Precious Book on Love for Toddlers

                 Mary Manz Simon has created a perfect book for toddlers to comprehend about love.  Within it's pages she skillfully intertwines how to share the love that they find because the love is within themselves by doing kind things.  It's a 'flip-the-flap book'; making reading also fun for children. There are beautiful illustrations by Hannah Wood.   Mom's will appreciate the strong binding of this lovely publication.  I was given the wonderful opportunity of reviewing this treasure for Tyndale books in exchange for my honest thoughts.  Ms. Simon reverts back to scripture for explanation of each deed done in love.  A+

One Day At A Time, Celebrating Recovery Devotional

Johnny Baker MacOwen & John Baker take ordinary things in our everyday lives to bring about short stories and lessons to help on the addicts way to recovery.  Statistic's show only a 6% success rate of complete turn arounds.  Understanding the minds of addicts of self-deprevation and doubt these auhors prove with scripture; the Love God has for all His children and how He desires to walk and heal His children.  They highlight Jesus Christ for going to the cross for everyone's sins. This sincere devotional offers stepping stones for the reader to find success in their new lives.  This 25th Aniversary Edition contains the tools for the prodigal returning home who needs a strong spiritual base.  I am honored to have reviewed this book in exchange for my thoughts by Book Look Blogger's.  It will enhance the lives of addict's seeking comfort and growth.  I highly recommend.

Welch's Passion is Infectious

   
           Brian 'Head' Welch's newest release With Eyes Wide Open kept me captivated for fourteen hours. The time it took me to read his book from cover to cover.  My youngest daughter is the Korn fan.  I read for the spiritual journey.  I was eager to learn about Brian's walk with Christ and was astounded by what He already knew.  He spoke like a seasoned christian putting away any doubts about His submitting everything over to the Lord.  Most new christian's are naive thinking  that once they promise to serve God, their lives will be perfect.  Welch knew better that God doesn't promise us a rose garden but He does promise to be there to get through the rough spots.  The author is very humble and sincere in doing things God's way and his story is a testimony of how God works during our difficult times to bring about a brighter end for us.
This book should definitely prove why we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover.  I am grateful that the author shared his experiences with us which everyone can learn from.  Book Look Bloggers gave me the opportunity to read in exchange for my honest opinions.

Our Lives Had Once Been Beautiful and Our Lives Are Beautiful Still

   
           September Vaudrey's, Colors of Goodbye has moved me more than any other book I have ever read on loss.  Her loss is a parent's worse nightmare, that of losing a child.  Katie, her amazing daughter (a daughter that any parent would be proud to have) dies suddenly of an aneurysm at the young age of 19. Any doubt of the Vaudrey's faith in God is relinquished when reading this true account.  September shares her raw struggles which match what many Christians face when facing tragedy yet I have never seen in publication.  Mom Vaudrey questions whether the loss of her daughter is somehow because of something she did in the past.  Read along as genuine friends reassure her that it is not her fault.  From the point of impact of the accident on God makes himself known with visions and miracles to aide the Vaudrey family through their heartbreak.  Real evidence that God is there and that God is Good (Author's words) even when we think He is not.  Ms. Vaudrey's growth through her pain offers Hope to all that the sun will shine again and that they don't have to give in to bitterness and anger.  This stellar publication offers tools to help all those facing horrendous loss.  Special Kudos to Katie Vaudrey for leaving a life of ripples and to September Vaudrey for having the courage to share their story.  I am more than honored to have been able to review this book for the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my thoughts.  Think upon these wise words from the writer,
'"God never promised me a lifetime with my daughter.  He never promised me any of the blessings I get to treasure everyday. He promises us comfort in sorrow, strength when our faith fails, inexplicable peace, His presence in storms and life in all its fulness for those who follow him---but not a pain free life.  And the things he promises, He delivers."'

