in wonder

under construction?

2012-04-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

YES.
me and
this blog.
If you would like to read on
join me

HERE ☺

third graders, third graders...what do you see?

2012-04-18T11:37:00.001-07:00

we see a big yellow bus ☺

driving us downtown.

we see

Byham Theator

where we will watch Treasured Stories!

mommy, mommy

what do you see?

I see a little third grader

taking a picture of me :)

this was my first time to visit the Byham Theator.

(they are in dire need of new ceiling paint.)

lovely

and ornate detail

combined with odd cherub like figures

influenced by greek mythology

give this theater a

"Las Vegas" feel.

we saw

Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia's

much-anticipated new production

A Brown Bear, A Caterpillar And A Moon: Treasured Stories

(three of Eric Carle's most beloved tales.).

We give them 5 big yellow stars

for great entertainment

WHAT an amAzing black light show

bringing laugh-out-loud

adorable personality

to the hungry, hungry Caterpillar

(this is a non "shushing" show)

and there is nothing better than hearing

the spontaneous laughter

of children (and adults).

(so worth the occasional booger on the sleeve☺)

at the end they had a question and answer time

revealing some of the "secrets"

and turning the black lights onto the audience

who responded with great delight

to see their teeth (and everything white) glowing.

after it is all over...

outside

we see

spring is still

wonderful

Eric Carle and his hungry Caterpillar

Google paid tribute to Carle and his book The Very Hungry Caterpillar by asking him to design their logo "Google doodle", on their home page on March 20, 2009, celebrating the first day of spring.

One Anothering

2012-04-12T12:02:00.002-07:00

by Simon Schrock

I have been reading this book for months. It's really not very long. Not difficult to read. The trouble is WHAT to do with a book that is so simple and hard all at once? How do I "one-another" the woman whose son is autistic? She tells me they have been to 3 or 4 churches with the same response. He is disruptive. (he looks "normal" so they are told it is due to poor parenting). The one who suffers from anxiety and can not even bring themselves to enter the church building? (tell them not to forsake the assembling together? really?) The new family in town that are probably illegal immigrants? I guess this book has truly challenged me to ask myself, is there someone I would leave lying on the side of the road?

"Much of what is called counseling and correcting among believers is ineffective and hits dead soil. It may not be because the counselor uses the wrong words or gives the wrong answers, but simply that there has been no prior established relationship. Their has been no prior affirmation of worth and appreciation for the other person... Therefore, the one being counseled has nothing to lose by turning a deaf ear."

Wow. "Nothing to lose". The difference between "pharisee" and "good samaritan"?. One Anothering prompts us to be genuine and loving in our relationships with Christ as our example.

When the load gets heavy-the world crushes you down.

The Church bears one another's burdens.

When you become weak-the world runs over you.

The Church prays for one another.

When you fail-the world scoffs and writes you off.

The Church forgives one another.

When you are lonely-the world makes you more miserable.

The church practices hospitality to one another.

When you are a misfit-the world calls you a misfit.

The church receives another another. You are special.

When you have a chance-the world grabs it from you.

The Church prefers one another.

(from Chapter 13)

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

His Work of Art...

2012-04-10T12:46:00.009-07:00

You.

yes

You!

and

me.

His work of art ♥

redeemed necklace

♪There is a Redeemer♪

is singing

in my head...

"REDEEMED" written on soft navy blue t-shirt

reminds me constantly to

¹⁸ Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds;

tie them as symbols on your hands

and bind them on your foreheads.

¹⁹ Teach them to your children,

talking about them when you sit at home

and when you walk along the road,

when you lie down and when you get up.

²⁰ Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates...

—to love the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him and to hold fast to him—

from Deuteronomy 11

Jewelry tabletop mirror

I'm so happy to tell you...
Dayspring is giving one of you lovely commenters
the Vintage Glass Vase
(pictured below)
new to the Redeemed collection.
shipping and handling charges do apply.

Comment 4/10 until 4/17
if you would like to win this beautiful vase!

*Congratulations to Amber!*
The winner will be randomly drawn and I will email you a coupon code. It can only be used for this vase and YOU are responsible for shipping
what is your favorite item in the Redeemed collection?
I don't know about you, but even fresh "weeds" in a vase make me happy ☺.

