Children's Book: God's Words to Dream On

About the book:
Fifty-two stories take children ages 4–8 through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation in a way that helps young readers see God's plan from before Creation to send Jesus to make the world right again. These carefully chosen stories teach children about God’s provision, love, and strength—the perfect truths to be in their hearts as they drift off to sleep.

My thoughts:I received this new children’s Bible story book to review. I’d like to get you about it today. It is called God's Words to Dream On by Diane Stortz  

First the illustrations are beautiful. They have a calming effect actually to me which is perfect for bedtime reading with children. The colors are soothing.
Second, I feel the stories are told at an appropriate level for children. Recommended ages are 4-8.  I feel this is pretty accurate. There were enough details provided to tell the story but not too lengthy that children will be uninterested.

Third, I like the way the story ends with a short prayer and “Good night, God.”

This would make a nice gift for a little child in  your life.  I hope you will consider it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Have a day of blessings!
    Bethany

Book: 100 days of thanks

About the book:

Focus on the things that bring you joy with 100 Days of Thanks. Short inspirational readings, space to record your thoughts, and brief Scripture references in a high-designed four-color gift book will help you find a peaceful, happier life.

The rush of a busy schedule, a barrage of disheartening news stories, and the wear and tear of everyday life can be enough to drag anyone down. Simply pausing to recognize and express thanks for the good gifts that surround you has proven to make a major difference in happiness, peace, and contentment.

100 Days of Thanks, a beautifully designed inspirational book of short readings, Scripture verses, and journaling space is the perfect tool to promote Christian mindfulness and gratitude. Whether you are looking for a thoughtful gift to encourage a loved one or a simple tool to create a habit of thankfulness, this lovely little book is a wonderful place to start.

Take a few moments out of your day to be grateful and feel your burdens get a little lighter, starting today.

My thoughts:
This book has been just wonderful to read each day.  I have really enjoyed the short devotional thoughts and questions asked to get you thinking how to apply the thought to your own life. 

This little book is beautifully done. The first thing I liked was its size.  The photos throughout really add to the beauty of the book in my opinion. It has a bookmark to keep your place as you read each day.  I found the devotionals gave me a new perspective and caused me to think about being grateful for many new things in my life. (And purple being my favorite color added to my enjoyment of the book!)

I recommend this book.  It would make a nice gift for a friend.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Have a day of blessings! 
Bethany

Children's book: Dinner for Dinos

About the book:

Dinner doesn’t have to be a disaster - just ask the dinos! Your kiddos will love this silly story about a rambunctious crew of dinosaurs who are making mealtime extra fun while learning how to grow up healthy and strong by eating all sorts of yummy foods.

Mealtime can be challenging with little ones, and Dinner for Dinos is a fun, exciting way to show your kids that eating healthy foods to grow big and strong doesn’t have to be yucky or scary.

“My mom says those who eat good foods Will grow up big and strong. I’m eating all the greens I can To make my tail grow long!”

Children everywhere will love joining goofy Stego, Bronto, Raptor, and Rex as they help make dinner, say their prayers, and clean their plates, making mealtime the best part of the day!

My thoughts:
This is a cute board book about dinos eating dinner.  My little guy and I enjoyed reading it together.  The illustrations are bright, colorful, and fun, and we enjoyed the rhyming text. 

One of the things I liked was the action verbs used.  While this seems like a simple book with fun dinosaurs, it does have some good little lessons too for toddlers like choosing healthy foods.  It also has the dinosaurs saying a prayer before their meal. 

I recommend this book to you and your favorite little preschooler. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Have a day of blessings! 
     Bethany

Book: I Can Only Imagine

About the book:

Ecourage your children’s sense of wonder and faith with I Can Only Imagine, inspired by the hit song by MercyMe. This beautiful picture book will capture your family’s childlike faith and imagination. 

