Life on the Edge

Across the Wide River by Stephanie Reed

2011-08-20T18:28:00.000-05:00

About the Author:
During her childhood, Stephanie Reed’s family would often pass through Ripley on their way to her grandparents’ home. The signs she read about the Rankin House were what prompted her to write this story.
Synopsis:
Lowery Rankin has seen the horrors of slavery. He has witnessed friends beaten because of the color of their skin. He risked his life helping refugees get to freedom. He feels he is being called by God to fulfill this mission but at times feels as though he is a failure in his life. He acts with courage when he helps a refugee but feels he does not show courage when confronted about his beliefs about slavery. Throughout the book Lowery battles to conquer his greatest fear. He must learn to speak up with conviction about his stance on this issue that means so much to him.
My Reaction:
Ms.Reed has written a novel of the pre-civil war era that plunges the reader into the depths of this era. She successfully captures the drama and dangers that are rampant in this period of American History. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about this time in our history.
Disclaimer:
I received this book from Kregel Publications in exchange for a review. I was not required to write a positive review only that the review is honest. The opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.

What’s It Like To Be Married To Me by Linda Dillow

2011-06-01T23:43:00.001-05:00

About the Author:
Linda Dillow is the author of numerous books including the best-selling Creative Counterpart and Intimate Issues (with Lorraine Pintus), as well as a popular speaker at women's conferences around the world.
Linda lives in Monument Colorado with her husband, Jody. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren.

Synopsis:
Linda Dillow has written the best " marriage handbook" for women that I have found. She has a guide that encourages women to look into the mirror that shows what we can become.
She uses biblical principles, Anecdotes from women across the country, as well as, sharing her experiences in a 47 year marriage.
This book is a book every woman should read. It should be on everyone's bookshelf.

My reflections:
I was intrigued by this book since I heard an interview with the author. I never stopped to think about this question before. When I did stop and think about it – I really began to see a lot of fallacies I've been holding onto. The author asks the difficult questions that really hits the bull's-eye of self-examination. Some of the questions were harder to answer that others but all of them started me on a journey of self reflection. I am taking the insights to heart and am slowly putting them into action in my life. My marriage is not reached the “aha!” moments where everything is rosy but I do see gradual improvements daily.

This review is part of the Amazon VINE program. The opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.

Shattered by Melody Carlson

2011-05-30T22:00:00.000-05:00

About the Author:

Melody Carlson is the best-selling author of more than 150 books including the TrueColor series. She has won various awards for her writing, including the Gold Medallion and the Rita. Melody currently lives in the beautiful Oregon Cascades mountains with her husband.

Synopsis:

Everyone keeps secrets. Everyone sneaks out of the house at night. But the night Cleo Nielsen left home against her mother's instructions, started her on a nightmare that threatened to destroy her and the one she loved. Because of her disobedience she could not tell anyone her secret. To ease the pain of her guilt she turned to drugs to push the events of that night away.

Through her aunt Cleo found the love and forgiveness that only comes through God.

My thoughts:
Melody Carlson writes books that addresses sensitive issues that face the youth of today. Her books and show readers the world were promises of broken and life is not always fair. Her books will strike a chord in the reader's hearts. Her characters are credible and her issues are real.

I received this book from NavPress in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.

The World is a Puzzle

2011-05-29T16:43:00.001-05:00

There was a man who had a little boy that he loved very much. Every day after work the man would come home and play with the little boy. He would always spend all of his extra time playing with the little boy.

One night, while the man was at work, he realized that he had extra work to do for the evening, and that he would be able to play with the little boy. But, he wanted to be able to give the boy something to keep them busy. So, looking around his office he saw magazine with a large map of the world on the cover. He got an idea. He removed the map, and then patiently toward up into small pieces. Then he put all the pieces in his coat pocket,

When he got home, the little boy came running to him and was ready to play. The man explained that he had extra work to do and couldn”t play just now, but he let the little boy to the dining room’, and taking out all the pieces of the map, he spread them on the table. He explained that it was a map of the world, and that by the time he could put it back together, his extra work would be finished, and I could both play. Surely this would keep the child busy for hours, he thought.

About half an hour later the boy came to the man and said,”Okay, it's finished. Can we play now?'”

The man was surprised, saying " that's impossible. Let's go say." And sure enough, there was the picture the world, all put together, every piece in its place.

The man said," that's amazing! How did you do that?" The boy said," it was simple. On the back of the page was a picture of a man. When I put the man together the whole world fell in the place."

Author unknown

The Final Summit by Andy Andrews

2011-05-19T15:48:00.002-05:00

About the author:
Andy Andrews has become one of America's most influential people. He is a best-selling author and an in demand speaker. He has been invited to speak by four presidents and at military bases worldwide.
He lives in Orange Beach Alabama with his wife Polly and their two sons.

Synopsis:
Andy Andrews has done it again! He has written another book that is a real page turner. In this sequel to the Traveler’s Gift we are again introduced to David Ponder. Ponder is now 74 years old, his wife, Ellen, has died and he is now alone.
Just as he thinks his life has sunk to its lowest point he is contacted by Gabriel, the Archangel. He is needed to lead “The Final Summit” to save humanity. Together with the help of fellow travelers Anne Frank, Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, Joshua Chamberlain, and hundreds of other travelers, he must come up with the one solution to save mankind. Time is running out and the solution must be found quickly to avoid the catastrophe that will befall humanity.
In this book, as well as its predecessor The Traveler’s Gift, Andrews explores the principles that some of our greatest leaders have used on their way to success. I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of The Final of the Summit from BookSneeze in exand change for an open and honest review. The opinions in this review are solely mine.

2011-05-14T20:55:00.001-05:00

Thank you all so much for following along with the Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. I pray you laughed, cried and were touched by the translucent stories of real life written by new moms, stepmoms, grandmas, adoptive moms, and moms without moms. Iridescent reality. And how poignant that the translucent nacre which coats the sand stuck inside an oyster’s shell is called Mother of Pearl. Mothers surround children with their love and with God’s love so they can grow in grace. I hope you'll join us this December for the third annual 12 Pearls of Christmas series.

AND ... thanks too, to all of you who entered to win the beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. I'm thrilled to announce that the winner is ...

Jennifer (heavensent1)!

Jennifer, please email

amy@pearlgirls.info with your mailing address.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls

™, please visit

www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. The purpose of Pearl Girls is to connect women so that together, we can make a difference in the world. All proceeds of the Pearl Girls book go in full to two charities:

Wings (women in need growing stronger) to help fund a safe house in the Chicago suburbs and to

Hands of Hope to help build wells for schoolchildren in Uganda. Consider purchasing a copy of

Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the

Pearl Girls™ products to help support Pearl Girls.

Please stop by the

Pearl Girls blog and connect with us there.

Coming Back Stronger by Drew Brees and Chris Fabry

2011-05-13T21:49:00.001-05:00

About the authors:

Drew Brees was MVP winning quarterback for the New Orleans Saints in the 2009 Super Bowl. I a 2001 graduate of Purdue University, Drew was a two-time Heisman finalist at led the Boilermakers to a big 10 championship and a Rose Bowl appearance during the 2000 season.
He takes pride in his professional success, but takes even more pride in his faith, family, and community achievements. He lives with his wife and son in New Orleans.

Chris Fabry has published more than sixty-five books. He also hosts a radio program, Chris Fabry Live, which airs each weekday on Moody Radio. He lives with his wife and children in Arizona.

Synopsis:
That which will not kill you will make you stronger.

Drew is open and honest about his adversities in life. He has endured great hardships like his shoulder injury, dysfunctional childhood, and the loss of his mother through suicide. It shows through examples from his own life that with God all things are possible. He did not give up when others told him he should. He kept his faith in God. Drew believes that adversities offer opportunities to accomplish great things in life. This story should motivate us all to keep on keeping on.

This book was provided through Tyndale publishers in exchange for an open and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR MOTHER

2011-05-10T09:41:00.001-05:00

Enjoy the answers given by elementary school-age children to the following questions:

Why were mothers created?
She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.

Is anything about your mom perfect?
Yes, it must be her children.

What kind of little girl was your mom?
I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.

Describe the world's greatest mom.
She'd always be smiling and keep her opinions to herself.

Why did your mom marry your dad?
My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
Moms work at work and work at home, and dads just have to work at work.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.

What did your mom needs to know about your dad before she married him?
She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer? Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say no to drugs and yes to chores?

I found this on the Internet and think it expresses children's opinions of their moms very well.

2011-05-08T13:14:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.

AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

Each Life is Unique by Lucinda Secrest McDowell“God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. II Peter 1.3 (NIV)Moms, God wants you to know that He has given you everything you need for life --- your unique life. He does not plan to give you what you might need to live the life of your best friend, or your neighbor, or even your favorite mother-model. No, God has called you to the life that He planned. I suspect that for most of us, it didn’t turn out to be the life we thought it might be… so long ago when we were young and dreaming of ‘growing up.’On Mother’s Day I often recall my own dreams to one day be a mother. I grew up playing with dolls and looking to my own Mama as a model for that particular role in life. However, by the time I reached my thirties I was still not a mother! God did, however, have a plan. It just wasn’t what I imagined. My own unique life would find me becoming a mother through the adoption of my first three children who were ages 9, 7 and 4; and then much later giving birth to our fourth child. Of course I was shocked when God revealed this to me, but I was ecstatic as well. It’s as though I could hear Him saying, “Well, you’re not getting any younger so I’m just going to just give you a jump start with three at one time!”A huge blessing! A huge adjustment! A joy and a struggle. Change is often like that, isn’t it? We finally get what we want then we have to deal with it. May I just offer a bit of advice if you just got a great answer to prayer, but perhaps not in the way or form you imagined? Just receive it. Embrace it. And be willing to move forward into a new paradigm for your life. So what if you’re not like all the other mothers you know? So what if you’re not like your own mother? So what if your family unit is different? I guarantee God has a plan.Not only did he want me

to embrace my own story, but He called me as a mother to do perhaps one of the most important tasks of all --- to nurture my children to live their own unique lives. Not for me to try and squeeze them into what I hoped and dreamed they would be. Not for me to try and live my life through them. But to recognize how God made them, gifted them, and called them to their own special place. All of my 4 kids are different from one another. Let’s take sports, for instance: I have one child who wins gold medals in international tennis competition, one who is a born equestrian, another who competes nationally in obstacle course shooting matches, and yet another who manages to dance onstage in 3 inch heels, do cartwheels and splits while singing at the same time. Now, honestly, I do none of these things. And yet they do. I don’t remember placing my order with God for these things. But I do remember when that tennis player turned 9 years old and I enrolled him in Special Olympics for the first time and how it changed his life… and ours. I remember getting a counselor job at an exclusive summer camp so that my daughter could take English riding classes. I remember being a Cub Scout leader (even though I knew nothing about boys) so that son could one day become an Eagle scout and pursue his love of the great outdoors. And yes, I remember enrolling my preschooler in dance lessons. Later when all the little girls were scared to go on stage for the recital, she exclaimed that she had endured a whole year of lessons just so she could go on stage. Don’t compare yourself to someone else. And don’t live vicariously through your favorite reality show star. Live your own story. And Moms, raise your kids to embrace the unique life God has for them.Remember, He has given us everything we need for life!Lucinda Secrest McDowell, a graduate of Gordon-Conwell Seminary, is the author of 10 books including “Role of a Lifetime,” “Amazed by Grace,” “Spa for the Soul” and the new Bible Study “Fit and Healthy Summer.” She is an international conference speaker and enjoys being a Pearl Girl from “Sunnyside” - her home in a New England village. Visit Cindy at www.EncouragingWords.net

2011-05-07T16:43:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.

AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

And to all you MOMS out there! Happy Mother's Day!

What is a Grandmother? by Suzanne Woods Fisher“A grandmother is a little bit parent, a little bit teacher, and a little bit best friend.” Amish proverbI arrived late in the night in Rhode Island, anxious to meet my two-day-old grandson, Blake, after a full day of flying. My daughter and son-in-law had just returned home from the hospital and felt like they had been in a train wreck. There was stuff everywhere. Already, the needs of this little eight-pound bundle of joy were enormous: an all-terrain stroller, plenty of diapers, onesies, spit-up rags, an assortment of pacifiers to try out until he found the ideal one. And he was perfect. I know, I know. “Every mother crow thinks her own little crow is the blackest.” But this little dark eyed, dark haired boy really was perfect. I spent the next seven days (and nights) getting to know this little guy. His schedule (he had none), his
hunger cries (very similar to his every other cry). His pirate look--one eye open, one eye squeezed shut, as if he was still surprised by all that had taken place to him in a week’s time. I felt surprised, too. How could my baby possibly have had a baby? How could I be a grandmother? I had just turned fifty-one. Shockingly young! How could a kid like me give up playing tennis three times a week to settle into knitting and crocheting and Friday night bingo? And shouldn’t I alter my appearance to fit this new label? Give up my jeans? Switch over to below knee-length calico dresses, thick black socks, practical shoes, gray hair pinned in a topknot. Think…Aunt Bee on Mayberry R.F.D. As soon as people knew my daughter was expecting, I was bombarded with advice from my well meaning friends—even those who weren’t yet grandparents. “The best way to avoid getting on the nerves of your daughter and son-in-law is to not say anything. Ever.” Or “You’d better pick your nickname or you’ll be stuck with something hideous, like MooMoo Cow.” What should I be called? Granny? No…reminded me of The Beverly Hillbillies. Grandma? No…sounded like The Waltons. Grammy? No…it was already taken by the in-laws. But no one really explained what it meant to be a grandmother. I didn’t know myself, not until I held baby Blake in my arms. In that moment, I realized that he was one of mine. He belongs to me. He will be on my mind and in my prayers, every day, for the rest of my life. There’s a bond between us that can’t be broken. He has altered my life forevermore.I had become a grandmother.

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

2011-05-06T10:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.

AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.

AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

When Mother's Day is Difficult by Holley Gerth

I have a confession (anyone surprised?). I have mixed feelings about Mother’s Day.

On one hand, I love celebrating all the women who have made a difference in my life (thanks, Mom!).

On the other hand, a long journey of infertility has left my heart with some tender places.

On May 8th, we’ll celebrate Mother’s Day once again. For many, it’s a time of appreciation and joy. For others, it can be one of the most difficult days of the year. This is often true for women facing infertility, families who have recently experienced the loss of a mother, and many other painful situations.

At one point in my life it seemed as if I couldn’t take another step. In addition to infertility, I was facing several other losses. I felt as if I were in a dark cave. But then I sensed the Lord gently and lovingly speak to my heart, “You may be in a cave, but you still have a choice. You can sit in despair or you can diamond-mine your difficulties.” I decided I was not leaving that time in my life empty-handed. I was taking every hidden blessing I could find. Of course, I still had difficult days. But choosing hope made a difference.

