Friday, June 29, 2012
Almost Amish by Nancy Sleeth- Enjoyable and Informative!
The author makes suggestions of what worked for her family to mimic the frugal lifestyle of the amish peoples. Some of the topics included in this book are (in my own words): how to save more and spend less, what to do about clutter, what to give away and what to keep, family ties, and so many more ways of life and many useful solutions from an amish and non amish standpoint. Before the end of each chapter is summing it up, an excellent tool to read in case something was missing in the chapter. Also included are recipes that are Almost Amish.
I found that I was able to devour this book in a little over an evening and felt it to be helpful in trying to incorporate some of the amish practices into our own home. I was entertained and learned some things in the process. I would recommend this entertaining book to others and especially to those who feel they need a boost in the area of becoming more sufficient and resourceful.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
The Last Plea Bargain by Randy Singer- Loved this fast paced thriller!
Caleb Tate, defense attorney, becomes a suspect in his wife's murder. He believes he is innocent and is confident that her killer will be found.
Jamie Brock, assistant DA, whose mother was killed long ago by a convicted murderer seeks restitution for the senseless act. Her father lies in a bed suffering from a stroke and she promises to obtain justice no matter the cost.
Mace James, attorney to the convicted murderer of Jamie's mom, has seen much from the other side of the bars, but will it be enough to spare the life of another?
Highly entertaining this is by far the best courtroom and attorney drama/suspense I have read thus far. Believable characters, new and crisp storyline and a plot that promises many twists, turns and surprises with absolutely no dull parts! I was held captive by this fast paced thriller and could not put down the book. Very well written! I found it to be a faith challenging read and will be recommending this book to others.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Implosion by Joel C Rosenberg- Will grab your attention!
Is America spiraling quickly to a cataclymic ending? What does our future hold? Are we living in the end times? This book answers these questions along with many more. Accurate viewpoints of current and past political figures are captured within this book. Our countries past seems engrained resulting in the startling present times in which we live. Topics discussed in length for example include national debt, natural disasters and the book of Revelation.
A startling and revealing book is how I would describe this eyeopening read. I am not one who follows current events per se like my husband does, but I admit that this book held my attention throughout as I was completely focused and found that in many parts it was impossible to put down. I did learn alot and when discussing it with my husband he admittedly knew about some topics I brought up but was unaware of others ie: specific dollar amounts being alloted to certain projects and the rapture. Full of well documented past, present and future events this well written volume is organized, easy to read and grasp and will cause the reader to stop, think and reflect. I will recommend this well written book to others, 5 stars!
Thursday, June 21, 2012
NPK What it is on the fertilizer bottle and why choosing the right one is important
All fertilizer bottles have a breakdown of the nutrients it contains.
N stands for Nitrogen- A higher number is for the green growth of a plant for example 24-8-4. Most beneficial are plants that do not flower, for example: kale, lettuce, grasses and lawns etc which need more to produce lush top growth.
P stands for Phosphorus- A higher number is for the flowering of the plant. For example 8-24-8 Plants needing this fertilizer are for example tomatoes, squash, daylilies, annuals etc. Select a fertilizer with a higher number to ensure lots of blooms.
K stands for Potassium- This number is for the root development and general vigor of the plant.
N stands for Nitrogen- A higher number is for the green growth of a plant for example 24-8-4. Most beneficial are plants that do not flower, for example: kale, lettuce, grasses and lawns etc which need more to produce lush top growth.
P stands for Phosphorus- A higher number is for the flowering of the plant. For example 8-24-8 Plants needing this fertilizer are for example tomatoes, squash, daylilies, annuals etc. Select a fertilizer with a higher number to ensure lots of blooms.
K stands for Potassium- This number is for the root development and general vigor of the plant.
The Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren- My Review
Buried memories always seem to float to the surface struggling to be acknowledged.
Noelle has come to a crossroad in her life. She is quite unsure of the pending outcome of her decisions.
