Karen's Korner

The Harvest of Grace

2012-01-27T11:33:00.000-08:00

About the Book: The Harvest of Grace is the third and final book in Ada’s House. Come join us for the conclusion of this New York Times best-selling series as beloved characters from The Hope of Refuge and The Bridge of Peace continue to grow in their love and commitment to one another.
In The Harvest of Grace, you’ll be introduced to two unique characters ~ Sylvia Fischer who is reeling from an unexpected betrayal, is someone who recognizes that most Old Order Amish women her age spend their hours managing a household and raising babies. Sylvia has just one focus—tending and nurturing the herd on her family’s dairy farm. But when a dangerous connection with an old beau forces her to move far from home, she decides to concentrate on a new start and pour her energy into reviving another family’s debt-ridden farm. Aaron Blank returns home to sell his Daed’s failing farm and move his parents into an easier lifestyle. Two things stand in his way: the father who stubbornly refuses to recognize that Aaron has changed and the determined new farmhand his parents love like a daughter. Her influence on Aaron’s parents could ruin his plans to escape the burdens of farming and build a new life. Can Aaron and Sylvia find common ground? Or will their unflinching efforts toward opposite goals blur the bigger picture— a path to forgiveness, glimpses of grace, and the promise of love.

Click here to read Chapter One

About the Author: Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author who has written six novels, three novellas, and Plain Wisdom, a work of nonfiction coauthored with her dearest Old Order Amish friend, Miriam Flaud. She’s been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal, and has worked with National Geographic on a documentary concerning Amish life. She is also a veteran homeschool mom who no longer holds that position. As her children progressed in age, her desire to write grew stronger. After working through reservations whether this desire was something she should pursue, she began her writing journey. Her husband was her staunchest supporter as she aimed for what seemed impossible. She’s won Fiction Book of the Year, Reviewer’s Choice Awards, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Contest, and was one of Crossings Best Books of the Year. She’s been a finalist for the prestigious Christy, Rita, and Carol Awards, Christian Book of the Year, and Christian Retailers Choice Awards. Want to know more about Cindy Woodsmall? Then check out her website.

My Thoughts on the Book: I have to say that this book by far exceeded my expectations!! I love reading Cindy Woodsmall and always expect her books to be good, but this one was great! From the moment I began reading the book and its characters drug me in and I could not put it down until I finished it. This particular story is full of twists and turns that you just don't expect in the average Amish novel. Not all is well in Camelot and you find romance gone bad, a single woman kissing a married man, an Amish man in rehab because of alcoholism, all topics one normally does not associate with the Amish or Mennonite world. Even though this was the third book in a series it stands alone and there is a wonderful refresher course in the beginning. If you are a lover of Amish reads then this one is definitely for you!

FTC Disclaimer: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group’ Blogging for Books program for this review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Every Day I Fall In Love With You Again

2012-01-26T06:35:00.000-08:00

Today is my ninth wedding anniversary and I was feeling pretty sappy this morning....so I thought I would write a little sappy poem for my cherished husband. We are the kind of couple that really do not need special days to tell each other we love each other... or give each other gifts. But today I just wanted to give Frank a little shout out. He has truly blessed my life with his presence and love. I am grateful that God thought we needed each other. We did!

Frank,

From the first time I met you so many years ago.

I knew that I loved you, my heart told me so.

I fell hard for you then with my heart and my soul.

And it was with you that I knew I would grow old.

Each anniversary year finds me happier than the last;
You are my heart, my light, my present, future, and past.
You define for me what love is about,
Loving you makes me want to lift my voice and shout.

Time passes, yet, our love grows deeper.I knew when I fell...you would be a keeper.
Being your wife is oh such a pleasureI love you darling, you are my favorite treasure.

God has blessed us so much in these past short nine yearsThere have been many smiles salted briefly with tears.You fill me with wonder, you are my best friendIf I could I would marry you all over again!

May God's blessings continue and we walk hand in handYou are one in a million, you are my kind of man.Whatever life deals us we will be together....And I will love you my darling....from now til forever! Happy Anniversary, Frank! I love you!

Hodge Podge Week 63

2012-01-25T00:06:00.000-08:00

It is Wednesday, the day before my 9th wedding anniversary and time for another exciting Hodge Podge. This is week 63 and I am amazed that Joyce continues to come up with such thought provoking answers. The nice thing about her Hodge Podge is that you don't have to have been a part of it from the beginning. This is something you can join at any time and I hope you will come and join us over at Joyce's Blog and link up with everyone there. Here are her questions for the week:

1. The NFL playoffs were held this past weekend and this year's Superbowl lineup will feature The New York Giants versus The New England Patriots. How do you define 'patriot'? To me a patriot is a person who supports their country with all they have and is prepared to defend it against enemies.

2. What's something in your life right now that feels like a 'giant'? My weight. Every time I seem to get a handle on it someone dies and here comes all the fried chicken, cakes, pies, and offerings of love….southern style.

3. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think back to being 18? Graduation from high school! Whoooo Hooooo! I could not wait to get out of that place. Here I am at nearly 58….with at least another 3 years to go. What was I thinking????? I made it out once….and chose to go back???

4. Coconut-mashed potatoes-vanilla ice cream-mayonnaise...which white food would be the hardest to give up? Mashed potatoes. I don’t eat coconut or mayonnaise….so that would not be an issue. I am Irish born and bread…and love me some potatoes. Vanilla Ice cream is wonderful too…but I don’t crave it.

5. Describe an incident or a day you remember as the coldest you've ever experienced? Last year it froze here in Alabama and the school I work at did not close….I live an hour away….north. The schools in the town I live in were all closed….as were the roads. I left my house and drove 4 miles….terrified. When I got to Roanoke I decided I needed to call and check on the bridge at the Tallapoosa River and see if it were open. Cars were slipping and sliding everywhere…I am from Florida….I was terrified. I called the Randolph County Sheriff’s Dept. and was told in no uncertain terms…that ALL the roads and the bridge were closed or barricaded. I turned around and crawled the four miles back to my house.

6. You're hosting a brunch...what's your favorite dish to prepare and serve? This is hard. I cater on the side….hummmm…mini quiche is a good one….or bacon wrapped sausages….or breakfast rollups….or chicken enchilada rollups….it would depend on what the occasion was…and time of day brunch.

7. How do you combat negative thinking? I sing, I listen to music, I take pictures, I exercise.

8. Insert your own random thought here. Tomorrow, January 26^th is my 9^th wedding anniversary. The traditional gift for a 9^th wedding anniversary is pottery or willow. The modern gift is leather. What would be a good gift for me to give Frank tomorrow?????

The Story of the Statue

2012-01-24T07:09:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, in Small Town, AL, not too far from where I live, there was this house. The house was very run-down and the neighbors (see pretty brick house next door in picture) complained to the owner. The owner chose not to do anything about fixing up the pitiful house. A year went by with the neighbors complaining to the owner and still nothing was done. Finally, the neighbors all got together and complained to the city counsel about the house and the owners apathy. Their property values were decreasing and they demanded that something be done.....and so it was. The city officials cited the owner and told him he had 30 days to paint the house....and paint his house he did. The owner was a shyster and he followed the letter of the law and painted his house. What the neighbors did not realize was that....paint was all he had to do. It was near Easter so he painted the house a pale pink and then painted a sky with clouds on the front gable of the house, he painted grass at the base with a tree....several bunnies, and some Easter eggs. The neighbors were livid and immediately called the city officials and complained.....but much to their distress....there was nothing they could do.....the owner had followed the ruling....and painted the house. After that....the neighbors complained....and the owner changed the house seasonally. In the fall the tree had fall leaves on it.....and at Halloween....there were Halloween pictures painted on it. During the 4th of July there was a huge America flag and that is when the Statue of Libery was added to the front porch. This vindictiveness went on for years....and it fascinated me. I would drive out of my way just to see what the house looked like. I could kick myself for never having photographed it. The owner is long since passed away and whoever lives in the house....has placed the statue in the yard. The house is painted a pale shade of something....and is once again in a sad state of disrepair. I don't know who I feel sorrier for....the house....or the neighbors. I love old houses and hate to see them sit and just die. Do you have a weird tale like mine about where you live that you would love to share with me???? I would love to hear it. Happy Tuesday!

The Shadow of Your Smile

2012-01-23T06:44:00.000-08:00

About the book: A beautiful blanket of snow may cover the quaint town of Deep Haven each winter, but it can’t quite hide the wreckage of Noelle and Eli Hueston’s marriage. After twenty-five years, they’re contemplating divorce . . . just as soon as their youngest son graduates from high school. But then an accident erases part of Noelle's memory. Though her other injuries are minor, she doesn’t remember Eli, their children, or the tragedy that has ripped their family apart. What’s more, Noelle is shocked that her life has turned out nothing like she dreamed it would. As she tries to regain her memory and slowly steps into her role as a wife and mother, Eli helps her readjust to daily life with sometimes-hilarious, sometimes-heartwarming results. But can she fall in love again with a man she can’t remember? Will their secrets destroy them . . . or has erasing the past given them a chance for a future? Read the story behind the story here: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/books/the-shadow-of-your-smile. About the Author: Susan May Warren is an award-winning, best-selling author of over twenty-five novels, many of which have won the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, the ACFW Book of the Year award, the Rita Award, and have been Christy finalists. After serving as a missionary for eight years in Russia, Susan returned home to a small town on Minnesota’s beautiful Lake Superior shore where she, her four children, and her husband are active in their local church. Susan's larger than life characters and layered plots have won her acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. A seasoned women’s events and retreats speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice. Susan makes her home in northern Minnesota, where she is busy cheering on her two sons in football, and her daughter in local theater productions (and desperately missing her college-age son!) A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at: http://www.susanmaywarren.com. Think you might want to buy the book? Then click here and you will go directly to Amazon.
Blog Tour, Party, and Giveaway Info: Sometimes love requires a little forgetting ... Come back to Deep Haven and find out what's been happening in your favorite quaint hamlet. If you're new to the Deep Haven series - this is the perfect book to start with - each book in the series is a stand alone story. Susan is celebrating the release of The Shadow of Your Smile by giving away a prize pack worth over $200 from 1/9-1/28.
One grand prize winner will receive:A $200 Visa Gift Card (Use that to rekindle a little romance, treat yourself to a spa day, snap up those shoes you’ve been eyeing, or purchase a few great books!)
The entire set of Deep Haven Books
The winner will be announced on 1/30/12 on Susan’s blog, Scribbles! Just click one of the icons below to enter and tell your friends about Susan's giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
Blog Tour Schedule: If you want to read the reviews then click here.
My Thoughts on the Book: Wow! I have not read anything by Susan May Warren before but I will definitely read her again. This is an author who creates books worth reflecting on.
This book is one of those that you need to sit on and think on awhile. This is an author who can spin quite a masterpiece. That is exactly what this bookis, a masterful work of art. I was hooked from the beginning and would have done anything to read this wonderful story.
Disclaimer: I was not paid to review this book and the opinions I gave are 100% my own

Project 365 - Week 3

2012-01-21T19:57:00.000-08:00

My week was much better this week but still not quite on target. I have had hives all week....not fun. Seems like I have started out 1012 on the fast track and just trying to hold on until Spring Break.....in March! This is week 3 of Project 365 and I have been busy snapping pictures of random things.....random....but very much part of my day. Want to see what everyone else is shooting? Head over to Sara's blog and check out the amazing pictures of everyone else....join in if you are a camera nut like we all are.

Sunday, January 15th

Frank has been very busy with his scroll saw work. He has discovered the medium of stain and they are more gorgeous than ever. I can't wait to show you the one he did of his grandmother. It is amazing.

Monday, January 16th

Monday, Frank and I went to the Mill Store outlet on our way to Auburn and bought a gorgeous new bedspread. When I get my room fixed like I want it I will post pictures. The house where the statue sits is in LaFayette. It has a funny story that goes with it....but that is a complete post for another day. For today you just get to enjoy Miss Liberty.

Tuesday, January 17

I have not done a church sign in a while and this one caught my eye when I was heading home from work.