Age Appropriate Bible Offers More Than Cuteness~

                     Age appropriate (4-8 years) and easy to understand The Veggie Tales Bible New International Reader Version is equipped with multiple tools to enhance your child's experience in learning the scriptures.
                     There is an introduction to each book to prepare the reader about who wrote the book and key highlights.  This is an essential guide especially for first time readers of the Bible.
Bigger words can sometimes be intimidating, so there is also a dictionary included to resolve that problem.
                    Parents will be pleased to know that chapters and sentences are shortened in an effort to keep the reader's interest.  Midway through the Bible there are 8 full color Bible stories as told by the veggie tales.  These are simply adorable and appear like comics.
                    For little minds that tend to forget "Remember This" has 100 entries of scripture to remember.  I was honored to read this book for Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my review.  This children's Bible actually is better than I expected and I very highly recommend!
                

First Published in 1655; Gurnall's "The Christian In Complete Armour" Still Revelant Today

                    Amazing devotional fully backed up by scripture and an asset to Christians in their daily walk.  The author, William Gurnall, included in his book, how to overcome the enemy of our soul (a subject most minister's will not elaborate on).  Although this book was written in the 1650's, the lessons are still very revelant today.  Here is a phenomenal example.  Gurnall writes, '"Guard Against Discouragement.  Depression is one of Satan's most dynamic weapons to divert you from God's Purpose in your life."'  He goes on to explain some of the Devil's weapons to wear down the Saints.  Anyone who chose to follow God can relate to the experiences shared in this publication.  It is true and encouraging.  It will renew your faith and confirm your journey in serving God.  Clear and concise.  It's very easy to understand.  Kudo's to Moody Press for this superb publication.  One of the best devotional's I have ever read. I am honored to have reviewed for MP.

Silent Cry Is an Excellent Resource for Those Who are Dating

     Having lived through an abusive relationship during the seventies, I was compelled to read Dorothy J. Newton's release of "Silent Cry".  There is an unspoken kinship among survivors who suffer in silence. How the public view's your family life and how you are really living is very different.  Trying to keep that secret because it's too embarrassing is tormenting.  Leaving takes a lot of courage.  Having a spouse that lives a double life is not the greatest deal breaker.  These men are so charismatic that individuals feel that if there is a problem in your marriage it must certainly be you.  Ms Newton gives God the glory for helping her with the pain and giving her the strength.  I urge young women who are dating to read this book.  I recommend it highly.  Note the red flags that shout Nate & Dorothy's relationship is bound to fail while they are still dating.
Dorothy's number one priority had always been her service to God.  Dating Nate, an unbeliever, she starts to compromise her values.  This book is full of learning experiences.  I was thrilled to review it for Book Look Bloggers.

Christmas 2015

                 Last night I was sitting back reflecting on the past year and my heart swelled with such gratitude. I got everything I wanted and feel spoiled not just by my family and friends but also by God.  It's amazing to see how circumstances worked out when I was close to losing Faith.  The end result being much joy and many blessings.  I would plea, never ever give up because God's way truly is the Best even when we cannot see.
       I can't help but contemplate on the things my husband does for us (his family) and always with such love.  What a wonderful world it would be if there were more Harold's; a true gentleman who bends over backwards to help others out.  I could never ask for a better spouse.
       This year my little sister came home twice (spiritually & naturally).  My soul sings with such joy renewing our relationship which was hard to keep up when she lived miles away.  Now back in Michigan it's like we never ever were apart.
        The Lord saw my many fastings and prayer for my youngest daughter.  He initiated a wonderful Miracle in her life and no sooner did things resolve in her life than an unexpected emergency occurred in my eldest daughter's life.  Nicole & Nick being close to twenty years of marriage and who gave me Bailey & Cara (Bailey being 17 years and Cara 16)  became pregnant again.  She had a very difficult delivery and withstood many blood tranfustions but Thank God she is ok today and we are all loopy with love for our newest addition, Brayden,
        Through our Church I became very close friends with a sweet sister from Georgia.  Sister Kenah Knowles.  Although we have never met in person, it's like we knew one another all of our lives.  She has become an inspiration by sharing her experiences and a prayer partner for life.  Pray for our dear sister who lost her husband not long ago.  He being a member and she is my age.  Their love and bond through God was great and the separation has been difficult.
       Oh the Great Love of God.  He is so real and real in our lives if we would but have Him.  I began 2015 with many concerns and I watched as the Lord worked through each situation and only through Him was I able to make it through to enjoy the end results...of pure joy~

Brutally Honest, Could Not Put 'The Plain Choice' down.

