty-something living in the D.C. area working at her mother's boutique.  She gets a wedding invitation from who she thinks is a college friend and she makes plans to head to North Carolina for the wedding.  In reality, the wedding invitation is for a complete stranger who happens to have the same name as Samantha's friend.  The time at the wedding and reception isn't wasted as Samantha meets a guy, Taylor, who she is attracted to.  Taylor continues to pop up throughout the novel and plays a significant role in the ending of the book.  Her time in NC also leads to a reunion between Samantha and her former refugee students and a former co-teacher, Carson, who broke Samantha's heart.  The book follow Samantha as she processes her feelings for Carson and tries to help a former student reunite with her mother.

Review:  This was a quick, fun read with a fun main character.  In fact, I got it read all in one day (gotta love vacations).  The back-and-forth between Samantha's time in the Philippines and the main time period of the book is a little quirky but not too difficult to follow.  I liked that Samantha had "issues" but wasn't a whiny character.  She took risks, argued with God and then reveled when things worked out like the prayed they would.   The quirky cast of characters Wisler included were an interesting lot but they seemed oddly placed.  I wasn't really sure of the purpose behind them.  Dovie, Samantha's aunt, could have played the same role by herself.  I also thought the relationship development with Carson, while enjoyable, wasn't exactly realistic, even for a fiction novel.  All in all, it was a fun read but not necessarily something to get overly excited about.

Score:  3.5 bookmarks out of 5.

Note:  Bethany House Publishers provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

The Crossing - Book Review

Product Description:  Imprisoned by memories, Claudia Campbell lives each day in the shadow of a ten-year-old murder. Who can set her free?  On the way home from a football game, a decade earlier, a masked gunman opened fire on a Texas school bus. Cheerleading coach B.J. Remington was killed, but her murderer was never found. Claudia, who had a close friendship with the young, spirited teacher, constantly relives the anguish of that day, caught in one moment in time. When her husband, the assistant district attorney, becomes determined to uncover the mystery of that tragedy, the secrets buried over the years threaten to tear their family apart.  Officer Casio Hightower will never forget the day his dreams were destroyed. A star quarterback with a promising future, Casio was on top of the world—until one bullet changed everything. He is eager to help Victor Campbell find B.J.’s killer, the man who shot him. Maybe solving the case will help silence the demons driving Casio to hurt the woman he loves.As the Campbells and Casio teeter on the brink of losing everything, will they be able to discover that what begins at the crossing ends at the cross?

Synopsis:  The Crossing is the story of Claudia Campbell, a young wife and mother who lived through a shooting on her school bus 10 years ago.  She has a life anyone would envy, successful husband and cute daughter.  Unfortunately, she's still dealing with the trauma of watching her friend and teacher die.  Claudia's husband Victor, the local assistant district attorney, decides to re-open the case in hopes of erasing some of Claudia's demons.  He's assisted by a local policeman, Casio Hightower who was also on the bus and fighting demons of his own.  As the book progresses, Claudia's mental state continues to unravel leading her to separate from her husband and parents.  Secrets are divulged that threaten to tear multiple families apart. 

Review:  I have to admit up-front that I had some preconceived notions I had to overcome while reading this book.  I won't go into them in detail here (it's not the time or place) but they did impact my review of this book to a certain extent.  As a book, it's not too bad - not my favorite but not the worst I've ever read by a long shot.  The action is fast-paced and once I got started, I wanted to keep reading.  A couple of things bothered me though.  One, Casio is a jerk of a character, an abuser who is never forced to take responsibility for his actions.  (Sidebar:  The whole issue of domestic violence is never dealt with anywhere.  Jakes misses an opportunity to do something powerful for domestic violence.  She's a powerful voice, if only she'd used it.)  Two, you read/hear the voice of the teacher who was shot as she was dying.  Seeing as how she had been dead for10 years, it just seemed strange to me.  I know it was how Jakes decided to tell the story of the shooting and the back story of the shooting, it just seemed strange to me.  I did think Jakes did a good job developing believable characters and her dialogue was solid so that's a positive.  Overall, it's not a horrible book by any stretch, it's just not one of my favorites.

Score:  3.0 bookmarks out of 5

Note: Waterbrook Multnomah gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

New Year, New Book Rating System

After two years of book reviewing, I've decided I need some sort of ranking system to help keep my thoughts straight.  Of course, these are subject to change when I feel the need but it might help keep my reviews consistent.  So, here goes...