Wednesday, January 18th

Central Alabama Community College in Alex City. The top picture is the newest part. It is the Betty Carol Graham Center. The bottom half is what it has looked like for the past 30 years. Back in my day it was called Alex City Junior College, or ACJC. It is a small campus....but a good many of our kids go there.

Thursday, January 19th

I love Mr. Rogers. At the bowling alley where we bowl on Thursday night I noticed this billboard. It makes me want to sing the introduction song to Mr. Rogers Neighborhood.

Friday, January 20th

Frank and I were back in Auburn tonight to pick up the tower of my computer from Office Depot. We ate dinner at Moe's and after dinner I suggested that we go to Gigi's and get a cupcake to split. You have to split them cause they are so very rich and expensive. I paid 3.50 for this Strawberry Shortcake one. I have to say it was worth every single penny. It was yummy!

Saturday, January 21st

Sunrise this morning was quick....and then we went under a tornado warning until 7 p.m. It rained like rip and then it cleared up nicely. I was so glad to get out and I know the horses in the back pasture came closer to the house so I could get a shot of them. We went to the auction tonight and it was a really good day all in all. First day with no hives....and no Benedryl. YEAH!!!!! Have a great week!

Friday Football Funny

2012-01-20T08:07:00.000-08:00

I am not a football fan.....but my husband loves it. I am glad we have two televisions in our house from September to January. It bothers me that so many people attend games....and then don't come to church on Sunday. It also bothers me that many people attend concerts and don't go to church. This morning Frank shared with me an email that one of our congregation members sent to him and I had to laugh....Not only do I know people that some of these really apply too....I AM ONE OF THEM!!!!! I hope you will read this and laugh out loud....who knows....you may find yourself described in a few of them too.....I would love not to be alone here! HAPPY FRIDAY!

Christian Football

Quarterback Sneak - Church members quietly leaving during the invitation. ( I can't do this one...I sit on the front row).
Draw Play - What many children do with the bulletin during worship. (I have been known to make notes, write poems, write songs, make grocery lists, pack suitcases on paper.)
Half-time - The period between Sunday School and worship when many choose to leave. (I am the preacher's wife....i can't do this....besides...I would miss the music.)
Bench warmer - Those who do not sing, pray, work, or apparently do anything but sit. (Not Guilty here....I teach Sunday School, teach the youth, sing, pray....I love church....Sunday is my favorite day!)

Backfield-in-Motion - Making a trip to the back (restroom or water fountain) during the service. (Not easily done....to get to our bathroom or water fountain you have to walk to the front of the church.)
Staying in the Pocket - What happens to a lot of money that should be given to the Lord's work.
Two-minute Warning - The point at which you realize the sermon is almost over and begin to gather up your children and belongings. ( I don't have children....but when I feel Frank is winding down I too begin to put my stuff in my bag.)
Instant Replay - The preacher loses his notes and falls back on last week's illustrations. (Frank has done some funny things......but this is not one of them.)
Sudden Death - What happens to the attention span of the congregation if the preacher goes "overtime." (This is not one we seem to have a problem with....I think they would stay the extra time....once in a while....but let's not make it a habit.)
Trap - You're called on to pray and are asleep. (We have sleepers...I am not one them....this is when I write on the bulletin.....Frank never calls on anyone without previous warning.....so this is not an issue at our church.)
End Run - Getting out of church quick, without speaking to any guest or fellow member. (Again, I sit at the front of the church....and this would be quite a feat if I could accomplish this.....but I am Mrs. Social Butterfly....I love the visiting/hugging.)
Flex Defense - The ability to allow absolutely nothing said during the sermon to affect your life. (I think I have tried this a time or two....only to have the next week's sermon be directed at me personally. I hate it when I feel like Frank is pointing his finger in my face.)
Halfback Option - The decision of 50% of the congregation not to return for the evening service. (Most of the churches in our area just quit trying....and that is sad.) We still have bible study and choir practice....but attendance is really weak.
Blitz - The rush for the restaurants following the closing prayer. (Hey....there are only three restaurants in Roanoke....and nine thousand churches....it is each man for himself!)

Happy Birthday E.A. Poe

2012-01-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

When I was much younger, one of my favorite authors was Edgar Allen Poe (the Shakespeare of America). I would read and reread the likes of "The Fall of the House of Usher,", "The Raven," "Tell-Tale Heart." I would read for hours after I was supposed to be in bed asleep by a flashlight which I kept hidden under between my mattress and box springs. I could not read enough. I know for you the name Poe brings to mind images of murderers and madmen, premature burials, and mysterious women who return from the dead. His works have been in print since 1827 and here I was in the 60's and 70's devouring ever single word on the pages that unfolded before me. The three stories I mentioned were three of my all time favorites, barring none. But that is not all he wrote. His writings include short stories, poetry, a novel, a textbook, a book of scientific theory, and hundreds of essays and book reviews. He is widely acknowledged as the inventor of the modern detective story and an innovator in the science fiction genre, but did you know that he actually made his living as America’s first great literary critic and theoretician. Poe’s reputation today rests primarily on his tales of terror as well as on his haunting lyric poetry. Like most writers of his kind, Poe is seen as a morbid, mysterious figure lurking in the shadows of moonlit cemeteries or crumbling castles. This is the Poe of legend. But much of what we know about Poe is wrong, the product of a biography written by one of his enemies in an attempt to defame the author’s name. By the age of thirteen, Poe had compiled enough poetry to publish a book, but his headmaster advised Allan against allowing this. In 1826 Poe left Richmond to attend the University of Virginia, where he excelled in his classes while accumulating considerable debt. The miserly Allan had sent Poe to college with less than a third of the money he needed, and Poe soon took up gambling to raise money to pay his expenses. Humiliated by his poverty and furious with Allan for not providing enough funds in the first place, Poe returned to Richmond and visited the home of his fiancée Elmira Royster, only to discover that she had become engaged to another man in Poe’s absence. The heartbroken Poe’s last few months in the Allan mansion were punctuated with increasing hostility towards Allan until Poe finally stormed out of the home in a quixotic quest to become a great poet and to find adventure. He accomplished the first objective by publishing his first book Tamerlane when he was only eighteen, and to achieve the second goal he enlisted in the United States Army. briefly reconciled, and Allan helped Poe gain an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. At the age of twenty-seven, Poe brought Maria and Virginia Clemm to Richmond and married his Virginia, who was not yet fourteen. The marriage proved a happy one, and the family is said to have enjoyed singing together at night. Virginia expressed her devotion to her husband in a Valentine poem now in the collection of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, and Poe celebrated the joys of married life in his poem “Eulalie.” In the face of poverty Poe was still able to find solace at home with his wife and mother-in-law, but tragedy struck in 1842 when Poe’s wife contracted tuberculosis, the disease that had already claimed Poe’s mother, brother, and foster mother. The January 1845 publication of “The Raven” made Poe a household name. He was now famous enough to draw large crowds to his lectures, and he was beginning to demand better pay for his work. He published two books that year, and briefly lived his dream of running his own magazine when he bought out the owners of the Broadway Journal. The failure of the venture, his wife’s deteriorating health, and rumors spreading about Poe’s relationship with a married woman, drove him out of the city in 1846. At this time he moved to a tiny cottage in the country. It was there, in the winter of 1847 that Virginia died at the age of twenty-four. Poe was devastated, and was unable to write for months. His critics assumed he would soon be dead. They were right. Poe only lived another two years and spent much of that time traveling from one city to the next giving lectures and finding backers for his latest proposed magazine project to be called The Stylus. Poe spent the last days of his life in Washington College Hospital, far from his home and surrounded by strangers. Poe died on October 7, 1849 at the age of forty. The exact cause of Poe’s death remains a mystery to this day. January 19th, 1809 so Happy Birthday E.A. Poe and thank you for many joyous hours of indulging in the art of reading, dreaming, and imagining. Want to learn more about Poe? Click here and visit the musuem site in Richmond, Virginia.

Hodgepodge Week 62

2012-01-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

Well this is Wednesday again and time for another one of Joyce's Hodgepodge events. It is fun to play along and if you have never participated it is ok....anyone can join in at any time. Just copy and answer the questions on your blog, then jump over to Joyce's blog and post along with everyone else. The answers can be very thought provoking and hilarious. Hope you will join in.

1. A new Miss America was crowned on Saturday night-did you watch? If you were a contestant what would your talent be?
I don't watch Miss America because I don't like the concept of what it is about. If...and mind you that is a big IF I were to be a contestant I would sing. My song would be "You Raise Me Up."

2. Do you have houseplants? Real or fake?

I do have houseplants, real ones, which challenge me on a weekly basis. You see, I have a black thumb. I have had green thumb gardeners give me plants that die overnight. I also have fake plants because I love the green concept.

3. When you were in school did you speak up or were you more of the hide your face, avoid eye contact, and pray the teacher didn't call on you type of student?

I loved elementary school. I was a shining student there....but once I went to Junior High....I will be truthful and say I hated school, I did all my homework, I made decent grades, I hated taking tests and, hated to be called on in class....even if I knew the answer to something. I was the wall-flower kid who did not want any attention drawn on me. I am living proof that God has a sense of humor. I hated school so much and swore that if I ever escaped I would never return....and what do I do for a living? I teach high school.

4. Next Monday marks the Chinese New Year....what do you order when someone suggests Chinese food?

My favorite is swwet and sour chicken. I love the fried rice and egg rolls.

5. How would you define a miracle? What would it take for you to consider something a miracle?

A miracle is something that is an extraordinary occurrence that could only have happened thru God's supernatural power. The stars in the sky, the ocean, the birth of a baby, and the incredible way the human body works are a few things that never cease to feel miraculous. I have also seen a person diagnosed with stage 4 cancer be completely ruled cancer free....now that is a miracle...and that is something God had a major hand in.

6. What's your favorite Disney song? If you're stuck you'll find a list here.

From Mary Poppins, "A Few of My Favorite Things." Actually it would be any song from Mary Poppins.

7. I should have __________yesterday.

Stayed in bed. I had a Murphy's Law day. I fell yesterday morning in the bathroom....hit my head and broke the comode. I then had a day of hives and could barely stand not to scratch my entire body with a wire brush. We also started a new semester yesterday and if it could go wrong it did. Yep, I definitely should have stayed in bed yesterday.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Did you know that today is Winnie the Pooh Day? It is supposed to be an opportunity to enjoy your favorite bear and all of his friends. This day was created to celebrate the birth of A.A .Milne in 1882. He was an author of children's story books, and created Winnie the Pooh and his friends. Winnie's pals include Christopher Robin, Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet, and Roo. Who is your favorite Winnie the Poo character and why? I used to work with a girl we refered to as Eeyore...because she was so gloomy and seemed to suck the happiness out of the room whenever she entered. I love all the characters.

Daily Gifts of Grace

2012-01-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

About the Book: Daily Gifts of Grace, Devotions For Each Day of Your Year, is written by some of my favorite authors (Luci Swindoll, Marilyn Meberg, Patsy Clairmont, Joni Eareckson Tada, Sandi Patty, Lisa Whelchel, and Sheila Walsh, who all just so happen to be part of the Women of Faith team. Each page long devotion is honest, personal and good reads. I could hardly wait to see what the next vignette was going to be. January 7^th is called “Fresh from the Fall.” The scripture is from Job 4:4 “Your words have upheld him who was stumbling, and you have strengthened the feeble knees.” The story is by Natalie Grant and is about a time when she fell off the stage during a performance. Each story is followed by a personal prayer.

My Thoughts: I recommend this for those who want something to start their day with or those who might be looking for a brief interruption during a stressful day. It's perfect to keep in a purse or car to read while waiting. It would be great for a quick glance during a coffee break. Each story begins with a scripture and the scripture is not necessarily about the story. My book was an e-book and so easy to pull up in many situations. I personally enjoyed the inconsistent flow from one reader to the next. It amazed me how each day there always seemed to be a nugget of truth just for me. I will definitely give this book as a gift and recommend it to my friends. It is a sweet read.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in ebook format from Thomas Nelson Publishing Company in exchange for my review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own and may differ from others.

