The Beyond Suffering Bible Is An Answered Prayer

Long overdue THE BEYOND SUFFERING BIBLE answers all those questions which make individuals take a backseat to serving God such as:  If God is Loving, why does He allow suffering. Why doesn't He just stop all the hurting and pain.  This unique Bible answers these harrowing questions to confirm to readers that He has a plan for all things. 

Tyndale could not have chosen a more adequate spokesperson for their newest creation than Joni Earickson Tada who became a permanent quadriplegic after a diving incident at a very young age. I greatly recommend reading her true story of triumph and faith which inspired me as a teenager Joni's autobiography .  Her disability has drawn her closer to her Savior and she has become an asset to the Christian community as helping all those with disabilities.  She has worked to add wonderful resources to these scriptures such as ten guided Bible reading plans '"that help you walk through Scripture on key topics related to suffering and disability."'  On every single page there are connection points or study brief's which focus on Biblical suffering.  There are so many enduring features included in this Bible such as book introductions; Profiles; and devotionals.  All to assist and deepen your understanding of how Christians cope with suffering.

I love this Bible and have not been able to put it down since I received my copy from Tyndale in exchange for my thoughts.  What a blessing which has been designed to give as a gift.  I can't say enough good about this tool which will encourage and uplift your spirits. A+

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+

A Definite Must Read for those Facing Adversity

       
                   Chase Away Cancer is the riveting story of the Ewoldt family.  Their young son is diagnosed with terminal cancer and even in their darkest nights they refuse to give up on hope.  They will put us. who have very little to complain about in life, to shame and grateful that our lot is not as heavy.  They will give encouragement to others facing tremendous trial.  They will remind us about Miracles and hope and love.
The author, Ellie Poole Ewoldt, brings the families reality to light and we find ourselves fighting along with them.  I am grateful having had the fine opportunity to review this book for Tyndale Blog Network.  A Definite Must read~

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!
                

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~

John Rosemond Takes Baby Boomers On A Sweet Venture Down Memory Lane

                     John Rosemond's "Grandma Was Right After All" takes an in depth view of old fashioned parenting vs today's parenting.  Many of us baby boomers remember this era as the pre Dr. Spock days when parents only goal was setting boundaries in order to prepare their children for their future.  At that time discipline was the highest form of love.  Many thought that parents were too stern but in the long run, their methods worked  As a by product of the seventies I was blessed in that regard.  The author playfully discusses the many sayings that were common to everyone's parents.  Rosemond takes us on a fun journey down memory lane.  How awesome life would be if this old fashioned parenting were still implicated today. Kudos to the Tyndale Blogger Community for allowing me to receive a copy of this excellent book in exchange for my review.  What a Remarkable Read~

An Extraordinary Love Story Between Man And His Best Friend

        Tyndale's '"Stay Lessons my dogs taught me about life, loss and grace"' by Dave Burchett is a treasure for all pet lovers.  Those who realize the special kinship that only their furry friend can bring will relate to this true story of love and loyalty.  Dave Burchett adopts Hannah, a beautiful labrador who not only becomes a playmate but a comfort for his wife while she battles cancer.  The author is touched by the many lessons he learns from Hannah about being patient, living in the moment and surrendering during her time on Earth.  The Lord himself said that he would use the weak to confound the wise.  The bond between owner and pet is so strong that it supercedes many human connections.  When Hannah faces cancer, herself, she lives each day to the fullest and battles bravely.  This outstanding book will inspire many.  I was given the great priviledge of reviewing for Tyndale Books in exchange for my true thoughts.  

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.

The Importance of Allowing Our Children To Be Children

In Johann Christoph Arnold's "Their Name Is Today, Reclaiming Childhood", she focuses on the difficulties young ones experience in growing up too fast.  Play is so important that she devotes an entire chapter on this subject,  She also addresses the facts that perhaps there would be less violence if parents would put their children at the top of their priorities.  This book gets the reader thinking, hopefully before it is too late.  By spending quality time with our children and by putting our love for them into action, we may never have to experience the problems of violence and suicide once they become adults.  Somehow the media has twisted the definition of childhood by forcing kids to participate in areas that they are not ready to master.  Sadly, our society has the very young worried about whether they are sexy enough.  The young people today know things I was unaware of until I became an adult.  This book is a resolve for parents everywhere wanting to change the tide of things by offering tips and ideas on how to bring childhood back.  I was given the opportunity to rate this book for Handlebar Bloggers.

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.