I received these products for the purpose of review.

icb

2012-04-10T11:18:00.001-07:00

I was not familiar

with the International Children's Bible.

from what I have researched...

21 Bible scholars carefully chose words

at a third grade reading level for this translation.

"Jesus asked the little ones to come to Him, and the International Children's Bible makes it a little easier for them to hear His call." - Max Lucado

This Bible is ballerina pink ☺.

there is a colorful Bible timeline creation --> church

as well as simple maps in the back

I wish that it did include a concordance (most children's Bibles do not)

as far as the translation...I think of my Grandma who grew up

in the King James only era.

She once told me that she often reads out of the

Living Bible because it is so easy to understand. ☺

We must handle God's word carefully.

(the truth is, the amount of Bible/person in the world

is a more problematic issue to me than NIV, KJV, ESV, or ICB...)

My desire is that my children and their friends

learn to love the Word of God

at an early age...

so until they can study the Hebrew and Greek for themselves

there is the ICB.

*ages 7-12

*Beautiful ballerina-inspired design for today’s girls who love ballet or who love a pretty, feminine look

*Full text of the International Children’s Bible^®

*Presentation page for personalizing

*Includes full-color maps and dictionary/concordance

Product Link

I received a copy of this Bible for the purpose of review.

2012-04-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

God Himself will provide the sacrifice.

rest.

rejoice.

He IS RISEN!

listen?...

joining with WFW

YUMmy

2012-04-02T17:37:00.002-07:00

the autumn garlic is coming up!

R is teaching the girls how to seed "hack"

and transplant

(in the converted guestroom temporary "green"house☺)

all of this has my mouth watering

for fresh out of the garden summer tomatoes and zucchini...

yum.

summer is coming!

...but for now

I'm thinking (it's never too soon)

to heat up the grill...

Simply Grilling 105 Recipes for Quick and Casual Grilling

By Jennifer Chandler
Published by Thomas Nelson

how about these simply delicious ribs?

finished off with some grilled peach pound cake?

(even upside-down it looks yummy, right?!)

What I like about this "grill" book:

☺it does cover the basics

☺does not call for hard to find ingredients

☺is basically simple and

☺family friendly

Book Description
If your grilling repertoire is limited to burgers and hot dogs, it might be time to reconsider your grill’s true potential. Think beyond that typical backyard menu, and imagine serving up a platter of skewered Caribbean Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa or a Balsamic Beef Tenderloin alongside an Asparagus and Cherry Tomato Salad. Memphis chef Jennifer Chandler has assembled everything a grilling amateur could possibly need to achieve pitmaster caliber results any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking with gas, charcoal, or cast iron, Simply Grilling will eliminate the uncertainty and have you manning the flames with confidence.
In her accessible style, Chandler explains everything—the tools, the heat, and the flavors. If you’ve always found grilling to be a guessing game, you’ll never have to wonder again if the heat is just right or if you flipped your food too soon. From appetizers to desserts and everything in between, Simply Grilling is your guide to delicious meals, hot off the grate.
I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review. ☺

it's a lot about trees...

2012-03-28T14:34:00.002-07:00

this beautiful
unseasonably warm (for March)

Sunday afternoon
we stopped in on
friends.

they were cutting down "ginormous" pines (I think)
that were blocking
LIGHT.

the kids ran
in the beauty

even through
the "down-the-road"
(quaint) cemetery.

"it was creepy, mom." she said.
"there was fresh dirt".

and I thought...
it is a lot about dirt, isn't it?

God knows we are.
Genesis is just the
beginning...

the tree of

"choice"

born to a

carpenter (step-father)

Jesus knew

the wood (of tree)

(and nails)

in the worst

way

This day I call the heavens and the earth

as witnesses against you

that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses.

Now choose life,

so that you and your children may live

and that you may love the LORD your God,

listen to his voice...

(dirt

and life

and death

and light

and

"Easter" was everywhere...)

and hold fast to Him.