Not By Might

2012-01-16T04:43:00.000-08:00

About the Book: Set in the Old West, this was the eighth of a series on Christian Western, romance, suspense (loose description) rolled into one. Although Nurse Breanna Brockman and her husband, John, the US Marshall, are the main characters in this series, nurse Natalie Fallon and Dr. Rex Rawlins are sub characters. In this episode, John's death is plotted by a gang of outlaws while his wife Breanna is acclimating Natalie Fallon, the new nurse in the hospital who is still grieving the loss of her true love. Breanna travels to half a day to a mining town to assist a rural doctor, Dr. Rex Rawlins, with one of his special needs patients. While there, Breanna, witnesses to a miner and his wife. All of these threads begin to intersect as the story reaches its climax.

My Thoughts: I have to admit that the Old West I have read about from other writers and this Old West were two different places. The characters in the story were so sickeningly sweet, that the book was hard to read. The characters who were Christians constantly preached at everyone they met and everything always worked out for the Christians in the story as soon as they prayed. I love stories of hope as much as the next reader, but I really don't like stories that are so completely unrealistic. The only positive thing I can think of, is to say that if you are a big Christian-Western fan, you may enjoy the whole Old West scene enough to make this story worthwhile. This book for me was a painful read that I could not wait for it to end. Had I not been reviewing this book I would have put it down and counted my losses. Syrupy sweet, condescendingly preachy, totally unbelievable and I doubt seriously if I read another of the Angel of Mercy series.

I received a free e-copy download of this book from the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for review purposes. All opinions expressed are always entirely my own.

2012 Project 365 - Week 2

2012-01-15T05:11:00.000-08:00

It is Week 2 of Project 365 2012 edition. This week was not one of my best. I was involved in two funerals and so my pictures were not very creative. They were what they were. Project 365 is such fun and if you would like to join in with us.....or just look at some amazing pictures....click here and hop over to Sara's blog. I promise you that you won't regret it. Ok...so this was my week....or what I could get of it.

Sunday, January 8th

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is the creche. I love putting it up....and am sad when it comes time to take it down. Today was my day for de-Christmasing my house and the creche had to be taken apart. I took one more picture just so I could remember it a bit longer. Frank began giving me the Willow Creek manger scene several years ago. I just love those Willow Creek Angels.

Monday, January 9th

Frank's newest additions to his scroll saw work. This is the mascot for my school where I teach. I think they are lovely. We also planned to watch the BCS game....the pictures you see above are as far as I got into the game. Just as kickoff occurred I got a call that my first cousin had passed away and spent the rest of the game in shock and on the phone letting the rest of my family know.

Tuesday, January 10th

Kat and Brian gave me a professionally done photo (actually photos) for Christmas. After taking down the creche on Sunday I filled the blank spot with this picture and I love it. Savannah Bowden did them and she does amazing work.

Wednesday, January 11th

Still plugging holes left by removed Christmas decorations. This was a chair caning class my mom took. One of the ladies in the class made one of these for everyone. My mom is the one in lavendar. I have had this in a hat box and thought, "why not....what good is it doing in a hat box anyway."

Thursday, January 12th

Frank surprised me with this one. I love the firefighter symbol.

Friday, January 13th

I have a new project, a Christmas present from Mrs. Shirley and Mr. Denney and since today was one filled with a funeral in Ashland, AL and a viewing in Roanoke I took it out of the box and began picture gathering so I could display it. The picture of Kat and Brian is another one of Savannah Bowden's. It was also part of my gift from them. I can't wait to get this done. It is going to be beautiful!

Saturday, January 14th

Frank and I went to the auction tonight and Beau, our doxie, lucked out. We bought this expensive bag of dog food, some moist and meaty dog food, and three bags of Beggin Strips for him for less that this bag of dog food costs at the store. I also bought 70 pony bottles of water (2 flats of 35) for 5.00, some wall plaques, had a lamp given to me, and some cute little wood things, and a hat flash light. I love a bargain. Tuesday night we are going to another auction in Standing Rock at Mr. Joel's place. He is auctioning off vintage toys....some circa WWI. I want to go just to see the stuff. I have really become addicted to these things. Have fun this week and don't forget to keep your camera nearby. You never know when you might get the perfect picture.

Memories of Mrs. Faye

2012-01-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

I think in all of our lives we have someone who gives us wonderful life stories. I have many of them.....remember I have 96 first cousins....so that is a lot of story potential. This week has been a tough one for me. My first cousin Cindy died on Monday night unexpectedly and then one of our congregation passed away Thursday morning. She was one of those special people you write stories about. So my week was filled with funeral homes and gravesites. Thursday night was Cindy's visitation, Friday at 2 was her funeral....near Ashland, AL....which I left and went straight to Mrs. Fayes visitation in Roanoke.....At the funeral today (Frank's first) my darling husband told some tales that the family had shared at their home...all of them I have been here and experienced. My favorite....well ok...one of my favorites was one Sunday, during prayer request time, she stood and told of a person who needed prayer.....and spent a good bit of time explaining why this person needed prayer. When Frank went to do the prayer....Mrs. Faye leaned forward and told Meagan that she had asked for prayer for the wrong person....and then said..."Oh well, they can use prayer too." Mrs. Faye was one of those people who cared for everyone. She was precious. The other story took place at Thanksgiving this year. J's boyfriend had to leave the dinner early because his aunt had died and he was going to the visitation at the local funeral home. As he was saying goodbye to everyone Mrs. Faye asked him where he was going and he told her "to the funeral home to see my aunt." She then asked why she was there. The whole room was silent....and we were all trying to keep from laughing out loud. J's boyfriend responded sweetly, "she's dead." Mrs. Faye never missed a beat and never realized what had just occurred until several minutes after the young man had left. We all laughed....even her. She was something else. Mrs. Faye did for everyone. She shared herself with everyone. She loved people and they loved her. Mrs. Faye had many names....grandson, Chris, named her Dammy (We don't know why....it may have been because Grammy was hard to say.)....and grandson Todd called her Whoop. We asked him if it was because she had spanked him before and he said he could only remember a couple of times she spanked him. Wherever the nicknames came from....and for whatever reasons.....she was lovingly called both by everyone who knew her. She and her husband Yater were instrumental in founding the Rock Mills Volunteer Fire Department. She was active in the community and her church. She never missed a Sunday at church unless she was sick. Wednesday night when we got the call that the family was taking her to EAMC because she was having a heart attack....we did not even bat and eye....jumped in the car and headed to Opelika. We got there around 11:00, Frank annointed her and had prayer, we talked and she seemed to be settling down. We left a little after midnight and about 15 minutes down the road we got the first call saying they were taking her in to do the balloon test on her heart. We got home around 1:00 am and they called again to say the doctor was there....she had crashed and they were working on her. At 2 am we got the call saying Mrs. Faye had gone to be with Jesus. Her presence will be sorely missed. Many people relied on this spry 80 year old. Her passing has left a huge hole in the lives of her family, friends, church. Thursday morning when Mrs. Faye left her earthly body and went to her heavenly home I know the angels were rejoicing because she had come home. Now those of us left behind need to follow her earthly example of what a Christian should be so we can see her again someday. RIP Mrs. Faye.

This Little Light Of Mine

2012-01-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

I was asked on New Years Eve, “Have you have already taken down your Christmas lights?” (This was 6 days after Christmas Day….and I had only gotten my tree up a week before Christmas!) When my response was “no!” I was then asked….“Well, when are you planning TO take down your decorations NEXT week? I thought a minute and thought about Epiphany….and told them, “no….I will take mine down after Epiphany.” They proceeded to tell me a story of someone they knew who kept their tree up all year round. I personally think that is a great idea. I wish I had a Christmas tree room that I could just close off after Christmas….and leave my tree up…..that way when I am feeling not so Christmasy in my actions….I could go into that room and experience the day all over again. I LOVE this idea!!!! Normally I am a Christmas fanatic….this year….not so much. Once I put my tree up….I thought….you know….this gives me one of the greatest pleasures in the world…..so why can’t I experience it all year long. Is there some kind of Christmas tree Nazi out there who is going to report me to the Republican party???? I have to tell you all that there is something magical to me about Christmas lights. Those sparkly little lights to me symbolize brightness, love….everything Christmas is about. Christmas lights create such a warm ambiance to me. I love them. Christmas lights remind me of something Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16. God used lights for more than just holidays. When I stand outside at night and gaze at the moon and the stars….I feel special. I love the kids song, “This Little Light of Mine.” It reminds me that I have a light that I am to carry into the world and share with others. My efforts sometimes are puny….and sometimes I feel insignificant….I mean come on….I am just one light bulb…..and then I remember that I am plugged into a mighty power line….His name is Jesus and my ability to share His light hinges on my holding HIS light inside of us. The light that makes us valuable to God comes from Him – not ourselves. I have this light for a specific purpose….and need to be quiet and listen to the whisper when He tells me to let it shine! Matthew 5:14-16 says, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. So I stop and ask myself…..exactly what’s the purpose of my little puny light? I know! I know! It is to help others see God….and glorify Him! Being the Light of the World comes by my shining Jesus’ light (not my own) and my purpose in shining that light was so that God would get the glory. But this shining of light is so important to Jesus that He gave us an example of someone who did just that. Jesus said: “John (the Baptist) was a lamp that burned and gave light....”in John 5:35…get it? John the Baptist was a light of the world!! And because John was a light of the world - Jesus was impressed. Jesus was SO impressed that He lifted him up as an example to us. But, what had John done that so impressed Jesus? John the Baptist stood up for righteousness and you can’t stand for Jesus if you’re not going to stand up for righteousness. When the people came to him to be baptized John didn’t just take them down to the river. He drove home the fact that they needed to change their lives. He called them to live righteous lives. And he was so righteous that even his enemies couldn’t find anything to accuse him of. Can I say that about myself??? I am not so sure. For John, the most important person was Jesus and thus John served his ministry for God by standing up tall for HIM. Do I do this???? There is a Country and Western song on the radio that says, “you’ve got to stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything.” You know that song could be the lyrics to a country song….because if you don’t stand up FOR HIM….you can’t be the light of Christ! You can’t be a light of the World….if you are not willing to stand tall for Him! It doesn’t matter how many times you have been to church….how many attendance medals you have for Sunday School….or how much you give to the church….what matters is that people know that Jesus is the most important thing in your life….because your light shines for Him! When Jesus said “you are the light of the world” He wasn’t calling for holiday lights. He wasn’t calling for CEO’s (Christmas/Easter Only - you know…the ones who show up periodically). He was telling us He wanted us as lights that would shine all year round. Are you shining?....or is your light hidden under a bush?
In the words of the Chris Rice song, "Go Light the World!"

Wednesday Hodge Podge- Volume 61

2012-01-11T06:18:00.000-08:00

It is Wednesday and that means it is another great day for Hodge Podge. My blogger buddy, Joyce, over at "From This Side of the Pond" is our gracious host and comes up with great questions each week. Want to join in? It is a great way to get to know random things....and not so random things about the people you blog with. Click here and go check out Joyce's site. You won't regret it. I promise you!

Here are my answers to the questions for this week:

1. Lake Superior University has once again published a list of words/phrases they think should be banished from the Queen's English in 2012- amazing, baby bump, shared sacrifice, occupy, blowback, man cave, the new normal, pet parent, win the future, trickeration, ginormous, and thank you in advance. Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why? Go here to read more about how the words are chosen. I would have to say that our language is continually evolving and new words are being added to our vocabulary lists daily...and I am a word freak. I love anything that has to do with words....but, with that said...trickeration, ginormous, and blowback are three I think we can do without. Why? There are better words to describe what they describe.

2. Are you easily embarrassed? Yes, even though I try and fake it and act like I am not embarrassed my face gives me away with this warm, rosy sheen.

3. What is your go-to snack? Pretzels are my favorite run of the mill go to snacks. When chocolate is in the mix I love plain M&M's.

4. Have you ever been to Washington D.C.? If not do you have any desire to go? What site/attraction would you most want to see in that city? If you have been, what's your favorite site/attraction? I have been to Washington D.C. many times. I love the Vietnam Veterans Wall, the Korean War monument, the Holocaust Museum, the Smithsonian. I hope to get a chance to go back this summer.

