Eye Has Not Seen nor Ear Heard

          
                    Steven R. Musick was a typical young person with plans for his future, very much like any young adult when he had a tragic mishap.  He became comatose for five weeks after suffering from an allergic reaction from a vaccine.  It also caused his heart to stop. 
During this period of time God grants Musick a peek into Heaven.  It's profound beauty is hard for him to put into words but Steven is certain about one thing...he doesn't want to leave here.  The author confirms the verse found in the Holy Scriptures  1 Corinthians Chapter 2 verse 9 which states, '"No eye has seen, No ear has heard and no mind imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him"'.

I had a great desire to read this true account because on July 17, 2016 I suffered a heart attack and flat-lined more than twenty times.  Being in the hospital I was always close by the medical staff and they would immediately use the defibrillator to bring me back to life which would halt a near death experience.  I was very curious as to what the writer experienced.  I was given the opportunity to read in exchange for my thoughts by the Blogging for Books team.  I enjoyed this story so much that I read it several times before starting my review.  There is such encouragement and inspiration pertaining to the Heavenly home that Christ has prepared for His Children.  I highly recommend this book.

A Must Read For All Those Approaching Their Golden Years

      Michael Kinsley's attitude towards becoming a senior with Parkinson's Disease is so refreshing and helps the reader realize that growing older isn't the worse thing that can happen.  Targeted at the now Baby Boomers, it calls for a sense of humor and enjoying the time we have left.  The author's positive thoughts are infectious and this book will become a favorite among those facing the same futures.  I was delighted with this book and wanted to read more.  To Read More on the Author .  I was given the opportunity to read this awesome book for the Blogging for Books Network in exchange for my thoughts.

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."'

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.

Watch For The Light Expounds Upon The True Meaning of Christmas

                   Somewhere among the Black Friday Sales, the massive decorations and long gift lists we have all lost perspective as to the true meaning of Christmas.  Many individuals become depressed because they can't spend a lot of money this year or one of their family members are no longer with them for the Season.  If we go back and reflect upon the real reason for Christmas which is hope, than many of these worries and stressors would dispel.  Watch For The Light Readings for Advent and Christmas puts Jesus Birth and the reflection of his birth way ahead of any other priority for the Holiday.  This book is a must read as a reminder of the importance of our Savior's birth.  Handlebar gave me the opportunity to review this fine collection in exchange for my views.

Wait Until Then Is A Masterpiece For Children About Heaven

     
                  Definitely my favorite Tyndale read this year, Randy Alcorn's "Wait Until Then" supersedes all other books for children on the subject of Heaven.  Perfectly written, in easy to understand fashion and it has beautiful illustrations.  This sweet book explores the promises of Heaven, finding positive meaning in our trials and what happens when we die.  These in depth subjects are presented in such a tender way through the story of a Grandfather "Gramps" who has cancer  and his beloved grandson "Nathan" who struggles with spinal bifida.  In true Randy Alcorn style, the best selling author offers a ray of hope and joy to his readers.  Always backed by scripture, this book of only 32 pages offers numerous uplifting spiritual lessons.  I highly recommend this book to anyone facing a giant in their life to gain perspective and courage.   Excellent Read!

Arnold's "Rich In Years" Guarantee's We Have Much to Look Forward To

  "Rich in Years" by Johann Christoph Arnold came to me at the perfect time.  It would be my father's 84th birthday which I was grieving over because he had been gone for sixteen years.  My tears perpetuated waves of memories of all my loved ones that I have lost while growing older.  These 'golden years' have taken much for me to adjust to.  The spiritual insight and sensitive writings of this stellar book have helped me take a more positive, productive look on aging.  "Rich In Years" addresses the many changes senior citizen's face such as the empty nest syndrome; retirement; unforeseen sickness and how to cope with these difficulties and still find joy and purpose.  I am thrilled that I had the wonderful opportunity to review this book for Handlebar in exchange for my thoughts.  It was a great blessing~
 

Brad Formsma reminds Us What Truly Makes Us Joyous

 Brad Formsma is a brilliant author after my own heart.  Since receiving the opportunity to review his new book, '"I Like Giving; the transforming power of a generous life, practical ideas and inspiring stories"' from Blogging for Books I could not wait to read my copy.  I, personally, try to do something special each day for someone else and wanted any and all ideas on making this goal more possible.  You see, I learnt first hand and very young that a person can only be truly happy by making others happy.  Brad's book centers on using Jesus as our example and you don't have to be rich to make a difference.  He offers practical advice on how we can give to others every single day of our life.  He mentions how we should raise our children to be generous also.  The rewards are plenty in ways money could not afford.  Although a quick read it has a mountain of excellent information.  Mr. Formsma also has his own website related to giving I Like Giving
It's time we join the selfless movement~

 

And The Two Shall Become One~ How Marriage Can Be Awesome

 

Being a Member of the Happy Wives Club website, it was only natural for me to volunteer for  BookLook to receive it's first book by the founder, Fawn Weaver.   I counted it a great blessing to find the website to be able to interact with other wives who cherish their marriages and adore their spouses.  Especially now-a-days when almost everything we hear from the media is negative in regards to the sacredness of God's Law.  Fawn had a mission, she decided to go on a worldwide search to find the secrets to a great marriage and what she found was hundreds of women who were happy to share their personal experiences.  There is a wealth of wisdom included in this true account.

