The Langford Chronicles

Crayola contest

2011-12-11T22:22:00.002-06:00

I stumbled upon this Raising Olives blog site tonight, and even though I haven't been able to read much of it, I think I'm going to love it! I've needed some encouragement lately on having a bigger than usual family, and this site looks like it may be perfect.

Another plus? they are having a Crayola Pop Art Pixies Fab Snaps giveaway! Wouldn't these Pop Art Pixies kits make cute gifts for the tween girls on my Christmas list? How much fun could they have making jewelry, Ice Chandeliers, purses, or decorating water bottles? CUTE!

Promises to Keep

2011-09-03T12:15:00.010-05:00

Ann Tatlock's book "Promises to Keep" uses the voice of an eleven year old girl to tell the story of a family's life in the 1960s. Her writing style is reminiscent of Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" and is very engaging.

Roz Anthony is a young girl with who deeply craves the love and attention of her father. Her best friend, Mara, is a young black girl who struggles with similar problems. The two friends make a "cross your heart and hope to die" promise to keep each other's secrets. These secrets could very easily put Roz in danger and could be life changing for both girls.

Janis, the mother of 3 children. moves to the idyllic town of Mills River seeking safety and security for her children. When she begins work to support her family, she is in need of someone to help watch her children. Janis, much like her daughter Roz, is seeking security and is willing to sacrifice love to feel safe.

Tillie is found on the Anthony family's front porch claiming that the house is hers. She claims that ownership is a matter of the sweat, years and love a person pours into a house. She and her husband had built and lived in the house long before the Anthonys had moved to town and resents her sons for selling her home. Before long, Tillie has worked her way into the family's lives and could very well be an answer to prayer as she steps in to help Janis with the children.

The oldest son, Wally is filled with anger over the treatment he received from his step-father. At the age of 17 he looks forward to being old enough to enlist and join the fight in Vietnam. Wally's father was a war hero, and he desires to follow in his father's footsteps.

All of these characters, and more, build an awe-inspiring story of trust, love and courage. I've already read the book twice and highly recommend it. I'd give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, part 255.

Hidden Affections by Delia Parr

2011-08-05T01:12:00.005-05:00

Hidden Affections is an enjoyable Historical Fiction book by Delia Parr. It begins, "Annabelle Tyler may have hoped she would marry again someday, but she never dreamed she would be wearing handcuffs during the ceremony when she did." Annabelle found herself married to a cad, Eric Bradley who simply married Annabelle for the small inheritance she received when her parents died. He used that money to woo a wealthier woman and returned to tell Annabelle that he was divorcing her.

Being a divorced woman in the 1830's was quite shocking and brought much ridicule to her already lonely life. Annabelle fled her home to try to begin anew. While on the way to a new job, the stage is robbed and the robbers handcuff Annabelle to a well known womanizer, Harrison Graymoor. Left alone to fend for themselves, they try to remove the handcuffs and end up wounding Harrison in the attempt. It begins snowing and the handcuffed couple end up huddled together trying to stay warm.
The next morning the sheriff of a nearby town find the two sleeping side by side and knowing Harrison's reputation, assumes the worse. The sheriff forces the two to wed, hoping to save Annabelle's reputation (unaware that she is divorced). Harrison assures Annabelle that his lawyer will quickly have the marriage annulled and no one will be the wiser.
Yet when they finally arrive at his expansive home, they find their marriage has been publicized in the Philadelphia Inquirer. They decide that they must put on a charade of being a happily married, newlywed couple until the annulment can be obtained. The two move to Harrison's country home outside of town and must convince the godly, perceptive, head housekeeper that they are happily married.
In the progression of the story you see both Harrison and Annabelle begin to mature as they deal with all the difficulties thrown their way. The story is quite predictable, yet is still a good read for a rainy day. (If only we could get that rain!!)
I'd give it 4 out of 5 stars.

The Girl in the Gatehouse

2011-05-23T13:16:00.011-05:00

This is the second book by Julie Klassen that I've had the opportunity to review. The first, The Silent Governess, is my favorite of the two, but this book is equally well written and full of great characters.

The book is set in the English countryside in the 1800's. Mariah lived during a time when a woman working as an author was unacceptable, yet writing is what she loved to do. Having been found in a improper situation, she was abandoned by her family and forced to live in the gatehouse belonging to her ailing aunt. There she supports herself and her faithful servant by secretly writing. One day before her death, Mariah's aunt hides a chest in the gatehouse attic and gives Mariah the key, instructing her to be sure to keep it a secret from her dead husband's son who is desperately trying to sell off anything of value for his own profit. Inside the chest Mariah discovers her aunts journals telling of the family's past.

Captain Matthew Bryant appears at the gatehouse after falling from his horse on a stormy night. Mariah is able to catch the horse and aid the Captain. Matthew decides that the aunt's estate is the perfect place to lease as he courts a young woman nearby. The friendship of Mariah and Captain Bryant develops as they both face uncertain circumstances.

Her aunt's stepson, Hugh Prin-Hallsey, forces Mariah to pay rent after her aunt dies, so Mariah is desperate for a way to raise money. She contacts her brother to help her sell her novels. Her brother goes against their father's wishes and helps Mariah. They both desperately want to please their father and reunite the family but also know that Mariah must raise the funds needed.

This book is well written and will keep you reading to the end! I give it 5 out of 5 stars. Well done, Julie Klassen!

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Chris Tomlin "How Can I Keep From Singing"

2011-04-14T11:12:00.000-05:00

THAT mother

2011-03-10T08:48:00.011-06:00

This morning I was THAT mother. You know, the mother that people see and shake their heads scandalised, albeit mildly, because of how THAT mother has treated her children.

Ben is in a program at school tomorrow. He will be a squirrel. My job last night was to finish his costume by turning a baseball cap into squirrel ears. I cut and sewed brown ears onto the cap after Ben went to bed. He saw it this morning and asked "what about the middle of the ear that is supposed to be pink?" I had forgotten the teacher's instructions. The middle of the ear should have been a lighter color, and yes, my sweet son wanted it pink. I quickly search my limited stash for pink material, with none to be found. SO, being the ingenious mother that I am, I cut up one of my old sweaters and hurriedly begin to hand stitch the ears once again. (Note to self: buy glue.)

Minutes into my attempt to be THAT mother (you know, the perfect one that we all compare ourselves to) I hear, "will you make my lunch?" Uh-oh!! No wonderful left-overs to throw into a thermos, no bread for a sandwich...heck, there wasn't even a jar of peanut butter. So, I con my boys into eating at the school cafeteria - and finish sewing.

As soon as I've completed the squirrel ears, another son innocently asks "what's for breakfast?". Man! I look in the fridge and see nothing appropriate for breakfast (obviously, I need to go shopping ) and tell my boys to jump into the van. We drive to a store and I send the boys in to grab breakfast. At this point I'm still in p.j.s and attempt to stay in hiding from the public. They quickly come out and tell me the line is too long - so they'll do without breakfast rather than be late for school. Sigh. Yes, I really am THAT mother! Nathan informs me that in first period he would be allowed to eat in class if he had something. (How times have changed!)
I drop the older boys off and tell Ben he can be late for school and get breakfast. We stop at McDonald's (gasp!) and buy food. I drop Ben off and then call Nathan and drop breakfast off to him. Aaron, unfortunately, did without but reassured me all was well and that he would be fine. (see, I told you, I AM THAT MOTHER!)

As I'm driving home, berating myself for my lack of planning and poor mothering abilities, my phone beeps. I get home and see my text from Nathan:

"Thank You"

Isn't it amazing how two simple words can change your focus? This morning, on this one really bad day of planning, I am THAT MOTHER. But really? I have a son who was very grateful and excited about squirrel ears. How many boys do you know that are content with that? LOL! I have a son who was very forgiving and willingly went without breakfast just because he wanted to be at school on time (and I plan on getting a REALLY good after school snack for that kid!) I have yet another son who not only thanked me as I dropped off his late breakfast but also signed "I love you" to me as I drove away. THEN, took the time to text me as well.

I may be THAT MOTHER, but I tell you one thing, I've got some GREAT kids! Life is good.

My husband

2011-02-17T18:31:00.003-06:00

Mark decided to surprise me for our 25th wedding anniversary and for my birthday with a new wedding band and ring. I was completely astonished!
We will have been married 25 years in June and have experienced a lot in that time: from moving to 3 different homes, being blessed with 5 children, losing both of our fathers, joyfully celebrating numerous birthdays and anniversaries, watching our kids grow to teenagers, three job lay-offs, and are now dealing with my mother-in-law's Alzheimer's and have sent 2 kids off to college and soon to be blessed with the college graduation of our daughter. Even after spending all of these years learning about and loving my husband, he still has the ability to surprise me and take my breath away. I love you, Mark!! (and I love the ring!)

It's coming!!!

2011-02-16T20:54:00.003-06:00

I get my Birthday & 25th Anniversary gift from Mark tomorrow.

Can't wait!!!

Pictures are coming.

Valentines, Birthday and Anniversary

2011-02-12T22:16:00.004-06:00

Can not wait to show you what Mark bought me today...
It's a gift for Valentines Day, my birthday, and our 25th wedding anniversary.
AND it's GOOD!!!! I'll get it in about 2 weeks.
Pictures coming. I'm excited!!

Cute Valentine gift idea..

2011-02-09T10:35:00.001-06:00

Here is a cute valentine gift idea for all your loved ones!

Feeling Invisible?

2011-01-25T11:33:00.000-06:00

Mom's Bread

2010-12-21T22:00:00.004-06:00

One of my favorite memories is coming home from school as a little girl smelling all the good things Mom had cooking. Cookies, food for supper, pies and more would all fill the kitchen with wonderful aromas. One of my favorites of all was (and still is!) her bread. I finally went to her house one day several months ago to make some with her and made her measure all the ingredients. So, here's one of my favorite, treasured recipes:

Mom's Rolls

1 Tbsp. yeast

2/3 cup warm water

3 cups warm milk

1 egg

1 Tbsp. salt

1/3 cup oil

1/4 cup sugar

7 1/2 cups flour

Dissolve yeast in 2/3 cup warm water.

Add yeast mixture, egg, salt, oil and sugar to the milk. Mix and add flour to make thick sticky dough (about 7 1/2 cups). Mix and Knead. Let rise in warm place. After doubled (or more), punch down and knead again. Form into rolls or loaf. Allow to rise and then bake at 350 degrees for 30 - 40 minutes.

She makes it look so easy, but mine still don't measure up to hers!

A Rush of Wings by Kristen Heitzmann

2010-12-21T21:24:00.002-06:00

When I requested this book for review, I didn't realize that it was a book I've read before. I have no complaints; it was well worth reading again!

I am a fan of Kristen Heitzmann and loved this book as well.

The story is of Noelle St. Claire who is running, but can't remember why. She comes from a wealthy family and has a fiance', Michael, who works for her father. Memories from her past, keep troubling her, but she can't seem to piece them all together.

Noelle finds peace at a ranch run by Rick Spencer. Trying to avoid being traced, Noelle refuses to use her credit cards and begins painting to raise money. Rick and his brother Morgan begin breaking down the barriers that Noelle hides behind. As conflict between the two brothers ensue, Noelle's life becomes more complicated. Her father's private investigator finds her just as her fiance' has discovered where she is hiding.

The suspence in this novel will keep you reading to the very end. I give it 5 out of 5 stars. Great book.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball - Donita K. Paul

2010-12-14T01:01:00.005-06:00

Choosing Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball by Donita Paul as my first book to review for Waterbrook Multnomah seemed to be a no-brainer since I love everything Christmas. I loved the cover of the book and it drew me in. Unfortunately, I'm not rating this one very high.
In the story, Cora prides herself on shopping for Christmas early and avoiding the holiday shopping rush. She finds an unusual book shop and stops to purchase a book for a gift. She ends up on the receiving end of a matchmaking ploy as the owners of the shop (wizards) give her tickets to a Christmas ball. Co-worker Simon is shopping in the same store and also receives tickets to the ball. Simon loves his family, especially his sister, Sandy, and plans to give her a special treat by taking her to the ball. When driving to the store to get a ticket for Sandy, they can't find this enchanted street; only when walking can they seem to find this magical world. As the three are shopping for dresses for both Cora and Sandy, they meet some charming ladies who help them find the perfect outfit for the special night. The dresses, however, will turn into rags when worn by someone other than the intended customer.
I've not read many fantasy books, and I am very uncomfortable with Donita Paul's use of wizards and magic in this Christian novella. I do understand that it is meant as an allegory but I guess I just didn't get it. It had a lot happening in the story line for such a short book and I loved the characters, especially Sandy and her relationship with Simon. The book was an enjoyable read but just isn't one I would recommend to others. Maybe that is just because I'm new to the fantasy genre.

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

The Amish in Israel

2010-12-01T08:10:00.006-06:00

Wow - I think this is amazing!

Click on the above link to read the article in Israel Today Magazine.

A Path Less Traveled

2010-11-15T09:30:00.004-06:00

This sweet lady and author went to Wayland with Mark. I've read the first chapter of her book and can't wait to read it all! If you go to her blog, she is giving away a print copy and an e-copy of A Path Less Traveled for every 20 comments (by different people). So get over there and leave a comment!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Trish James is tired of being rescued. When a spooked horse claims her husband's life, she’s determined to blaze a path for herself and her traumatized son without outside help. But will that mean leaving the place etched on her heart?