For the LORD is your life...

from Deuteronomy 30:19-20

joining with

Walk with Him and

WFW

Stick-to-it

2012-03-26T12:11:00.010-07:00

A story about never giving up.

"God's commitment to children is so much greater than any parent could ever offer...God's angels do the will of our Father in heaven and always point the attention back to Him. That's Gabby's job throughout this series." Sheila Walsh

Every page of this sweet book is adorably illustrated. It is written in fun and colorful font that makes it an easy read for little readers. (and something you "need" to know that you can't see from the photo...the cover flap is "glittered" ☺)

Coloring pages ☺

Enter today!

About the book: Gabby's Stick-to-It-Day

Gabby is a little guardian angel with a big job to do! Watching over Sophie is hard work, but Gabby knows that God wants her to stick to it.

Gabby, God’s Little Angel, flies to the rescue as Sophie attempts to help others but has a little trouble sticking with things. Sophie tries to be helpful by washing the family dog for her mom, but she gives up when she’s the one who ends up all wet. She then tries to be kind by reading to her little brother, but he has plans of his own, which include a splash of cereal right in Sophie’s face! When Sophie is ready to quit once again, it’s up to Gabby to encourage her to keep trying and to teach her what the Bible says about perseverance:

“We must not become tired of doing good.

We will receive our harvest of eternal life

at the right time

if we do not give up.”

(Galatians 6:9 NCV)

Sheila Walsh is a Bible teacher, speaker, singer, and best-selling author with more than 4 million books sold. Sheila Walsh is the creator of the award-winning Gigi, God's Little Princess® brand, which has sold over 1.5 million units and won two National Retailer's Choice Awards. As a featured speaker with Women of Faith®, Sheila has reached more than 3.5 million women by artistically combining honesty, vulnerability and humor with God's Word. She resides in Dallas with her husband Barry and son Christian.

Visit www.sheilawalsh.com for more information about Sheila, her other books or Women of Faith.

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

O Praise Him!

2012-03-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

the air is warmer

the trees are covered in little buds

splashes of color

coming up

everywhere ☺

O Praise Him

joining with WFW

God l♥ves broken people

2012-03-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

“If I could write only one book in my lifetime,”

Sheila Walsh says, “I would ask God to make it this one.”

I have said this before...and again. Sheila Walsh is on my list of "hero's" of the faith. Not because she's perfect. Or even that I agree with everything she says. But God's strength was made perfect in her weakness. She courageously shared her battle with depression (in the 90's) when it was not the "cool thing" to do in Christian circles. And while she was receiving public criticism God was using her story to give hope to an unreached and ostracized group of "lepers" in the church. Warning: If you have not been broken you may not "get" this book, it is probably not the read for you. (I just read what I wrote and thought, wow, this girl throws out some strong review opinions ☺) Sheila writes, "It's not that God loves broken people more than those who imagine themselves to be whole - it's simply that they know that they are loved." If you are a "broken" one, be assured that you are not alone. Do you know that you are loved?

2 Corinthians 4:6-10

⁶ For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”

made his light shine in our hearts

to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory

displayed in the face of Christ.

⁷ But we have this treasure in jars of clay

to show that this all-surpassing power is from God

and not from us.

⁸ We are hard pressed on every side,

but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;

⁹ persecuted, but not abandoned;

struck down, but not destroyed.

¹⁰ We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus,

so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

Sheila’s 2012 Women of Faith messages are built around the concepts in God Loves Broken People. Now you have the opportunity to get a taste of her topic even before the event! The book includes a twelve-section Bible study (one for each chapter) so you can dig into the Word with a group or on your own.

In typical Sheila fashion, she promises not to “offer you a nice, tidy system of belief that heals all wounds, brings out the sunshine, or inspires the angels to thunder the Hallelujah Chorus.” Instead, in twelve stirring, insightful, and deeply revealing chapters, Sheila shows how personal brokenness can open doors of intimacy with Jesus Christ that might never open in any other way.

It’s not that God loves broken people more than those who imagine themselves to be whole―it’s simply that they know they are loved. They dare to believe it . . . and through such trust, a new wholeness emerges from yesterday’s broken pieces.