Eli in his frozen icehouse haven that at times brought loneliness and thoughts of his present struggles, he quietly wonders what the future holds.
When an accident leaves Noelle without recall of the past 25 years of her marriage and life with Eli, her family struggles to cope as Noelle attempts to regain the life that was taken from her. Despite overwhelming odds is it possible to recapture what was once valid or will the past be buried forever in the snowy backdrop of Deep Haven?
Envy, heartbreak, pain and romance blend well to create this touching novel. Character development was strong, dialogue was easy to keep up with, and here at the start of summer I could just feel the snow and ice crunching under my boots and it was refreshing! I have read novels similar to this one in storyline before but was surprised at how it held my attention throughout as I connected with the characters and heard their conversations and felt what they did. I found the overall message to be inspiring and the novel challenged my faith. I would recommend this entertaining novel to others.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Traveler's Rest by Ann Tatlock- Excellent All Around!
Traveler's Rest... a town with historical purpose has long played host to weary travelers, offering a relaxing place to rest their hats and their hearts.
Jane is willing to do whatever it takes to keep life the same and the surroundings familiar and comfortable. Will her heart lead her to where she has been searching for all along?
Seth, fiance of Jane, is injured in IRAQ while serving in the armed forces. His promises may not know of the future but his heart remains constant.
Truman, physician, is always running from the past, but will he be able to find a place where he can be free?
An unforgettable story of loss, heartache and tenderness this novel willingly held my attention throughout and quickly became impossible to put down. This very well written novel offers well rounded and personable characters, realistic dialogue and impeccable scenery guaranteed to captivate and stimulate the reader and one that kept me up reading through the night. A faith inspiring keeper book, one that I will come back to again and reread at a later time, the storyline flowed well containing absolutely no dull parts, and is a book that I will highly recommend to others. Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for my complimentary copy for this review.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
When the Sandpiper Calls by Peggy Darty- The Start of a Great Series!
Christy Castleman, local author, lives on Shipwreck Island. A place rich in history of pirates, treasures and shipwrecks. Bonnie Taylor, a good friend and member of the Red Hat Chapter Sassy Snowbirds of Summer Breeze is always encouraging of Christy's work.
When a corked bottle is found buried in the sand on Shipwreck Island with no evidence of footprints surrounding it, a note inside tells the reader to contact the police. Christy and the Sassy Snowbirds have a mystery on their hands. When a local resident turns up missing Christy and the Snowbirds work against the clock to try and solve this mystery at the risk of their lives while someone watches in the distance.
Promising twists, turns and a surprise ending I really enjoyed this cozy mystery! Suspense and romance along with well developed and interesting characters, I was entertained and felt the book was a good choice for the time spent and found it was hard to put down. Dialogue and scenery worked well together creating no dull parts. I was challenged in my faith and will recommend this well written book to others.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Named by God by Kasey Van Norman- Highly Recommended!
What does it truly mean to be named by God?
The author tells of the struggles she has overcome, the mountains she has climbed, and what she has endured to get there. She offers solid advice to readers on how to obtain love and happiness while dealing with the battles within and obstacles on the outside threatening to prevent us from becoming the person God has intended us to be. The target audience is women. Bible passages and stories are highlighted throughout this book that have much meaning to the material being presented and discussed.
I feel there is something in this inspiring and faith challenging book for every woman. I found myself within the pages about my challenges as a Christian, and know I will be able to apply some of the principles the author has discussed. I learned alot and appreciate the author's style of writing, compassionate and graceful, and thoroughly enjoyed spending the time devouring this helpful, truthful and down to earth read. Highly recommend this well written nonfiction book! 5 Stars!!!! Get to know yourself and others the way that God knows you... by name!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Mary Magdalene by Diana Wallis Taylor-Biblical Fiction Comes Alive!
What is the price of one's freedom in comparison to a lifetime of sorrow?
