My Scrappy Life

OLW: Rest: Sunday Sabbath Wisdom

2012-01-29T22:48:00.001-06:00

Words of wisdom from one of my favorite writers - I really need to dig out some of my Merton books and become reacquainted with him. Maybe this will be a good way to rest on a day off.... Merton and Starbucks....hum....maybe a plan for next Friday.

A Prayer for the Simplicity of Life and Love
By Thomas Merton

Justify my soul, O God, but also from Your fountains fill my will with your fire. Shrine in my mind, although perhaps this means “be darkness to my experience,” but occupy my heart with Your tremendous Life. Let my eyes see nothing in the world but Your glory, and let my hands touch nothing that is not for Your service.

Let my tongue taste no bread that does not strengthen me to praise Your great mercy. I will hear Your voice and I will hear all harmonies You have created, singing Your hymns. Sheep’s wool and cotton from the field shall warm me enough that I may live in Your service; I will give the rest to Your poor. Let me use all things for one sole reason: to find my joy in giving You glory.

Therefore keep me, above all things, from sin. Keep me from the death of deadly sin which puts hell in my soul. Keep me from the murder of lust that blinds and poisons my heart. Keep me from the sins that eat a man’s flesh with irresistible fire until he is devoured. Keep me from loving money in which is hatred, from avarice and ambition that suffocate my life.

Keep me from the dead works of vanity and the thankless labor in which artists destroy themselves for pride and money and reputation, and saints are smothered under the avalanche of their own importunate zeal. Stanch in me the rank wound of covetousness and the hungers that exhaust my nature with their bleeding. Stamp out the serpent envy that stings love with poison and kills all joy.

Untie my hands and deliver my heart from sloth. Set me free from the laziness that goes about disguised as activity when activity is not required of me, and from the cowardice that does what is not demanded, in order to escape sacrifice.

But give me the strength that waits upon You in silence and peace. Give me humility in which alone is rest, and deliver me from pride which is the heaviest of burdens. And possess my whole heart and soul with the simplicity of love.

Occupy my whole life with the one thought and the one desire of love, that I may love not for the sake of merit, not for the sake of perfection, not for the sake of virtue, not for the sake of sanctity, but for you alone.

For there is only one thing that can satisfy love and reward it, and that is You alone.

OLW: Rest Reminder

2012-01-28T22:34:00.000-06:00

A few reminders I've found on Pinterest in the last month, to help me remember my word for 2012 - Rest.

I'm still working on being better at resting....

How do you rest?

http://pinterest.com/pin/123426846007334340/

http://pinterest.com/pin/123426846007322560/

http://pinterest.com/pin/123426846007409435/

The quest for 50 states

2012-01-27T20:45:00.000-06:00

My friend Stacey's daughter "M" is collecting postcards from all 50 states for a class project. This afternoon, I (along with a friend) went on a quest - thanks to her Garmin - to find the perfect Arkansas postcard for her. (We found two...because we couldn't decide which one was best!)

It's been fun to talk to friends - via email and Facebook - all over the country, asking them to pitch in to help M "rock" her assignment. So far if they all come in, we have at least 75 percent of the states represented - hopefully even Alaska and Hawaii.

It was fun and random to help M with this project. Sometimes living so far away from friends, I can't be part of their everyday life. This was one chance to do something - despite the miles that separate us.

Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things.
~Author Unknown

What little things have you done for a friend this week? How has it made a difference in your friendship?

Blog Tour: Alienation (Review)

2012-01-26T23:33:00.000-06:00

For Colt McAlister, life changed dramatically when his parents were killed in a car accident - which wasn't quite the accident people initially thought.

Through a series of events, Colt learns of a world that he never imagined - filled with jet packs, flying motorcycles and a grandfather who was the "Flying Phantom" during World War II.

Colt wants to be normal, but normal is no longer an option.

Instead he finds himself in the midst of a epic battle to save his life - and attend school at a top secret training center for C.H.A.O.S. - the Central Headquarters Against the Occult and Supernatural.

Ultimately, Colt has to decide who he can trust - and what friendship truly means.

What I Thought
I thought this book was well written and filled with intrigue and suspense. You can tell how writing for D.C. Comics has played a role in the development of Jon Lewis' writing style, because his words seem to come alive due to his vivid descriptions and wording.

This novel - and ultimately the series - plays on Lewis' writing strengths as he creates an alternative universe, where aliens and humans can come into contact, and people can ride around on flying motorcycles and use jet packs to fly.

It was interesting and fun to watch Lewis unfold Colt's character, as he not only learns to be with- and understand - his grandfather. He is also left maintaining his new and sometimes fledgling friendship with Oz and Danielle.

Because it's the second book in the series, readers may find it easier to "track" what is happening if they read the first book - Invasion. I know I found myself understanding Alienation more, once I went back and explored the first novel.

In Alienation, Lewis uses an allegory to structure his manuscript - drawing inspiration from the story of David, Jonathan and Saul. The parallels between Jonathan and David, and Oz and Colt are striking. This allegory added an interesting rhythm and strength to the story line - and truly served as the backbone of the novel.

Ultimately, this novel is written for young readers - but like most well written young adult fiction, this novel (and series) will appeal to readers of all ages.

However, unlike many young adult novels in today's marketplace, this book (and series) is not dark and depressing. It does deal with some strong themes, but somehow Lewis keeps it from being too harsh.

On the scale of one to five, with five being the highest, I give it a four. From reading the ending, I'm guessing there's at least one more book - because Lewis closed with a cliffhanger. I'm really hoping my 11-year-old nephew will dig into this series - so I have an excuse to check out the next book in the series.

About The Book:
From The Publisher
After his parents were killed in a car accident, Colt McAlister was drawn into a world he thought only existed in comic books-one where mind control, jet packs, and flying motorcycles don't even scratch the surface.

Along with his best friends Oz and Danielle, Colt is now training at the secret Central Headquarters Against the Occult and Supernatural academy. But strange accidents seem to follow him. . . even with the security of the school grounds. What first seems random soon turns deadly. But who is targeting Colt?

As the alien invasions increase in frequency and force, C.H.A.O.S resources are taxed to the limit and they're forced to utilize the new recruits. In the midst of battle, Colt will discover some startling revelations . . . about himself, his friendship with Oz, and why he has been chosen to defeat this alien attack against earth.

About The Author
Jon S. Lewis is the coauthor of the Grey Griffins trilogy (over 500,000 books in print) and the upcoming Grey Griffins Clockwork Chronicles. He also writes for the DC COMICS family of publishers. He resides with his family in Arizona.

For more about Jon and the series, visit www.chaosnovels.com.

Read my review of book one: Invasion here.

Online Resources

Link to buy the book & see an excerpt online: http://ow.ly/8wW4O
Buy it at Amazon: here.

It's A Contest
Win an iPad from @JonSLewis and @NelsonFiction in the Alienation iPad2 Giveaway!

The invasion was only the beginning! Jon Lewis is celebrating the next adventure in his fast-paced C.H.A.O.S. series with an explosive giveaway!

One thrill-seeker will receive:

iPad2 with Wi-Fi
Copies of the C.H.A.O.S. novels, Invasion and Alienation

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on February 7th. Winner will be announced at the Alienation Facebook Party on 2/7. Jon will be hosting an Author Chat, giving away copies of the books and gift certificates to iTunes and Amazon.com! Don't miss a second of the intrigue!

Grab your copy of Alienation and join Jon on the evening of February 7th for an author chat, spy training (How much do you know about alien invaders?) and lots of giveaways.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 31st!

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group.. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Quote of the Day: Life is...

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Something to think about.....

Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.

Life is beauty, admire it.

Life is bliss, taste it.

Life is a dream, realize it.

Life is a challenge, meet it.

Life is a duty, complete it.

Life is a game, play it.

Life is a promise, fulfill it.

Life is sorrow, overcome it.

Life is a song, sing it.

Life is a struggle, accept it.

Life is a tragedy, confront it.

Life is an adventure, dare it.

Life is luck, make it.

Life is too precious, do not destroy it.

Life is life, fight for it.

~ Mother Teresa

A Family Moment

2012-01-24T13:31:00.000-06:00

A few days ago, I ordered this picture. It's one of my favorite pictures of Collin - literally spraying me with silly string - with the present I had just given him.

It's also one of my favorites, because of the pure joy on his face and on my dad's face (left corner). I just happened to snap it - I think I was walking away and Collin yelled for me to turn around - and zap, he got me! (Teach me to buy a messy present.)

It has new meaning this week, because it also contains my "Uncle" Steve - (really my dad's cousin if someone can explain family tree stuff, but I grew up calling him Uncle Steve) - top right corner, with the puppy.

Steve was killed over the weekend in a farming accident. The funeral is tomorrow in Western Kansas.

The package from Shutterfly was a bit bittersweet, because when I opened it today, this was the first picture to great me in the package.

I love this picture, and I love the memories surrounding it. I remember how much fun we had at Aunt Pauline's farm (Steve's mom) and everything we did that visit. It's still one of my favorite pictures, but now it has new significance.

I thought I'd share this today, because it reminds me that regardless of "label," family plays an important and vital part of our lives.

Maybe today, you should hug someone in your family (either by blood or by choice) and tell them how important they are to you.

Because, as we learned this weekend, things can change in an instant.

Blog Tour: Invasion (Review)

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

Life seems pretty normal for Colt McAlister, until that faithful day when his parents are killed in a freak car accident.

Everything changes when he moves to Arizona to live with his grandfather and starts attending classes at a new school.

Suddenly, he finds out his grandfather and his family has connections to a secret organization - and his mother's investigative journalism piece on one of the nation's largest companies is probably why she - and his father - were killed.

Life as a 16-year-old isn't so simple after all.

I picked up Invasion to read after I was given the second book in this series, Alienation. I found as I started reading the second book, I really wanted to know what happened in the first.

I was not disappointed. Invasion is an interesting book. Three friends work together to solve several mysteries - and along the way discover some sinister plots to end the world as we know it.

I wanted to find out more about this series, because I have an 11 year-old nephew, who is reading books like this with a voracious appetite. I thought this book would interest him for several reasons: the main character is a boy (that has become a new request), the main character is a "surfer/skater" dude; and it does involve a multi-dimensional world. (To say more might spoil the book.)

This book (and series) showcases Jon S. Lewis' experience of writing for DC Comics. I think the plot lines and the writing style will attract young readers - like my nephew.

Written for a Christian publisher, Invasion is not "heavy" on preaching, but rather showcases a "real-life" faith. The first book sets up a Biblical allegory that structures much of book two.

While I'm not the target market for this novel (the target, I suspect is my nephew), I found this book to be an intriguing, suspense-filled and well, simply a great read.

In all, on a scale of one to five, with five as the highest, I give this book a solid four. Reading book one left me wanting to know more (and I'll be honest, I finished book two over the weekend and I really don't want to wait a year for the third installment!)

More About The Book
(From The Publisher)
He didn't ask to be a hero, but now all that stands between us and chaos . . . is Colt.

Colt McAlister was having the summer of his life. He spent his days surfing and his nights playing guitar on the beach with friends. He even met a girl and got his first car. But everything changes when his parents are killed in a freak accident.

He's forced to leave his old life behind and move to Arizona with his grandfather. The only person he knows at the new high school is a childhood friend named Dani. And Oz, a guy he's sure he's never met but who is strangely familiar.

But what if his parents' death wasn't an accident? His mother, an investigative reporter, was going to expose a secret mind-control program run by one of the world's largest companies. Before she could release the story, what if agents from Trident Biotech made sure she couldn't go public?

Vowing to uncover truth, Colt is drawn into a secret world of aliens, shapeshifters, flying motorcycles, and invisible getaways.

The invasion has begun.

About The Author

Jon S. Lewis is the coauthor of the Grey Griffins trilogy and the Grey Griffins Clockwork Chronicles. He also writes for the DC COMICS family of publishers. He resides with his family in Arizona.

Online Resources
Read more about Invasion here.
Buy it at Amazon
Buy it at Barnes & Noble

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Net Galley's blogger program. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Stay tuned for the review of book two, coming later this week!

Blog Tour: Chasing Mona Lisa (Review & Interview)

2012-01-22T20:21:00.000-06:00

A hidden masterpiece. Protected during the war, becomes the target of a massive chase through Europe.
Who will win? The good guys - spies for the OSS or the Nazis'.

In their second book - Chasing Mona Lisa - Mike Yorkey and Tricia Goyer dive back into the political intrigue surrounding OSS spies at the end of World War II, as they show how Gabi and Eric (who appeared in their first book - The Swiss Courier) take part in their mission to protect the Mona Lisa - the French prized jewel - from German thieves.

"It [Chasing Mona Lisa], is history rich and full of plot twists," explained Goyer. "For me, I was most interested in the stolen art. I read a book Rescuing Da Vinci that fascinated me. And the spy part is just plain fun.

"One of my all time favorite books is The Spy Wore Red. I also wrote about spies in my Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War Series. (A Valley of Betrayal, A Shadow of Treason, A Whisper of Freedom.) It's the cleverness of spies that I like best I suppose."

Goyer said she became acquainted with the stories surrounding stolen art when she was in Europe, after touring salt mines iin Austria which were used by the Germans to hide art during the war.

"I was fascinated by those who did what they could to protect art, hiding it away in unexpected places. The Mona Lisa hung in a young girl's bedroom for part of the war--that amazes me," Goyer continued.

While the story surrounding Chasing Mona Lisa is fiction, the novel is inspired by true events.

"The Germans did load up trains filled with art at the end of the war," Goyer said, "and many of the events that happen in the book, like the parade down the Champs-Elysees after "liberation" was true. The attempted theft of the Mona Lisa is fiction...as far as we know!"

Throughout the book, Goyer and Yorkey provide some twists and turns that often have "good guys" who turn out to be "bad" in the end, as well as some characters who seem compromised by life choices, who turn out to be "good."

"What we tried to portray is that everyone has their own motivations and goals and the truth always will come out," she said. "We tried to make the characters true-to-life and live with the desires and motivations of real people during that time. It's amazing what someone will do for a cause they believe in."

Goyer said the book was fun to write, because it incorporated characters from her previous work.

"Gabi and Eric were too good of people just to forget," Goyer said. "I was thankful to be able to spend more time with them! And in this novel I really love Colette. It was great to be able to step into the shoes of a curator for the Louvre. The mix of protector and servant was the essence of who Colette is."

Goyer said she hopes readers will walk away from this novel asking themselves several questions.

"I hope readers (examine) their own hearts and ask, 'What am I willing to fight for? Sacrifice for?' It's easy to live our lives without fighting for something we believe in," she said. "But maybe walking through this "fight" with the characters will make readers consider their own path and call."

Through writing this book, Goyer said God has taught her several lessons on trust.

"I needed to trust my co-writer. I needed to trust the process. And I learned trust through the character's lives," she said. "Do we trust we can make a difference? Do we trust God has a plan for individual lives in the midst of a big world? ... Yes."

What I Thought
Chasing Mona Lisa is a suspense-filled novel with a romantic twist. I enjoyed reading it. While it's a "second book," for the most part, you can pick up this book and read it as a "stand alone" work.

The plot, crafted around a Resistance fighter and a curator at the Louvre, truly has a lot of twists and turns. Good guys turn out to be not so good, while others pegged as "bad" turn out to be ok in the end.

The novel's descriptions let you feel like you are driving all over France and Austria trying to save the Mona Lisa along with Gabi and Eric. An unexpected kidnapping - and subsequent chase - provided an unexpected turn in the novel.

Overall, this novel is intense - but not terrifying. It's a great read that will keep you guessing what happens. It's would truly make a great movie because of the intrigue and suspense.

On the scale of one to five, with five being the highest, this book is a solid four. Once again Yorkey and Goyer have created a great novel steeped in history and intrigue. While they are not planning a third novel at this time, I would definitely be ready to read another book by this pair.

More About The Book
It is August 1944 and Paris is on the cusp of liberation. As the soldiers of the Third Reich flee the Allied advance, they ravage the country, stealing countless pieces of art. Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring will stop at nothing to claim the most valuable one of all, the Mona Lisa, as a post-war bargaining chip to get him to South America. Can Swiss OSS agents Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler rescue DaVinci's masterpiece before it falls into German hands?

With nonstop action, Chasing Mona Lisa is sure to get readers' adrenaline pumping as they join the chase to save the most famous painting in the world. From war-ravaged Paris to a posh country chateau, the race is on--and the runners are playing for keeps.

About the authors:

Tricia Goyer is the coauthor of The Swiss Courier as well as the author of many other books, including Night Song and Dawn of a Thousand Nights, both past winners of the ACFW's Book of the Year Award for Long Historical Romance. Goyer lives with her family in Arkansas. For more about Tricia and her other books visit www.triciagoyer.com

Mike Yorkey is the author or coauthor of dozens of books, including The Swiss Courier and the bestselling Every Man's Battle series. Married to a Swiss native, Yorkey lived in Switzerland for 18 months. He and his family currently reside in California. For more about Mike and his other books visit www.mikeyorkey.com

Online Resources
Link to buy the book: ow.ly/8sRzd

Read an excerpt, watch a video and find out more here. http://www.triciagoyer.com/historicalfiction.html#ChasingMonaLisa

Follow the blog tour here: http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13449999

It's A Contest!
Chasing Mona Lisa is the continuing tale of Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler (first introduced in The
Swiss Courier). This time the due are on a relentless quest to save the most famous painting in the world - the Mona Lisa. You can help Gabi and Eric with your very own spy pack when you enter The Chasing Mona Lisa Giveaway!

One passionate protector will receive:

iTouch (The must-have device for any spy. Camera, Maps & Music.)
Starbucks Gift Card (For all those late nights.)
Moleskin Notebook (For those important notes.)
Invisible Ink Pen (Don’t want anyone reading those important notes.)
Chasing Mona Lisa by Tricia Goyer & Mike Yorkey (Great
handbook and intriguing tale for any spy-in-training!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on January 31st. The winner will be announced at the Chasing Mona Lisa Facebook Party on 1/31. Tricia and Mike will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from Tricia's website) and giving away their books and a Book Club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club AND a LIVE Author Chat for your group with Tricia and Mike.)

So grab your copy of Chasing Mona Lisa and join Tricia and Mike on the evening of the 31st for an author chat, spy training (do you know how to pick a lock? ) and lots of giveaways.

Quote of the Day: Eleanor Roosevelt

2012-01-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

I gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which I must stop and look fear in the face. I say to myself, I've lived through this and can take the next thing that comes along. We must do the things we think we cannot do.
-- Eleanor Roosevelt

An Attitude of Gratitude

2012-01-20T22:42:00.000-06:00

In the last week, I've started keeping a gratitude journal.

The idea came from Ali Edward's 52 Creative Prompts newsletter. In the first issue she wrote: Write a personal daily gratitude. I've started doing this using a great little One Line A Day 5-year Memory Book. Before I go to sleep I'm thinking back on the day and documenting one gratitude with just a couple lines of text. This is a practice I've thought about doing for years and I'm finally taking action on it. You can read more about it Ali's creative prompts here: http://eepurl.com/igdoU

I decided to make this a goal for 2012 - to write a line or two of gratitude as a way to document a thought or an idea from each day. (The fact that I had a blank journal lying around was an added bonus!)