As a reminder, I now wear two rings. The one on the fourth finger of my left hand represents my commitment to my husband. The one on the fourth finger of my right hand is a simple silver band inscribed with the word “hope” and it represents the commitment I have made to God and myself to hold onto hope no matter what happens.

The story of an inspiring woman named Terrie also reminds me to hold onto hope. She endured the loss of four pregnancies and waited seventeen years before adopting a little girl. She told me, “I think one of the most important parts of this journey is learning to trust God. I don’t mean the flippant kind of trust. It’s easy for people to say, ‘You just need to trust God.’ It’s much harder when you’re in the middle of all this pain. But he is trustworthy. Through it all, God has given us an amazing story. I wouldn’t have chosen this road, but he has been with us. I can look back and truly say every step was worth it.”
I don’t know how my journey will end and you probably don’t know how yours will either. I also don’t know how many of you will be silently grieving your losses as we sit in church together on May 8th. But I do know that God sees each one of us. He knows how many hairs are on our heads and how many cares our in our hearts. Whatever you’re going through this Mother’s Day, you’re not facing it alone. As King David, a man who experienced many losses in his life, expressed in Psalm 34:18 NIV, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” May God surround you with love, fill you with hope, and give you strength for each moment—especially this Mother’s Day.

Excerpted from When Mother’s Day is Difficult.

Holley Gerth is an award-winning writer for DaySpring, a cofounder of the popular web site (in)courage, and licensed counselor. Holley loves chocolate, coffee, Jesus and connecting with the hearts of women through words. Her next book, a devotional titled God's Heart for You: Embracing Your True Worth as a Woman (Harvest House) will release this July. You can find Holley online through her blog Heart to Heart with Holley.

We Be Big by Rick Burgess and Bill "Bubba" Bussey

2011-05-06T09:23:00.000-05:00

About the Authors:
Rick Burgess and Bubba Burgess call themselves the two sexiest fat man alive. Their radio show is a down-to-earth conversation with the listeners. Together they have written several books, including:
The Rick and Bubba Code.
Rick and Bubba for President.
Rick and Bubba's guide to the most nearly perfect marriage.
Rick and Bubba's Expert Guide to God, Country, Family and Anything Else We Can Think Of.
They are not ashamed to talk about their faith in God, on the air.
Synopsis:
I have not heard the Rick and Bubba show but have read some of their books. It is a pleasure to meet someone with my own sense of humor.
Reading about their struggles and trials in their climb to be the best at what they do reinforces my belief that God has a plan for us all and will put us in the right place at the right time in order to fulfill the plan. I found it very refreshing to read about their faith and reliance on God in all situations. I hope they do not stop sharing their faith with their listeners.
When I read about Rick and Sherry's child, Bronner's death, I cried for their loss. Still, they do not lose their made and praised God through their grief.
I can honestly say that this book made me laugh and cry. I want to thank Thomas Nelson, for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. Although I received a complimentary copy of this book. the opinions expressed here are mine.

2011-05-05T23:54:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.
AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

And to all you MOMS out there! Happy Mother's Day!

A Mother's Day Wish by Shellie Rushing Tomlinson

Heads up: Margaret McSweeney deserves a medal, or at least a commendation for giving everyone a much deserved Mother’s Day rest. Okay, y’all can be seated. I’m glad you agree, but you’re supposed to be taking a load off, remember? Oh, and full disclosure—Margaret didn’t know I was going to say that so I hope she leaves it in, and no, I didn’t do it just because I’m ridiculously nostalgic about the theme of her community, although I am. As the Belle of All Things Southern, one who is southern to the bone, I have a thing about pearls.

When I was a teenager, add-a-pearl necklaces were all the rage. They may not be as wildly popular anymore as they were back in the day but I still say they’ll always be a classic concept: a gift of a single pearl on a dainty chain given with the intentions of adding other pearls on important holidays and special occasions. Today, I see add-a-pearls as a beautiful reminder of the accumulated wisdom we learn from our mamas. Oh, sure, we snicker as young girls because not all of their advice strikes us as useful and some of it seems positively fossilized, but hopefully, over time and with the Father’s blessing, we gain enough perspective to see that these mama-isms—the important values and the silly little lagniappe— are all increasing in value with the years. By the way, that’s my Mother’s Day wish for each of you, that we’d each take the time and the responsibility to thread these precious heirlooms into treasures worthy of bequeathing to the next generation. Mother’s Day...
May I be honest? I’m looking ahead to the annual celebration with somewhat mixed emotions. I’m not feeling very Mother of the Year. Instead of cooking dinner for my most deserving mama and enjoying her company, instead of reveling in the love of my husband, kids, and grands, (known as the Baby Czars of All Things Southern), I’ll be on the road, touring with my latest book “Sue Ellen’s Girl Ain’t Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy.” I’ve got Mama’s gift bought, wrapped, and ready to be delivered by my beloved hubby, and my grown kids understand that I didn’t choose the release date, but the facts remain: I won’t be there. (Shameless plugs time, anyone? My daughter blogs at Kitchen Belleicious and is raising funds to build an orphanage in Rwanda at Shelter a Child http://www.shelterachild.com/ and my daughter-in-law celebrates the daily details of getting to know the Holy One at Providence, http://providence-carey.blogspot.com). I won’t get to enjoy Mama tickling the ivory from the piano bench of Melbourne Baptist Church and I won’t be overdosing on baby sugah. Sigh.

But, then, I mentioned mixed emotions earlier, didn’t I? Well, before some sweet soul cues the violin music, perhaps I should lighten up and come clean on what Mr. Harvey would call “the rest of the story.” It so happens that while the 8th of May will find me miles from home, it’ll also find me in Savannah, Georgia where I’ve secured myself a little reservation at that famous establishment belonging to Mrs. Paula Deen, the Queen of Southern Cooking. Indeed, y’all, I’ll be suffering for Jesus at The Lady and Sons. I know. It’s a dirty job, but someone has to do it.

Regardless of where you spend it, I wish you each a Happy Mother’s Day. I’d love to think that everyone reading my words had a mother like mine, a woman of faith who taught me from childhood of the Risen Savior who saves souls and anchors lives. But, dear reader, if that’s not your past, I hope you know it can be your future. I pray you’ll be the one that begins such a legacy, and that you’ll be moved to start building that heritage today.

I’d love to see y’all on the road somewhere. Watch for me, and I’ll watch for you. I’ll be the one with an empty glass of sweet tea looking, always looking, for a refill.

Hugs,
Shellie

Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, known as the Belle of All Things Southern is a radio host, columnist, author, speaker and founder of the All Things Southern online community, www.allthingssouthern.com. She loves meeting, greeting, laughing and learning with the whole wide world or as many who wander her way. Shellie once dreamed of writing great important things that changed the world, only once she started writing the world grinned and christened her a humorist. Shellie saw this as a problem at first, until she discovered that the laughter softens hearts, builds relationships, and invites her into people’s hurting hearts where she can share her own, which is exactly where she wanted to be all along. Look for Shellie’s latest book, Sue Ellen’s Girl Ain’t Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy wherever fine books are sold.

Dare to Be Different by Nicole O'Dell

2011-05-05T21:23:00.004-05:00

About the Author:
Nicole O'Dell is mom to six children, including two-year-old triplets.She hosts Teen Talk Radio and has written several books. She has a heart for teens and is a speaker at conventions, churches and conferences.
Synopsis:
this is the first book of this series, I have read and I must say I am hooked. I love the opportunity to find out what happens when the wrong choice is made and the opportunity to find out when the right choice is made.
Ms. O' Dell's characters are real and credible. She deals with issues that are teens are facing today. Peer pressure drugs, alcohol and sex are temptations our kids are confronted with on a daily basis. Lindsay and Drew find out their choices affect not only them but they also affect their families and friends.
These books should be required reading for all teens and their parents. Although this is my first book in this series, it will definitely not be my last.
All the opinions contained in this review are mine.

2011-05-04T18:34:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.

AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

And to all you MOMS out there! Happy Mother's Day!

Adoption, a Mother's Greatest Gift by Tricia Goyer
I held the small baby in my arms, wrapped up in a receiving blanket to keep her warm from the chill of the delivery room, and a voice spoke to me. "Congratulations, Mom."The congratulations came from an unlikely source--the grandmother of this child, the mother of the sweet birth mother who chose adoption for her baby girl.To say I was overwhelmed is an understatement. Thankfulness filled my heart--to God who'd answered my prayers and to the birth mom who'd chosen our family for her daughter. I also ached that my joy would be another's heartache. Working with teen moms for ten years, I was often an advocate for the young mother. I knew that while the weeks and months ahead would be a time of celebration for our family, they would be ones of heartache and grieving for this woman.Adoption is a wonder and the beauty, and the sacrifice of it is never so clear as on Mother's Day. My new daughter is one-years-old now and she huge is a part of my heart. Her life is a gift to my days and her smile can make even the most dreary afternoon bright. I can honestly say there is no difference in the love I feel between her and my three other children. If anything the love feels even more special because she was an unexpected gift. John and I learned about her life just 2 ½ months prior to her being born. The years of prayers to expand our family were answered quickly and beautmM…
ifully.The sacrifice of adoption makes my heart ache, for I know on this Mother's Day another woman will be thinking about my daughter—her daughter. As I rejoice, I'll be crying tears for her. I'll also be sending up prayers that God will wrap His arms around her in a special way.This Mother's Day I cannot help to think about Christ's sacrifice to make our adoption into God's family possible. Maybe it's because just a few weeks ago we were celebrating Easter, but I'm reminded anew that my gain required His loss, His pain. The greatest love, it seems, is not shown with flowers, chocolate or a diamond bracelet. The greatest love is shown when, because of your love for another, your desires and comfort are laid down for the greater good of someone else.As Ephesians 1:3 says, “How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son” (The Message).Perhaps you know an adoptive mother. Take time this Mother's Day to let her know that the beauty of her gift is not missed by you. Also, take time to thank God for adopting you into His forever family, thanking Jesus Christ for His sacrifice. I wouldn't be the mother I am without this Gift of Love.

Tricia Goyer is the author of twenty-six books including Beside Still Waters, The Swiss Courier, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Tricia's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like MomSense and Thriving Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife. www.triciagoyer.com

2011-05-03T22:37:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.
AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.
If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls™ products (all GREAT Mother's Day gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.
And to all you MOMS out there! Happy Mother's Day!
A Merry Heart ... by Megan Alexander
Sometimes family is really all you need. This was reinforced to me when my Mother shared a story a few days ago about her mother, my Grandma. You see, when my Grandma was a very young girl, around age 10, she was diagnosed with polio. This meant long hospital stays, extremely limited interaction with children her own age and lonely days staring out the window from her hospital bed. In those days, with polio, they felt keeping the children very subdued and quiet was best, and this particular hospital was as drab as can be. It was also during the time of the Depression, which meant money was tight and life was tough. Day in and day out, she was given the best medicine and treatment, but she wasn’t thriving and recovering. Daily visits from adult doctors and specialists is not exactly stimulating for a young girl. Her health was so poor, at one point, a Catholic Priest had administered the "last rites" at her bedside. One day, her older brother and sister decided to sneak some brand new baby kittens into her hospital room. Their cat Fitzy had just had babies, and the cute kittens were small enough to put in a basket. Upon entering her room, my mother says they quietly took off the lid and showed my Grandma the sweet little kittens and let her cuddle with them. Her mother, my Great Grandmother, observed my Grandma’s mood instantly lift. Her eyes sparkled and she squealed with delight at the cute kitties! Her whole demeanor changed and she came to life.
My Great Grandma took all this in and made a decision that day. She decided that my Grandma would heal much better at home. She promptly checked my Grandma out of the hospital and brought her home with her family. My Grandma did gradually recover, among the love and warmth of her family. You know what Proverbs 17 says “ A merry heart does good like a medicine.” Also, I can imagine that she healed emotionally and physically and spiritually as well and that combined strength wouldn't have been possible in the hospital alone. When they left that day, the hospital instructed my Great Grandmother to massage my Grandma’s legs everyday, something she promised the hospital she would do, and she did. My Grandma was one of the few people we know who did not have a limp or shortened leg due to polio. And perhaps most importantly, the entire family was always praying for my Grandma.
I’m not saying that medicine is bad or not necessary. But there is no cure quite like the warmth of your family. Its like milk, it simply does a body good. As a pregnant Mom about to give birth to a baby boy, I am inspired to provide this same love to my child. May he feel the same warm love from his family that my Grandma felt from her’s. And in this same way, we are called sons and daughters of God. Galatians 4:1-7 “Now I say that the heir, as long as he is
a child,
does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, "Abba, Father!" Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.” God claims you and I as his children. This is a wonderful gift and identity that is good for our heart and soul, and something that is more powerful than all the medicine in the world. Megan Alexander can be seen nightly as a television correspondent for the top rated news magazine show “Inside Edition”. She also appears on the CNN program “Showbiz Tonight”. She especially enjoys reporting on stories with a heart. She graduated from Westmont College with a degree in Political Science. She loves speaking to youth and works with Girls Inc and National American Miss. She and her husband reside in the New York City area and attend Redeemer Church of Manhattan. For more on Megan, go to www.meganalexander.com. Megan’s mother, Mary, resides in Seattle and provided insight into this essay.

Refreshment in Refuge by Gina Burgess

2011-05-02T21:11:00.001-05:00

About the Author:

Gina Burgess studied journalism, but took a thirty year break to raise her two daughters. She then returned to school and earned a BAAS degree from the Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas.

She has been an editor for several publications, writes a weekly column for Studylight.org., As well as a biweekly column@everydayChristian.com.

Synopsis:

This book will bring refreshment to the soul and remind you that God's love will never fail.
This book contains short stories from the author's experience, as well as, studies of biblical man and women. The author writes with honesty about her faith in God. Some stories are touched with humor, while others will tug at your heartstrings.
A couple of my favorite chapters include:
seven habits of highly effective godly women.
Goodness, which retells the story of the two women claiming the same baby. This story was told, so clearly you could feel the pain of the true mother and the joy she felt when King Solomon rendered the fair and just decision.
I was hooked from the first chapter to the last page. I fully endorse this book as one you will read over and over again.
I received this complimentary copy from the author, but the opinions in this review are entirely mine.

2011-05-02T07:49:00.005-05:00

Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother's Day blog series. The series is week long celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today's best writer's (Tricia Goyer, Megan Alexander, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Beth Engelman, Holley Gerth, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, and more). I hope you'll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother's Day.

