A Simple Walk

Are You A Biter Or A Clipper?

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:19:00 +0000

Don't you just love the soft, chubby, cherubic hands of a baby? I could spend hours just rubbing Jill's soft little hands. But I don't love when her nails become daggers that she loves to use for pinching, especially while she's eating.

One of the tasks of babyhood I've always disliked most as a mom is trimming those tiny little fingernails. With Isabelle, I was hyper-vigilant about all things hygiene. She was bathed and powdered daily, with an extra bath or two thrown in whenever just her diaper leaked just the least little bit. Her hair was combed and her nails were trimmed after each bath. (Oh how things change from #1 to #5, but that's a whole 'nother post!)

But those nail trimmings had a tendency to end in at least a finger or two getting nicked by those little clippers. So by the time Alex came around, I gave up completely on using nail clippers and started just biting them off instead.

I'm wondering if I'm the only one that does that? Did/do you clip or bite your baby's nails? Surely I'm not alone in this, am I?

{Projects} 365 ~ Days 1 - 10

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 03:25:00 +0000

We have definitely gotten off to a great start with crossing projects off of our {Projects} 365 list. With just 10 days down is 2011, here is what we've gotten done so far:

1/1/11 - Bookshelf assembled and arranged in the master suite hallway. This is my favorite project so far! I've wanted this Expedit bookshelf from IKEA for years. I've been picturing it in the hallway outside our bedroom since the day we moved in. And since that time, all of our beloved books have been waiting patiently in boxes in our master bedroom closet. I had so much fun arranging the books. Even though it's been there for 10 days now, I have to stop and admire our bookshelf each time I walk by.

1/2/11 - Master bedroom closet organized. Getting all those boxes of books out of closet meant we could finally organize and arrange all of our clothes. Definitely a sense of accomplishment when we finished that project.

Check out my shoes - all 6 pairs of them in total! Don't you just love the wide variety of colors? :)

1/3/11 - Alex's bedroom rearranged. We moved the furniture around and made the bedroom much more 6 year old boy friendly.
1/4/11 - Steam cleaned the carpet in Olivia & Gracie's bedroom.
1/5/11 - Made & froze a bulk batch of Bacon, Cheese & Egg Biscuit Cups. Not a project from the list, but still important.
1/6/11 - Found some size 6 pants from the clothing storage bins for Olivia. Not on the list again, but a much needed project!
1/7/11 - Monthly trip to Sam's club and finished putting Christmas decorations away.
1/8/11 - Finished monthly grocery shopping. Fun day with the kids!
1/9/11 - Some rather disappointing time spent in the kitchen. But I did get some laundry done at least. Also, Eric rearranged the play area.
1/10/11 - Hung cabinet above refrigerator. Eric and a neighbor worked together to get that cabinet hung correctly. When we first moved in, the cabinet was just sitting on top of the fridge. It was only useable if we opened the fridge door first. Eric took it down and we spent a few months trying to decide what to do with the space. Finally we decided the smartest move would be to just hang the cabinet up correctly. The kitchen looks complete now!

{Projects} 365

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 16:25:00 +0000

We began moving into our new house on June 18th of 2010. I was 5 1/2 months pregnant at the time. Our focus was on getting furniture situated and boxes unpacked. Once I started nesting, the focus shifted to organizing, bulk cooking and cleaning. As a result, a lot of the projects we wanted to tackle to officially make our house a home were pushed to the back burner.

Now that Jill is over 3 months old and we've lived here for over 6 months, we are ready to do that once and for all. We have lots of projects, both big and small, that we want to complete. We are giving ourselves the entire year of 2011 to get everything done.

We started with tackling one of those projects on the very first day of the year and we've continued each day. Hence {Projects} 365. I'll be blogging our progress as we work through our list. I'm hoping this will help keep us accountable. It will also serve as a great resource at the end of the year for us to look back on all of our accomplishments.

Here is the {Projects} 365 list as it stands right now.

Paint master bedroom
Paint family room
~~Assemble and organize bookshelf in master suite hallway~~
~~Organize master bedroom closet~~
Cabinet above refrigerator
Paint and clean desk for Alex
Buy & set up family desk in front room
~~Re-arrange Isabelle's room~~
~~Re-arrange Alex's room~~
~~Clean carpets in Olivia & Gracie's room~~
Buy and hang canvas print in master bedroom
Rug for family room
Stencil "God writes straight with crooked lines" above Jill's crib
Organize garage
Front yard landscaping
Refinish & seal decks
Paint fence
Move gravel
Buy & set up swing set
Backyard landscaping
Set up garden space
Plant garden
Collage picture frames for family room
Buy hall tree or bench and hooks for front entryway
Buy padded couch-style bench for front room
Decorate front room
Paint accent wall in kitchen
Replace ceiling tiles in mudroom/pantry
New curtains in family room
New curtains in dining area
New curtains in master suite

That looks like a good start to me. It's definitely subject to change as well as additions. Obviously some of the projects will take several days or weeks even while some will only take a few minutes. But they all still need to get done!

I'm not planning to tackle a project from that list every single day. That's just too much. Somedays, my project might be as big as getting laundry folded. But that's okay. Forward motion is what I'm looking for!