I Can Only Imagine asks questions a child might ask and invites families to wonder together: What is heaven like? What does God do? What would it be like to spend a day with Jesus? Children will see that although experiencing the glory of heaven may be far off, we can enjoy a friendship with Jesus every day - right here on earth. Whimsical, playful illustrations and thought-provoking questions make this a book that families will cherish.

Fun and vibrant illustrations offer a vivid visual and will help your children see that God can be found everywhere, every day. 

I think about heaven as I look up at the skyAnd watch the fluffy clouds roll by.The more I imagine, the more I wish I knew.I wonder, would God like pancakes with extra syrup too?And if God and I spent the day together, what exactly would we do?

The Christian worship song “I Can Only Imagine” touched countless lives with its glorious representation of being in the presence of God, and this beautifully illustrated picture book invites you and your children to imagine those same wonders. Share the joy of a personal relationship with the Lord with your family today through the creative, faith-filled book I Can Only Imagine.

My thoughts:This is a sweet children's book and I enjoyed reading it.  I feel it would be appropriate for you to read with your child and discuss Heaven.  I believe it would be a comfort for a child who has faced the loss of a loved one.  The questions asked by the child in this book are real questions a child would wonder about Heaven and God.  It made me smile to read actually and the innocence of children.

I received a digital copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley for my honest review.  

Have a day of blessings! 
Bethany

Book: Slow Down

Are you familiar with the song called "Slow Down" by Nichole Nordeman? If not, I highly recommend that you click over and listen to it!  I loved it when I first heard it and used it in the birthday videos I made for our boys this year.

Today I have a book by Nichole Nordeman to share with you called Slow Down Embracing the Everyday Moments of Motherhood.

Book description:

The days are long, but the years are short.

No matter if it’s your child’s first step, first day of school, or first night tucked away in a new dorm room away from home, there comes a moment when you realize just how quickly the years are flying by. Christian music artist Nichole Nordeman’s profound lyrics in her viral hit “Slow Down” struck a chord with moms everywhere, and now this beautiful four-color book will inspire you to celebrate the everyday moments of motherhood.

Filled with thought-provoking writings from Nichole, as well as guest writings from friends including Shauna Niequist and Jen Hatmaker, practical tips, and journaling space for reflection, Slow Down will be a poignant gift for any mom, as well as a treasured keepsake.

Take a few moments to reflect and celebrate the privilege of being a parent and getting to watch your little ones grow—and Slow Down.

My thoughts:This book will resonate with any Mom I believe because we all soon come to realize that time passes quickly as we are raising our children.  I really enjoyed reading this book and the reminder as a Mom to slow down and to accept our children as they are.  The days pass and soon a new stage comes before we realize it....sometimes we are ready for that stage to be over and other stages we don't want to let go of.  But either way we need to enjoy the moments we have with our children, not trying to change them or worry over things that don't really matter.

The book has 14 chapters on a variety of wisdom and insight for mothers using stories about her children. Then it follows up with a few questions about that topic for you to consider.  There are also short little inserts from other Moms too. The pictures of children are beautiful as well and add to the beauty of the book.

This book will encourage you as a Mom!  I highly recommend it to you.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Have a day of blessings!
  Bethany

Thank You, God, for Grandma

Grandmas are important people!  Check out this new book by Amy Parker to celebrate the special relationship between a grandmother and her grandchild.

About the book:
Thank You, God, for Grandmas, Nanas and Mimis too, Gigis and Grams and Grandmommies—They’re great, grand gifts from You! 

No matter what you call her, there is nothing like the love between a grandma and her grandchild! With sweet, rhyming text and adorable illustrations, Thank You, God, for Grandma encourages little ones to treasure God’s special gift of grandmothers.

My thoughts: 
Thank You, God, for Grandma by Amy Parker is a sweet board book for little ones to share with their grandmother.  The grandmother and her grandchild in this book do all sorts of things together like play dress up and bake treats.  It reminded me of time with my Meemaw as a child and time my boys have with their Gramma.