1 Bookmark - horrible book, couldn't/wouldn't finish, book was boring, poorly written, etc.  (RARE)

2 Bookmarks - so-so book, not something worth a lot of praise but worth finishing, not a subject matter I enjoy, has characters I can't identify with, poor writing, etc.

3 Bookmarks - good book but hard to get into, slow/complicated plot, good but not great, doesn't keep me up at night

4 Bookmarks - really good book, solid character or subject development, quality plot development, pace moves quickly, keeps me wanting more, etc.

5 Bookmarks - truly fantastic book, would purchase the book myself, highly recommend to others, re-read worthy (RARE)

Notes About the System

1.  This rating system is entirely subjective.  These are my opinions only but since it's my blog, my opinions are the ones that matter.
2.  Half-points are an option and will usually be used in relation to outside factors like price, availability, etc.
3.  Suggested pricing listed on a book may impact the rating of a book.  If it's a great book but isn't affordable, what good is it?  As a Christian, I am cautious about how I spend my money and how I make referrals about products.  I've seen several great books lately that are just too expensive to rate highly.  For the record, this would probably only make a 4 book a 3.5.
4.  Don't take my word for it - READ and THINK for yourself.  The important thing is to read.

Happy New Year!!

I can't believe it's already 2012!  Where did 2011 go?  I hope to be more consistent in my blogging this year.  I often have thoughts I think are worth sharing, they just somehow end up not making their way into the blog.  Hopefully, my plans for getting healthier in 2012 and blogging about that will help spur me into more blogging.  My plans are to eat healthier and exercise consistently.  Since I'm not travelling much early this year like I did last year, I hope I can get into good habits early in the year.  I'm changing up the way I eat lunch and dinner to try and overcome the temptation to get cheap take out food when I'm tired.  I'm planning to bring a meat/veggie plate to work instead of my sandwich and fruit and have the sandwich/fruit for dinner instead.  Makes things quick and simple and gives me no excuses.  Also helps to save money. :-)  We shall see how that goes.

I also hope to blog more about what God shows me as I read through the Bible again this year.  I'm using the same plan I used in 2010 when Brook Hills did it.  This time though, I have the book that goes along with the plan we were trial running.  I'm excited about all God will show me this time.

2011 was a good year from my perspective and I look forward to what 2012 will bring!

Behind the Veils of Yemen - Book Review

Book Description: When Audra Grace Shelby and her husband felt God calling them to minister in the Middle East, she was fearful--how would she raise her children in the heart of conservative Islam? Armed with prayers and a faith that always seemed too small, the family made the move to Yemen, enduring deadly illness, uncertainty, and the unnerving experience of being Christians in an Islamic culture. Yet God was at work, and Audra was invited to see what few Christian women have seen: behind the veils of Muslim women. Here she shares about the friendships she forged, about the opportunities to minister when her new friends' hopes shriveled and their own religion faltered--and how the grace of God touched lives in the midst of an enemy stronghold. With humor, passion, and honesty, she shows readers glimpses of life deep in the heart of Islam and the yearning heart of our loving God.


Review: This book chronicles some of the time Audra Grace Shelby spent with her family in Yemen. She opens by discussing the difficult journey to the mission field, one that included a life-threatening illness for her husband. It moves into stories from their first weeks/months in Yemen. She chronicles how she built relationships with the women in her community, most importantly, Fatima, her Arabic tutor. Shelby details how these relationships continue to be built by detailing some of her encounters with the Muslim women and their personal, probing questions of her life. I could feel Shelby’s awkwardness in some of the situations she described. I loved the honesty Shelby portrayed throughout this book. She was honest about her struggles – with the culture, the heat and the inconveniences present when working in a developing country. She is also refreshingly honest in her conversations with God outlining her questions and doubts. These conversations happen repeatedly throughout the book, often accompanied by the lesson God has shown her. I really enjoyed this book and it was a remarkably quick read. The storytelling style in this book made me want to keep reading. My only lingering question is what happened after they returned to Yemen after the birth of their fourth child. The follow-up at the end doesn’t really address that and I was left wondering what happened to Fatima, did the seeds of the gospel ever see harvest? I felt the book was missing a couple of chapters. Even with that, I recommend this book to anyone interested in missions, life in the Middle East or both.