I received a copy of this book from Booksneeze for the purpose of review.

the Lily

2012-03-19T17:35:00.005-07:00

parable: a simple story that teaches a deeper truth

full circle...(how does God do that?!)

2012-03-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

30 days ago

or so...

and the ground was so frosted

this little valentine rose bush

the only bloom of color

(indoor)

I tried

a different lighting angle

with this broken down flash

every picture

still dark

(notice the bird feed pine-cone?)

and though I couldn't fix

the lighting

each picture

is my personal

reminder...

When I can not see

God is still at work.

2002 little one got too "wiggly"

to come with me to youth.

They all turned and watched her instead of him.

That's when I first met "her".

She told R that she would be happy to open the nursery

every week on that night.

She did.

Practical love.

Ten years later

so much is different

(and so much story left out)...

little one, not so "wiggly" any more

now she has a turn to help

the same one

(who helped me)

then.

We hung the pine-cone bird treat

that cold day.

30 days

later

it looks like the birdies

snacked well ☺...

...the ground is thawing

little buds are growing

(where the summer pool will be)

color opens

everywhere...

God is always

working

...and I still wonder

at the mystery of this...

He has made everything beautiful in its time.

Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart,

yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11

More Beauty Less Beast

2012-03-14T12:24:00.001-07:00

Transforming Your Inner Ogre

"Appearance is on the top of most women's priority list.

And rightly so ---

We are reflections of our Creator.

But who decides what's beautiful

and what's not?"

Cultivate inner beauty,

the gentle,

gracious kind

that God delights in.

I Peter 3:4

More Beauty Less Beast was a fun, easy, light-hearted and truly timely read for me ☺. March has brought temperamental weather to these parts. Snow flakes floating through one 30 degree day...washed away by rain the next. And on a few days like today, the sunshine teases that it has come to stay. Oh, back to the book. Yes, all we need is to know that God loved us and gave Jesus as payment for our sins... Sometimes the weather of life can be temperamental. There are moments the faith of our friends do "carry" us to Jesus. This book is that kind of friend. You will laugh out loud. And most importantly be reminded that the King of all Kings will change you from the inside out.

Debora Coty is an occupational therapist, a piano teacher, and a freelance writer. She's also involved in the children's ministry at her church and is an avid tennis player. Debora began writing to fill the void when her last child left for college, and it has since become a passion. Debora has a real knack for getting across sound biblical concepts with a refreshing lightheartedness as attested in her monthly newspaper column entitled "Grace Notes: God's Grace for Everyday Living."
Visit www.deboracoty.com for more about Debora and her books.

{More about the Transform Your Inner Ogre Giveaway}

Using Biblical advice and her trademark humor, Debora Coty urges women to conquer guilt and re-institute hope in More Beauty, Less Beast. Celebrate with Debora by entering to win a $150 Visa Cash Card!

One "beautiful" winner will receive:

A $150 Visa Cash Card (Treat yourself to a spa day or weekend get-away!)
A Debora Coty Library (More Beauty, Less Beast, Too Blessed Too Be Stressed and Everyday Hope)
Chocolate (Every good thing begins with chocolate!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/22/12. Winner will be announced at Debora's "Divine Beauty" Facebook Party on 3/22. Debora will be hosting an evening of chat, fun beauty trivia, laughter, and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club and a live chat with Debora via Skype.)
So grab your copy of More Beauty, Less Beast and join Debora and friends on the evening of March 22nd for an evening of fun.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 22nd!

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

there's a paint roller in my refrigerator...

2012-03-06T12:23:00.004-08:00

and it "feels" like everything is in "project" mode around here. 3rd grade projects. SO many 5th grade prOjects. Piles of "in process", not finished...incomplete projects. If I tell the truth it is how I feel God looks at me sometimes... A project that He is not satisfied with. Hasn't turned out right yet ALL ready. Been there? Felt that?...(of course, we are in sanctification mode), but amAzing now?

This book is a breath of fresh air and encouragement. If you have not yet discovered

you are in for a blessing.