5. Sit ups-planks-lunges-squats...which do you hate the least? Lunges, because they are the most like simple walking.

6. What's a small act of kindness you were shown that you've never forgotten? One of my way former students bought mine and Frank's lunch at Pizza Hut without letting us know. I had not seen him in over 20 years. It was fun to catch up and his gesture made my day. It was a time when I needed to know I make a difference in the lives of children.

7. Have you ever been a blood donor? Yes, I was a multi gallon donor at one time...but anemia ended my giving.

8. Insert your own random thought here. Ok...my profound random thought for today is a verse from the Bible that is one of my power verses from Psalm 118:5-6 and I thought I would share it with you today. “In tight circumstances, I cried out to the LORD. The LORD answered me with wide-open spaces. The LORD is for me—I won’t be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” Can I get an AMEN!

It's So Hard To Say Goodbye....

2012-01-10T06:11:00.000-08:00

Last night at approximately 7:30....just as the BCS Championship game began, my cousin Cindy went to be with Jesus. I made it 9 days without a death in my family in 2012. Cindy was very special to me. She was born when I was 7 and she was like a living doll baby to me. I loved dressing her up in different clothes and pretending she was mine. We have been not just cousins....but friends for many, many years. It is one thing to love your family....you kind of have to do that....but it is a joy when you actually like them. I liked/loved Cindy....and her husband, Johnny, and her son Quinn. Cindy had a kidney transplant in 2009. As a matter of fact she was notified that she had two hours to get to UAB hospital the day we buried my father. I always liked to think that my dad had a hand in that. Today...there is one very sad family in Hackneyville, AL. Johnny, Quinn (his wife Angela), and granddaughter Braylei (who they were raising as their own.....by daughter Rachel) have a huge hole in their lives. Cindy walked softly through life....but believe me she made a huge impact on the lives she touched. There are a lot of people at Liberty Church, in the Hackneyville area, and in my family that are missing her right now and heaven is rejoicing to have another angel home. It makes me feel kind of comforted to know she is watching over us all. You will be missed my friend and even though it is hard to say goodbye....I know we will be together again on day. Until then....¡Vaya con Dios!

Tagged!

2012-01-10T06:02:00.000-08:00

Mary tagged me this morning and since this is 2012 and I knew year I figured that this this would be a fun way to get acquainted, so I hope if I tagged you, you will play along.
Post these rules. 
You must post 11 random things yourself.
Answer the ques­tions the tag­ger set for you in their post.
Cre­ate 11 new ques­tions for the peo­ple you tag to answer.
Go to their blog and tell them that you've tagged them.
No stuff in the tag­ging sec­tion about ‘you are tagged if you are read­ing this.’ Blah blah blah, you legit­i­mately have to tag 11 peeps!
And the questions forMary's 11 tag-ees are at the bottom of the post:

My 11 Random Things:
1. I .am addicted to auctions.
2. I'm hooked on Hanging with Friends and Words with Friends.
3. I love to watch Storage Wars and Pawn Stars on television.
4. I have love to clean to classical music.
5. I sang in our church youth choir, New Dawn.
6. I never joined a sorority when I was in college.
7. I love a good sandwich on pumpernickel or rye bread.
8. I love dill pickles.
9. I have non-diagnosed - ADD (OS) - Attention Deficit Disorder (Oh Shiny!)
10. I have sung for two sitting presidents (Kennedy, Nixon)
11. I was a three day returning champion on the TV show Top Card!

Here are my responses to Mary's 11 questions:
1. Who is your favorite singer/music group?
Come on...you all know I have hundreds of favorite songs so that means equally the same number of favorite singers. My all time favorite is Still Magnolias....think I am prejudiced or what?
2. Do you have a favorite game to play on the computer/tablet/iPad/iPod? If so, what is it?
Easy...Words with Friends and Hanging with Friends...I am all about some word games.
3. What is your favorite movie?
Another easy one....Still Magnolias
4. How long did you know your spouse when you got married? If you're not married, what is the longest you have seen someone?
4 years.
5. Were you involved in music in high school/college?
I sang in the chorus at school and in the church youth choir, New Dawn.
6. What special group were you involved in during high school/college?
None. I was a non-conformist and non-joiner back in the day. I went to school. I went to church....period.
7. When you're all alone, what do you like to eat for dinner?
Oatmeal or a sandwich
8. Left or right handed?
Right handed
9. How tall are you?
5'5" with the heart of a 6 footer
10. What is your favorite pair of shoes?
My BASS Weejuns
11. How long have you lived in your house/apartment/condo?
Hummm...I am a pastors wife and we live in parsonages....so far this time....two years

And my lucky 11 people are:
Be Still and Know
Bugs Eye View
Jeannie's Happy World
Jerralea's Journey
Just Breathe
Marty's Musings
My Little Life
Random Thoughts
Screaming Mimi
Ladner's Latest
Zambeste

And your questions are:
1. What is one item on your bucket list?
2. Where did you spend your most favorite vacation?
3. How many are in your family?
4. What is your least favorite chore to do?
5. What is the best thing you cook?
6. What is your favorite restaurant?
7. When you were younger what was your dream job and are you doing it now?
8. Do you play a musical instrument, and if so what is it?
9. Where did you meet your best friend?
10. What is your favorite television show?
11.Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Thanks for playing. I hope you enjoy doing this as much as I did. Have a wonderful Tuesday and if you are traveling home from the BCS National Championship keep it between the ditches.

Just As I Am

2012-01-09T06:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday our closing hymn was one of my old favorites, "Just As I Am." I stood in my seat and sang the song and all of a sudden I had this urge to burst out in laughter. I was reminded of a story that involved my father, me, and "Just As I Am." When I was active in the youth group of First United Methodist in West Palm Beach we sat on the right left side of the santuary every Sunday. If you were a visitor to our church you would have never found a visitors card or offering envelope because I wrote poetry on them each Sunday and my friends wrote notes to each other on them. Some of my most profound preteen love poems were scribbled during a sermon on one of those cards. One particular Sunday the youth were cutting up a bit in the front....giggling, writing lots of notes....and I was one of the culprits. Sometime during our reverie I could feel someone looking at me from behind. I knew it had to be one of my parents....so I chose not to look back. The intenseness of the gaze continued and finally I turned....to see my father glowering at me with one of his bushy eyebrows raised....and the finger (my dad lost the tip end of his finger in a bridge accident when I was young). A sick dread came over me because I knew what was going to happen to me after church. I quickly straightened up my church act....and when the invitation came around I hurried to the altar and fell on my knees asking for forgiveness and grace. I prayed through all six verses of "Just As I Am." My father told me in the car that he was not going to do anything to me....because he felt like God and I had already hashed everything out. He was right....and I never misbehaved in church again. To this day whenever I sing, or hear the song....I smile and can still see my dad....pointing that finger at me....with that caterpillar eyebrow raised. So, today I want to share the song with you. Click here to listen to it, close your eyes, and imagine a white haired man....pointing his finger at you.....and raising his eyebrow....and I hope you smile. I always do. Happy Monday!

Project 365 - Week 1

2012-01-08T05:07:00.000-08:00

Good morning and welcome to the first official week of Project 365 - 2012 edition. I know that you wanted to hook up with us last year so this year you can have a fresh start. It is really fun to photo journal your year by taking a picture (or in my case several pictures) each day. There are quite a few who participate and if you would like to see what kind of pictures they have to offer hop over to Sara's blog and check them out.

Sunday, January1st

School starts tomorrow so today I got my school bags out and began loading them up with all the things I would need on Monday. I also finished reading my book I got from Women of Faith. I have become addicted to books about the Amish and this one had three separate stories in it. Loved it!

Monday, January 2nd

I passed a house in Daviston on my way home today and saw this tree. There are no leaves and it has these orange ball looking fruits growing on it. I have no clue what they are and since this was in someone's yard did not stop and walk up closer. I am wondering if it is a persimmon tree. Any guesses out there?

Tuesday, January 3rd

Frank and I joined the Athletic Club this evening after I got home from work. We joined for a year and Frank will pick up our special key that lets us in after hours sometime tomorrow...and no, this is not a New Year's Resolution. I don't make them. I have a 40 year class reunion coming up in August.

Wednesday, January 4th

I collect unusual crosses and my friend, Carol sent me this one for Christmas. It has a nativity at the base, but it is so lovely I am thinking of leaving it up all year long. What do you think?

Thursday, January 5th

It was cold this morning and they have been working on the bridge at Hillabee Creek since we moved to Rock Mills. This morning there was a flagman holding traffic while they moved big equipment from one side of the bridge to the other. It looks as if we are getting close to finishing this job. I loved watching the men try to keep warm with the barrel fire. It was blistering cold.....that is southernese for 32 or less.

Friday, January 6th

The house was my grandmother's house. It is amazing how it has shrunk. When I was a child I thought that house was huge....and today it just didn't make the huge list. The bottom picture is the back side of my high school. I realized I had not ever posted a picture of where I work. I will try and get a front shot this coming week. We will see.

Saturday, January 7th

I thought I would leave you with a beautiful Rock Mills sunset sky. Hope you have a wonderful week and I can't wait to see you next week and see what all you guys have shot. I love a camera. Don't you?

What to Do When Adult Children Disappoint You!

2012-01-07T14:50:00.000-08:00

What do you do when your children disappoint you? What do you do when something goes awry? Today tested my feelings on this. Frank and I went to do a little work at my mom's house. Remember my son, Eric moved into the back part of the house...rent free...on the day we buried my mom. He understood when he moved in that the house was trashed.....my mom was a hoarder....and he could have to back four rooms. No problem.....he moved all the work we had done....into the front three rooms and halls.....so I was back at square one. No problem....I was glad to help him out......and then I didn't even question him when he and his wife tried to make things work again (the umpteenth time)....and she moved up there with him....and their three kids. I was glad to help.....but.....and it is a big but....today when we went up there....it was obvious that someone has been plundering through my part of the house....and things were missing....mainly power tools....but they were mine. Frank was aggravated...and so was I. I texted Eric and asked him where they were....he called me....I called him back....and he said he did not know...but would look into it. Now...this is where my dilemma occurs. Frank said if it were his house he would have told him to put everything back....and move. I on the other hand felt that by letting Eric know I realized they were missing....gave him the opportunity to put everything back....and if he doesn't....does it really matter to me? No! If he needed to sell them....then I hope he got a good amount of money for them. My problem is that he did not own up to this. I know for a fact the tools and box were there....and I know for a fact that they are now gone. So, help me out fellow blogger buddies.....what do you do when adult children do something like this? I came home and got my bible and found an oh so familiar story in the New Testament of something where a son and father had a parting of the ways..... 1 In this account, a man's younger son asks his father for his share of the estate, then sets off for another country. He squanders his entire inheritance in wild living and eventually ends up in a literal pigpen. Though the details may have changed, this is still a common story today. Let's look at a few things we can learn from the parable of the prodigal son. Now I will tell you.....Eric and his sister Jenifer were not mine by birth. When I married their father in 1976 I was 21 and they were 4 and 5. I raised them from that moment on. Kat joined the family in 1980. I could not have loved them anymore than I loved her. I used to tell them that they grew in my heart and Kat grew in it. When their dad and I separated in 1998 I lost them too. Eric was in his 30's.....and I was crushed. They still called from time to time (usually when they needed something)....and always said they loved me. The key word there is "said"...but it hurt....and I let it hurt me. Then one day one of my colleagues told me he had met my "ex-step daughter." The line was drawn at that moment. I was made painfully aware of what my place in their lives was. Years passed....I married Frank....and then....Eric needed me.....because he needed somewhere to live....and once again I came through. Today I found myself....angry and hurt. So I stopped and prayed as we drove to Wal-mart. When we went into Wal-mart I was no longer angry and hurt. I was sad....sad because the stuff was missing.....but in my heart I felt free from disappointment. Ok, so the stuff is gone. Right now....I feel, "hey! it was just stuff and there are no perfect people.(Lord knows I am not one). All people are responsible for their own actions.(I can't make him pay for what he has or has not done....and he isn't responsible for the choices I have made in my own life. I am the one who will have to stand before God with that one....on my own. I also realized that all people (even my kids) are capable of totally unreasonable actions. I truly believe that the door to my home/heart is never completely shut. I am as close as the end of the phone....I will never give up. I cannot negate the wrong choices made. I cannot reverse the damages.....but I will always love them. So today, when I called Eric and told him the stuff was missing a couple of things can happen. One...he can get them put back....and/or two...he knows I am aware of what is in there. There is actually a third. I am now driven to get the rest of the junk/stuff/antiques my mom has cleared out....and the house sold. It has been 8 months....and time to move on. Have a wonderful Saturday!