Baker Publishing gave me a copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

The Baker's Wife - Book Review

Book Description: Before Audrey was the baker's wife, she was the pastor's wife.  Then a scandalous lie cost her husband a pastoral career. Now the two work side-by-side running a bakery, serving coffee, and baking fresh bread. But the hurt still pulls at Audrey.  Driving early one morning to the bakery, Audrey's car strikes something-or someone-at a fog-shrouded intersection. She finds a motor scooter belonging to a local teacher. Blood is everywhere, but there's no trace of a body.  Both the scooter and the blood belong to detective Jack Mansfield's wife, and he's certain that Audrey is behind Julie's disappearance.  But the case dead-ends and the detective spirals into madness. When he takes her family and some patrons hostage at the bakery, Audrey is left with a soul-damaged ex-con and a cynical teen to solve the mystery. And she'll never manage that unless she taps into something she would rather leave behind-her excruciating ability to feel other's pain.

Synopsis:  Audrey and her husband Geoff were leading a church in their small town when a lie-filled scandal took it from them.  They decide to stay in town and make a living by turning a hobby into a successful business.  They work together operating a bakery and use the bakery as a way to minister to the community.  Unfortunately, an accident and disappearance shatters their life, putting Audrey under a cloud of suspicion.  A wayward ex-con ends up in their lives and carries secrets of her own.  Through a hostage-taking, Audrey is forced to solve the mystery of the disappearance in order to save her husband and son. 

Review:  This book was not at all what I was expecting.  It started slow but I enjoyed the mystery aspect of it once I got into it.  I liked the suspense in the book but I was somewhat disappointed in the ending.  It didn’t really “fit” with the rest of the book.  I can’t really put my finger on exactly what my complaint is, it just felt somewhat forced in parts.  I’m not saying that makes it a bad book or even one I’m sorry I read, it just wasn’t my favorite.  One thing to note… I’m still not 100% sure how I feel about Audrey’s “gift” of being able to feel other people’s pain/sickness.  I know the author explains it as feeling extreme empathy/compassion for others but I’m still a little uncomfortable with it.  It’s not enough for me to not recommend the book to others, it’s a good book, I’m just not sure how others may react to Audrey’s gift.  All in all, it was a good book; not my favorite but a good book all the same.

Thomas Nelson Publishers gave me a copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Attracted to Fire - Book Review

From the Back: Special Agent Meghan Connors’ dream of one day protecting the president of the United States is about to come true. Only one assignment stands in her way. After the vice president’s rebellious daughter is threatened, Meghan is assigned to her protective detail on a secluded ranch in West Texas. Unfortunately, working with Special Agent in Charge Ash Zinders may be as tough as controlling her charge. Ash has a reputation for being critical and exacting, and he’s also after the same promotion as Meghan. But when the threats escalate and security on the ranch is breached, it becomes clear this isn’t the work of a single suspect—it’s part of a sophisticated plan that reaches deeper and higher than anyone imagined. And only Ash and Meghan can put the pieces together before it’s too late.

Synopsis: Meghan is a Secret Service agent assigned to a team who's job is to protect the Vice President's daughter. The job isn't easy since the daughter doesn't really want to be protected and someone is trying to kill her. Meghan's job is also complicated by the fact her boss, Agent Zinders is a sexist who doesn't think women belong in the Secret Service. As the book progresses, Ash sees how wrong he was and as he and Meghan work together to save the VP's daughter, their attraction for one another grows.

Review: This book took a while for me to get into but once I did, I couldn't put it down. I stayed up WAY too late a couple of nights reading. :-) I liked Meghan's character but then again, I'm partial to strong female characters. I thought Mills did a good job making Meghan's character strong but not so over-the-top she came across as borish or difficult. The story progressed quite well and there was enough intrigue and tension to keep you occupied and wanting more. There were times here and there that the story was a little far-fetched but not so bad I quit reading. It was pretty easy to figure out who was the "bad guy" but Mills kept you guessing as to how Ash and Meghan were going to resolve the situation. I like a book with likable characters and this one had that. I felt the ending was a bit contrived in parts but overall, it was a good book.

I'm not sure why I haven't read Diann Mills before but I plan to read more of her work soon. I'm glad to have found another new author.