Join me and read along?
Bloom (in)courage book club ☺

*a portion of the author's proceeds will be donated to the Compassion International Leadership Development Program. (www.compassion.com)

Holley Gerth is an award winning writer, licensed counselor, certified life coach and speaker. She is cofounder of (in)courage, an online destination for women, which received more than one million page views in its first six months. She also reaches out to readers through her popular blog, Heart to Heart with Holley and through a partnership with DaySpring, a subsidiary of Hallmark. Holley lives in the South with her husband, Mark.

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

March rains...

2012-03-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

washing
winter

slowly

away...

new buds

and fun inspiration
(along neighbors driveway ☺)

...and the valentine rolls
we never made
in Feb.

taste just right.

How We Love Our Kids

2012-03-02T18:12:00.001-08:00

One Small Change in You...One Big Change in Your Kids

When I noticed "The 5 Love Styles of Parenting" on the cover, the first thing that came to mind was Gary Smalley's Five Love Languages.

THIS is not THAT ☺, but so very practical in a different way. The Miracle of God's design is that we are "wired" for connection. The "mess" or "FOO factor" of it all is that as good of a job any parent does they are still "broken people raising broken children in a broken world." Milan and Kay discuss 5 different parents: the Avoider, the Pleaser, the Vacillator, the Controller, and the Victim. What dynamics shape your parenting? This book is that it provides practical, easy to understand counsel, first for the parent. The seven gifts every child needs in part 4 was my absolute favorite and one I will refer back to. The first is the gift of insight. This is such a silly, small memory that came into mind, but I think it fits into what this chapter is talking about. When I was growing up my mom would occasionally make liver. In our family we had to eat a little bit of everything, so when I walked in the house and smelled the awful, HORRID, smell..well, my gag refluxes geared up and I began mental strategy. At dinner time I cut the liver into the smallest pieces possible and began to swallow them one at time (perhaps rather dramatically). I was not trying to be rebellious, just solve what I perceived as an impending life crisis. Thank the Lord, eventually it was decided that organ meat was not healthy for human consumption (at least at our house). As a result of that long story, my parenting received reasonable insight and compassion and we do not engage in food "battle". I am sure that I have provided my girls with an extensive list of how they might one day parent differently. The gift of comfort. The gift of power. The gift of frustration. The gift of confession. The gift of laughter. The gift of God: the perfect parent. Practical insight is given into special circumstances such as the premature baby, the hospitalized child, foster and adoptive children.

"How We Love our Kids offers a unique approach, to help you as a parent transform your kids by making specific changes in how you love.

Take the Love Style Quiz ♥

Meet Milan and Kay Yerkovich
"real people on real journey"

How We Love Our Kids by Milan and Kay Yerkovitch (Chapter 1 Excerpt)

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

"What if Adam's Rib is no longer willing to be the church's backbone?"

2012-03-02T18:10:00.006-08:00

The Resignation of Eve
Publisher: Tyndale House
Pub Date: February 1, 2012
ISBN: 9781414337302

Jim Henderson
Nonfiction - Adult: Philosophy, Religion and Spirituality: Religion: Christian Church

Author Jim Henderson does provide a thought provokingly (somewhat controversial), yet enjoyably informative read. The Resignation of Eve basically addresses the issue of women in leadership in evangelical churches.What can you expect to take away from this book?
You will learn about women and church.
To feel uncomfortable (at least once)...
You may even learn something new about yourself.
I found this book to be a fascinating mix of interview and dialogue addressing varying views. How do we treat women in church? I hear what is being said. I also see how Scripture is manipulated on (both) sides of the spectrum. There is great comfort found in being "under" the pastoral leadership of godly men. Jesus was greatly criticized for time and conversation he had with women. Jesus gave value to women and they followed his good, good Leadership, using whatever gifts they had in support. (my thoughts). Is the issue really that a growing number of qualified and gifted women want to be in "leadership" and are not received? Maybe. Or perhaps there are just more women who are exhausted of being the submits under men in leadership who are in sin and powerful enough to stay in position, MISuse authority. Maybe true "lead"ership doesn't happen up front or in an organization at all. Church really isn't that different than it was in Jesus day, is it? Religious "buildings" are still places for the rule-making, knowledge-filled Pharisees and Sadducees to meet and impose their views. The Word of God is still picked apart to back "sides". Women are still "less" and have more "rules". Men still have more "power", more "voice" and freedom. And men, or women, is your leadership "ego fed" or spirit led??? So...(that's just in the church.) Ok, so let's think outside the box. Palin could not be "pastor" of her church, but what if she ran in the elections vs. Obama. Would you vote for Palin or Obama? and how does what you believe Scripture says about women in leadership dictate that??? then it all goes out the window.☺ I did mention that this book is thought provoking.