The rhyming text makes it appealing for preschoolers to have read to them and also the illustrations are colorful and inviting.

This would make a nice gift for a grandmother's birthday, Grandparent's Day, or Mother's Day.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 


Have a day of blessings!

  Bethany

Book: I Prayed For You

I Prayed For You by Jean Fischer and illustrated by Frank Endersby is the sweetest book for Momma's and their babies.

This mother bear tells her cub how she prayed for him before he was born and then goes on to continue to pray for him as he grows up.

The illustrations are very appropriate and fit well with the book.

As a Mom with an 11 year old and a new baby, I enjoyed this book as it was accurate of all the times I pray for my boys.

This is a sweet little board book to enjoy with your children. It would make a sweet gift for a baby shower gift too.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Have a day of blessings!
 

Glory Days

About the book:
The wilderness. Maybe you know it well. 

The Israelites sure did. After all, they spent forty years wandering the desert. Victories were scarce. Progress was slow. They were free from Pharaoh but not free from fear. Saved but stuck. 

Sounds a lot like midlife misery. Caught in a rut. Stalled out. Running on empty. Are you mired in the same? 

You can name the day you became a Christian and escaped Egypt. But you can’t remember the last time you defeated a temptation or experienced an answered prayer. You’re fighting the same battles you fought the day you came to Christ. You’re out of Egypt, but Egypt’s not out of you. 

Isn’t the Christian life supposed to be better than this? 

Jesus offers abundant joy. Yet you live with oppressive grief. The epistles speak of grace. You shoulder guilt. You are more than a conqueror yet are commonly conquered by temptation or weaknesses. 

But there’s good news. With God’s help you can close the gap between the person you are and the person you want to be. Like Joshua and the Israelites, you can move from a wilderness existence into a promised inheritance. 

This is God’s vision for your life. You, at full throttle. You, as you were intended. You, as victor over the Jerichos and giants. You, minus the stumbles, hurts, and hate. 

You and your Promised Land life. 

New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado invites readers to leave the wilderness and discover a life defined by grace, refined by challenge, and aligned with a heavenly call. By studying the life of Joshua and the biblical book that bears his name, Lucado reveals God’s promises for every step and reminds readers that God still fights for them.

About the Author:
More than 120 million readers have been inspired by the words of Max Lucado. He lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy, in San Antonio, Texas, where he serves the people of Oak Hills Church. 

My thoughts:
I have read many of Max Lucado's previous books.  I was interested in his new one called Glory Days.  It goes through the study of the book of Joshua, and I found this book to be encouraging.  It gave me a new perspective on the book of Joshua, and I want to go back and read this book of the Bible again with the thoughts from Lucado's book in mind.  There are great personal examples he uses with each chapter as you find in his other books, and his writing is very easy for reader to relate to what he is saying.  Also as is typical for many of his books, there is a study guide at the end with questions for each chapter.  I recommend this book to you and hope you benefit from it as I have.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Have a day of blessings!
 

Children's book: Duck Commander Devotions for Kids

Today I'd like to share with you a book called Duck Commander Devotions for Kids by Korie Robertson and Chrys Howard with illustrations by Holli Conger.

Book Description:The first devotional for kids by the Robertson family of Duck Dynasty fame!

With the Robertson clan's flair for down-home wisdom and their wholesome family values, this devotional reveals the heart and faith of this much-loved family from A&E's hit show Duck Dynasty. The more than 6-million moms, dads, and little ones who are loyal fans of the Duck Dynasty family will love this collection of inspirational messages.

Each devotion contains a brief message, an anecdotal story from America's favorite family, a passage from Scripture, a prayer, and a "Duck Commander in Action." Not only are the messages motivational, but they are also mixed with the characters' trademark wit and revelations from their personal faith journeys. An ideal companion product for Duck Dynasty fans, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who want to grow in their faith, Duck Commander Devotions for Kids is certain to inspire little ones in their faith journey.