I guess this is my attempt to live life "half full." I end each day writing in the journal. If I miss a day or two, it's OK - but I'm going to strive to make this a daily discipline.

Yes, I've only done it for a week - but I can already tell it's helping me "focus" on the positive aspects of each day.

Tonight, I'm grateful for the giggles of little kids who attended the family movie night at church. A couple decided the "game" of the night involved sneaking up on me while I watched the movie. The way they enjoy life is awesome.

So what are you grateful for?

Where Do You See God?

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1372168

Where do you see God?

That's the question posed by a friend, who is collecting answers for a project (and potentially a future book).

Do you see God in nature? In your family? In a sacred practice of faith?

The answers are endless.

So where do you see God?

More info, from my friend: I'm working on finding as many answers/responses to the question: Where Do You See God? Will you help me by responding to the question at this very simple website I've set up.....

www.wheredoyouseegod.com

Ideally, I'd love for you to then share it with folks you know. I literally need hundreds of answers, and all are welcome, especially from other parts of the world.

Blog Tour: The Sacred Meal (Review)

2012-01-18T22:13:00.002-06:00

Making The Ordinary Holy
http://instagr.am/p/iMri5/

What is communion? Why is it important, let alone sacred?

Those are just two of the questions examined in Nora Gallagher's contribution to the Ancient Practice Series - The Sacred Meal.

Mixing memoir and prose, Gallagher examines the practice of communion and how it relates to the Christian faith.

I found Gallagher's writing to be authentic, warm and engaging. Her writing style pulled me into the book, while her stories helped me look at communion in a new way.

"The sacred meal that is part of our faith does more than connect us to the holy. It connects us to each other."

I think what I enjoyed most about this book is that Gallagher really dives into why communion is truly an invitation to a deeper relationship with God.

Reading this piece of the Ancient Practice series has made me want to explore further titles - if they are all as inviting as this offering, it is a series that breathes new life into " old" practices of faith - thus truly making them new again.

An additional bonus: The study guide at the back of the book, would allow a small group to use this book to dive into the "holy mystery" known as communion.

More About The Book
(From The Publisher)
Unlike every other Christian practice, communion is meant to be done together—as the Gospel of Matthew tells us, where two or three “gathered in my name.” You simply can’t do it by yourself. You can pray alone and fast alone. You can even go on pilgrimage alone. Communion, on the other hand, forces us to be with others.

But like these other practices, communion has the same intention: to gradually move us out of one place and into another. Author Nora Gallagher says it’s like taking a journey to a foreign land, and she divides the trip into three parts: waiting, receiving, and afterward. While we wait, we sort through our baggage, filled with worry, guilt, anxiety, and pain. Communion teaches us how to receive—that God’s gift of grace comes to us by doing nothing. Finally, we surrender our invisible baggage and, now lightened, are free to reflect upon and understand the journey we have shared.

Gallagher writes,“Every time it is the same, and every time it is different.” This is your family, your table, and act of community—the gathering of the body of Christ.

About The Series
The Ancient Practices
There is a hunger in every human heart for connection, primitive and raw, to God. To satisfy it, many are beginning to explore traditional spiritual disciplines used for centuries . . . everything from fixed-hour prayer to fasting to sincere observance of the Sabbath. Compelling and readable, the Ancient Practices series is for every spiritual sojourner, for every Christian seeker who wants more.

More About The Author

Nora Gallagher was born in New Mexico, the daughter of Julie Walcott Gallagher, who taught herself architecture, and David Gallagher, who learned the law at Yale Law School and in practice. (He favored bow ties.) She grew up catching crawfish on the irrigation ditch that ran past her house, riding horseback in the desert, and smoking illegal substances in high school which she subsequently quit to attend St. John’s College, a place one studied the Great Books of the Western World. At St. John’s, she read the Iliad in Greek, Plato in English and made lifelong friends.

She learned writing on the ground, first in San Francisco, where she was hired as a stringer for TIME Magazine. (Later, she asked her boss at the time why he allowed her in the door and he replied, “You were a good writer. I figured I could teach you reporting.”) Later, she free-lanced with the idea of travel: she went anywhere on someone’s dime. Prague, Nicaragua, Texas. Her essays, book reviews and journalism have appeared in many publications including The New York Times Magazine, DoubleTake, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times Magazine, Utne Reader, The Village Voice, Mother Jones, and The Los Angeles Times.

Recently, Phyllis Tickle, founding editor of the religion department at Publisher’s Weekly, asked Gallagher to write a book about communion for a series on Christian practices. Not knowing that taking communion was a practice, and not having been successful at any other religious practice, the idea intrigued her. The result is a book rather like a memoir about taking communion: The Sacred Meal, 2009.

A few more items: She is the editor of the award-winning Notes from the Field, published by Chronicle Books, 1999. A sermon is collected in Sermons that Work and a poem in the anthology, September 11, 2001: American Writers Respond. She was lucky enough to be a fellow at both the MacDowell Colony and Blue Mountain Center.

She is preacher-in-residence at Trinity Episcopal Church, Santa Barbara, and sits on the advisory board of the Yale Divinity School. She is represented by Philippa Brophy, president of Sterling Lord Literistic, New York.

She lives with her husband, novelist and poet Vincent Stanley, in Santa Barbara and New York.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon


Buy		Read

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by BookSneeze's blogger program. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: Decision Points (Review)

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-06:00

Working as a journalist in southwest Missouri in the early 2000's, I had the opportunity to cover President George W. Bush, as he traveled to the area for a variety of reasons.

It was interesting to watch him interact with the crowds on the ag tour, and to see how he responded to survivors after a tornado swept Pierce City, Mo.

So when I had the chance to read his memoir, I agreed. It might surprise people who know me, but I wanted to see what he said - and see his take on history.

I found a memoir that was both surprising and interesting. I thought his approach and writing style was intriguing. I'll admit, it's a bit unusual - since it's not chronological, but I enjoyed reading about a certain issue or decision from start to finish.

This was especially true regarding the section which focuses on the decisions made surrounding Sept. 11. President Bush's recollection seems authentic and real.

Will this book make me change my political beliefs one way or another? Probably not. Has it given me a new perspective on President Bush? Yes. Am I glad I read it? Yes.

Time is the true test of a President and a memoir. I think that's true both for President Bush's tenure in office and for what he has written.

However, I think this book will definitely give you something to think about - and isn't that what a good memoir is meant to do?

More About This Book
(From The Publisher)
Decision Points is the extraordinary account of America's 43rd president. Shattering the conventions of political autobiography, George W. Bush offers a strikingly candid journey through the defining decisions of his life.

In gripping, never-before-heard detail, President Bush brings readers inside the Texas Governor's Mansion on the night of the hotly contested 2000 election; aboard Air Force One on 9/11, in the hours after America's most devastating attack since Pearl Harbor; at the head of the table in the Situation Room in the moments before launching the war in Iraq; and behind the Oval Office desk for his historic and controversial decisions on the financial crisis, Hurricane Katrina, Afghanistan, Iran, and other issues that have shaped the first decade of the twenty-first century.

President Bush writes honestly and directly about his flaws and mistakes, as well as his accomplishments reforming education, treating HIV/AIDS in Africa, and safeguarding the country amid chilling warnings of additional terrorist attacks. He also offers intimate new details on his decision to quit drinking, discovery of
faith, and relationship with his family.

Decision Points will captivate supporters, surprise critics, and change perspectives on one of the most consequential eras in American history—and the man at the center of events.

Online Resources

Buy it at Amazon
Pick it up at Barnes & Noble
Read and excerpt online
Read more about the book here

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Deep Thought: Genius

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

Found on Pinterest - a place I find myself when I need a dose of creativity. I love this sign because it's a message I need to hear - and I want the kids I work with to hear LOUD and CLEAR.

Isn't it true, we judge ourselves not by our own abilities, but by what the world convinces us is right.

I need to remember that just because I'm not living up to the world's standards OR even the "little voice" in my head, doesn't make me stupid.

In fact, I only need to live up to God's plan for my life. Period. That's much better than living life like a fish who wants to climb a tree.

So here's to living life like a goldfish.

You can find the original source of this picture here!

Blog Tour: The Keeper (Review & Interview)

2012-01-16T08:30:00.000-06:00

With the release of her new series, Susanne Woods Fisher dives back into the Amish faith community, examining the lives of three sisters, Julia, Sadie and M.K., and how they interact in Stoney Ridge.

The drama deepens as Julia's plans for her life go haywire, when her plans for marriage dissolve and her father's health drastically deteriorates.

In all, Julia has to learn how to rely, not on her own plans, but instead on what God has in store for her life.

Once again, Suzanne has created a story that is warm, inviting and fun to read. While the book is set in am Amish community, it doesn't focus on "buggies, bonnets and beards" (as she puts it), but rather focuses on a family, living in a faith community.

On a scale of one to five, with five being the highest, I give this s solid four. I'm looking forward to where this series goes - Sadie's and M.K.'s stories are future releases. If book one is any indication, this series is off to a great start!

A Q&A With Suzanne!
“The Keeper” is part of a new series, how do you describe this series? What made you delve into a new community of Amish?
“The Keeper” kicks off a new series, Stoney Ridge Seasons, about three sisters. Each sister will take a turn as the main character (Julia in “The Keeper,” Sadie in “The Haven,” M.K. in “The Lesson). The series is set in the same town of Stoney Ridge, with a few crossover characters.

Years ago, on my very first visit to Lancaster County, I came across an Amish farm with a red windmill. I stopped in, visited with the family, and a friendship developed.

In the back of my mind, I wanted to create a story about an Amish family that doesn’t quite meet your image of the Amish—because that’s how I have felt about the Amish. They are always surprising me! Endlessly fascinating. This series introduces the Lapps--a quirky family that doesn’t quite fit, though they have huge hearts.

Interested? Meet them in “The Keeper!”

How do you describe “The Keeper” to potential readers? What is it about?
The basic storyline is about Julia, the eldest sister, as she tries to convince her former fiancé to “man up” and marry her. Along comes Roman Troyer, known as the Bee Man for his migratory beekeeping, to complicate matters for Julia. You’ll meet Julia’s family and discover added layers of the story through their lives.

What drew you to write this story? Why a story about an Amish beekeeper?
I had read in “The Budget” (an Amish-Mennonite newspaper) about a fellow who traveled from place to place with a horse pulling a white wagon. That’s what gave me the idea and then I morphed it into a beekeeper—someone who needed to take his bees from community to community to pollinate the orchards/fields.

I interviewed a commercial beekeeper over in the valley in California—he had lots of information about how a hobby beekeeper would manage (traveling at night, for example, when the bees are calm and quiet).

Would someone who is Amish choose to live a nomad life like this?
I've met a lot of young Amish people who are crazy about traveling. They head off on mission trips (rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina) or join disaster relief (fire fighting) using the Mennonite relief organizations. Or take bus trips out to the national parks.

So in some ways, I could see an Amish person living such a life. Maybe not as detached from community as Roman Troyer…but then again (as you will read)…he had “issues.”

How did you decide to weave in the storyline of a heart transplant? Is this something that might have truly happened in the Amish community?
Organ transplants are acceptable for most Amish. Menno and Amos’ story might be stretching things a little, but I do know of organ transplant recipients among the Amish.

I chose the heart transplant because of a wonderful man in my church who shared his transplant with me. Some of Amos’ lines are directly taken directly from this faith-filled gentleman.

Here’s a brief example, as Amos is wheeled off for the transplant.
“Joy will come in the morning.” Either way, he meant.

Which character in the book was your favorite? Why?
Mary Kate (M.K.), the youngest sister, was so much fun to write—her character jumps off the page. I just turned in the manuscript for her story (book 3) and there were no revisions! Woohoo!

But I loved Sadie, too, and Rome—wow. What a guy. One reader wrote that she is praying for a fellow like Rome Troyer to head her way! I’m praying for her, too.

What do you hope readers take away from the book?
God has a plan. His plans don’t always suit us, they don’t always make us happy, but His ways are always best.

What has God taught you through writing this book?
This last year, there have been some extra pressures on my extended family that could have easily de-railed meeting deadlines…but God is so faithful. Word by word, book by book, He guided me toward completion.

I’m not saying my books are the world’s best—but I know God is working with me to write a book that is better than the one before it. That’s my goal—to continually improve my craft. He is answering that prayer.

Why write Amish fiction? What do you like about this genre?
For me, it’s not about the buggies and bonnets and beards. It’s really about faith-based communities. Next year, I’ll be starting an historical Quaker series for Revell, set in Nantucket during the whaling period. What draws me to faith-based communities is their desire to live a life pleasing to God.

Anything else you’d like to share?
In the summer of 2012, I have a new project releasing: A children’s chapter book series called “The Adventures of Lily Lapp.” I’m co-writing the stories with Mary Ann Kinsinger, a popular blogger (www.ajoyfulchaos.com) who was raised Old Order Amish.

Mary Ann’s childhood is the inspiration for the series. I am so excited about it! The books are similar to “Little House on the Prairie”—a peek into the windows of a happy, healthy family, living a different kind of life. And even though it’s aimed at children, there is something enjoyable for all ages. Fans of Amish fiction will love this series.

I enjoy interacting with readers. You can find me at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SuzanneWoodsFisherAuthor and on Twitter: www.twitter.com/SuzannewFisher

Thanks for hosting me today, Kaylea!

More About The Book
Julia Lapp has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. When Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding--again--she knows who is to blame. Perpetual bachelor and spreader of cold feet, Roman Troyer, the Bee Man.

Roamin' Roman travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. He relishes his nomadic life, which keeps him from thinking about all he has lost. He especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia on a mission to punish him for inspiring Paul's cold feet, the Lapp farm is looking decidedly less pleasant.

Can Julia secure the future she's always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind?

More About The Author
Suzanne's interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, W.D. Benedict, who was raised Plain. She has many, many Plain relatives living in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and travels back to Pennsylvania, as well as to Ohio, a couple of times each year for research.

Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they provide wonderful examples to the world. In both her fiction and non-fiction books, she has an underlying theme: You don't have to "go Amish" to incorporate many of their principles--simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily-- into your life.

When Suzanne isn't writing or bragging to her friends about her first new grandbaby (!), she is raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To Suzanne's way of thinking, you just can't take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.

Online Resources
Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.
Buy The Keeper online
Follow the blog tour here!
Follow her on Facebook
Follow her tweets on Twitter

It's A Contest
It’s a “Honey of a Giveaway” from Suzanne Woods Fisher!

Suzanne is hosting a "honey of a giveaway"during the blog tour for The Keeper! During 1/3-1/17 you can enter to win an iPad2 from Suzanne and connect with her on January 17th at The Keeper Facebook Party!

During the giveaway one Grand Prize winner will receive a Prize Pack valued at $600:

A brand new 16 KB iPad 2 with Wi-Fi
A $25 gift certificate to iTunes
A copy of The Keeper

But wait there's more! Just click one of the icons below to enter, then on 1/17 join Suzanne for The Keeper Facebook Party! During the party Suzanne will announce the winner of the "Honey" of an iPad Giveaway and host a fun book chat and give away some fun "honey" inspired prizes - It'll be 'sweet"!

RSVP early and tell your friends!

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group.. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Finding Rest In Random Ways

2012-01-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

You made what? While I'm not going "granola" I did spend time Saturday making my own laundry soap.

I've been wanting to do this for quite a while - my cousin and others have been telling me about making your own soap for two distinct reasons: 1) You can control the scent and 2) it's budget friendly.

So when I found myself staring at the laundry soap today at the store - and being frustrated at a) the price and b) the scents (it seems I've become a bit extra sensitive to some of the smells), I thought, "I have extra time, why not try Rebecca's recipe."

So I found myself purchasing the ingredients and making soap - a batch of liquid AND a batch of powder soap (I found that recipe thru Google)..

Ingredients For Both Recipes

Borax Laundry Booster - $3.38 (box)

Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda - $3.24 (box)

Three pack Ivory Soap - $1.24

Supplies:

For Both: A Cheese Grater (I started with the one pictured and ended up with a hand-held small grater.)

For The Liquid - a sauce pan, measuring cup and wisk.

For The Powder - a bowl, spoon and measuring cup.

Grate the soap, like cheese. I found the smaller grater worked easier (along with a small bowl, rather than a plate).

Rebecca's Liquid Soap

Ingredients:
1 Cup of Borax

1 Cup of Washing Soda

1 Bar of Soap
(I used Ivory, my cousin has used Dove.)

3 gallons of water

Directions:

Grate the bar of soap, and mix it into the borax, soda and water.

Heat over a medium/low heat until it is clear.

Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. When it cools, it will get this "gel like" texture. Mix it up (she said you can whip it with a mixer if you like). Pour it into a gallon bucket (or re-use bottles like I did). Make sure to leave enough room in the bottles so you can "shake" or mix it up before each use.

Note: I made a third of the recipe, because I don't have a huge pot, like my cousin. This made two "regular size" bottles of soap (about what I would have paid at least $8 for each, at Walmart).

Use a bit more than you would of "commercial" soap, because it's not as concentrated.

Powdered Laundry Soap

I found the powdered recipe here.

Ingredients:
1 Cup Borax

1 Cup Washing Soda

1 Bar of Soap (again, I used Ivory, since I had a three pack), grated.

Directions:

Mix the grated soap, the borax and soda in a bowl until it becomes a very fine powder. This recipe makes approx. 32 ounces of powder. Store in a sealed container.

Use 1 to 2 tablespoons per load of wash. I had a small scoop that I decided would work great for this.

It was easier - in that you don't have to "cook" it,

You do the same steps, but you don't add water, obviously. The Ivory soap grated well.

So Why Did I Do This.....
It's been a long week. I've felt like I've been wound up, tighter than a 10-day-alarm clock trying to get everything done. As I drove away from Upward's practice, I realized for the first time since the New Year, that I really didn't have anything to do this afternoon.

I knew I wanted to work on my One Little Word project, and read a bit, but for the most part, I didn't need to go anywhere or do anything.

That's how I ended up at the store, purchasing laundry soap (or the ingredients) because well, I could do laundry while watching a movie this afternoon.

It took more than an hour for me to "unwind." Having to grate bars of soap proved a "great" way to make me rest, because well, you can't "hurry" that process.

I also had to "wait" and "rest" while the soap "cooked" on medium heat. While it didn't take a lot of effort, I just couldn't leave my apartment because well, the stove was on.

So I watched Netflix (yes a crime show...and even started watching a movie).

And I sat. quiet. resting.

Finding peace.

I guess that's a good trade off for making laundry soap today.

Quote of the Day: Creativity

2012-01-14T09:00:00.000-06:00

"Creativity isn’t just the things we chose to put in, it’s also the things we chose to leave out."

~ Austin Kleon from "How to Steal Like an Artist (And 9 Other things Nobody Told Me)"

All too true..... thanks Ali Edwards for the quote that makes me think today.....

Twelve on the Twelfth: January 2012

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

Several scapbooking sites are promoting a new idea this year: Capture twelve photos on the twelfth of each month, during 2012. (You can read more about this idea here).

I decided to try this - at least for one month - to see what photos I could take. It sounds easy, but actually, I had to consciously think about what photos would be in my "twelve."