As a young girl Mary's father Jared commissions her friend to begin teaching her the Torah, a privilege not usually afforded to women. On one fateful night her life rests in the hands of greedy and ruthless individuals. An illness as a result envelopes her, leaving in it's wake a horrible name. Who will deliver her from the pain and suffering that imprisons her?
A most enjoyable, and impossible to put down biblical novel that promises excitement, grace and accuracy from a most gifted author. Historical figures come to life in a familiar story but with a new storyline and a fresh voice. Well formed bright and vivacious characters seem like old friends rather than just personalities in a novel. Dialogue, description and scenery blended together expertly leaving no holes, dead ends or dull parts. Like her previous novels Journey to the Well and Martha, Mary Magdalene will capture your heart, hold your attention and leave you hungering for more! I look forward to reading more from Ms. Taylor. I was challenged in my faith, highly entertained and found the overall message to be very inspiring! I will recommend this well written novel to others. Thank you to Revell Publishing for my complimentary copy to review for this blog tour.
Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Diana Wallis Taylor is the author of Journey to the Well and Martha, and has published many articles, and has contributed stories to several books. Taylor lives in California. Find out more at http://dianawallistaylor.com/.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Winning Balance by Shawn Johnson- My Review
The authors hope and dream is to compete professionally and then onto the Olympics in the sport of gymnastics. When she was just a tot her career began at Chow's Gymnastics and Dance Institute. At home in Iowa she was a normal girl whose life was balanced, she kept a journal, watched cartoons and had a pet named Dude. She loved every aspect of gymnastics and she possessed the dedication and fortitude to succeed.
I enjoyed reading about what a typical day was like for a gymnast and the rigorous schedule she kept. This charming book is an inspiration to other young athletes. Quite refreshing was reading her testimony and how faith has made an impact in her life. I was entertained getting to know this personable young woman through her writing and would recommend this book to others especially to young girls who need direction and encouragement on how to have winning balance in their lives.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Night of the LIving Dead Christian by Matt Mikalatos- Imaginative and Creative!
Do you really know who your neighbor is?
With werewolves, zombies and vampires on the loose is anyone safe? Matt, Hibbs and Culbetron are trying to find the perfect gadget to scare off monsters but while doing so they encounter challenges and obstacles they had never thought of. With insightful words from the werewolf Luther, his thoughts on life and religion he embarks on a quest to finding the one truth we all search for.
A novel that will cause you to ponder "What if?" At the start of reading Night of the Living Dead Christian I got into the right frame of mind to appreciate the books style. I pictured myself watching monsters on the TV and superheroes dressed like normal people in combat against them. I was glued to the pages and as I kept turning them I discovered how drawn I became into the storyline and the more I felt as if I were a "part of the movie" being played.
Extremely imaginative and creative, with serious moments intertwined with humor, this book quickly became impossible to put down! Dialogue and scenery worked well together creating the books originality. Challenging my faith I found this book to be inspiring and would highly recommend this well written book to others! 5 Stars!!!
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Cleaning House: A Mom's Twelve Month Experiment to Rid Her Home of Youth Entitlement- Enjoyable!
The author realized how "easy" her children had it at home. Their sense of entitlement further prompted her to devise a 12 month system where she wasn't doing all of the work and they could contribute while gaining a sense of accomplishment and power within themselves. With the introduction to her 5 children ranging in age from 3-14 the conversation throughout the book was humorous, beneficial and recognizable within my own family when my children were younger. Filled with tips, what worked or didn't for her family, what was learned each month and the struggles and successes encountered.
Although these are the author's ideas and suggestions I feel they can easily be improvised to fit within the readers family and situations. The book applies humor mixed with common sense tactics and could be a helpful tool to others, especially those with young children who are looking for ways to promote self independence. Also would be helpful for working moms and dads or anyone else who need extra help with the never ending list of household and outdoor chores. I would recommend this book to others.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Unplanned by Abby Johnson- An Honest Account
Abby Johnson after 8 years of being an employee and spokesperson for Planned Parenthood in Bryan Texas, who worked on the front lines in the office, was called to assist a doctor in normal procedures at Planned Parenthood. She has always strived to help others and to show them that other choices are available to them and abortion isnt always the answer. But that day replayed in her mind constantly bringing about change in her life.