The Outcast by Jolina Petersheim Is a Book You Won't Want to Put Down

 

The Outcast by Jolina Petersheim will keep you reading into the wee hours of the night.  Meet Rachel Stoltzfus who was raised in the Old Order Mennonite community who shuns her once her secret of a pregnancy out of wedlock spreads.  Her biggest accusers , one being the bishop confronts his own secrets of sin will it change his heart?  Will he find forgiveness and embrace Rachel and her child?  This book will bring out raw emotions in you as you feel the abandonment that Rachel encounters.  She refuses to name the father to protect him.  Would you do the same.  The book is somewhat lengthy but with the cooler months ahead of us, this would make for the perfect read.  I had the great pleasure of reviewing for the Tyndale Network. 

Contrary to Popular Thought, What Men Really Want

With over two million books sold, Shaunti Feldhahn sheds light on what men really need in her best seller, For Women Only.   Contrary to what we may have heard, sex fills a powerful emotional need in a man even more so than the physical need.  ' '' Men take their role as a provider very seriously, the author states it is the core of a man's identity. In fact, 71% of men say their ability to provide is always or often on their minds.'"  We  all know that most men have a more difficult time expressing inner feelings than women. This stellar book gives all women insight on what really matters to a man.  Above all, respect is at the top of his wish list.  This book is excellent and a real eye-opener to what women may think their man expects of them an what he truly desires.  There is a powerful chapter on what he most wishes he could say to you.  I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to read this book for Blogging for Books Waterbrook Multnomah for sharing my thoughts.  The author also has written For Men Only in this companion series.  With Mother's Day right around the corner, this would make for an awesome gift which enriches relationships.  A Definite Must Read.

 

Shauna Niequist's Bread & Wine

Shauna Niequist's Bread & Wine A Love Letter to Life around the Table With Recipes really hit home for me.  In my younger years, our family lived upstairs from my Grandmother DiFalco who spent the entirety of her days making pasta and meatballs from scratch to serve to family and friends come dinnertime.  Cooking and sharing her meals was her way to show love and there was always plenty to go around the table no matter how many people showed up.  Everybody looked forward to dinnertime where we all enjoyed the meal and sat long afterwards sharing stories of our day.  My uncles always told hilarious jokes and nobody would miss out on being around the table. Of course being raised the way that I was, I followed in my Grandmother's footsteps.  I enjoy cooking and inviting a lot of guests over.  In this way the author won over my heart.  She speaks of the importance of being together and enjoying even a small meal (bread and wine) or whatever you feel to create.  Shauna shares her experiences as well as delights us with many recipes.  The book spoke to me while conjuring up warm memories of many pleasant evenings.  I recommend this book highly to anyone who enjoys entertaining as well as housewives and hostesses.  It was my honor to read this book in exchange for my review for the Handlebar Network.

 

Cancer Could Not Stop Kristian Anderson's Love

After winning the hearts of Millions via you tube, Kristian Anderson shares his struggle with cancer in his  book, Day's Like These Even in the Darkest Moments Light Can Shine Through.  Kristian surprizes his wife with a video he created for her birthday and he posts it on You Tube to share with the World his undying love for his partner.  Once it went viral, he gains a multitude of fans and well wishers.  Only 34 years old, the young Australian is struck with bowel and liver cancer.  Although receiving this terminal illness diagnosis, Kristian refuses to give up hope and he shares with us his most intimate moments.  Booksneeze gave me the awesome opportunity to read this fascinating story in exchange for my thoughts.  Having lost my best friend and most recently my beloved mother-in-law to cancer Kristian's story was quite therapeutic for me.  I am in awe of his courage and concerns for his loved ones rather than himself.  This book was one of Oprah's favorites, ''He taught us how to LIVE with cancer.  The Light he left on earth will be dimmed by his passing."'  I agree with Ms. Winfrey's sentiment.  Kristian's story will remind us not to take anything for granted and to be grateful whatever our lot may be.  Perhaps the greatest significance of his sharing is that I was able to understand better what the cancer patient goes through.  He writes about chemo and it's aftereffects which even close loved ones don't talk about while they go through this.  It is a stellar read which I highly recommend to all. 

 

The 5 Love Languages for Kids by Dr. Gary Chapman

 

Award Winning Author, Dr. Gary Chapman teams up with Rick Osborne and Illustrator, Wilson Williams Jr  to create this phenomenal book with interactive website to teach children the values and importance of Love.  Selling more than 7 million copies confirms the success of the #1 New York Best Seller.  The author categorizes the way love is given and received in five forms; words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time and physical touch.  He has written numerous books not only for children but also adults to teach all ages about the greatest gift of all...charity.  More information can be obtained at The 5 Love Languages Website .  A Perfect Pet for Peyton is the lovely story that I was allowed to review for Moody Press in exchange for my opinions.  The twins, Peyton and Penny are celebrating their birthday and are excited to be going to The Perfect Pet Pal Emporium for their gift.  I was thrilled to see that the children pray throughout their day.  I got attached to this fictional Christian family.  It's a wonderful read for the children to learn respect and manners.  Peyton opens the car door for his mother.  Their parents decide to hold their Birthday party at the Pet Emporium with all their friends. The friends will also  choosing pets for themselves. What's awesome about this peticular place is that it is part zoo, part farm and part aquarium so there is dozens of pets to encounter and choose from.  Without giving away too much of  the story, it centers on the young peoples journey and their great excitement.  It promotes family unity and support.  The Perfect Pet for Peyton is a positive tool for young parents which I highly recommend~

You Have to Feel The Pain In Order to Heal

On February 16th, 2013 at 5:55 am my mother-in-law took her last breathe after struggling with stage four lung cancer. My mother-in-law and I had a bizarre relationship, she was a dear friend of mine. The family found out about her cancer during the Thanksgiving holiday so for us her passing came quite quickly. For years I daydreamed about the time my husband would retire and we could spend more time with his mom, my mom and our families but life doesn't always happen the way we plan. I awake now with this overwhelming sense of sadness and emptyness. The tears come because she won't be back. I don't like the pain nor the sadness, I don't like that she has died and is gone but in order to heal one must feel the grief. I've lost my father, my best girlfriend to pancreatic cancer, my grandparents, some cousins, two brother-in-laws and aunts and uncles and it never gets any easier. Even for Christians. For some people they think that because of our faith, we don't feel the pain. Nothing could be further from the truth. Jesus who had first-hand knowledge of how grand Heaven is, cried for Mary and Martha when Lazarus died. He wept because he felt their pain. However comforting it is to know we will see our loved ones again in the afterlife we still feel a real loss here. Life will not be the same without our beloved departed. Shirley was a real gem, a rare find and I was blest to be a part of her family. I will ever be grateful for that and noone can take her place. In the meantime I feel like I am on an emotional roller coaster, sometimes sad and than angry that this occurred and than content that she is no longer in chronic pain. You can't stifle your pain or pretend it is not there. Some people turn to drinking and/or drugs which only will mask your feelings for awhile. I know that in time I will be stronger to deal and healed to a point where grief doesn't take up most of my day because death is part of the seasons. In order to heal you must feel the pain and go through being uncomfortable for awhile. Miss you Mom~ <

Oh No Not the Children, Dec. 14 The Day The World Changed

          Although there have always been deranged individuals wreaking havoc in society, something  more hurting and unexplainable  occurred on Dec. 14, 2012...A hunter determined to make his prey innocent young elementary students...an awful mind blowing act which rid our realms of any security we might have once felt in the past leaving everyone, everywhere wondering what is happening in our world.  Life has sadly changed since I was a child when my biggest concern was whether or not my older brother found my favorite toy that I hid on him. We lived in a more safe enviroment in those days when neighbors spoke kindly to one another and faithful friends knew that there were certain boundaries that you just didn't cross in for the sake of  true kinship.  It's just not like the good ole' days anymore and my heart bleeds for the parents who must worry when their offspring are doing the right thing by going to school.  What has this world come to and who is to blame?  I imagine it is a number of factors  that have contributed to this lack of concern with human life as I recall some of the things I suggested as a college student majoring in Psychology.  Young and full of passion I suggested in my essay that lawmakers should make Mental Health a mandatory class in all schools just as physical educucation is.  Agreeing that Physical Health was an asset in establishing the importance of  keeping our bodies up to par but I felt that mental health should also be addressed with that same ferver.  For one this would erase the stigma that has been attached to mental illness since forever but also teach individuals on how to identify those who may be afflicted and guarantee that they get some kind of help.  My professor was pleased with my report and gave me a bright A+ while leaving a question for me to ponder...'"How would this class be funded?"'  Since than I felt that there was a negative possibility of ever seeing this proposal come to past.
   So instead today, twenty little innocent victims will be buried.  Hearts are broken, many will lose faith and there will be a void which will not be filled.  The news has left us all with apprehension and uncertainty.  The holiday holds less meaning with the true lights of our lives smothered out.  As a mother and grandmother of thirteen I beg that strickter background checks be made with anyone purchasing a gun and that it include background checks of everyone in the family and/or who may have access to that person's home.  I wonder how many people know that our beloved Abraham Lincoln who suffered through many nervous breakdowns  had his assistants at his home hide the silverware on the days that he was most depressed.  This has been written in his history books as he struggled with his own dark thoughts on certain days.  We can't put all the fault on the media although there is way too much violence being portrayed to the children these days, nor can we put it all in any one egg basket but we can each do our part.  Needless to say our Nation would be a better place if we each were a little more loving and respectful to one another.  Is it possible to make that change?