Andy Tyler has had to struggle for everything, and starting a new law practice in Miller's Creek, Texas is no different. Though prepared for business challenges, he's not prepared for falling in love--especially with yet another woman who will probably abandon him for her career.

Will Andy and Trish be able to see past their limited human understanding to take . . . A Path Less Traveled?

To read the first chapter go here: http://wordvessel.blogspot.com/2010/10/enjoy-first-chapter-of-path-less.html

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING:

"This book was totally and completely enjoyable to read. I received the book on Friday and finished reading it on Sunday. I could hardly put it down. The storyline is very well written and grabbed my attention in the first chapter and never let me go....One of my favorite lines in the book is this: 'God doesn't waste any hurt you endure, Trish. What he allows into your life--even something as painful as Doc's death--He'll use for the days ahead...' I believe this is so true and have seen it played out in my life. I love it when I can read a really good fiction book and learn more about my relationship with Christ. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a good story to read. I can't wait until Book 3 in the series comes out next year." ~Cathy at Tales of the TCKK Family

"...Cathy Bryant weaves an amazing story. She has a maturity in her writing skill that astounds me for only having two published novels. A Path Less Traveled is a must read. Cathy realistically captures the struggle of the heart." ~ Linnette at Linnette's Writing Corner

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cathy Bryant is a former public school teacher who handed in her chalk for a private music studio and writing career. Her passion is to write heart-stirring stories that show God’s life-changing grace. Cathy is the owner of the popular blog, WordVessel, and has written devotions for The Upper Room magazine, two devotional books, and online devotional sites. She’s the wife of a music minister, the mother of two grown sons and a beautiful daughter-in-love, and the Nana of Harrisen. A Texas gal since birth, she lives in a century-old Texas farmhouse with her husband and a phobia-ridden cat.

Texas Roads (her debut novel and a 2009 ACFW Genesis finalist) released in March 2010. The second Miller’s Creek novel, A Path Less Traveled, was launched in November 2010. The Way of Grace will be available in 2011.

Visit her website at www.CatBryant.com.

PURCHASE LINKS:

Print Edition

Print Edition ~ Amazon

Kindle Edition ~ Amazon

Other eBook Editions (including online reading, iPad, Nook, Sony reader, & PDF)

CHECK OUT THE SPECIAL "TWO-FER" CHRISTMAS PRICE FOR BOTH MILLER'S CREEK NOVELS (only through November 30, 2010)

Joy!

2010-11-09T09:19:00.007-06:00

I am so grateful that my joy does not depend upon wealth or circumstances. It isn't about obtaining or possessing things. Joy is so much more! It is the elation, the contentment, the peace, the privilege of being in God's presence.

You make known to me the path of life;

in your presence is fullness of joy,

at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11

Father, thank You for Your power to bestow a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. May we as a family be as mighty oaks of righteousness planted by You simply used to bring You glory and display Your splendor. Help me to develop an outlook of gratitude and joy, may my life be spent in the joy of Your presence, praising You!

Amy Inspired by Bethany Pierce

2010-11-06T22:33:00.004-05:00

After reading this book I have no idea how to rate it! On the one hand, it was comical and even engaging. At times I caught myself laughing and reading some great one liners out loud to my husband. Author Bethany Pierce had my attention early - in the prologue. I could easily picture a child with an over active imagination eating baby food all week while pretending to be an astronaut eating "moon food". Yet, on the other hand the book definitely had its faults. I felt blindsided with depressing information and a story line concerning breast cancer.

At times the author left me wondering what she was trying to say. For example, the main character Amy Gallagher believes that being opposed to two people of the opposite sex living together is legalistic. In the story, Eli, a 32 year old man is stranded and ends up staying in Amy's apartment. This temporary arrangement ends up being a semi-permanent set up. The story goes on to tell of the two sleeping together (no sex) and realizing the shame in that. But was the author showing that living together is a bad idea, or just using that situation to carry the story along? I'm not sure. There is at least one more example, but I'll stop there. Maybe the author simply failed to bring her points to a strong conclusion or maybe I just missed it. Is she trying to portray real life struggles with a Christian wrestling to do what is right rather than rebelling? Again, I'm not sure.

I'm disappointed that this book was labeled as a Christian novel. It falls short of being clear on the gospel and while there were no actual sex scenes it comes very close. One scene has Amy standing with only a bra and underwear, admitting to a boyfriend that she is a virgin. I will say that others are giving the book a very good rating so perhaps I'm being overly critical and prudish. You decide.
I must admit that I'm as ambiguous as Bethany Pierce because I think I can rate the book after all. Even though the book was entertaining and the author a good wordsmith I'd give it 2 out of 5 stars.
A big Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Hatteras Girl by Alice Wisler

2010-11-05T11:57:00.008-05:00

Hatteras Girl tells the story of Jackie Donovan. Jackie is a journalist who has returned to her home at North Carolina's Outer Banks. Because she is nearing 30, her relatives have a goal to get an engagement ring on Jackie's finger by the end of the year. Jackie suffers through many blind dates trying to appease her loving, well meaning family. Jackie has a goal of her own, a seemingly impossible dream of owning and operating Bailey House, a million dollar bed and breakfast where Jackie and her best friend Minnie spent many delightful afternoons as school girls.

When Jackie is sent to interview Davis Erickson, she discovers that he owns Bailey House. Can she convince Davis that she and Minnie are the ideal people to run the bed and breakfast in the same loving way that his grandparents ran it?

I would give the book 4 out of 5 stars. I felt that parts of the tale (especially her love interests) were somewhat predictable. In the story Minnie faces the death of her husband and her mother's stroke while also raising her son alone. It at times feels a bit subdued with the responsibility she faces; yet it also portrayed friendship and their efforts to help and support each other in a positive light. All things considered, I would say it was well written and an enjoyable read.

You too can become a book reviewer! Go here to check it out!
Thank you to Bethany House Publishing Group for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Redeeming Love

2010-11-02T21:39:00.007-05:00

I was excited when I was asked to choose any WaterBrook Multnomah title I have read and post a review. One of my favorite books of all time is Redeeming Love by
Francine Rivers. I'm sure it would make my top ten list! Even though I haven't read it in years , I still remember this story of God's enduring patience and grace.
The book is set in the 1850's of gold crazed California. Angel is sold into prostitution as a young girl and attempts to protect her heart by shutting down her emotions. Angel hides her real name as her own secret treasure . The fact that she learns to hate men is quite understandable. When she meets Michael Hosea he simply sits and talks to Angel. She is confused by his lack of ardor and uses scorn to guard herself. Michael, obeying God, marries Angel to protect her from further abuse and shows her unconditional love. After much prayer, he hears God tell him to "Feed my sheep". Michael sees what needs he has failed to meet in Angel and tries even harder to show his love.
As Angel begins to feel herself relax and trust Michael, she is hit with fear and overwhelming feelings of inadequacy and flees. Can she ever give the ultimate gift - the sharing of her real name, her trust? Her healing and ability to feel loved must ultimately come from God.

Redeeming Love is based upon the book of Hosea and is a wonderful picture of God's unconditional love. I must find my book and read it again soon!

Chili Pot Pie

2010-10-12T22:15:00.005-05:00

I found a recipe online to try out tonight. I ended up changing it so much, that it looked almost nothing like the original. So, I decided I could call it my own and post it. I did use some of the puree's I had made before but you could leave them out and not notice the difference. It was a hit with my family - I made one larger pan instead of 2 pies (the crust ended up too thick because I didn't divide it out) and had meat left-over. We wrapped the left-over meat in flour tortillas and made burritos for a second meal.

Meat mixture:

1 lb. ground beef

1 cup chopped onion

4 cups fresh spinach torn into bite sized pieces

1 can (16 oz.) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz.) pinto beans, rinsed and drained

2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce

1 can (14 1/2 oz.) stewed tomatoes, undrained

1 pkg. taco seasoning mix

1 tablespoon molasses

1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

1/4 cup orange puree

1/4 cup white puree

Crust (or use your favorite pie crust recipe):

2 1/2 cups unbleached flour

2 cups whole wheat flour

4 tsp. sugar

2 tsp. salt

2 cups cold butter

12 to 14 tablespoons cold water

Directions: In skillet, cook the beef and onion (you could also add green bell pepper at this point) until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in remainder of meat mixture ingredients. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 20 - 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine flour, sugar and salt in a bowl. Cut in butter until crumbly. Gradually add water, mixing with fork until dough forms a ball. Divide into fourths; roll each portion into a circle. Cover w/ plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Line two pie plates with pastry. Divide meat mixture between the two crusts. Roll out remaining pastry to fit tops of pies; place over filling. Flute top and bottom crusts together. Cut slits in top. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 min. Reduce heat to 375 degrees; bake 30 to 35 min. or until golden brown. Let stand for 10 - 15 minutes before cutting. Yield: 12 servings

Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander

2010-10-04T21:08:00.008-05:00

Just when I thought I was all out of books to read, Bethany House sent another one for review!

In 1877, Widow Rachel Boyd struggles to keep her small ranch going to provide for her sons as she had promised her husband. When the farm's cow is in trouble she is forced to put her trust in the town's doctor. Eventually the choice is laid before her, keep going as she has and the farm will fail, risk it all to buy a better breed of cattle, or sell out.

Dr. Brookston was literally saved by the bell as a soldier and nightly faces his fears from that experience. He knew he would be sacrificing a lot to turn down the city hospital's job offer, but wants to make a difference in lives by working in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The townspeople are slow in learning to trust the doctor. When the town's storekeeper is in need of medical attention, the good doctor turns to Rachel, a former Dr.'s daughter, for help in performing the surgery. Both Dr. Brookston and Rachel must face their greatest fears.

I completely enjoyed this book, but was confused about one part of the story. The novel alludes to a tale of Molly, Rachel's sister-in-law, not being accepted by the townspeople, but never really states why. However, upon further investigation, I realized that this is the 3rd book in a series called The Timber Ridge Reflections and the story of Molly is in another book by Tamera Alexander called Beyond This Moment. The novel can be read as a stand-alone book but would perhaps be better enjoyed if you read the whole series. You can read the first chapter of the book here.

City On Our Knees by TobyMac

2010-09-27T09:49:00.000-05:00

Can you tell by my blog that Bethany House has been very generous this month with sending books for review?

This weekend I received City On Our Knees by TobyMac in the mail. Each section in the book is named after a line from the song by the same name and includes a collection of stories about well known people in the church such as St. Patrick, Charles Spurgeon; as well as a story of a conscripted soldier in Hitler's army and modern day Christians that God has used and is using to change the world.
In TobyMac's own words, "City on Our Knees .... offers stories of people who have stepped across lines. Lines of discrimination, persecution, doubt, prejudice, pride, bitterness, self-isolation, and despair. I pray and hope that you will be inspired to see how just one person, or one small group, can be a mechanism for change. God can use us right here. Right now. All we need is faith that He has our best in mind." The stories are inspiring, though I had heard a few of them before they were well worth reading again. The beginning of each section includes several Bible verses and quotes from people for contemplation as well as a TobyMac blog. The section then ends with a one-minute remix and a prayer. The layout would be very conducive to using as a devotional and would be acceptable for a youth group setting. My one complaint is that it would have felt more personal and inspiring to read of what God has done in TobyMac's life rather than him relating other's stories. Yet, it does do what it sets out to do - remind Christians of the importance of prayer and obedience.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Masquerade by Nancy Moser

2010-09-26T12:12:00.000-05:00

Historical romance readers will love Nancy Moser's book on America's gilded age. In Masquerade she weaves a tale of scandal, adventure and romance.

Charlotte "Lottie" Gleason is a wealthy, young English socialite in 1886. She is forced to face reality when she learns of her father's sin and loss of money. Trying to save her from disgrace and provide for her future, her parents send her to America with instructions to wed Conrad Tremain, a wealthy man she has never met. Lottie decides she wants to have a chance to control own life even if it means disobeying her parents and giving up the lifestyle she is accustomed to. She convinces her lady's maid, Dora, to trade places with her.
Dora considers this her chance to escape poverty and avoid a lifetime serving others. She takes Charlotte's place and enters the world of fancy clothing, parties, and leisure. She discovers that all is not well in the Tremain household and even though she likes Conrad and considers him a friend, she learns that it isn't always easy to live a lie.
Charlotte faces many hardships in the streets of New York; robbers, unhealthy living conditions, hard work and unsavory crowds are a shock to her system. She begins to regret her decision and wants to take her rightful place in the Tremain home. Will she learn how to support herself, or will she expose Dora and ruin Dora's chance at happiness? Both ladies must learn to seek God first and trust in His guidance.

This was an enjoyable book worthy of an all-night read!

Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

A look back to God's healing and provision

2010-09-24T21:11:00.008-05:00

Just found this in my "drafts"....a blog written in August 12, 2009, that for some reason was never posted. I had been working at Living Water that day when Mark called saying that Ben was really sick and we needed to get him to the Amarillo hospital. So, now a look back to what we were doing a little over a year ago

.

Things I learned this week:

Anyone reading this probably already knows the story of Benjamin's hospital stay, so I won't bore you with the details again. But here are a few things I learned this week (in no particular order...) Reminder: Pampa Dr. did a CAT scan and blood test in Pampa - and sent results to Amarillo - they declared it appendicitis. Our pastor and Mark prayed over Ben in Pampa. The doctor in Amarillo (a christian ) wanted to double check results before going to surgery. No surgery was needed, and by the next day you would have never known Benjamin had been sick.