This book allows a rare glimpse inside the day to day operations of Planned Parenthood, their practices and policies from an honest account of a former employee. Although I have heard briefly about the organization, the rest I am now aware of. As a person who believes in the sanctity of human life, at times, I found the book hard to read from that standpoint. I do believe this book is necessary for this day and age however to open the eyes of readers. I would recommend this book to others.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
My Favorite Garden Tools!
I have tried alot of garden tools in my day but there are 2 that take the brunt of garden and yard work, are sturdy, and have not broken or dulled:
Fiskars Power Lever two hand held trimmer (easily cuts thick branches with ease) bought that at Lowes several years ago and
Yard Butler hand held cultivator/tiller. 2 different kinds are available. This nifty tool has a handle and a tool on each side mine has a digger and a cultivator excellent for easily removing crab/quack grass, dandelions etc. I got mine at Ace Hardware about the same time I bought the Fiskars.
Both should be available if not ask for them.
Fiskars Power Lever two hand held trimmer (easily cuts thick branches with ease) bought that at Lowes several years ago and
Yard Butler hand held cultivator/tiller. 2 different kinds are available. This nifty tool has a handle and a tool on each side mine has a digger and a cultivator excellent for easily removing crab/quack grass, dandelions etc. I got mine at Ace Hardware about the same time I bought the Fiskars.
Both should be available if not ask for them.
Waiting for Sunrise by Eva Marie Everson- 5 Stars!
Patsy Milstrap and her husband travel to tranquil Cedar Key Florida. Patsy's younger years reinvade and interrupt her thoughts when she recognizes a part of her past in Cedar Key, someone like she, who endured a violent and cruel life at the hands of evil. Her mother Bernice many years ago had made the ultimate and selfless sacrifice for her daughter to ensure of Patsy's well being. Through it all Patsy discovers what has been there waiting for her all along, but when the hurts are still raw after many years, is it possible to move toward forgiveness, or will the past hold her captive to a bitter heart?
This impossible to put down read will tear at your heart, cause you to rejoice and leave you yearning for more! This novel reads like a real life family drama with unforgettable well formed characters, captivating scenery and engaging dialogue. There are no dull parts in the story and the storyline held my attention from the beginning until the ending. I was highly entertained and enjoyed peering into the character's lives and enjoyed getting to know them on a personal level. Even though this book is the 2nd in the Cedar Key series it can easily work as a stand alone novel. I found the overall message to be inspiring and will definately recommend this book to others. Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Thank you to Revell Publishing for my complimentary copy to review for this blog tour.
Eva Marie Everson is a successful speaker and the award-winning author of Things Left Unspoken, This Fine Life, and Chasing Sunsets. She is coauthor of the Potluck Club books and the Potluck Catering Club series. She lives in Florida.
****I want to let you know that Eva Marie Everson is sponsoring a contest for a Kindle Fire in conjunction with her blog tour week for Waiting for Sunrise!****
Contest runs from June 10-16th
The details can be found here:
http://www.evamarieeversonauthor.com/#!kindle-contest
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Visions of the Coming Days by R. Loren Sandford
As in the days of old, revival is a necessary element for Christians. Creating the right environment for revival will require the dedication to unite believers to grow churches.
Some key points of the many discussed in length include (in my own words): How history will be reintroduced and play in a part in the days to come. How practices in the age of ancient cults are being implemented today. How the modern church abandons scripture. How does the book of Amos relate to our world today? A host of many other topics and prophecies are introduced and backed up with bible verses. Some exposure, with the authors prophecy, to the book of Revelations and what heaven is like.