AND ... do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful hand crafted pearl necklace. To enter, just {CLICK THIS LINK} and fill out the short form. Contest runs 5/1-5/8 and the winner will on 5/11. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

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

And to all you MOMS out there! Happy Mother's Day!

3 DIY Mother’s Day Gifts that Celebrate Family By Beth Engelman This Mother’s Day, celebrate family with this crafty games the whole family can enjoy. Block Photo Puzzle Not only does this 6-sided photo puzzle provide hours of family fun, but it’s also a great way to reuse favorite family photos.
Materials:•   9 - Wooden Blocks (Use old alphabet blocks)•   6 - 8 x 10 Photograph Prints or Colored Copies•   Ruler•   Scissors •   Mod Podge and Paintbrush
Directions: 1. Arrange blocks in a square and measure the length and width of the square.2. Measure and cut print to the exact same size as the 9-block square. 3. Place blocks in a square on top of print. Position blocks so they’re lined up neatly and as close together as possible.4. Trace and cut the outline of each block.5. Glue print pieces to blocks using Mod Podge. Set aside to dry and then seal with 1-2 top layers of Mod Podge.6. Repeat process until all 6 sides of the blocks are covered with different photographs.Thank you to the creative folks at www.photojojo.com for sharing this idea! “Go Fish with the Family” Card GameThis gift is perfect for Moms who like card games. Another bonus? There’s always room to “grow” the deck.
Materials:•   Camera•   Double stick tape, or a glue stick•   Several pieces of cardstock (one color)•   ScissorsDirections:1.   Take pictures of each family member and develop the pictures in duplicates (3x5 or 4x6 is fine, just make sure all the pictures are the same size).2.   Turn the pictures into playing cards by gluing or taping a piece of card-stock to the backside of each picture. 3.   Game ideas include “Go Fishing with the Family” which is similar to “Go Fish” but, instead of matching numbers, the object is to collect matching pairs of photos. “Memory” is another fun game to play. Place the cards face down in a grid and try to find matching pairs of photos. Family Bingo In my house, Bingo is always a big hit because regardless of age or skill level, everyone has the same chance to win. However this version is extra special because the playing boards are populated with pictures of family members.
Materials: •   Color Coordinated Game Boards (download here) •   Images of Family Members (use photographs, drawings or clip art)•   Bingo Markers (pennies, pebbles or buttons)•   Glue and Scissors
Directions:1.   Create the game boards: Download and print desired number of game-boards. Remember each player gets a different game board. 2.   Color-copy and paste images of family members onto each game board. Remember to paste one person per square and make each board slightly different. 3.   Make “call-out cards” by writing the name of each family member in yellow, green, blue, purple and pink (which coordinates with the colors on the board)4.   To Play: Game play is similar to traditional Bingo except the caller will randomly select a call-out card and then read the color and person. For example, “Blue, Grandma Mary” means there is a picture of Grandma Mary in a blue square. Just like Bingo, the first person to get 5 in a row (horizontally, vertically or diagonally) wins!Beth Engelman is a columnist for the Sun Times News Group’s Pioneer Press. Her column “Mommy on a Shoestring,” appears in over 30 local papers around Chicago area as well as on the Sun-times website where you can also view her Mommy on a Shoestring video series. She is also a regular on “You and Me this Morning” on WCIU and is frequent contributor for WGN America’s Midday News at Noon. Recently, Beth was chosen by a celebrity panel from NBC Universal and iVillage to become one of 15 national “mom” correspondents for NBC’s popular website, www.ivillage.com (over 3 million visitors a day) where she reports on issues that affect moms, families and communities such as bullying, divorce and weight loss. For more information visit Beth at www.mommyonashoestring.com

Mother of Pearls

2011-05-02T00:02:00.003-05:00

Max on Life by Max Lucado

2011-04-28T12:23:00.001-05:00

About the author:

Max Lucado is one of America's most widely read authors. He has more than 100 million products in print. He and his wife ,Denalyn live in San Antonio, Texas, where he serves at the Oak Hill church.

Synopsis:

In his latest book Max Lucado fields questions about hope, hurt, and home. He answers these questions with honest examples and a foundation in Scripture. His answers with knowledge, directness, compassion and practicality.

Lucado's of God and his passion for ministry are evident on each page and in each answer. He does not pretend to be the final authority on life's important questions, but points the reader to the ultimate authority. Max on Life is written in a Lucado style; interesting, honestly, and inspirational.

I received this book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest and open review. I highly recommend this book and plan to keep it as a reference in my library.

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer

2011-04-28T11:38:00.001-05:00

About the Author:

Tricia Goyer is a prolific writer who has published hundreds of articles in national magazines. She has also written more than 20 fiction and nonfiction books combined. She helped write 3:16 teen edition with Max Lucado. She has also written books on marriage and parenting and contributed notes to the Women of Faith study Bible.

Synopsis:

18-year-old Marianna summer has spent her entire life with the Amish in Indiana. She plans to be baptized into the Church, marry Aaron Zook and start her own family.

When her older brother decides to leave the community and follow the way of the Englisch, Marianna's father decides to move the family to Montana. I Marianna is of legal age and is in her own.
Rumschpringe years, and not obligated to move with the family, she decides to go to help her mother, who is pregnant with another child.

She was surprised to find herself being influenced by many Englisch ways in Montana. She finds herself desiring to pursue a deeper kind of joy and love for God. She said Lawrence. The move for me Indiana was not about losing that about finding out who God really is. Through our experiences, both good and bad Marianna feels a peace in our soul.

I enjoyed reading this book because I learned about the Amish. I will recommend this book to anyone.

I received this book from lit fuse publicity in exchange for an honest and open review.
.

Another birthday another year

2011-04-13T09:59:00.000-05:00

Well here I sit reflecting on another birthday. So much as happened this past year, it's hard to believe that I am another year older. But, as they say, life goes on.

I know God has a plan for me, and his timing is perfect. Although I feel every year has brought more wisdom, I still feel there is more for me to do here.

As we get older our humor must remain intact. This year I had two cakes because, my darling grandkids, decided that all my candles would not fit on one cake. You just have to love the candor of kids.

Well, I must get started on the new year of my life. Until next time, this is another slice of life on the age.

Lazarus Awakening by Joanna Weaver

2011-04-06T09:26:00.000-05:00

I recently had the opportunity to read and review Lazarus Awakening by Joanna Weaver, the best-selling author of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World and Having a Mary Spirit. This is the the third book in that trilogy. This book invites us to take a closer look at our relationship with God by showing us that God does love in spite of ourselves. To many people this idea is too overwhelming for them to believe. Many people fail to recognize the compassion of Jesus when He does not intervene in crises in their lives. But just as he waited for four days to go to Bethany when He heard of Lazarus' illness, he allows his children to experience tribulations in order to fulfill the plans and purposes he has for their lives. He works in His time frame and not ours.

Ms. Weaver takes the story of Lazarus found in the bible (John 11:1-12:11) and relates it to our lives today. Sometimes taking off the grave clothes we wear can be a painful process but is necessary if we want to experience the wholeness of God's love for us.

I found this book to be an enlightening read and realized that sometimes I am more comfortable wearing the grave clothes because I am afraid of what lies ahead if I take them off.

I do recommend this book to anyone who desires to find their place in the Heart of God.

Heart Of Ice by Lis Wiehl and April Henry

2011-04-05T13:22:00.000-05:00

Lis Wiehl and April Henry have done it again! The women of the Triple Threat Club have put their skills to the test and beat all odds to come out on top again. This time the killer is right in front of their noses.

When Cassidy Shaw, reporter for Channel 4 news joins a boot camp class taught by Elizabeth she is drawn to her and becomes a "friend" to her. What she doesn't know is that Elizabeth is a master manipulator who only uses people to get what she wants. She has already used a former fellow inmate to burn a house and kill the ex of her wealthy boyfriend. She also uses a lonely and insecure supermarket clerk to do her bidding and kill for her.

When the Triple Threat Club realize what is happening, one of their own is in danger of losing her daughter and her own life

This book is a fascinating read but I must warn you: Do not open this book at bedtime orie you will not sleep at all because you won't be able to put this read down. The characters are real and credible and the action is fast paced.

I received this book in exchange for an honest and open review from Booksneeze.

Life Happens

2011-03-19T09:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I haven't been faithful in posting lately. My mom is in the hospital. She had heart surgery this week and is doing fine. My brother in law is also in ICU 2 doors away from Mom, and my husband recently got out of the hospital too. It is getting bad when the nurses know you by your first name and have a cup of coffee waiting for you when you get there.

I can thank God that He has never left us alone through all of this and has had to carry us when the going got tough.

I just want to ask all of you for your prayers for me and my family.

Invasion by Jon S. Lewis

2011-03-10T17:34:00.001-06:00

I did not really know what to expect from this book when I ordered it. I am not a major sci-fi fan but I have grandsons who do enjoy this genre. My oldest grandson read it after I finished and said he enjoyed reading it.

Following the death of his parents, Colt is forced to move to Arizona to live with his grandfather. The only person he knows in his new town is a childhood friend named Dani. He also meets a boy, Oz whom he has not met before, yet seems strangely familiar. The trio of friends are drawn into a world of shape shifters, flying morotcycles, and aliens. Everything Colt thought was normal now seems to have disappeared. His life will never be the same.

Although I did not enjoy this book as much as others I have read, I did find myself lost in the story at times. I think this book would be a good book for young sci-fi fans. I received this book from BookSneeze in exchange for an honest and open review.

The Life Ready Woman in a Do it All World by Shaunti Feldham and Robert Lewis

2011-02-22T21:26:00.001-06:00

This is a book for women who want to live godly lives and thrive in the "do it all world." When we live according to God's calling for our lives we will thrive. When we attempt to live "in the world" without listening to God, we find ourselves stressed and overwhelmed.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part contrasts the mold society attempts to fit us into vs the unique design and callings God has for us.

In part 2 we learn about "living from the inside out." Inside out living is using our core calling to enhance our lives by putting God's design for us before the world's designs.

I was really impacted by the "seasons of life" descriptions. I, personally, do not fit into a specific stage but find myself in several stages at once. I am married with young adult children but since I have custody of four grandchildren I am also married with grade schoolers, and married with teenagers. I do not know if I will ever be a married empty nester but I do know that I'm living God's purpose for my life.

This book did impact my life and provided me with several things to really think about. I believe you will, after reading this book, also find yourself thinking about your core calling and God's design for your life.

I received this book from LitFuse in exchange for an honest review.

Another Chapter Opens

2011-02-17T16:04:00.000-06:00

Well, life is definitely "on the edge". My DH is in the hospital and has been for a week. He has gall bladder problems, colon problems and yesterday, he had a minor heart attack--if there is such a thing. No heart attack is minor in my opinion.

I have been running myself ragged and driving myself crazy(ier) by the minute.

Until next time, my foot is slipping further and further on the edge.

The Rhythm of Secrets by Patti Lacy

2011-02-16T20:44:00.000-06:00

Sheila Franklin has lived a life of secrets but now these secrets must come to light. She has married Edward, a conservative pastor. Her life is one of happiness and fulfillment until a phone call from the son she was forced to give up years ago shatters that complacent life. Should she come to the aid of her son and help him find and save the love of his life or should she not "rock the boat" and put her husband's career in jeopardy?

Once her secrets are revealed she finds that God's love has redeemed her past and reconciled her secrets. She comes to understand that He does love her unconditionally and her past sins does not diminish that love.

This is an awesome story of redemption and forgiveness. Everyone who reads this book will see parts of their own spiritual journey through Sheila's adventures.

Patti Lacy hasd done a wonderful job in bringing her characters to life. I highly recommend this book.

I received this book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest and open review.

Living in the Overlap by Steve Schaefer

2011-02-16T20:25:00.000-06:00

What an idea! I did not fully understand what the overlap is until I read this book. To be honest, I had not even heard of "living in the overlap" until I read this book. According to Schaefer, the overlap is now--the time between the coming of the kingdom of God and the ultimate fulfillment of the kingdom at the end of time. The implications of the overlap are astronomical--we can enjoy some of the blessings of the age to come but will only experience all the kingdom blessings when Christ comes again.

"Although we have not yet stood before God the the end time judgment we have already received our end time verdict of 'not guilty'. p.23. What an awesome thought! Because He sent His son to take our guilt we can enjoy the blessings of His kingdom.

Living in the overlap does not make us immune to Satan and conflicts. Schaefer lists three forms of evil influence we face:
    the world
    the flesh
    the devil

This book is a great read for anyone who wants to know more about God's kingdom and how it affects us today.

I received this book in exchange for an honest and open review.

Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst

2011-01-25T22:57:00.000-06:00

This book is a amazingly easy read that is loaded with good information. God is interested in every area of our lives--yes, even our eating habits. Lysa offers practical tips that will ease the unhealthy food cravings and bring us closer to God. She has battled with her weight and has "walked this walk" herself. She is not throwing out useless advice in a condescending manner. She has been there done that.

I found the scriptures she included helpful in other areas of my life. I found they gave me the help I needed when I was in situations that required more willpower than I had on my own. Lysa used an illustration regarding her running distance that struck a chord in my own life. I have found that God gives me more strength than I could possibly have on my own many times.

Overall, I found this book very good and useful plan to keep it as a reference to augment my healthy eating and living plan. I do recommend this book to anyone that needs encouragement to combat their cravings and to know that God is always there to help us.

I received this book from Litfuse blog tour in exchange for an honest review.

Change of Plans

2011-01-07T21:39:00.000-06:00

I had the pleasure of reviewing this movie before it aired on television. I must tell you that it is a must see movie that reinforces the power of family.

Jason and Sally are a professional couple without children. Their lives and careers are fulfilling and they are happy with life and each other. But their lives take a drastic turn when Sally learns her best friend and her husband are killed in a plane crash in Uganda where they were working in the peace corps.
The couple left four children, 3 of which were adopted. One minute Jason and Sally were free to travel without worries and the next they become guardians of four children.

Along with these new members of the household come the problems associated with parenthood. From adjustments at new schools to teenage issues, Sally and Jason are given a quick indoctrination into the lives of parents. Of course, tensions arise and a minor legal problem occurs but each member of this family do learn that sacrifice and compromise are necessary ingredients to a successful family life.

This movie airs tomorrow night (1/8) on Fox at 7:00 CST. I urge you and your family to watch this amazing movie. This is a family movie that will not disappoint you.

Another Christmas

2010-12-28T20:04:00.000-06:00

Well, another Christmas has come and gone. I hope everyone had a wonderful time and enjoyed time with family and friends. We had a white Christmas this year and that really made me feel "Christmasy" (Is that a word?) Oh well, I had a wonderful time and feel so good that everyone had a good time at my house for Christmas dinner. It was a lot of work and play at the same time.