Growth ~ 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0000

I read Amy's post about being Intentional in 2011 and was instantly smitten with the idea of a theme word for the year. I'm not typically a resolution maker. No wait, strike that. I AM a resolution maker, I'm just not a resolution keeper! So I figured I could definitely get behind having a theme word for the year.

I didn't have to think very hard to decide what my theme word for 2011 would be because it's something that I've been thinking about for quite a while.

2011 is going to be all about GROWTH.

Personal Growth Goals:

Grow as a communicator. Sometimes, I just flat out stink at spoken conversation. I get awkward and stumble over my words. I have to quietly think before I can continue speaking on a regular basis. It's frustrating for me, super frustrating for my husband and I'm willing to bet it frustrates plenty of other people that I talk to on a regular basis also. In 2011, I want to push myself to just speak.
Grow as a wife. I want to get better at speaking my husband's "love language." Goes hand-in-hand with #1. I also want to work through The Love Dare, which we bought a couple of years ago after watching Fireproof.
Grow as a mom. Consistent discipline, quiet together time, play time - these are the 3 areas where I'll be focusing.
Grow in my faith. I want to get into a regular bible reading schedule as well as read other books on Christianity. Eric and I used to do that frequently but it's been put on the back burner the past few years. I'm going to start that process by reading The Irresistible Revolution: Living as an Ordinary Radical by Shane Claiborne.

Professional Growth Goals:

Grow the blog. Cooking During Stolen Moments has become my main blog. It grew consistently throughout 2010, but I fell short of many of the goals I had for the year. (A new house and a new baby may be to blame for that one!) I want to step outside my comfort zone and pursue a few opportunities that I've passed up because of my shyness. I also want to become more proactive in seeking out other new opportunities.
Grow the menu planning. Just like the blog, I fell short of many of the goals I had for Stolen Moments Menu Planning in 2010. I want to grow my customers but also expand the business to a membership site. That's just a start.

I'm sure as these first few weeks of the year go on I'll think of even more areas where I need or want to grow. Growth is such an important part of life and I'm excited to focus on it for 2011. Maybe it will force me to also grow in my follow-through abilities. We shall see!

Did you make resolutions for the year? Or are you embracing a theme word for the year? I'd love to hear about it!

Dusting Off The Cobwebs

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 04:20:00 +0000

I feel like I'm yelling into the void here, wondering if anyone is still reading this poor, neglected, lonely little blog of mine. Over 3 months without a post. I'm slightly ashamed!

However, the neglect hasn't been without good reason. I last posted on September 29th and on September 30th, this is how I was spending my time.

We welcomed our 5th baby (and 4th girl) into the world. Jill Elizabeth was born via an emergency c-section at 5:30pm on September 30th. We were both perfectly healthy, she just opted for sitting upright instead of hanging out head down.

Isabelle, Alex, Olivia and Grace were thrilled with the arrival of their new sister. And considering how they still beg to hold her, I'd say that excitement has worn off yet.

The time with a newborn sure flies by quickly though. She has gone from that tiny little thing to this pretty little girl.

She's three months old and getting bigger every day. Her smiles are the best. They go all the way to her eyes - her BROWN eyes. Jill is our first brown-eyed baby and Eric is so excited to finally have one with his eyes.

So other than that...life has been great around here. We've been busy living life and enjoying each day.

Believe it or not, I have big plans for this blog. I'm hoping to post several times a week once again. I can't wait to get back into it!

KNOW Magazine ~ For Science Crazy Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 01:09:00 +0000

For years, science related matters have been a frequent topic of discussion in our house. It began when Isabelle was about 5 and really started taking an interest in nature. Over the years, her initial interest grew into an avowed obsession with the weather. Her dream now, as it has been for the past several years, is to become a meteorologist one day.

So maybe it's because they idolize their big sister, or maybe it's just because the weather or other science-related topics are so frequently discussed, but Alex and Olivia definitely show an interest in all things science as well.

This is kind of a shock to me considering science was probably at the bottom of my list of enjoyable topics when I was a kid. And honestly, I've learned to love it now and to research when needed, but I'm just not a science person. It's a good thing the kids can discuss and teach amongst themselves.

However, I am smart enough to know that I'd be missing out on a huge opportunity if I didn't do everything in my power to encourage this interest in our kids. That's why I'm so excited about KNOW Magazine.

KNOW describes itself as "The Science Magazine for Curious Kids." Yep, sounds like a perfect fit for my kids! It is geared for children ages 6-9. Since Isabelle is 11, Alex is 6 and Olivia is 5, my thought is that this will be a perfect magazine for them all to read together. Isabelle can do most of the reading (for now) while Alex and Olivia take it all in. They'll each get turns with the magazine to look through it at their leisure and then they can discuss it together even more.

If you have science-minded kids (or wish you did), I definitely recommend checking out this awesome resource. You can read over lots of sample pages from KNOW Magazine at their website. Like me, I think you'll be impressed with what you see.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Mad Science and received the products necessary to facilitate my review. In addition, I received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

The End Of Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 02:01:00 +0000

I can not believe we have one day left of our official summer vacation. It feels like it hasn't even yet begun, and here we are getting ready to send the oldest 3 kids to school on Tuesday. How does this happen? Year after year it seems that summers are just getting shorter and shorter.