This is an eyeopening, thought provoking, realistic and not to be overlooked read that is backed up with scriptural references. With vision, understanding and grace the author discusses historical facts coupling with what he knows of the coming future. The more I read the more I wanted to continue. About midway through the book it was impossible to put down. Answering some of the questions I have recently thought about ie: what is universalism and who goes to heaven, and also the mark of the beast. Reading this book challenged my faith and I became more aware of different signs to look for in the times to come. I would recommend this book to others. I received this book for free from Chosen Books for my review.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
My Hair and God's Mercies by Yvette Maher- Grace In The Darkness
Yvette has experienced God's loving grace
throughout her life. Kentucky farm girl born and raised, she endured a difficult
young family life which has projected itself into her adult life through
challenges and life lessons. Yet through it all God has been faithful. The
result of her experiences left her needing to know where she fit in the roadmap
of life. Her encouraging testimony speaks strength to her reading
audience.
I believe this book is written for women as there are situations experienced by the author that only a woman can relate to. Along with excellent recipes this well written autobiography will put you on the other side of the fence marveling at her transformation. I do love reading stories about the way others come to Christ's loving grace. I found the overall message of the book to be inspiring, and through her words, I found the book to be challenging to my faith. I will recommend this hard to put down book to others. Thanks to Tyndale House and Netgalley for the ARC for my review.
I believe this book is written for women as there are situations experienced by the author that only a woman can relate to. Along with excellent recipes this well written autobiography will put you on the other side of the fence marveling at her transformation. I do love reading stories about the way others come to Christ's loving grace. I found the overall message of the book to be inspiring, and through her words, I found the book to be challenging to my faith. I will recommend this hard to put down book to others. Thanks to Tyndale House and Netgalley for the ARC for my review.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Oh my.... Deer in the Garden!
Woods surround 3 corners of our property. So whenever I see deer (very plentiful this year for some reason) browsing my garden and eating my produce or munching on my daylilies or raspberry bushes I go in panic mode. I have tried unsuccessfully hair in the garden, shining lights and many of the other posted suggestions but have found success (so far) with a few of my own....I use the latex gloves I talked about in an earlier post after weeding etc take them off inside out and put them on sticks around what I want to save, also old tennis shoes on sticks. I had a neighbor ask me if I were growing shoes lol! Also shirts of my husband after cutting grass I hang those out too. I have heard of others who have success with flash tape. I may try that if I run out of clothes, shoes and gloves.
To Heaven and Back by Mary C Neal, MD - My review
The journey to Chile took Dr. Mary Neal, her husband Bill and others to the Fuy river, all experienced kayakers, all excited to accept the challenges that await them. Escallating over the waterfall Mary's boat became lodged with an abandoned boat and with the force of the raging waters she was taken and trapped under water. It was a miracle of sorts that the author, after the tramatic experience of being held under water in 1999 for so long of a time, was able to lead a fairly normal life despite the tragic happenings that continue to plague her family.
Books such as these seem to fuel the curiosity that others (myself included) have of the unknown and the desire to know how others experiences have led them to (or strengthened) their faiths.
I do think on a positive note that her overcoming the adversities in her life and getting her story out there could be a source of hope for others who are fighting with similar tragedies in theirs. Her strength is evident as a result of what she and her family has been through. This book is more an autobiography of her and her families life. The pictures in the book added a nice touch to their story.
I feel on a negative note that it did not challenge my faith as much as I had anticipated. Her near death experience covered only a very, very minute part of the whole book so I believe the title to be deceiving, makes the reader think that the book is more about her near death experience. I was skeptical about a few parts ie for example: what children remember before birth and how the world changes their thinking.
All in all I did enjoy getting to know about her family life as I am someone who does not read many autobiographies. Not sure I would recommend this book to others but maybe for ones looking for a good autobiography but not for ones looking for a near death experience. I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blog/2012/05/24/news-dr-mary-neal-on-fox-news-to-heaven-and-back/
http://www.drmaryneal.com/index.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dr-Mary-Neal/265291240169218
http://www.randomhouse.com/book/223400/to-heaven-and-back-by-mary-c-neal-md
Monday, June 4, 2012
Skip Rock Shallows by Jan Watson- Captured My Attention!