Although Dying, Deb Glorifies God for Cancer

 

Margaret Terry's DEAR DEB will make us all realize there must be a God and that his miracles do exist.  This is a true account of  a young woman afflicted with both brain and lung cancer and her quest to find a miracle.  Margaret Terry knowing Deb as an acquaintance through Church has a desire to encourage her with her writings.  The finished book is a lovely account of how God truly works in mysterious ways.  Margaret digs deep into her past to send passages of hope to Deb on a regular basis.  The bond that is created is bittersweet because the author knows that it will be short lived, Deb is not getting better.  The letters are 'the miracles' that Deb needed to get through each day and Ms. Terry enjoys doing this for her.  The reader will find a real miracle in Deb's words as she states to Margaret the following '"If my illness inspired you to write these stories, the cancer was worth it."'  Deb knew God and she believed in his promises.  She knew her body would be whole in Heaven and she had no doubt as to where she was going.  This book was a priviledge to read for the Book Sneeze network in exchange for my review.  I am and will be a better person for reading this.  Deb is a hero, to be able to thank God under such circumstances and to share her last months with us and Margaret Terry is also a hero for sticking by Deb's side knowing the heartbreak she would feel when she was gone.  This book brought back memories of my best friend who passed away in 2003 of pancreatic cancer.  It was very emotional for me but also one of the most inspiring books that I have read in 2012.  I wasn't able to put it down.

Now That's Italian~

Product – Red Pepper Sauce | Progresso Frozen Foods

Progresso Foods offers a delicious shortcut to warm bellies with the cold weather upon us.  I was fortunate to receive free coupons for their new frozen sauce and specialty pastas after becoming a fan member. Within these choices of sauces:  Red Pepper Sauce; Marsala Sauce & White Wine Sauce I purchased the first.  Coming from a large Italian family, I learnt to make both spaghetti noodles and sauce from scratch from my grandmother which was an all day affair.  Thanks to Progresso a family can enjoy the great taste of an awesome pasta meal which the cook can prepare in less than forty five minutes.  Imagine how elated I was when my spouse gave me kudos for the angel hair pasta and garlic bread meal I had made.  Progresso's Red Pepper Sauce just needed to be warmed up because it is not necessary to add anything.  I boiled the noodles and baked garlic bread yet the family had praised me as if I spent my entire day in the kitchen.  Better yet, this specialty sauce was so unique that we all were happy to sample something new and different.  Looking forward to the marsala sauce and white wine sauce to enhance supper meals.  If grandma were still alive I would have to explain to her that Progresso is truly Italian.  Give yourself a break...try Progresso now~

Bobby Richardson ~ World Series MVP

World Series MVP for the New York Yankee's "Bobbie Richardson" was not just an outstanding baseball player.  In his book "Impact Player Leaving a Lasting Legacy on & off the Field" the reader will discover what his first priority was in life.  Mr. Richardson remained a humble individual while playing baseball but his first love was his faith in God.  He was a man devoted to much prayer and demonstrating Christian qualities.  He was never embarrassed to talk about the goodness of God.  Though he was fortunate enough to play along with Yogi Berra; Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris these things never swayed him from his life long purpose.  Even when starting his relationship with his wife, he had these important words inscribed in stone, '"Only one life, it will soon be past.  Only a life for Christ will last."'  This autobiography which was supplied to me by the Tyndale Network in exchange for my honest review has proven to be such a blessing.  It would make a great gift for husband, sons and grandsons  so keep in mind with the Holidays coming up around the corner.  Bobbie Richardson's history raises warm feelings within me.  When I was growing up, many a sports team player could be looked upon as a role model and Author Richardson can be revered in the same way.  He is a true mentor who encourages the readers to be grateful in everything.and to stay focused on your goals.  '"Bobby Richardson Impact Player A Memoir-Leaving a Lasting Legacy On & Off The Field"' is a work of excellence worth reading!