Every summer, we have a list of must-do items that we'll accomplish over those short months. This year's list was extremely shortened compared to most years due to our move and my pregnancy. But we did do pretty good at getting most things crossed off the list.

However, there was one big item still on that list as we headed into our last week of summer vacation - a trip to the Detroit Zoo.

Since that last week also coincided with our need to start our earlier bedtime and morning routines, we purposely chose a day when we would all get up with our alarms and be out of the house at the same time we'll have to leave for school. In fact, this little plan worked so well that we've decided to make the timing of the trip a yearly tradition. (Although Isabelle did request that we try to not go on a 90+ degree day next year.)

Why is that we can separate the kids and get some great pictures of them either in a small group or one-on-one?

But put them all together and we end with a series like this...

I am thankful that they seem to lose that little habit when we try to take the very rare family photo though.
And if the kids had it their way, this little fellow would have become a part of that family photo too. He joined us for lunch, got up close and personal and even brought a few friends for a visit.
This was the highlight of the whole day for the kids. I think we'll be talking about our lunch with the peacocks for years to come.

Now to enjoy our last day of this amazing summer. I may not be ready for school to start again, but I am definitely ready for the crisp, cool days of sweater weather!

Not Ready

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 02:03:00 +0000

I am not ready for school to start back up in two weeks.

I am not ready for this baby to be born any time soon.

I am not ready to give birth again.

I am not ready for Isabelle, who just turned 11, to become so fashion conscious.

I am not ready let go of the hand of our third child as she walks into school for the very first time.

I am not ready for my current baby to become a big sister.

I am not ready for a son who can do work around the house that I don't know how to do.

I am not ready to give up this blog just yet, although it may have felt as if I had for awhile there.

I am not ready to get back in the writing groove just yet, but be patient with me. I've missed it and I'm working on it!

Plant-A-Pen from Paper Mate

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 01:58:00 +0000

The kids have been fascinated with recycling, reusing and repurposing for as long as I can remember. And now that we are in a house with our own yard that we can dig up as we please, they are getting interested in all things related to the dirt. We have spent a lot of time talking about composting and are planning to start composting as soon as we get a few other things crossed off our to-do lists. The kids are thrilled that they'll have a part in that process.

Needless to say, when I saw this review opportunity come through my email, I knew I couldn't pass it up! (Oh, the things I do for my kids! Such a selfless mother, right?)

Paper Mate recently introduced a new line of biodegradable pens and mechanical pencils. When all the ink or lead is used up, you break it down and toss the biodegradable components into the dirt or your compost bin. Within a year, it will be completely broken down. How cool is that?

I was a little hesitant about the writing quality of the pens though. I am VERY picky when it comes to my pens! I was worried that these would write like erasable pens or something similar. So I was pleasantly surprised with the smooth flow of ink. Both of our pens did get that circle of ink around the tip that turns your fingers blue, but that's not a very big issue with me, especially when you consider all the things this pen has going for it. (Just thought I'd mention it though, in case you don't like that trait in a pen.)

We will definitely be picking up a few more of the mechanical pencils when we do our back-to-school shopping this weekend. They are Isabelle's pencil of choice now! Plus, we get a fun family project to do together that we can all feel good about. There's not many pens or pencils that offer that as an added perk!

I WROTE THIS REVIEW WHILE PARTICIPATING IN A BLOG TOUR CAMPAIGN BY MOM CENTRAL ON BEHALF OF PAPER MATE AND RECEIVED THE PRODUCTS NECESSARY TO FACILITATE MY REVIEW. IN ADDITION, I RECEIVED A GIFT CERTIFICATE TO THANK ME FOR TAKING THE TIME TO PARTICIPATE.

Checking In

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 02:13:00 +0000

We are still alive and kicking over here! I can't believe my last REAL post was about the last day of school and we are already starting to gear up for the start of school. The kids start at their new school in exactly three weeks. I can hardly believe it! (I can also hardly believe Olivia will be starting kindergarten, an occurrence which is seriously tugging at my heart strings these past few weeks.)

Our new house is coming together and we should be completely settled within a few weeks. There are some long-term jobs on our list, such as painting a room or two and buying some new furniture to fill in empty spaces. But that will all happen in due time and we are just busy loving living here in the mean time.

Baby #5 is due in exactly 9 weeks - another fact which I can hardly believe. Surprisingly, I am really hoping to have all 9 of those weeks. Gracie was 3 1/2 weeks and both Alex and Olivia were 5 weeks early. They were all perfectly healthy and over 6 pounds at birth, so that is not a concern. But we will just be settling into our new school and routine when I hit that 5 week mark. I think we'd all really like some time to get used to one new adjustment before the next wave hits. Either way, I'm doing my best to have us all prepared.

Briefly, here's what our summer has looked like:

Olivia - growing up a little more every day

Alex sporting his summer style - a mohawk! Eric's idea that has grown on me.