Within the deep recesses of the coal mine camp in Skip Rock, Ky, close the the
area of Troublesome Creek, Dr. Lilly Corbett faces the challenges that are
reserved for the previous camp doctor. The resident's backwoods and simple way
of life prove to be quite untrusting of a female physician. The mines remain in
unrest as the workers fight illnesses and injuries. The services of Dr Lilly as
needed more now than ever. When Lilly's fiance Paul arrives in Skip Rock it is
as if she had never left her hometown in Boston. While Paul has plans for he and
Lilly, her previous life keeps breaking into her thoughts as one who is
recognized from the past but not acknowledged in the present. Will she be able
to separate the two and make a wise decision?
This well written book hosts a cast of very likable and easy to get to know characters. Laugh aloud moments as well as tense ones coupled with romance keeps the story enjoyable. Dialogue, description and scenery work together well leaving no dull parts in the storyline. I found the overall message to be inspiring and I was challenged in my faith. I was entertained and will recommend this book to others.
This well written book hosts a cast of very likable and easy to get to know characters. Laugh aloud moments as well as tense ones coupled with romance keeps the story enjoyable. Dialogue, description and scenery work together well leaving no dull parts in the storyline. I found the overall message to be inspiring and I was challenged in my faith. I was entertained and will recommend this book to others.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Choose Joy by Kay Warren- Enjoyable and Helpful!
Joy is a choice and available to everyone.
The book is divided into four main parts with many subchapters. Within this volume are many points addressed and explained in a way that is down to earth without being intimidating. Topics addressed include getting to know Jesus on a more personal level, how to discover a new way of thinking, nurturing joy in others, strengths and weaknesses just to name a few. Chapters are enhanced with bible verses which adds depth to the points being addressed. After each chapter are prayers and thoughts for reflection. I found these to be great tools for praise and a way that enhances the chapters more fully. The target audience is women.
A truly meaningful and enjoyable read! The author, with compassion, addresses and shares understanding about issues and gives practical and heartfelt solutions while sharing life stories and always encorporating Jesus into the picture. I feel that every reader can benefit and take something from this book, recognize themselves within and be able to incorporate more joy into their lives. Quite the keeper book to reread again and especially for those times when life gets me down, and I need reinforcements to rekindle the joy that is lost. A well written inspiring read that has challenged my faith. I would highly recommend this book to others. I received a complimentary copy from Revell Publishing Blog Tour for this review. Available April 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Kay Warren Author, Speaker, Bible Teacher Kay Warren, cofounder of Saddleback Church with her husband, Rick, is an international speaker, best-selling author and Bible teacher who has a passion for inspiring and motivating others to make a difference with their lives. She is best known for her 10 years as a tireless advocate for those living with HIV and AIDS, and the orphaned and vulnerable children left behind. As an advocate, she has traveled to 19 countries, calling the faith community as well as the public and private sectors to respond with prevention, care, treatment and support of people living with the virus. Kay is author of several books including her newest “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough” (Revell, April 2012), which was adapted from a Bible study she first taught at Saddleback Church in July 2011, drawing more than 5,000 women for the four-week sessions. In the book, Kay describes how painful experiences – two bouts of cancer, watching as life-threatening illnesses attacked her children and grandchildren and living with mild depression most of her life – have shaped her conviction that joy is a choice and within the reach of every person, no matter how desperate or dark circumstances may be. She is also author of “Dangerous Surrender,” which was originally released in 2007 and revised, expanded and published as “Say Yes to God” (Zondervan) in 2010, and coauthor of “Foundations: 11 Core Truths to Build Your Life On” with Pastor Tom Holladay (Zondervan) in 2004. Additionally, Kay has also written for Christianity Today, Purpose Driven Life, CNN.com and The Washington Post, and has been featured in Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Guideposts, Sojourners, POZ and Today’s Christian Woman magazines, among others. Kay attended California Baptist College and earned her B.A. from California State University, Los Angeles. She is mother to Amy, Joshua and Matthew, and grandmother to Kaylie, Cassidy, Caleb, Cole and Claire.