Again, I hope you all had a wonderful time and remembered to thank God for the real reason we celebrate Christmas each year. I watched the kids open their presents and paused and gave thanks to God for the many blessings.

SHOPPING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-14T12:28:00.000-06:00

Just finished my Christmas Shopping. Again spent too much but none of it is on credit. I can only thank God for that blessing. Of course, hubby is going to fuss but he hasn't even started his yet.

Hope everyone is enjoying this holiday season. Hope you all are keeping warm. I am going to hibernate today and tomorrow afternoon. I forgot about a doctor's appointment I have in the morning. UGH!

Until next time--stay warm and happy and thank God for all His blessings you have received.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2010-12-13T19:16:00.000-06:00

Well folks, Christmas is almost here. I hope you are all having a great time during the holidays. I have been running myself to death trying to get everything done in time--but isn't that what I'm supposed to be doing. School is about to be dismissed for the holiday and Christmas parties and school programs are in full swing. The only thing I wish for this season is that we remember the purpose of Christmas.

Well, I have got to go and settle the kids down and get things ready for school tomorrow.

So long for now from the edge.

Little Star by Anthony DeStefano

2010-12-12T15:06:00.000-06:00

A king is about to be born! All the stars compete for the chance to shine the brightest to welcome this anticipated arrival. They were all being shined and dusted by comets; all, that is, except Little Star. The other stars did not make fun of Little Star--they ignored him which hurt more.

When the stars saw the poor couple in the manger, they lost interest in the child's birth. "Surely no king would come in such an ordianry style," they thought. So interest was lost. But of all the stars in the heavens, Little Star was the only one who understood the King's message. His message is LOVE.

This is a beautifully written book for children. The illustrations really add to the message of the book. I read this story to my children and they absolutely loved it. My six year old gathered her dolls together and "read" the book to them.

I must say I hightly recommend this book and it will be a new tradition in my household.

Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

2010-12-11T14:13:00.001-06:00

This is a delightful book. It has words and music to 150 of our favorite hymns and the story behind their origins. It is more than a historical account but is written in an interesting devotional style.

Before I read this book I knew the history of "It is Well With My Soul" but was truly amazed to learn fun factsd about some of my other favorites: "Little Brown Church in the Vale" was written five years before the church was actually built. This story almost has a supernatural aura about it--what might be called a God Thing; The words to "Jesus Loves Me" was written in a novel written by Anna B. and Susan Warner. The music was written years later by William Bradbury when he found the words in the novel.

I loved this book because I use hymns in my own worship time with God. This book would make a wonderful gift to a music lover or for anyone (like me) who likes to learn interesting and fun facts.

I recommend this book highly.

This book was given to me by Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

The Devil is in the Details by Tony Kessinger

2010-12-11T13:04:00.000-06:00

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tony Kessinger has more than twenty-five years ministry experience. He is the president of Truth Seekers International and the author of several books. He is an excellent Bible teacher who has taught in Bible institures on five continents.

Tony Kessinger has written a book that everyone should read. He has researched the material very well and speaks with great knowledge and authority on the wiles of the devil. He gives his readers a firm foundation of scriptures to add to their arsenal against the devil.

The devil is alive and well today. He is still using deceptive methods to entrap humans. The enemy is sneaking and bombarding us daily with his subtle tricks. As a grandmother rearing her four grandchildren, reading this book made me more aware of what these children are exposed to every day. Satan can use something that seems innocent and harmless but is slowly weakening their defenses until Satan has established a stronghold on them.

This book is full of information and the chapter summaries really encapsulate the essence of each chapter. This book is a must read for Christians who want to know more about the wiles of the enemy. I highly recommend it.

This book was given to me by the author for an honest review.

A Mother's Holiday

2010-11-24T20:16:00.000-06:00

This is for all of us mothers out there:

A Mother's Holiday

Up before dawn
Sweeping and mopping,
Too much to do
No time for stopping.
The family is nestled
All snug in their beds,
While visions of a turkey dinner
Dance in their heads.
There's cooking to be done,
And laundry to do,
Gotta scrub the floors
And clean the windows too.
The TV comes on--
The family is awake
How much more do you think I can take?
The relatives pour in with
Shouts of good cheer.
Why did I offer to have
The family dinner here?
Now that the meal is done
The relatives leave amid
Shouts of good wishes.
While hubby and the kids watch TV
Guess who gets stuck with the dishes?

Happy Thanksgiving to all and to all a good night.

Freedom is Not Free

2010-11-11T17:05:00.000-06:00

Today is Veterans' Day. It is not a day just for a select few but a day all free Americans should celebrate. We owe a BIG THANK YOU to all the men and women who have risked and even given their lives so we can be free. I am the wife of a veteran, the mother of a veteran, and the daughter in law of a veteran. I love this country and thank God every day for the opportunity to live in this beautiful country.

Please watch the video on the sidebar and realize that our fighting men and women are not just anonymous faces. They have wives, husbands, sisters, brothers, parents, and children. This is not an impersonal battle--we must make it personal and give thanks to God. I have seen signs saying "God bless America", but I have seen few if any signs that say America, thank God.

I hope you have had a wonderful day and spent at least one minute of your day saying a thank you to God and the men and women fighting for us.

Until tomorrow.

Crazy World

2010-11-05T20:20:00.000-05:00

Today, another bomb threat was made to my granddaughter's high school. This is the third one in a month. What kind of person thinks this stuff is cool? Today, there were bomb threats also found at 3 other schools in this county. It is time that people open their eyes to see the shape of our world today.

Somebody said it was just a prank to get out of school. What about old fashioned skipping? Isn't that safer than putting hundreds of lives at risk?

All I can do is pray for the children--mine and the others in the schools? Yes, even for the poor misguided person that thinks it is fun to scare others like this.

Second Gallon of Lemonade

2010-11-04T09:38:00.000-05:00

OK, I am getting my fill of lemonade in the recent weeks. Yesterday, I discovered my refrigerator-freezer has gone out. I have several packages of meat that I have to cook today. Kids will be eating good for awhile. Luckily, I have another freezer to use so I do not have to cook everything. Oh, I had just gone to the grocery the day before so you can imagine how I felt when I made this discovery.

Oh well, kids have to be fed so now we will a buffet to choose from. Any leftovers will be saved so it's not a total waste. Second thought. What a wonderful opportunity to cook in mass and make home made TV dinners. See the silver lining in this cloud?

This lemonade, I have to admit, is not as sweet as the first gallon. But, at least all is not lost. I guess I should be grateful for the food to cook.

Anybody want to join us for our buffet? We will have chicken, burgers, steaks, and beef roast. The only condition is you have to clean up afterwards. After I do all this cooking, I definitely will not want to clean the kitchen.

Until next time, this is life on the edge

From Lemons to Lemonade

2010-11-02T13:44:00.001-05:00

Sometimes life just does not seem fair does it? I had some issues recently that really brought this home to me. I was not feeling well and had no energy to do any of my normal day to day chores--clean house, laundry, etc. I do not know what was wrong but for a couple of weeks all I could do each day was get the kids up and ready in time for their bus to come by. After a few days, I got tired of being tired and decided I would just plug along and do what I could. Well, by early afternoon I was totally exhausted so I would always lie down before the kids came home from school. I knew I had a list of books to read and review plus stories I wanted to write. Well, I decided that during my "off hours" I would work on a little bit of this backlog each day. So by the time my bad two weeks had passed I had waded though over half of the books and have written about half of the stories I have had on file to write.

I can now say that although life had given me lemons for a while--I was successful in making lemonade and let me tell you, it did taste sweet to be able to say I did accomplish something during this bad time.

Oh by the way, the house has been cleaned although when the kids are home--I still don't do as much cleaning as I get done when they are not home.

So for now so long from life on the edge.

A Chapter Closes; A New One Opens

2010-11-01T13:35:00.000-05:00

Life is lived in chapters. There is the chapter of being young parents wanting the best for our children. This includes the best education we can afford for them, the best activities that will give them the best advantage in life, as well as, teaching them values that will not leave them when they are older.

The next chapter is when the children grow into teenagers, achieve the milestone of driving and leaving us to sit up nights worrying about their safety while they are in the "wide world" behind the wheel.

Then hopefully, the chapter opens when they have their own families and visit "Mom and Dad" on birthdays and other special days that will make good memories for their own kids.

Well, if you have read my blog at all, you know I am not only hosting the grandkids for visits but have custody of the 4 precious ones. Now, a brand new chapter has opened up for me--I now have a new 16 year old with a (I shudder when I say it) HER PERMIT. Now this should not be so scary but at my age, my nerves are not as good as they used to be anyway. SO--her I go again, teaching a new driver.

I just pray and ask for your prayers too that all of us will make it through this new chapter and come out on the other side with body and sanity intact.

Until next time, this is life on the edge. The edge is getting more and more slippery every day.

Permission to Speak Freely by Anne Jackson

2010-10-30T19:11:00.000-05:00

Anne Jackson posed this question on her blog: What is the one thing yu feel you cannot say in church?" brought in an avalanche of responses that birthed this book. In 194 pages, Ms Jackson uses art, anecdotes, and poetry to inspire the reader to tell their story.

I loved the layout and texture of this book. It reminded me of an art book but was inviting and inspiring to me. The beautiful artwork and poetry whet my appetite to digest the meat in the book.

Ms. Jackson writes in an open and honest manner and invites the reader to enter her life and learn from her past.

One truth that resonated with me (because it is a major issue I am faced with frequently) was found on page 4: fear wants to stop our stories." I realized I can't let fear stop me from telling my story if it helps one person to gain freedom from whatever bondage they find themself in.

Reading this book reinforced the fact that it is not only important to tell our stories--it is critical that we do,

I recommend this book to anyone who feels that church is too closed to the daily messes of life. The church should be a safe haven where open and honest communication should be able to take place. After all didn't Jesus communicate to the sinners and outcasts of society?

The One Year Choose Your Own Ending Devotional

2010-10-30T11:41:00.000-05:00

I recently received this book from Tyndale in exchange for an honest review.

This is an interactive and engaging devotional geared toward elementary aged children. My kids really enjoyed using this devotional. Each devotional starts with a situation, bible verses, and choices for the ending of the story. My kids have had some very interesting discussions. Through these discussions, each child was able to take something away that will help them in day-to-day life.
This devotional should be helpful for children to learn the right and wrong to behave and know what to do when faced with one of many temptations and pressures kids today face.

I intend to use and reuse this book and recommend it to families with children in this age group.

Seeds of Turmoil by Bryant Wright

2010-10-29T22:48:00.001-05:00

This book covers the Middle East conflict. However, it is more than a historical account, although this history is explained. Wright approaches the conflict from a biblical standpoint. It is well-known this is a religious conflict but how did it originate as a religious conflict.

This book begins with the well-known story of Abraham and God's promise to him that a son would be born to Him. This promised son would be the father of a great nation of God's chosen people. I'm sure you are familiar with Sarah's, Abraham's wife, disbelief and offered him Hagar, her maidservant. Abraham had a son with Hagar which he named Ishmael. Fast forward fifteen years. Sarah and Abraham had their promised son and named him Isaac. After Isaac's birth, Sarah had Abraham run Hagar and Ishmael from their home. God intervened and assured Hagar that Ishmael would live but would be a wandering tribe. From the beginning of this turmoil Wright explains how the trials of Ishmael and Issac endured through the years and how it effect the Middle East conflict today.

Wright examines the situation from Jewish, Muslim and Christian points of view. He presents all views fairly and without bias.

I enjoyed reading this book. Although I knew about the births of Isaac and Ishmael and the roles they played, I enjoyed learning about the many splits brought about by their turmoil.

I believe the Bible is clear about Israel and they are the chosen people of God. He gave them the land and it is theirs today.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review from Booksneeze blogger program.

Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

2010-10-29T22:20:00.000-05:00

Will the world be a better place because you lived?

I have read several books by Max Lucado and enjpoyed each and every one of them. This one is no exception. It is an easy read written Lucado's familiar style of bringing biblical principles to fit out lives today. Lucado uses the book of Acts as the basis for this book. I enjoyed the entire book but Chapter 9 and Chapter 10 really hit home with me.

Chapter 9 challenges us to "Do Good Quietly." When I was in high school (that is too many years ago to remember anything clearly). I do, however, remember one incident clearly. I was valedictorian of my graduating class. Coming from a family of six children did not leave much money for many new clothes. One day while we kids were in school and my parents were at work, someone left a new dress hanging on our door. There was no name of who had left it but it did have a note with my name on it. I still remember what the dress looked like. I never found out who my "angel" was but I do remember her act of kindness. It made a difference in a young girl's life. Because of her kindness I try to pay it forward.

Chapter 10 challenges us to "Stand up for the Have Nots". Sometimes when we see a dirty homeless person we tend to walk the other way. I know I have been guilty of this. We need to step out of comfort zones and do what we can to help someone who does not have as much as we do. Although one person cannot save the world we can help to save one person.

Some of Lucado's other challenges include:
Get out of your shell. We cannot isolate ourselves from the suffering in the world.
Work with others. Individually, we can't do much but as a group of believers working for the same goal we can accomplish much.
Recognize Jesus in needy people. As Jesus said "feed, visit, clothe, and doctor those in need and you do unto me."
Don't give up on people. Don't give up on people. Keep doing good for people even when they seem to be unloveable.

I found this book to be inspirational and motivating. I whole-heartedly recommend this book to anyone who wants to make their life count for the good of humanity. I enjoyed the book so much I purchased the participant's guide to the book.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review of this book from Booksneeze, Thomas Nelson's blogger review program.

The Miracle of Mercy Land by River Jordan

2010-10-29T10:06:00.000-05:00

"I was born in a bolt of lightning on Bittersweet Creek." This begins the fascinating journey of Mercy Land. The daughter of a preacher in rural Alabama, Mercy decides she wants more out of life. Her Aunt Ida lovingly encouraged her to spread her wings and move to Bay City, a picturesque little coastal town. Here she finds work as a waitress. She then goes to work for Doc, the editor-in-chief of the town's newspaper, the Banner. She soon masters her job and is known locally as Doc's girl. Her life is fairly routine until one early morning call from Doc.

A mystical and somewhat magical book has appeared on Doc's desk sometime during the night. This book displayed the details of the lives of the residents of Bay City. It showed the choices each individual made and how it had affected the lives of those around them. This book sends Mercy and Doc on different quests to find the purpose the book was left with them. Mercy is searching for the purpose of the book while Doc is trying to rectify a long ago error.