Happy Epiphany!

2012-01-06T07:12:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Christmas songs is "The Twelve Days of Christmas", but did you know that it is not the twelve days before Christmas...it is about the twelve days AFTER Christmas. Yep, the Twelve Days of Christmas are counted from December 25th until January 5th. Epiphany is the climax of the twelve days, falling on the thirteenth day after Christmas. It is an occasion for feasting in many cultures, with a special King’s cake often baked as part of the Epiphany festivities. Today, January 6, is the day of Epiphany. The term “epiphany” means “to show,” “to make known,” or “to reveal.” This holiday remembers the wise men, who brought gifts to the young Jesus, and by so doing, revealed Jesus as King to the world. Their story, and a much forgotten one, is told in Matthew 2:1-11:
"Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We have seen his star as it arose, and we have come to worship him.” Herod was deeply disturbed by their question, as was all of Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law. “Where did the prophets say the Messiah would be born?” he asked them.
“In Bethlehem,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote: `O Bethlehem of Judah, you are not just a lowly village in Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.’ “ "Then Herod sent a private message to the wise men, asking them to come see him. At this meeting he learned the exact time when they first saw the star. Then he told them, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” "After this interview the wise men went their way. Once again the star appeared to them, guiding them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house where the child and his mother, Mary, were, and they fell down before him and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (NLT)" What a cool story....I mean these men came to the King, bearing gifts of gold, frankensence and myrhh. These were very expensive gift. One of my favorite stories is "The Littlest Angel" and he too wants to take the new baby a gift...but all he has is this box full of his treasures from earth. I have thought all week about what kind of gift I would give. I realize it is not something I can get at Macy's or Walmart....it has to be a special gift. Then I thought about all the gifts and talents I have. God made me this way.... complete with these particular gifts and talents. These gifts help me to fulfill God’s good plans for my life. When I use them to bless others, I give my gift to God. So what kind of gifts do I have? What kind of gifts do you have? Are we using them as we should? I love the Gift of HOSPITALITY? I am not a baker...but I can cook. I love to cook things for the bereaved, a neighbor who is ill, or just because. I love to invite people into my house and share with them. As you all know I truly believe that I have the gift of TEACHING? I have taught bible studies, taught school, taught Sunday School, and spoken at conferences and churches. This is something I LOVE to do. I want everyone to know how God has blessed me and can bless them too. Another thing I love to do is GIVE and graciously? At Christmas we gathered gifts for some children in our community who would not have had Christmas otherwise. My tree was full of children's gifts....bicyles, games, dolls...it was awesome. Beth and I delivered them and that was even more fun....seeing the gleem in the eyes of the parents as we delivered the goodies. I love to give people things for no reason at all....I can them my just because gifts. Giving is so much fun. MERCY is a gift I struggle with. I love to visit shut-ins or people in the hospital or nursing homes. I love to go and sing for them. right now with the illness and death of my mom still fresh it is a hard one for me to do. Whatever you do....there is someone around who might possibly benefit from it. So as we celebrate this day, let’s consider how we can bring our gifts as an offering to our King. Happy Epiphany!

I Have Got To Tell You Something God....Are You Listening?

2012-01-05T12:35:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a funny day for me. When I started to work I noticed I had a missed phone call from my daughter, Kat, at 10:00 the night before. It worried me a bit because she knows I go to bed early...I tried to call her back.....but no answer. So on my Hwy 22 Daily Ride I said a quick prayer that everything was alright. At noon, one of our church members, who never calls me, called. I did not get the call and when I tried to call her back there was no response....so once again....I dropped my head and prayed for the unknown. On my way home I got Kat and she had an "Our God is AMAZING" story to tell me. It was one of those where you get cold chills. I finally got our church member too and she shared a health issue with me that was worrying her when she called. I have discovered...you don't have to drop to a knee, Teebow style....all you have to do is offer up a prayer.....my class never knew I prayed. The drivers I came into contact with on Hwy 22 never knew they were passing a car that was being fueled by prayer power. I have really learned in the past few years that prayer is not just a monologue where one person(me) does all the talking. That is what I thought it was for a long time. I believed it was a time for me to list all my wants and needs before the Lord. I also discovered that it is not a ritual where we must say things in the right order. (You should hear some of my Hwy 22 prayers.) It is also not a chore to get out of the way like brushing teeth before going to bed. Nope! It is a conversation....with a friend. To me it is a time for pouring out my frustrations, joys, tears, griefs, gripes. Jesus tells us in the Bible (Matthew 6:6 to be exact) to "Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. Well...let me tell you....my HHR on Hwy 22 is my prayer closet. It is in the confines of my car that the focus shifts from me to God, and somewhere on the road I begin to experience God's grace. For many years I have to admit tht prayer had very little to do with my life. I played at prayer. It was kind of like the National Anthem at a ballgame....something I began stuff with. I also used it like a rabbit's foot and prayed only when I needed help out of hot water. It was not until I finished a Beth Moore Bible Study that I began to see prayer as more like breathing. I don't breathe when I feel like it....I breathe to survive.....and I pray like that too. I love the feel of oxygen coursing through my lungs and have grown to love the feel of prayer coming out of my heart and mouth. Oxygen is like prayer....without oxygen you die....without prayer you die spiritually. So how is your prayer life today? 1 Thessalonians 5:17 -"Pray without ceasing." What a great way to start the new year....don't you think??

Hodge Podge Vol 60 - The First for 2012

2012-01-04T00:07:00.000-08:00

Volume 60 is it? I don’t know when I began participating…but it has been a while I know. I am the queen of random…..but have to admit that's a lot of random, isn't it? I enjoy answering the questions Joyce publishes for us on Hodgepodge. I look forward each week to see what she comes up with. Here are Joyce’s questions for this week. These are the first for 2012. Want to start out the year playing along? Then answer on your own blog and then come back tomorrow to link your post up with Joyce and see what the rest of Joyce’s readers/followers are saying.

1. What are three words you would use to describe your 2011? Sad, Sadder, Saddest. ‘Nuff said. But 2012 is a another day and this year is going to be a wonderful one! I just feel it in my bones.

2. Do you like shrimp? What's your favorite way to have it prepared? I adore shrimp. I love it scampi’d, grilled, stewed, skewered, fried…..any way you can cook it….I will eat it.

3. Is your house de-Christmased? If so when did you tackle that job? If not, when will the decorations come down? My house is not de-Christmased. I don’t remove my tree until after the Feast of Epiphany around the 6^th of January.

4. Do you like to watch scary movies? I do not watch scary movies. I don’t like to be frightened. I love historical, adventure, romance, comedy’s…that is it.

5. ice skating~sledding~skiing~snowboarding~of the four listed which wintertime activity do you most enjoy? I live in the south. We surf on Christmas day. I love to watch them all on television when the Winter Olympics happen. That is the closest I have ever been to any of them.

6. Did you have a childhood hideout? Describe it. Between my house and Carol’s there was a walkthrough that had heavy bushes and we would all gang up there and hide. It was always the first place my mom would look.

7. What's a place or space that motivates you? I have two and it depends on the season….the beach in the fall and Cades Cove in the fall or spring. I love to be both places.

8. Did you make New Year’s resolutions? If so have you broken them yet? I don’t make them because I can’t keep them. I did however, set a goal to spend time in the Bible every day and so far I am on track. I got a neat devotional/journal and am loving it a lot. I also decided to write more this year.

Softly and Tenderly

2012-01-03T00:02:00.000-08:00

About the Book: Happily married and owner of two successful boutiques, Jade longs to begin a family with her husband, Max. But when she discovers that Max has an illegitimate son—who he wants her to help raise—Jade’s life is turned upside down. Using the excuse of taking her dying mother home, she flees to her childhood home, a rambling Iowa farmhouse, with enough room to breathe. There—while her mother’s health grows fragile, and the tug of her first love grows stronger—Jade begins to question everything she thought she knew about family, love, and motherhood. In the wide-open landscape, Jade begins to see a future that doesn’t rest on the power of her past but in the goodness of God's tender mercies.

Trailer for Softly and Tenderly can be viewed here.

About the Authors: Who could have known that one of my favorite country stars, Sara Evans, had an author hidden deep inside. Softly and Tenderly was amazing and I can’t wait to get my hands on books one and three. According to one of my favorite authors, Debbie Macomber, “Rachel Hauck's stories are filled with twists and turns that leave the reader breathless and longing for more. She is a fresh fiction voice that will stir hearts for God. “ I personally loved that she “wrote her first story about a girl and her pony when she was ten. It was handwritten in a spiral notebook.” “ Her second story was about a girl who wanted to move away and live in New York City. She was twelve and no one had ever heard of “chick lit.” Want to know more about them then check out their websites. Sara can be found here and Rachel can be found here. Both of them are amazing women.

My Thoughts: I am not a big fan of starting a series in the middle of the series….but having missed “In the Sweet By and By” and jumping ahead to “Softly and Tenderly” I had no trouble catching up and becoming a part of the character’s lives. I loved this book! I felt as if the characters were personal friends of mine….or perhaps lived next door. I cried with and for Jade as she struggled to come to terms with God and life as it was dealt to her.

Who Am I in 2012?

2012-01-02T09:19:00.000-08:00

When I begin a new year I like to look back and reflect on what has gone before then look forward and make goals for what is yet to come. One of my fellow bloggers came across a list she had made about herself 5 years ago and shared it with us on January 1. I read her list and made up my own….but waited til today to share it with you because yesterday was my Project 365 day. Have you ever thought about who you are? If I had made this list 25 years ago it would have been very different from the list you are getting today. I decided that since this is a new day….I am taking a hard look at just exactly who I am and what makes me that. Warning: There are 100 of them....and you may get bored before you read them all. That is ok....scan them and see if there is any one that speaks to you.....

"100 Things About Me"

1. Blue is my favorite color

2. I'm right-handed

3. I’m a singer of songs

4. I’m a writer of songs

5. I am fluent in sarcasm

6. Fall is my favorite time of the year

7. I don’t like mean people

8. I am hard-working when I want to be

9. I take lots of photos

10. I participate in Project 365

11. I don’t really enjoy sports

12. I love pickles

13. My nose has been broken twice

14. I love to play board games

15. Have a "black thumb" …but keep trying

16. I do not eat beets.

17. The only reality program I watch is “The Amazing Race”

18. I am proud of my age and don’t mind telling it.

19. I am a peacemaker and hate waves.

20. I love music

21.I am a sucker for a sob story

22. I am a Type 2 diabetic

23. I am working on a book of stories to be published

24. I love to laugh

25. I love manicures and pedicures

26. I can drive a stick shift

27. I have blue eyes that change color with whatever I am wearing.

28. I am deathly allergic to hay

29. Have very short arms

30.Have been married twice

31.I am preacher’s wife

32. Am a certified lay speaker

33. Am shy in new situations

34. Love word games

35. I absoluely love Italy

36.Love true Italian pizza

37. Don’t like to swallow big pills

38. Enjoy making bows to put on gifts

39.Love to give people presents for no reason

40. an ADDOS (Attention Deficit Disorder – OH Shiny!)