Isabelle's home-away-from-home for a week - Camp Westminster.

The camping girl, sad to be ending her favorite adventure.

Gracie is just as full of spunk and spirit as ever.

Our family's favorite summertime even was a huge hit with everyone again this year.

We spent the Fourth watching the fireworks on the lake with my brother-in-law, his girlfriend and my parents.

Feeling like our homeschooling days of old while doing some summertime get-ahead workbooks.

The 3 littles love their new house, even while they missed their big sister at camp.

Our new backyard, which has been put to VERY good use over the past 2 months.

CFBA Review ~ Back On Murder

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 02:44:00 +0000

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing Back On Murder Bethany House (July 1, 2010)by J. Mark Betrand
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

J. Mark Bertrand has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Houston. After one hurricane too many, he left Houston and relocated with his wife Laurie to the plains of South Dakota.

Mark has been arrested for a crime he didn't commit, was the foreman of a hung jury in Houston, and after relocating served on the jury that acquitted Vinnie Jones of assault. In 1972, he won an honorable mention in a child modeling contest, but pursued writing instead. Besides his personal website, visit his Crime Genre website at http://www.crimegenre.com/.

The next book in this series, Pattern Of Wounds will come out in the summer of 2011.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Det. Roland March is a homicide cop on his way out.

A missing girl. A corrupt investigation. They thought they could get away with it, but they forgot one thing:

Roland March is BACK ON MURDER...

Houston homicide detective Roland March was once one of the best. Now he's disillusioned, cynical, and on his way out. His superiors farm him out on a variety of punishment details. But when he's the only one at a crime scene to find evidence of a missing female victim, he's given one last chance to prove himself. Before he can crack the case, he's transferred to a new one that has grabbed the spotlight--the disappearance of a famous Houston evangelist's teen daughter.

All he has to do? Find the missing teenage daughter of a Houston evangelist that every cop in town is already looking for. But March has an inside track, a multiple murder nobody else thinks is connected. With the help of a youth pastor with a guilty conscience who navigates the world of church and faith, March is determined to find the missing girls while proving he's still one of Houston's best detectives.

Battling a new partner, an old nemesis, and the demons of his past, getting to the truth could cost March everything. Even his life.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Back On Murder, go HERE.

CFBA Review ~ Tomorrow We Die

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:35:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Tomorrow We Die Bethany House (July 1, 2010) by Shawn Grady

My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book. I thought the storyline was unique and intriguing. One of my favorite aspects of the book was attempting to figure out the code along with the main characters. I also really enjoyed the inside look at the life and day-to-day work of a dedicated paramedic. It was certainly eye-opening!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Shawn Grady signed with Bethany House Publishers in 2008. He was named “Most Promising New Writer” at the 39th Annual Mount Hermon Writers Conference. He is the author of the novels Through the Fire & Tomorrow We Die.

Shawn has served for over a decade as a firefighter and paramedic in northern Nevada. From fire engines and ambulances to tillered ladder trucks and helicopters, Shawn’s work environment has always been dynamic. The line of duty has carried him to a variety of locale, from high-rise fires in the city to the burning heavy timber of the eastern Sierras.

Shawn attended Point Loma Nazarene University as a Theology undergrad before shifting direction to acquire an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science Technology as well as Paramedic licensure through Truckee Meadows Community College.

Shawn currently lives in Reno, Nevada, just outside of Lake Tahoe. He enjoys spending time in the outdoors with his wife, three children and yellow Labrador.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Chase the Angel of Death and You Might Catch Him

Jonathan Trestle is a paramedic who's spent the week a few steps behind the angel of death. When he responds to a call about a man sprawled on a downtown sidewalk, Trestle isn't about to lose another victim. CPR revives the man long enough for him to hand Trestle a crumpled piece of paper and say, "Give this to Martin," before being taken to the hospital.

The note is a series of dashes and haphazard scribbles. Trestle tries to follow up with the patient later, but at the ICU he learns the man awoke, pulled out his IVs, and vanished, leaving only a single key behind. With the simple decision to honor a dying man's last wish, Jonathan tracks the key to a nearby motel where he finds the man again--this time not just dead but murdered. Unwilling to just let it drop, Jonathan is plunged into a mystery that soon threatens not only his dreams for the future but maybe even his life. He must race for the truth before the Angel of Death comes calling for him.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Tomorrow We Die, go to HERE.

CFBA Review ~ Nightmare

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 01:11:00 +0000

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing NightmareBethany House (July 1, 2010)byRobin Parrish
My Thoughts:

I found this book both absolutely riveting and absolutely terrifying. I wanted to put it down, but I couldn't! The story line was very unique and I really enjoyed that aspect. I'd definitely recommend this book. Although, I do NOT recommend reading this book late at night in your new house when you do not know all of it's nighttime sounds and intricacies. I almost scared myself senseless a few times!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin Parrish is a journalist who's written about the intersection of faith and pop culture for more than a decade. Currently he serves as Senior Editor at XZOOSIA.com, a community portal that fuses social networking with magazine-style features about entertainment and culture.