My thoughts:
When I saw this children's devotional book available for review, I wanted to request it for my son. He enjoys watching episodes of Duck Dynasty, and I wanted to see what this book was like.

It is appropriate for a child to read on their own or with a parent.  Each devotion fits on two pages, and there are cartoon illustrations to go with each.  I found the verses applied well to the thoughts presented on a level that children will be able to understand and apply to their own lives.  The "Duck Commander in Action" section gives a creative idea to easily apply the point of the devotion. Also I liked that the experiences and stories of various family members of the Duck Dynasty family were used in each devotion.

We have enjoyed reading this together, and I encourage you to check it out for the child at your house.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Have a day of blessings!
  

The Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible

Book Description:

The stars of the hit TV show Duck Dynasty are committed to upholding five core values both on and off the screen: faith, family, fellowship, forgiveness, and freedom.

The Duck Commander® Faith and Family Bible features new stories and testimonials by Phil, the Robertson family patriarch, and his son Al, a pastor with more than 22 years of experience. Together they offer fresh wisdom on biblical values and how everyday people can apply them to their lives.

Powered by relentless dedication to sharing the gospel and celebrating Christ’s kingdom, the Robertson family has become influential to contemporary evangelism and discipleship. The Duck Commander® Faith and Family Bible unleashes the power of their practical insight into critical faith issues, founded on God’s Word.

Features include:

• Full text of the New King James Version Bible
• A personal welcome note from Phil and Al Robertson
• 125 articles on the top 24 most-searched topics on BibleGateway
• Life application and scripture references supplement each article
• 30 days of life-changing testimonials
• Topical index and reading plans

My thoughts:

I was happy for the opportunity to review this Bible. I enjoyed using it and learning more about the Robertson family. Through the stories what stuck out to me was this family is always open to sharing their faith with everyone that comes into contact with them. There were some truly amazing stories in the 30 days of testimonials. I also enjoyed the articles throughout the Bible covering the topics of faith, family, fellowship, forgiveness, and freedom.  They are written in easy to understand language and are so enjoyable to read. 

I would have preferred that it was not written with New King James Version of the Bible but that is just a personal preference. 

This would make a great gift for any Duck Commander fans. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Have a day of blessings!
 

Along Came You

 

Along Came You by Karona Drummond and illustrated by Estelle Corke is a sweet children's book I would like to share with you today. 

Book Description:
Available for the first time as a fun and durable board book, the beautifully illustrated Along Came You is now perfectly suited for little hands and hearts. Ideal for Mother's Day, baby showers, birthdays, or any time a parent wants to express their love, this book's storyline highlights the positive ways in which parents' lives change when they have children. Author Karona Drummond, a certified elementary school teacher, employs storytelling techniques that will appeal to both the child and parent. The simple language and repetitive structure of the phrases make this a perfect read-along book that teachers, librarians, parents, and young readers will enjoy.

My thoughts:
In this sweet book a Mom tells her daughter how her life has changed because of her.  The child in the picture looks like a preschooler.  To me this would be a book that a Mom could read to her child as a toddler that could become a favorite as the child grows. I like the repetitive phrase of "before you" and "after you" used on each page.  It is just the right length as well to keep the child's attention and the right size of board book for young hands to hold on their own.

Children change all aspects of our lives, and this book celebrates those wonderful changes!  A child may not realize the way he or she has caused so many things to change, but this book shares those changes in a positive, loving manner.

Check out this book when you need a gift for a new Mom. 

Have a day of blessings!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Overextended....and Loving most of it!

I have finished reading Overextended...and Loving most of it! by Lisa Harper.

Book Description:
Would you consider your life stretched to the limit?

Are you a burn-the-candle-at-both-ends kind of gal with lots of room for improvement when it comes to creating margins for rest? But you actually love it and wouldn't want it any other way? Well, so does Lisa Harper.