Title: “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough” Synopsis: Between tough economic times and everyday “life” struggles sometimes it may feel as if things are hopeless. Happiness doesn’t just seem fleeting, it often seems unattainable. Kay Warren is no stranger to sorrow and difficulties. Though she lives in the public life as the co-founder of Saddleback Church – one of the nation’s largest and most influential churches in America – with her husband Rick, the circumstances in Kay’s life have not always been perfect. She has personally experienced emotional and physical abuse, two bouts with cancer and various other hardships along with witnessing women and children worldwide who are hurting from HIV/AIDS, hunger and poverty. While very difficult, these circumstances have taught Kay valuable lessons about the true meaning of joy. Realizing that many other women struggle with living in joy – if they even know what it is – Kay decided the lessons she has learned needed to be shared. In “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough,” Kay draws from biblical principles and her own life experience to illustrate what joy really is, where to find it, and how to choose it in the good times and the bad. Author: Kay Warren, author, speaker and international HIV/AIDS advocate. Kay and her husband, Rick, began Saddleback Church, now one of the largest churches in America, in the living room of their condominium in 1980. Since then, she has founded the HIV/AIDS Initiative at Saddleback Church in 2004 and spoken around the world as an advocate for the weak and vulnerable. She chronicles this in her first book “Dangerous Surrender,” originally released in 2007 and revised, expanded and published as “Say Yes to God” in 2010. A two-time cancer survivor, Kay knows firsthand how a life-threatening diagnosis alters one’s daily life. Her own bouts with suffering have motivated her to serve those who are sick. She is passionate about using her personal experiences to encourage others, which is why she wrote “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough,” which releases in April 2012. Publisher: Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group Release Date: April 12, 2012 ISBN: 978-0-8007-2172-5 MSRP: $21.99 U.S. Pages: 272 Size: 6” X 9” Website: http://www.KayWarren.com or http://bit.ly/yj3waz Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/KayWarren Twitter: @KayWarren1
Kay Warren Author, Speaker, Bible Teacher Kay Warren, cofounder of Saddleback Church with her husband, Rick, is an international speaker, best-selling author and Bible teacher who has a passion for inspiring and motivating others to make a difference with their lives. She is best known for her 10 years as a tireless advocate for those living with HIV and AIDS, and the orphaned and vulnerable children left behind. As an advocate, she has traveled to 19 countries, calling the faith community as well as the public and private sectors to respond with prevention, care, treatment and support of people living with the virus. Kay is author of several books including her newest “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough” (Revell, April 2012), which was adapted from a Bible study she first taught at Saddleback Church in July 2011, drawing more than 5,000 women for the four-week sessions. In the book, Kay describes how painful experiences – two bouts of cancer, watching as life-threatening illnesses attacked her children and grandchildren and living with mild depression most of her life – have shaped her conviction that joy is a choice and within the reach of every person, no matter how desperate or dark circumstances may be. She is also author of “Dangerous Surrender,” which was originally released in 2007 and revised, expanded and published as “Say Yes to God” (Zondervan) in 2010, and coauthor of “Foundations: 11 Core Truths to Build Your Life On” with Pastor Tom Holladay (Zondervan) in 2004. Additionally, Kay has also written for Christianity Today, Purpose Driven Life, CNN.com and The Washington Post, and has been featured in Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Guideposts, Sojourners, POZ and Today’s Christian Woman magazines, among others. Kay attended California Baptist College and earned her B.A. from California State University, Los Angeles. She is mother to Amy, Joshua and Matthew, and grandmother to Kaylie, Cassidy, Caleb, Cole and Claire.