He had two great ambitions in his life: to have a family, and to be a published novelist. In March of 2005, he proposed to his future wife the same week he signed his first book contract with Bethany House Publishers. They contracted him for the rights to The Dominion Trilogy: Relentless (2006), Fearless (2007), and Merciless (2008). His science fiction thriller, Offworld came out in 2009. This summer debuts Nightmare, and he's working on another for 2011. Robin and his wife and children live in North Carolina.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Nightmare is Coming...

Ghost Town is the hottest amusement park in the country, offering state-of-the-art chills and thrills involving the paranormal. The park's main ride is a haunted house that promises an encounter with a real ghost.

When Maia Peters visits during her senior year of college, she's not expecting to be impressed. Maia grew up as the only child of a pair of world-renowned "ghost hunters," so the paranormal is nothing new and to her most of the park is just Hollywood special effects. In fact, the ride feels pretty boring until the very end. There, a face appears from the mist. The face of Jordin Cole, a girl Maia knows who disappeared from campus a few months ago.

Convinced what she saw wasn't a hoax and desperate to find answers to Jordin's disappearance, Maia launches into a quest for answers. Joined by Jordin's boyfriend--a pastor's kid with very different ideas about paranormal and the spirit realm--Maia finds herself in a struggle against dangerous forces she never expected to confront on the edge of the spirit realm that try to keep the truth from emerging.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Nightmare, go HERE.

Last Day of School

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 03:16:00 +0000

I can't believe our first ever year of public schooling is officially over. What a year it's been!

Both Isabelle and Alex loved every minute of school. They were blessed with wonderful, understanding teachers who made this year of transition an easy one.

They made some great friends. They learned. They grew by leaps and bounds. They were excited for the start of summer vacation but sad to see the year come to an end.

Olivia is already counting the days until she gets to start kindergarten. She's heard such wonderful things about school and kindergarten in particular.

Alex was mighty proud to receive his kindergarten graduation diploma today. He told me tonight that he feels older already. My frugal boy is definitely growing up!

We're all excited for the long and lazy summer days we have ahead of us though.

Oh, and is there any better way to spend your first day of summer vacation than moving into your new house? (Details and pictures to follow soon!)

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday.

Noodles & Company Review

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 21:04:00 +0000

I love all-in-one dishes for their simple convenience, versatility and great taste. When I'm cooking, it's so easy to just throw all of our favorite flavors together and create something wonderful. Plus, it is the perfect way to add an extra serving or two of veggies into our meals. I find that veggies covered in sauce - whether cheese, tomato or something more simple - are much more palatable for our kids than when just served as a side.

And I always appreciate restaurants that fall in line with that philosophy and provide kid-friendly meals without the unhealthy, over-hyped kid options offered by most restaurants. Since going out to eat is a pretty rare occasion for us, we try to always choose a restaurant with high quality options for the kids.

Noodles & Company fits that bill perfectly. Their offerings are fresh, full of good ingredients, oh-so-tasty and easy on the wallet. What's not to love?

I fell in love with Noodles & Company many years ago when my sister took me to one by her house. I was enamored from that very fist visit. Maybe it's because pasta is my biggest weakness, or maybe it's just because their food is that good!

In honor of asparagus season, Noodles & Company is now serving up a wonderful new Asparagus & Linguini dish. The dish is made with seasonal asparagus, snap peas, lemon juice, basil, red onions, mushrooms and feta cheese, served over regular or whole wheat linguine.

Eric and I recently took the kids to lunch at Noodles & Company and we all thought this dish was a success. The flavors are so fresh. It tastes like spring in a bowl. Eric is probably the biggest asparagus fan in our house and he thought the flavor combination was the perfect way to serve asparagus.

About Noodles & Company:

Noodles & Company, a fast-casual restaurant chain with 240 locations, recognizes the importance of access to nutritious food served quickly and strives to provide customers with affordable meals prepared from fresh and healthy ingredients. In fact, Noodles & Company has 14 fresh vegetables on their menu, and what kid doesn't like pasta? A great alternative to fried and fatty fast food, Noodles & Company offers dishes loaded with fresh and in-season vegetables that the whole family can enjoy. You can dine in or take your meal to go; either way, your sautéed-to-order meal is usually ready in about 5 minutes.

In honor of their new dish, Noodles & Company created a website dedicated to asparagus, including tips on how to select asparagus, cook asparagus, a recipe and other fun ideas. Check out that great resource here.

Full disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Noodles & Company and received 5 Noodles & Co. bowl cards to facilitate my review. Mom Central also sent me a thank you gift certificate.

Crooked Lines

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 27 May 2010 23:58:00 +0000

We thought we had it all figured out.

Four hands...a child for each hand.

The maternity clothes given away. Several important items on loan to good friends.

We were done. A nice and tidy little family of 6.

But our plans are not His plans.

God writes straight with crooked lines.

(Thanks for that, Mom!)

On or around October 19th, our family of 6 will become a fantastic family of 7.

The shock has worn off and now we are thrilled and feeling blessed beyond measure.

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday.