"Men sometimes accuse women of being indirect in order to get their way. We jokingly refer to it as "the neck that turns the head," meaning as long as it appears women aren't actually leading, we'll let them do the work. We'll give the the responsibility but not authority. Can you imagine Jesus doing that?" Henderson

At the end of the book, I am left with/reminded of this comforting thought (first brought to my attention and taught to me by Beth Moore in the study of Daniel. smile.)

He changes times and seasons;

he sets up kings and deposes them.

He gives wisdom to the wise

and knowledge to the discerning.

Daniel 2:21

In talking with women around the country, Jim Henderson has come to believe that there is an epidemic of quiet, even sad resignation among dedicated Christian women who are feeling overworked and undervalued in the church. As a result, many women are discouraged. Some, particularly young women, respond by leaving the organized church . . . or walking away from the faith altogether.

Containing personal interviews with women and new research from George Barna, The Resignation of Eve is a field report on what women have to say about how they’ve been affected by their experiences within the church. It is crucially important because, across the board, the research shows that women are driving changes in the church . . . so what will happen if they resign?
Inviting women to speak for themselves, The Resignation of Eve is a must-read, life-changing book for women who have been engaged in the Christian church as well as their pastors and ministry leaders.

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review through NetGalley.

"gloriously messy"

2012-02-24T13:46:00.002-08:00

Focused on Christ

Fulfilled in Marriage

"Don't let the title confuse you. This isn't a book for women pursuing physical beauty or perfection as defined by our culture. The Beautiful Wife is a book for the gloriously messy woman who has serious and not-so-serious questions about her role as a wife..."

Sandy Ralya challenges women to create an attitude of beauty in the home.

to promote peace

(instead of quarreling)

contentment

(instead of complaining)

to be slow to anger

The Prayer Journal provides a place to "do" the hard work needed to produce desired beautiful results. The journal is made up of organized spaces giving opportunity to memorize, respond to Scripture and write in prayer. Each section in the journal is a response to the corresponding chapter in the book.

I also received a copy of the Mentor's Guide. This book is specifically put together to use with the Beautiful Wife curriculum. However, in many ways it is practical for anyone who is hosting a small group with practical tips on simplifying hospitality and creating a warm atmosphere, guidance on becoming a confident mentor, as well as weekly leader materials and optional activities.

caution:for the humble. the broken.for the woman willing to be last and serve.

About the book:

The Beautiful Wife uses these inspiring stories along with biblical principles to guide and encourage any wife looking for God's best in her marriage. The Beautiful Wife answers serious questions women have about their roles as wives. Discussing everything from romance and money to beauty, communication, and sex, Sandy challenges women to open up and share their journeys so that together they can see God's plan for their marriages. "It is my passion to help women discover God's heart for their marriage, just as the other women helped me," writes Sandy. "When women share with each other the details of their journeys with God as wives, it's a beautiful thing indeed." The Beautiful Wife has two companion resources - Prayer Journal and Mentor's Guide.

Meet Sandy Ralya:

Sandy Ralya is the founder and director of Beautiful Womanhood, a marriage mentoring ministry based near Grand Rapids, Mich. Her marriage testimony was the focus of a popular three-day interview on FamilyLife Today, TV's Walking by Faith, and Time Out for Women. Sandy is a sought-after speaker, presenting Beautiful Womanhood seminars to hundreds of women each year at MOPS groups, women's retreats, and church leadership conferences across the country and in Canada. Sandy and her husband Tom have been married since 1980, and have a growing number of grandchildren. www.beautifulwomanhood.com

Link to buy the book
Beautiful Womanhood

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/7/12. Winner will be announced at Sandy's "Beautiful Womanhood" Facebook Party on 3/8. Sandy will be hosting an evening of chat, laughter and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, prayer journals, gift certificates and a live chat with Sandy for your Bible study or small group!