1. It isn't fun or easy sleeping in a hospital bed, even if you aren't sick.

2. BSA has an awesome pediatric floor and nurses.

3. I don't want to go back to work as badly a I thought I did.

4. I've lost a lot of brain cells since I last held a job.

5. I'm too old for this. I'm sitting here exhausted, Ben is begging to play outside.

6. Appendicitis and a virus have very similar symptoms at times.

7. Cat scans are more expensive in Pampa than Amarillo.

8. God is my provider and will take care of all the bills! :-)

9. Gib is a very understanding man with a panicked mom. (by the way, Becky I had an unusual call as I was leaving L.W. - Gib handled it, I think, even though the caller insisted on talking with you. It didn't seem to matter that you weren't there.)

10. Ben is a very, very brave kid! He drank 2 cups of "nasty stuff" for the cat scan, had an IV, thought he was going to have surgery, and much, much more, yet never complained or cried. Just asked lots of questions. (One lady later told me it is very similar to drinking two cups full of laundry soap. gag!)

11. Telling the DPS that you are going to the hospital because your little brother is sick can get you out of a speeding ticket. Scott and Sarah were concerned about Ben...

12. ER nurses aren't necessarily good with children. I don't think telling the possible risks of anesthesia and surgery in front of kids is a good idea.

13. A nurse telling a father "you're signing your life away" scares kids. ("what does that mean?!!?" he asked)

14. My sister is extremely good at her job, and very, very understanding about the fact that I am extremely lousy at it.

15. My daughter is very helpful. (She brought her brothers home and stayed with them while we were in Amarillo.)

16. Having Christians in the medical field (Drs. and nurses) is a blessing!!

17. You can encourage others no matter what your job. (The cleaning lady came in saying "you can just call me Cinderella" and told me she was praying for my baby.)

18. You know how kids can get so tired that they can't sleep? I do that too.

19. A hospital stay costing well over $2000 is a quick way to get over a really bad virus.

20. Prayer is an even better way.

A great big Thanks to all who expressed concern and prayed for us! Think I'll go to bed and stay there all day tomorrow. :-)

The Vigilante's Bride by Yvonne Harris

2010-09-21T19:11:00.010-05:00

Imagine a Louis L'Amour book with a feminine touch and you will have a good picture of this debut novel by Yvonne Harris. This western tale begins with orphan Emily McCarthy being told by the orphanage director that they have arranged a marriage for her in North Dakota.
On the way to her Christmas wedding, the stagecoach is robbed. When the robber, Luke, returns and takes Emily with him, she wonders if he is her kidnapper or her savior.

An enjoyable book with mild references to relationship with God. I think that perhaps the character of Luke should have struggled more with remorse over stealing and killing. If he had been a real living person I would have wanted to remind him of God's declaration that "vengeance is mine." (Romans 12:19). There is a fine line between justice and vengeance. The lack of lawmen in the 1800's in the American west did lead to men taking justice into their own hands, hopefully with godly motivation, but all too often the system was not ethical. I simply felt that the issue of vigilantism could have been explored a bit more in the story.

All in all, a great, humorous,and lively book for a rainy day.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Love's First Bloom

2010-09-18T20:12:00.015-05:00

This is the second book of Delia Parr's that I've had the opportunity to review. I love her writing style. I must say that I enjoyed this book from the cover picture to the very end. Having goose feathers for a weapon, using brooms to celebrate July 4th and an annoying pet turkey are a few examples of Mrs. Parr's creativity in her newest book, Love's First Bloom.

The story begins as Ruth's father places a baby in her arms with explicit instructions that she must change her identity and board the ship headed to a small community in New Jersey. She must make some big, life-changing decisions and learn how to discern whom to trust along the way. The two innocent victims of scandal, Ruth and the baby Lily, find refuge in the home of a kind, loving couple living near Toms River.

Ruth obediently and tirelessly cares for the child left in her care. Discouraged and grieving, Ruth begins to seek God as she tends an abandoned garden at the banks of the river. She meets Jake Spencer, a man she believes to be injured and in need of her help. Ruth begins to trust Jake and wonders if he can help her protect Lily from harm. How will Ruth react when she discovers that Jake is actually one of the newspapermen intent upon marring her good name?

This book points out the dangers of media telling all and destroying innocent lives in the process. It is an easy and enjoyable read. I have 2 more Bethany House books to review this month so be looking for more to come.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Somewhere to Belong by Judith Miller

2010-09-16T21:15:00.006-05:00

Judith Miller's book Somewhere To Belong is the first in a series based upon the Amana colonies in Iowa. The colonies were a group of God fearing people who believed in communal living. Their livelihood came from farming and fabric mills. These people of faith believed in spending as much time as possible in studying the Bible and in prayer. They were assigned jobs by a Bruderrat council; the jobs included working with children, gardening, cooking, working in the mills, stable work, and many other duties. They lived a devout, simple, hard working life.

Johanna had lived all of her life in Main Amana and yearns to see the outside world. She longs to begin her adventure by visiting her brother in Chicago. Berta is a young lady who had lived the life of wealth in Chicago. When Berta's parents decide to move to the colonies, she struggles to adjust to this new life. Johanna is assigned the responsibility of teaching Berta and the adventure begins. Both young ladies discover that not even parents always live a life free of deceit and both learn the importance of truth and honesty.

If you enjoy the Amish books that have become popular, then this book will be one that you appreciate. The link above gives a lot of information on the Amana colony and is quite interesting. Anyone want to visit with me? Honestly I did struggle with hearing some of the requirements the families had to live with in the colonies, but the book was interesting, well written and educational.

Tim on Hand Sanitizer

2010-09-15T14:03:00.001-05:00

Shhh...don't tell!

2010-09-11T12:23:00.009-05:00

Last night my family ate spinach, broccoli, peas, sweet potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, and red peppers. Tonight we will add cauliflower and zucchini. Shhh....please don't tell them!!! They just think we had pizza and will think we're having chili tonight.

I've always been known to "hide" vegetables in my kids food. Mainly, I'd grate carrots into any tomato based or ground beef meal we had. Tacos, spaghetti, meat loaf - were all good ways to get a veggie into my kids. You'd have to be a part of our family to appreciate it, but my kids are always laughing at me - letting me know I didn't fool them. In fact, last time Sarah was here, she let me know that I no longer needed to "hide" it - that they were all old enough to know the carrots were there. :-) But as funny as they thought I was, it worked! They would eat the vegetables. I didn't really want to "fool" them, but teach them to eat vegetables willingly, so I never denied my attempt at deceit.

Several months ago I was given an electric steamer. I thought "this takes up so much space in my kitchen, I'll play with this awhile then donate it." but then yesterday I declared a play day for me - and went shopping. I went to a book store and came out with The Sneaky Chef and Deceptively Delicious cookbooks that I found on sale - really cheap. I went home played all afternoon - cooking! (Yes, I'm weird, I know, but I LIKE cooking.)
I fell in love with the steamer - not only does it cook perfect rice, but it works great with all the recipes in my new cookbooks. It may have earned its' space in my kitchen, at least until I lose interest. I made and froze several vegetable purees to add to recipes. Because the vegetables are steamed and then pureed in the food processor, a small amount of puree goes a long way - one cookbook called it "nutritionally dense". I wish I'd had this when my kids were small! No one noticed the difference, but I did notice that everyone ate less pizza than normal, with the vegetables in the sauce, I think it was more filling. (maybe that was my imagination). I'm thinking this is going to be great - not only were the kids eating better, so were the adults. (I normally wouldn't touch sweet potatoes or cooked spinach). How great would it be if it works on my mother-in-law, the world's pickiest eater? I have to admit, it was FUN being sneaky. (maybe one day I'll tell them.) So, what do you do that makes your family think you're strange - or maybe I should just ask what do you do to spend a fun day alone?

The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews

2010-09-07T20:54:00.004-05:00

Mom's review:

My son and I had a fun time tonight reading a review copy of the children's book The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrew. The artwork in the book is great and the story drew us both in.

Using the lives of Norman Borlaug, Henry Wallace, George Washington Carver, and Moses Carver, the book teaches the butterfly effect - how each of our actions affect not only us, but the world! I loved that the book taught history in such an engaging way. The story included tales of each of the men as young boys. Norman played with his sisters in the corn fields, Henry went on expeditions with George and teased about hippos in Iowa. George made a crutch for a friend and Moses had a rooster named Buzz. Each of these things made the book appealing to my son. I would imagine that girls would be just as engaged in the tale as he was. It states that the book is for children ages 4 - 8, but I think this is a book for all ages! Each page has wonderful images of butterflies and ends with an abundance of butterflies and a reminder to the reader that "every little thing you do matters" and "you can be the kid who changes the world". I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am sure we will be reading it many more times!

Son's review:
The Boy Who Changed the World is a book about helping and sharing. Norman helped the world by growing special seeds that fed two billion people. Henry Wallace helped by telling Norman to make the seeds. Henry became the vice president of the United States! George Washington Carver helped Henry by teaching him about plants. But George couldn't have helped without Moses, his adopted father, who saved him.
This book was a very good book. It was about helping and about sharing food. It taught me that what we do is important and can help others.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Sixteen Brides by Stephanie Grace Whitson

2010-08-27T13:04:00.005-05:00

Sixteen women, all with different stories and backgrounds,

join the Ladies Emigration Society and board the train headed to Nebraska. These women have been lured to leave their pasts behind with promises of "free prime homesteads" and an ability to "take control of their own destinies".

Caroline is a typical southern belle whose family will have nothing to do with her after her marriage to a Yankee soldier. Ella is a widow - a large girl with no hope of ever marrying again. She and her mother, Zita, have lost their farm during the war and hope to begin anew. Ruth is proud of her deceased husband's legacy, and is determined to pass that on to her son, Jackson. Sally is a divorced, rough Tennessee gal who becomes responsible for sewing and caring for chickens. Hettie is running from a past she wants to keep secret and yet she can't avoid helping those in need. When they discover that the people are secretly calling them the Ladies Desperation Society and that they've been deceived, anger and confusion abound. These women will discover a strength and determination to make it in this untamed land together.

When I first began the book I struggled to keep us with all of the names and characters, but soon the author narrows the story down to the "Fav-Five". I especially enjoyed reading the verses at the beginning of each chapter as the women learned to give control of their destinies to God and to "Hope On - Hope Ever". I can honestly say I enjoyed the book from beginning to end.

A big thanks to Bethany House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Multi-Purpose Cleaner

2010-08-21T18:43:00.014-05:00

This is a recipe I made a few months ago and I love it! It is great for stains in clothing and spills (or puppy pee...) on carpet. I store some in a spray bottle to clean counters and the bathroom.

Multi-Purpose Cleaner

1/4 cup baking soda

1 cup ammonia

1/2 cup vinegar

1 gallon warm water

Mix well. Shake before using.

Volcano!

2010-08-15T14:26:00.003-05:00

I made the Volcano Cake this weekend. YUM! (Well, it would have been good if I hadn't over cooked it.) I did want to warn anyone planning on making it that it is called Volcano Cake for a reason. Make sure your pan is deeper than the average glass 9x13" pan or put a cookie sheet under it. Mine oozed lava batter all over the bottom of the oven. :-)
The cake tasted like a German chocolate cake with the icing in the middle. If you make it, let me know if yours turned out better than mine!

Pampa High Choir

2010-08-10T17:00:00.002-05:00

I found this picture on facebook.

Look on the third row up - second from the right.... Becky! Are the dresses really pink, or just a faded photo? I'm lovin' those stylin' elbow length gloves. Wow I bet they were hot to wear.

Hearts Awakening by Delia Parr

2010-08-09T22:57:00.007-05:00

This historical fiction novel takes you back in time to a fictional island in Pennsylvania in the 1840's. Ellie Kilmer is an unusual heroine in that she is not a beauty but a simple, plain looking spinster. When she volunteers to clean and care for the sons of Jackson Smith, Ellie struggles to cook with the newfangled cookstove and gently begins to train two active boys. Her ability to forgive and look to God with trust even when her circumstances are less than perfect quickly charm the reader and enable her peers to begin to see beyond her looks to the beauty inside.
The characters in this book made me want to read more books by this author. I'd love to hear more about Gram's life and the experiences she had that enabled her to wisely mentor Ellie. Gram's observation, "the truth of the matter is that we've all got cracks in our spirits, and we have to remember they're only there because we need them....otherwise how could God's grace filter in deep enough to give us the joy and peace we're all searching for...." is a great picture of the story of rejection and God's redemption. A book about Mrs. French and the secret life she carefully hides from the gossips in town would be intriguing as well. The author handled the scandal and gossip concerning the adultery of Jackson's first wife with care and discretion. I'd give the book 3 out of 5 stars. All in all, an enjoyable read.

Thank you to BethanyHouse for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Squash!

2010-08-06T22:35:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure why I saved this recipe. My family doesn't like squash, so I'll never get to try it! But I had a squash casserole once at church that I loved, and I've been looking for a good one ever since. If you try this one, let me know if it's good enough for me to make just for me!

Squash Casserole

1 large onion, chopped

4 Tbsp. butter

3 cups cooked squash, drained and water squeezed out

1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (plus additional)

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tsp. House Seasoning (see below)

1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350*. Sautee' onion in butter for 5 min. Mix all ingredients and top with additional crushed crackers. Bake 25 to 30 minutes.

Variation: layer slices of cooked red potatoes in bottom of casserole pan followed by squash mixture; repeat layers and top with 1 cup Ritz crumbs tossed with melted butter.

House Seasoning

1 cup salt

1/4 cup black pepper

1/4 cup garlic powder

Another Recipe of Clara's!