In her humorous and packed-with-biblical-wisdom way, Lisa shows us that it is possible for a frazzled nature to be glorifying to the Lord. Every late-night conversation with a hurting friend and each precious, adopted child needing a little extra tender loving care-exhausting, yet imperative, ways to be extensions of the gospel. In each of these vignettes illustrating Lisa's overextended life, we learn that even in the middle of our own pure motives and hectic schedules, it is only by resting in God's sovereign mercy that we are able to keep risking our hearts to serve his people and fulfill the callings he has placed on us.

Real life . . . abundant life . . . godly life is about loving Jesus and the people he allows us to rub shoulders with well-which means some days you'll be stretched emotionally and physically. You'll feel overextended. Thankfully God will expand our hearts and calendars to accommodate the calling. He is in the business of supplying us with new mercies every morning . . . new candles to burn, for more lives needing his light.

My thoughts:
I enjoyed reading this book and it was a very quick read for me.  I think we all struggle at some point with feeling overextended in life.  Lisa Harper writes from her personal experiences and shares some touching stories.  I appreciated her openness at sharing things that have happened to her and the pains she has faced recently.  I liked her BLAST acronym which is helpful to remember when you are feeling overextended.  In this book she specifically talks about her adoption journey as a single woman.

I was reminded by reading this book that the things we do in this life for God do not always come easily.  Some times we are going to be really stretched to what we feel is our  max or something may come up that we think we would never be able to do.  In these times we have to learn from the process and know God is with us through it all. 

This book was sent to me by the Thomas Nelson Book Sneeze program for my honest review.

Have a day of blessings!

You'll Get Through This

Book Description:

You’ll get through this.

It won’t be painless.

It won’t be quick.

But God will use this mess for good.

Don’t be foolish or naïve.

But don’t despair either.

With God’s help, you’ll get through this.

You fear you won't make it through. We all do. We fear that the depression will never lift, the yelling will never stop, the pain will never leave. In the pits, surrounded by steep walls and aching reminders, we wonder: Will this gray sky ever brighten? This load ever lighten?

My Thoughts:
I have enjoyed many books by Max Lucado.  When I saw the title and information about this new one, I knew I wanted to read it.  I felt it could be a beneficial reminder to me after the loss we have experienced in our family this year. I appreciate the reminders of this book through the life of Joseph that God is wish us. 

I have always like Joseph's story in the Bible and seeing how God had a plan for him from the beginning.  In this book, each chapter focuses on a different aspect of Joseph's story, and as I was reading I realized a few things about Joseph that I had not previously considered.  I think everyone can learn something from this book and it will be an encouragement to you with whatever is happening in your life. 

Max Lucado is a wonderfully gifted author and I'm sure this newest book will touch the lives of many who are hurting.     

Have a day of blessings!


I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book through BookSneeze®.

A Hopeful Heart

Book Description:
In A Hopeful Heart, the first novel of the new Hearts of the Lancaster Grand Hotel series from best-selling author Amy Clipston, Hannah finds herself at a crossroads in her life. Her community offers her love and support after the untimely death of her husband, but an Englisher offers her the chance of a new life after her unexpected tragedy. Wealthy businessman Trey Peterson is surprised by his attraction to the gentle Amish woman who works as a housekeeper in the Lancaster Grand Hotel. They share a common bond of loss and are able to offer each other comfort and support as they journey through their grief.

Joshua Glick wants nothing more than to offer his friendship and love to Hannah and her family. Not only is he her late husband’s brother and business partner, he has always been in love with Hannah.

A Hopeful Heart is filled with surprising twists as Hannah tries to balance her life in the Amish community and her growing love for an outsider.