41. Love to shop for shoes

42. I love to travel

43. Love spending time with family and friends

44. I love Ireland and Wales

45. Have a dog named Beau Diddley (Doxie)

46. I love to eat peanut butter by the spoonful.

47. Mother of a daughter

48.I am a teacher

49.I am a Christian

50. I hate to wear make up

51. I am overweight

52. Love to go to the movies

53. Love to cook

54. I hate to bake

55. Love to drive

56. Love orchids

57. Love singing in Still Magnolias

58.Wear glasses

59. Love Caramel Machiato at Starbucks

60. I am a bargain shopper

61. Hate wearing spandex

62 .Was a Brownie and a Girl Scout

63. My group opened for George Jones

64. Have a permit to carry an concealed weapon

65. Own a Bersa 380 (hand gun) named Emmylou

66. Do not like the taste of beer

67. Don’t eat innards of anything (liver, gizzards, et al)

68. I drive an HHR (Her Highnesses ride)car.

69. I love to drive pick up trucks

70. I am very proud of my daughter and her husband

71. I have been married twice

72. I was once a SAHM

73. I love to modge podge

74. I love to cross-stitch

75. I have smocked before

76. Love the smell of clean babies.

77. I have an extremely low pain tolerance

78. “Sassafrass” was my nickname in high school

79. Was called “Calhoun” by my first FIL and hated it!

80. I would rather read than eat.

81. Loves reading the Bible

82. Loves to attend Beth Moore Studies

83. Love to attend Extraordinary Women and Women of Faith conferences

84. Get up pretty much at 5:00 365 days a year. Sleeping in is 6.

85. Love Willow Creek Angels

86. Love blogging/and journaling

87. Became an only child at the age of 8.

88. Has lost both parents

89. Had missing parents with a National Silver Alert issued.

90. Love to people watch and be fashion police

91. Was a summer missionary for ASP (Appalachian Service Project)

92. Have a fantastic god-mother, who was my mom’s best friend growing up.

93. Love to tell stories.

94. Love teaching high school

95.Have a doormat personality and allow people to walk over me. (working on this one)

96. Do not take compliments well. They embarrass me.

97. Embarrass easily (especially by Bill Lankford.)

98. Cannot tell a joke unless it is written down.

99. Am a truly blessed person

100. Loves to explore – loves an adventure.

Now tell me something about yourself. I would love to know you better. I think it would be fun. Have a Happy Monday and wonderfully blessed 2012.

Project 365 - Week 52b

2012-01-01T00:02:00.000-08:00

This is the final 2011 Project 365. Tomorrow will be the beginning of a whole new year and I am delighted to say that Sara is going to continue for 2012 hosting Project 365. I am so excited. I have enjoyed documenting my life's events this year. I hope you will head over to Sara's and check out everyone's last entry for this year and come back and join us next year. You don't have to have a fancy camera....a camera on your phone will do....it is just a way to know what you did....every week....every day....for a solid year.

Sunday, December 25th

We had church only this morning. Frank read the Christmas story to the congregation and it was such a sweet service. Kat and Brian joined us for a late lunch and we played Apples to Apples. They headed home about 6:30. It rained pretty much all day.

Monday, December 26th

We are leaving tomorrow for Gatlinburg and Winter Extreme with our youth. I made Chex Mix for each car to have to snack on while in route....going and coming.

Tuesday, December 27th

First night of Winter Extreme. I was sick as a dog and spent my first night in bed. The kids had a ball listening to the house band, Unhindered....Toby Mac.....and others. They were not impressed with Red.

Wednesday, December 28th

Winter Extreme Day 2. Dave Edwards spoke. He was a funny man with a serious message. The kids had fun at the morning session....and then we went to Pidgeon Forge to shop and eat. After shopping we went back to the room to wind down before the night session. I stayed behind with one of our youth who has terrible migraines.

Thursday, December 29th

Morning has broken in the mountains at the Smokey Shadow Motel.

Our group at the end of the morning session.

Some of our kids at the concert on Thursday.

Another one of Frank's creations. The last of my Christmas gifts. He gave it to me on Thursday night after we got home. Is it not gorgeous.

Friday, December 30th

Friday night we went to Cracker Barrel in LaGrange with some of our church members. Mr. Larry was finally feeling good enough to ride that far. It was such a fun evening. These are some of the sweetest people ever. I wish you could all know them. There are others too I'd love for you to meet. Rock Mills is a wonderful place to live, raise kids, and retire....you can bet on that!

Saturday, December 31st

What was once the world's largest office chair at Miller's Office Supply in Anniston, AL. We went there today to go to a thrift store and Marcie took me by so I could get this shot. Happy New Year to you all....and I will be back again next year. See you then.

RIP Emily Houser

2011-12-31T11:51:00.000-08:00

Coming home from Gatlinburg on Thursday I received two pieces of terrible news. The first was from my friend Susan. She called to let me know that her niece, Emily.....was not going to make it. Susan asked for prayer and the group in my car prayed with me as we went down the interstate heading home. Once we got home I thought of times we had visited Chuck and Susan and Emily would be part of the mix. She was such a darling little person with such a big heart and smile. Susan had asked that she not suffer. That was the hardest part of praying....for a child to not suffer any more. I prayed....and I watched for emails and got a couple that said she was showing no brain activity and one that said they were taking her off the tube. That night at 8:24pm Emily Houser went to be with the Lord. She was 14 years old and for the last 5 years of her life has dealt with the side effects of a brain tumor that was removed. She was a gracious, beautiful (inside and out) little girl who delighted in doing for others. God showed His divine mercy by allowing her to go quietly as she slept. She left a huge void in their entire family but especially for her parents and two sisters who are 10 & 11. Please pray for strength and peace for all and celebrate with me that she no longer hurts and is doing things all in heaven that her body would not allow her to do here on earth. A friend of theirs put together a wonderful tribute video I would love to share with you here. RIP little one. You will be sorely missed Emily!

Hodge Podge Vol 59 - A Few Days Late and Few Dollars Short

2011-12-30T04:41:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday through Thursday of this week I was either traveling to, from, or in Gatlinburg for Winter Extreme with our youth at Rock Mills. Tuesday, on the way up....was sick the whole way...so hence why there was no Hodge Podge posted as per usual. Sorry I am late guys...I am home, still not 100%....but home and happy. If you have not already, hop over to Joyce's blog and check out everyone else's answer. You might want to visit Joyce's Christmas Recap...it is a lovely piece.

Ok so here we go with Joyce's questions and my answers. I hope you are prepared to be amused and whatever.

1. Share something you loved about your Christmas day.

Easy Peasy....a day at Church with my precious husband reading the Christmas story followed by an afternoon of games, food, and fun with my precious daughter Kat and her precious husband Brian. It was a perfect day filled with favorite things!

2. You get to put five items in a time capsule to be opened in 100 years, what items would you choose and why?

an handwritten journal- handwriting might be a thing of the past. Most young people think so.

a classic book - not an ebook....a real, smell the pages kind of book. They will be extinct in a 100 years and it would not amaze me if the only place you will be able to find one is in the vault of a library somewhere. My problem is chosing which one. There are so many awesome ones out there.

My 2011 scrapbook and blog in book form - I think the pictures will give 100 years from now the kind of laugh we get now when we look back at the 1950's, 60's and 70's. I find it hard to believe that I wore that.....ever....and thought I was cute in it.

the Bible - I would love to pack up my most favorite, dog eared bible, after having carefully marked the special passages I want to share.
a core set of school books (history, math, english, and science)...that way they will know what kind of role education played in our lives....and what we taught our children.

3. What do you like on a cracker?

Holiday cheeseball, peanut butter, colby or jack cheese, pimiento and cheese, chicken salad,....yep.... I will pretty much eat anything on a Ritz.....reasonably.

4. Do you make resolutions? How'd that work out for you this past year?

I don't make resolutions.....I break those pretty quick. I simply spend a week and reflect on my life from Christmas day until New Years Eve....I look at the good and the bad.....what I succeeded in and failed at....where I need to improve....or accomplish something new.....and pray over them. I do not write them down....because I have found when I made a big deal of them....I ditched them early on....with it kind of between God and I.....I tend to be a bit more focused because the big guy himself is aware of them. Last years goals were shot down in the water with all the death and dying in my life. I hope this year will be better. If I had to give myself a grade I would maybe get a C-. I was halfway there.

5. What's a song or song lyric you'll associate with 2011?

Blessings by Laura Story....this is the kind of year I had.

'We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise'

6. How will you ring in the new year?

I promise you I will be asleep before the ball drops. I will wake up and it will be 2012. We will do something with friends or do something together.

7. What is something you look forward to in 2012?

Peace for my family. A good year. I would like a year with no loss. I am tired of hanging out at the funeral home.....I am tired of tears.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Youth trips are so fun....especially with all girls....there is never a dramaless moment. You have got to love them. We took some of our youth to Gatlinburg to Winter Extreme....it was a wild ride....and the devil had his hand in it from the get go....but...inspite of him....three of our four girls rededicated their lives to God. Can I get an AMEN on that one.

Mercy Come Morning

2011-12-28T21:39:00.000-08:00

About The Book: There are no second chances. Or are there? Krista Mueller is in a good place. She’s got a successful career as a professor of history; she’s respected and well-liked; and she lives hundreds of miles from her hometown and the distant mother she could never please. It’s been more than a decade since Alzheimer’s disease first claimed Charlotte Mueller’s mind, but Krista has dutifully kept her mother in a first-class nursing home. Now Charlotte is dying of heart failure and, surprised by her own emotions, Krista rushes to Taos, New Mexico, to sit at her estranged mother’s side as she slips away. Battling feelings of loss, abandonment, and relief, Krista is also unsettled by her proximity to Dane McConnell, director of the nursing home—and, once upon a time, her first love. Dane’s kind and gentle spirit—and a surprising discovery about her mother—make Krista wonder if she can at last close the distance between her and her mother … and open the part of her heart she thought was lost forever.

About The Author: Lisa Tawn Bergren is a mompreneur, God follower, author, editor, traveler, dreamer, risk taker, learner all rolled up into one. She is definitely my kind of writer. Visit her website: http://www.lisatawnbergren.com

My Thoughts About The Book: As a child of a parents who suffered from dementia this book touched me to the core. I wish there really were somewhere like Cimarron where Alzheimer's patients could be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. This book is a must if you have walked, or are walking in my shoes. The characters were so vivid that I felt as if I knew both Krista and her mom. It was a touching and emotional story line. When dementia takes a loved ones mind it is actually harder than death....because they are physically still present....but the person you knew and loved is no more. I think Bergren did a wonderful job of portraying the steps of dealing with this illness and making peace with the past. A must read! But don't just believe me....look at what other writers have said about this book:

“A timeless tale, to be kept every day in the heart as a reminder that forgiveness is a gift to self.”—PATRICIA HICKMAN, author of The Pirate Queen

Praise for MERCY COME MORNING

“Mercy Come Morning is Lisa Bergren’s best yet! Strong characters dealing with passionate life-and-death issues in a Southwest setting so authentic I could taste the chilies and smell the sage. A compelling story of longing, love, and the search for life.… It’s a story to meet the need in every woman’s heart.”

—JANE KIRKPATRICK , author of A Name of Her Own and the Kinship and Courage series “Bergren just keeps getting better. Mercy Come Morning is a deeply moving story of love lost and found. It is also a gentle but compelling invitation to remember the things we should know by heart but often forget along the way.”

—CAROLYN ARENDS, recording artist and author of We’ve Been Waiting for You

“Lisa Bergren writes like a dream, softly calling us to familiar places, walking us through our memories in grandma’s kitchen, past the disappointments of growing up, and through the complexities of imperfect families. Mercy Come Morning is a timeless tale, to be kept every day in the heart as a reminder that forgiveness is a gift to self and joy the glittering residue left upon our doorpost when Christmas is kept every day of the year.”

—PATRICIA HICKMAN, author of Sandpebbles and Katrina’s Wings

This book was previously released as Christmas Every Morning

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in ebook format from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Company through their Blogging for Books program in exchange for my review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own and may differ from others.

Winter Extreme 2011/12

2011-12-28T13:15:00.000-08:00

Well it is the end of December and here we are at Winter Extreme again. This year we brought 4 girls and 3 adults. Our token male, Stiles, had to cancel at the last minute because his grandmother died. I miss having Stiles with us. The trip had a shaky start yesterday because I got sick on Monday night, was sick Tuesday morning, came anyways....and then...when I thought I had it licked....was sick in the car coming back from registering for the event. How gross and I am so sorry for Renee, Libby, and Lyndi as I sat in the front seat and threw up in a bag....there is no where to stop and pull over in Gatlinburg. We got back to the hotel and I went straight to bed at 3:30.....they all went to eat at CiCi's Pizza and then went to the first session....I slept. All night....and woke up only once when they got in about midnight. At 6 this morning I woke again....took a swig from my Sierra Mist....and knew I was going to survive today. We went to breakfast....and yes, yesterday was a total fast day for me. It killed me to be in a restaurant and smell grease, much less eat it. This morning I managed to keep a bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit down from Mickey D's. It was very good. We went to session one....and even though I wanted a Krispy Kreme doughnut I just could not stomach it. I ate half a hamburger for lunch...and some fries...and seem to be fine right now. We are ordering pizza for supper tonight after the concert....I hope I am up to it. I love me some Papa John's! Switchfoot is in concert tonight....but two of the girls have mega (migraine) headaches so they are napping now at the hotel. If they don't feel good when it is time to leave....I will stay behind with them. No problem for me. Switchfoot is a LOUD band. I missed hearing Toby Mac sing and Tony Nolan speak last night...and that does make me sad...but as bad as I was feeling....it was ok. We took the girls shopping this afternoon between sessions....I am not a huge shopper....so to be honest it was torture for me. I bought a pair of clips for my glasses so I could have some sunglasses....Frank bought a Starbucks....you can see we are definitely the last of the big shoppers. I hope you all are having a wonderful day.....I will have pictures to post on my Project 365 Saturday night. Frank and I got some great shots of Unhindered and Dave Edwards. Happy Wednesday!
BTW are you a camper? Up here in the mountains there are a ton of camping locations. I have actually camped at a few of them myself. While I am not an avid camper I have camped and enjoy it from time to time....actually...my idea of hardshell camping is Motel 6. But....I have camped several times with my cousin in her 36' 5th wheel with three pop outs. That is my kind of camping. There are some beautiful places in Alabama to camp....Lake West Point, Lake Martin, Lake Guntersville (especially if you want to see eagles). And...if you are a camper....then check out the following sites....
Alabama Camping (linking to: http://woodalls.com/campground/default.aspx?subtype=rv-camping&city=alexander-city&state=alabama&radius=50)
Family Camping Resources (linking to: http://www.woodalls.com/family-camping/)
RV Campgrounds (linking to: http://www.trailerlifedirectory.com/)
24 Hour RV Roadside Assistance (linking to: http://www.goodsamers.com/)

Bittersweet Surrender

2011-12-26T06:38:00.000-08:00

About the Book: Carly Westlake is living the dream. She spends her days at a spa (okay, so she owns the place), she's dating a hunk, and she's surrounded by chocolate-milk chocolate, her favorite-that she uses for the chocolate facials that made her spa famous.
But when long buried secrets threaten Carley's business and her friendship with business-partner Tom, she fights like crazy to keep the dream-and the illusions-afloat. It takes a miracle of grace to get Carley to finally make that bittersweet surrender to love and real life.

About the Author: Since January 2010 her life has been in a state of turmoil, though nothing more than God can handle. It was then she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It’s been a roller-coaster ride to be sure, but she has been fighting with everything in her and hopes to get past this. Want to know more about Diann? Check out her website: http://www.diannhunt.com.

About The Disease: Ovarian cancer is a silent killer. Symptoms don’t appear many times until it’s too late–or at least it makes for a much harder battle. Ovarian cancer is something women thing will never happen to us. We always think it’s someone else, but it isn’t. Take care of yourself. I care about you. Your family cares about you too....so get tested regularly.
My Thoughts: I have to be honest and tell you that Bittersweet Surrender started out very slow for me. The key word there is started out. Once the foundation for the story and the characters was laid the book became an very interesting read and the ending was worth the buildup. This book is a story of a tangled web created by lies, and of grace that is God given. Carly, the main character feels broken because of breast cancer and rejected because her husband left her when she needed him most. When another character sees her inner and outer beauty he reminds her that she is a creation of God and that Jesus loves her just the way she is. I loved the fact that these characters were seasoned and more mature in age. not the traditional 20 something year old heroine. As a 50+ reader, veteran of divorce, who has lost many friends/family members to breast cancer the book really touched my life. It is a definite must read. I hope you will take a chance and pick it up at your local book store. You won't regret it. Warning: This book will make you want to divulge in great amounts of chocolate.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in ebook format from Thomas Nelson Publishing Company in exchange for my review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own and may differ from others.

Merry Christmas To All!

2011-12-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful breakfast this morning first thing with the Towler family in the house next door. It was such a warm and wonderful time. At church Frank read the Christmas story from Luke 2:1-20 to us this morning at church sitting in this rocker with the children at his feet. We had the picture made after church. It was a messy, rainy day but the spirit inside the sanctuary was one of warmth and love. I am sitting here right now waiting for my daughter to come and spend some time with us. I have made chili and Mexican cheesy chicken soup for us to share. I quit making regular Christmas fare several years ago. I hope we have time to play a game or two. I hope you are enjoying your families and loved ones today. Merry Christmas to you all!

Project 365 - Week 52

2011-12-24T18:30:00.000-08:00

Well, according to Sara it is Week 52. It seems a bit odd for it to be week 52 when there is another week left to go. So Sara looked back and the issue is the week 1 only had 1 day in it!! Ok Sara so what are we going to do about this? I will be honest I am not ready to give up just yet. I think we should all post one more time and call the week 52B. Head over to Sara's place and see what everyone has been snapping this week. Merry Christmas to you all and a Happy New Year. Feliz Navidad! So, here's my week in a nutshell:

Sunday, December 18th

No, we do not have children this small....or grandkids. These are donations that were made for 8 children and my house was the collection point. The boys bike is for a neighbor child, the biggest girls bike is for the sister at that same house. The little girls bike is for a Rock Mills child who's house burned to the ground. I know these kids will love this. Two of these we are actually delivering after the kids go to bed on Christmas Eve. I can't wait.

Monday, December 19th

Bill's Charlie Brown outdoor decorations. I thought they were to cute to pass up.

Tuesday, December 20th

I didn't have my camera at Mrs. Betty Jeans and Mr. Larry's today when we stopped by to see their tree but this ornament caught my eye so I shot it with Frank's cell phone camera. It is not as good as I wished it were, but it will do. The bowling pin below was our Christmas gift from the Kings. They brought it all the way back from Michigan. I love it and it has a place of honor in the tv room.

Wednesday, December 21st

We were supposed to meet Georgia at school at 8 a.m. to clear out Mary's closet. Georgia must have forgotten because she did not show up, so Frank and I went through the closet and got all of Mary's stuff we could find. When we left you could actually go from the front to the back.

Thursday, December 22nd

Thursday night we had dinner and Christmas with the Blairs. Deborah's house was decorated so cute and we had such a great time. We had Brunswick soup and salad and then opened gifts. It was a fun time. We love spending time with the Blair family.

Friday, December 23rd

Frank gave me my Christmas present early. It is a backpack camera bag with a tripod. I love it and have already loaded it up and it makes traveling a whole lot easier.

Saturday, December 24th - Christmas Eve

Sunrise this morning. The second shot was out my french door window. Greg tinted my windows a few weeks ago and I thought I would try a shot through the tint. We went to Amanda's this morning for our family brunch and Christmas present opening. It was great fun.

Will with the garage. He was really into his work.

Kimbell and Drew man sharing a juice box.

I made photo albums for all of us who went to Rosemary Beach at Thanksgiving. They were a hit and Dustin is checking out theirs. I made 7 albums and they had 75 photos in each one. This one gift was the one gift that gave me a happy feeling.

Frank is figuring out how to put one of the kids presents together.

Drew and Tommy in deep discussion over a toy stethoscope. Tommy won.

Victor opening one of the two huge presents. One was full of packing peanuts and thankfully this one was not.

Wheeler with his Fischer Price backpacking tent set. It was really cool. We had two...one for Wheeler and one for Drew...and it took six adults to put the thing together. Oh I miss those days when we had little ones. Merry Christmas to you all! I hope you have a blessed day!

Tres Leche Cake

2011-12-23T16:58:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I was eating at a new Mexican restaurant in town and eavesdropping on a conversation between the owner and some customers. They were talking about Tres Leche(three milk) Cake and I have a killer recipe that one of my hispanic students mom gave me. I told the owner I would make him one to try, bring him the recipe, and maybe he could/would add it to his menu. Tonight was the night. I made the cake today and it looked yummy. He loved it and Frank and I got a meal on the house. I had Mexican lasagna and Frank had Texas Border Fajitas. The food was delish. I thought I would share my recipe with you and let you try it out. It is relatively easy to make and really different. Bon Appetite!

Tres Leches Cake

Ingredients

■1 cup All-purpose Flour

■1-1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder

■1/4 teaspoon Salt

■5 whole Eggs

■1 cup Sugar, Divided

■1 teaspoon Vanilla

■1/3 cup Milk

■1 can Evaporated Milk

■1 can Sweetened, Condensed Milk

■1/4 cup Heavy Cream

■ _____

■ FOR THE ICING:

■1 pint Heavy Cream, For Whipping

■3 Tablespoons Sugar

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 x 13 inch pan liberally until coated.

Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Separate eggs.

Beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar on high speed until yolks are pale yellow. Stir in milk and vanilla. Pour egg yolk mixture over the flour mixture and stir very gently until combined.

Beat egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. With the mixer on, pour in remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until egg whites are stiff but not dry.

Fold egg white mixture into the batter very gently until just combined. Pour into prepared pan and spread to even out the surface.

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Turn cake out onto a rimmed platter and allow to cool.

Combine condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream in a small pitcher. When cake is cool, pierce the surface with a fork several times. Slowly drizzle all but about 1 cup of the milk mixture—try to get as much around the edges of the cake as you can.

Allow the cake to absorb the milk mixture for 30 minutes. To ice the cake, whip 1 pint heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of sugar until thick and spreadable. Spread over the surface of the cake. Decorate cake with whole or chopped maraschino cherries. Cut into squares and serve.