Title: “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough” Synopsis: Between tough economic times and everyday “life” struggles sometimes it may feel as if things are hopeless. Happiness doesn’t just seem fleeting, it often seems unattainable. Kay Warren is no stranger to sorrow and difficulties. Though she lives in the public life as the co-founder of Saddleback Church – one of the nation’s largest and most influential churches in America – with her husband Rick, the circumstances in Kay’s life have not always been perfect. She has personally experienced emotional and physical abuse, two bouts with cancer and various other hardships along with witnessing women and children worldwide who are hurting from HIV/AIDS, hunger and poverty. While very difficult, these circumstances have taught Kay valuable lessons about the true meaning of joy. Realizing that many other women struggle with living in joy – if they even know what it is – Kay decided the lessons she has learned needed to be shared. In “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough,” Kay draws from biblical principles and her own life experience to illustrate what joy really is, where to find it, and how to choose it in the good times and the bad. Author: Kay Warren, author, speaker and international HIV/AIDS advocate. Kay and her husband, Rick, began Saddleback Church, now one of the largest churches in America, in the living room of their condominium in 1980. Since then, she has founded the HIV/AIDS Initiative at Saddleback Church in 2004 and spoken around the world as an advocate for the weak and vulnerable. She chronicles this in her first book “Dangerous Surrender,” originally released in 2007 and revised, expanded and published as “Say Yes to God” in 2010. A two-time cancer survivor, Kay knows firsthand how a life-threatening diagnosis alters one’s daily life. Her own bouts with suffering have motivated her to serve those who are sick. She is passionate about using her personal experiences to encourage others, which is why she wrote “Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough,” which releases in April 2012. Publisher: Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group Release Date: April 12, 2012 ISBN: 978-0-8007-2172-5 MSRP: $21.99 U.S. Pages: 272 Size: 6” X 9” Website: http://www.KayWarren.com or http://bit.ly/yj3waz Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/KayWarren Twitter: @KayWarren1
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Flame of Resistance by Tracy Groot- Fast Paced!
During a time of challenges, a time of German invasion, and at a time of great want can the efforts of a few change the lives of many?
Tom, a skilled American pilot for the Army Air Forces, is shot down in midair and picked up by the French. He is found to be of useful fascination because of how he presents himself, the cause of which others fight for capivates him.
Brigette lives a questionable life in servitude for the needs of the Germans endures being the object of others disgust and prejudice, she carries bitterness which in turn feeds her purpose.
A group who makes up The Resistance employ bold, daring and extreme courage while encorporating the decision to fight for that which is just and fair. But time grows short for the group, plans must be precise, but can all be gained without the harsh suffering of any loses?
High action and drama encompass this fast paced novel. Scenery and description mesh well creating a believable dialogue and plot. Although I was able to know the main and established characters in depth, it seemed that at times the story was difficult to keep up with, with the constant introduction of new characters who are just introduced once. With that said I did enjoy reading this novel and would recommend it to others. I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale House Publishers for my review.
Friday, June 1, 2012
The Bride Wore Blue by Mona Hodgson- Entertaining!
Grace is sometimes found in the most unlikeliest of hearts.
Vivian Sinclair, talented seamstress and artist, relocated to Cripple Creek, Colorado at the request of her sisters. At her arrival the reunion holds promises and surprises. The town seemed hospitable enough to Vivian but she is in desperate need of work. A majority of her prospects for a source of income seemed invaluable, but when an opportunity presents itself to her in an area of questionable location she keeps this new venture from her sisters which does prove to be quite difficult indeed.
Carter Alwyn, Sheriff Deputy, is doing his part to keep his town safe but even the best of intentions has its challenges. In his search for an outlaw Carter discovers something truly more valuable, but could he lose more than his badge in the process?
A steadily, well flowing novel that proved to be quite entertaining! A stand alone novel,and although this is the third book in the series, of which I have not read the ones prior, I was able to start fresh not knowing the history previously. Promising drama, romance and justice this book will capture the reader's attention. Scenery and dialogue worked well and the down to earth characters were well developed. I found the overall message inspiring and would recommend this book to others.
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