I have never read any of River Jordan's books before but I can tell you this will not be my last. This book was spell-binding and at the same time thought-provoking. What if we were given a chance to see how our choices and decisions have affected our current situations and the situations of the people around us. Perhaps a more interesting question would be: What if we were given a second chance to change our past?

This book reinforces the fact that whatever path we take in life has a lasting impact on the world. That, my friend, is a sobering thought.

I have no hesitation in recommending this book to others. My only advice would be: clear your calendar before you open this book because once you open it you will not want to do anything else until the book is finished.

I received this book from Waterbrook Press in exchange for an honest review of this book. I received no other compensation.

My Life is a Sitcom

2010-10-13T09:04:00.001-05:00

Well, today started off with a BANG!. Tori, my teenager, overslept and missed the bus. This, in itself is not new for her. I woke up the other three and finally got then settled in the car. So far so good. I got her to school on time--nothing unusual yet. When I got her to school, however, the fiasco started. The high school was being evacuated because of a bomb threat. After sitting in traffic for over ten minutes, letting the high school students cross the street to go to the middle school for safety. Finally I got a chance to leave there and rushed home to get the other three ready for school. Of course, this put me behind my regular schedule. They would have made their bus BUT, my eight year old decided he did like the clothes he was going to wear to school. You can imagine how frazzled I was at this point. After he finally found some clothes to wear (unhappy, of course, because this was still not what he wanted to wear)
I heard their bus whizzing by the house. Great, now I have to take them to school. Finally, getting them into the car and stopping the usual morning arguments, I got them to school. Here the line is extremely long, and I wait another ten minutes to let them out. All the time they are shooting little barbs at each other--you know how kids are not happy unless their siblings are crying. Finally, I got them out of the car and fought my way through another round of traffic.

I am home now and have a to-do list a mile long. But I am already exhausted, so I just might put the list away and go back to bed. What a dream that is! Unfortunately, my list is filled with items that I have already put off as long as I can.

I hope you all have a better day than I have had so far. Oh well, God is in control and is definitely holding my hand today.

Until next time, this is life on the edge. May God open heaven's door and fill your life with blessings today.

When It"s Time to Push the Pause Button

2010-10-12T10:02:00.000-05:00

Often I find myself racing through life trying to get from Point A to Point B in the shortest amount of time. I frantically rush from job to job so I can mark them off my ever-growing “to do list.” The sad thing is for every task I mark off I always add two more to the list.

My family life suffers because of the “hurry-scurry syndrome”. My house never gets completely cleaned, laundry never gets caught up and we’ve eaten take-out so often the workers at McDonald’s know us by name and have our food ready when they see my minivan turn into the parking lot.

With two kids in elementary school, one in half day preschool, and one in high school, I can see no chance of slowing down in the near future. I am a volunteer in the kindergarten class, have two kids in t-ball and one in flag football, and one on the high school softball team. There are numerous practices and games I chauffeur kids to and from. This does not include the many social activities of the teenager. Add to this mix a husband who was injured on the job and has to go to his doctor three hours from home. Although he only has to go once or twice a month, this does add stress to the already hectic life of our family.

Recently, I was reading my morning devotional when I read Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.” I became aware that God was using this devotional reading to tell me to slow down and “smell the roses”. I paused at that point and looked out my window. It was then that I saw the most beautiful awe-inspiring sunrise I had ever seen. I knew than that god was speaking to me.

Since that time I have made a conscious effort to really notice God’s presence and slow down to see that He is still God. I now see the beauty in God’s world. Although I still have as many responsibilities as have always had I now take time to breathe the awesome gifts God presents to me every day.

Time4Learning

2010-10-05T18:22:00.000-05:00

I received a month's free subscription to Time4Learning in exchange for a canbdid review of the site. I found this site to be very educational for my grandkids. They enjoyed using the site to reinforce their learning at school. I found the parents' section very helpful in helping with homework and reinforcement lessons.

I recommend this site to parents' wanting to give their children additional resources in their education.

The website is http://www.time4learning.com/. I think you will be impressed with this website.

A Day In the Life

2010-10-04T18:34:00.000-05:00

The morning started out as chaotic as any other morning at my house. After three attempts to wake Tori for school, she finally stumbled out of bed and into the bathroom. I then went to find clothes for the other kids. Glancing at my watch I found I had a few minutes to spare. I decided to check my email. I discovered an email from an old friend and decided to answer it right away. Before I knew it, Tori’s bus was coming up the road. I ran to her room to tell her good-bye before she left. Imagine my dismay when I found her in front of her mirror and her bus already gone.

By this time the other kids were up and already fighting. I managed to stop the fighting long enough to herd them all to the car to take Tori to school. Another fight then erupted over who was going to sit in what seat. I assigned the seats and got everyone buckled in and ready to go. By this time I was so stressed and frazzled I must admit I lost my temper and began yelling at the kids. After this totally messy scene I apologized but the damage was already done. Everyone was in a bad mood and the ride to school was punctuated with crying and sighs.

After I dropped Tori off I knew I had to rush to get the others dressed and on their bus. Finally with showers done and the kids dressed, I began to relax a little until the cries of “I’m hungry” began. There was no time for a “real” breakfast but I did have some toaster pastries in the cupboard. I ran and grabbed these and gave one to each of the kids. Now it was time for their bus so we hurriedly ran out the door just in time to see the bus coming up the road. Frantically, I got the kids on the bus and went into the house totally exhausted already. When I collapsed in my chair and leaned my head back to relax for jus t a minute my dog jumped into my lap. I had forgotten to feed him in all the chaos of the morning. After feeding him and sitting back down , I heard the still small voice begin to speak to me.

“My child, why are you so angry with Tori this morning? You were the one who was distracted and lost track of your time. If you had used those spare minutes to visit with me instead of answering that email, your mind would have been more rested and centered on the right things. I’ve seen you so many mornings rushing to do all that needs to be done for the kids. I wait for you to ask me for help but you are too busy trying to do it all in your own strength. Don’t you know by now that I am here for you? Just ask me and I will bring peace to your heart.”

I realized that I had been trying to do everything on my own. “Please Lord forgive me. Sometimes I get so caught up in my life I so often forget you are there for me.”

I would like to tell you that was the last hectic morning of getting the kids to school on time. I would also love to tell you that from that moment on I became the picture of the totally “cool, calm and collected” woman. I would love to tell that the first thing each morning I sat down and asked God to take over my day and give me the grace and patience I need with the kids. I would love to tell you that—but I can’t. Mornings at my house are still rushed and chaotic. But on the mornings that I do spend with God in prayer I find I am able to handle the chaos with a calmer heart and a peaceful mind.

Today’s Whisper:

How many days start out hectic? If you spend the first few minutes with your Heavenly Father do you think the day would start out calmer? Write out a prayer to God to help you remember to start your day right. Trust me—the highly frazzled female that prayer does make a difference in our day.

Today’s Prayer:

Father, help me to remember that you are in control of my life. I do not need to spin my wheels trying to do everything in my own power. You are there to help me. You are always waiting for me to ask for your help. You are always ready to guide my steps. I just need to ask. I love you.

You Can Run But You Can't Hide

2010-10-03T14:26:00.000-05:00

I have a small Pug , Pugsley. I love him and he is a good dog with the kids. But I have to say he does have a stubborn streak and when he wants to do something he will do it regardless of the consequences.

One problem I’ve had with him is he frequently runs outside anytime the door is open. Now this doesn’t sound like a big problem but it is a dangerous situation for Pugsley, as well as me and the kids. You see we live on busy road with a lot of curves and hills. Cars are constantly speeding by our house. Can you see where I am heading with this line of thought? You’re right. As soon as Pugsley gets out he immediately heads for the road. Several times cars have actually had to stop in order to avoid hitting him. This frightens me because I am afraid the kids will run out into the street to get him and be hit by a speeding car. Now Pugsley is a good dog but when he is on one of his “adventures” he totally ignores me when I call his name. He wants to play and will stop long enough for me to get within arms’ length and then start running wanting me to chase him.

One morning he escaped when the kids went out to catch the school bus. This was a cold morning and I still had my robe on so running was a bit difficult. I tried for about twenty minutes to catch him—I might add—I looked a bit like a crazy woman to the neighbors . I was running around the neighbors’ yards and sneaking from behind trees and buildings. Finally I gave up and decided to go in out of the cold. When I went inside my house I quietly prayed, “God, please take care of that silly dog.” Immediately, I felt a tugging in my heart and knew God was telling me something. I sat down and replied, “What are you trying to tell me, God?” I then heard Him whisper to me. “My child I love you but sometimes you are like Pugsley. Sometimes you ignore my voice and find yourself in dangerous situations. You could avoid so much pain if you would listen when I call out to you. Just as you love Pugsley and want to protect him I am always there to protect you if you would just listen to me and call out to me.”

With tears in my eyes I realized god was right. Sometimes I give in to the temptations to ignore my heavenly Father and “do my own thing.” It is during these times of “childish rebellion” that I suffer more pain and heartache than I need to. I know He is always watching over me and protecting me even when I selfishly ignore His voice.

In case you are wondering If Pugsley ever came back home. About five minutes later I heard him scratching at the door wanting to come in. I would like to say Pugsley never escaped again. But I can’t. I would also like to say I never took things in my own hands again and ignored God again. But I can’t say that either. I sometimes still try to “do my own thing” and ignore God calling to me. However, I know God will never leave me and will always watch over me. He loves me enough to let me go my own way but He loves me too much to let me stay away from His sheltering arms. Just like Pugsley will always come home I will always return to my loving Father’s arms.

Today’s Whisper:

Have you ever tried to run and hide from God? What happened? Did you prosper or find more heartache? Take a few minutes to write about your experience.

Today’s Prayer:

Father, I am so thankful you love me enough to let me experience “life on my own.” But I thank you that you never leave me on my own. You have promised never to leave me or forsake me. I love you and am so thankful for your love and mercy.

The Great Possum Caper

2010-09-23T08:48:00.001-05:00

One day my husband fixed a leak under the commode in my bathroom. Being the handynan he is, he cut a small hole in the floor to make it easier to reach the pipe. Fine--no problem--leak fixed. Now he will fix the hole and life goes on-right? Wrong! He decided to leave the hole for a few days to make sure the leak has been permanently fixed. Now that few days has turned into months. Although it is a small hole, I have tried my best to conceal it but there is just so much I can do to make a hole in the floor attractive..

Now fast forward about six montbs. The hole is still there even though I have done all I can to conceal/decorate it. But it is still there.

One night I stumble into bed exhausted after transporting four kids to four different activities as well as the usual daily struggles of running a household with four kids. Around 2:00 in the morning my little dog woke me up with frantic barking and yelping. I forced one eye open to see him jumping up and down on the floor by my bed. He looked at me as if to say, "I'm trying to protect you, now come on and do your part." When I did manage to stumble into the bathroom I was instantly awake. There between the commode and the waste can was a possum. Pugsley, my dog had him trapped. I could not move because I was totally in shock until Pugsley barked again as if to say,"See I told you. Now get rid of it. I'm tired and want to go to sleep."

Frantically, I woke my husband and screamed, "THERE'S A POSSUM IN MY BATHROOM! GET UP AND KILL IT!" He looked at me as though he thought I had totally lost my mind.

"Ok, get me something to use to kill it," he calmly said. I ran to my grandson's room and came back with a ball bat. I gave the bat to hubby and jumped on my bed and covered my eyes. I could hear the battle raging on in the bathroom. "Hiss!" "Pow!" "Ka Pow!" "Boom!" Finally all was silent so I opened my eyes. There on the floor lay the lifeless body of the intruder. I carefully picked it up by the tail and placed it into a plastic bag and ran to throw it into the outside garbage can.

I was finally able to fall back to sleep but the bathroom light was left on for the rest of the night.

I bet you thought this was the end of the story. WRONG! While going about my daily chores the next morning, my grandkids came running to me with excitement written all over their faces. "Nanny, Nanny, Nanny (all three were talking at once. There is a possum in our garbage can and he is alive!" I went out to see what what was happening and sure enough when I raised the lid of the can, I could see two beady little eyes staring up at me. I don't know what eventually happened to this wayward creature. The kids think he escaped and is now living happily ever after with his family. I hope so. But at least he is not living his life with my family.

The next morning when I sat down for my morning visit with God, I asked Him, as I always do "What do you want to talk about today Father?" His answer came as a total surprise to me. "I want to talk about the possum."

"What about the possum?" I asked in astonishment.

"That was a small hole in your floor wasn't it?"

"Yes, it was a very small hole." I answered, not sure where this conversation was going but definitely intrigued by it.

"Well that possum was able to come into your house through that small hole, wasn't he?"

"Yeah," I slowly answered.

"Just like that possum squeezing though such a small opening in your floor that was unguarded, the enemy can enter your heart through a small unguarded hole in your heart. Just as that intruding animal filled you with dread, the enemy can fill your heart with fears and worries. When he does that you do not fully trust me to care for you."

Suddenly, I understood what He was telling me. We must always guard our hearts against the enemy that roams around trying to find who he can devour. Satan doesn't need a door with a welcome sign, he enters through a hole he finds unguarded. Don't make it easy for him to enter your heart. Fill your heart with joy and love and trust in a heavenly Father who loves you unconditionally and will never leave you unprotected.

Oh, by the way--the hole in my floor has been fixed!

Time Goes On and On

2010-09-22T11:06:00.000-05:00

I still do not feel up to my old self but I am slowly getting there. I have decided that I cannot do all things for all people and am going on strike by doing only what I feel I am able to do.

I still love my kids more than anything but somethings have to be eliminated or I will totally lose my mind. Hey, I know a bit part of that is missing already but I need to keep what little I have left. I want to thank all of you who prayed for me--don't stop now.

Remember God is in control and He is holding me up.

When Life is Hard

2010-09-19T11:31:00.000-05:00

Some days it seems as though there is nothing I can do that is right. The kids are grouchy when they get up for school and things go down hill from there. I know you have all had days like this. Usually mornings like this come on the heels of nights that seem so long and sleep evades me. I have a clock that reflects the time on the ceiling. Some nights I find myself gazing at this clock and thinking it has stopped because time seems to drag by. A wonderful clock for an insomniac for sure. Lately, I have been going through a time when depression is my constant companion. I don't mean to bring you all down and discouraged when my purpose is to be an encouragement. I'm sure God is teaching me something about myself but I just haven't learned the lesson yet.

I just need your prayers and understanding as I go through this tough time. Remember, Moses was once a basket case.

LOL with God by Pam Farrel and Dawn Wilson

2010-09-08T15:29:00.000-05:00

In this devotional of hope and humor for women, I found the hope consistent and the humor very uplifting. Some of the devotionals seemed to speak right to my heart and helped me through a tough time. Each devotional consists of a bible verse, a short story to make the point of the devotional, a short prayer, a place to write your own thoughts, bible verses called "text helps" and a short humorous story called LOL.