2010-08-06T06:18:00.003-05:00

Chocolate Chip Pound Cake

4 eggs

1 1/2 cups water

1 tsp. vanilla

1 pkg. butter recipe cake mix

1 - 3.4 oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix

1 - 3.4 oz. pkg. instant chocolate pudding mix

1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter

1/4 cup vegetable oil

6 oz. chocolate chips

Powdered sugar for dusting

Preheat oven to 350*. Grease & flour tube or bundt pan. In mixing bowl beat eggs, water and vanilla by hand. Stir in cake and pudding mixes. Slowly add butter and oil. Mix well. Stir in chocolate chips and pour into prepared pan. Bake 50 - 60 min. Cool for 10 minutes then invert onto cake plate. Sift powdered sugar over cake or drizzle chocolate sauce over it, if desired.

Black Bean Soup

2010-08-05T22:26:00.000-05:00

1 lb. dry black beans

1 Tbsp. vegetable oil

2 cups chopped onion

1 cup finely chopped carrots

1 cup finely chopped celery

2 Tbsp. minced garlic

2 tsp. cumin

1/4 to 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 lb. smoked ham hocks

2 cans 14 1/2 oz. chicken broth

4 cups water

1/4 tsp. dried thyme

1 can 14 1/2 oz. Mexican tomatoes (Del Monte is one brand)

1 1/2 t. salt

sour cream

chopped green onion

Finely chopped bacon

Soak beans over night and drain. Heat oil and add onions, carrots and celery. Cook until tender. Add garlic, cumin and pepper flakes and cook 30 seconds longer. Add ham; stir in beans, broth, water and thyme. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour. Stir in tomatoes with liquid and salt. Simmer covered until beans are tender. Remove ham from bones and return meat to pot. Mash some of solids to thicken broth, if desired. Serve with sour cream, green onion and bacon.

Volcano Cake

2010-08-05T10:06:00.006-05:00

I found a few recipes today that I had saved from Clara Imel's file while working for her. I'll be posting them here just to have a place to save them. I haven't made any of them yet, so if you make it, let me know if it's good!

Volcano Cake

1 cup coconut

1 cup pecans or walnuts

1 pkg. German chocolate cake mix

10 bite size Almond Joy candy bars, chopped

1 - 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, room temp.

1/2 cup butter, room temp.

2 cups powdered sugar

Preheat oven to 350*. Spray 13x9x2" pan. Mix coconut & nuts and spread evenly in pan. Prepare cake mix according to package directions. Stir in candy bars and pour batter over coconut and nuts. Combine cream cheese, butter, and sugar. Randomly drop tablespoons of mixture on top of batter - do not spread them. Bake 40 to 50 minutes or until sides of cake pull away from pan.

If feeling indulgent, serve with whipped cream.

Update: See review here

Sometimes it's good to laugh at ourselves.

2010-06-21T10:41:00.007-05:00

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Seriously, when are we going to learn church isn't about contemporary vs. traditional? It isn't about the method, the music, the performance or entertainment! It IS about The Truth(John 14:6), the message (Romans 10:17), the worship (Psalm 134:2) and our obedience (Heb. 10:25). In church we shouldn't be concerned about us and our tastes or desires, we should be aware of His presence (Matt. 18:20)!!

The Trinity

2010-06-19T09:55:00.005-05:00

Scott loaned me his book Forgotten God by Francis Chan. I'm only on chapter 3, but so far this small book has been great! I just want to quickly share something from the book I'd never seen before and as you read you'll probably think "I can't believe you haven't noticed that!". Actually, I've probably heard it taught and should have remembered. I didn't. ( sigh.)
We've all read Isaiah 9:6, most of us have probably memorized it just from hearing it recited each Christmas.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be on His shoulders, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Right there in this verse predicting Christ's birth we see the son referred to as Counselor which is another name for the Holy Spirit (see John 14:26), and as the Father! The trinity revealed in Christ's birth announcement.
Quoting Francis Chan, "This passage, and many others, keeps us from oversimplifying a divine mystery. It is not easily broken down into three main points that just make sense, but it works. And it is beautiful. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are One." Cool.

I Cor. 4:20 (NIV)

2010-06-18T15:30:00.002-05:00

"the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power".

Friendships for Grown Ups ~ Lisa Whelchel

2010-06-08T21:57:00.010-05:00

I think that writing a book would be one of the hardest things to do. Not only would you have to be a good writer (which I am not) but you would also have to be willing to be transparent and make yourself vulnerable. After all, your book will in some way reveal a part of your life, your thoughts and emotions. Then when your book is reviewed, you are putting yourself in a position of those qualities that you've shared being criticized.

In her book Friendships for Grown Ups, Lisa Whelchel does just that. She candidly discusses walls that she had built around herself for protection and the lack of ability to build friendships because of those walls. Lisa openly and honestly shares her deep, personal struggles and how God began to break down those walls in her life. She discusses how needy she felt and how she was finally able to begin building deep, lasting relationships.

I did enjoy the book and at times could empathize with Lisa's struggles. I felt that the book offered some good tips,but I will say that at times I was grateful not to be a friend of Lisa's with all of her expectations for friendship and the details of relationships being shared so publicly! My first thought was that the book would be better if it were geared toward teens or young adults. Yet as I've read reviews for her book, I was amazed at how many adults shared how they too could relate with Lisa's experiences and insecurities. One real problem I had with the book is when she shares about having a male "sponsor" that she called daily to talk about her problems. Lisa did end the relationship when she realized where it could lead, but perhaps she could be a bit clearer that a relationship of that type should never be started. This would be a good book for women who struggle with developing friendships.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Peach Enchiladas

2010-06-07T22:48:00.006-05:00

Sunday morning I woke up early and made the perfect plate of creamy caramel. Why was I up early before Sunday School to make a plate of caramel? Strange cravings? Nope, accident!
Once a month we take breakfast to our class and I began making a great recipe for peach enchiladas. Failing to read the recipe correctly, I put the sugar mixture on the stove thinking it would help the lumps of sugar dissolve as I searched for the butter in the fridge. Evidently, it took me way too long to find that butter. I turned around to find this wonderfully amber colored liquid in the sauce pan. I quickly added the butter hoping to salvage it. Nope, too late - it didn't work. I poured it into a plate and it developed into the aforementioned caramel! YUM!
Kudos to Mark for coming to the rescue and helping me make the peach enchiladas in time for Sunday School. The verdict? Both the caramel and enchiladas were delicious! Never would have thought cinnamon in caramel would be good.
(Organizing the fridge is now on my to do list...)

Thanks to Mark's cousin, Jessica, for sharing her recipe!

Ingredients:
2 packages (8-ounce size) refrigerated crescent rolls
1 cup butter
4 firm ripe peaches, peeled and quartered, or 1 bag of frozen unsweetened peaches, thawed
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 can (12-ounce size) Mountain Dew or Sprite

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 F.

Melt butter and add sugar and cinnamon. Mix together and set aside.

Unroll crescent roll dough and separate on the perforations. Place a peach quarter in each triangle. Roll from large end to small. (If desired, after rolling, encase peach with dough by gently stretching and pinching dough together.)

Place rolled dough in a 12x10x2-inch baking pan. Pour or spoon butter mixture over all. Pour Mountain Dew (or Sprite) on top. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Serve as is or with ice cream. (This recipe can be easily halved.)

Hope you enjoy!

She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell

2010-06-02T00:41:00.017-05:00

Before the time that it was decided Clara's debut was to come a year early, the governess spent time teaching what Clara enjoyed most - math, science and literature. Her scholarly activities intrigued her and she dreamed of attending Vassar college. Her somewhat persnickety Aunt came to the rescue when it was discovered that Clara had learned little of what was required to impress those in society. Lessons in posture, etiquette, dancing and clothing began to consume Clara's days and evenings. Clara was expected to restore the family honor by landing the DeVries heir as her beau. Her friend Lizzie was her encourager and lifeline, but when both girls are required to pursue the same young man, they wonder if their friendship will withstand the pressure.
The memories of her deceased mother were few, but one event stuck in Clara's memory. Her mother had been singing the hymn "Just As I Am" as she went through the rigmarole of preparing for an evening at a ball. Her mother hugged her fiercely and said,"Would it not be wonderful if God loved us just as we were, darling girl? Without affectation or pretension?" The young Clara threw her arms around her mother's neck and declared, "I like you just the way you are!" Could Clara find someone who would feel the same about her? Facing her family secrets could be life changing for the young debutant if she could find the courage to do so.

Set in the 1890's in New York City during the Gilded Age, this historical fiction has some well developed characters, my favorite being the Aunt who was unaware of her need for the same unconditional love that Clara was seeking. The book's group discussion guide includes a healthy admonition that even in today's culture you will be expected to behave in ways dictated by society and your social class unless you are willing to make a stand for what you believe in. The references to God and His love were very subtle and sparse but ultimately a reminder that our goal should be to please Him above all else.

Thank you to BethanyHouse for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Plan B by Pete Wilson

2010-05-28T05:19:00.003-05:00

I will begin this book review by apologizing to Thomas Nelson for being so slow in getting it posted. We've spent so much time in Dr. offices and hospitals, I forgot I had to get 'er done!

This book begins with some good truths, those that seasoned Christians may need to be reminded of at times and truths that new Christians need to hear.

Everyone at some point wakes up to discover that a part of their life is going to be nothing like it was planned. What happens when it seems that God's promises to you are not being accomplished? Perhaps you don't have the answer to the question - Why? Pete Wilson reminds us of the experiences of Bible characters and uses modern day stories from his experiences as a pastor to attempt to help people face those questions.

David had been anointed as the next king and had experienced his first success in killing Goliath. He then began working in the palace only to find King Saul jealous and bitter.
Joshua found himself the leader after Moses' death. He had to trust God enough to take the risk of stepping into a flooded river to cross to the land of promise. Good stories, with wonderful truths - yet I would recommend that if you read this book, you read it with your Bible open. At times Pete Wilson adds emotions to the Biblical characters that the Bible does not mention.

The book does show that having problems or tragic things happen does not mean that God is not with you or that He doesn't love you. Wilson says "so often instead of giving us what we think we deserve, instead of taking away our pain.....He (God) offers us the promise of His presence. But this is not a consolation prize. It's exactly the gift you need ..." I love that statement, yet later in the book, he refers to Christ's death on the cross as the "ultimate Plan B". Perhaps I read into it something that the author did not mean, but He fails to quickly and clearly say that the cross was truly God's Plan A and that perhaps circumstances in our lives, things that we look at as a Plan B are in reality God's original plan. I must admit that much later in the book he says that we must be willing to abandon our life plans to receive the life that God authored for us, but the point should have been made much quicker rather than calling the cross a Plan B. He also states that in Jesus' prayer in the garden before His death, Jesus was saying, "I don't like this.....I'm not even sure I can handle this." He is making a point concerning getting rid of idols in our lives and following Christ's example and attitude of not my will, but Thine, however, saying that Christ was wondering if He could handle the circumstances is unacceptable in my opinion. I would like to once again encourage you that if you read the book , please compare it to the ultimate book of Truth, God's Word, the Bible. That's good advice no matter your circumstances!

Psalm 33

2010-05-06T15:22:00.007-05:00

Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
it is fitting for the upright to praise him.

Praise the LORD with the harp;
make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.
Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.

For the word of the LORD is right and true;
he is faithful in all he does.

The LORD loves righteousness and justice;
the earth is full of his unfailing love.

By the word of the LORD were the heavens made,
their starry host by the breath of his mouth.
He gathers the waters of the sea into jars ;
he puts the deep into storehouses.

Let all the earth fear the LORD;
let all the people of the world revere him.

For he spoke, and it came to be;
he commanded, and it stood firm.
The LORD foils the plans of the nations;
he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD,
the people he chose for his inheritance.

From heaven the LORD looks down
and sees all mankind;
from his dwelling place he watches
all who live on earth-
he who forms the hearts of all,
who considers everything they do.

No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.
A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.

But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,
to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.

We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.

May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.

Ben's Youngest Granny

2010-04-22T18:34:00.010-05:00

In the van yesterday, Ben began talking about having lots of grannies. "I have great, great, great, (etc.) grannies" I told him that if he wasn't careful, he'd go back far enough to be listing Eve from the Bible. Trying to get him to quit saying "great, great great....." I began listing his great grandmothers names to him, "Olive, Sadie, Effie, and Clara." Ben said, "I DO have a lot of grannies!" Then he began listing them...."Becky, Granny....." ROFL! I stopped him to say, "No, Becky is your AUNT". I don't think I ever convinced him he finally hopefully said, "But she's LIKE my Granny- isn't she?!"

April showers!

2010-04-17T17:23:00.011-05:00

We had an unusual event for Pampa this weekend. Rain! Lots of rain. Over 3.6 inches as of noon yesterday - and it rained all afternoon after we heard that measurement. Above is a picture of my mother-in-law's back yard. (The puddles in our backyard weren't as impressive. LOL) The boys and I decided to head to the Pampa City Lake and see what it looked like.

Nathan and Benjamin began wading in the parking lot beside our van.

See the rectangular pieces of wood? That isn't the dock, it is the handrails for the dock!

Aaron decided to venture further out, determined to get to the dock.
Note that less than a week ago the water was 2 or 3 feet below
the bottom of it.

Success! He made it .

I'm singing in the rain
Just singing in the rain
What a glorious feelin'
I'm happy again..

Joel Osteen's Fault?