"The Plain Choice- a true story of Choosing to Live an Amish Life" is one book I could not put down without completing.  It's not your typical amish story.  Sherry Gore's background includes a life of neglect and abuse, drugs, loss of loved ones, homelessness  and rebelliousness...certainly not the simple quiet life of the Amish.  Raised among the rich and famous in California, Sherry never feels as if she fits in.  As a young person she eludes all the glitter and ventures to Florida.  Here she comes face to face with homelessness and defeat.  She changes her name and try as she may to isolate from family, a miracle occurs when a relative takes her in to get her back on her feet.  Sherry continues to look for love in all the wrong places and suffers by the hand of a controlling mate.  Kudos to Sherry for sharing her successful plan on leaving an abusive partner.  This part of her journey is a must read for all those caught in similar conditions also answers the question as to why victims just don't leave their abusers.  Sherry Gore's true story is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to learn about what victim's go through.  She also shares the birth and joy of her children; the devastating loss of her best friend and sister whom also was in an abusive relationship and concludes with her spiritual awakening (the need for God) and the contentment that brings.  Sherry finds her true self in the serving of God.  This book is an excellent read.  I had the priviledge of reading and reviewing for BookLook Bloggers.

C.S. Lewis, Leo Tolstoy, & Oscar Wilde's Easter Stories, Classic Tales from the Finest

                       The perfect way to celebrate Easter with your family and friends, this book will surely become a favorite for years to come.  The spiritual lessons and wonderful interpretations of the resurrection shall long remain in each reader's heart.  A compilation of classic short stories by these great authors  C.S.Lewis, Leo Tolstoy, Oscar Wilde, Elizabeth Goudge and many others shall birth a annual tradition to enjoy during Lent and Easter Season.  This book comes with high recommendations from this reviewer for Handlebar Publishing.  I enjoyed the opportunity to receive a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Invaluable Lessons for the Little Lady in Your Life

BookLook Blogger's offers me some tremendous experiences.  Reviewing The Sweetest Story Bible for Toddlers has been such an honor.  It's small and sturdy enough to fit into the tiny hands of little girls eager to learn of God's word.  The Sweetest Story is all right adorable.  This precious Zonderkidz Bible features eight scripture stories with just enough information to keep your little ones attention along with lovely illustrations provided by Sheila Bailey.  Diane Stortz gets credit for writing.  The little girl in your life will cherish this pretty pink dainty Bible which contains invaluable lessons she can apply to her young life.

Sundar Singh's Conversion to Christainty

 

Sundar Singh was to become a very prominent spiritual teacher  and The Wisdom of The Sadhu is a compilation of his thoughts, parables and experiences. Born and raised in India as a Hindu, he discovers the teachings of Christ that will forever change him. Sundar lives much like a vagabond, needing only his strong faith to lead and guide him.  Each breathe he takes is to spread his new belief and to encourage others about the Love of God.  Kim Corner does a superb job in editing and organizing Singh's musings to create this book.  I was given the opportunity to read for Handlebar Publications.

The Toddler's Bible is Precious And Easy to Understand

  Catherine DeVries and Zonderkids have created the perfect toddler's bible, "Adventure Bible for Toddler's" with exciting illustrations by Jim Madsen.  Geared towards ages 2-8, there are ten stories taken from the Old & New Testament's.  I applaud the author's goal of reaching younger minds.  It is imperative that children learn of their Heavenly Father.  Ms. DeVries offers this wonderful opportunity by making the stories of the Bible come alive in terms that the little ones will understand.  This precious commodity would make a stellar gift for toddlers.  I was given the honor of reviewing this book for Book Look.