CFBA Review ~ Broken

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 27 May 2010 20:25:00 +0000

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Broken

FaithWords (May 25, 2010)

by

Travis Thrasher

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

It was during third grade after a teacher encouraged him in his writing and as he read through The Narnia Chronicles by C.S. Lewis that Travis decided he wanted to be a writer. The dream never left him, and allowed him to fulfill that dream of writing fulltime in 2007.

Travis Thrasher is the author of numerous works of fiction, including his most personal and perhaps his deepest work, Sky Blue, that was published in summer of 2007. This year he has to novels published, Out of the Devil’s Mouth, and a supernatural thriller, Isolation.

Travis is married to Sharon and they are the proud parents of Kylie, born in November, 2006, and Hailey, a Shih-Tzu that looks like an Ewok. They live in suburban Chicago.

Stop by and visit Travis at his Blog where you can sign up to follow him on Facebook and Twitter!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Laila had it all--love, family, wealth, and faith. But when her faith crumbles, her world falls apart and Laila finds herself living an empty, dangerous life as a call girl in Chicago.

When she is threatened, Laila shoots and kills a client in self-defense, sending herself into a spiral of guilt and emptiness. Six months later, she is trying to move on, but she's haunted by the past. She hasn't told anyone about the man she killed, and she's still estranged from her family.

When she is approached by a stranger who says he knows what she did, Laila has no choice but to run. But the stranger stays close behind, and Laila begins having visions of the man she killed. Little does she know she's being hounded by something not of this world, something that knows her deepest, darkest secret.

Scared and wandering, will Laila regain her trust in God to protect her from these demons? Or will her plea for salvation come too late?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Broken, go HERE.

CFBA Review ~ Frenzy

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 27 May 2010 00:57:00 +0000

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing FrenzyThomas Nelson (May 18, 2010)byRobert Liparulo

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first novel, Comes a Horseman, released to critical acclaim. Each of his subsequent thrillers—Germ, Deadfall, and Deadlock—secured his place as one of today’s most popular and daring thriller writers.

He is known for investing deep research and chillingly accurate predictions of near-future scenarios into his stories. In fact, his thorough, journalistic approach to research has resulted in his becoming an expert on the various topics he explores in his fiction, and he has appeared on such media outlets as CNN and ABC Radio.

Liparulo’s visual style of writing has caught the eye of Hollywood producers. Currently, three of his novels for adults are in various stages of development for the big screen: the film rights to Comes A Horseman. were purchased by the producer of Tom Clancy’s movies; and Liparulo is penning the screenplays for GERM and Deadfall for two top producers. He is also working with the director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Holes) on a political thriller. Novelist Michael Palmer calls Deadfall “a brilliantly crafted thriller.” March 31st marked the publication of Deadfall’s follow-up, Deadlock, which novelist Gayle Lynds calls, “best of high-octane suspense.”

Liparulo’s bestselling young adult series, Dreamhouse Kings, debuted in 2008 with House of Dark Shadows and Watcher in the Woods. Book three, Gatekeepers, released in January 2009, and number four, Timescape, in July 2009, and number five, Whirlwind in December 2009. The series has garnered praise from readers, both young and old, as well as attracting famous fans who themselves know the genre inside and out. Of the series, Goosebumps creator R.L. Stine says, “I loved wandering around in these books. With a house of so many great, haunting stories, why would you ever want to go outside?”

With the next two Dreamhouse books “in the can,” he is currently working on his next thriller, which for the first time injects supernatural elements into his brand of gun-blazing storytelling. The story is so compelling, two Hollywood studios are already in talks to acquire it—despite its publication date being more than a year away. After that comes a trilogy of novels, based on his acclaimed short story, which appeared in James Patterson’s Thriller anthology. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” He lives with his family in Colorado.

Visit Robert Liparulo's Facebook Fan page: http://www.facebook.com/LiparuloFans

ABOUT THE BOOK

Their destiny is to fix history. Their dream is to get home.

When you live in a house that's really a gateway between past and present, you have to be ready for anything. It's a painful fact the Kings have faced since moving to Pinedale eight days ago. Desperately trying to rescue their mother from an unknown time and place, brothers Xander and David have lunged headlong into the chaos of history's greatest--and most volatile--events. But their goal has continually escaped their grasp.

And worse: Finding Mom is only a small part of what they must do, thanks to the barbaric Taksidian. His ruthless quest to sieze their house and its power from them has put not only the family, but all of mankind, in grave danger.

Somehow, the key to it all hinges on Uncle Jesse's words to the boys: "Fixing time is what our family was made to do." But how can they fix a world that has been turned updisde down--much less ever find their way home?

At long last, the secrets of the house and the King family are revealed in the stunning conclusion to this epic series.

If you would like to read the Prologue and first Chapter of Frenzy, go HERE.

Sign up for the Frenzy Newsletter HERE.

CFBA Review ~ Predator

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 24 May 2010 00:32:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingPredatorZondervan (May 25, 2010)byTerri Blackstock

My Thoughts:

This book was definitely a lesson in patience for me. I was desperate to get to that last page to find out the resolution. Krista was such an easy character to relate and I easily slipped into her shoes as I turned the pages. She is the kind of main character I must enjoy!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Terri Blackstock’s books have sold six million copies worldwide. Her suspense novels often debut at number one on the Christian fiction best-seller lists, and True Light, published last year, was number one of all Christian books—fiction and non-fiction. Blackstock has had twenty-five years of success as a novelist.