Although I found the book to be very enlightening I do confess the "text" verses at the beginning of each devo was a bit puzzling at times. However, I did concentrate on the verses because I had to decipher them.

I enjoyed reading this book and will recommend it to others.

I received this book from Tyndale publishers in exchange for an honest review of the book.

Why Do Something Now When You Can Put It Off?

2010-09-07T15:30:00.000-05:00

Well, I've put this post off as long as I can. I guess I will write it and get it off my to do list. Today I had to go to the doctor for a physical exam. Something else I have put off for too long. I hoped that if I waited long enough I would automatically feel better--well, that did not happen. So...........now I have to have more tests and more blood drawn. Procrastination never benefits me but I keep doing it anyway. Maybe I subconsciously wait because I get a "high" by barely making a deadline or maybe I am just old and lazy. Laziness is probably the reason for my procrastination. I have intended to research the scientific reasons for this problem but just have not gotten around to it.

Well, I have put off washing my dishes long enough so I guess I had better do that now. I will post more when that is done. That is, if I can find the time to.

Until then, see ya later on the edge.

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews

2010-09-07T14:24:00.000-05:00

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!!! This is the message of the book by Andy Andrews. What decision we make today or what action we take will have an effect on other people for generations.

I believe that what happens to us happens for a reason and some of these events happen because someone years ago made a decision that brought about our situation. Mr. Andrews relates the story of Col Chamberlain who made a decision in the Civil War that affected our country. Because of that decision we have a United States of America and not a divided country.

This book will cause you to stop and think about every decision you make. It is truly a thought provoking book. Although it is a small volume in size it contains more truths that a book with thousands of pages. It will make a wonderful gift for family or friends that have made a difference in your life. However, I will buy another copy for a gift. I plan to keep my copy to read over and over especially when I feel the "What's the use" monster creep into my thoughts. I will read this tiny book and realize that what I do does make a difference and my actions ARE important.

The book is very attractive in appearance and very well illustrated. I will definitely recommend this book.

I received this book from Thomas Nelson in exchange for an honest and open review.

The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews

2010-09-07T12:17:00.001-05:00

This is a wonderful story for children. Mr. Andrews' is a master storyteller and through this book children can learn that they can make a difference in the world. This book carries a thought provoking question to everyone who reads it. I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. MY LIFE COUNTS. What an awesome message to send to our children. We all need to know that our lives count and effect others.

The illustrations are very well done and are of good quality. I applaud the illustrator for the work that went into each and every one of them.

I have read several of Mr. Andrews' books and have never been disappointed. I do recommend this book to anyone who has children or has contact with children in any way. Our children need to know that their lives count and what decision they make or action they take today can have far reaching effects on not only the people they know today but for generations to come.

I received this book from Thomas Nelson in exchange for an honest review.

Captured By Grace by Dr. David Jeremiah

2010-09-06T15:26:00.000-05:00

Amazing Grace. I have heard this song since I was a child but had never thought about it in the way Dr. Jeremiah has explained it. He tells the life stories of Saul who persecuted early christians and John Newton who dealt with the slave trade. Through retelling these men's life stories Dr. Jeremiah demonstrates that grace can touch each and every life. He dissects each verse and relates the effect grace has on each and every one of us.

I found the story of Victoria Ruvolo fascinating. If only we could be show the grace she did toward her "attacker." I found this book very interesting and enlightening. In parts of the book, I felt as though Dr. Jeremiah were speaking directly to me. I will highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know the depth of God's grace. I will "lend" my copy to family and friends but I plan to keep this book ro reread time and again.

Times Flies When You Are Having Fun

2010-08-28T15:42:00.000-05:00

Well, school has started again and life is returning to "normal". By this I mean I spend all day cleaning and five minutes after the kids get home, you can't tell I have done anything. When they ask me, "nanny, what have you done all day?" it is not a smart aleck question but because they have destroyed my whole day's work, they actually want to know. I think I will take pictures and post them on the wall so when they ask me that question--I can point to the picture and they will have their answer.

Frequently, I will become so busy with my work that I do lose track of time and before you know it that same yellow bus that takes them away will bring them home again. This seems to be happening earlier and earlier in the day lately, I have looked at my watch and think that it is running 2-3 hours too fast until I stop and see the show that is on tv. and realize that the day is almost over. You know what the old saying is "time flies when you're having fun." I guess that is true because while I am cleaning up after the little darlins' I find myself remembering the good times and fun we have had. Remembering the good times does make the mundane chores go by faster. The next time you find yourself scrubbing up a sticky floor or washing a dirty load of laundry say a little prayer of thanks that the kids who made the mess are in your life.

Latte Daze by erynn mangum

2010-08-26T10:53:00.000-05:00

Maya Davis' life is complicated. Her ex-boyfriend is engaged to her roommate and best friend, she is barista at Cool Beans, and her brother and sister-in-law have just announced they are pregnant. Then there is Jack, her co-worker and friend who might be falling in love with her. Does she love him? After all they have been friends since second grade. When she thinks her life could not get more complicated, her roommate's totally obnoxious mom moves into the apartment to help plan the wedding--or does she have a more sinister agenda?

Told with humor and fun, this story will keep you wondering what will happen next. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and plan to read more by this author. erynn's light-hearted, down to earth style will leave you wanting more. Her brand of humor is like caffeine--addictive and at the same time satisfying. You will come away from this book with a fresh and rejuvenated look at life, love, and friendships.

I will recommend this writer's works to family and friends.

This book was given to me by NavPress in exchange for an honest review.

Flight to Heaven by Capt. Dale Black

2010-08-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Reading Flight to Heaven reinforced the fact that God is who He says He is and we serve an awesome God.

The sole survivor of a catastrophic plane would crash would be amazing on its own merit but Capt. Black's story doesn't end there--in fact it begins at that point. Capt Black is taken on an awesome journey to Heaven and shown what Heaven is like. This experience sends him on a life-long journey of faith that will forever change his life.

Written in an inspirational and motivational style that captured my attention from the first page to the last page. This book will renew your faith in God and trigger a homesickness for Heaven.

I found Capt. Black to be very credible and real. He did not embellish his experience for sensationalism but told his story in a straightforward and candid manner.

I recommend this book to anyone who wants to know what lies ahead when we reach Heaven. I could not put this book down until the last word on the last page was read. My reaction: WOW! I do serve an awesome and magnificent God.

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven by Kevin and Alex Malarkey

2010-08-18T21:10:00.000-05:00

I received this book from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

After a tragic car accident left Alex with injuries so severe no one thought he could survive, God worked miracles that everyone in awe. Alex was in a coma for months while family, friends, and complete strangers prayed for his recovery and healing.

After coming out of the coma, Alex related a story to his father that his father initially had trouble comprehending. It is only after Alex reported what had happened at the accident scene and later in the hospital that Kevin could grasp the immensity of his son's experience. Alex told his father that he had visited Heaven and spoken with God. But this is not the only contact Alex had with angels during his recovery. He relates his experiences with these heavenly creatures in such intimate detail, the reader is left feeling as though the angels are in the room while he is reading the book.

The book kept me riveted to each page from the first page to the last. I am a christian and reading Alex's description reinforced for me the fact that God does take care of His children and never leaves us. I will (and have) recommended this family and friends.

Thank You

2010-08-14T21:27:00.000-05:00

I want to say "thank you," to my readers who nominated me for the 2010 top CSAHM blog. I was pleasantly surprised to learn of my nomination and selection for the award. I hope that what you read on my blog will be encouraging in some way to you--if only to say "Thank you Lord, that I am not living her life." See, I can encourage you and you can find something to be thankful for in any of life's struggles.

Again I want to say a heartfelt "thanks" to each and everyone of you. May God fill your blessing basket to overflowing.

Time4Learning

2010-08-06T14:28:00.000-05:00

I’ve been invited to try Time4Learning for one month in exchange for a candid review. My opinion will be entirely my own, so be sure to come back and read about my experience. Time4Learning can be used as a homeschool curriculum, for afterschool enrichment and for summer skill sharpening. Find out how to write your own curriculum review for Time4Learning.

The Edge of the Divine by Sandy Patty

2010-07-22T11:57:00.001-05:00

In this book Sandy Patty is honest and open about her stumbles in her Christian walk. She candidly talks about her struggles and consequences of poor decisions in her past and her ongoing struggles with her weight.

I appreciated Ms. Patty's straightforward method of letting the reader know her inner thoughts and struggles. She presents the details of her past like an invitation to her life. Her writing style is conversational and easy to follow. Reading this book is like talking to an old friend I haven't seen in a while. The way she spoke of "the edge" hit a note with me because when I named my blog "life on the edge" that is the meaning I had in mind.

I recommend this book to anyone who is facing trials in their life either from poor decisions in their past or perhaps a physical problem they are enduring. This book is for anyone who is "on the edge" wondering which side of the cliff they will land on.

This book was provided by Booksneeze (Thomas Nelson) in exchange for an honest review.

No Man is an Island

2010-07-16T12:05:00.000-05:00

Friends, I have just been diagnosed with moderate COPD. I have to stop something that I have been doing for over half my life--smoking. I cannot do this alone. I need your prayers. This is the first post I have written asking for something. But I do need and want your prayers. If anyone has tips please send them to me.

I know I am not alone in this. My Father is with me. Thank you all so much for being my friends.

Root, Root, Root For the Home Team

2010-07-15T10:34:00.001-05:00

I came across this on the internet today. It is not only a good story but at this time of year, it seems to fit. My kids' seasons are almost over but I do admit I have enjoyed watching them play.

Root, root, root for the home team! I’m not sure who wrote this story but they creatively captured the reality of grace!

Freddy and the Lord stood by to observe a baseball game. The Lord's team was playing Satan's team. The Lord's team was at bat, the score was tied zero to zero, and it was the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs. They continued to watch as a batter stepped up to the plate whose name was Love. Love swung at the first pitch and hit a single, because Love never fails. The next batter was named Faith, who also got a single because Faith works with Love. They had runners at first and third with two outs. The next batter up was named Godly Wisdom. Satan wound up and threw a fast ball. Godly Wisdom looked it over and let it pass: Ball one. Three more pitches, one slider, one curve and another fast ball --- Godly Wisdom walked on four straight pitches --- because Godly Wisdom never swings at what Satan throws.The bases were now loaded. The Lord then turned to Freddy and told him He was going to bring in His star player as a pinch hitter. Up to the plate stepped Grace. Freddy said, "He sure doesn't look like much!" Satan's whole team relaxed when they saw Grace. Thinking he had only one more easy out to win the game. Satan wound up and fired his first pitch. To the shock of everyone, Grace hit the ball harder than anyone had ever seen. But Satan was not worried; his center fielder was an All-Star. He went up for the ball, but it went right through his glove, hit him on the head and sent him crashing to the ground; then the ball continued on its bounce over the fence for a home run! The Lord's team won!

Blind Hope: An Unwanted Dog and the Woman She Rescued by Kim Meeder and Laurie Sacher

2010-07-13T18:35:00.000-05:00

Blind Hope is a powerful story of love. We are taken on a journey with Kim Meeder and Laurie Sacher. It is a journey of love for a dirty unkempt dog Laurie rescues from an abusive home. When she rescued the dog she named Mia, she did not know how much this little dog could teach her about love and God's grace.

Laurie had sought love and acceptance from other people. She would hide her true self and put on masks she thought others wanted to see. It was only when she brought Mia home with her did she really learn true acceptance. Because of Mia's peace and contentment in spite of going blind, Laurie learned to lean on God to bring her to the understanding of her past and hope for her future.

I enjoyed reading this book because it also helped me to listen to God and lean on Him more in my own struggles. I recommend this book to others who are animal loves but also to others who need to listen to God's teachings through everyday life and living. I intend to keep this book to read again and again when I find myself trying to live life on my terms.

This book was given to me by Multnomah Waterbrook in exchange for an honest review.

Hot by Laura L. Smith

2010-07-12T10:55:00.000-05:00

Lindsey has emerged from an ugly duckling to a beautiful young woman who dresses like a model. She should be happy but inside she feels empty. Her parents are so caught up with her rebellious sister and Lindsey feels alone. She thinks no one understands her until she meets Noah. He possesses a calm confidence and Lindsey wants this for herself.

She finds herself caught up in world of popularity, fashion and boys. She is torn between values she has grown up with and the temptations that face our teenagers today. She is haunted by questions that she cannot find answers to. Will Lindsey discover what matters most before she becomes even more entangled in the new world she has discovered?

This book will be an invaluable addition to any teenage girl's library. I recommend that parents read this book to understand the problems and questions that face our young girls today. I recommend this book highly and am looking forward to reading other books by this author.

I received a free copy of Hot from Navpress in exchange for an open and honest review.

New Site

2010-07-10T10:22:00.000-05:00

Friends, I have started a new site for my original writings. I will still keep this site updated and post here but visit my other site and hopefully be encouraged there as well. The new site is http://ritingsandramblings.web.com/. Come on over and enjoy.

The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews

2010-07-08T00:40:00.000-05:00

While Andy Andrews was digging up a tree beside his home on the Gulf Coast, he found a rusty can containing Nazi artifacts. This whetted his appetite to find the story behind these rare findings. He interviewed neighbors and other residents of his home town until he was able to piece together the story behind his amazing discovery.

During WW II Germany dispatched submarines and U Boats to the Gulf to sink US vessels filled with supplies for the war. These attacks and the people involved form the basis for The Heart Mender. Lives of both German soldiers and the residents of the Gulf Coast intertwine to bring the story to life.

Helen Mason has recently lost her husband to the war. She has not recovered from her loss and was walking late one night along the beach. She soon discovers a wounded man lying on the beach. Angered when she sees his German uniform she decides to leave him there to die. But when she hears an unusual pharase he utters she changes her mind and helps him to her home to nurse him back to health.

The Heart Mender is set agains a backdrop of angry suspicions. Struggles faced by the people touched by the war are chronicled. It is a story of how people were forced to face fears of the future and ghosts of the past in order to survive the frightening present.

Although I am not an avid reader of war stories this book captured my interest and refused to release it. It is more than a story of war; it is a story of forgiveness and redemption. I do recommend this book. I have read several of Andrews' books and was not disappointed by this one.

After reading this book I did some research of my own and discovered the U-Boat mentioned in The Heart Mender was found sunk in the Gulf. In fact it is very close to the current oil spill. If you would like to read more of this interesting period in our country's history go to www.andyandrews.com. I don't think you will be disappointed.