Tyndale House Publishers gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

It's Not About Me - Book Review

Synopsis: Pop culture and psychobabble tell us to make ourselves the center of the universe in order to be happy. Churches have communicated the false idea that God exists to give us all that we selfishly want. In this book, Max Lucado reminds us that it's not about us, it's all about God. It is through this shift in thinking that we can truly live an unburdened, happy life.

Review: I intially selected this little book because I thought it was a new Max Lucado book. Turns out it is a title I was unfamiliar with. Either way, I'm glad I requested it. This book is a great reminder from the title to the last page, that this life is not about us. Our lives are supposed to be about reflecting God's glory. Lucado repeatedly uses Scripture to make his points about how we are supposed to live our lives. We should be like Moses in Exodus 33, asking God to show us His glory. We should want God Himself more than the things of God. Lucado also consistently talks about God's character and characteristics, writing about His strength, His love, and His power. God has all the characteristics (and always has) and chooses to share them with us. According to Lucado (using Scripture as back-up), we as Christians are to reflect God's glory like a mirror. I love this imagery. This idea is so simple yet so profound.

While this book doesn't really reveal any great new theology, it's a great reminder of how we should live our lives. What I like about this book is the way Lucado imparts his wisdom without sounding preachy. When talking about habits/behaviors that prevent us from reflecting God's glory, Lucado uses himself for the examples. Overall I'm glad I requested this little book. I'm going to add it to my bookshelf so I can pull it out and re-read it from time to time.

Thomas Nelson Publishers gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my review.

Bloodlines - Book Review

Note: This book does not come out until September 30th. You can pre-order it at your favorite online bookseller.

This is without a doubt one of the strongest books I've ever read. I'll say upfront that I will be purchasing a copy as soon as it is available! John Piper begins with somewhat of an autobiographical chapter, detailing is younger, racist days. He is very transparent about how he used to speak to and act towards and think about blacks. He openly states that the gospel changed his heart. After that opening, he begins to delve into the gospel and discusses point by point how the gospel message and really the whole of Scripture shatter any notion that one race is superior to the other. Piper repeatedly uses Scripture to draw parallels between how God views us and how we should view others.

While this is a book chock full of Scripture, it isn't just a biblical tome on race. Piper uses the last portion of the book to provide practical advice to people on how to address racism in their lives (and churches) and how to work to end segregation in our churches. Church members everywhere should be able to take Piper's suggestions, combine them with the Scripture presented and develop a plan to fit their church's unique situation.

Because of my situation at work as part of an undoing racism initiative and my current church's entire design, this book resonated with me on many levels. I was convicted of some of my own thought patterns and am prayerfully working through what those mean. I cannot wait until my hard copy comes and I am able to delve deeper into the spiritual truths presented in Bloodlines. If you've ever wondered about race/racism adn how to address it as a Christ-follower, this book will be an excellent tool.

I received a galley proof of Bloodlines from netgalley.com in exchange for my review of this book.

Never the Bride - Book Review

Synopsis: Since she was just a little girl, Jessie Stone dreamed up hundreds of marriage proposals, doodled the romantic ideas in her journal with her treasured purple pen, and fantasized about wedding dresses and falling in love. She’s been a bridesmaid nearly a dozen times, waved numerous couples off to sunny honeymoons, and shopped in more department stores for half-price fondue pots than she cares to remember.

But shopping for one key component of these countless proposals hasn't been quite as productive–a future husband. The man she thought she would marry cheated on her. The crush she has on her best friend Blake is at very best…well, crushing. And speed dating has only churned out memorable horror stories.

So when God shows up one day, in the flesh, and becomes a walking, talking part of her life, Jessie is skeptical. What will it take to convince her that the Almighty has a better plan than one she’s already cooked up in her journals? Can she turn over her pen and trust someone else to craft a love story beyond her wildest dreams?

Review: This book has an interesting storyline to say the least. In some ways it reminds me of "The Shack" with God taking on human form and interacting with Jessie. Even more than a week after finishing it, I'm not 100% sure of my opinion. As a book, it was okay - it was a slow-starting book but I kept with it. There were times that Jessie annoyed the mess out of me and had she been a friend of mine, we would have had words. After a while, the storyline picked up and I got to the point I really wanted to see where the book was going. As a fiction book, it served the purpose I want a book to, it entertained.