In 1994 Blackstock was writing for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening drew her into the Christian market. Since that time, she’s written over thirty Christian titles, in addition to the thirty-two she had in the secular market. Her most recent books are the four in her acclaimed Restoration Series, which includes Last Light, Night Light, True Light and Dawn’s Light. She is also known for her popular Newpointe 911 and Cape Refuge Series.

In addition to her suspense novels, she has written a number of novels in the women’s fiction genre, including Covenant Child, which was chosen as one of the first Women of Faith novels, and her Seasons Series written with Beverly LaHaye, wife of Tim LaHaye.

Blackstock has won the Retailer’s Choice Award and has appeared on national television programs such as The 700 Club, Home Life, and At Home Live with Chuck and Jenny. She has been a guest on numerous radio programs across the country and the subject of countless articles. The story of her personal journey appears in books such as Touched By the Savior by Mike Yorkey, True Stories of Answered Prayer by Mike Nappa, Faces of Faith by John Hanna, and I Saw Him In Your Eyes by Ace Collins.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The murder of Krista Carmichael's fourteen-year-old sister by an online predator has shaken her faith and made her question God's justice and protection. Desperate to find the killer, she creates an online persona to bait the predator. But when the stalker turns his sights on her, will Krista be able to control the outcome?

Ryan Adkins started the social network GrapeVyne in his college dorm and has grown it into a billion-dollar corporation. But he never expected it to become a stalking ground for online Predators. One of them lives in his town and has killed two girls and attacked a third. When Ryan meets Krista, the murders become more than a news story to him, and everything is on the line.

Joining forces, he and Krista set out to stop the killer. But when hunters pursue a hunter, the tables can easily turn. Only God can protect them now.

Enter the Terri Blackstock iPad CONTEST: http://www.terriblackstock.com/contests/.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Predator, go HERE.

Watch the book trailer video!

CFBA Review ~ Deadly Disclosure

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 20 May 2010 01:33:00 +0000

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing Deadly Disclosure New Leaf Publishing Group/Master Books (February 15, 2010) byJulie Cave

My Thoughts:

I loved the suspense and intrigue throughout the book. I am always surprised by how much I enjoy this genre, but I think it has a lot to do with the quality of the writing and the story line. Since I don't always choose this type of book as my first choice, any time I really enjoy the book, like I did with Deadly Disclosure, I feel confident in recommending it to others. I am thrilled that this book is the first of a trilogy too - I can't wait to read more!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Julie first heard a creation science speaker at her church when she was just 15, igniting her interest in creation science and sparking an enthusiasm for defending the Bible’s account of creation. She has obtained a degree in health science, and is currently completing a degree in law. Julie is married with one daughter and lives on the east coast of Australia.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Suspense-filled mystery which answers an ominous question: How far will some go to silence an influential Christian voice?

Thomas Whitfield, proud Secretary of the Smithsonian and its extensive scientific influence, has disappeared from his office with foul play suspected. Dinah Harris, an FBI agent struggling with alcohol and depression, is seeking answers amidst the fallout of her own personal issues.

Whitfield's body is eventually found, and other people connected to him begin dying as well, ultimately exposing a broader conspiracy connected to Whitfield's recent conversion to Christ and promotion of a biblical worldview in an academic world of financial gain hostile to this concept.

Will Dinah be able to experience the redemptive power of Christ before it's too late? Or will the ominous danger stalking her investigation claim another victim?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Deadly Disclosure, go HERE.

Watch the Video Book Trailer:

CFBA Review ~ Crossing Oceans

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 14 May 2010 22:03:00 +0000

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Crossing Oceans Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (May 1, 2010)

by Gina Holmes

My Thoughts:

This book was riveting and heart-breakingly beautiful. I could not put it down. Jenny Lucas is a character I will not soon forget.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Gina Holmes began her career in 1998, penning articles and short stories. In 2005 she founded the influential literary blog, Novel Journey. She holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her husband and children in southern Virginia. To learn more about her, visit May 2010's issue of CFOM at Interview with Gina Holmes or Novel Journey.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jenny Lucas swore she’d never go home again. But being told you’re dying has a way of changing things. Years after she left, she and her five-year-old daughter, Isabella, must return to her sleepy North Carolina town to face the ghosts she left behind. They welcome her in the form of her oxygen tank–toting grandmother, her stoic and distant father, and David, Isabella’s dad . . . who doesn’t yet know he has a daughter. As Jenny navigates the rough and unknown waters of her new reality, the unforgettable story that unfolds is a testament to the power of love and its ability to change everything—to heal old hurts, bring new beginnings . . . even overcome the impossible. A stunning debut about love and loss from a talented new voice.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Crossing Oceans, go HERE.