My Thoughts:
I enjoyed reading this first book in this new series from Amy Clipston.  I have read her books in the past and enjoyed this one as well.  When I started I really wasn't sure what would happen between Hannah, Trey, and Joshua.  It is clear Joshua cares for his brother's widow and her three children.  He hopes they can be a family someday, yet Hannah does not share the same feelings.  Hannah is very torn though with what she should do with the rest of her life and trying to figure out what is best for her and her family.  She has feelings for Trey that she cannot deny but if she chooses him instead of Joshua, everything about her Amish way of life will have to change.  By the end of the book she makes a decision, and I wonder what the future will look like for her because of her choices. 

This is an interesting story and different than other Amish books I've read.  It made me wonder if something like this ever happens in "real life" for the Amish.  I look forward to the next book in the series so I can see how things turn out for Hannah and her kids.   

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Have a day of blessings!

Moon Over Edisto

Book Description:
The past has come knocking on Julia's door. Can she summon the courage to answer betrayal with love?

Julia’s best friend, Marney, broke up her parents' marriage years ago. Now Marney shows up at her Manhattan apartment, asking the impossible—come home to Edisto Island to care for the half-sisters and half-brother she has never known. Marney, recently widowed, has lung cancer. There's no other family to care for the children while she’s in the hospital following surgery.

Julia loathes Marney. But if she doesn’t step in, her own mother—who has never gotten over the divorce—will be called upon to take care of the children. So she heads to South Carolina to keep the peace.

On Edisto, she begins to reconnect with the place and the people and she’s been running from her whole adult life. There’s the local doctor who once stole a kiss from her on that very beach, and the siblings she’s never known—especially the sister with selective mutism named Etta who’s the keeper of nearly every family secret . . . including the very one that just might bind-up Julia’s long-since shattered heart.

My thoughts:
This was a super-fast read for me!  I didn't want to stop reading.  Julia has her own life in Manhattan, a life that she has planned out, far from the pain and heartache of her childhood home.  When Marney shows up asking her to come care for her children following her surgery, it seems unthinkable for Julia to agree.  I just can't imagine the emotions this would cause to go through this.  I appreciated the way  Julia handled the situation.  She learned so much about herself and others in her family as she dealt with her past. I did keep wondering as I read when we would see Julia grow spiritually.  There were several times I thought that was coming but it was not present in the book. 

This book was so enjoyable to read, and I recommend it to you if you are looking for a quick, easy read with a touching story.  

 I don't remember ever reading anything by this author, but I will look for more of her books in the future.  One more thing: Isn't the cover pretty?


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Have a day of blessings!

Grace

Have you read the new book by popular author Max Lucado?  It is called Grace. 

Book Description: 

Grace.

We talk as though we understand the term. The bank gives us a grace period. The seedy politician falls from grace. Musicians speak of a grace note. We describe an actress as gracious, a dancer as graceful. We use the word for hospitals, baby girls, kings, and premeal prayers. We talk as though we know what grace means.

But do we really understand it? Have we settled for wimpy grace? It politely occupies a phrase in a hymn, fits nicely on a church sign. Never causes trouble or demands a response. When asked, “Do you believe in grace?” who could say no?

Max Lucado asks a deeper question: Have you been changed by grace? Shaped by grace? Strengthened by grace? Emboldened by grace? Softened by grace? Snatched by the nape of your neck and shaken to your senses by grace?

God’s grace has a drenching about it. A wildness about it. A white-water, riptide, turn-you-upside-downness about it. Grace comes after you. It rewires you. From insecure to God secure. From regret riddled to better-because-of-it. From afraid to die to ready to fly.

Grace is the voice that calls us to change and then gives us the power to pull it off.

Let’s make certain grace gets you.

My thoughts:
I have enjoyed reading this book as I have enjoyed other books by Max Lucado.  He has so many good books, and this one is another good to add to your library.  I believe the message of this book will be well received by many readers because this is something we all can relate to....trying to be good enough or do more or be successful in order to earn God's love.  None of those things are needed though.  And that is the point of this book.  The reader is reminded of what grace is and gives examples of people (both from the Bible and other modern day examples) who have given and received grace.  Another thing about grace is that once we realize the magnitude of the grace we have been given, we need to show that grace to others.  This isn't something we can do in our human selves. 