From a theological standpoint, I'm much more conflicted. While I know it is fiction, there were some comments God's character made that are completely outside His character. Several times, God appeared to be humored by the distress Jessie was feeling. I just don't see God being amused by the hurt of His children. There were parts of this novel that God used to convict me of some erroneous thought patterns in my own life so it's not all bad. But, like "The Shack", this book needs to be read by more mature Christians who can separate the fictional version of God with the Scriptural version. Overall, it was a decent book but I won't be quick to recommend it to others.

Waterbrook Multnomah gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Promises to Keep - Book Review

The narrator of this story is nine year-old Roz who has recently moved to town from Minnesota to escape an abusive husband/father. One afternoon, the family finds their home's previous owner, Mrs. Tillie Monroe sitting on the front porch. She still views the house as hers regardless of the fact her sons sold the house and there is a new family living there. Over time, Roz's mom allows Tillie to move in as a housekeeper/nanny and she rightly becomes part of the family and somewhat of a mentor to Roz. Without the adults in her life knowing, Roz is sought out by her father and begins secretly meeting with him. About the same time, Roz makes a friend, Mara, who has secrets of her own about her father. As the story continues, Tillie becomes ingrained in the family and Roz's secret about her father becomes deeper and deeper. The story comes to a dramatic conclusion that I don't want to spoil. If you want the full story, read the book. :-)

This book gets off to a somewhat slow start but at a certain point, I had to keep reading and at one point, I stayed up WAY past my bedtime to finish it. Tatlock wove an interesting tale using a nine-year old protagonist but it really worked for the book. There were multiple themes running throughout the book including race, family, lies vs. truth, fear, and friendship. Tillie's wisdom provided the spiritual influence for the book - there was a presence but it wasn't overdone. This book provided a solid, interesting storyline with a great ending. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Bethany House Publishers gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Courting Miss Amsel - Book Review

Edythe Amsel ahs moved to Walnut Hill, Nebraska to teach in a one-room schoolhouse. She's headstrong and not at all what the townspeople expected when they hired her. Her teaching methods are called into question quite often by the parents of her students. One of those wondering about her methods is Joel Townsend, a local farmer raising his two nephews who just happen to be in Miss Amsel's class. Joel pretty quickly finds himself attracted to Miss Amsel. Unfortunately for him, Miss Amsel's not interested in dating. As the school year progresses, Miss Amsel finds herself wanting to take her students (especially the girls) to hear Susan B. Anthony speak on women's suffrage. The outcry from the town is predictably harsh. Will the townspeople run her out of town? I won't give you any more details so I don't spoil the book. :-)

This is a new author for me but I'm glad I found her work. While the book is a historical romance, it never falls into the sappy, sickenly sweet territory other historical romances can. I also like the fact that the main character isn't portrayed as a weakling in need of a man to save her. Sure, she has her flaws but I found myself wanting her to be successful both as the schoolteacher and in love.

I think the author did a good job crafting an enjoyable story. Once I got into the book, I found myself wanting to keep reading. The story kept moving and kept me interested. This is definitely a book I'm going to share with other people. I'm also happy that I found a new author! Gotta love that bonus...free book and a fun, new author for me.

Bethany House provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Now I Walk On Death Row - Book Review

I have to say upfront that this is one of the most powerful and thought-provoking books I've read in a good while. Now I Walk on Death Row by Dale Recinella is part autobiography and part indictment on the death penalty. The book opens with the story of Dale's past as a high-powered lawyer who is on top of the world professionally but falling apart personally. His marriage falls apart and his brother confronts him and challenges him to get his life together. He has a conversion experience and begins to study the Word and turn his life around. He spends time studying Scripture and begins to seek his purpose in life.

The question that challenges him the most (and I relate to this challenge) is 'what if Jesus meant what He said?' Recinella is moved to action by this thought and looks for ways to serve within his community. There are arguments with Catholic Church leaders about who is supposed to be concerned with social justice issues.

Eventually, Recinella finds prison chaplaincy as his calling and befriends prisoners over time. As his ministry within the prison continues, he moves to state prison and death row prisoners. He begins to witness executions and begins to question how Christians can support the death penalty. The second half of the book chronicles his experiences with several executions and he highlights the possibility that the state of Florida has executed men who might have been innocent of the crimes for which they were convicted.