Watch the Video Book Trailer:

CFBA Review ~ A Woman Called Sage

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 13 May 2010 01:00:00 +0000

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing A Woman Called SageZondervan (April 1, 2010)byDiAnn Mills
My Thoughts:

Although similar in subject to many other books I've read, this book stood out as unique and interesting. I think it was the combination of the suspenseful plot combined with the time period. It made for an unforgettable read! DiAnn Mills has yet to disappoint me with any of her books I've read.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Award-winning author, DiAnn Mills, launched her career in 1998 with the publication of her first book. Currently she has over forty books in print and has sold more than a million copies.

DiAnn believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” DiAnn Mills is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels.

Six of her anthologies have appeared on the CBA Best Seller List. Three of her books have won the distinction of Best Historical of the Year by Heartsong Presents. Five of her books have won placements through American Christian Fiction Writer’s Book of the Year Awards 2003 – 2007, and she is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005 and 2007. She was a Christy Awards finalist in 2008.

DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Romance Writers of America’s Faith, Hope and Love, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is also a mentor for Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writer’s Guild.

She lives in sunny Houston, Texas. DiAnn and her husband have four adult sons and are active members of Metropolitan Baptist Church.

ABOUT THE BOOK

They took away everything she loved...now, she’s out for revenge.

Sage Morrow had it all: life on a beautiful Colorado ranch, a husband who adored her, and a baby on the way. Until five ruthless gunmen rode up to their ranch and changed her life forever. Now Sage is a bounty hunter bent on retribution.

Accompanied only by her majestic hawk, she travels throughout the Rocky Mountains in search of injustice, determined to stamp it out wherever it’s found. The stakes are raised when two young boys are kidnapped and Sage is forced to work with Marshall Parker Timmons to rescue them. But Sage may ultimately get more than she bargained for.

In this exciting historical romance set in the late 1800s, murder, intrigue, kidnapping, and questions of faith will keep you in suspense until the final pages.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Woman Called Sage, go HERE.

Watch the Video Book Trailer:

Sibling Love

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 07 May 2010 01:39:00 +0000

Like all kids, our kids fight with each other. They get on each other's nerves. (Not to mention mine!) They have to be told to keep their hands to themselves or to not be mean more times than I can count.

But sometimes, every once in a great while, their love for each other is palpable. And that is most definitely a finer thing!

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday.

CFBA Review ~ Spring's Renewal

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sat, 01 May 2010 03:21:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Spring's Renewal

Avon Inspire (April 2010)

by Shelley Shepherd Gray

My Thoughts:

Although a little predictable, this was a very sweet story. I really enjoy Shelley Shepherd Gray's insight and take on the Amish community. I feel an understanding that I've never known before when I read her books. That alone is a great asset to this book. Add in a sweet story and a pleasant read and this book is a good way to spend an afternoon or two!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Since 2000, Shelley Sabga has sold twenty-six novels to numerous publishers. She has written a seven book contemporary series for Avalon books. She also published The Love Letter, a western for Avalon. Five Star Expressions published Suddenly, You in February of 2007. This novel is a historical western set in the mountains of Colorado.

Shelley has written nine novels for Harlequin American Romance. Cinderella Christmas, her first novel with them, reached number six on the Waldenbooks Bestseller list. Her second book with them, Simple Gifts won RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice award for best Harlequin American Romance of 2006. The Mommy Bride, was chosen by Romantic Times Magazine as one of their TOP PICKS for May, 2008.

Under the name Shelley Shepard Gray, Shelley writes Amish romances for Harper Collins’ inspirational line, Avon Inspire. HIDDEN and WANTED the first two novels of her ‘Sisters of the Heart’ series, were chosen to be Alternate Selections for the Doubleday/ Literary Guild Book Club. FORGIVEN, book 3, has received glowing reviews. Avon Inspire will release four novels by Shelley in 2010.

Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelors and masters degrees in education. She now lives in southern Ohio and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two teenagers, and is an active member of her church.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tim Graber arrives in Sugarcreek to help his aunt and uncle with spring planting. At first, Tim doesn't fit in with his many cousins and their crowded lifestyle. But when he meets Clara Slabaugh, the local school teacher, he understands why the Lord brought him to Sugarcreek.

Clara is shy and quiet. Scarred from a fire when she was small, Clara has resigned herself to living alone and caring for her mother, who tells her that no man will ever see past her scars, and that Clara needs to keep teaching in order to make ends meet.

Her father passed away years ago, and her mother depends on her. But the scars mean nothing to Tim. He appreciates her quiet nature and her wonderful, loving way with children. Yet Tim has a sweetheart back home in Indiana. As these two hearts struggle to determine their path, tragedy strikes, and every other worry seems insignificant in comparison.

Though they now face a life they never imagined, will Tim and Clara have the faith to step out and risk everything for a chance at true love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Spring's Renewal, go HERE.

A Library Card

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 01:08:00 +0000

I don't think this picture needs much explanation.

But allow me to set the scene for you.

A 5 year old boy who loves to read learns how to print his first and last name. Said 5 year old boy knows that is the requirement to get your very own, personal library card. He has a project due for school that requires a trip to the library. He begs, pleads and asks as patiently as a 5 year old boy can, if he can finally get his own library card now.

And so he does.

I don't know which of these things is finer - the sense of accomplishment and pride Alex felt, or the whole big world that was just opened up for him.

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday.