Thursday, April 26, 2012

Perfect garden gloves

It seems like I am constantly buying new all purpose cloth garden gloves. I have found that latex medical gloves work great (for those without latex allergies)  for most light yard and planting jobs excellent in wet soils. When you are done take them off and leave them inside out to put around places you have problems with deer as I do.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick- Charming, Captivating and Inspiring Tale!

This book scans the life of Hulda Klager, a true story written in fictional form. Hulda's travels had taken her from Germany as a young girl to Woodland Washington. In the quest and dedication of hybridizing the perfect apple from which to make pies, her expertise grew and expanded to other areas, bulbs and then to lilacs. Her gardens, her vast knowledge of plant life, and the way she looked at each plant as individuals being capable of the giving of its beauty, quickly became a trait sought after by her admirers. Hulda did not miss an opportunity to unselfishly give of herself and the abundance of plants she was blessed with. Her husband Frank, always the encourager to Hulda's passion, saw the fragrant beauty in her creations.

Lilacs, being my favorite flowering shrub, and as a Master Gardener, I was captivated and priviledged to be a part of Hulda's journey that came to life through the eyes of a most gifted storyteller. I love reading about a simpler time and about how things that we now enjoy have originated. Once I started this book I became involved in her work and those around her that I didnt want to leave the story until I had completed it. Hearbreak, devotion, success and generousity is woven successfully throughout. The book will satisfy the gardener and historian in us all and everyone can take a part of her lifework with them! I was inspired as a gardener as well as in my faith. I was entertained and would recommend this book to others. I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.


http://www.jkbooks.com/
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400074303
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/2011/12/09/sneak-peek-where-lilacs-still-bloom-by-jane-kirkpatrick/
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=15809

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Wildflowers from Winter by Katie Ganshert- Be prepared to be entertained!

The past has a way of resurfacing whether we voluntarily invite it or not.
Bethany Quinn, architect, is successful in the business world as she has fought hard for a better life. As a child she drew comfort from her Grandpa Dan, and time spent with him on his farm was comforting, a place where wildflowers grew abundantly. Bethany's best childhood friend Robin takes her from her world and the challenges within and creates a haven where she can be feel loved.Evan, Bethany's Grandpa Dan's friend and fellow worker at the farm tries to preserve what little he has. Giving of himself tirelessly he devotes his energy cropping and tending to the animals. When a beloved family member passes a valuable gift is bestowed upon Bethany. Her first thought is to seal a business deal, but there is alot at stake and her heart hangs in the balance. As spring approaches can she draw from the strength of others amidst her own setbacks?
I loved Wildflowers from Winter and enjoyed every minute spent savoring this well written novel! The book shifts at times to the past when Bethany and Robin are younger, which creatively adds substance and depth to the storyline. A novel of hardship, romance, heartbreak and redemption will create many enjoyable hours spent getting to know these well developed and interesting characters. Dialogue and scenery worked and flowed well with no dull parts. I was entertained and found the overall message inspiring! I would highly recommend this book to others. I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.


http://www.katieganshert.com/
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9780307730381
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blog/2011/12/09/sneak-peek-wildflowers-from-winter-by-katie-ganshert/
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=145407

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Trauma Plan by Candace Calvert- A Real Page Turner!



Every life has it's own light and it's own darkness and contains secrets hidden deep.




Alamo Grace Hospital nestled in the tiny corner within the state of Texas is home to many unique personalities and emergency situations.




Jack Travis, trauma doctor at Alamo Grace, gives of himself and his time freely helping others and doing things his way.




Trauma chaplain Riley Hale is looking to prove to herself and others at Alamo Grace that she has what it takes to step up to the challenge of triage nurse. When a new opportunity presents itself to her, to help in ways she never knew were possible, her goals took on a new direction.
Bandy spreading smiles and sunshine, has a laidback way of looking at the world. He and his dog Hobo, volunteer where they are needed.




These characters along with many more add to the charm of the story.




Can trust issues be overcome, and can fear be tackled without leaving a scar?




This is the first book I have had to opportunity to read by Mrs Calvert, and I can honestly say it won't be the last. Reminiscent of ER this medical style fictional drama with it's personable and memorable characters the reader can relate and attach to, is a real page turner and extremely hard to put down. I quickly became lost in this book which is peppered with action, romance, heartbreak and some laugh aloud moments promising many enjoyable reading hours. Dialogue and scenery seemed realistic, plot flowed smoothly and character development was strong. I was entertained and challenged in my faith. I would highly recommend this book to others. I received this complimentary copy from Tyndale Publishers for my review.