Here's the shots from 01.12.12. Some are pretty boring, but they actually capture a compete snapshot of my life today.

Not So Early Morning Wake Up Call: I didn't really want to get up this morning - I spent time after my alarm went off, laying in bed listening to NPR give results for the recent presidential primaries. It reminded me that I really need to register to vote with my new Arkansas address. (I always wake up listening to NPR).

Taking Note Of The Weather: Canadian winds I guess - brought snow to NWA and cold weather to Little Rock. Made it hard to get out of bed and the warm covers today.

Self Portrait Of The Day: I decided to try wearing my contacts today, the first time since "eyegate" 3-1/2 months ago. I made it most of the day before coming home to swap out for my glasses.

First Stop Of The Morning: I decide to use my free "sweet 15" coupon to get a vanilla, caramel latte. I bought a Venti because, well, it was free. I've realized that I'm satisfied with a "Tall," - because I never finish the venti size when it's in my hands.

I forgot that they were having taste tests this week at the "bux" for their new coffee. I found out I'm "mellow" because I like the new "blond" roast.

So it was a double "free" day at Starbucks - a free latte and a free "pot" of blond coffee.

It was also interesting, because during my stop I ran into three parents from St. James (one kidz ministry, two Upward dads). It was one of the first "small town" feeling things I've had happen since moving to Little Rock.

One Of Today's Tasks: Making sure the children's bulletins for both worship services were printed on time. I don't always remember on Thursday...but this week, I did!

Still Aunt Kaylea: I may be in Little Rock, but I can still send the scrapbooking stuff (thanks to Carl's meeting in Little Rock today) so Kiki can have a scrapbook "theme" birthday party on Saturday. Fortunately, this was part of what got unpacked and sorted over the Christmas holiday.

Shoveling Away: I'm trying to weave through the pile of stuff in my planner - I just seem to be on "catch up" all the time. Would like to be ahead at some point.

The Week's Big Event: The First Soupier Games. Trying to organize a HUGE district event - with lots of help, thanks to Laura and the crew. We have at least eight churches and more than 75 kids and adults coming to tomorrow night's event. Exciting times!

What I'm Reading Today: The Jerk Magnet by Melody Carson. One of the newest young adult books I'm reading, to review for Revell Books. It's a decent read for probably younger high school gals. (Maybe even middle school.) It focuses on the idea that you can't judge a book by it's cover (or in this case, a girl by her beauty.)

Upward, My Upward. Two weeks into the 2012 season. Still working out the bugs, but things are going OK. (And we haven't needed the first aid kit yet!) Seeing the kids have fun makes all of the stress worth it.

Feeling Special: Today I wore a pair of my Christmas shoes - that John bought me. It was an unexpected Christmas present - but he wanted to take me shoe shopping because he knows shoes are one of the last things I'll buy for myself. Wearing these today made me think of our friendship and how it's grown over the years - since we first met my sophomore year in college. It takes a really good friend to go shoe shopping with ya. I'm glad John's in that category

Finding My Writing Niche: I'm trying to write more - for myself on my blog. It's a dose of creativity. I'm not sure I can keep it up, but so far, I've posted on my blog each day in 2012. If I miss a day, it will be ok... but I'd like to see how many days I can post in 2012. (This picture also reminds me that I need to re-design the blog - maybe that's a task for a snow day.)

Blog Tour: Shadow of Your Smile (Review)

2012-01-12T10:00:00.000-06:00

What would you do if you woke up and 25 years of your life was gone?

Noelle faces a new reality - and a blank past - when she wakes up from an accident without a memory. She is left trying to build her future, without letting her past tear her down.

In The Shadow of Your Smile, Susan May Warren examines the life and marriage of Noelle and Eli Hueston, and how secrets, pain and grief can tear down the very structure of a marriage.

I found this book a bit heavier than Warren's usual contemporary romance novels. At times it was down right sad. But I think ultimately, Warren has captured a side of marriage - and life - that normally doesn't find its way into the a novel.

Frankly, she has captured well, reality. She shows what goes into a marriage when the "for worst" pops up.

Yes it's a novel, and yes, there's a "happy ever after" ending. But ultimately, Warren portrays one key message when it comes to marriage - it must be built upon the love of Jesus.

On a scale of one to five, with five being the highest, I give it a three. It's not my favorite Warren book,(frankly, I like the humor in her PJ Sugar series) but it's a solid addition to the Deep Haven series. If you are wanting a novel that makes you think - or are ready for another visit ot Deep Haven, then this is the book for you.

More About The Book
(From The Publisher)
A beautiful blanket of snow may cover the quaint town of Deep Haven each winter, but it can’t quite hide the wreckage of Noelle and Eli Hueston’s marriage.

After twenty-five years, they’re contemplating divorce . . . just as soon as their youngest son graduates from high school. But then an accident erases part of Noelle's memory. Though her other injuries are minor, she doesn’t remember Eli, their children, or the tragedy that has ripped their family apart. What’s more, Noelle is shocked that her life has turned out nothing like she dreamed it would. As she tries to regain her memory and slowly steps into her role as a wife and mother, Eli helps her readjust to daily life with sometimes-hilarious, sometimes-heartwarming results. But can she fall in love again with a man she can’t remember?

Will their secrets destroy them . . . or has erasing the past given them a chance for a future? Read the story behind the story here: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/books/the-shadow-of-your-smile.

More About The Author
Susan May Warren is an award-winning, best-selling author of over twenty-five novels, many of which have won the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, the ACFW Book of the Year award, the Rita Award, and have been Christy finalists. After serving as a missionary for eight years in Russia, Susan returned home to a small town on Minnesota’s beautiful Lake Superior shore where she, her four children, and her husband are active in their local church.

Susan's larger than life characters and layered plots have won her acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. A seasoned women’s events and retreats speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Susan makes her home in northern Minnesota, where she is busy cheering on her two sons in football, and her daughter in local theater productions (and desperately missing her college-age son!)

A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at: www.susanmaywarren.com.

Online Resources
Follow the blog tour here!
Buy it at Amazon

It's A Contest
Come Back to Deep Haven and Win a $200 Visa Card from @SusanMayWarren!

Sometimes love requires a little forgetting ... Come back to Deep Haven and find out what's been happening in your favorite quaint hamlet. If you're new to the Deep Haven series - this is the perfect book to start with - each book in the series is a stand alone story.

Susan is celebrating the release of The Shadow of Your Smile by giving away a prize pack worth over $200 from 1/9-1/28.

One grand prize winner will receive:

A $200 Visa Gift Card (Use that to rekindle a little romance, treat yourself to a spa day, snap up those shoes you’ve been eyeing, or purchase a few great books!)

The entire set of Deep Haven Books

The winner will be announced on 1/30/12 on Susan’s blog, Scribbles! Just click one of the icons below to enter and tell your friends about Susan's giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Quote of the Day: Joy

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Just something to think about today....to remember that joy ultimately comes from relinquishing control.

Maybe a lesson I need to learn in life.

Found on Pinterest, (source: http://homegrownhospitality.typepad.com/homegrown_hospitality)

Random iPhone pic

2012-01-12T00:08:00.001-06:00

Found this on my phone. Not sure when I saved it.

Decided to share it as my test Blogger ap post. Wanted to see how a "mobile" post looked - and if I liked typing a blog post with my thumbs. Lol.

So enjoy!

A Lesson In Sharing

2012-01-11T21:50:00.000-06:00

During Tween Time tonight, we started our new study/series on the subject of service.

My goal for this semester is to start building a culture of service within the kidz ministry at St. James.

The lesson focused on learning to share what we have, using the model from Acts 2:44 (NLT) "and all believers met together in one place and shared everything they had."

To do this, we made “Sharing Soup," that the girls (our guys were absent tonight) could share with someone - maybe a teacher, or a friend, or even a neighbor.

We did this by mixing in a large bowl:

1 lb. dried lentils
1 lb. split green peas
1 lb. pearl barley
1 lb. brown rice
1 lb. alphabet (or elbow) macaroni
2 cups instant onion flakes

Once you mix the dry ingredients together in a large bowl and stir, you divide up the soup into resealable bags - 1-1/2 cups of the mixture at the time. You keep making bags until the mixture is completely divided. It made at least seven bags.

When you are finished, you attach a card with this info to the dried ingredients

“Sharing Soup”

1-1/2 cups of dry soup mix

6 cups water

Simmer for 1-1/2 hours

Then add ingredients of your choice, such as celery,

shredded cabbage, tomatoes and/or leftover meat.

As I share this soup, I’m sharing my faith.

Remember, that Jesus Loves You!

I guess part of this lesson sunk in, because during the prayer time, I asked the girls to think about one thing/way they could share with others this week – and give it as an offering to God.

Here’s what they said:

My Talent

I can share my time

Love (x 2)

I will share my soup.

My awesomeness

I can share God’s love

When my friend’s pencil ruined, I gave her my pen.

I really like working with the T2 kids - even when they drive me crazy when it seems like they are ignoring me. That's life right? Short attention spans, big hearts. One mom already told me on Facebook that her daughter plans to share her soup with her teacher tomorrow.

I really hope this semester lives up to my goal. I think these kiddos could truly "rock the world" if I can "tap into" their passion for service.

We'll see what happens.

Welcome 2012.....

2012-01-11T09:00:00.000-06:00

As I started to wrap up the January One Little Word assignment, one of the things left on the "check list" included taking a photo of myself.

Ok, let's face it. I'm a lot more comfortable on the other side of the lens - definitely not on the "front" side.

But in the spirit of the class, I decided to take the picture - in a non-traditional way.

Using the Pocketbooth ap on my phone - I took a series of "photo strips" and ended up creating a mosaic photo. (I bought this ap a year ago, and it was well worth the .99 cent price tag!)

Click here for details.

Random, quirky and well just a bit of fun. Who said the assignment had to be normal.......

So welcome 2012....ready or not, here I am!

Need a Laugh?

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

A humorous look at the "cost" of using cell phones in a church.... please watch with humor... it might even make you smile....come on, ya know we've all thought it when someone's phone went off during prayer time....or worse, during the sermon.....(and yes, I was guilty of being on my phone during the service Sunday, answering a text from a parent....)

Remembering Your Baptism

2012-01-09T09:00:00.000-06:00

Sunday's service at church focused on remembering the importance of baptism.

I think one of the messages that resonate from me is that baptism is a sign of God's love & grace in my life - that began as an act of my parents (and the congregation of our United Methodist Church), and now is something I claim as an adult.

I joked that today's service made me want to have a sketch pad, to make a visual representation of what I was hearing - which is shocking, because I'm not an avid sketcher.

Instead, I settled for snapping a few pics at the end of the service.

I'm still processing the service - and the liturgy.

But it reminded me of the importance of baptism as a sacrament.

Baptism is the beginning of the faith journey.

I'm thankful that it is part of my journey.

Blog Tour: That's My Girl (Review)

2012-01-08T20:23:00.000-06:00

I didn't know what to expect when I had a chance to review "That's My Girl" by Rick Johnson.

I hoped the book would not only be a resource that dad's could use, but also one that didn't come across as preachy or obnoxious.

Well, I can safely say that I can recommend this book to the dads in my ministry.

Johnson has written a intriguing parenting book that weaves together insight from his life as a dad, along with stories from raising a strong-willed daughter (with her permission).

This book has an authentic tone. Johnson's writing style is warm and inviting. I can't explain it, but you can almost feel how much he cares for his daughter. This is especially true as he describes the different aspects of their relationship and how other dads can learn from it.

I'll admit, at times, Johnson seemed well, a bit conservative. But his tone helps keep the book from being "overbearing." It's definitely not obnoxious or preachy. Instead the reader is allowed to make their own decision and judgement about the content of the book.

I could definitely see this as a small group resource for a dad's group since each chapter ends with a couple of discussion questions.

In all, I give this book a solid four (on a scale of one to five). If you know a dad of daughters, you might want to pass this book along to them. I'm planning to give it to a friend who is raising four girls - ages kindergarten to sixth grade. I think - based upon recent conversations - he will find this a worthy resource.

More About The Book
(From The Publisher)
Dad, you shape your daughter's future.

You impact every aspect of your daughter's life. You show her how women should be treated, how men should act, and how a man shows healthy love and affection toward a woman. And, perhaps most importantly, you set the standard for how your daughter feels she deserves to be treated by men.

This is a big responsibility, and it's not always easy to carry out.

But parenting expert Rick Johnson is here to help. In That's My Girl, Rick shows you how to develop the close relationship with your daughter that you both crave. His plainspoken common sense, humor, and advice will give you the confidence and the encouragement you need to take up the active, positive role that can change your daughter's life--starting now.

More About The AuthorRick Johnson is a bestselling author of That's My Son; That's My Teenage Son; Better Dads, Stronger Sons; and Becoming Your Spouse's Better Half.

He is the founder of Better Dads and is a sought-after speaker at many large parenting and marriage conferences across the United States and Canada.

Johnson, his wife, Suzanne, and their grown children live in Oregon. To find out more about Rick Johnson, visit www.betterdads.net.

Online Resources
Read an excerpt here.
Buy it at Amazon.com
Buy it at Barnes & Noble
Buy it at a local bookstore.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell Publishing, a division of Baker Books. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Project 365+1 (Today's photo & more!)

2012-01-07T21:18:00.002-06:00

Last year I decided to try Project 365 - taking a photo each day, to capture a slice of my life.

I did pretty good, only "falling off the wagon" when I had a detached retina/surgery in September... (but that's another story).

When I sat down to put together my Christmas card together, I had a ton of fun sorting through photos and picking out a few highlights to showcase.

So when January came around, I decided to start again. Last year, I just didn't think I could do this...this year, I can't imagine living without this way of capturing my life.

One thing I found as a resource to use in this journey is Capture Your 365 (http://captureyour365.com/) - a daily prompt to just "get the juices flowing" and provide some ideas on what to take each day.

Today's prompt involved capturing your One Little Word in a new way.

Since I'm a wordy person, I decided to take a photo of my word as it appears in The Synonym Finder (by J, I. Rodale). (See the top photo!)

Before I sign off, here's a few of the photos I took this week, as part of my renewed Project 365+1. The photos are shown through the lens of http://instagr.am/ (one of my favorite aps) and http://www.dipticapp.com/ (an ap that lets you put more than one photo in an instagr.am photo!)

So how are you capturing 2012?

OLW: Why Rest

2012-01-06T15:30:00.000-06:00

I'm still pondering my word for 2012....

Part of the assignment for this square included really just explore "why" I picked this word.

I'm still trying to really embrace my word, understand what it means to me and how it might impact this new year.

So no deep profound thoughts...just taking the journey one step at a time.

OLW: Spell With Flicker: Rest

2012-01-05T09:00:00.000-06:00

I love Spell With Flickr

It's just a fun way to spell words using a variety of photo letters.

I saw a cool idea - to print these out as 4x6's and turning it into a framed letter sign.

That may be a future project - on a weekend that a embrace the meaning of "rest."

This has almost made me want to start my own collection of letter photos.

What word would you spell with photos?

OLW: Defining My Word, Part 2

2012-01-04T23:05:00.000-06:00

Another part of the January assignment for OLW involved finding words that are similar - synonyms - that help tell the story of the word.

It was actually kind of interesting to see the words that were linked to "rest."

Who knew "coffee break" and "Sabbath" were related to rest...although my perfect rest would be sitting at Starbucks with a beverage - either shaken ice tea or mocha frappachino - and a Sunday New York Times and at least an hour or more to read it..

I'm hoping this card helps me continue to define this word and watch how it evolves during 2012.

So here's to the next stop in the journey..... savoring this process...

OLW: Defining My Word

2012-01-03T23:36:00.000-06:00

I've started working through the January assignment for the OLW class. One of the first pieces of the word puzzle, is to find a definition that explains your word.

Out of the multitude of definitions for rest - everything from the interval of silence in a musical piece, to the absence of motion - I've isolated three, which seem to be at the heart of why I my word for 2012 is "rest."

Spot of Light by Ayla87

I want to find the peace and tranquility shown in this picture. I think it really showcases the last definition: "a sunbeam rest upon an altar." What an amazing word picture that truly captures the mood of what you can accomplish - or find - when you truly rest.

So here's to a way to find rest in the midst of the chains known as life.

....Because I'm trying to "dwell" or "linger" on this project - I'm breaking the first assignment into lots of chunks - and will probably share it in progress here; kind of as a form of accountability.....

OLW 2012: Rest

2012-01-02T23:22:00.002-06:00

Well I did it. I picked "Rest" as my word for 2012.

I really think it chose me - rather than me picking it.

It just seemed like the last few weeks, I've been hearing a message that revolves around one word - Rest.

I'm still trying to figure out what it means to me - and how it will impact 2012.

To start my journey, I signed up tonight to take Ali Edwards' One Little Word class at Big Picture Classes (formerly Big Picture Scrapbooks). You can read more about it in her blog post here: http://aliedwards.com/2011/12/one-little-word-2012.html.

I've thought about it for awhile, I almost took the class in 2011, but I talked myself out of it. This year, I talked myself "into" taking it for several reasons.

I want to experience an Ali Edwards class. I've followed her blog for several years (and interviewed her by email at least once for a freelance project). I admire lots of things about her - including her outlook on life. I especially love how she tells her life story through scrapbooking and journaling. A few years ago, she called herself a "life artist" and I've loved that description - and have embraced it as a way to describe the type of writing/photography I've done as a journalist.

I also thought this class would help give me structure. I hope the assignments will help me really dig into my word - which will let me truly embrace my word, letting me live and learn throughout the year.

I want to savor my word.. I really want to let it shape and mold me. It's my hope that It also lets me deepen my faith.

I feel like I've just taken the first step on a year long journey today by signing up for the class.

So here we go!

A Final Thought - My One Little Words
(yes, I usually end up with two words each year)

Can you see a theme emerging?

2007 - Wonder & Seek

2008 - Simplicity & Joy

2009 - Dream & Hope

2010 - Half-Full & See

2011 - New & Renew

2012 - Rest

BTW, if you are interested in taking this class, or signing up for Big Picture Classes, I'd be grateful if you use this referral code: C09B0869. If I understand the refer a friend program, once you purchase your first class, we'll both get a 10 percent off the future purchase of a class.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T22:25:00.000-06:00

Found this on a friend's Facebook wall (originally posted by Melissa Bolton. I thought this was a great way to sum up the beginning of 2012!

Here's to a "sparkly, do-over, shiny" new year!

So Happy New Year!

A Year Full Of Memories

2011-12-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

I saw this idea pop up on a friend's Facebook feed, and well, it struck me as a great way a family - or an individual - could jot down a few memories for 2012.

A Memory Jar.

The original author (see below for source) said she kept a stack of 4x4 pieces of paper next to a Mason Jar, along with things to write with.

Every few days someone in the family would jot down something that made their family laugh or smile. On New Year's Eve (think Dec. 31, 2012), the family bulled out the papers, unfolded each one and read through a year's worth of memories.

Simple huh?

But the cool thing - what struck me as I read this - is that a lot of times we dwell on the "junk" that happens in life. This jar helps the entire family remember the "good" stuff.