So grab your copy of The Beautiful Wife and join Sandy and friends on the evening of March 8th for an evening of fun.
blog tour

Win a Kindle Touch and RSVP for FB party 3/8!

One beautiful winner will receive

A Brand new Kindle Touch with Wi-Fi

The Beautiful Wife by Sandy Ralya

The Beautiful Wife Prayer Journal and Mentor's Guide by Sandy Ralya

Enter Today and Save the Date-3/8!

I received copies of these books for the purpose of review.

nothing too small...

2012-02-19T18:56:00.000-08:00

On a little walk

and I thought

about

Creation

and the little mouse "tale" ☺.

It is true.

God's is purposeful

in what He has created.

so as I walked

no green

went

unnoticed.

no "weed" was

unlovely

(who decides anyway)

are you kidding me?!

yellow ANYthing is like

sunshine

this cold time

of year. (smile)

no color

too little

early ☺

"In the beginning, God created"

...with these words, the Bible powerfully sets in motion

our praise to the Creator for His awesome work.

written and beaUtifully illustrated

by Helen and David Haidle

(Remember Bombus the bumblebee?

same happy artwork)

see the bright colors?!

The creation story from Genesis 1-2

vibrantly illustrated.

includes interesting facts of the unique design

of twenty different creatures

God created...

amazing senses

amazing colors and shapes

God hears me.

God understands and knows everything I'm thinking.

God even knows what I'm going to say

before I speak one word.

Psalm 139.

Stephanie Z. Townsend

My eight year old saw this book and immediately asked if she could read it to me. Her "review" of this book was that it reminded her of The Little Engine that Could. Hhmmm. I do see how she would think that ☺. The little mouse starts to think that it is too small to do anything at all, but keeps trying. The author's desire in this delightful story is that children will know how much God loves them and has a special purpose for their life.

a kind bird offers the discouraged little mouse some words of wisdom.

"Yes, you are young and you are small, but God the Creator made you!"

We enjoyed this ~~tail~~ of a small mouse who learned this important faith message!

I received these books for the purpose of review.

Gigi ☺

2012-02-19T17:19:00.000-08:00

She is as spunky

as her dark bouncy curls.

Determined

and sometimes a little bit

dramatic...

it's Gigi.

Little girl

"princess"

always learning

how a daughter of the King

is to love

(herself) and everyone around.

(we think that Gigi is probably 5 or 6...oh my. seems like just yesterday

she was older than my girls)

We discovered the fun Bonus features ☺

H's favorite being

the "learn how to draw" segments with the artist who draws Gigi.

Real Princesses Treat Everyone Like Royalty

join her royal pinkness☺ in this four-part dvd series

as she learns that it is a princess's royal honor to help others feel as special as she does.

The Royal Tea Party

based on Ephesians 1:5

The Pink Ballerina

Galatians 6:9

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

The Royal Circus

I John 4:7

The Pink Surprise

Luke 10:21

God Made Princesses in All Shapes and Sizes!

God made each of His daughters with her own unique look

and the beauty He looks for is found in the he♥rt.

The Princess Hair Do

I Peter 3:3-4

A Trip to the Zoo

I Samuel 16:7

Gigi and the Purple Ponies

Romans 12:6

The Ginormous Sneeze

Philippians4:6-7

*ages 4-7

*Teaches little girls to love people, not things, and shows them that they are created special and beautiful!

*Perfect for princesses young and old!

*Each DVD has 4 full-length episodes.

Real Princesses
All Shapes and Sizes

I received copies of these dvd's for the purpose of review.

I include this short clip of author Sheila Walsh in hopes that you might be encouraged (as I have) by her passionate and honest walk with Jesus.

Give A Way ☺

2012-02-09T04:00:00.000-08:00

COMMENT if you would like a copy of Mornings With Jesus!
the give-away ends 2/13 and I will notify the winner 2/14.

Mornings with Jesus is a devotional guide. I like to think of these "dailys" as a little snack to feed the hungry soul...not to be substituted for an iron-rich meal in the Word of God☺.