RICH IN SPIRIT

  Brenda Spahn thought she had her entire life planned out.  Being denied the priviledges of nice material items while growing up her only goal was to become rich someday.  Her determination and hard work bring her to her goal until one day she loses it all,  Her true story of how God transforms her thoughts to a higher calling to help others is included in this stellar book "Miss Brenda and the Loveladies~ One woman's brush with prison...A Community of Women fighting the odds for survival on the outside...".  The author discovers the meaning of being "rich in spirit" and how living and giving for God has greater rewards than material things.  I was given the awesome opportunity to read Ms. Spahn's journey from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest thoughts,  I highly recommend her story as it is full of hope and will inspire all who read it.  Read about the Lovely Ladies center on the
Author's website

 

All You Want to Know About Hell By Steve Gregg

  For many the thought of "Hell" is incomprehensible especially as an eternal suffering from not following God's way.  Like it or not, Hell is mentioned all over the Bible and for those Christians who take the Bible literally, it's all a part of the divine plan.  Author Steve Gregg has done extensive research in his new book to share with the reader the pros and cons of three popular Christian views which explan Hell's purpose.  This book is very deep and took me several times of reading and rereading to grasp each concept.  I was given this opportunity through Book Sneeze in exchange for my honest opinions.  It's not important as to whether I believe what each sect proclaims.  What's more important here is the detailed account on what Mr. Gregg promises.  The book will keep you captivated and wanting to understand more.  It raises a lot of questions and controversy as much as the subject as Hell itself.  The book contains a lot of history siting the views of the early church. Included in the back of the book is a chart of  arguments for Tradictionalism; Conditionalism; and Restorationalism.  The Author has given us a superb work of writing which will teach each reader much.

Alone Yet Not Alone, A True Story Made into Movie about a Kidnapping and Faith in God~

    Winner of 5 Dove Awards and approved for ages 12 and up, Alone Yet Not Alone is everything a family needs to see.  A loving family who work hard together during the time English colonies are entangled in war.  Two innocent sisters are caught by the enemy and held captive, their comfort coming from a family hymn and putting their Faith into practice.  Copies of the book are available here Buy the book.  To obain tickets for the movie Purchase tickets .  Check out the movie trailer and more Website .  Don't miss out, obtain your tickets in advance for this milestone featuring our Nation's history.

Overcoming The Most Painful and Restricting Emotion A Person Can Carry

         Guilt stifles and imprisons it's victims.  Guilt stops individuals from reaching their goals as they wade in self-loathing.  Guilt destroys all self worth and can even lead to deep depression, a nervous breakdown, addictions and even suicide.  For myself, guilt was the most debilitating  force I experienced in my life which attributed to my becoming a housebound agoraphobic.  Clinical Psychologist Everett L. Worthington Jr. describes the beauty of the Gospel and Christ's death on the cross which frees us of the bondage of guilt.  His book is a God Send for all those afflicted with doubts about forgiveness.  Moving Forward - Six Steps to Forgiving Yourself and Breaking Free from the Past examines the difference between real and unwarranted  guilt (those things we have no control over but blame ourselves).  He presents the reader with a path to stop beating themselves up over the past.  Using Scripture as his basis, he sites examples of other individuals who have benefited by his tools.  Although this excellent book was not available when I was younger, I was able to obtain a stellar psychologist who helped me through my dark period and I successfully overcame my depression and agoraphobia.  It's important for the reader to realize we all make mistakes and none of us are worthy of  redemption but because of  God's love, we are saved through his Son.  Guilt was meant to remind us to remain humble and if we fall that we ask for forgiveness and to go on and not repeat the same mistakes.  Dr. Washington skillfully guides the reader to reach self-forgiveness and once this door is open, you will be able to accept the loving forgiveness of God.  Your burdens will be lifted and finally you will be able to love more freely with your new self-acceptance.  It's time to move on and enjoy life as God wants you to.  This book is essential for a healthy self-esteem.  I am grateful for Waterbrook Multnomah for the opportunity of reading this in advance.  I highly recommend .