For me, as a Christian wife who loves her lot in life, Fawn's movement brought me such joy in knowing there are others who feel like I do and that I am not alone.  Included in this book is the 12 secrets of a Great marriage, to name a few aspects...Respect; Trust; Belief in God; Laughter is the best medicine and keep outside interests.  This book confirms that true love still exists and that when we abide by God's expectations, we are truly content.  Not only do I recommend this fine book but also the website.

Abstinence isn't about not having sex; it's about waiting to have it right~

  
          Dannah Gresh's  '"And  The Bride Wore White`Seven Secrets to Sexual Purity"' is the perfect book to share with teen daughter's.  Sometimes our children listen better to others who can relate to them and this book establishes to young women that if you want true joy and confidence, it is better to wait to have sex.  The world we live in now is much more difficult for young people when the majority of their peers are going in the wrong direction.  Ms. Gresh also addresses important topics
such as breaking off bad relationships and shares testimonies from her readers.  Speak to any teenager who got pregnant in her early years and she will tell you that she wished to have waited.  I applaud Dannah Gresh for this much needed book and pray that she will touch the hearts of all those who read it.  As a member of Moody Publishers Blog Reviewers I was able to read this publication in exchange for my honest opinions.  Excellent Resource.

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 .

Nancy Leigh DeMoss Reveals Secret to Contentment

  Author Nancy Leigh DeMoss is truly a woman after my own heart.  In her new "our Journey to Joy" she confirms what I learnt many years ago.  While recovering from housebound agoraphobia and chronic depression I had to learn to change my thoughts and focus on my blessings each day in order to get out of the rut that I had fallen in.  For years, I have told my children that each day they have the choice to look for the good in each day or focus on the bad and it does make a significant mark on your attitude.  A thankful, joyful heart cannot have pity parties.  A thankful heart realizes that there are others worse off who may need us.  Ms. DeMoss could not pick a more suitable person than Joni Eareckson Tada to write the lovely forward to her book.  For those who don't know Joni, she experienced a horrendous accident as a teenager  that left her quadriplegic for the rest of her life yet she uses her disability to honor God and the strength that he gives us.  She has been an inspiration to millions, writing books, speaking and even drawing.  A kind reminder that we all have something to be thankful for.  I highly recommend Nancy Leigh DeMoss's book for anyone facing discouragement or heartache.  She includes a 30 day devotional which can be used as tools to begin your new mindset.  For those who have thought negative most of their lives, this can be a bit of a challenge but if  you use these exercises daily, you will be surprised at how little time it takes to think successfully. I commend Nancy for realizing what seems to be a real problem among women today, negative thinking.  By introducing scriptural references along with personal experience this book can be a gem for those seeking happiness.  I was given the priviledge of reading this book for MP press in exchange for my honest opinions.

 

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"'. 

Heaven Revealed was a God Send

Paul Enns reminds us that there will come a day with no more sorrow and pain in his recent publication of Heaven Revealed. This book which I received from the Publisher, MP Newsroom, in exchange for my honest review couldn't hav ce came at a better timing. I was reading while care-taking my mother-in-law who was in her last stages of lung cancer. She passed away last week and I have reread many chapters of comfort not only for myself but to share with her family. Reading this book makes one excited about the afterlife. Mr. Enns uses scripture to define what we can expect to happen there and what we will be doing. It makes whatever struggle we may be encountering seem minute compared to the joy that awaits us over there for eternity. From my personal experience I would highly recommend to all those who are grieving or experiencing loss. Chapter 5 gives great hope to those who may be suffering from illness by sharing the promise that our bodies will be perfect in Heaven. I will cherish this book and keep it as a tool whenever I need to remember the awesome promise of the afterlife.

 

Life Lessons From Pets & Wildlife

 

When Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging Group extended me the ability to review this fine book, "God of All Creation~Life Lessons From Pets & Wildlife" by James Robinson in exchange for my honest opinions I pounced on this.  I awaited in excitement and anticipation because of my personal experiences with our  cairn terrier which was given to our family as a gift.  My very first reaction when we were given 'Lincoln" was that the last thing we needed was a puppy in our brand new house and I put a struggle up during the first few weeks.  My patient spouse on the other hand was like a school boy voting for the dog and trying to get me to see his side.  Long story short, I became physically limited in the last few years and many days I am in dier pain and the one thing I can count on daily to lift my spirits is our pet, Lincoln.  He took a liking to me right away and would follow me like a little sheep and cry when I wasn't in sight for him.  I could never figure how he latched onto me, the only one who really didn't want him but Oh what love and loyalty.  It didn't take him too long to melt my heart and now he is constantly at my side and momma's boy.  Nobody can tell me that pets don't know when you are sick or down because they do...he is a constant source of joy and I can't imagine life without him.  James Robison compares our love of our pets to God's love for us in a very sweet way throughout the pages of the book.  The author goes on to say that '" If a dog can be trained to act according to it's purpose and not get sidetracked , how much more than should we learn to live the kind of life God designed for us?"'  This is the underlying thought throughout God of Creation and the author gives us numerous examples of how well each animal species obeys it's call.  l found delight reading and learning much about God's creation.  The illustrations are stellar.  Yes, I would highly recommend especially for pet lovers.