2010-04-12T14:08:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure how I came across this, but here is an unusual take on our economic woes:
click here and then here. (I don't know Jennifer Taylor, I just happened upon the blog and thought it was good!)

Book Review: Lonestar Homecoming by Colleen Coble

2010-04-07T10:48:00.012-05:00

Author Colleen Coble's thirty five novel and novellas have won or finaled in numerous awards. Her goals of writing books that acknowledge God and to write for Him was brought to fruition after the death of her brother. She states that she learned that she didn't have time to wait to accomplish what God was telling her to do. Having been raised in the Midwest and growing up with the adventures of living on a farm must have helped inspire her newest book LoneStar Homecoming.

This charming book begins with Gracie Lister fleeing from her fiancee' on her wedding day. Gracie's response to problems seems to always be the same - she runs. Gracie fled with five dollars, a train ticket and the wedding dress she was wearing. She and her young daughter land in a small Texas town and are offered refuge by widower Michael Wayne. Michael is in need of a caretaker for his children and agrees to consider hiring her. Romance quickly springs up between the two but that is a limited piece of the story. Gracie's learning to face her past and the mystery involved is a larger part of the story. LoneStar Homecoming is the third in the LoneStar series, but can be read as a stand alone book. I have not read the first books in the series but had no trouble following this story. If you enjoy prodigal son stories, Christian fiction and are looking for a light, enjoyable read add this to your reading list.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My first Lent....

2010-04-03T22:49:00.015-05:00

The practice of Lent is not a thoughtless practice, of giving up something just for the sake of giving it up. Quoting Jon Shuler on Ash Wednesday, "at the heart of the call of Lent is the stripping away of what really you don't want back and the putting on of what you would like to be the habit of the rest of your life." Lent is a facing of what we need to repent from , to expose our sins, to renew our commitment to Christ, to fast as a way to learn how to deny ourselves "to bring our flesh, our mind and our will into conformity with God's purposes." (again quoting Jon Shuler) It is about inward change.

It is humbling to admit that it took my 7 year old son's willingness to lead me to practice Lent. I don't think I would have ever considered it unless he had asked to do it. I think I tend to want to ignore the suffering of Jesus. To skip the story of Jesus' suffering and go right to the joy of His resurrection. The practice of Lent has begun to lead me to reflect on how my actions and thoughts have displeased God. I am uncomfortable looking at my failings and sinfulness. I don't like for things to be messy emotionally, I don't want to see the blood or acknowledge the pain. It is almost too much to bear to hear of the intense agony Christ suffered because of MY sin! Yet it is the very suffering and dying that brings me to God, to forgiveness and eventually from confusion and despair to hope. There is no real joy in Easter without the cross. The cost of my sins can not be ignored in favor of a joyful Easter. In fact, facing the debt He paid brings me from the point of facing the cross of pain to seeing the empty tomb of triumph. I'm not ready for Lent to end, I think I'm just now beginning to really understand, yet, I think I am more ready to truly celebrate Easter than I have ever been before. To be able to declare, "Christ is risen!" He is risen indeed.

How Deep the Father's Love For Us

2010-04-02T21:01:00.012-05:00

How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
And make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the man upon the cross
My sin upon His shoulder
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

Why should I gain from His reward
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

*Lyrics by Stuart Townsend

CVS Deal

2010-04-02T10:47:00.004-05:00

I'm not one of those people who can save hundreds of dollars every month using coupons to get groceries. I wish, but I'm not. Living in small town Texas makes it tough - no double coupons, no great sales,(excuses, excuses). But I did find a great deal at CVS this week! I scanned my card at the price-scanner and it spit out a coupon for $1 off CVS hair care products. The shampoo and conditioner above are price at 99 cents, so I walked out with a free bottle of shampoo. I went back the next day to get some medicines, got the same coupon and walked out with another free bottle! I may not have all the coupons or CVS deals figured out, but I nailed this one!

Promises Kept

2010-04-01T11:39:00.002-05:00

In homeschool this week we've been studying the events leading up to Jesus' death and resurrection. Yesterday Ben and I read the story of Mary anointing Jesus with expensive perfume. I asked Ben "what can we learn from this story?" His answer was "That Jesus always keeps his promises!" Huh? That's a great truth but where is that in this story? "Well:, he said, "Jesus promised Mary that whenever the story is told, what she has done will be told too, and we're talking about her today"! (Mark 11:9) Good lesson! With that we ended the Bible study - I figured what he learned was as good as what I'd planned on teaching!

Fig Trees

2010-03-31T22:55:00.002-05:00

On Monday, when we read the story of Jesus cursing the fig tree (Mark 11:12-25) Ben's response was, "that's weird!". His reaction was much like mine has been in the past. I've heard the explanation of the symbolism before: the fig tree is a representation of Israel and Jesus is condemning the nation for not bearing fruit. I get it, but still, the story has always seemed odd to me - cursing a fig tree when it wasn't even the season for it to bear fruit. Ben was right, it IS weird.
So, we did a little research, and if I understand correctly, the fig tree actually CAN have fruit out of season. The trees will grow green figs that are so bitter that only the hungriest travelers would eat them. Those figs fall to the ground to rot and then the tree produces the good fruit. If a tree doesn't have those first green, bitter figs that is a sign that it will not produce good fruit in season.

Perhaps Jesus was preparing his followers to understand the next event recorded in Mark 11 when he clears the temple area by driving out the money changers. Maybe he was giving them a visual lesson on the lack of fruit in the lives of those he would soon be driving out of the temple?

I have to admit that I did a poor job on trying to explain the story to Benjamin. Finally tonight I came up with what I SHOULD have told him. Maybe Jesus cursed the fig tree out of season to show us that He wants to see the signs that we will be bearing fruit for Him and that He wants us to bear fruit in ALL seasons, not just when it's easy and convenient!
I can't deny feeling relieved that Jesus didn't curse a tree for something it couldn't do! :-)

Hunter's Moon by Don Hoesel

2010-03-31T16:24:00.008-05:00

With his grandfather dying, author C.J. Baxter heads back to a place he hasn't been in over 17 years - home. The power hungry Baxter family and their home have been sitting atop Franklin County’s highest point for over 200 years. Their goal to become as powerful as the renowned Irish-American Kennedy clan only succeeds as far as the town of Adelia. Even though he has become something of a hometown celebrity, C.J. isn't welcomed by his own family. However, once he is there, Adelia, N.Y. seems like a good place to escape from a failing marriage, bad book reviews, a probable lawsuit and possible arrest. After being attacked by his older brother, Graham, C.J. decides he can be as ruthless as his family and determines to reveal the deep, dark family secrets. Risking much, he begins to write an expose'. Graham Baxter is running for Senate and in his grab for power the last thing he wants is for C.J. to write about his transgressions. Graham, his father, and his campaign manager struggle to keep C.J. quiet in order to save the run for election.

Hunter's Moon is the second novel of Don Hoesel. I completely enjoyed reading this captivating mystery! The suspense in the novel kept me reading late into the night, and the outcome was completely unexpected. The Library Journal is quoted on the cover saying, "This intelligent drama will appeal to readers who enjoy stories about...the faith that guides one through life." With that, I disagree. There was very little faith mentioned in the book - C.J. is a new Christian struggling to forgive but you really don't see his character seeking God to direct his many decisions. However, the book is a great read and I look forward to reading more from Don Hoesel.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.

Palm Sunday

2010-03-28T20:10:00.001-05:00

Can you imagine what it was like that first Palm Sunday? The Jews had been anticipating the King's coming for hundreds of years. They had been taught from birth to watch for His coming, wishing for someone to rescue them from the Roman oppression. With palm branches waving and voices raised in praise, they must have been envisioning a spectacular extravaganza! (Mark told me that the palm branches were actually used as a covert sign of rebellion and disdain toward the Romans.) Surely this great King would come clothed in royal robes surrounded by an impressive escort, riding a noble steed! They watched with bated breath, tip-toeing to see him enter the city, perhaps pushing their way to the front of the crowd so that their children could see this great, new king. Yet, Jesus came gently, weeping, and riding on a donkey. If the people were shocked, or disappointed at His appearance, the Bible doesn't mention it, but certainly some were surprised. Jesus didn't give the people what they WANTED - a great earthly king to save them from tyranny. He gave them what they NEEDED - freedom from sin. He was bringing them a new life.

Matt. 21:8 tells us "A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road." I wonder, what is it that Jesus wants those of us today to lay down in front of Him to declare His Lordship? Bad attitudes, personal agendas and plans, desires, unworthy thoughts....?
Then Matthew 21:0 says "The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted,
"Hosanna to the Son of David!"
"Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!"
"Hosanna in the highest!"

I've always heard that some of the same people were the ones at the end of the week crying "Crucify Him!" I wonder, how many of them were just disillusioned because they didn't get what they wanted? Are we that fickle and ungrateful today? How often do we secretly wave palm branches of rebellion and disdain at things that have been ordained to enter our lives in order to make us grow- looking for the easy way out of a situation just as the Jews were? Do our voices lifted in praise, our coats laid down to carpet His way become fists raised in anger when we face pain and disappointment? Or, perhaps even worse, does our excitement and anticipation become apathy and lack of interest? Does God want to vomit our lukewarmness out of His mouth? We need to remain hot: trusting, faithful and see that God is giving us what we really, and truly need. He is NOT an over-indulgent Father who causes harm by giving in to our every whim.

Palm Sunday is still a day of expectations. Mark 13:35 - 37 tells us to be on the alert - "If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!" Everyday should be a day of looking ahead; anticipating His second coming, and on that day you can count on the fact that He won't be riding on a donkey!!

Lord, thank you for being my King! Help me to keep my eyes focused on You and what you desire for my life rather than on my selfish desires! Help me to see others as you see them, needing new life and forgiveness! Change me. Make my desires YOUR desires. Help me to lay my ALL down at Your feet, to honor and praise You in a way that pleases You, without concern for what others think! May my heart be forever grateful, not doubting even during pain and hardship. Draw me ever closer to You, help me to thirst after You and seek You with all my heart. Help me to remain "hot" in You! May my sacrifices be pleasing to You. Help me to stay awake, prepared, anticipating Your triumphant return. Lord, come quickly!

Jane Austen

2010-03-18T15:17:00.006-05:00

Thomas Nelson now has a new series of biographies called Christian Encounters. These compact books tell of the experiences, trials and adventures of people from different ages and areas of the Church. I chose to read the story of Jane Austen.
The author, Peter Leithart, begins by telling of world events that were occurring during Austen's life then proceeds to tell of her family and the importance of faith in Jane's life. The author obviously did a lot of research for this book and relied upon Austen family letters and other sources to tell of Jane's personality and experiences.
Jenny, as she was called by her family, began writing early in life. She loved to write simply for the entertainment of her family. Her books were written at a young age and then edited and rewritten many times before she was published.
It was hard to keep up with all the family members and friends discussed. There are, however appendixes in the back listing Austen's family, friends and neighbors and the characters from her novels. The book felt dry and a bit boring, but as I continued to read I appreciated learning more about this literary celebrity.
Since this is my blog and not on a more public book review site, I will take the liberty of saying this to my niece: Amy, I think I know why you enjoy Jane Austen novels. It's because you are so much alike! She was a P.K. (preacher's kid) and had lots of brothers. (5, if I remember correctly) She was a member of the Anglican Church, had a great sense of humor, and faith was an integral part of her life. I could definitely picture the two of you sitting together empathizing over the antics of brothers, laughing and having a good time!

*Thank you to Thomas Nelson for supplying this book for review through the Book Sneeze program! All opinions expressed are my own.

Beguiled

2010-03-18T15:11:00.000-05:00

Deeanne Gist's romance writing combined with J. Mark Bertrand's suspense writing blend together into a mildly interesting tale.
Rylee is a sweet, overly naive orphan trying to support her grandmother. She finds herself a suspect in a ring of burglaries. The Robin Hood like thief steals and turns the items over to charities telling them to sell the items and use the money. Rylee's clients are the victims, missing items that hold sentimental value. In steps Logan Woods, a resourceful, energetic reporter who fears dogs. Together, the two begin to investigate.
I did find the main character of Rylee being a rollerblading dog walker a bit bizarre, yet her walks through Charleston did give me a good picture of what the city is like. Honestly, I did have the mystery figured out fairly quickly and the book felt a bit predictable to me. All in all, it did keep me entertained and distracted as I waited during my husband's surgery. An easy read.

*Thank you to Bethany House for supplying this book free of charge as part of their book review program.

Not a Sparrow Falls

2010-03-17T21:31:00.010-05:00

I recently received the book Not a Sparrow Falls by Linda Nichols from Bethany House to review. In the story, Mary learns 100 Bible verses as a little girl that she begins to cling to for hope. She unsuccessfully tries to keep her family together after her mother's death. Soon after her brother and sisters are taken, Mary finds herself in a life of crime because of one bad decision after another. She runs, trying to escape from danger and the life she desperately wants out of, and lands in the town of Alexandria, Virginia. Mary assumes her mother's identity for protection and finds peace in the sanctuary of an old church.