Summer Fun

2010-07-07T19:24:00.001-05:00

I have really enjoyed watching my future all star ball players make home runs one time at bat and strike out the next time. But I have 2 more games and the summer season of baseball, t-ball and softball will be over for another month. My 3 youngest will be starting "fall" ball in August but I will get a week or 2 before the excitement starts again. But wait--after fall ball comes flag football and cheerleading. I have a very athletic bunch of kids. But the kids have a very worn out nanny. Still I enjoy watching them have fun and learn teamwork and socialization that these sports can provide. I do have to admit that it is wearing me out but if God did not think I was up to the task He would not have trusted me with it.

I know He has a sense of humor because I can hear Him laughing but He is not laughing at me-He is laughing with me as I watch the outrageous activities of these precious young ones. I see Him smiling down at me and reassuring me that He knows what He is doing and this is the plan He has for me. When I feel weary and worn out from the day to day chores I must do to make their lives memorable and their childhoods happy, I hear Him say, "My child, I am always with you. Just lean on me and I will give you rest."

That is the reason, friends, that I keep putting one foot in front of the other and plug along each day. Without Him by my side, I know I would fail but just knowing He is here energizes me daily.

I do ask for your prayers though. I have to have some tests done next week on my heart and lungs. I am a little concerned but I know He is in control and will take care of me and my darlins'.

Until tomorrow, this is how it is with life on the edge. May God bless and continue to bless you every day.

Hand of Fate by Lis Wiehl with April Henry

2010-07-06T12:21:00.000-05:00

Outspoken radio host Jim Fate has made enemies with his outspoken style. Many of these enemies are high powered political figures so when he is murdered in his own studio there is no shortage of suspects.

The triple threat, FBI special agent Nicole Hodges, crime reporter, Cassidy Shaw and Federal prosecutor Allison Pierce begin sorting through the list of Fate's enemies he had in order to piece together the reason for his murder as well as the murderer. The case presents a special challenge because one of the three has social ties to Fate and the other two have their own issues and demons to deal with. As they get closer to the identity of the killer, each of their lives are changed and the issues take on larger roles in their lives.

This book is a true page turner. It will keep you guessing the motive and identity of the murderer but you will be taken by surprise when the crime is solved. I will offer a word of warning: unless you want to stay awake all night reading, don't open this book at bedtime.

I found the plot totally realistic and possible. The characters are real and deal with issues that can face each one of us. I do recommend this book to anyone that loves a good mystery. I am looking forward to reading more books by these authors.

This copy was given to me by Thomas Nelson (BookSneeze) in exchange for an honest review on the book.

Another Fourth Of July Celebrated

2010-07-05T12:08:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated another birthday for our wonderful country. As we ate hamburgers, hot dogs and all the other foods that make up a successful cook out and finished the day with parades and fireworks displays, I hope each of us took a moment to think about the sacrifices made to keep us free. I watched fireworks with my children. As I watched the beautiful display I felt the sudden urge to thank God for my blessings. I thanked Him for placing these children in my life and His trust in me that I am up to the task of bringing them up to love Him as much as I do. I thanked Him for the privilege of living in this wonderful country where so many freedoms are ours for the taking. I heard this song by Lee Greenwood that expresses my feelings about the wonderful privilege that is available to me and to all of us who call the United States our home.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

God Bless the USA

If tomorrow all the things were gone I'd worked for all my life,
And I had to start again with just my children and my wife,
I'd thank my lucky stars to be living here today,
'Cause the flag still stands for freedom and they can't take that away.'

I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free,
And I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me,
And I gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today,
Cause there isn't no doubt I love this land God Bless the U.S.A.

From the lakes of Minnesota to the hills of Tennessee,
Across the plains of Texas from sea to shining sea.
From Detroit down to Houston and New York to L.A.,
There's pride in every American heart and it's time we stand and say:

I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free,
And I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me,
And I gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today,
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land God Bless the U.S.A.

Life or Something Like It

2010-06-26T23:31:00.000-05:00

Well, here I sit at 11:30 at night trying to recuperate from the day. Ballgame at 9:00 this morning which wasn't so bad. I did find a tree to hibernate under to get out of the heat. But the game at 2:00 this afternoon was another story-heat that totally left me drained of energy. But when I looked up to see 4 kids covered in mud from the top of their heads to the bottoms of their feet I really felt totally defeated. The manager of the ball park told them they could run in the sprinklers to stay cool. But, when the sprinklers were turned off, the little darlins' decided to just roll in the mud. Can you imagine 4 little mud pies walking to the car--with upholstered seats. Welllllllllllllllll you can imagine my temperature rising (and not just from the summer sun). I took the darlins' home and hosed them off before I let them come into the house. Now, I can just hear your thoughts--"that's mean, how can she do that to kids?" Just remember they had been running through water for fun. But you are right, you would have thought I was killing them. I once read that "whatever don't kill you will make you stronger" so I think me and the kids are getting stronger every day.

Until next time just be glad you are not on the edge. Ain't life grand!!!!!!!

Unburdened by Chris Tiegreen

2010-06-24T13:49:00.000-05:00

This book was a complimentary copy from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

This book details how to live an unburdened life by "letting go and giving your worries to God." I found this book to be encouraging because I too often have trouble giving my fears and burdens over to Him. I know this is what God wants us to do and even commands it--it is difficult to do. Tiegreen's suggestions and anecdotes will help me to remember that He is always ready to take my cares but I must first give them to Him.

As Tiegreen states at the beginning of the book, "The unburdened life is less about getting rid of our baggage than about carrying our loads with ease". This book does not teach us how to get rid of responsibility or become detached and uncaring about what is happening to us and our loved ones. It will teach you how to take our cares to the One that is always waiting for us.

I will recommend this book to others because it is encouraging and should be on every bookshelf. I plan to return to the book oftn when I feel overwhelmed by life.

Lazy Summer Days vs Crazy Summer Days

2010-06-22T10:33:00.001-05:00

A lazy summer day is lying in a hammock
drinking ice tea and reading a book.

A crazy summer day is trying to get five kids
to stop jumping on the furniture.

A lazy summer day is like a day in heaven
where even the dog will not be demanding

A crazy summer day is trying to feed the dog
while a cyclone of kids are running through the kitchen.

A lazy summer day is a day at the beach
with the warm sun and gentle breeze kissing your skin.

A crazy summer day is fighting the water the
kids are throwing out of the bath tub at an imaginery spider.

Although I dream of lazy summer days I have to face it my reality is more like the crazy summer days. But what good would a lazy summer day be without the kids to add spice to the days of our life.

I will have ample time for the lazy summer days when the kids are grown. Although by then I will be too old to climb into the hammock. Ah well, life is life after all.

Which would you choose? A lazy summer day alone or a crazy summer day with the boundless energy of kids around.

Maybe for just one day hmmm.....................................

Summer, Hot Dogs, and Baseball

2010-06-19T19:32:00.001-05:00

Well friends, it has been a busy summer. With four kids in t-ball, baseball, and softball I have been running and running. Some nights I do believe I have met myself sometimes "running in all directions". There have been nights that I have had to be in three places at once. Don't ask me how but I have managed to get everyone where they needed to be at the time they were supposed to be there (o.k. sometimes one of the darlins' has been a few minutes late). Last weekend was the annual little league picnic. That meant three games at once plus (I don't know what I was thinking) I volunteered to help at a game. I must have been in the sun too long. You know a little heat stroke or brain dysfunction. Whatever, I did make it through all eight hours of being out in the sun amid all the screaming and running--I don't know what the kids did. Just kidding. I did push a little kid out of the small amount of shade under a tree. Hey, she was young and could handle the heat better than me. Besides the stroller stopped before it hit the water. People have got to learn--don't get between an old woman and a shade tree when the temperature is 95.

OK, time to feed my brood. I had three extra mouths to feed last night and just one to feed tonight so maybe my luck is changing.

Until next time friends, this is life on the edge.

Storm Warning by Billy Graham

2010-06-09T19:58:00.000-05:00

"Tsunami kills thousands"
"Earthquakes rumble and wreak havoc for millions."
"Terrorists attack on U.S. soil."
"Largest oil spill un history."

Headlines grab our attention. Videos of disasters play on tv screens continuously. Every day we see or read about devastations the world over. Famines, wars, homeless, diseases that kill both the body and spirit of the world's peoples vie for our attention. As Billy Graham states in his newest book--"the hoof beats can be heard rushing toward us now."J30H63AW5

Mr. Graham, world renowned preacher and evangelist takes us on a tour of the biblical book of Revelation. Through the visions of John on the isle of Patmos, Mr. Graham explains the four horsemen and what each one represents. Through the journeys of the Israelites, we see what happened when God's warnings went unheeded.

God is warning us today to repent and turn back to Him before it is too late. If we do not heed these warnings we must face the consequences of our failures. According to Mr. Graham, much of the biblical prophecies are unfolding in the world today.

I have not really read Revelation because, to be honest, I was frightened by the symbolisms. But with Mr. Graham's explanation and clarity in his writing I will read Revelation because I see the good news for the sincere believer.

I will recommend this book to friends and family. It is a thought provoking and eye opening book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Book Sneeze in exchange for an honest review of the book.

Summer is Here

2010-06-07T13:38:00.000-05:00

Summer is here now. The kids are home for vacation and the house never gets cleaned as it should. I have had computer problems too so I am really living on the edge. I had to replace the computer but now maybe my sanity will return.

I hope to stay in contact with my blogging friends and hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather. I was at the Gulf Coast last week and saw a lot of the effects of the oil spill. My prayers are with all the families involved and pray that this will soon be just a page in history.

Until next time------I am still living "on the edge". and sliding closer all the time.

The Last Christian by David Gregory

2010-05-27T15:14:00.001-05:00

About the author:

David Gregory is a best-selling author. His best-sellers include Dinner With a Perfect Stanger, and A Day With a Perfect Stranger.

After a ten year business career, he returned to school to study religion and communciations. He earned Masters degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary and University of North Texas. He lives in the Pacific Northwest.

The Book:

It is 2088. Abigail (Abby) Caldwell has lived in the jungle of New Guinea for the entire thirty-four years of life. After a cryptic message from her grandfather, she emerges from the jungle and travels to the United States. She must, according to her grandfather, bring Christianity back to America.

This is the story of Abby's life in a society that is completely foreign to her. She must not only acclimate herself to an alien culture but fulfil the purpose for which God has called her. As she navigates through this complex world, she faces a sinsiter force that threatens not only her life but the world itself. A brilliant neuroscientist has developed silicon brains and is now transplanting these brains into humans. This technological development will allow humans to live forever.

Along with Creighton Daniels, a historian who is trying to understand his own father's death, Abby must not only bring Christianity back to the United States but fight for her life.They are the targets of the sinister men who will stop at nothing to ensure their evil plan is not foiled.

I found this book to be a true thriller and a definite page-turner. The ddventures and dangers that Abby experiences kept me praying for her success. I found myself thinking about the technological advances of today. Could something like this happen in our future? Is manking capable of bringing about its own doom?

I found this book to be a great read. It is not only entertaining but will force us to really think about our future on this earth. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the future of mankind.

I received a complimentary copy from Waterbrook-Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.

Life Goes On and On and On..........................

2010-05-25T08:56:00.001-05:00

What two words strike terror in the hearts of mothers everywhere this time of year? SCHOOL'S OUT!. I must admit, I have mixed feelings about this chapter in my kids' lives. Sure there will be no more early morning rushes to the bus stop and no more fighting about who wears what. But there will be more dirty dishes, more wet towels lying around and the fights that can go on all day. But let's face it--about the time you get used to having the kids home all day and you run out of hiding places, school starts for another year. So this summer I vow to enjoy having the kids home. Did I just say that? I have got to get in out of the sun. Seriously, my kids are growing so fast I have got to slow down and enjoy more of their lives with them. Of course, there will still be t-ball, baseball, and softball for a few more weeks.

I hope you all have a wonderful summer with your kids and remember they do grow up so much faster these days. Enjoy them while you can. Well, I've got to go and clean my house one more time before the summer chaos begins.

May God continue to bless you and yours. Until later, this is life on the edge-------!

Hello All

2010-05-22T13:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it's me again. Life on the edge justs goes on. I guess that is good news though. I am still running around not knowing where I am going or where I've been, but that's normal for me. Life is about to get even more interesting (interpret "interesting" to mean "chaotic" or "hectic"). School is just about out. That's right, my darlins' will be home alllllllll day, EVERY day. Yeah, that's right. I won't even have the luxury of school any more. Oh well, life must go on. Oh Iforgot--baseball, t-ball, and softball will still be going on. So not only will I have to listen to my own kids, thirty million more kids will be yelling and screaming. Gee life is good. Just kidding. I will honestly try to enjoy summer break.

I thought about going back to work a few weeks ago. But that thought just lasted a second or two then I was jolted back to reality when I realized no one in their right mind would do all the crazy things I do in a day. To be honest, I only thought about working again because an 8 hour a day job seemed to be more relaxing that what I do now. I could not find anyone that was willing to stay with the kids anyway. I guess I will continue doing what I've been doing and trust God to get me through.

Oops! The dirty laundry is crawling out of the laundry room and pushing the dirty dishes out. The kids are fighting. Good, no sign of blood yet. The phone is ringing and the dogs are barking. Guess that's my signal to get to work.

Keep praying and thanking God your life is calm compared to mine. Until I get a few more seconds to myself this is it for today. Stay encouraged and thanking God for your many blessings. Until later, friends. This is life on the edge.

Embracing Your Second Calling by Dale Hanson Bourke

2010-05-18T19:25:00.000-05:00

This book is intended to be a message that even though their "child-rearing" days are over, God still has a purpose for them to fulfill. She uses the book of Ruth to show what Naomi accomplished in her second half of life. She sends out the message that God wants to use us in making a difference in the world. Even though we might think we have "outlived our usefulness" and the best of life is behind us, Bourke shows us through the life of Naomi that "the best is yet to come."

I do agree that God does have plans for us in the second half but not every woman can do the extensive travel and volunteer work that Bourke has been able to do. God is using me to rear my four grandchildren and bring them up to honor Him. I feel this is as important a calling as anything else I can do. God is also calling me to write a book which I am also working on now.

This book did make me think about my calling for this stage of life and made me feel good about what I am doing. I will recommend this book to my friends that are in this season of life. Ms. Bourke's work did make me feel more comfortable about my own life. God has a different plan for each of us so whatever call He has placed on our life, embrace it and rest assured that He will equip us to perform whatever He asks us to do.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review

Life in Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson and Tricia Goyer

2010-05-18T13:42:00.001-05:00

This was an AWESOME book. It truly shows how God can turn a catastrophe into a wonderful blessing. Although Kristen's life was "unbearable" and painful to her, God used her life to have a tremendous impact to others.