Kind of a gratitude journal for multiple generations.

There were a few other cool ideas on the blog post I found this idea - like a memory box of days - you might want to check it out!

Source: http://steamykitchen.com/19992-memory-jar.html#.TvyNpYw24_I.facebook

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 12 - Jesus, The Reason For The Season

2011-12-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!
Merry Christmas from all of us at Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoyed these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you missed a few posts, I hope you'll be able go back through and read them on this blog over the next few days. If you'd like to keep up with Pearl Girls and our new book project, Mother of Pearl, coming this spring, just click this link and sign up for our newsletter (lower left sidebar).

Also, just a reminder that today is the last day for the pearl necklace and earrings giveaway! Enter now by filling out this {form}. The winner will on 1/1 at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Jesus -- The Reason For the Season
By: Rachel Hauck
Through the narrow scope of 2000 years, Mary, the mother of Jesus, appears to be one lucky woman. Chosen by God to give birth to His son, the Savior of the world? All right, Mary, way to go.

“Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you,” Gabriel said.

How many of us would like a declaration like that? Highly favored. The Lord is with you. But Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.

The angel told her, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Mary’s seems confident and resolved when she responds, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”

She’d just been told the Holy Spirit will come upon her, that God’s power will overshadow her, that she’d become with child even though she wasn’t married, and she said, “I’m the Lord’s servant. Let your words be true.”

I find this amazing! A young woman. Ancient Bethlehem. Unwed mother. They stoned women for such things in her day. But Mary believed in God. And submitted to His will. He gave her the Holy Spirit – the same Holy Spirit given to us. If He gave her confidence, He will give us confidence. Even though, like Mary, our situation seems impossible.

Listen to Mary’s song later on in the first chapter of Luke.

“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me Holy is his name…”

Conceiving a child out of wedlock, by Divine intervention. Not a girl’s every day existence. Yet she had a Yes in her heart to God. She rejoiced. She boldly said, “Generations will remember me!”

How we struggle to trust God with our children. Our finances. Our emotional well-being. We worry. We fret. And wonder why we have no peace.

Christmas is the season where words like joy, peace and love are bantered around like Christmas candy. Let’s not take them as just words, but as truth. Let’s be like Mary and embrace God’s favor on our lives. Boldly declare "He’s done great things for me!”

Out of the grit of our own souls, we can reach His heart, and feel Him reaching for ours. No matter the pain of our past, present or future, God is there for us. He is able. Best of all, He is willing. “My soul glorifies the Lord this Christmas!”

***

Rachel Hauck is an award winning, best selling author who believes God has done great things for her. She lives in Central Florida with her husband and ornery pets. Her next release is Love Lifted Me with multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans, January 2012. Then in April, look for The Wedding Dress. www.rachelhauck.com.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 11 - The Panhandler's Breath

2011-12-24T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!

Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

The Panhandler's Breath
By Robin Dance

He slipped in sideways between the closing elevator doors, as if he were late to a meeting; he pressed the "5" without looking. Instead of suit and tie, though, baggy pants and faded navy hung on his tall, slim frame...and his stealth entry stiffened the hairs on the back of my neck.

I had noticed him a few seconds earlier, just after we had parted a sea of clamorous teens. He was smiling, grandfatherly, standing maybe 30 feet away where the electric shuttle picks up.

I had no idea he had been watching us, studying us, predator patiently awaiting his next prey.

The four of us were sealed in a four- by six-foot metal tomb. Tomb--that thought really scampered across my mind. I wondered if he had a knife in his pocket. I wanted to protect my son. Fight or flight pumped adrenaline but there was no where to run.

Extreme and ridiculous, these thoughts - and more - flashed through my mind. The Stranger began speaking.

"Yessir, I see you're a family man with your wife and your son here..." and he nodded in my and my son’s direction.

"...you see I'm homeless and all I've got..." and on queue, he reached into his left pocket and pulled out two old pennies blackened with age. Two cents to his name?! It was all too contrived, too practiced, and I didn't believe a word he was saying.

It was then I smelled it ~ the small space lent itself to that ~ and I doubted my doubt.

His breath.

It wasn't the scent of alcohol. His eyes weren't red, his voice didn't waver; his wizened face matched his graying hair.

His breath was morning's, zoo breath, the pet name I'd given to the scent inhaled when kissing my children awake when they were little.

He needed to brush his teeth. I wondered how long it had been since he brushed his teeth.

The elevator door opened and I handed him my leftover pizza as my son and I brushed past him. My husband handed him a bill and the Stranger thanked and God blessed him.

The elevator door closed behind us. Conflicted, I was relieved.

We got in the car and blurted first reaction--

"I didn't believe a word he said."

"That made me nervous."

"I wonder if he'll really eat the pizza."

In the quiet, we were left to our own thoughts, contemplating the right thing to do. At the end of the day, this is what I decided: It doesn't matter whether or not his story is true; for an old man to resort to begging, he has to be desperate. The money my husband gave him will never be missed. It was a reminder we've been entrusted with much and given much. Materially, yes, but more so spiritually. Loved, chosen, forgiven, redeemed, graced, lavished--every spiritual blessing. E v e r y.

There's a part of me that wishes I would have been brave enough to ask the man his story, made sure he knew he was loved...and bought him a tooth brush.

Later, it occurred to me he could have been an angel. Doesn’t that mean generosity, kindness and hospitality is always the right response? Then it's not about you or the stranger or the circumstance, it's about a simple, God-glorifying response.

Had we entertained an angel unaware? We'll never know.

But it wouldn't be the first time the Breath of Heaven smelled like a zoo.

***

In a decades-old, scandalous affair with her husband, Robin also confesses mad crushes on her three teens. As Southern as sugar-shocked tea, she’s a recovering people pleaser who advocates talking to strangers. A memoirist, Compassion International Blogger, and Maker-upper of words, Robin writes for her own site, PENSIEVE, and also for (in)courage by DaySpring (a subsidiary of Hallmark) and Simple Mom. She loves to get to know readers through their blog comments and on Twitter and Pinterest. www.pensieve.me

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 10 - Inside Out Christmas

2011-12-23T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!

***

Inside Out Christmas
by Debora M. Coty

My veterinarian friend, Dr. Katie, tells the story about the December when a woman brought a very sick black lab into her clinic. The dog was only ten months old, so she was really just a big puppy, but she’d been vomiting incessantly and her worried owner didn’t know what was wrong.

“Why don’t you go on home?” Dr. Katie told the owner. “I’ll need to run tests for about four hours. We’ll give you a call when we’re finished.”

Dr. Katie’s assistant took x-rays and hung them on the light panel for Dr. Katie to examine. Hmm. Something looked a little peculiar. Dr. Katie called her assistant over.

“Is it just me, or does that look like a … a camel to you?” she asked incredulously.

“Matter of fact, it does,” replied the astute assistant. “And look, there’s an angel here, a shepherd there, and down there in the colon, it’s Baby Jesus!”

At that moment the phone rang. It was the dog’s distraught owner. “I can’t believe this! I just got home and glanced at the coffee table where I put my manger scene yesterday. There’s nothing there but an empty stable!”

As I thought about this quite literal technique for internalizing the true meaning of Christmas, it occurred to me that sometimes I have the opposite problem. With all the bustling busyness, my inner joy in celebration of my savior’s birth never really makes it to the outside.

Oh, I have plenty of glittery, festive evidences of the holiday in decorations, baking galore, and gifts under my tree. But those things are for show. They’re merely the pretty wrappings, not the gift itself.

Can people really see the core-deep joy that radiates within me when I think of the true gift that Papa God sent the world in his son, Jesus? Is my immeasurable gratitude for eternal life evident as I dash through this hectic season?

I’m afraid all too often, the answer is no.

I’m just too preoccupied to allow my outside to reflect my inside so that nonbelievers recognize that I rejoice because of the hope that is within me. My joy is obscured by the mounds of clutter. Gratefulness is sucked out of my soul by the vacuum called urgency.

“But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God’s presence. Let them be filled with joy” (Psalm 68:3, NLT).

This verse has become my prayer this Christmas season – that I would make the time to give priority to rejoicing, being glad in God’s presence, and letting my inner joy show for those who may be silently desperate to know the giver of true joy.

Yep, there’s a better way to internalize the gift of Christmas than the black lab technique. We can lodge the Little Lord Jesus in our hearts rather than our colons.

***

Debora M. Coty is a humorist, inspirational speaker, and award-winning author of twelve books, including Too Blessed to be Stressed, and coming in March, More Beauty, Less Beast: Transforming Your Inner Ogre. Debora would love to swap Christmas hugs with you at www.DeboraCoty.com.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!”

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 9 - Simple or Sparkle

2011-12-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!
Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Simple or Sparkle?
by Tracey Eyster

It’s a simple ornament made of thin cheap metal and it looks quite out of place on our CHRISTmas tree. But each year I lovingly and safely nestle it amongst its expensive and sparkly peers, without a care as to how unglamorous it appears.

Many of our CHRISTmas ornaments have a story and an uncanny way of welling up emotion in me, but this certain one causes an intense stir.

You see the ornament is engraved with the name of my grandmother, Sara, and was given to me by my mother, who ordered it from Hospice, after Grandmama’s death. Yes, the months leading up to her death carry memories of a frail and failing grandmama, but that ornament carries my thoughts to sweet CHRISTmas memories of the past.

CHRISTmas Eve dinners in her home, laughing, singing, gathering and celebrating a year filled with blessings as we remembered the birth of our Savior. CHRISTmas mornings, she was always there participating with glee, in our raucous CHRISTmas happiness. Her gifts were always bank envelopes gently tucked into the pine needles of our CHRISTmas tree, fresh cut from the property she grew up on.

All memories of my Grandmama make my heart swell. You see she was my Jesus with skin on. She lived her life full of joy, serving others and approached life selflessly with an attitude of, “What can I do for you?”

Just months before she left us, even as the Alzheimer’s was robbing her mind she shared her love of Jesus with a sweet little old lady friend, who came to know the Lord – a divine appointment. The very next day that little old lady silently slipped away to meet in person the One Sara introduced her to just the day before.

At the time I wept, realizing that regardless of our own frailties and failings, God can still use those of us who are willing to do His work and are well practiced at hearing His voice...no matter our lack of sparkle in comparison to others.

A simple life lived for Him, a simple ornament in memory of Sara...a simple truth for you to ponder.

***

Tracey Eyster wife, mom, relationship gatherer and Creator/Editor of FamilyLife’s MomLife Today is a media savvy mom making a difference where moms are, on-line. Through speaking, writing and video interviews Tracey is passionate about encouraging, equipping and advising moms on every facet of momlife. Her first book, Be The Mom will be released August 2012. You can connect with Tracey at www.momlifetoday.com, her personal site www.traceyster.com or www.twitter/momblog.com.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 8 - Enjoy The Ride

2011-12-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!

***

Enjoy the Ride!
Susan May Warren
We sit poised on the top of a cliff, a near drop off before us, that falls to a rushing river. In the middle, a bridge of snow and ice hints at our destination. My husband guns the snowmobile engine. “Ready?”

Ready? For a face plant into a tree, maybe reconstructive surgery? To feel my stomach ripped from my body as we plummet down the mountain? Let’s do it!

We live on five acres of woods in northern Minnesota that butts up to a national forest. Hence, our backyard is about a hundred thousand acres. Aside from harboring deer, lynx, fox, cougar and bear, it also makes excellent snowmobile terrain. And not long ago, Mrs. Claus gave her Santa a snowmobile for two.

I love snowmobiling. Flying over the snow, catching air over drifts. I love to drive, to be at the helm of the beast as I weave around trees and over hill and dale, my husband sitting behind me. I also love riding behind my husband as he drives, feeling those powerful arms as he’s muscling the snowmobile into the wilds. We follow unknown trails, driven by a Magellan spirit, hoping that we have enough gas to get us back to civilization. I love hanging on, simply trusting him, knowing that wherever he’s taking me, he’s going first.

But there are times, when I see where he’s taking me, and I just have to bury my head in his back. Like straight down a cliff.

However, my heart cheers, despite the terror as we gun it down the hill, over the river, up the opposite side. And, if we hadn’t let ourselves go, we would have never discovered the beauty of a winter river, a hidden jewel buried deep in the forest. Nor the exhilaration of facing the challenge together.

Further on, we find an enchanted forest of towering white pine. Catch a view of Lake Superior, discover an old cabin in the woods.

It occurs to me that snowmobiling is much like my spiritual life. Occasionally, I drive, and it’s me setting our course, weaving through the trees, getting us hopelessly lost. But when God takes the “wheel” and I hang on, trusting Him for the speed and destination, I see the scenery. I trust him to keep me safe. I trust him to bring me home, where there is an eternal supply of hot chocolate.

As Christmas season becomes more hectic, what if I let God drive? Maybe everything doesn’t have to be perfect, and maybe I don’t have to control every tradition, every holiday nuance. What if I just held on for the ride?

I’ll bet I’ll still get there, and I might even enjoy the scenery along the way.

How have you let go, and “enjoyed” the scenery of this hectic, exhilarating Christmas season?

Merry Christmas!

***

Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning author of thirty novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 7 - Family Traditions

2011-12-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!

Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Family Traditions: A Glimpse into Christmas Future
by Tricia Goyer
Have you ever thought about family traditions? As I helped my 1-year-old place ornaments on the Christmas tree this year I imagined her doing the same thing with her children—and maybe even grandchildren—one day. Traditions are beliefs and customs handed down through generations. By sharing meaningful moments with your kids you're sending yourself into the future. How amazing is that?

Sharing family traditions cause us to slow down from the busy, adult world for a while. We ignore the laundry to set out the nativity set with our kids. We set aside time in our schedules to drive around and look at Christmas lights.

Holiday traditions aren't only fun, they also help strength family bonds. Through traditions kids trust in the security of family unit. They think, “This is our family and this is what I do.” Of course, the most important thing to share isn't just what we do ... but why. Why do we put out a nativity? To remind us the real meaning of the season—Jesus coming to earth. What do the Christmas lights represent displayed on homes and on trees? They represent the Light of the World, Jesus.

Using traditions to bond our families and share our faith isn't new. I love these two Scriptures that talk about that very thing.

Exodus 12:25 says, “When you enter the land that the LORD will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony.”

Psalm 78:4 says, “We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.”

What are you're traditions? Here are a few of ours:
Baking a Birthday cake for Jesus

Buying a new ornament every year for each child

Acting out the Christmas story (with props!)

Praying together before opening presents

What are your traditions?
Write a list and appreciate them in a new way this year. Then ask, “If I could add one new tradition this holiday season, what would it be?” I'd love to hear what you choose! It also makes me smile to think of your children's grandchildren doing the same.

***

Tricia Goyer is a CBA best-selling author and the winner of two American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Awards (Night Song and Dawn of a Thousand Nights).

She co-wrote 3:16 Teen Edition with Max Lucado and contributed to the Women of Faith Study Bible. Also a noted marriage and parenting writer, she lives with her husband and children in Arkansas. www.triciagoyer.com

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 6 "Let The Baby Grow Up This Christmas"

2011-12-19T12:52:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!

Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Let The Baby Grow Up This Christmas
By Shellie Tomlinson
When I was a little girl, Christmas seemed to take forever to make its way back to our little house on the end of a dirt road called Bull Run in northeast Louisiana. We kids started counting down the days before the leaves ever began turning. Sure, the adults said it came once a year but I wasn't so sure. Once Santa Claus left our humble abode it seemed like light years before he found his way back to the Delta.

That was a child's perspective. I imagine it hasn't changed all that much for today's kids. On the other hand, I'm operating under a completely different time frame these days. It seems like it was just yesterday when I pulled the boxes down from the attic and began pulling out the nativity scene, the miniature lights, and the keepsake ornaments. And now, just that fast-- Christmas Day is right around the corner. Soon the tree will be striped naked and the piled up presents will all be distributed. After a few more day it'll be hard to remember who got what from whom, and once again, I'll start packing all the decorations away for another year.

I was thinking about how bare and cold the house always looks after the holidays when I realized that, sadly, this scene would play itself out in many hearts as well. A lot of people will have had expectations that weren't filled and many of those same souls will be left with hurts that don't seem to heal. Unless this year is remarkably different from past seasons, my bet is, the New Year will bring magazines full of articles on combating depression and the talk shows will have experts on offering ways to fill the long days ahead and cure the winter blues.

I'm no expert, dear readers, but I'd like to offer you a suggestion that will go far beyond the creature comforts of a nice warm bath or a delicious bowl of hot soup. Your heart doesn't have to be bare and naked after the holidays. Do you want to know the real secret? It's simple, really. Don't pack up Christ with Christmas! As beautiful and special as the Christmas story is, it's only a part of heaven's miracle. The Christ child grew into a man and the man became a Savior.

This year, may we be determined to let the babe from Bethlehem live on in our hearts. If we'll allow Him to become the Messiah He was born to be, the joy of Christmas can be ours all year long.

***

Shellie Rushing Tomlinson is an author, speaker, and radio host from Louisiana. Her latest release Sue Ellen's Girl Ain't Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy was endorsed by Jeff Foxworthy as "laugh out loud funny!"

You can find Shellie's weekly southern features, podcasts, video chats and more at http://www.allthingssouthern.com/ Make sure to get by the blog and read about the Super Christmas Giveaway Shellie is hosting for her readers and secure your chance to win a Mort Kunstler print valued between $700 and $1400. www.allthingssouthern.com

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

Joy?

2011-12-18T10:30:00.002-06:00

An online acquaintance/friend posted this on her blog, along with a sad update on her life. I found this quote spoke to me as I read her post because she's really trying to live out the words of this message - despite the unexpected turn in life.

I see this sentiment reflected in the lives of others, who are living lives different than they expected.

Sometimes we have to choose to find joy in life.

I'll be honest, some days - and this weekend is one - I don't know how to do this, except through prayer - and a deep faith that surpasses all understanding - and knowing that there is a God, who loves me. period.

It's times like this, that I'm profoundly grateful that I memorized this through youth group in high school:
(Apparently, I memorized the New KJV version with a few "changes"...) Numbers 6:24-26....

May the LORD bless you and keep you;
May the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you;
May the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.

That's my prayer for everyone who may want to "fix" the sorrows, but can only focus on finding joy in life.

Maybe that's my word for 2012..... hum....although it was a word I picked in the last few years....... maybe there's still a lesson to learn here.
.....

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 5

2011-12-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!
Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

The Snowflake Party
By Deborah Raney

The first snow of winter hasn’t fallen yet, but in our kitchen tonight we’re doing a pretty good imitation. The whole family is circled around the huge old oak table. The snip, snip, snip of scissors is background music as tiny scraps of white paper float down, making our floor look like a giant brownie sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Tonight has turned out to be the night for our annual Snowflake Party, a tradition that began when our children were toddlers. There has never been a date blocked out in red on our calendar, but one day we wake up and the brisk autumn air has turned bitter cold. Naked tree branches trace their stark calligraphy on a dull grey sky and we need a taste of the joyful promises of Christmas and snow. It’s the perfect time for a party.