Recipe for Happyness~ Live Second

Author Doug Bender gives us the recipe for happyness in his recent daily reader "Live Second 365 ways to Make Jesus First".  His book describes this movement and the reader is also given tools online at http://www.iamsecond.com/join-the-movement/  to put these lessons into practice. 

This book is for anyone who is looking to enhance their relationship with God along with those who have reached the end of their rope and are tired of this world's misgivings.  If you are ready to give God control and be the type of character he intended us to be...Live Second is the answer.  Learning to lean on Jesus and fully submit our wills is difficult because it goes against our human nature but with God's Spirit we can overcome all obstacles.  There is no greater joy than living in the service of our King and our brothers and sisters.  Step by step and day by day Doug Bender gives us inspiration to continue on this sacred journey.   The writer supplies the student with plenty of support through online resources and websites.  We all can be the light that this dark world so badly needs, can you think of a higher calling?  This marvelous book is easy to read and understand and will be an uplift to the spirits of those who read it.  I am grateful to Booksneeze for the opportunity to review this book which is life-changing in exchange for my honest review.

 

 

Gretchen Rubin Reminds Us We Can Be Content Wherever We Are

 

Gretchen Rubin's Happier at Home is a refreshing read of how a woman can be completely content at home, however this is her story of how she finds projects that give her self satisfaction.  Gretchen's book largely resembles my own since I was forced out of working due to a physical disability.  Although difficult  in the first years, I prayed a lot and decided to put my energies into our humble home by gardening in the summer, canning and freezing vegetables throughout the Fall and sewing in the winter.  I am at peace and enjoy my lot.  In fact, I am more content than I have ever been at any other time of my life.  In that way, I felt I had a lot in common with the author.  I think that the reader could gain more insight if they could replace being happier at home with whatever or wherever they may be in their personal life at this moment.  Whether if they work full-time or have a sick parent or if they are newly married, the important message here is that a person can truly be content under any circumstane.  It's a matter of attitude.  I was given the opportunity to read this book from Walterbrook Multnomah in exchange for my review.  It is an easy read with great ideas and warmth.  It's one of those reads that leave you with good feelings.

Encomium for Nick Vujicic

Just when society thought that there were no adequate role models, along comes Nick Vujicic.  A young man who was born with gargantuan challenges yet celebrates Life with a thankful heart and incredible courage.  If  we all could emulate the strength and willingness to encourage others like Mr. Vujicic, our lives could be a beacon of  God's unfailing love such as his is.  In his book,  Your Life Without Limits: Living Above Your Circumstances the author proves that nothing can quench the human spirit except ones self.  Nick Vujicic shares his testimony of  how he was not born with any limbs (arms or legs) and how he wants to acheive some type of  normalcy.  He struggles with not wanting to be a burden to others and prays to find his place.  He also shares his fight with suicide which would befall any of us had we been in his position.  His prayers are answered as he discovers hope in his maker and he begins to take challenges and overcompensate with what he can acheive to overcome his impediment.  In time, Nick is defying all the odds as he learns that he can gain victory.  His amazing journey will inspire all who read it.  The author successfully gives all a recipe to follow to overcome any obstacle they may be facing and how to retain hope and joy through suffering. His story is number one in my best books of 2012.  I have been given the wonderful opportunity to examine his biography for Walterbrook Multnomah Blog Program in exchange for my review.  Please enjoy the trailer of  this best seller below and than get on the bandwagon and obtain your own copy!

 

Living Each Day With Eternity in Mind

Living each day with eternity in mind gives even the weakest individual a strong desire to go on; it makes the unbearable in this life less painful for it is the end goal to all that we must suffer here on Earth.  Todd & Sonja Burpo learnt that from there son's experience with the afterlife which produced the book Heaven is for Real.  Heaven Changes Everything is a continuation of the number one best seller.  Todd & Sonja Burpo outline how we should live our life while on our journey to Heaven.  The truth is that we are not there (Heaven) yet and there are many bumps and turns in the road, They share stories of the importance of forgiveness, friends and giving.  The family has shared their positive experiences with groups of all ages to enjoy.  They are giving back what has been giving to them, the message of hope.  I was given the opportunity to read this exceptional book by Book Sneeze in exchange for my honest review.  Heaven is a favorite subject for me because of  a chronic  spinal condition and Heaven Changes Everything confirms the joy that awaits loyal Christians.  It is a book of Joy and Promise and I highly recommend it for all readers.