This is a powerful book; the writing style allowed me to feel the emotion and the struggle Recinella went through. If you are a staunch proponent of the death penalty, this book will make you think and should lead you to question that position. There were some issues I didn't agree with him on 100% but overall, this is a powerful testimony of how God changes people and gives them a passion for His glory. One of the points that sticks with me the most is the idea Recinella said a couple of times in the book...Jesus said it. You read it. Go do it. Sounds like a great way to live life.

Bethany House Publishers provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Springtime in the Spirit - Book Review

Springtime in the Spirit by Maureen Lang is part of the Great War series and is set in post-WWI Germany. I wasn't sure what to expect since I'm not a big fan of historical fiction but I came away pleasantly surprised.

Annaliese is a part of the Socialist movement in Germany working to rid herself of the links to the Capitalistic society of her youth. She is surrounded by other like-minded individuals who use her to gain the support of the women of Germany. Christophe, a childhood friend of Annaliese, is sent to the city to try and convince Annaliese to come back to her parents' home. Annaliese though wants no part of her history or of her family. She sees them and their capitalism as the problem with society. As the book progresses, you sense a shift in Annaliese. Her nicely restructured belief system begins to crack and as violent incidents occur throughout the city, she is forced to begin questioning her beliefs. I won't spoil the ending but rest assured, the book ends happily for the main characters.

I will admit this book was a little tough to get into. The story took a bit of developing and that seemed to cause the story to drag a little. But, I stuck with it and was glad I did. The level of intrigue picked up and I had to force myself on several occasions to put the book down and go to sleep. I appreciated that the author allowed Annaliese to question her beliefs in an honest way and even toward the end of the book, she was still questioning God and how He could have allowed things to happen the way they did. You could sense the struggle the character was going through.

I was definitely surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I think if you like history, the book will interest you on multiple levels. It really explores the political maneuverings of that time period but has a sweet story in it as well. I will be looking for the other books in the Great War Series.

Tyndale House provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. No other compensation was provided.

Deeper Into the Word - Book Review

To continue with this month's theme of new authors, here's another one. Deeper Into the Word was written by Keri Wyatt who is a Bible-study author and speaker. I wasn't really sure what to expect by this book but I was pleasantly surprised. It really functions as a "souped up" New Testament Bible dictionary. Wyatt has taken the most common words in the NT and provided brief commentary or reflections for each word. With me being somewhat of a word nerd especially when it comes to Scripture, I would have liked the posts to be a little more detailed. BUT, having the shorter entries allows for the inclusion of more words. Wyatt has done an extensive amount of research on the words included in the book - I was impressed with the thoroughness of the entries. I will be adding this book to my study shelf to use when studying the New Testament.

Just an FYI, I saw online that an Old Testament version of Deeper Into the Word is due out in November of this year. Based on my experiences with this one, I'm hoping to procure the OT version too!

Bethany House Publishers provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review. No other compensation was provided.

Double Shot - Book Review

To stay consistent, here's another "new to me" author. Double Shot by Erynn Mangum was sent to me to review and I was thrilled to find this new author. This is the third in the "coffee" series but it is so easy to catch right up with where the story line is. In this book, Maya is engaged to be married and planning the wedding. But of course, the planning can't go off without a hitch. Throw in a new job offer for her, a new job offer for her fiancee (with a move) and a premature nephew and Maya is completely overwhelmed. Without spoiling too much of the storyline, I'll just say everything wrapped up quite nicely.

I really enjoyed this book. I can so relate to Maya and her need for planning and control. I could identify with her doubt and indecision. I liked that Mangum made the difficulties Maya faced seem realistic and not have an easy ending without a struggle. The author used other characters in the book to challenge Maya to trust in the Lord's timing but it never came across as preachy. I like that this is a great "chick lit" book without the nasty language and sex scenes found in other author's work. I will definitely find other work by this author. In fact, I've already downloaded another book in the "coffee" series to my nook.

I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Always True - Book Review

This was a new author for me (again). Always True by James MacDonald was a little different than most of what I review. Rather than a straight Bible study book or a reference book, this one focuses on a particular topic, the promises of God. I did like the layout - it breaks down five principles on the promises of God: God is always with me, God is always in control, God is always good, God is always watching and God is always victorious. MacDonald works through the theology of each promise, laying out the Scripture references for each promise and embedding the Scripture in each chapter. I did appreciate the Scripture references throughout but several times while reading, I felt like the material presented came across as trite. Don't get me wrong, I believe every bit of it; I'm just not sure how I would have responded if I'd been struggling with something major in my life. I would be interested to see how some friends of mine who are struggling would/will respond.