On such a day, one of the kids will fly in the back door, fresh home from school, and declare “Hey, Mom! Tonight would be a good night for the Snowflake Party!” First we round up every pair of scissors in the house. This is one time when sharing is not a virtue. While the kids search for scissors, I cut white paper into squares and fold them caddy-corner multiple times. The resulting triangles are artfully arranged in a basket, awaiting the beginning of the party.

Later, while the supper dishes dry on the counter, I recruit a volunteer to help me stir up a big pot of hot cocoa. For the next hour it will warm on the back burner, tantalizing us with its aroma.

Now the fun begins with careful cutting and snipping, shaping plain white paper into intricate works of art. Each snowflake we create seems as unique and spectacular as the genuine variety created by God himself. As each masterpiece is unfolded, collective oohs and aahs go up.

When the last dregs of our creative juices are drained, Dad oversees the vacuum patrol while I pour cocoa into generous mugs. We spread our handiwork on the floor around us and sit, quietly admiring our work while we dunk marshmallows and sip rich chocolate.

With empty mugs piled up in the sink, it’s time for the judging to begin. There will be awards for ‘prettiest’, ‘most unusual’, and as many other categories as we need for everyone to be a winner. Dad is the judge because he studied art in college. He also usually wins one of the top prizes––because he studied art in college.

Snowflakes deemed runners-up might be pasted in scrapbooks or hung on the refrigerator. A few even “melt” into the trash that very night. But the winners are taped proudly to the picture windows in the living room for passersby to enjoy while they long for the day when genuine snowflakes will color the world clean and white.

Our oldest daughter went away to college last September. She called just after Thanksgiving to tell me that her dorm window was covered with snowflakes. No, not the real thing, but the ones she remembers from her childhood––paper ones that she spent an entire evening cutting and snipping while sipping hot cocoa.

That’s the neat thing about traditions: They go with us no matter how far from home we travel.

***

DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title. Her books have since won the RITA Award, ACFW Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Readers' Choice Award, Silver Angel, and have twice been Christy Award finalists.

After All, third in her Hanover Falls Novels series will release next spring from Howard/Simon & Schuster. Deb and her husband, Ken Raney, enjoy small-town life in Kansas. Their four children are grown now and having snowflake parties with their own children––and they all live much too far away. Visit Deb on the web at www.deborahraney.com.

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 4

2011-12-17T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas

Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Why I Decorate for Christmas
By Elizabeth Goldsmith Musser

An old cassette tape of Christmas carols—received in a package twenty years ago when we had first arrived in France as missionaries—fills our den with delightful piano music as I place one more ornament on the already over-laden Christmas tree. This one is a little white wooden rabbit with pink ears that move back and forth. It actually doesn't look much like a Christmas ornament, but I bought it for our baby Andrew when my husband Paul was in seminary, and I was working for less than minimum wage in the library. This ornament was literally all I could afford.

As I hang it on the tree today, I get goose bumps and then a rush of warmth. And that’s why I decorate for Christmas. Not to impress but to remember. I remember those lean, lean years, and God’s faithful provision for us.

There are the cross-stitched ornaments I made our first year in Montpellier—for the boys (for by now we had two sons) and Paul and me. How I ever had time to do that, I don’t know. I remember our puny little tree—the kind they sold in France back then—in a pot so that it could be replanted later. We perched that tiny tree on a small table out of baby Christopher’s reach. I guess I watered it too much, because about halfway through December, it started smelling and then stinking, and it rotted there on Christmas Day!

I smile with these memories.

I look at the other ornaments on the tree. Many were purchased—one for each boy—when we attended conferences around Europe, and that makes me smile too. Getting to travel on a missionary’s budget to exotic places! There are the waxed red bear and red baby carriage from Wales, the brightly painted clay sun and moon from Portugal, the blue and white porcelain windmill and wooden shoes from Holland, the hand-blown glass Snoopys sitting on gondolas from Venice, and the delicately decorated eggs from Prague.

Other ornaments include the little pinkish shiny ball ornament with Paul’s name written in glitter—I think he made it when he was about six , and the little red velvet bows, bought at Michael’s after Christmas one year for a dollar. They bring a unifying theme to the tree. I say this, smiling, because our tree is, and has always been throughout the years, a hodge-podge of our life. And I like it that way. I don’t think I could ever have a ‘theme’ tree. Mine is a ‘memory’ tree.

The music plays softly in the background and I smile through tears, remembering God’s incredible faithfulness to call and keep us here in France for so many years. Heart-breakingly hard years, overwhelmingly joyful years—the same years, the same amazing God, our keeper.

Before we left for the mission field, I memorized Psalm 121 in English and in French, and over the years I have held on tight to those last beautiful words of the psalm: The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever. (NASB)

Of course He will. He is God with us.

We decorate to remember Christmases past, our lives, our legacy, and mostly, for those of us who have embraced Christ, we decorate to honor and praise Him for coming to us—Emmanuel! We make our homes ready to receive the Christ Child, with soft music and candles burning and the sweet flickering of angel wings on an over-laden evergreen.

***

ELIZABETH GOLDSMITH MUSSER, an Atlanta native and the bestselling author of The Swan House, is a novelist who writes what she calls ‘entertainment with a soul.’ For more than twenty years, Elizabeth and her husband, Paul, have been involved in missions work with International Teams. They presently live near Lyon, France. The Mussers have two sons and a daughter-in-law. The Sweetest Thing (Bethany House, 2011) is Elizabeth’s eighth novel. To learn more about Elizabeth and her books, and to find discussion questions as well as photos of sites mentioned in the stories, please visit www.elizabethmusser.com and her Facebook Fan Page. www.elizabethmusser.com

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

Blog Tour: Real (Review)

2011-12-16T09:22:00.000-06:00

Wow.

If pictures are worth 1,000 words, then Shelley Malcom and Terilee Dawn Ouimette have captured a priceless treasure in their collaboration known as Real.

The book is a collection of 60 inspirational stories, illustrated by amazing, yet anonymous, photos focusing on the subject's hands.

Wow.

The publisher describes the people featured as ranging "from adolescent to elderly, former gangster to humble homeless, international refugee to hero-housewife, and pro athlete to Hollywood celebrity."

Each story and accompanying photo are unique. This book is not designed to be read straight through, but instead, savored like a fine wine or dessert.

I can see the stories - and photos - serving as a launching point for small group discussion.

There's something Real about the power of words and images. This book is the REAL deal. The photos are amazing and the stories will inspire you.

More About Real

“REAL” is a collection of 60 inspirational stories by Shelley Malcolm, with photos by Terilee Dawn Ouimette.

The stories are deeply revealing, while the photos are anonymous, focusing only on each subject’s hands. Subjects range from adolescent to elderly, from former gangster to humble homeless, international refugee to hero-housewife, from pro athlete to Hollywood celebrity.

While “Real” is her first published book, Malcolm is no stranger to creative projects, as co-owner and restorer of an historic chapel, La Perla del Mar in Shell Beach, CA, and a set designer for theater and film.

She was named Pismo Beach’s Citizen of the Year in 2011 for her extensive contributions and involvement in the community.

Malcolm graduated from University of Southern California with a degree in dental hygiene. She resides in Shell Beach, California with her husband, Doug.

Malcom has four adult children. Her interests include painting , drawing, sculpting, building, playing piano and other musical instruments, outdoor activities including hiking, ocean kayaking, running, water and snow-skiing, international travel, sewing, reading, writing and others.For more information, please visit http://marthamartha.net, http://shelleymalcolmblog.wordpress.com or http://realthebook.blogspot.com/

Online Resources
Proceeds from Real go to various charities. Want to know more? Visit http://realthebook.blogspot.com.

Cards and bookmarks, from various images in the book are available here: http://marthamartha.net/shop/shopnotecards.html

See what others thought about this book: http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13440889

Buy the book: http://marthamartha.net/shop/shopbook.html

Real - The Book from David Malcolm on Vimeo.

If the video link doesn't appear, see it here: http://marthamartha.net/media.html

Before You Go... A Q&A With Malcom

What prompted you to start this project?
Inspiration from a dream of similar images, that revealed the beauty in imperfections... the hand image is made beautiful by the life behind it, and it is a body part that is impossible to enhance or fake.

Is that why you chose the hands to symbolize a life lived?
The hand is more anonymous than a face or even eyes which show identity and emotion. Also, they portray our work, our affection, our worry, scars, and even our mistakes...

What is unique about Real?
I believe the concept is unique, the layout is different, and it feels like reading a yearbook or journal. It can easily serve as a devotional and it appeals to a widespread audience.

What do you hope the reader takes away after reading Real?
The simple pleasure of reading it, and more so, an appreciation of the beauty of authenticity of others or their own, and the "perfect plan of diversity". You can read more about this in my article on diversity located here. http://focusonwomenmagazine.net/pdf/FOWMSeptOctFinalScreen.pdf Pg. 35

With Christmas coming up, why would Real make a great gift for anyone on your gift list?
Real is artistically beautiful, gentle and inspiring, and can be enjoyed by men or women of all ages. It is easy for all to relate to and feel comfortable with. The subject matter feels familiar, even though it’s new, and readers always relate and have something to say about their hands or their story. Real stimulates memories and discussion and has even been used in several ways: a memorial, a devotional, as a hostess gift, and other gifts of course.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 3

2011-12-16T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!
Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Babbie Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)!

Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Where is Comfort and Joy Found?
By Sandy Ralya

The year 2006 ushered unwelcome emotions into my life. My husband was unhappy in his job, two of my grown children were making poor choices, my mother-in-law was showing signs of Alzheimer’s, extended-family issues were surfacing, and I was writing a book. Things only got worse. Much worse.

Early in 2007, I was asked to represent the mentoring ministry for wives I founded, Beautiful Womanhood, and lead a women’s conference in Uganda, Africa. My husband wasn’t sure if traveling to Africa was a good idea, so we committed it to prayer. While we were listening for an answer, I sensed God asking me to fast from spending, except for groceries, for thirty days. Sometimes you know that you’ve heard God’s voice because you’d never have come up with those words on your own. This was one of those times. I’d never heard of a fast from spending. Tom needed no convincing that a fast from spending came directly from the mouth of God. He still gets excited just thinking about it!

During the fast, it became clear I had used spending as a way to gain a comfort fix. When I was spending money, I felt carefree and lighthearted. Instead of dwelling on the unpleasantness in my life, I was thinking of my purchases and how they would bring me pleasure. Not until I stopped spending did I realize how short-lived the fix really was. During the fast, when I felt the urge to spend—to anesthetize my pain—I pictured myself running into the arms of Jesus, the Great Comforter. Oh, what comfort I received!

One night, I told good friends my experience of gaining comfort through the power of the Holy Spirit rather than money. I exclaimed that I had never felt so comforted. One friend then told us about a dream he’d had shortly after hearing about the invitation from Uganda. After the dream, he had awoken and recorded the following thoughts:

“. . . this is for Sandy. Christ’s redemption of women is beautiful. Beautiful Womanhood is a result of redemptive wholeness. The visuals the ministry uses on the books, etc., are like a piece of beautifully veneered furniture. There is something going on with the ministry to the brokenness of abused women. In Uganda, there are hurting, abused women, and something is connecting their need and Beautiful Womanhood. Though there is nothing wrong with veneer, it is only the topping—the covering, and without good structure it is shallow and will not hold up. It is time to add a new depth to the ministry.”

Then these verses came to my friend’s mind:

All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NL

When my friend was finished sharing, everyone in the room broke down in tears, praising God for His work in my life. I’d learned to listen and God had spoken. I’d obeyed, and He’d acted. When He acted, I was changed.

Needless to say, I packed my bags and experienced some of the best days of my life in Uganda—offering God’s comfort to His troubled women.

***

Sandy and her husband Tom have been married since 1980 and live near Grand Rapids, Michigan. They have three adult children and a growing number of grandchildren. When not writing and speaking, Sandy enjoys shopping at yard sales for vintage clothing, cooking, travelling, and drinking really good coffee (black is best) with her husband.

For more information, contact Sandy at sandy@beautifulwomanhood.com. Subscribe to Sandy’s blog at www.beautifulwomanhood.com/blog. Find Sandy on Facebook at Beautiful Womanhood. Follow Sandy on Twitter @MentoringWives.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

Nativity Told Through Facebook

2011-12-15T19:30:00.000-06:00

Here's another nativity story, as told through social media (aka Facebook). Enjoy.

Giveaway Results: My Favorite Bible

2011-12-15T09:56:00.000-06:00

Congrats to TammyIsBlessed for winning the drawing for the copy of My Favorite Bible. The results were generated using Random.org.

There were 3 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

TammyIsBlessed
maddiemommie
Mickeyrenee

Timestamp: 2011-12-15 15:51:51 UTC

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 2

2011-12-15T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!
Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Advent
By Sibella Giorello
Consider the bride's walk down the aisle. We all know where that woman in the white is going but somehow waiting for her to arrive at the altar is an essential part of the ceremony. In fact, the waiting is so essential that even cheapskate Vegas chapels include wedding marches.

Why?

Because the wait adds meaning to the moment.

At Christmas time, we tend to forget this essential truth about anticipation. We're lost to shopping malls and checklists, rushing toward December 25th so quickly that we forget the quiet joy of the month's other 24 days -- and then we wonder why we feel so empty on the 26th, amid ribbons and wrapping paper and our best intentions.

Because the wait adds meaning to the moment.

And that is why Advent is so important to Christmas.

I'm as guilty as the next harried person. This Advent was particularly tricky because just six hours before it started, I was still trying to finish a 110,000-word novel that was written over the course of the year -- written while homeschooling my kids, keeping my hubby happy, and generally making sure the house didn't fall down around us.

It's an understatement to say my free time is limited. But waiting adds meaning, and Advent is crucial to Christmas, so I've devised several Advent traditions that are simple, powerful and easy to keep even amid the seasonal rush.

When my kids outgrew the simple Advent calendars around age 7, I stole an idea from my writer friend Shelly Ngo (as T.S. Eliot said, "Mediocre writers borrow. Great writers steal." Indulge me.)

Here's how it goes: Find 24 great Christmas books, wrap them individually and place then under the tree. On the first day of Advent, take turns picking which book to open. When we did this, we would cuddle under a blanket and read aloud -- oh, the wonder, the magic! We savored "The Polar Express," howled with "How Murray Saved Christmas," and fell silent at the end of "The Tale of The Three Trees" (note: some of the picture books I chose were not explicitly about Christmas but they always echoed the message that Jesus came to earth to save us from ourselves and to love us beyond our wildest imagination. In that category, Angela Hunt's retelling of The Three Trees definitely hits the Yuletide bull's eye).

This Advent tradition lasted for about five years. It gave us rich daily discussions about the season's real meaning, without being religious or legalistic, and it increased family couch time. But like the lift-the-flap calendars, my kids outgrew the picture books.

Because the wait adds meaning, and Advent is crucial, I prayed for another way to celebrate anticipation of Christmas. By the grace of God, last year I found an enormous Advent calendar on clearance at Pottery Barn. Made of burlap, it has large pockets big enough to hold some serious bounty.

But my husband and I didn't want the kids focusing only on the materialist stuff for Advent -- we already fight that on Christmas day. We decided to fill the daily pockets with simple necessities and small gift cards. We also printed out the nativity story from Luke 2:1-21 in a large-sized font and cut each verse out. From Day 1 to Day 21, there is one verse to read aloud. The kids memorize it, then get to open their present (again, on alternating days for each person). Then we tape the verse to the wall in order. By Day 22, all the verses are on the wall, in order, and the kids now try to recite the entire nativity story from memory. That's not as difficult as it sounds because they've been memorizing one verse each day. Still, the entire recitation -- verbatim -- usually requires Day 23 and Day 24. Whoever does memorize the entire thing -- without mistakes -- earns a bonus gift of $25.

Does that sounds extravagant?

It is.

Because we want our kids to understand that God came down and humbled himself and taught us about love right before He suffered and died on behalf of the undeserving -- which is every one of us.

"That's" extravagant.

And in the waiting, we find even more meaning.

***

Sibella Giorello writes the Raleigh Harmon mystery series which won the Christy Award with its first book "The Stones Cry Out." She lives in Washington state with her husband and children, and often wishes there were 36 hours in a day.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

A Digital Nativity

2011-12-14T17:17:00.001-06:00

Discovered through a friend, good enough to share! Enjoy!

Like I tried to tell the second graders a couple of weeks ago - God used messengers to spread the good news oh so long ago, just imagine what could be done today, with Facebook, Google, Wikipedia, Amazon, YouTube and more!

12 Pearls of Christmas: Day 1

2011-12-14T09:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!

Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more!) Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.

AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

A Christmas of Kindness
By Suzanne Woods Fisher

"You can give without loving, but you can¹t love without giving." Amish proverb

I do it every year.

I plan for a simpler, less stressful Christmas season and, every year, by Christmas Eve I'm exhausted! After our delicious and very-time-consuming-to-make traditional Swedish meal to honor my husband¹s relatives (think: Vikings), it's time to head to church.

I'm embarrassed to admit it, but the last few Christmas Eve's, I have sent my husband and kids head off without me. The pull to spend an hour of quiet in the house feels as strong as a magnet.

It's odd. My children are young adults now. Wouldn't you think that Christmas would be simpler? Instead, it's just the opposite. Jugging schedules to share the grandbaby with the in-laws, trying to include our elderly parents at the best time of day for them, dancing carefully around recently divorced family members whose children are impacted by the shards of broken relationships.

The thing is: you can simplify your to-do list, but you can't really simplify people. We are just a complicated bunch.

Here's where I borrow a lesson about simplicity from the Amish. It's easy to get distracted with the buggies and the bonnets and the beards, but there's so much more to learn from these gentle people if you're willing to look a little deeper.

Yes, they live with less "stuff" and that does make for a simpler, less cluttered life. But it's the reason behind it that is so compelling to me: they seek to create margin in their life. Not just empty space - but space that is available to nourish family, community, and faith. Their Christmas is far less elaborate than yours or mine, but what they do fill it with is - oh so right.

Christmas comes quietly on an Amish farmhouse. There is no outward sign of the holiday as we know it: no bright decorations, no big tree in the living room corner. A few modest gifts are waiting for children at their breakfast place settings, covered by a dishtowel. Waiting first for Dad to read the story of Christ's birth from the book of Luke. Waiting until after a special breakfast has been enjoyed. Waiting until Mom and Dad give the signal that the time has come for gifts.

Later, if Christmas doesn't fall on a Sunday, extended family and friends will gather for another big meal. If time and weather permits, the late afternoon will be filled with ice skating or sledding. And more food! Always, always an abundance of good food. Faith, family, and community. That is the focus of an Amish Christmas.

And it's also how the story begins for A Lancaster County Christmas, as a young family prepares for Christmas. A winter storm blows a non-Amish couple, Jaime and C.J. Fitzpatrick, off-course and into the Riehl farmhouse.

An unlikely and tentative friendship develops, until the one thing Mattie and Sol hold most dear disappears and then. Ah, but you¹ll just have to read the story to find out what happens next. Without giving anything away, I will say that I want to create a Mattie-inspired margin this Christmas season. Mattie knew inconveniences and interruptions that come in the form of people (big ones and little ones!) are ordained by God. And blessed by God.

Creating margin probably means that I won't get Christmas cards out until the end of January, and my house won't be uber-decorated. After all, something has to give.