Alasdair MacPherson's job and family seem to be crumbling. As pastor of the church, he has many responsibilities and never seems to be able to keep the congregation or his 3 sisters happy. His three children pay the cost as they are neglected by their distracted father. Samantha, his oldest daughter lays her written prayer, "Help me, God", down in the church. Mary sees the prayer and becomes involved trying to help Samantha. Mary uses the verses she learned as a child to help the children and their father heal. She is reminded of God's love and forgiveness and tells Samantha "It's running from things that gives them strength." Can Mary keep her past hidden and be able to help the family, or should she take her own advice and quit running? This story of forgiveness and redemption is one I recommend. I completely enjoyed reading this book and loved the characters. I would give it 5 out of 5 stars. Thank you to Bethany House for allowing me to review the book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Never Say Never

2010-03-10T14:16:00.008-06:00

"Home isn't a place, a structure you create from wood or bricks or mortar, building the walls high and strong, to keep out the storms of life. Home is in the things you carry with you, the treasures of the heart..... It is a dwelling place you share with the people who matter most, a refuge in which you are never alone. The Builder is always nearby, tearing down old walls and adding new rooms, repairing the damage of wind and weather, filling empty spaces with new gifts." What a great ending to a fun book!

In Never Say Never, Lisa Wingate tells the story of Kai Miller and her attempt to put down roots after living a childhood moving from place to place. Kai ends up in the small town of Daily, Texas after escaping from a hurricane near her home and discovers the never before experienced welcome of a small town. She met and saved Donetta Bradford during a risky evacuation during the storm and an unlikely friendship begins to develop. Donetta, having had a similar childhood, is able to aid Kai in ways she could not have imagined. The story is told from the perspective of both Kai and Donetta which makes small town Texas come alive. If you are looking for a lighthearted, entertaining book, then Never Say Never is a great choice! You can read an excerpt from the book here.

*Thank you to Bethany House for providing the book free of charge for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Hidden Flame by Davis Bunn & Janette Oke

2010-02-25T10:49:00.005-06:00

The Hidden Flame takes you back in time to the early church. You can feel the heat of the day and the cobblestones under your feet as you walk through the streets of Jerusalem with Abagail. She is a quiet, unassuming, gentle lady who has two suitors vying for her hand in marriage. The history of the early church comes alive. You feel Abagail's joy and pain as she experiences celebration and hardships during the growth of the early church and the beginning of persecution of the followers of The Way. I love the way Bunn & Oke show the traditions and daily lives of the Jews using both fictional and Biblical characters.

This narrative explores the lives of the early believers in ways I'd never thought of. Who were the families of Ananias and Sapphira? Were they angry at God and Peter for the death of the couple? What about Stephen's family? Were they proud of his sacrifice or confused by what God had asked of him? As the authors explore these questions in this fictional story, they present many truths and make the characters come alive.

The Hidden Flame is the second in the Acts of Faith series. I haven't read the first book The Centurion's Wife but do plan to pick it up soon. However, it is not necessary to read the first in the series to be able to follow the story in this book. It was a book that was hard for me to put down. I'll be looking forward to reading more in this series!

*Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for me to review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Psalm 138:8

2010-02-24T11:00:00.006-06:00

"The Lord will accomplish what concerns me: Your lovingkindness and mercy, O Lord, endures forever:

Do not forsake the works of Your hands."

~Psalm 138:8

Sense and Sensibility Insight Edition

2010-02-23T01:10:00.015-06:00

Having never even glanced at a Jane Austen novel, I was afraid that reading this book would not be fun. Yet I found myself caught up in the story of two sisters, one levelheaded(sometimes hiding her emotions) and the other very dramatic. This is a tale of sisters who struggle to learn what love is truly about and of their unending loyalty to each other.

What made the book interesting to me were the notes added by the editors. They included Historical and cultural details, information on Jane Austen's life, references to Sense & Sensibility in films, an unscientific ranking of the novel's most frustrating characters and themes of faith drawn from the novel or Austen's life. I actually caught myself laughing out loud as I read some of the side notes. The comments helped lighten the tone of the book and made it painless and even fun to read. If I were homeschooling my daughter, I would definately use The Insight Edition! If you are a die-hard Jane Austen fan or a novice like me, this edition will show you why Sense and Sensibility is considered a classic.

*Bethany House supplied this book free of charge as part of their book review program. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen

2010-02-23T00:24:00.004-06:00

When Olivia fled from her home in fear, the last thing she wanted was to know Lord Bradley’s secret. After all, she had enough troubles of her own. Yet the knowledge she acquired from her unintentional eavesdropping afforded her the job of the silent governess. She had found a refuge from her troubles until she could discover what had happened the night she ran. Had she killed her own father?

As I began reading this book, I failed to read the back cover. When I did read it, I was not shocked to discover that the author, Julie Klassen, is a fan of “all things Jane”. You can definitely see the influence of Jane Austen in her writing. I enjoyed her style of writing, the story is well written and very entertaining. Her characters are richly developed and leave you wanting to know them even better. Olivia learns that the event of intentionally losing a bet as a child was not what truly estranged her from her father and Lord Edward Bradley discovers the truth of his birth. Klassen cleverly shows her readers the power of living in truth.

*Thank you to Bethany House for supplying this book free of charge as part of their book review program. I received no monetary compensation for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Lent = Spring!

2010-02-17T15:17:00.008-06:00

As Ben and I sat at McDonald's today, I happened to remember that it was Ash Wednesday. So, I started to explain what little I knew about Ash Wednesday and Lent to Benjamin. Basically I explained that those who practice lent put ash on their foreheads as a sign of repentance and compared it to Mordecai's fast in the book of Esther and how he covered himself in ashes to show his grief. Then explained that the people give up something for 40 days to help them remember Jesus' sacrifice of dying on the cross so that they would be ready for Easter morning.
Benjamin's immediate response was, "Can I do that?" I asked what he would give up and he started a long list of electronics - T.V., games, computer....and I said "Wait! You don't want to make it too hard, forty days is a long time!" What was I thinking??? I'm not sure why my first impulse was to discourage him. After all, sacrifice is part of the lesson, right? Right? What exactly is Lent anyway???

Soon after that, Ben ran off to play on the playground. I began wondering how in the world we are going to practice Lent since I know little to nothing about it?!? Then Amy W. called. "Oh!", I thought with relief, "someone who knows about lent and can help me!" When we talked, she handed the phone to Jay and he graciously explained Lent to this Baptist girl. (All mistakes are my own, not Jay's! So, correct me if I get this wrong.) Lent literally means Spring. Oh! I get it (maybe...). Spring, renewal, reconciliation. A time of listening to that still, small voice. Jay called it a time of re-examining, the focus being not on what you give up but upon learning about Christ's ministry and death on the cross. Like Advent is preparing for the celebration of Christ's birth, Lent is preparing for the celebration of His resurrection Whew! I can do this!

At Jay's suggestion we started today by reading in Matthew 4 about the temptation of Jesus. First thing Benjamin noticed was that Jesus fasted for 40 days too! (okay, not sure I get the count of 40 days - it's actually 46, I think, but we don't count Sundays?? Where is Jay when you need him?? LOL) We talked about how important it is to know scripture so that when we're tempted we can respond like Jesus did. We also discussed that if Satan would tempt Jesus, he will tempt us too. I'm always amazed at what Ben picks up on as we study the Bible together. So, as we give up what Ben calls electronics, together we'll be spending that time learning. It may be tough. I will only be using the computer to do the book reviews I need to do to keep that commitment or for research that I need for school. (Ben also approved me blogging about Lent. ha!) No T.V. - Ben assured me that the Olympics weren't that big of a deal. I can't wait to see what Ben and God teach me in the next 40 days!

Sewing 101

2010-02-12T23:15:00.022-06:00

Each time Ben sees me sewing he begs me to teach him. So, when I saw a paper card sewn online, I decided it would be a good Valentine's Day project and beginners sewing lesson too.

I couldn't help but think of Tim the Tool man Taylor and his cry "more power!" on the old sitcom Home Improvement. Ben loved switching back and forth between a zigzag and straight stitch as well as changing the stitch length. Many times. On the same card.

At one point he forgot to lift the sewing machine foot off the material and I told him to "lift the foot" I didn't realize he was - lifting HIS foot. Oops. My fault. We had to stop and go over the names of the machine parts.

He was actually very careful and good with the machine. I, on the other hand, discovered that it was MUCH easier to watch from behind a camera. It kept me from taking over or correcting every mistake and from being so uptight about those little fingers being so close to that fast moving, sharp needle.

Here's a sampling of the cards. I've really got to learn to take better pictures.

These were a little too girly for his taste, but were some of my favorite. He was very particular about which fabric to use for each person.

This transformer card is a good example of his use of the different stitches and lengths. He really loved moving those knobs and back stitching!

He very excitedly told me "I love sewing! What if I got to do this for my job? That would be fun!" So, I had to look it up. A male seamstress is actually called a sartor, seamster, or tailor. So, there you have it. My little sartor. Happy Valentine's Day!

Buried Alive

2010-01-27T23:43:00.005-06:00

The book Buried Alive is the extraordinary, true story of Roy Hallums. He was a retired U.S. Navy commander working as a civilian in Iraq. The Saudi Arabian Trading and Construction Company provided security for Roy Hallums and his co-workers as they worked to supply food for the American Army in Baghdad. Yet, one of the security team was actually a traitor who arranged for the security gate to be unlocked and led a gang of men into his office.
Mr. Hallums is kidnapped and moved from place to place until he reaches a small farmhouse. He is held captive in a small concrete hole underneath an Iraqi home. As this traumatic story unfolds, you hear not only of his mistreatment, but also of his wisdom as he deals with each situation. Roy Hallums was held hostage for 311 days enduring beatings, filthy conditions, bad ventilation, and a great deal of abuse. His family was not even aware he was in Iraq until his capture. The book does a good job of telling the story of both his and his family’s experience.
Buried Alive is not the type of book I usually read, and I actually considered handing it over to my husband for review. I’m glad I didn’t. I was amazed at Mr. Hallum’s ability to keep up with dates and his recall of details. It was shocking to hear how his family was treated during the events. It seemed as if the government considered them the enemy rather than victims. This well written volume gives you a good grasp of what it is like to be under terrorists control and how to respond. Even though Roy rarely mentioned faith, his example of taking each day as it came is a good example of living out Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

* I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I received no monetary compensation. All opinions expressed are my own.

Ti-Fam: Witch Doctor's Daughter

2010-01-21T22:57:00.004-06:00

Benjamin and I decided that reading "Ti-Fam: Witch Doctor's Daughter" by Ruth Harner would be a good idea tonight since he is studying Haiti.
I'm telling you, this story is intriguing! My kids have all heard the story before, yet as Ben and I began reading, his teen-aged brothers immediately sat down to listen. Nathan was in the back of the house yelling "read louder so I can hear!" and soon came in to hear the story. Aaron would scold me when we'd look at the pictures, "let me see too!" Obviously, I'd forgotten exactly how captivating the story is. I would love to know if Ti-Fam has been aware of how far reaching her story has been.
They really should consider marketing the story in book form rather than just as a flash-card story, or better yet, make another book telling of the challenges they have faced during this current crisis. Hearing how God has used this crisis to bring others to Him, now that would be fascinating!

THANK YOU!

2010-01-19T21:05:00.007-06:00

We are deeply grateful for all who have committed to helping Benjamin in his efforts to raise money for Haiti. When he began, we thought it would be great for him to raise a few dollars. Now, he will be earning over $25 an hour for Ti-Fam's mission. Is that not amazing?!!? It is all because of you and your generosity and we thank you! There are even 5 children helping him, one is 3 years old. How awesome!!

Because of the response Benjamin has gotten, we've decided to allow him to have his own blog. Please follow his blog to see what he is reading, learning, or whatever else comes from his active 7 year old imagination. I will also be a guest blogger there to keep you informed. His blog is at http://benjamin-sonoftherighthand.blogspot.com/ . Feel free to share his blog with others who may be interested.

Tomorrow I will be listing first names of those who have made pledges on his blog. If I inadvertently miss you, please let me know. We would like to have a complete list of donations so that Ben will be encouraged. Also, if your blog is private, please e-mail and let me know who you are!

Ben is so excited - and we are too. THANK YOU!!!

Homeschool Help

2010-01-18T14:43:00.007-06:00

Note: The following is a blog by my 7 year old son, Benjamin.

This is what it looked like in Haiti before the earthquake. It looked better before the earthqake, but then after the earthquake it looked very bad.

After the earthquake, they are handing out plastic tents for the people to sleep and live in until they can get help. This is the Baptist Haiti Mission where Ti-Fam went.

Even after the earthquake, people were praising and thanking God for those who didn't die. These people had lost family members, moms and dads died, so the kids need help. Would you help me raise money so I can help them? I will be reading books one hour everyday so we can raise money for Haiti so the kids won't be lost and they will have people to take care of them and so they will have plenty of food to eat. Would you please help me by sponsoring me? You can pay so much for each book I read for the next 3 weeks. Or whatever you want to send. We will give the money to Baptist Haiti Mission. All of the money will go to help with the earthquake. Please pray every day for God to take care of every single person in Haiti, especially the kids that are hurt. Mom and Dads too for them to find their kids. The End

For those who are just beginning to read this blog, the story of Ti-Fam is in my previous blog. I would really appreciate you helping Benjamin in his project. Whether with a donation, or with words of encouragement. More information to follow later tonight. Thank you

Haiti

2010-01-13T23:47:00.008-06:00

As a young girl in Good News Club, I would sit mesmerized by the story of Ti-Fam. It is a true story of a girl in Haiti. Her father was a witch doctor and taught Ti-Fam to fear the "lies" of the Christians and his use of voodoo. Despite her fear, she and her mother listened to the missionary when they traveled to Port-Au-Prince. To hear that an all-powerful God loved her caused Ti-Fam to question her father's vindictive religion. Ti-Fam eventually accepted Christ after events, including a hurricane , led her to stay at the mission school. God interceded for her in miraculous ways and eventually she was able to share God's love with her father.