I liked this quote in the book and want to leave you with this:
"You are loved by your Maker not because you try to please Him and succeed, or fail to please Him and apologize, but because He wants to be your Father." 

I received this book from the Book Sneeze reviewers program for my honest review.

Have a day of blessings!

Book Review: The Blessing

I have finished a book called The Blessing Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance by John Trent & Gary Smalley.

Book Description:

Every human needs the gift of "the blessing"—the unconditional love and approval that comes from a healthy relationship with one's parents. In this update to the best-selling classic The Blessing, coauthors John Trent and Gary Smalley offer a fresh perspective on this life-changing gift with solid, practical advice on how to lay a secure base of in each child's life.

The Blessing powerfully communicates biblical truths on how to instill self-worth and emotional well-being into others based on these five essential elements: meaningful touch, a spoken message, attaching high value, picturing a special future, and an active commitment.

My thoughts: 
This is an updated version of a book, and I did enjoy reading this book for the most part.  It seemed a tad repetitive in parts and I felt like I was waiting for the part of how to pass on the blessing to children.   

The book is based on the Old Testament account of Jacob and Esau.  It is a great book for parents but is also appropriate for anyone who works with children as they too can have a role in giving the blessing.  It can be helpful to adults as well who missed out on the blessing in their childhood. 

The message of this book is one that parents need to hear.  Children need to have "the blessing" from their parents and this book can equip parents to make sure they do that. 

I would recommend this book for parents and it would make a nice addition for church libraries.     
Have a day of blessings!
 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Review: "Rejoice" CD

One day on Facebook I saw a post from BookSneeze about a CD available for review called Rejoice by Women of Faith. 

Some of these songs were familiar while others were new to me.  One I particularly liked was called "Greatness of our God."  I love that it ends with "Great Is Thy Faithfulness."  I look forward to listening to this again and again; it's already on my iPod.

There are 10 wonderful songs on this CD.  If you enjoy listening to music in your home or while you drive, this is a great choice.  It would also make a nice gift.

From Thomas Nelson:
  REJOICE captures the unbridled joy, awestruck adoration, and reverent worship audiences experience over the course of a two-day Women of Faith event.

Includes:
1.Beautiful Redeemer
2.So Good
3.Forever Reign
4.Come As You Are
5.Hosanna
6.Our God
7.Glory To God
8.You Brought the Sunshine
9.Greatness of Our God
10.Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Let us rejoice and be glad today! Psalm 118:24

Have a day of blessings!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book review: Max On Life

I have finished reading Max On Life by well-known author Max Lucado.  In this new book, the author of 25 years answers 172 questions he has received.  These questions fall under the categories of Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-nots, and Hereafter. Also included are both a topical index and a scriptural index. 

I enjoyed reading this book and found several questions I myself have often wondered in my life.  This would be a great gift book to give someone who needs some encouragement.   This is the kind of book you can pick up and read through or pick up and find answers to questions you may have using the handy topical index.  While this is a different style of book that others by Max Lucado, it is still very enjoyable to read.  I recommend this book to you.
 
Have a day of blessings!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book review: Eat Your Peas for Mom

I would like to share a nice gift book with you Eat Your Peas for Mom by Cheryl Karpen with art by Sandy Fougner.

This short little book is a way to tell Mom "thank you" for all the things she has done for you through your life and let her know you noticed and appreciate her today. I really enjoyed the added art in this book. It feels very fresh with the bright, cheerful colors. If you want to encourage your Mom, this would make a nice Mother's Day gift.

There are other books in the "Eat Your Peas" series as well if you would like to check those out.

Have a day of blessings!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”