But it will mean I make time for a leisurely visit with my dad at his Alzheimer's facility. And time to volunteer in the church nursery for a holiday-crowded event. And time to invite a new neighbor over for coffee. Hopefully, it will mean that my energy won't get diverted by a frantic, self-imposed agenda. Only by God's agenda-the essence of true simplicity.

And that includes taking time to worship Christ's coming at the Christmas Eve service. You can hold me accountable! This year, I will be there.

***

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, The Search, and The Keeper, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne is a Christy Award nominee and is the host of an internet radio show called Amish Wisdom and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California. www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today’s Christian authors, designed to help you find a “pearl” of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. – Enjoy!

12 Pearls Of Christmas Begins Tomorrow

2011-12-13T11:54:00.001-06:00

Note from Kaylea: The following is a series of thoughts, from some of today's Christian authors, designed to help you find a "pearl" of faith during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas Season. - Enjoy!

Welcome to the

3rd Annual Pearl Girls™

12 Pearls of Christmas blogging series!

We've gathered several of today's most beloved authors to share their Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom!" Please follow along beginning tomorrow (Wednesday, Dec. 14) through Christmas day as Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Rachel Hauck, Sandy Ralya, Sibella Giorello, Susan May Warren and more, share their heartfelt stories of how God has touched their life during this most wonderful time of the year.

If you'd like to share the 12 Pearls of Christmas with your blog readers too, just email Christen and she'll send you the series.

AND of course there is a giveaway! Beginning tomorrow you and all your friends can enter to win a PEARL NECKLACE and EARRINGS valued at $450! The winner will be announced on New Year's Day! Pearls - a tangible reminder of God's grace to us all.

***
Just a quick note before the series begins on Dec. 14 ...

As I write this, I imagine that we are sitting at my kitchen table and chatting over a cup of coffee while familiar Christmas carols celebrate the Season. My twelve year old Chihuahua, Pongo, barks for a pinch of pound cake while my Shih Tzu, Lilly, patiently sits by the chair and waits for a crumb to fall.

My name is not Martha Stewart, and I will never receive a neighborhood beautification award. Just look at my front stoop. Yes, my never-had-time-to-carve-the-pumpkin-that-now-suffers-from-frostbite slouches next to the front door which is decorated with a Christmas wreath. I plan to roll this large orange ornament to the garbage pile tomorrow. For now, however, I will pretend that my front stoop is a contemplative modern art exhibit capturing the essence of contrast.

Actually, I love the concept of juxtaposition – placing things together that don’t seem to belong together, yet somehow ultimately make sense being paired.

A personal example for me this season is the phrase: “comfort and joy.” Having just completed my manuscript for New Hope Publishers about the aftermath of grief, I fully understand the contrast of those two words. How can comfort bring joy? How can one find joy in loss?

Perhaps, dear reader, you have experienced loss this year – loss of a loved one, loss of friendship, loss of health, loss of financial security, loss of trust, loss of love, or loss of direction.

Even with the best intent, words of encouragement shared by others can somehow seem insufficient to address an inconsolable loss. A spoken word cannot fully restore joy to a broken heart; however the Word can.

And that’s the bottom line message of Christmas! God gave us the most amazing gift: His Son - the Word of God, the Holy Comforter.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but shall have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).

You are not alone this Christmas, dear friend. Juxtaposed to the unexpected grit in life is the gift of God’s grace wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.

This year I purposely placed a pearl in the Nativity scene as a metaphoric reminder. When we place our grit into the hands of the Lord, His grace transforms our pain into a pearl.

“Joy to the world!”

Thank you so very much for sharing the JOY of the Season with us this year.

God Bless, Margaret
@mcsweeny

***

Margaret McSweeney lives with her husband, David and two teenage daughters in the Chicago suburbs. She is the founder and director of Pearl Girls. For more information please visit www.pearlgirls.info. McSweeney is fast at work on several fiction manuscripts. Her book Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace was written to help fund the Pearl Girl Charities. She is also the host of weekly radio show, Kitchen Chat. Connect with Margaret on Facebook or Twitter.

2011 Christmas Card

2011-12-06T23:17:00.001-06:00

Thanks to a friend's gift code (from a House Party) I was able to put together a Christmas card...something I usually don't do.
So 10 friends will get this in person, but I can share it with everyone here!

Stationery card

View the entire collection of cards.

Truth

2011-12-05T21:06:00.001-06:00

What is the truth?

For the last few weeks, this verse has been bouncing around my brain.

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." - Philippians 4:8

I describe it as the "garbage in, garbage out" verse, because it challenges me to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable - and basically put good things into my brain.

One way I do this, is to re-read a list of "truths" that a wise pastor friend gave me when I was in junior high. It was a series of truths he wanted me to remember, when life started throwing curve balls.

I've kept that list in my Bible for years. It's a well-worn hand-written note full of things he observed in my life and character that I try to read, especially when self-doubt or negative self-talk beings to fill my thoughts.

So what truths to do you need to remember today? If you made a list of truths, what would appear on it?

(FYI - This post is kind of inspired by last year's Reverb10 project - which gave people a series of questions each day during December to kind of "wrap up" the year. When the creators of Reverb10 chose not continue the project this month, I came up with my own "reflection" challenge. Each day, for the next month, I'm going to try to write - focusing on a single word as my theme!)

Notice

2011-12-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

Notice: to perceive; become aware of.

It's amazing the things you notice, when you stop and simply watch.

During thanksgiving, I had the opportunity to observe my niece during basketball practice.

Yes, I know, going to a high school basketball practice on a Saturday morning probably doesn't sound fun, but I enjoyed it for one reason - I got to notice things about my niece.

I loved watching the determination on her face as she ran through the drills.

I also liked having a chance to see her in action and interacting with her teammates.

While I'm not a huge sports person, I can appreciate the lessons you can learn by being part of an organized team.

And, well, it was cool to be in the "new, new" gym at my old high school. For the record, the "new" high school is WAY cooler than the building - that no longer exists - that used to house my high school classes.

Going to this practice was a chance for me to sit back and really take note of a few things that were important to my niece, and experience a piece of her life..

I don't often stop and "notice" things. A lot of times I kind of "move" in "full speed ahead" mode - just getting things done.

Sometimes, I need to remember to stop and notice the small things taking place around me, because in reality, the little things can bring great joy.

So what do you need to notice today?

(FYI - This post is kind of inspired by last year's Reverb10 project - which gave people a series of questions each day during December to kind of "wrap up" the year. When the creators of Reverb10 chose not continue the project this month, I came up with my own "reflection" challenge. Each day, for the next month, I'm going to try to write - focusing on a single word as my theme!)

Listen

2011-12-02T21:24:00.001-06:00

What does it mean to truly listen to God?

For the last few days, I've been pondering this questions and what it means for my life.

If I'm honest, it's been something that I've been pondering for longer - especially when you look at a few of the books I've picked up for pleasure in the last few weeks.

In Passion To Action, I read about how Jay and Beth Loecken listened to God, sold their possessions and began to travel throughout the US in an RV, working in soup kitchens, community projects and other mission projects.

Their story tells how following God led them to unexpected and amazing opportunities - and even led to a whole new ministry, which you can read about here: http://passiontoaction.org.

Another book, Another Man's War: The True Story of One Man's Battle to Save Children in the Sudan, I read how Sam Childers turned his life around - in children's ministry terms, he made "lots of bad choices," - then ended up following God's call on his life and ended up traveling to the Sudan to establish an orphanage to help the children in a war-torn country.

His story has been recounted in a new movie released this fall, Machine Gun Preacher, staring Gerard Butler. You can read more about him here: http://www.machinegunpreacher.org.

I know there's some controversy - OK, a lot - surrounding Childers and his claims. You can read an extensive article on the Christianity Today website here. Regardless of the controversy I'm glad I read the book, because it opened my eyes to the things going on in the Sudan involving children.

Both of these stories have a common thread - the families involved discovered their passion for life and service by listening to God and discovering his plan for their lives..

I'm still trying to discover God's plan for my life.

If I had followed my original plan, from college, I would be working in Washington, DC as a political journalist. Instead I find myself serving in a full-time children's ministry. Which, let's be honest, is probably a better choice. It's just one example of how listening to God changed my life.

Right now, listening to God is less about determining a "career" path, and more about "self care." God seems to be telling me that it's time to make a few changes in my life and truly take a "Sabbath" or day of rest each week - something I'm having to learn the hard way.

(Let's just say God is speaking to me through friends who buy me a book to read on the subject - and then follow up to see if I actually read it).

Listening isn't easy, and honestly, I'm struggling with the "message" right now. But I know, when I listen to God and follow his path, things seem to go easier then when I try to do it on my own. (Something about surrendering and such - but that's another post.)

So how are you listening to 'God? What are you learning?

(FYI - This post is kind of inspired by last year's Reverb10 project - which gave people a series of questions each day during December to kind of "wrap up" the year. When the creators of Reverb10 chose not continue the project this month, I came up with my own "reflection" challenge. Each day, for the next month, I'm going to try to write - focusing on a single word as my theme!)

Blog Tour: Mirror of N'de (Review)

2011-12-02T20:57:00.001-06:00

Looking for something to fill your reading "void" now what you've graduated with Harry Potter, or completed the Hunger Games trilogy, you might want to pick up The Mirror of N'de, the freshman release by L.K. Malone.

The book, set in the mythical city of N'de, focus on the lives of 13-year-old Hadlay and her people, the Ramash. Like the Hunger Games series, the book finds a group of people (The Ramash) who are oppressed by the ruling party and the government (the Oresed). It also focuses on a group of young men and women (think tributes) who are called upon to serve the rulers.

The Mirror of N'de focuses on Hadley's life and how she experiences a series of dreams which we later learn are destined to help her save her people.

I think readers will empathize with Hadley's desire to save her people and understand the choices she makes in order to find the Savior - and ultimate salvation - for those in her life. Her life almost has a "Queen Esther" feel to it. As if it was her destiny to help chart the future of her family.

On the scale of one to five, with five being the highest, I give this book a solid four. While it took a bit to get into the story, once the author "hooked" me, I stayed till the end to see what happened. Through vivid word pictures, L.K. Malone has created a story that while fiction, shows a picture of humanity that truly happens when someone in power oppresses another segment of the population.

I think people who like the fantasy genre may find this book interesting. I enjoyed reading it and delving into the world created by the author. With the cliffhanger ending, I wouldn't be surprised to see a second book be developed to continue Hadley's story.

About The Mirror of N'de:
From The Publisher
In the mythical city of N’de lives thirteen-year-old Hadlay and her people, the Ramash. Scorned and abused by the unloving and absent Emperor, the Ramash are poor people, placed second to the ruling class of the Oresed. Young but bold, Hadlay rages against the injustice in her city. When she is chosen for the honor of serving the Prince in the Tower, she hopes to find a way to right the wrong... but soon discovers that things are worse than she believed.

While Hadlay works to better her people’s condition, she struggles to abide with the abusive Oresed and understand the meaning of her dreams in which a fantastical white horse appears to her and speaks in riddles. When Hadlay stumbles into one of the Tower’s secret rooms, she discovers a hidden mirror that doesn’t just show her reflection, but reveals much more: the horse’s name is Sirach and he has a plan to save the children of N’de, if only Hadlay can bring them to the mirror. Hiding her knowledge of Sirach from the Prince, Hadlay sets out to do Sirach’s bidding. But when Sirach’s presence is revealed, Hadley’s life is in danger and the only way to save her is for Sirach to give up his own.

Crafting powerful narrative and creative characters, author L. K. Malone spins a compelling tale that combines exciting entertainment and the Christian story. In The Mirror of N’de, readers will empathize with the desires of an oppressed people, will anger at the affliction of a cruel adversary, and ultimately rejoice with the revelation of a Savior.

More About The Author
L. K. Malone is an insatiable reader who devours nearly a book a day when she isn’t writing. Favorite genres include political thrillers, historical fiction, romance, and fantasy. Some of her favorite reads include the Hunger Games series and the Harry Potter books, which inspired her to try her hand at fantasy with a Judeo-Christian twist.

Malone is a Colorado native with a large extended family, which includes two lovely young women who graciously let her mentor them through the Denver Kids program, and a handsome menagerie of pets.

More About The Book

Direct link on YouTube: http://youtu.be/T_iwqPNGZE8
Buy the book on Amazon
Follow the book tour here.

It's A Giveaway!

To enter all you have to do is send a tweet (using @litfuse) about The Mirror of N'de or share about it on Facebook!

If you tweet we'll capture your entry when you use @litfuse. If you share it on Facebook or your blog, just email us and let us know (ckrumm@litfusegroup.com). Easy.

Not sure what to tweet/post? Here's an idea:

TWEET THIS: New YA fantasy - The Mirror of N'de - compelling narrative and creative characters! @litfuse RT for $50 to @amazon http://ow.ly/7AWGT

FACEBOOK THIS: Don’t miss this debut YA fantasy story: Crafting powerful narrative and creative characters, author L. K. Malone spins a compelling tale that combines exciting entertainment and the Christian story. In The Mirror of N’de, readers will empathize with the desires of an oppressed people, will anger at the affliction of a cruel adversary, and ultimately rejoice with the revelation of a Savior. Share this for a chance at $50 to Amazon.com http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13440685

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

It's A Giveaway: My Favorite Bible

2011-12-02T20:42:00.000-06:00

Looking for a Bible to give to your young readers? Here's a chance to win a new Bible storybook, My Favorite Bible, by Rondi DeBoer and Christine Tangvald.

The Bible features the God's Word Translation, with key verses and parent resources called "Family Talk" and "Family Fun" designed to assist parents/guardians in discussing the stories with children.

You can win a copy of this resource - by simply leaving a comment on this blog by Wednesday, Dec. 14. (You can get a second entry by leaving a comment on the St. James Kidz blog) I'll pick a winner (using Random.org) on Thursday, Dec. 15. So what are you waiting for? Post away for your chance to win! Note: please leave your email in your entry, I'll contact you if you win - to get your address. The publisher will mail you the Bible directly!

Want to see inside this Bible? Visit Amazon for more details.

From The Publishers
With the vibrant illustrations and engaging text in this Bible storybook, you can enjoy sharing the best-loved stories of the Bible with the children in your life and encourage a life-long love for the Word of God. My Favorite Bible is a book of exciting Bible stories and activity pages that guide children through the foundational truths of Scripture.

Each story is fully illustrated and includes a simple narrative full of things kids love: repetition, rhythm, and energy, along with a key biblical theme, a key Bible verse, and discussion questions to help adults introduce children to the Bible.

The colorful illustrations will capture the imaginations of children ages 4–8, and the stories will help adults to pass along the most important truth in life—the Gospel. Families will cherish this time as they read, listen, learn, and love, growing closer to one another even as they grow closer to God.

About The Authors
Rondi DeBoer sold her first series at age fifteen and now has more than 430,000 copies of her books in print. After graduating from WSU in Elementary Education and studying at Multnomah Biblical Seminary, she went on to become a classical Christian teacher. Now she spends her time homeschooling her three daughters and eagerly awaits the arrival of a fourth daughter from China. She and her husband, Brian, live in Washington with their family.

Christine Tangvald has been writing for children for more than 25 years, with nearly 100 titles to her name and almost 3.5 million books in print. After earning her Elementary Education degree, she worked with children for more than 20 years. Her passion is to personalize God and make him real and alive to small children. She lives in Washington with her husband Roald.

Note:As a freelance journalist and children's pastor, I was provided with this giveaway opportunity by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This post simply allows me to giveaway a copy of the book. I did not receive anything for the post - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Words....

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-06:00

Words....

Since 2007 I've picked one word - yes, I'm wordy so I usually end up with two words every year - that help define who I am and the journey I'm on, during that particular time period. The words from the past include

2007 - Wonder & Seek

2008 - Simplicity & Joy

2009 - Dream & Hope

2010 - Half-Full & See

2011 - New & Renew

Sometimes a word "jumps" out at me, like "See" did, after reading Mary Beth Chapman's memoir Choosing To See. Others come through gentle (ok, sometimes not so gentle) nudges from God.

Each of the words, in their own way, have helped me focus on a specific lesson that I needed to learn.

It's funny though, some of the words - from past years - continue to pop up and remind me that just because they are an "old" word, doesn't mean they can't play a role in my life.

I've already begun to ponder what word will help me start 2012. I haven't made a final decision - oh I've tossed around a few words - but honestly, one hasn't "grabbed" me quite yet and said "start the journey with me."

So, if I asked you what word you might pick to describe your life right now, what might it be?

I posed that question to friends on Facebook, and the responses so far includes: "blessed," "thankful" and "magical."

It's kinda fun to watch the words come in and see who picks what - because they all kind of "speak" about who the person in, and things that have been going on in their lives.

One word can say a lot.

So, thanks to a couple of sources - and my old trusty thesaurus - I've come up with a list of words (pictured above as a wordle, and below as a random list.)

As a challenge to myself (and because Reverb11 isn't happening this year), I'm going to spend the next month looking at a few words - and use them to help "wrap up" 2011. I also hope it challenges my brain and helps me discover my word for 2012.

So, beginning tomorrow, I'll start "listening" to what these words have to say.

Who knows what lessons I might learn. I'm hoping it helps "renew" my spirit and help me finish 2011 with a bang!