Heaven Hears Proves That Nothing is Impossible With God As Pat Boone's Grandson Overcomes all Odds

 

 

Ryan Corbin's story retold by his mother, Lindy Boone Michaelis in 'Heaven Hears ~ The True Story of What Happened When Pat Boone Asked The World to Pray For His Grandson's Survival' proves that nothing, absolutely nothing is impossible with God.  The evidence of God's power is magnified throughout the chapters of this inspiring testimony.  Ryan's desire was to serve the Lord and he spent many hours reading the scriptures in hopes of completing a screenplay which depicts the Life of Christ in Modern Times.  His devotion pays off as he completes this project.  One sentence in his play stands out because of what lies ahead in his future, '"I think something is going to happen to me"' becomes a self premonition or perhaps God was getting him prepared for his future.  On June 19, 2001 there is a horrific freak accident.  Ryan steps through a skylight and falls three stories onto a cement floor.  The impact leaves the doctors wondering if Ryan will even survive.  In his comatose state, his family reaches out to everyone to pray.  Pat Boone is invited on the Larry King show where he pleads with the TV viewers to pray.  Miraculously, Ryan awakens but he has a long tough road ahead.  Some doctors claimed he would remain a vegetable.  His amazing faithful mother would not succumb to the doctors diagnosis.  She knew that her Father in Heaven could do all things.  Heaven Hears will renew the reader's faith and comfort mother's to know that their children are in God's hands.  It was a joy to read this book for Tyndale Book Network.

 

 

 

 

Nick Vujicic's Success Story Will Inspire All to Do The Same

Life Without Limits "Inspiration for a ridiculously Good Life" by Nick Vujicic is the second autobiography that I have read by this stellar character.  His attitude and faith help him overcome the bad hand that his has been dealt with.  Although Mr. Vujicic would probably disagree that it was a bad hand.  Born without any arms or legs does not dissuade him from any goal that he sets forth to accomplish.  His humbleness and thankfulness are miracles to all his readers.  The purpose for his book in his own words are as follows: '"I do believe my life has no limits.  I want you to feel same way about your life, no matter what your challenges may be.  What would your're life be if anything were possible?"'  I am inspired by his excitement for life and always come away feeling badly that my minute problems are nothing in comparison to the road the author had to take.  His story reminds me not to take anything for granted and that others have worse circumstances yet they don't complain. This awesome book which I had the fine opportunity of reading from Walterbrookmulnomah Blogging for Books network in exchange for my review always makes me a better person.  I keep a copy on hand for days I might be having a difficult time.  This book will have an impact on all ages and genre of people, we all could learn something powerfully good from the writer.  Nick has chosen to make his life a life of value and share that with others and he gives honor to God for his strength and courage.  Not only do I recommend this book but deeply feel that you will shortchange yourself by not reading it. 

 

When Happily Ever After Shatters

Sue Birdseye bravely tackles the sensitive subject of divorce among Christians.  Still today, divorce is frowned upon in many denominations so the subjects involved feel that much more alone and heartbroken.  I can relate to her pain and determination to rely on God's help after experiencing one of the most devastating occurances in life.  The deep hurt of adultery and abandonment drew the author closer to her Faith while so many in the world tend to become bitter at God and resent him for their misfortune.  Her mature spiritual understanding allows her to realize that this was not God's will but her spouse's choice and that God feels our deep sorrow.  Ms. Birdseye shares with us the many phases of her grief from trying to hide her feelings from others and finding joy in the new found confidence of being independent.  Her journey can help many others know that they are not alone and that they too will heal and better days are ahead.  It's a wonderfully written book which I was given the opportunity to read from Tyndale network.  I only wish this book had been available years ago when I was going through the same.  I highly recommend the book as well as what the author is conveying '"Never Give Up"'.