Last year I had the privilege of teaching this story to kids in Good News Club and once again my heart went out to the people of Haiti.

Unfortunately, I don't have cable now, so have not been able to follow the story of the earthquake as closely as I would like to, but my heart is breaking for these people! It's funny that as I was sending an e-mail to my sister about the mission's efforts during this crisis, she too was busy blogging about her memories and thoughts on Haiti. She quoted Joel Rosenberg: "Scriptures tell us in Matthew 24 and Luke 21 that terrible earthquakes and other natural disasters will occur in the “last days”….things will get worse, but this is a catastrophe of biblical proportions….may followers of Jesus Christ respond with prayer and practical assistance."

Right now, my family is short on funds, but I am planning even now how to help. This may become a family and homeschooling endeavor to aid the actual mission that I learned about as a young girl. If I am able, I will be blogging about that effort and I ask you to follow along and perhaps help. Please pray for the people in Haiti. Pray for wisdom and strength for the missionaries that are there. Pray for God's peace to overtake the chaos. Pray that through this, God will be known.

2009-12-21T22:01:00.004-06:00

I highly recommend that you spend some time this holiday season watching this video on Youtube.com. There are 5 videos to complete the talk by Louis Giglio on How Great is Our God.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKMw1ndl-EY

The Language of Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

2009-12-16T21:37:00.007-06:00

Dr. Emerson Eggerichs' book is based upon the verse Ephesians 5:33 : "However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." He writes that wives hear and see in pink (the language of love) and husbands see and hear in blue (language of respect). He states that couples are sending each other messages in 'code' and they won't be able to crack that code until they learn to listen in their spouse's language. The book gives ample examples on how to crack the code and improve communication in a marriage.

I really wanted to like this book but was very disappointed. There are some truths hidden in the book but you have to dig through a lot to get to them. I found the book to be VERY repetitive and tedious. His use of acronyms was excessive and annoying. Dr. Eggerich began referring to his first book "Love and Respect" quite often which felt more like an ad trying to sell that book rather than an attempt to teach. The book might be good for a young couple who have not received any teaching on this subject, if they can wade through it, but I think there are probably better books out there on this subject. This book could have easily been cut in half (or more!) and then would have been much more effective in keep the reader's attention. http://brb.thomasnelson.com/

The Little Engine that could

2009-11-02T11:06:00.011-06:00

I haven't blogged in a long while. Man! what have I missed? I didn't blog about Nathan's birthday, Sarah's birthday, Benjamin's birthday, Easter, Summer, shoot, I even have pictures still in my camera from last winter that were never posted! Guess I'd better get with it! Maybe I should learn how to download all those photos.... I'm like that well known little engine. I think I can, I think I can...

I have enrolled to be a book reviewer, so if I'm approved, you'll be seeing some book reviews on here as well. I hope I make it - it sounds really interesting. I think I can, I think I can.....

I've been helping my mother-in-law in dealing with Alzheimer's, so you'll probably see some of my struggles as we deal with that disease and how to handle her situation. I think I can, I think I can....

I'm still homeschooling, so maybe I'll blog more about that. Friendly Fridays need to be started back up. I really want to teach my kids to reach out to others. Maybe we'll limit it to once a month just so it isn't so intimidating. I think I can, I think I can...

I'm teaching a children's Bible class on Tuesdays after school and helping with one on Mondays. We've had quite a bit of drama lately, so surely I'll blog some about that. I think I can, I think I can....

God's been working on me and my "ability" to manipulate, so I could share a little about what I'm leaning. I think I can, I think I can....

With the holidays just around the corner, it's a perfect time to get started.... I THINK I CAN!

I WON!!!

2009-10-25T15:22:00.005-05:00

I NEVER win anything...until now! I won the book "The Reluctant Cowgirl" by Christine Lynxwiler from Cathy Bryant at WordVessel.
Hip-Hip-Horray!!!
Cathy is the author of the book "Texas Roads". You can read the first chapter of her book here. Mark led me to her site (she was in the Wayland band with him), and I've enjoyed reading her blog the last couple of weeks. She is also the proud grandmother of a new grandson, Harrison. (congratulations, Cathy!)
Thank you, Cathy, for the book. I'm looking forward to reading it and your book as well!

Update

2009-03-27T14:14:00.001-05:00

Sarah's MRI has been moved to Monday due to the weather. It will be on Monday @ 2 p.m.
We'd appreciate your prayers!

Science

2009-02-27T13:34:00.002-06:00

Homeschoolers! I just found this site and thought I'd share it. It has a big list of simple science experiments to use. I haven't looked at the entire site, but it looks like it might have lots of good things for teaching science principles. http://www.sciencefairadventure.com/Default.aspx

Give-Me-More Barbecued Ribs

2009-02-24T20:30:00.005-06:00

Becky gave me a "Fix-It and Forget-It" cookbook for Christmas. We've been taking turns choosing a recipe to make and tonight was Aaron's night. The results were a LOT better than I expected (I'd have never thought to cook ribs in a crock pot!). They were called Give-Me-More Barbecued Ribs, and since I found a package of ribs at 40% off, we tried them out. :-)

Makes: 6 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Ideal slow cooker size: 6 quart

4 lbs. pork ribs

1/2 cup brown sugar

12-oz. jar chili sauce

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. hot sauce

1. Place ribs in slow cooker

2. Combine remaining ingredients. Pour half of sauce over ribs.

3. Cover. Cook on low 8 - 10 hours.

4. Serve with remaining sauce.

I used plain mustard because that's what I had, and I used more hot sauce. Also, our ribs were tender and meat literally falling off the bone after 6 hours, so 8 to 10 hours may be too long. This was good, but you could just as easily use a bottle of your favorite Barbecue sauce.

Can you believe...

2009-02-18T21:26:00.006-06:00

...Scott is 18?!!? His birthday was the 13th, I'm just slow at posting this month. While I was in labor the nurses kept telling me that if I'd wait a couple of hours he'd be a Valentine baby. (easy for them to say!!)However, I knew that boys wouldn't want heart themed birthdays every year, so I spared him the pain of pink hearts and me the pain of waiting. Of course I didn't know he was a boy yet....but it all worked out-right?
He hates having his picture made, so I spared him that pain as well and used one from China. I still want to know what that shocked look was all about! His big plans for his birthday this year included a tattoo, but that hasn't happened yet and I'm waiting with bated breath to see what transpires.
Scott you are a son any parent would be proud of. You have a servant's heart, willing to help in almost any situation, you're giving and caring. You've carried the names of your grandfathers with an integrity that would make them proud! I love you and am praying for God's richest blessings in your life as you step into new experiences this year. I am excited to see what God has in store for you! I love you. Happy Birthday!

computer problems

2009-02-11T19:25:00.002-06:00

The charger on my laptop isn't working and my battery is down to 47%. So, I may not be able to get on for awhile......I'll miss you!

Prayer: part 1

2009-02-08T21:24:00.031-06:00

The definition of prayer from Noah Webster's 1828 American Dictionary:

"1. In worship, a solemn address to the Supreme Being, consisting of adoration, or an expression of our sense of God's glorious perfections, confession of our sins, supplication for mercy and forgiveness, intercession for blessings on others, and thanksgiving, or an expression of gratitude to God for his mercies and benefits. A prayer however may consist of a single petition, and it may be extemporaneous, written or printed."

From the Encarta Dictionary on my Microsoft Office today:

"Prayer: 1. A spoken or unspoken address to God, a deity, or a saint. It may express praise, thanksgiving, confession, or a request for something such as help or somebody's well-being."

Wow! Am I the only one who sees a discrepancy in these two definitions or am I making a mountain out of a molehill? Maybe the difference between the two definitions is a portrayal of our times. How do I look upon God now? The way I pray could be a good gauge of how I view God. We had a guest speaker at church this morning who said that he thought that a lot of our youth today saw God as a little friend they could put in their pocket and pull out as needed to fulfill a need or help with a problem and then put Him back into their pocket until the next need arose. Interestingly, the speaker also made the comment that the reason the youth see God in this light is because we as parents have fallen down on our responsibility to teach about God's sovereignty and that the youth have seen us treat God as that little friend in our pocket. (See Mark's blog below...) He wasn't actually speaking on prayer but on revival. He was pointing out what is missing in the youth's understanding of God to bring about revival and how most big revivals have begun with youth (Jr. High up to college age). Since God has been working on me with some struggles I've had about prayer lately, what the speaker said caught my attention.

There is one thing that I feel is note worthy here.

As thorough as Noah Webster's definition is, I think he's still missing something simple and basic. As a child I was taught that prayer is simply a conversation with God. For a conversation to be complete it should include both talking and listening on my part. Listening for that still, small voice. God doesn't need to appear to me personified in great natural forces -- though he certainly can do this -- but He may also reveal himself directly, softly, and personally. I need to be listening closely for in that still, small voice God may be trying to quietly, powerfully and passionately communicate with me.

USA Drifting Away - Guest Blogger Mark

2009-02-05T19:43:00.005-06:00

Last night at prayer meeting at church, our pastor mentioned that last week the group that was present "dragged me out of my closet of seclusion" concerning the recent election and how the US has and is drifting away from it's Christian roots. As I pondered all the responses from the pastor and the others, I have been thinking on it all day long. There were many different answers and views expressed with the pastor's being "it boils down to a Christian world view vs. a secular world view" and he went into what the Christian and world views entail. I agree with him on this, but feel it is more than just a view. I feel that a great deal of what is occurring is a result of us as Christian parents and members of the Church failing in teaching our children the truths of God as we should.

As I began work this morning, I was reading in Psalms 78. The first 8 verses kind of sum up the whole situation. They are as follows.

1 My people, hear my instruction; listen to what I say.
2 I will declare wise sayings; I will speak mysteries from the past —
3 things we have heard and known and that our fathers have passed down to us.
4 We must not hide them from their children, but must tell a future generation the praises of the LORD, His might, and the wonderful works He has performed.
5 He established a testimony in Jacob and set up a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children
6 so that a future generation, children yet to be born, might know. They were to rise and tell their children
7 so that they might put their confidence in God and not forget God's works, but keep His commandments.
8 Then they would not be like their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation, a generation whose heart was not loyal and whose spirit was not faithful to God. (HCSB)

Too many in past, and this current generation have failed to teach their children the truths and teaching of God. As a result we are reaping younger generations that have turned completely away from God or at the least ascribe to 2 Timothy 4:3

" 3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, "

Until we in the church decide to follow God's teachings and pass them on to our children we will continue to see events unfold as we have seen the last 20-30 years.

Mark (Sandra's husband)

Homeschoolers!

2009-01-22T05:37:00.000-06:00

I just found this homeschool freebie "wholesome childhood" site and thought someone else might be interested as well. They offer a free download each day for homeschool use. I looked back at things they've offered in the past and it appears that they do a good job of covering all age groups, from pre-school on. It looks as if they even offer some old "classics" from "years gone by"(1800 and 1900's!) that might be fun to just look at!

Freebie

2009-01-13T23:25:00.006-06:00

I found this on the Money Saving Mom site....

"Each month, ChristianAudio.com offers one free audio book download. I'm so
excited because this month's audio download is one of my very favorite books. In
fact, this book would definitely list up there with five of the top books that
have most influenced my life.
The book? Oswald Chambers: Abandoned to God.
Go here to get your free download."

I haven't listened to the book yet, but decided to try the download. They didn't ask for a credit card number, so I felt safe in that respect. I'm not sure how long the offer is valid, but I thought I'd post it in case anyone is interested. The coupon code is JAN2009

Exposed!

2009-01-12T12:37:00.006-06:00

I was cleaning this morning and bent over to pick up something. Scott told me I had a rip in my jeans.....sure enough I reached back and felt a 2 or 3 inch rip by my pocket. It looked like it had been cut, so I must have caught it on something. I'd worn them in public all morning going to the Dr.'s office and then to Wal-Mart. OH GREAT. How long has that hole been there?!!? Don't you just hate that feeling? Going shopping soon!

Sanctuary Challenge

2009-01-11T18:52:00.005-06:00

As I've been reflecting on the Sanctuary Challenge God has shown me that not only do I need to stop cursing my body but my SELF as well. I'm always "second guessing" myself.
One of the things I've done (among many others) is blog about something and never post it, deciding it sounds "dumb" or "stupid". God showed me that I've been more concerned about what others think rather than just being thankful that He made me the way I am. I went back to all the blogs I didn't post to look at them, and discovered I'd deleted all but one. So, in the spirit of repenting for cursing myself and wanting to change my habits, I'm posting it below. And even as I do that, I'm having to stop myself from apologizing for its length or its content and just "let it be".....

Emotions based on Truth!

2009-01-11T18:45:00.003-06:00

Sorry this is so long, it's just that I think things through by typing them it out, and I'm too lazy to edit it to a short post! :-)

Becky had an interesting post on her blog called "Heavenly Emotions". It got me to thinking and wondering. She asked some good questions: What will perfect emotions look like in heaven? How will we express them there? and How does that relate to how I should express them here on earth?