There were 460 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

Listen
Notice
True
Less
Unleashed
Keep
Abundance
Improve
Satisfy
Journey
Capable
Wisdom
Little
Perceive
Acceptance
Enjoy
Choice
No
Step
Observe
Marathon
Stewardship
Endure
Enrich
Moderation
Joy
Evanescence
Determined
Complete
Choices
Nurture
Shine
Best
Embrace
Rhythm
Gratitude
Happiness
Share
Savor
Tenacity
Fun
Completion
Love
Rescue
Bold
Routine
Refine
Promise
Manifest
Prayer
Choose
Imagine
Sustain
Possibilities
Preservation
Produce
New
Integrate
Inspire
Technology
Nest
Creativity
Breathe
Altered
Athlete
Temple
Tribe
Soar
Whole
Challenge
Go
Decide
Delight
Preserve
Exemplify
More
Motivate
Seriously
Memory
Revive
Clean
Victory
Restore
Soul
Synergy
Risk
Declutter
Believe
From
Recharge
Goodness
Gift
Strive
Invigorate
Brave
Incarnational
Unburden
Devotion
Manage
Accomplish
Radical
Discovery
One
Intentional
Rebuild
Movement
Wholehearted
Grow
Babysteps
Push
Try
Action
Verb
Serve
Faith
Steady
Flourish
Capture
Discipline
Openness
Forgive
Moxie
Full
Reunion
Prosperity
Green
Cliffjumper
Return
Here
Self-Control
Awake
Think
Charity
Remade
Art
Servant
If
Stillness
Allow
Experience
Humble
Esteem
Raise
Dream
Fly
Faithful
Mountain
Execute
Finish
Vibrant
Discover
Surrender
Clear
Fundamental
Serendipity
Nudge
Journal
Energy
Thrifty
Crescendo
Focus
Passion
Self-evolution
Freedom
Stabilize
Develop
Thankful
Encourage
Trust
See
Involved
Make
Write
Patience
Active
Light
Seek
Should
Home
Moment
Good
Calm
Present
Motivation
Cherish
Comfort
Fit
Purposeful
Abide
Alive
Open
Act
Rejoice
invincible
Plan
Positive
Hope
Perspective
Roots
Organization
Eucharisteo
Rejuvenate
Sensitive
Educate
Strength
Liberating
Verve
Funny
Badassery
Why
Magic
Reform
Transform
Family
Harmony
Wait
Balance
Quench
Mindfulness
Excel
Give
Travel
Prepare
Connection
Healthy
Reflection
Tranquil
Realize
Resolve
Walk
Gone
Place
Emerge
Stretch
Celebrate
My
Consistency
Belonging
Express
Mindful
Find
Consistent
Loving
Authenticity
Own
Sacrament
Basic
Order
Two
Responsibility
Untethered
Attitude
Accept
Learn
Lighten
Direction
Warrior
Pure
Pause
Re
Practice
Apply
Live
Established
Courageous
Frugal
Care
Fearless
Recover
Heal
Living
Groovy
Opportunity
Fresh
Take
Beloved
Health
Community
Friendship
Release
Real
Bounce
Reduce
Cleanse
Well
Forward
Determination
Strong
Proactive
Recommit
Merry
Courage
Remember
Diligence
Wonder
Daily
Appreciate
Detail
Achieve
Engage
Feast
Lose
Normal
Commit
Become
Firework
Simplify
Social
Zen
Can
Organize
Faithfulness
Miracle
Slow
Explore
Plant
Inspiration
Revolution
Luck
Anyway
Time
Story
Conquer
Relish
Relationship
Power
Persistent
Still
Change
Peace
Prioritize
Space
Intention
Fruition
Happy
Soak In
Beauty
Pursue
Blessing
Me
Value
Dabble
Kind
Vision
Blessed
Transformation
Commitment
Prosperous
Do
Frolic
Comfortable
Purpose
Build
Grace
Chef
Invest
Content
Reflect
Evolve
Spontaneity
Bliss
Ready
Better
Pleasure
Teach
Sail
Heart
Achievement
Vitality
Stop
Excitement
Confidence
Compassion
Thrive
Devote
Strengthen
Sweet
Magical
Persevere
Illuminate
Refresh
Laugh
Participate
Enough
Breath
Create
Perceptive
Rediscover
Initiate
Perfect
Aware
Bloom
Favorites
Nourish
Renaissance
Growth
Succeed
Together
Momentum
Renew
Lead
Willingness
Today
Automatic
Edit
Free
Competent
Extra
Receive
Be
Yes
Solace
Welcome
Start
Relax
Simplicity
Treasure
Dance
Begin
Deliberate
Chance
Pray
Now
Leap
Float
Touch
Ignite
Dare
Reconnect
Colorful
Smile
Shift
Follow
Control
Relinquish
Simple
Serenity
Clarity
Connect
Elegance
Play
Rest
Half-Full
Honesty
Prosper
Sparkle
Flow
Pace
Song
Couture
Progress
Wellness
Contentment
Reach
Uplift
Let Go
De-stress
Move
Clear
Cultivate

Timestamp: 2011-12-01 03:50:08 UTC

(FYI - This post - and subsequent word challenge - is kind of inspired by last year's Reverb10 project - which gave people a series of questions each day during December to kind of "wrap up" the year. When the creators of Reverb10 chose not continue the project this month, I came up with my own idea, mixing my experience with "one little word" and Reverb10. Each day, for the next month, I'm going to try to write - focusing on a single word as my theme!)

Christmas Reading Plans

2011-11-30T20:18:00.001-06:00

Looking for something to add to your Advent celebration? You might want to try refocusing on the true meaning of Christmas with one of YouVersion’s special Advent Reading Plans. You still have time to complete one of these topical or devotional plans between now and Christmas:

Countdown to Christmas 29 days
A fun Advent activity calendar to teach your whole family the significance of Christmas
Christmas Begins with Christ 28 days
Devotional focusing on the joy, peace, and hope surrounding Jesus’ birth
Rediscovering the Christmas Season 25 days
Scriptures and reflections that will help you center each day on Christ
Carols: A Christmas Devotional 25 days
Devotional revealing the biblical roots of classical Christmas songs
The Christmas Story 5 days
Biblical prophetic context and historical Gospel accounts of the Savior’s birth

Of course, YouVersion.com and the Bible App now have other Reading Plans—more than 200, in fact, including many in different languages.

Blog Tour: Remembering You (Review)

2011-11-26T20:47:00.001-06:00

When Remembering You arrived in the mail, I was ready to read something different - I was not disappointed.

This book, tells the tale of a young journalist who travels to Europe with her grandfather, a World War II vet, on what will probably be his last journey to a large piece of his young adult journey.

Remembering You is a mufti-layered story. Not only does it follow Ava's journey to find out more about herself - as a person, journalist and granddaughter, but also Jack's journey to put away the ghosts of the past.

This book was powerful. It put a new face on WWII and the living history that exists because of the brave men and women who took part in that effort.

It also helps explore the power behind family relationships that span the generations. During this trip, Jack and Ava not only find out information about themselves, but also discover new things within their relationship.

While this book does have a "romantic" twist - when Ava rediscovers a relationship Dennis, the grandson of her grandfather's best friend, the romantic nature is just one of the layers of the tale.

On a scale of one to five, with five being the highest - I give this book a solid four. It kept my interest and it gave me some "meat" to think about. It was also interesting, at how this book "opened" my eyes to a variety of WWII stories - which have crossed my path in the last month.While a novel, this book might also challenge you to sit down and talk to a family member to capture their role in history.

The Book's Back Story!
By Tricia Goyer
In the last ten years since I started interviewing veterans for my WWII novels, most have passed away. Some of them—realizing their days on earth were coming to an end—returned to Europe one last time with their family members to walk along paths they've never forgotten. Those trips inspired my most recent novel, Remembering You.

One of the most amazing experiences was when I received an email from a woman named Hana. She'd heard of my book and knew I'd interviewed some of the veterans. She asked if I'd interviewed any medics. Then she told me an amazing story. Hana was born on a cart just outside of Mauthausen. Her mother had survived being a prisoner of another camp and was transported to Mauthausen at the end of the war.

LeRoy "Pete" Petersohn

Hana was just three weeks old when the Americans arrived, and she was very ill. Because of the filthy conditions she got a skin infection and sores covered her body. No one expected her to live. Yet one of the medics saw the small baby and knew he had to do something. Even though it took most of the day, he lanced and cleaned all Hana's sores, saving her life. Over the years she'd wanted to find the medic, but didn't know where to start.

I was amazed by Hana's story and told her I knew one medic—maybe he remembered who that man was. I gave Hana the contact information and I soon heard the good news. My friend LeRoy “Pete” Petersohn was the medic who'd saved her life! The two were soon reunited! After all these years Hana was able to look into the eyes of the man who saved her and thanked him. After all these years Pete was able to meet the woman he saved. “Baby!” he called out when he met her.

LeRoy "Pete" Petersohn & Hana, reunited!

Remembering You is a work of fiction, but the experiences of the men are true. The experiences of the main character, Ava, are also true-to-life. I was busy with life when God pointed me to an amazing story, and to even more amazing men. I'm so thankful I took time to listen and care. I'm so thankful I allowed these men to share what … and who … they remembered most.

About the book:
From The Publisher
35-year-old Ava Andrews' dream job is interrupted by an unusual request--fulfill her 84-year-old grandfather's last wish by joining him on a battle site tour of Europe. Ava is sure her boss will refuse her request.

But, instead, he gives her a directive of his own--to videotape the tour and send it back as mini-segments for the show she produces.

As if juggling these two things isn't hard enough, Ava is soon surprised again ... twice. First, Ava and Grandpa Jack arrive in Europe, only to discover the tour is cancelled. Unwilling to let down her grandfather or her boss, Ava and Grandpa Jack head out on their own.

Then, while they're on their way, the pair soon meet up with Paul, her grandpa's best friend, and
his grandson Dennis. The same Dennis who just happens to be Ava's first love.

Before she knows it, Ava and Dennis are swept down memory lane as they visit the sites that are discussed in the history books. And even though Ava's videotaping old soldiers, she can see their youth, their hopes and fears, and their pride in their eyes. Soon Ava learns the trip isn't just for them ... it's for her too--especially for her heart.

About The Author
Tricia Goyer is the author of thirty books including Songbird Under a German Moon, The Swiss Courier, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough.

She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Goyer's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005.

In addition to her novels, Goyer writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like MomSense and Thriving Family. Goyer is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions.

On her weekly radio show, Living Inspired, she shares stories of inspiration and encouragement. Goyer and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife.

For more about Goyer and her other books visit www.triciagoyer.com

Online Resources
Read more about this book - and an online excerpt here!
Buy Remembering You online
Follow the blog tour here!

Past Reviews of Goyer's Work!
Tricia Goyer
Songbird Under a German Moon (Review)
All Things Hidden (Review)
Sunflower Serenade (Review)
Blue Like Play Dough (Review)
Beside Still Waters (Review)
Along Wooded Paths (Review)

Tricia Goyer and Kristen Jane Anderson
Life, In Spite of Me (Review & Interview with Tricia Goyer)

Tricia Goyer and Ocienna Fleiss
Love Finds You In Lonesome Prairie (Review & Interview)
Love Finds You In Victory Heights (Review & Interview)

Tricia Goyer & Robin Gunn
Praying for Your Future Husband (Interview)

Tricia Goyer & Mike Yorkey
The Swiss Courier - (Review & Interview)

It's A Contest!
Win a Kindle Touch for YOU and a Friend from Tricia Goyer!
Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her novel, Remembering You, with a KINDLE Touch Giveaway for you ... and for the friend of your choice. Then on 11/29 she'll be wrapping up the release of Remembering You with a Book Chat Party!

During the first half of the party Goyer will be chatting, sharing a sneak peek of her next book, and giving away a ton of great stuff. Then she'll head over to her website for a Live Chat! Readers will be able to chat with her via video or text.

Don't miss your chance to win a Kindle Touch for yourself ... and to "remember" a friend this holiday with a Kindle Touch for them!

Read what the reviewers are saying here.

One grand prize winner will receive:

A Brand New Kindle Touch and a Kindle Touch for a Friend (winner's choice!)
A copy of Remembering You by Tricia Goyer for each

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on November 29th. Winner will be announced at Remembering You Facebook Party on 11/29. Goyer will host an author chat (on Facebook and Live from her website) and giving away copies of her other WWII books and gift certificates to Starbucks and Amazon.com. So grab your copy of Remembering You and join Goyer on the evening of the 29th for an author chat, a trivia contest (How much do you know about WWII?) and lots of giveaways.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: Remembering Christmas (Review)

2011-11-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

It's been said that the holidays can be the best of times for many, yet be the worst of times for some - facing pain, loss and more.

In Remembering Christmas, Dan Walsh explores how life changed for a family as the result of one Christmas.

Through flashbacks (from present time to the 80s), Walsh tells a tale that reminds people about the value and importance of family relationships.

Remembering Christmas is not a traditional "Christmas" tale, yet is is a delightful story that is full of Christmas spirit and love.

If you are looking for a simple, yet warm story to read, then check out Remembering Christmas. The story will help brighten your spirits and put you in a jolly mood.

More About The Book
From The Publisher
Can one Christmas change a life forever?

Rick Denton lives his life on his terms. He works hard, plays hard, and answers to no one. So when his mother calls begging him to come home after his stepfather has an aneurysm, Rick is more than a little reluctant. What was supposed to be just a couple days helping out at the family bookstore turns into weeks of cashing out old ladies and dealing with the homeless guy who keeps hanging around the store. The one bright spot is the lovely and intriguing young woman who works at his side each day.

As Christmas nears, Rick's old life beckons, the hurts from his past loom large, and the decisions he makes will determine more than just where he spends Christmas Eve.

More About The Author
Dan Walsh is the award-winning author of The Unfinished Gift, The Homecoming, The Deepest Waters, and Remembering Christmas.

A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Walsh served as a pastor for 25 years. He lives with his family in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
Find it at Barnes & Noble
Read an excerpt online

Additional reviews of Walsh's Books
The Unfinished Gift (Review & Interview)
The Homecoming (Review & Interview)
The Deepest Waters (Review)

About Revell, The Publisher
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet. For more information, visit www.RevellBooks.com.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: The Christmas Shoppe (Review)

2011-11-19T21:02:00.001-06:00

It's beginning to look a lot like .... Christmas! If reading Christmas novellas, then Melody Carson's newest offering, The Christmas Shoppe, will fill you heart with the holiday spirit.

Set in the fictional town of Parrish Springs, The Christmas Shoppe tells the story of a town full of people who are suffering from a "lack" of Christmas spirit.

When a stranger - Matilda Honeycutt - moves in to open her Christmas Shoppe, life changes for the good for the people of Parrish Springs.

Through her small, charming book, Carson explores a different tale for Christmas. A story that encourages people to confront the pain of the past, in order to move into the joy of the future.

On a scale of one to five, this book is a solid and cheery three. It's a tale that has the quality of a warm, cozy cup of hot tea - just perfect for an evening read in front of a roaring fireplace.

More About The Book
From The Publisher
The small town of Parrish Springs is not quite ready for Matilda Honeycutt.

A strange older woman with scraggly gray hair and jewelry that jangles as she walks, Matilda is certainly not the most likely person to buy the old Barton Building on the town's quaint main street. When it becomes apparent that her new shop doesn't fit the expectations of Parrish Springs residents, a brouhaha erupts. After all, Christmas is approaching, and the last thing the town needs is a junky shop run by someone who looks and acts like a gypsy. But as townsfolk venture into the strange store, they discover that old memories can bring new life and healing.

More About The Author
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million.

She is the author of several Christmas books from Revell, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, and Christmas at Harrington's, which is being considered for a TV movie.

She is also the author of many teen books, including Just Another Girl, Anything but Normal, Double Take, The Jerk Magnet, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series. Carson was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books in 2010 and 2011. She and her husband live in central Oregon.

For more information about Carson visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
Find it at Barnes & Noble
Read an excerpt online

Additional reviews of Carson's Books
Anything But Normal (Review)
Christmas At Harrington's (Review)
The Christmas Dog (Review & Interview)
Always, A Teen Devo (Review)
Double Take (Review)
Never Been Kissed (Review)

About Revell, The Publisher
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet. For more information, visit www.RevellBooks.com.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: The House of Hope (Review)

2011-11-17T23:24:00.001-06:00

What would you do if you had wealth, a substantial job, a comfortable life as an ex-pat working in China and well, everything you could want in life?

What would you do if the still, quiet voice of God whispered in your heart that there was something more for you to do?

Could you walk away from the security of your job to take care of the "least of these" in a foreign country?

For Robin and Joyce Hill, the answer is a resounding yes.

Together, along with their children, the Hills have worked to bring one simple word to orphaned children in China - hope.

Along the way, their journey has led them to cross paths with many people - including Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman - and help hundreds of children.

In The House of Hope, journalist Elisabeth Gifford, tells their tale, and helps people understand just what it took for the Hills to accept the calling that God has placed upon their lives.

This book, written at times simply in a mater-of-fact style, takes the readers through a straight forward account of how the Hills responded to God, built and lost their first dream, and then, gained more than they could imagine.

Along the way, readers are invited to read the stories of several children who not only found the medical help they needed through the Hills' care, but also found their forever homes through adoption.

Because I read Mary Beth Chapman's memoir, I was familiar with how Maria's Big House of Love was established. What I didn't know, is role the Hills' had in its formation. Gifford's book brought new life - and understanding - into that story and more.

Jesus challenges Christians to take care of the "least" of these - specifically widows and orphans. Joyce and Robin Hill took up that challenge, and because of their hard work and dedication, countless children have been treated with love, respect and more.

On a scale of one to five, this book is a six. I simply couldn't put it down.

If you have a heart for children, are interested in adoption issues, or just simply want to see how people are doing amazing things in another country, then pick up The House of Hope. It just might challenge you to do something in your own backyard.

More About The Book
From the Publisher:
One couple’s powerful ministry to some of China’s most vulnerable children
Robin and Joyce Hill lived in a gated community in Beijing. Their family’s life was marked by luxury and the security of Robin's job as an engineer. Then one day, as members of their church, they had a chance to tour a state-run orphanage. Haunted by the needs of the children they saw there, for the next four years they tried to help the institute in meaningful ways.

In 1998 the Hills planned to leave China, but instead felt a sudden call from God on their lives. They left their gated community--reserved for only non-Chinese residents--moved their family into a small apartment miles outside of Beijing and immediately began to take in foster children.

They took in any child, but especially those that needed extra care—terminally ill children that couldn't receive care elsewhere, and those that needed complicated and expensive surgeries that the Hills soon began to coordinate and sometimes pay for out of their own savings.

What began as Hope Foster Home is now New Hope Foundation. As they continue their work, the Hills enjoy support from major corporations and high-profile philanthropists as well as the trust of the Chinese authorities. The Hills' story is an inspiring example of God's care and provision for those whom society does not value. Learn more about Hope Foster Homes here: http://www.hopefosterhome.com.

"I strongly support Robin and Joyce Hill's New Hope Foundation which is saving so many orphan lives in China. Read this amazing story of God's grace and accept the challenge to make a difference!"
--Steven Curtis Chapman

"I had the privilege of going to China and witnessing the work that God is doing through Robin and Joyce Hill. They are wonderful servants of God who lovingly care for the 'least of these.' I hope that many will read this book and consider their example."
--Francis Chan, author of Crazy Love

Take Note:

100% of the proceeds of the book go to support the work of
Hope Foster Homes (please visit their site to learn more)
- buy a book for yourself and everyone you know.
This book is a gift that gives a gift.

More About The Author

Elisabeth Gifford is a journalist who has written for the London Times and the Independent Newspapers.

She lives in Kingston, England, and teaches children with dyslexia.

Robin and Joyce Hill lived in a gated community in Beijing. Their family’s life was marked by luxury and the security of Robin's job as an engineer. Then one day, as members of their church, they had a chance to tour a state-run orphanage. Haunted by the needs of the children they saw there, for the next four years they tried to help the institute in meaningful ways.

Online Resources
Buy the book at Amazon
See What Others Think: Follow The Blog Tour
Learn More About The Hope Foster Homes

It's A Contest/Giveaway!
The publisher is sponsoring a $50 "GET / GIVE" GIVEAWAY: One winner will receive a $50 Amazon.com gift certificate for themselves AND $50 will be given in the winner's name to Hope Foster Home.

To enter all you have to do is send a tweet (using #HFH) about The House of Hope or share about it on Facebook!

If you tweet we'll capture your entry when you use #HFH. If you share it on Facebook or your blog, just email us and let us know (ckrumm@litfusegroup.com). Easy.