I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster while reading this book. I felt her pain and ultimately her joy as she related the events that led up to decision to end her life. She might have wanted to end it all but for God her life had just begun.

I read this book in less than 24 hours because I found that I could not put it down one I read the fist few pages. I'm afraid I didn't see much of my kids' ball practices because I could not stop reading this book. I think this book has definitely changed my life and I'm sure it will change your life too. I highly recommend this book to family and friends.

For anyone contemplating suicide you MUST read this book. I dare say this book will be a life saver.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook-Multnomah in exchange for an honest review of the book.

What did Jesus Say?

2010-05-18T12:52:00.000-05:00

When I was given a chance to review this book, I was excited. I have four grandchildren living with me and felt this book would be a big help in explaining the christian walk to them. I was not disappointed. This book is written in easy to understand language that explains issues we all face, even young children. This book covers 62 topics of interest including how to deal with fear, worry, and forgiveness. It has scriptures from the NLT version of the Bible, a very easy to understand version. While reading through this book, I felt that the scriptures were speaking to me.

I highly recommend this book to parents, grandeparents, or anyone else that has a responsibility to teach today's children and young teens about God and His love and concern for us, His children.

I received this book from Tyndale publishers in exchange for an honest review.

He Lifts Me Up

2010-05-17T17:38:00.001-05:00

When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!

He is everything for everybody everywhere, every time and every way!

He is God, He is faithful.
I am His, and He is mine.

My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world.
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure,
Understand this...
He said it and that settles it!
God is in control, I am on His side,
And that means all is well with my soul.

Author Unknown

I have had some bad days lately. While going through some old papers, I found this clipping. I had saved it for some reason and after reading it I knew why---it was just what I needed to feel better.

God is in control and after a heart-felt talk with my Father, I felt as though a load of bricks had been lifted from my shoulders.

God is so good, isn't He?

Are We Good Enough?

2010-05-14T07:55:00.000-05:00

I found this on the internet. It ensures us that God can use us no matter how imperfect or incompetent we might feel.

The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember..
Noah was a drunk
Abraham was too old
Isaac was a daydreamer
Jacob was a liar
Leah was ugly
Joseph was abused
Moses had a stuttering problem
Gideon was afraid
Samson had long hair and was a womanizer
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
David had an affair and was a murderer
Elijah was suicidal
Isaiah preached naked
Jonah ran from God
Naomi was a widow
Job went bankrupt
Peter denied Christ
The Disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha worried about everything
The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once
Zaccheus was too small
Paul was too religious
Timothy had an ulcer..AND
Lazarus was dead!
And Don't forget
Jesus Helped them all!!!!

===========================================
Now! No more excuses! God can use you to your full potential. Besides you aren't the message, you are just the messenger. And one more thing... Share this with a friend or two. In the Circle of God's love, God's waiting to use your full potential.
=======================
1. God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.

2. Dear God, I have a problem, it's Me.

3. There is no key to happiness. The door is always
open.

4. Silence is often misinterpreted but never
misquoted.

7. Do the math .. count your blessings.

8. Faith is the ability to not panic.

9. If you worry, you didn't pray . If you pray,
don't worry.

10. As a child of God, prayer is kind of like calling
home everyday.

11. Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be
bent out of shape.

12. The most important things in your house are the people.

13 When we get tangled up in our problems, be still. God wants us to be still so He can untangle the knot.

14. A grudge is a heavy thing to carry.

15 He who dies with the most toys is still dead.

Have a great day!!! The SON is shining and HE can certainly use you!

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle. Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly....... Leave the rest to God.
Love and Prayers Always

Water Across the Road

2010-05-13T16:16:00.000-05:00

With all the rains we have had in recent weeks, water covered all the streets in my neighborhood. Our yard looked more like a lake or a giant swimming pool. Of course the little darlins' wanted to go out and play in the water and mud. Naturally, they could not understand when I told "No!". So with three angry kids I went back to complete my long grocery list. Our pantry was become quite bare because of the storms that had blown through. I began to realize how Noah's wife must have felt being shut up in the ark with the large family and all the animals to feed.
I just had four kids and one dog.

After giving the kids their final instructions and making sure the fifteen year old knew I was leaving and she would have the three kids to watch. Armed with my coupons, list, and money (that stack was the smallest of the three)I set off on my big adventure. I have to admit (as any mother will) I was actually enjoying my solitary journey. NO KIDS!!!! This did not happen very often. I had to take the opportunity when it came along. I even had plans to go to my favorite bookstore and sip a coffee while I was out.

Although the streets were still wet and, in some cases, water was still standing in the streets. I prayed before I left home and trusted my trip to God. I felt confident that I would make it to the store and back with few problems. But the confidence I had when I started out began to fade and started to turn into ansiety as I began to encounter more water in the streets. I slowly drove and prayed that I would get to the store and back home safely.

Although the store was only ten miles from home I felt as though I had been driving for hours. Suddenly, to my relief I was out out the water. I was so relieved that tears began to trickle down my cheeks. I knew God had brought me through this so I whispered a quick "thank you, Father." Up ahead I saw the main road to the grocery was still covered with water. The side street appeared to be free of standing water so I decided to take this route to the store. I could see a few rough spots aheas as I turned into the side steet but I thought "I made it this far, I can handle a few rough spots. How difficult can this be."

Well, I soon found out. The first rough spot was not so bad. I began to feel more confidence as I maneuvered my car around it. I made it through the second one with no trouble at all. Now I am so confident in myself, I was singing as I came to the third hole in the road. Then it happened! As I attempted to drive around this last obstacle between me and the store, my front wheel dropped off the road. I tried to drive back onto the pavement but I was STUCK in the mud! No matter how hard I tried I could not free my car from the sticky mud.

A man drove up in a 4-wheel drive truck and offered to help me. After several attempts and a good mud bath for me my car was finally set free. I was so happy and started jumping up and down. I'm sure the poor good samaritan thought I had totally lost my mind. Before I could offer to pay him for his trouble he had jumped into his truck and taken off.

Fortunately, neither my car nor I was permanently damaged (except for my ego of course). But this too would soon mend--I hope. When I got home naturally all the kids could think about was "no snacks". After I calmed them down by threatening to ground them for the rest of their lives, I went inside to clean myself up a bit. I am sure that after a good hot bath for me and a good hot run through the carwash I will feel more like grocery shopping tomorrow. Yes, the kids really jumped for joy when I told them it would be leftovers aganin tonight.

While bathing off the cold sticky mud I began to realize that I had asked God to carry me through my trek to the grocery. But when I was out of all the water and felt safe I had taken control again. I had tried to "do it my way. Yes God will bring us through our "water covered roads" in life if trust Him. It's only when we take our problems back and try to navigate these roads ourselves that we find we are "stuck in the mud" of life.

Indivisible by Kristen Heitzmann

2010-05-11T09:18:00.003-05:00

A pair of mutilated raccoons are found in Redford, Colorado. This discovery started a chain reaction of events that rocked the peace in this small mountain town. Police Chief Jonah Westfall was determined to find the perpetrator before this act escalated and destroyed his small town. But battling his own inner demons kept his thoughts focused on a guilty secret from his own past. Tia Manning, also had inner demons that included a past with Jonah and guilt over her sister's estrangement. This guilt threatened to destroy them if they surrendered to its strong pull.

Although Tia owned the candlemaking shop in town and rented out a room to Piper, who became a very protective friend to her, Tia was lonely but refuses to open the door that will bring happiness into her life.

This is a book about severed connections and the consequences of being alone. I found this book to be one I will read over and over. It is a "page turner" that will keep you guessing as the suspense rises. It is well-written and the characters come alive on the page. I will highly recommend this book to family and friends and will read other books by this author.

This book was donated by Waterbrook-Multnoman for an honest review.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kristen Heitzmann, a home-schooling mother of four, wrote her first book while home-schooling. This first book turned into a five-book historical series. Her writing career has produced more historical novels and several romantic and psychological suspense novels, including The Still of Night, nominated for the Colorado Book Award; The Tender Vine, a Christy Award finalist; and the Christy Award winning Secrets. She lives in Colorado with her husband, Jim, and various family members and pets.

Whole Again

2010-05-10T21:19:00.000-05:00

If you read my post this morning, you know I thought I would have to split myself into thirds. Well, guess what! It rained today. In fact, it started raining immediately after I published my post. Sooooooooo the 5:30 practice was cancelled and the softball game was cancelled. The team did have practice and the 6:00 practice was held. But, this was a cake walk compared to what was scheduled. See I told you God does take care of us.

I also told you I am a living testament that He has a sense of humor. I was so frantic trying to decide how to be in three places at once, I had the energy to clean a closet today. See God works all things to the good.

Until tomorrow--this is life on the edge.

Split in thirds

2010-05-10T08:52:00.001-05:00

Well, friends I am use to multitasking but this is ridiculous. Tonight I have one boy with ball practice at 5:30 at one location; another at 6:00 at still another location; and I am assigned the concession stand duty at my oldest girl's softball game at 5:45. I guess I can split myself in thirds but which part of me will be where? I honestly don't know. Oh, yeah, I still have the youngest to care for amid all this confusion. When I tell you that life is never boring here "on the edge" I kid you not. Oh well, just pray that whatever "third" of me is where that my brain (what little I have left anyway) will go with me to all three places. There has got to be a story in this somewhere. Right?

I told you God has a sense of humor. I am testimony to that. Until later, God bless you and keep you all in His loving arms of protection.

I will let you know how things turn out. JUST PRAY FOR ME!!!!!!!!!!

A Storm of Fear

2010-05-06T11:02:00.000-05:00

Life sometimes fills me with fear and dread. One day not long ago was one of those tines. It had been raining all day with thunder and lightning piercing the sky.

Normally, I would not be so uptight about a storm but I had my van loaded with kids and groceries. We made it home safely but were soaked to the skin by the time we managed to run to the house juggling grocery bags. I wish I could say the eggs were as lucky but, alas, they became a casualty in the "mad dash to the door". They were crushed when I slid down and landed on my rear in the water and mud. Naturally the sight of "Nanny" dripping in water and mud and, of course, eggs dripping all over me brought a round of hysterical laughter from my darling children. I finally made it into the house with no further crisis.

The rain fell and the storm raged all afternoon with no signs of releasing its grip. I convinced the kids to play some board games while I cleaned myself up, put away the groceries, and mopped the water from the floor. It did not take long, however, for the battles to begin. "He cheated!" "Did not." "Did too." "NANNY, COME HERE!"

After stopping the battle and instructing the kids to put away the games, we popped popcorn and put a movie in to watch. After a few minutes of "discussion" about what movie to watch, I settled this battle by making the choice for them. When they were finally settled down with popcorn and the movie, I went back to my tasks on my never-ending "to do" list.

I must admit I was fearful for out safety, but I did not want the kids to know this. I could hear the children talking and laughing over the antics of the characters in the movie and was grateful they had not heard the tornado warnings that had been flashing across the television screen.

By the time I had fed the children their dinner and had gotten them into bed, the rain had slowed but had not stopped completely. After the nightly stories, drinks of water, and numerous trips to the bathroom, the house was finally quiet and I could actually sit down for a few minutes in my comfortable old rocking chair. I got out my bible and started to read. Suddenly I found myself reading Isaiah 41:10: Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you in my righteous right hand. What a comforting thought! He will never leave us and the only place we can fall is into His arms! Suddenly my mind was at ease and peace filled my heart. Although the storm outside was still raging outside, inside I knew we were safe in His loving arms.

Today's Whisper:
Can you recall a time when fear gripped your heart? How did you handle it? Did you remember God's promise that He will never leave you? Write out a prayer to God for bringing you through that time.

Today's Prayer:
Father God, I want to praise you and thank you keeping your children in your loving arms. So many times I become afraid during the storms of this life. I praise your name. Somtimes you calm the storm and other times you calm my heart and give me the strength to weather the storm. But I know that you are always with me during the storms.

False
Evidence
Appearing
Real

A Mother's Love

2010-05-05T08:27:00.000-05:00

With Mothers' Day fast approaching, I would like to share a poem I wrote for my mother a few years ago. When God made mothers, He made us strong and wise because He knew we would carry the family through. I read somewhere that "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." God made us special so here is a tribute to all moms everywhere.

A Mother's Love

A mother's love is a gift from God
A wondrous blessing to behold.
A mother's love is a precious thing
Worth far more than diamonds and gold.

God gave her eyes that sparkle like jewels
And a voice soft as a lullaby.
He gave her the gentle touch of an angel
To wipe the tears from our eyes.

He endowed her with the wisdom of Solomon
To help us along life's rocky way.
He gave her the strength of Samson
To endure each and every day.

So thank God each day for your mother's love
A love so wonderful and pure.
This special blessing is yours forever
Of this you can be sure.

Radical by David Platt

2010-05-04T18:04:00.000-05:00

I have read books I have considered to be good. I have read books that I considered to be a waste of time and money. But few books have be as thought-provoking as Radical by David Platt.

Platt has written a book that will stay on your mind long after you have read the last word. In this book, Platt will reshape your thoughts on the great commission Jesus gives to all His disciples: "Go into the world and make disciples of all nations." This charge is meant for all of us--not just to a few. We all called to help the helpless, and give hope to the hopeless.

Consider the contrast between the way we christians worship and the christians in the poor countries worship. We sit in air conditioned and well heated churches on comfortable pews while the christians on the other side of the world worship in dimly lit houses. They worship secretly because of threats to their families and even their lives.

I know this book has had a profound effect on my life and I have no doubt your life will also be deeply affected by reading it. This book is a "must read" for christians concerned with the missionary field and those
who have a "burden" for the unchurched.

The book was provided to me by Waterbrook Multnomah for an honest review.

About the Author:
David Platt is the pastor of a four-thousand member congregation church in BBirmingham, Alabama. He has traveled and taught around the world. He and his wife, Heather, live in Birmingham with their family.

How Should a Christian Live? Word of Promise Next Generation

2010-04-23T22:15:00.001-05:00

I chose this book to review because I have a teen granddaughter that will enjoy reading this book and journaling. My eight year old grandson expressed interest in the games. When I read the book I could see the value of the issues covered. This book breaks down the sections in easily digestible segments. It can be read easily and comprehended with no problem. The text is very interesting yet covers issues that young people today deal with.

As a grandmother who is bringing up her grandkids, I am thrilled to find a book that we can read together and discuss. I will recommend this book to anyone who has teens or who works with teens. I think it will be an invaluable addition to any library.

This book was donated by Thomas Nelson for the purpose of an honest review.