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."'

Not Just A Story of Losing A Child; This Book Is An Answered Prayer

As a christian, I always have believed in Miracles.  The book, Rare Bird by Anna Whiston~Donaldson was an answered prayer for me.  It's the true, tender story about how the author loses her son and how she copes with the most difficult situation any person can face.  This New York Times best seller came to me at exactly the perfect time.  Unlike other books on this same subject, the author offers hope through her suffering and finds a closer relationship with God after losing her beloved child.  My best friend, lost her second child to cancer this past March and I have been trying desperately to reassure her that God can help her with her pain.  As humans, it's always easier and more true when we hear this from someone who has experienced what we have gone through.  I couldn't wait to give a copy of this heart touching read.  I am also ordering a copy for my Aunt and Uncle whom, just a couple weeks ago, lost their third child.  My cousin Jimmy.  It has been a blessing reviewing this true account for Blogging for Books.  I recommend highly for Clergy and those who serve the public.  Personally I will be keeping several copies on hand.

Billy Graham in Quotes

   At 92 years old, Billy Graham is still reaching out to individuals to find true contentment in giving their lives over to God.  In this newest project, "Billy Graham in Quotes" Franklin Graham and Thomas Nelson gather his most thought provoking quotes (covering seven decades of  ministry) to inspire those with a listening ear.  As a fan of quotes, I believe these truly will make an impact on the reader.  Billy Graham does not mince words but boldly states the truth as found in the Bible.  This book contains many chapters with quotes on numerous subjects which still afflict individuals.  To name a few:  addiction; abortion; anger; anxiety; angels; compromise; death; grief and grace are just a spec of the subjects embarked upon.  With 433 pages altogether, this book is great to serve as a tool to have as you experience different difficulties in life.  It does not necessarily have to be read straight through.  I encourage those who struggle with reading to buy this book as you can gain a lot of knowledge by reading small chapters.  I have had the wonderful privilege of reviewing this book for Book Sneeze online.  Yes, I recommend~

 

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?

It's ok to cry in "Grieving God's Way" by Margaret Brownley

Long overdue, Margaret Brownley's book "Grieving God's Way"  supports those who suffer the tragic losses of loved ones by inspiring them to weep if they need to weep and not to try and rush the healing process.  Many times, well-meaning friends may expect the individual going through deep heartache to just 'get it over with'!  Unless you've experienced the loss of a loved one there is no way that you can give advice on this subject.  There are many stages of grief as outlined in this marvelous book and it is imperative that each person take all the time they need to cope with their situation.  The author approaches the matter by writing daily biblical verses and teaches the reader to apply what they are learning.  The book is structured in such a manner that it is easy to comprehend and follow.  One of my best girlfriends just faced another anniversary of  her son's death and I knew that this book would prove to be beneficial to her.  I mailed it off to her and prayed that it would bless her.  She could totally relate to many of the instances which seem to be present among those who endure personal loss.  Cheryl was comforted by the compassion and understanding made known by this writer.   The book is also highly recommended to the friends of  the person suffering in order to better understand their difficulties.  I was honored to read this book  from Book Sneeze in exchange for my  review. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                             

The Best Gift~The Gift of Memories

5x7 Folded Card

View the entire collection of cards.

When my best friends son passed away, I immediately start sending her photos of her son and the more I sent...the more she appreciated. Knowing that others have not forgotten your loved one gives the individual a peace and contentment.  Shutterfly helps me give Cheryl my gifts from my heart!

And A Little Child Shall Lead Them~

  "Heaven is for Real" Little Todd Burpo's account on his trip to Heaven and back is one book that you won't want to pass up reading!  It is delightful and inspiring, uplifting and hopeful (all those things which are hard to find in this stressful day and time we live in).  Todd's account reminds us that Heaven is our goal and that is real.  Who better to have such an awesome experience than a little child.  The Good Book tells us "that a little child shall lead them".  Children are pure and innocent.  Little children don't lie...they have no reason to.  Todd's real life story confirms that what God's word is true.  It brings us joy knowing we have a lot to look  forward to.  This lovely novel is a great comfort to those who have recently lost loved ones and it may convert the soul of a non-believer.  I adore this writing and highly recommend.  A real perk of being a member of  Book Sneeze is the wonderful opportunity of receiving books like this in exchange for an honest review.