You know, the only emotion I've ever thought of having in heaven is joy. But, it seems obvious that we'll have others . Even Christ showed emotion while on earth! I'm thinking of Him throwing out the money changers in the temple(Matt. 21:12) and Him weeping @ Lazarus' grave(John 11). Jesus felt compassion for those he healed, and just think of the celebrations He attended (wedding, visiting disciples and others) certainly he felt joy! My mind has a hard time getting around the concept of the Trinity - three in One, but since Jesus had emotions, then God does too. In fact, the Bible attributes many emotions to God including some that we would call "negative" emotions. ANGER(Psalm 90:11), JEALOUSY(Exodus 20:5), HATRED (he hates divorce...Proverbs 6:17-19 lists seven things that God hates) These are just a few I found. The Bible tells also us WE can GRIEVE the Holy Spirit(Ephesians 4:30). On the other hand, there are also the "positive" emotions: LOVE , COMPASSION (my favorite example Psalm 103:13), PEACE (Phil. 4:7, Christ is even called the Prince of Peace in Isa. 9:6), and one of my most loved chapters in the Bible says that God DELIGHTS and REJOICES (Isaiah 62:4,5).

Surely in heaven, we'll feel the positive emotions listed above as well as appreciation, maybe curiosity, excitement, confidence (Wow - I like thinking we'll have that one! ...is that an emotion??), cheerfulness...help me think here...what else? All of these expressed w/ self-control (like Becky said, no drama queens in heaven!) Come to think of it, some of the fruits of the Spirit are what we'd consider "emotional". Love , joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I'd never even considered that before I wrote it - ha! I really don't know where I'm going with all of this, I'm just trying to think it all through for myself. But, IF God is using our emotions in the process of maturing us as Christians (to have the fruit of the Spirit), is it possible that ALL of our emotions are a GIFT from God??? (Or at least maybe they are a tool used by God.) It's just what we sometimes do with them that makes them a sin. Sadness, depression, grief, disappointment, fear: God can use those emotions FOR my good if I allow Him to. After all He promises that ALL things work together for good for those who love God (Romans 8:28). If nothing else, He uses them to draw me to Him for His comfort, healing and protection. Anger, jealousy, and pride are or can be bad because I'm focused on my selfish desires and wanting my way instead of God's, but even those emotions are used to draw me back to obedience in Him and His desires for my life: To help me mature and see other's needs and use my experiences to encourage and help them. Not to mention the fact that He can use them to teach us and others a little bit about forgiveness. Anyway, you get the idea, it may be a negative emotion with a positive outcome. Yep, God uses our emotions as a tool to help us develop a stronger relationship with Him and with other people. ( I know you're thinking DUH! but it's not something I've never really considered before!)

I know when I'm dealing with the negative emotions and situations, God often leads me to Philippians 4:8

"Finally, brethern, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

I believe that in perfection (heaven), our emotions will be based upon the Truth, honesty, justice, purity, loveliness. He is going to make all things new - even our emotions! There will be no need for the negative! There will be no sin to cause hatred or anger, there will be perfect love so no need for us to be jealous of others, and on and on.....so maybe that is the beginning of the answer to what our emotions will look like in heaven - they will look like TRUTH. I can't wait to see all the ways we will express them! I know we'll sing, praise God, worship, ....and more!

So, if emotions are a gift or tool of God's, why do I hide from my emotions so often or try to deny them? Maybe because now, here on earth they aren't always based on truth! And, quite honestly sometimes they hurt...A LOT and I don't like hurting!!

James 1:2-6 says "Consider it pure JOY, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind."

Wait a minute, God! Really? Joy in the facing of trials? I've led a blessed life. I've had very few trials compared to others. My children are all healthy, I have a husband who loves me, wonderful family and church. It is hard for me to imagine JOY in the face of death and tragedy.

But His Word says that the testing (right along with all the emotions involved) develops perseverance and perseverance develops maturity. Perseversance (from the dictionary):
Steady persistence in adhering to a course of action, a belief, or a purpose; steadfastness (in spite of what my emotions are!) Faithfulness, doggedness. The Joy comes from seeing the prize ahead - the lessons learned, the maturity gained, the fruit harvested! Maybe we won't really feel the emotion of Joy during the trial but should be simply trusting God that it's coming!

Hebrews 12:2 says that Christ considered his trial joy as well.

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

My emotions on earth are based on my view of what is happening or upon what I want. I'm so selfish! Even if I have been wrongfully treated and my "rights" or "feelings" have been violated, I should have submitted my "rights" and desires to God long ago. And sometimes when I'm hurting, I'm not focused on the hope I have in Christ. Ecclesiastes 3 says that there is a time to weep, laugh, mourn, dance, heal, embrace, love, hate...that covers a lot of emotions! Maybe, just maybe, it's okay to FEEL them. Maybe a picture of a strong Christian is one who isn't afraid of their emotions, but simply trusts God with them. (Endures to get to the joy.) I guess that's what I should be striving for!

How does all of this relate to how I should express emotions here on earth?? First of all I should be sure that before I react emotionally to something, that it is based on truth. I need to focus on what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, good, virtuous,and praiseworthy. I need to be renewed in my mind! I need to intentionally control my thought life and then my emotions will hopefully follow. If I'm mad at my husband for taking money out of my billfold (ahem...), the TRUTH is I don't have a right to - he works 12 hrs. a day and earns that money so he has more right to it than I ever did (not to mention that it all belongs to God anyway)! So, if my emotion isn't based on truth, I need to seek forgiveness for over-reacting, or better yet, listen to God's still voice BEFORE I express the emotion outwardly and turn it over to God before I NEED Mark's forgiveness. (blushing...)

Secondly, I need to learn perseverance. I need to practice patience - wait for the joy!
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Heb. 12:1)

God has really been working on me lately and trying to show me the power in praising Him. The Bible tells me countless times to praise - for a reason. There really is power behind praise. If I am focused on Him and His attributes, then certainly my emotions are more likely to follow the path of Truth! To react to a situation with the correct emotion comes from keeping my thoughts focused on the Truth- Christ Himself .

One last thought. God didn't have to experience "negative" emotions before creation. Sin is what caused that and yet knowing what grief we would cost Him, He CHOSE to have those emotions instead of hiding from them or trying to avoid them like I do!

Hebrews 4:15 "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin."

You know it's true love when....

2009-01-08T21:00:00.007-06:00

...He chooses YOUR favorite meal for HIS birthday! So, tonight Mark had meatloaf, black eyed peas (his choice) and salad. Then - HIS FAVORITE- coconut pie for his birthday "cake".

Happy Birthday Mark!! I love you!

Mom's Coconut Pie:

Pie Crust

1/3 heaping cup shortening

1 1/2 cup flour

1 tsp. salt

cold water

Cut shortening into flour and salt and add cold water to correct consistency. Roll out and bake.

Pie Filling

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 egg yolks

4 Tbsp. corn starch

3 cups milk

1 tsp. vanilla

Cook until thickened and pour into cooked crust.

Meringue

Beat 3 egg whites

with 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar and

1/4 cup sugar

Bake until golden brown.

Bracelets?

2009-01-08T00:31:00.007-06:00

We were memorizing the verse James 4:6 in Good News Club (children's Bible class) on Tuesday. Mom had the kids saying the verse over and over to memorize it and then having them "recite" the verse. One shy little boy named Taylor in my class (Kindergarten to First grade) began quoting the verse...."God resisteth the proud but giveth bracelets unto the humble." I can't help but wonder exactly what kind of bracelet was he thinking God gives!??!

Mmm, Mmm, Good!

2009-01-05T20:59:00.006-06:00

Sarah discovered a new recipe and after digging the recipe card out of the trash can (oops), we decided to make it tonight. This is really good! I'd be all "pioneer-womanish" and post pictures if I'd thought to take photos before my brood scarfed up all the food. Really - even the youngest son ate it! Now, that's success.

Chicken Romano (serves 4)
Ingredients:
3 Tbsp. salt-free seasoned dried breadcrumbs *
3 Tbsp. grated Romano cheese
4 thin-sliced boneless chicken cutlets
1 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 (14 1/2 oz.) can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, liquid reserved
3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
2 Tbsp. sliced pitted Kalamata olives*
1 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes*
3 Tbsp. coarsely chopped fresh basil leaves*

1. Combine bread crumbs and cheese in shallow dish. Dredge the chicken pieces in crumb mixture to coat on both sides.
2. Heat 1 1/2 tsp. oil in 12 inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook half of chicken until golden and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Transfer to plate; cover with foil to keep warm. Repeat.
3. Add drained tomatoes, garlic, olives, vinegar, red pepper and 1/3 cup of tomato liquid. Cook two minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and discard garlic. Stir in basil. Spoon sauce over cutlets and serve.

*Our changes: We doubled the recipe for my family, using chicken breasts that we flattened. I don't think our bread crumbs were salt-free and we used plain ole' black olives. We didn't have the red pepper flakes, so, those were omitted. Also, even though we doubled the recipe, we didn't double the amount of basil (ours was freeze dried and supposed to be equivalent to fresh) and it was plenty. Let me know if you try it out. Enjoy.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!

2008-12-24T08:21:00.004-06:00

I hope that you have a very blessed and Merry Christmas. I'm praying that each of you will meet Christ in new and exciting ways during this season!

Merry Christmas from the Langfords.

A peace of my mind

2008-12-21T02:00:00.003-06:00

Note: This was written at 2 a.m. so if it makes no sense at all, you know why! If you ever see me with a caffeine drink, do me a favor and pry it out of my hands!!

Philippians 2:5-11 " Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus"... one commentator said that this should actually read :"In your relationships with one another, have the same attitude of mind Christ Jesus had/has." I'm not supposed to simply imitate Christ in what I DO, but to actually have the same mind set and attitudes of Christ . What would happen to our world if the church, IF I, obeyed this verse in totality? Verse 6 tells us that Jesus didn't exploit or use His son ship to God for His own advantage. Instead of glory He chose to make himself like nothing, He took on all of the limitations of being human (including being a baby - dirty diapers and all!) to help others - to help me! Instead of grasping to be seen as equal to God, He chose to take the role of a slave. Remember how he willingly washed the disciple's feet? (John 13) He didn't live in pride but in humbleness with a servant's heart. The result? Eventually EVERY knee will bow and tongue confess - God has and will give Christ the highest honor.

What if, instead of giving people "a piece of my mind", I strive to help them have a "PEACE of mind"? What if I had Christ's attitude and mind set?

Father,
Renew my mind! Develop in me a Christ-like attitude and mind set. Help me to see others as You see them.

Celebrate!

2008-12-18T13:00:00.004-06:00

“I bring you good news of GREAT JOY that will be for all the people.” Luke 2:10 (NIV)

Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth; break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises. Psalm 98:4

Joy is one of the focus topics of Christ's coming into the world! Rejoice! - Is that a command??

I have an opinion about parties: I think that God loves them! (DUH!)
In fact, the Bible tells us that they "throw" a party in heaven everytime someone turns to God. There is celebration in heaven!

As I've heard people talking about Chritmas and their plans, I've heard an attitude of "I've got to get through this" or "I've got too much to do!" I know I'm guilty of this. I get so caught up in what has to be done that I lose sight of the joy of the season. I feel like I need some ideas on how to celebrate this year - to really enjoy the season.

So, tell me, what are you doing to REALLY celebrate this Christmas?

Friendly Friday Flops

2008-12-17T22:00:00.001-06:00

Just so you know, we haven't forgotten Friendly Fridays, we've just flopped!

Our plan a couple of weeks ago was to go to "Grandma's" house and clean her house for the holidays, but....she wouldn't let us come over! LOL!! I think it has something to do with the Alzheimer's. We had told her a week before that we'd be coming, and she was SO excited about it. But on that day, she was making stew and with the Alzheimer's she can only focus on one thing at a time, so she didn't want us to clean. That or she just didn't want us there. :-) We may try that one again later.

Last week I had the flu (or something like it) and didn't want to expose anyone to that, so we were putting a gift box together to send to our favorite soldier in Iraq. (Aaron's idea). The thing is, by the time we got it all put together, it was too late to mail it!! He'll be home in January so, we decided to wrap the box up and give it to him when he gets home. SIGH
Good intentions.....(sorry, Erick!!)

Today we'll be doing something to make up for LAST Friday, and then this Friday we are planning on going back to Living Water, if they'll let us come! We'll update you later on our project for today!

Bad Joke...

2008-12-07T16:23:00.001-06:00

What did Santa say when he was stuck in the chimney upside down?
!OH !OH !OH
(get it??....sorry, couldn't resist)

Favorite verse

2008-12-06T19:25:00.007-06:00

My favorite verse this week in Psalm 27 is verse 8: (New Living Translation)

My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming."

Why say any more when that says it all?

First Friendly Friday!

2008-11-24T09:50:00.005-06:00

Guest blogger: Aaron

This Friendly Friday we went to Living Water in Borger. I helped pass out groceries to people in need for Thanksgiving.
First, as people came in I took pictures and Benjamin passed around coloring books for the kids. Aunt Becky made sure everything was running the way it was supposed to. Matt & Sheri Cox led the music. They also led the music in my camp two years ago! Uncle Andy preached a sermon about how to be saved. Then we went out back and put groceries on the the table to give to the people. Mr. Gib kept bragging on me to other people. I liked working with him.
It felt good to help others. Their faces looked very grateful for our help. I loved it, it was so much fun! We plan to go back at Christmas time and help again.

Guest blogger: Benjamin
"It was fun. I didn't find very much kids, but there were some. I passed out books and crayons. And there were some kids though that I handed out books to and some were too small to be coloring but I didn't care so I just handed them coloring books with the crayons. When it was time to go it was very cold. When we got into our car my Mom decided to give Becky some books back and all that stuff. I hope you go to heaven so I can meet you there and know your name. Live happy. I hope you believe in Jesus." :-)