About the book:

"Be still and know that I am God.” is one of the most beautiful verses from the Bible, but it’s not easy to practice in this busy world. Mornings with Jesus will help you do just that—“be still” in Jesus’ beautiful and powerful presence. For those who are seeking a deeper experience in their relationship with Christ, Mornings with Jesus offers a fresh perspective of who Jesus is (the Healer, the Son of God, the Comforter, the Good Shepherd) and what that means for day-to-day life. With a warm and friendly voice, 365 short devotional writings on the character and teachings of Jesus encourage readers to greet each day by drawing near to Him and inviting His presence into their day. Spend time with Jesus at the beginning of each day and experience His nearness and peace in a new way throughout the year. Each day’s selection includes: • a Bible verse • an entry based on Jesus: His words, miracles, and parables; His wisdom, compassion, and comfort; His mystery, power, divinity, and humanity • a “faith step” that will inspire and challenge readers to apply the day’s message to their lives.

Blog tour schedule:
http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13452857)

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

another "favorite" holiday ♥

2012-02-06T10:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks giving

CHRISTmas

(they say super-bowl food

competes with those)

but somehow,

February brings a peace and calm.

A reminder that

We love

because

HE 1st loved.

and giving is

unexpected

joy ♥.

We celebrate Valentine's Day big...

and have not for years sent out Christmas cards

rather tradition this month

sister picture/heart cards ☺.

I sit on the floor (late after bedtime)

with this first Joy, now 10

learning to budget my picture "allowances" (she says, "not now, mom").

and we use a bent metal cookie cutter

to trace hearts on

December's cards.

I treasure these moments.

Life is always changing, isn't it?!

Just for fun here's a little February give-away ☺.

Barbara Johnson's Humor Me :)

A hand warmer

cookie cutter (to celebrate the warm/rainy start of Feb!)

crochet heart "hot" pad and flower magnet

love bookmark

Comment as many times as you would like,

and tell me what you "enjoy"

You do not need to be a blogger to comment...(if not, the easiest way may be to comment as anonymous and leave your name so I can contact you if you win!)

I would love to hear from you!

this give away will go until 2/13

and I will contact the winner 2/14

along with the winner of this book ☺.

On 2/9 I will be giving away a copy of Mornings With Jesus.

congrats to comments 1 Lora, 4 Andean and Jen on fb :)

Shaking it up...

2012-01-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

"The goal of this book is to shake you up a little". ☺ Jenna's passion for the reader to understand how BIG God is and not to settle for lifeless faith is evident from the first pages.

Jesus says "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10

I was trying to figure out what age group From Blah to Awe is geared for...probably 12-16 year old girls. The book is conversational with space in each chapter for the reader's response. As I read I experienced a flood of mixed emotions from feeling "old" and out of touch ☺with this precious generation of girls, to feeling blessed and thankful that my girls will have godly role models. Looking forward in the coming years to being able to participate in the Revolve Tour!

Jenna Lucado Bishop
Speaker at the Revolve Tour

daughter of best-selling author Max Lucado
“What if I told you that the unachievable is achievable, that the maybe can be, that the unthinkable is thinkable? God tells us that with him ANYTHING is possible. It’s time to hope higher, expect greater and dream bigger. God wants more for your life.”

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

link

2012-01-29T14:13:00.000-08:00

STRENGTH

in wonder

under construction?

third graders, third graders...what do you see?

One Anothering

His Work of Art...

Comment 4/10 until 4/17 if you would like to win this beautiful vase!

icb

YUMmy

it's a lot about trees...

Stick-to-it

O Praise Him!

God l♥ves broken people

the Lily

full circle...(how does God do that?!)

More Beauty Less Beast

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 22nd!

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.

there's a paint roller in my refrigerator...

March rains...

How We Love Our Kids

"What if Adam's Rib is no longer willing to be the church's backbone?"

"gloriously messy"

nothing too small...

Gigi ☺

Give A Way ☺

another "favorite" holiday ♥

Shaking it up...

link

Comment 4/10 until 4/17
if you would like to win this beautiful vase!