Not sure what to tweet/post? Here's an idea:

TWEET THIS: Couple gives all to rescue babies in China! 100% proceeds go to #HopeFosterHome http://ow.ly/7qR3e RT 4 $50 to @amazon & $50 to #HFH

(must use hashtage #HFH to be entered)

FACEBOOK THIS: The House of Hope: One couple abandons a comfortable life to rescue abandoned children. Robin and Joyce Hill have helped over 1300 Chinese orphans with severe medical problems. Purchase a copy for everyone you know - the book is a gift that gives a gift. 100% proceeds to help support the work at Hope Foster Home! Learn more here: http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13438821 Share this for a chance to get a $50 Amazon.com GC and $50 in your name to Hope Foster Home! Details: http://ow.ly/7qR3e.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: Deeply Devoted (Review)

2011-11-09T21:00:00.000-06:00

Catherine has a secret. The baggage she carries as she and her sisters travel "across the pond" to America is as heavy as the luggage she actually brings.

Through a variety of twists and turns, Maggie Brendan brings to life the story of a prairie mail order bride.

Without pulling any punches, she describes a life - a choice that many women made duirng this time period - to marry a man only known to them by mailed letters.

Through several trials, and a lot of effort, Catherine and Peter not only learn how to live together - as a married couple - but also function as a married unit.

They also learn how to deal with the past, so they can move into a new future together. The story highlights how we cannot be weighed down by our past - or let our choices be dictated by secrets.

On a scale of one to five, this book is a solid three. It's a good read - I'm wondering where Brendan will take the series (I assume books two and three will focus on Cahterine's sisters).

More About The Book
From The Publisher
She is staking her future on a man she's never met. Can she learn to love him?

When Catharine Olsen leaves Holland for Wyoming as a mail-order bride, she brings some extra baggage with her: two sisters, her mother's set of Blue Willow china, and a tragic past. As she steps off the train, Peter Andersen is glad to see that she is everything her letters showed her to be. But he is a bit perturbed by her unexpected companions. How will he support them all? And what other secrets might Catharine be keeping from him?

Filled with sweet romance and vivid characters, Deeply Devoted highlights a clash of cultures as a highborn European and a simple wheat farmer learn to love one another and trust God with the past--and the future.

More About The Author
Maggie Brendan is the author of No Place for a Lady, The Jewel of His Heart, and A Love of Her Own. A member of American Christian Writers and the American Fiction Writers Association, Maggie lives in Georgia.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
Find it at Barnes & Noble
Read an excerpt online

Additional reviews of Brendan's books
The Jewel of His Heart (Review)
A Love Of Her Own (Review)

About Revell, The Publisher
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet. For more information, visit www.RevellBooks.com.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: I Am In Here (Review)

2011-11-01T22:37:00.002-05:00

Powerful is one word you can use to describe the book "I Am In Here," by Elizabeth M. Bonker and Virginia G. Breen.

The story - told through the Elizabeth's poetry and Virginia's memories, highlight the strength and determination of both mother and daughter.

Elizabeth's words, told through her poetry and brief descriptions of the works, truly highlight her determination to break through the chains of silence brought on by autism.

Through her memories and in telling Elizabeth's story, Virginia captures what a parent will do to help her child succeed - even if the world thinks differently.

In Hollywood, this book would end with Elizabeth being able to speak verbally. While that's not the case here, what is the case is that both Elizabeth and her mother continue to work for the day that she can become new.

This story is filled with hope, faith and more. It's definitely a book I plan to pass along to a few parents in my ministry who are also part of the journey known as autism.

More About The Book
From The Publisher

I sometimes fear

That people cannot understand

That I hear.

And I know

That they don't believe I go

To every extreme

To try to express

My need to talk.

If only they could walk

In my shoes

They would share my news:
I am in here.

And trying to speak every day

In some kind of way.

Though she cannot speak, Elizabeth Bonker writes poetry that shines a light on the hidden inner world of autism and the world around us. I Am in Here is the spiritual journey of a mother and daughter who refuse to give up hope, who celebrate their victories, and who keep moving forward despite the obstacles.

Elizabeth's poetry and her mother's stirring storytelling combine in this inspirational book to proclaim that there is always a reason to take the next step--with hope.

More About The Authors

Elizabeth M. Bonker is a thirteen-year-old young lady with autism who cannot yet speak, but who writes deeply revealing poetry, which was featured on PBS's Religion & Ethics Newsweekly. She excels in mainstream public school with an educational aide.

Virginia G. Breen is the mother of three beautiful children, two of whom are profoundly affected by autism. Besides working to heal her children, Virginia is a venture capitalist investing in high-tech companies, and she sits on both corporate and nonprofit boards.

Previously she studied computer science at Harvard, business at Columbia, and eastern philosophies in Singapore. She now studies relentlessly at the School of Autism.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
Find it at Barnes & Noble
Read an excerpt online

Note: Ginnie Breen, co-author of I Am in Here is scheduled to appear on “The Today Show” on Wednesday, Nov. 9, to discuss her book. As with all national TV, this is still subject to change due to breaking news.

About Revell, The Publisher
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet. For more information, visit www.RevellBooks.com.

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you and yours have

a safe and "treat" filled Halloween!

(credits - card created using wonderful doodles by Kate Hadfield
& a font by Amanda @ www.kevinandamanda.com)

Blog Tour: The Baker's Wife (Review)

2011-10-28T23:29:00.003-05:00

Their ministry has ended. Life has changed dramatically for the Bofinger family.

Then an unexpected accident - and a lot of twists and turns - cause their life to change once again.

In The Baker's Wife, Erin Healy has taken her skill as a suspense writer, and crafted a novel that delves into the darker side of humanity.

Healy explores what happens when someone makes an allegation against a ministry official - and how that can change a life.

The twist in her story is that the person who made the allegation continues to go after the ministry family, because honestly, he sees them as the "problem" in his life.

This book is a bit gritty. But it's good. You can definitely see the influence of Ted Dekker (a past co-author) in her writing style.

The Baker's Wife will make you think, probably make you cringe a bit at the actions of different characters and well, provide you with a great read.

On the scale of one to five, with five being the highest, this is a good, solid three. If you are into Christian suspense, then Healy has provided you with something deserving to check out.

More About The Book
From The Publisher
To save her husband and son, Audrey Bofinger must rescue her enemy.

The Bofinger family has lost their church ministry in a scandal exposed by Officer Jack Mansfield. Hoping to heal and to restore their reputation, Audrey, Geoff, and their son Ed take over a failing bakery in the small community.

Driving to the bakery one morning, blinded by fog, Audrey hits a motor scooter owned by Jack’s wife, Julie. The mangled scooter is crushed and bloody. But Julie is nowhere to be found. Her disappearance coincides with a sudden illness that nearly cripples Audrey.

Jack believes the Bofingers have hurt Julie to take revenge on him, but the evidence dries up and her trail goes cold. At a breaking point, Jack takes the tiny bakery and its patrons hostage, issuing only one demand: Audrey has six hours to return Julie to him, or lose Geoff and Ed forever.

With only an excruciating and intuitive gift, an ex-con, and Julie’s estranged daughter to help search for clues, Audrey starts the search of her life for a woman who has vanished like the fog.

Read an excerpt here.

More About The Author

Well-known to critics and reviewers, Erin Healy has established herself as an award-winning editor and a best-selling co-author with Ted Dekker.

Healy received wide acclaim for her two debut novels Never Let You Go and The Promises She Keeps. Her work focuses on the psychological and spiritual, driven by high moral stakes. She lives and writes in Colorado with her family.

For more information please visit www.erinhealy.com.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
Find it at Barnes & Noble
Follow the blog tour (see what others think)
Read more about it online

It's A Contest
Let the flour fly! Beginning October 24, Erin's celebrating the release of her latest page turner, The Baker's Wife, with an outstanding KitchenAid baking prize package giveaway that includes a brand new Kitchen Aid Mixer, cook books, and all you need to whip up some fabulous bread or sweets! Then and on November 10th she'll be wrapping up the release of The Baker's Wife with an Author Book Chat Party on Facebook! Don't miss a minute of the fun!

One grand prize winner will receive:

Empire Red 4.5 QT Ultra Power KitchenAid Stand Mixer
Black & White Kitschy Apron
Black Silicone Oven Mitt
Black OXO Rolling Pin
Wilton 9X5 loaf pan
At My Grandmother's Knee Cookbook by Faye Porter
Second Helpings with Johnnie Gabriel Cookbook
The Baker's Wife by Erin Healy

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 9th. Winner will be announced at The Baker's Wife Author Book Chat Facebok Party. Erin will be wrapping up the The Baker's Wife celebration with a book club chat and giving away a bunch of "sweet treats"! So grab your copy of The Baker's Wife (it's okay if you don't have one yet- you might win one!) and join Erin on the evening of November 10th for a book chat, some "baking" trivia and lots of "sweet" giveaways (books, and Amazon, iTunes & Starbucks gift certificates)!

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends. Hope to see you on the 10th!

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: Married Mom, Solo Parent (Review)

2011-10-26T11:03:00.000-05:00

What do you do when you are married, but your parenting seems to be more of a "solo" effort?

In Married Mom, Solo Parent, Carla Anne Coroy helps "pull back" the curtain to show another side of parenting - parenting solo, while your spouse travels (or focuses) on his career.

Whether it's by choice (career building) or by force (today's economic climate), some moms find themselves parenting not as a married team, but rather as a solo parent.

I'll be honest, this book made me think. A lot.

I've talked with moms who are in this situation, but I never knew what to say or do. As a children's pastor, I would see moms go thru a cycle of being "uber" busy while dad was gone, to almost being a recluse while he was home.

Corory gave me a new perspective on how to minster to moms in this situation - to know what questions to ask, and what things NOT to do.

In the book, Corory gives two very painful illustrations of how her church (I can't believe it's still her church) did NOT minister to her family - one involving a home repair ministry and another, a church dinner.

Wow. Wow. Wow. Both situations left me cringing at the injustice and the well, lack of compassion. At the dinner, she attended alone with her four kids in tow, people avoided sitting with her like the plague - and no one helped as she balanced a baby, plates of food and her other kids. Not very welcoming and definitely not the way to show the love of Christ to a mom who just needed some encouragement.

(The only thing worse about attending a church dinner like this, is attending as a single woman....but I digress...)

I'm glad I picked up this book. I'm recommending it to other children's pastors to read - and making it available to moms in the church who need an extra dose of encouragement. While the overall message of this book is designed for "solo" moms, many of Conroy's lessons can and do provide words of wisdom for anyone, married or single.

This, I believe is a much needed resource for moms everywhere.

More About The Book
From The Publisher
For married women who feel like single parents.

Bookstore shelves are full of parenting resources for moms who are newly divorced or widowed. But where do moms turn if they feel like a single parent--but they’re not? Whether he is away on business, deployed in the military, or obsessing over a computer game, dad may not be available for a variety of reasons.

Moms who parent in this situation still need help and don’t necessarily relate to the advice given in divorce recovery or single parenting resources.

Married Mom, Solo Parent is a common-sense, down-to-earth look at the struggles wives and mothers face when their husband is not actively involved in family life. Writing from her own experience as a married single mom, Carla Anne Coroy will help wives and mothers sort through their questions, such as: Can I do this alone? How do I raise kids to honor their father? How do I give my children a healthy perspective of marriage if they never see one in action?

With practical suggestions, anecdotes, and biblical teaching, this book will encourage moms to see their position as a high calling, to find healing for their worries and frustrations, and to tap into God’s strength for help in facing the daily challenge of being a married mom, solo parent.

More About The Author
Carla Anne Coroy runs the Married Single Mom blog at www.carlaanne.com.

She speaks regularly and serves as a staff writer for an online Christian women’s magazine Mentoring Moments for Christian Women.

Carla Anne lives in Canada with her husband and four homeschooled children.

For more information, visit http://www.carlaanne.com/blog/

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
Find it at Barnes & Noble
Follow the blog tour (see what others think)

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: Baby It's Cold Outside (Review)

2011-10-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

It's a bit early to think about Christmas, but you'll probably start hearing Christmas carols in your mind if you pick up Susan May Warren's newest book "Baby, It's Cold Outside."

Set during the Christmas weekend 1949, this book brings together four different characters all with one thing in common - they are struggling with different pieces of their past, all while trapped in a farmhouse by a horrible snow storm - with a young boy in need.

This novel is an "easy read." It flows off the pages like a cup of hot chocolate. It's not heavy, but does pack a punch in that it will make you stop and think about the choices they made - and the outcomes which take place because of those choices.

I enjoyed reading this novel. I liked the concept of the story - a town healing from the war; a young military chaplain realizing he needs to heal, just like the young men he ministered to; a farmer struggling with the disappointments of life, while remaining positive for a future with his beloved; a young woman struggling with her identity after serving overseas in the war; and a mother, grieving over the choices she made and the loss of her son.

The characters rally when needed, to save a young man who takes shelter at the home in the storm.

In all, on a scale of one to five, with five being the highest, I give this book a solid four. Once again, Warren has created a novel that is steeped in history and faith.It will put you in the Christmas spirit.

More About The Book
From The Publisher
Hope finds the hopeless when a storm hits.

It's Christmas weekend 1949, and despite the threat of a storm, the townspeople of Frost are determined to continue their holiday traditions, if only as a means to forget the war that they had all just suffered through. But the suffering hasn't ended for Dottie Morgan who lost her only son in the war. She's preparing to wallow in her isolation for the weekend, when Violet, nearly a spinster at age 29, dares to make a request that will force Dottie to publicly revive the memory of her dead son.

When a storm traps the two women at home with a strange young man who has an unbelievable confession and a neighbor with more to do with Violet's past than she would like, no one can predict how this Christmas will give them all a second chance.

More About The Author
Susan May Warren is an award-winning, best-selling author of over twenty-five novels, many of which have won the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, the ACFW Book of the Year award, the Rita Award, and have been Christy finalists.

After serving as a missionary for eight years in Russia, Susan returned home to a small town on Minnesota’s beautiful Lake Superior shore where she, her four children, and her husband are active in their local church.

Susan's larger than life characters and layered plots have won her acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. A seasoned women’s events and retreats speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Susan makes her home in northern Minnesota, where she is busy cheering on her two sons in football, and her daughter in local theater productions (and desperately missing her college-age son!)

A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at:www.susanmaywarren.com.

Online Resources
Read an excerpt of the story, and find out more about its "backstory."
Buy it at Amazon.com
ind it at Barnes & Noble
Follow the blog tour (see what others think)

Other Reviews of Warren's Books
The Great Christmas Bowl (Review)
PJ Sugar: Nothing But Trouble (Review & Interview)
PJ Sugar: Double Trouble (Review)
PJ Sugar: Licensed For Trouble (Review & Interview
Sons of Thunder (Review)
Nightingale (Review)
My Foolish Heart (Review)
Heiress (Review)

It's A Contest
Baby, It’s Cold Outside – warm up with a Kindle Fire from Susan May Warren
Warm up to Chrismtas early this year with Susan May Warren's Baby, It's Cold Outside! To celebrate the release of her new Christmas book with Summerside Press, she and the publisher are giving away a Kindle Fire and hosting an early Christmas Party on Facebook!

Read what the reviewers are saying here.

One festive winner will receive:

A brand new Kindle Fire
Baby, It's Cold Outside by Susan May Warren

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. Giveaway ends on 10/26!

But, wait there’s more! Join Susan May Warren on 10/27 for merriment and a few early Christmas presents at her Baby, It's Cold Outside Christmas party! Grab your Christmas sweaters, socks and pj’s and join Susan and a few friends for a fireside chat about her recent books (Heiress & Baby, It’s Cold Outside), holiday traditions, favorite Christmas recipes, a trivia contest and more! Invite your friends and don’t miss the fun!

RSVP here and we'll see you on Thursday, Oct. 27 at 5 PM PST / 8 PM EST!

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.

Blog Tour: Zombie Church (Review)

2011-10-21T22:51:00.000-05:00

Tyler Edwards is a young pastor, working to change the church from the inside.

But unlike others, Edwards doesn't talk about tearing down the church to fix it.

Instead, drawing on the images found in Zombie movies, Edwards shows his readers things that probably do need "new life" breathed into them and offers ways we can have healthy, life-filled churches.

I'll be honest, I picked up this book because Edwards lives in my "home area." (I'm a Joplin-metro gal, growing up just outside of town).

As the education editor of JoplinDaily.com (the now non-existent newspaper in Joplin), I covered lots of stories related to OCC - his college, and various things happening in churches throughout Joplin.

So it was intriguing to find a book written by a young, rising pastor - part of the "younger generation."

I found a well written book (duh right), that made me stop and think. It's interesting - in fact, as I read it I was thinking of who to pass it on to - because I think a friend could develop an intriguing sermon series based upon Edwards' concepts.

While Edwards writes about the church, the same concepts and ideas could also be related to the Christian life in general.

I will tell you this, you might not always agree with Edwards, but this book will cause you to stop and ponder.

More About The Book
From The Publisher
Believing there is a way to breathe life back into the church, Tyler Edwards highlights and challenges the problematic attitude of today's believers. Written for the discouraged, disenfranchised, and anyone unsatisfied with their same-old church routine, Zombie Church is an accessible, humorous book that challenges readers to turn away from Spirit-draining (or life-draining) habits that stop them from achieving a full, fulfilling life in Christ.

For all of us who have ever attended First Church of the Frigidaire, Edwards' book will be warmly welcomed. It is a fair-minded and tenderhearted critique. . . . This novel lens of zombies allows the reader to see afresh the desperate need for awakening in the church.

-Mark Moore, PhD, Professor of New Testament,

Ozark Christian College

More About The Author
Tyler Edwards is the lead pastor at Cornerstone Christian Church in Joplin, Missouri, where he works to help people learn how to live like Jesus, love like Jesus, and look like Jesus—so they carry out the mission of Jesus to the world.

He graduated from Ozark Christian College with bachelor’s degrees in both Biblical Literature and Christian Ministry. He has written articles for Lookout Magazine, spoken at various campus ministry events in Missouri, and served overseas in Mbale, Uganda.

Tyler loves cheesy horror films. He is particularly fond of movies like Dawn of the Dead, The Signal, and 28 Days Later, where zombies run wild and threaten to infect an entire town. Connect with Tyler on Facebook.

Online Resources
Buy it at Amazon.com
ind it at Barnes & Noble
Follow the blog tour (see what others think)

It's A Contest
Kregel Publications is sponsoring a $50 Amazon.com giveaway!
To enter all you have to do is send a tweet (using @litfuse) about Zombie Church or share about it on Facebook, your blog, GoodReads, etc...!

If you tweet we'll capture your entry when you use @litfuse. If you share it on Facebook or your blog, just email us and let us know (info@litfusegroup.com). Easy.

Not sure what to tweet/post? Here's an idea:
TWEET THIS: Zombie Church by Tyler Edwards - a fair-minded & tenderhearted critique of the church http://ow.ly/6Nv05 @litfuse RT for $50 to @amazon

FACEBOOK THIS: Don’t miss Edwards - a fair-minded and tenderhearted critique of the church. http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13424384 Written for the discouraged, disenfranchised, and anyone unsatisfied with their same-old church routine, Zombie Church challenges readers to turn away from hollow religious practices, which characterize “zombie Christianity,” and turn toward a radical relationship with Jesus. Share this for a chance at $50 to Amazon.com

Note: As a freelance journalist, I was provided a copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group. This review was not influenced by a free book - just in case you (or the FTC) were worried about this detail.