One thing that concerned me slightly was the section in promise three about God being always good. Some of this section came across as prosperity gospel (ie, if you have faith, God will bless you). It may not have been the author's intention but that's how it came across to me.

Even with my reservations, I would recommend this book with the caveat that it be read while also spending dedicated time in the Scriptures listed and in discussion with another believer.

C Grant and Company provided me with a free copy of this book from Moody Publishing Company in exchange for my honest review.

Beyond Opinion - Book Review

I've had this book for a LONG time and am just now getting around to posting the review. The time in between receipt and review should in no way imply that I didn't like the book. This is a hard-to-read book but in a good way. It is packed with well researched, well written material but takes a long time to digest completely. I found myself having to stop, re-read and then process what I'd read. I loved that the book is a compilation of writings of other authors including such scholars as Alister McGrath and John Lennox. It is without a doubt an excellent book on apologetics. I like the format Ravi Zacharias used to set the book up, using chapters based on questions from groups of challengers including youth, atheists and Islam. This format allows the reader to read through the entire book or to choose the topic based on a particular interest area. I think it would be especially helpful for those who may be building relationships with particular groups of people and want to further their ability to answer questions relating to theology and the gospel. Make no mistake, this is a hard book to read but it is worth it on so many levels. I can't recommend this book enough for believers who work to share their faith by building relationships with people.

Thomas Nelson Publishers gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Amy Inspired - Book Review

This may be one of the worst named books out there. Inspired is not the word I would use to describe Amy. Annoying, whiny, or complacent would be better choices but those wouldn't make good book titles. I was just not pleased with this book. I actually got annoyed with the main character and the choices or lack of initiative Amy took throughout the book. She keeps wanting to change things about her life but through most of the book makes no attempts to do so. The end tried to wrap things up but it ended up being too trite and forced. I really attempted to like this book but even though I finished it, I had to force myself to.

I was also left wanting a little more in terms of inspiration for me as the reader. Most books I've reviewed for Christian publishing houses have a little more inspiration in terms of how the characters interact with church, their relationship with God, etc.. It doesn't have to be overt to satisfy me but in this particular novel, it seems forced and doesn't come across as "real."

In short, I was disappointed in the book overall. It is not going in my recommend pile.

Bethany House gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review of the book.

Tandem - Book Review

I've been putting off this review because I don't really have that much to say. Here goes...

Tandem by Tracey Bateman has been my least favorite book of 2011 so far. This is a new author for me so I tried my hardest to give it my best shot. I even put it down and came back to it to try again. I just couldn't get into it. For one thing, I'm just not into the vampire genre and that's what this book was (unbeknownst to me). I don't have anything against the genre so my review isn't based on that premise, I just didn't "click" with the book. I kept hoping I would get more interested but the characters all seemed somewhat flat and the conversations were stilted. The plot line jumped around a bit and I found myself confused. I don't mind a twisted storyline, I just found this one more confusing that I wanted to put up with.

All in all, I was disappointed but it wasn't so bad that I would never pick up anything of Bateman's ever again. I just didn't click with this novel.

Waterbrook Press provided me with a free copy in exchange for my fair and honest review of this book.

City on Our Knees - Book Review

I had "City on Our Knees" sitting around for a while as other books got moved to the top of the pile. I'm glad I finally got around to reading it. Even as short as it is, there is a lot of power packed into this little book. I've read lots of these "inspirational" books before and come away disappointed. That was not the case here. Toby Mac chose stories of real people and heroes of the faith to illustrate the importance of prayer in our lives. All too often we as Christians cheapen prayer or treat our prayer lives like a cosmic "wish list." Ever since I read this little book, I've been convicted to examine my own prayer life and spend time really focusing on how I'm praying and why I'm praying. There is a particular passage from the chapter on John Hyde (starts on pg. 113) that has stuck with me...questions Hyde asked...I've continued to struggle with these questions.

I wonder if Toby Mac thought about the impact this little book would have on the prayer lives of readers. I know I walked away different. Sure, there are inspirational stories throughout but what I walked away with was the underlying concept that prayer has and will continue to change the world.

Bethany House Publishers provided me a free copy of this book in exchange for my review. No other compensation was provided.