A Christmas Tale

2011-12-22T05:35:00.000-08:00

I heard one of the best children's tale of Christmas past yesterday while visiting with some of our congregation. I am paraphrasing it for brevity and omitting the names. The momma reads my blog so she will recognize this delightful tale. "It seems that when the children were young times were tough. They only had one vehicle yet, this young mother would walk them to town and they would do things. One of them was looking at the toys at the dime store. At this particular dime store there were loads of the little army men and their accessories. The little boy wanted an army tank for Christmas. When Christmas time rolled around he got many gifts....but no tank. Later that day they went to a neighbors house and lo and behold the neighbor boy had gotten "the tank." My friend's son went to the little boy and told him he had to give the tank to him because Santa had left it at the wrong house." Don't you just love it. The innocence of children at Christmas. My second tale is also of days when times were tough. The father made minimum wage and I think it was around 1.90 an hour. Christmas rolled around and there was not a whole lot of money to be blown on toys. The mom was a thrifty shopper and managed to get several gifts by shaving money off her grocery money. The little girl in this story wanted Barbie everything. Santa brought her a couple of outfits, some accessories, a pool set( not Mattel, but a cheaper replica),some necessities, and something special. The children of the house had bulging stockings full of fruit, nuts, candy canes, and a small prize. Later in the day the little family went to be with extended family to celebrate the day and daughter of one of the cousins, who was the same age, had also asked for Barbie everything.....only she got it. The little girl with the fake pool ensemble could not understand the difference in gifts. Wanting to help the mom finally told her that parents paid Santa throughout the year. for the gifts and the little girl was fine with that. Several hours later she told her parents that she wanted her daddy to get a better job so they could give Santa more money next year so she could have a Barbie Dream House. Ah kids. My last two tales I am telling on myself. I too wanted Barbie stuff one year. Yeah...I was young when Barbie came on the scene. I wanted Barbie clothes....lots of them for my bubble hair cut Barbie. I only had one....at the time. My parents were firm believers in one big gift, on medium sized, and a couple of small gifts. When I woke up Christmas morning there was a Midge doll (She was Barbie's friend) and tons of Barbie clothes. They weren't in the pretty pink boxes that the store bought clothes came in....but they were perfect replica's of those. The key word here was replica's. I was almost embarrassed to show them to my friend, Carol. She got Barbie clothes in a box. I have realized as a parent and adult how selfish I was....and how much I hurt my mom and Aunt Mae Belle with my embarrassment. Each one of those outfits were made with love and after I went to bed each night the two ladies got out their sewing machines and made all those wonderful little outfits....and believe me sewing Barbie clothes is not easy. I had a black velvet evening coat with a diamond clasp at the neck, a fur lines red-velvet skating outfit, many dresses, many formals, and they had the accessories for all of it. All in all I had over 50 changes of clothes. They even made little under garments. When my friends came to play they actually fought over my stuff because months after Christmas my clothes were still intact and theirs were not. What love that was. Thanks Mom and Aunt Mae Belle. My last tale is about our poor year. My dad had been out of work for a while. He had a terrible kidney problem and was unable to work. I wanted a guitar, skateboard, and skimboard for Christmas. My dad would work during the day while I was at school an when he was not hurting....and he took an old busted guitar my grandfather had given him.....fixed it....painted it electric blue with a pink lightening bolt down the face, he took an old pair or metal wheel skates and made me a skateboard (electric blue with a pink lightening bolt), and made me a skim board out of a piece of our hurricane storm window boards...electric blue with a pink lightening bolt. I was delighted! I was old enough by then to know my dad had made these for me....and old enough to know what it cost him to sit up and make them. As a child....no matter what....I have wonderful Christmas memories. Do you have a special one? Tell me about it in a comment. I would love some bloggy Christmas love today. Happy Christmas Eve Eve Eve.

'Twas the Hodgepodge Before Christmas....

2011-12-21T04:41:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Wednesday Hodgepodge. I loved Joyce's Christmas play on words so I borrowed it. I hope she doesn't mind. I too hope this week finds you enjoying time with friends and family as we celebrate the gift of God's only Son. Be sure to join us and add your link to the bottom of Joyce's post and then go spread Christmas cheer to some of the other Hodgepodgers playing along today. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

1. Are you cooking Christmas dinner? How many will be round your table this year? What are we having? We are going to Amanda's on Saturday for brunch and I am making Noel's wonderful overnight sweet bread. I will make a picture of it on my Project 365 for this weekend. Sunday, Kat and Brian are coming and I am making something like chili. We always play games after we eat and my family does not do the traditional....on either side.

2. What is one must-have Christmas cookie in your house? Oreos.....year round.... in any way form or fashion. Dipped, plain, with milk, with coffee, it does not matter. But we don't eat them often....they are a special treat.

3. Santa likes a glass of milk with his cookies-do you? What kind of milk is on tap at your house-skim, almond, soy, full fat (Gasp!) In our house Santa drinks 2%. Mrs. Claus does not drink milk(yuck), except in her coffee.

4. Time magazine recently named its Person of the Year for 2011. This is the person the editors believe has had the greatest impact, for better or worse, in the past year. This year they chose 'The Protester'. Your thoughts? Who would you name person of the year for 2011? Gabriel Giffords would be my choice. She definitely triumphed over tragedy, and I mean come in....in this day and time her own husband stood beside her and declared his love and support from outer space. I am tired of seeing people like the Kardashians, Charlie Sheen, Lindsey Lohan, Paris Hilton in the spotlight like they are something special. Special implies above and beyond. I would like to see faces of our military, or Gabriel Giffords be honored....instead of overpaid, spoiled people who feel the world owes them something.

5. December 21st is National Flashlight Day...when was the last time you needed a flashlight? Did you know right where to find one? I used one yesterday to look into a closet that does not have a light in it. I know where several are because I have them posted around the house in case we lose our power. There are batteries in all of them.

6. Candy canes...yum or yuck? I can take them or leave them. I like the taste of peppermint in coffee or cocoa, I like it crushed in my peppermint almond bark, I like it crushed as an adornment on something I have cooked. To just eat one....not so much.

7. What Christmas carol lyric means the most to you? From Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song) - "I am frightened, by this load I bear" - can you imagine what this young woman was feeling? Can you imagine what you would have felt at this age carrying this responsibility?

8. Insert your own random thought here. Are you a traditionalChristmas song person or do you like those goofy Christmas songs...or both? I am a purist. I love the traditional songs like "What Child is This" and "Silent Night"; the hymn carols, and the songs like "The Christmas Song" and "Silver Bells" "The Christmas Shoes". I do not like songs that talk about Grandma getting run over by reindeers, or 9 years probation, or even Robert Earl Keen's song about Christmas with his family. You would think that as musical as I am I would like it all and my friends say that all songs are my favorites....but when it comes to Christmas music....not so much. Have a wonderful rest of the week and I will see you back at Hodgepodge next Wednesday from Gatlinburg, TN. Woooo Hooo....we are taking our youth to Winter Extreme! Can't wait!

Mercy Come Morning

2011-12-20T04:57:00.000-08:00

Product Details:

Paperback: 240 pages

List Price: 13.99

Publisher: WaterBrook Press;

Reprint edition (August 16, 2011)

Language: English

About the Book: Krista Mueller is in a good place. She’s got a successful career as a professor of history; she’s respected and well-liked; and she lives hundreds of miles from her hometown and the distant mother she could never please. It’s been more than a decade since Alzheimer’s disease first claimed Charlotte Mueller’s mind, but Krista has dutifully kept her mother in a first-class nursing home. Now Charlotte is dying of heart failure and, surprised by her own emotions, Krista rushes to Taos, New Mexico, to sit at her estranged mother’s side as she slips away. Battling feelings of loss, abandonment, and relief, Krista is also unsettled by her proximity to Dane McConnell, director of the nursing home—and, once upon a time, her first love. Dane’s kind and gentle spirit—and a surprising discovery about her mother—make Krista wonder if she can at last close the distance between her and her mother … and open the part of her heart she thought was lost forever.

About the Author: Lisa Bergren is a best-selling, award-winning author with more than thirty books to her name and with more than two million copies sold. A former publishing executive, she now splits her time working as a freelance editor and writer while parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of the family’s next visit to Taos. Want to know more about her then visit her website.

My Thoughts: As a child of an Alzheimer's parent this book was a direct hit home. I read and cried and read some more. It was a touching story and I would recommend it to anyone who has a parent with Alzheimers. I was delighted when Krista is able to make peace with her past and her mom. I was fortunate enough to also spend time with my mom and make peace with her and myself. Unless you have walked this walk it is hard to understand how this disease robs someone of their personality and mind. I wish Cimarron really existed. It sounds like an amazing place.

The First Chapter:

“She’s dying, Krista.”

I took a long, slow breath. “She died a long time ago, Dane.”

He paused, and I could picture him formulating his next words, something that would move me. Why was my relationship with my mother so important to him? I mean, other than the fact that she was a patient in his care. “There’s still time, Kristabelle.”

I sighed. Dane knew that his old nickname for me always got to me. “For what? For long, deep conversations?” I winced at the harsh slice of sarcasm in my tone.

“You never know,” he said quietly. “An aide found something you should see.”

“What?”

“Come. I’ll keep it here in my office until you arrive. Consider it a Christmas present.”

“It’s December ninth.”

“Okay, consider it an early present.”

It was typical of him to hold out a mysterious hook like that. “I don’t know, Dane. The school term isn’t over yet. It’s a hard time to get someone to cover for me.” It wasn’t the whole truth. I had an assistant professor who could handle things on her own. And I could get back for finals. Maybe. Unless Dane wasn’t overstating the facts.

“Krista. She’s dying. Her doctor tells me she has a few weeks, tops. Tell your department chair. He’ll let you go. This is the end.” I stared out my cottage window to the old pines that covered my yard in shadows. The end. The end had always seemed so far away. Too far away. In some ways I wanted an end to my relationship with my mother, the mother who had never loved me as I longed to be loved. When she started disappearing, with her went so many
of my hopes for what could have been. The road to this place had been long and lonely. Except for Dane. He had always been there, had always waited. I owed it to him to show. “I’ll be there on Saturday.”

“I’ll be here. Come and find me.”

“Okay. I teach a Saturday morning class. I can get out of here after lunch and down there by five or six.”

“I’ll make you dinner.”

“Dane, I—”

“Dinner. At seven.”

I slowly let my mouth close and paused. I was in no mood to argue with him now. “I’ll meet you at Cimarron,” I said.
“Great. It will be good to see you, Kristabelle.” I closed my eyes, imagining him in his office at Cimarron Care Center. Brushing his too-long hair out of his eyes as he looked through his own window.

“It will be good to see you, too, Dane. Good-bye.”

He hung up then without another word, and it left me feeling slightly bereft. I hung on to the telephone receiver as if I could catch one more word, one more breath, one more connection with the man who had stolen my heart at sixteen.

Dane McConnell remained on my mind as I wrapped up things at the college, prepped my assistant, Alissa, to handle my history classes for the following week, and then drove the scenic route down to Taos from Colorado Springs, about a five-hour trip. My old Honda Prelude hugged the roads along the magnificent San Luis Valley. The valley’s shoulders were still covered in late spring snow, her belly carpeted in a rich, verdant green. It was here that in 1862 Maggie O’Neil single-handedly led a wagon train to settle a town in western Colorado, and nearby Cecilia Gaines went so
crazy one winter they named a waterway in her honor—“Woman Hollering Creek.”

I drove too fast but liked the way the speed made my scalp tingle when I rounded a corner and dipped, sending my stomach flying. Dane had never driven too fast. He was methodical in everything he did, quietly moving ever forward. He had done much in his years since grad school, establishing Cimarron and making it a national think tank for those involved in gerontology. After high school we had essentially ceased communication for years before Cimarron came about. Then when Mother finally got to the point in her descent into Alzheimer’s that she needed fulltime institutionalized care, I gave him a call. I hadn’t been able to find a facility that I was satisfied with for more than a year, when a college friend had shown me the magazine article on the opening of Cimarron and its patron saint, Dane McConnell.

“Good looking and nice to old people,” she had moaned. “Why can’t I meet a guy like that?”

“I know him,” I said, staring at the black-and-white photograph.

“Get out.”

“I do. Or did. We used to be…together.”

“What happened?” she asked, her eyes dripping disbelief.

“I’m not sure.”

I still wasn’t sure. Things between us had simply faded over the years. But when I saw him again, it all seemed to come back. Or at least a part of what we had once had. There always seemed to be a submerged wall between us, something we couldn’t quite bridge or blast through. So we had simply gone swimming toward different shores.

Mother’s care had brought us back together over the last five years. With the congestive heart failure that was taking her body, I supposed the link between us would finally be severed. I would retreat to Colorado, and he would remain in our beloved Taos, the place of our youth, of our beginnings, of our hearts. And any lingering dream of living happily ever after with Dane McConnell could be buried forever with my unhappy memories of Mother.

I loosened my hands on the wheel, realizing that I was gripping

it so hard my knuckles were white. I glanced in the rearview mirror, knowing that my reverie was distracting me from paying attention to the road. It was just that Dane was a hard man to get over. His unique ancestry had gifted him with the looks of a Scottish Highlander and the sultry, earthy ways of the Taos Indians. A curious, inspiring mix that left him with both a leader’s stance and a wise man’s knowing eyes. Grounded but visionary. A driving force, yet empathetic at the same time. His employees loved working for him. Women routinely fell in love with him.

I didn’t know why I could never get my act together so we could finally fall in love and stay in love. He’d certainly done his part. For some reason I’d always sensed that Dane was waiting for me, of all people. Why messed-up, confused me? Yet there he was. I’d found my reluctance easy to blame on my mother. She didn’t love me as a mother should, yada-yada, but I’d had enough time with my counselor to know that there are reasons beyond "...I’d always felt as if I was chasing after parental love, but the longer I chased it, the further it receded from my reach. It left a hole in my heart that I was hard-pressed to fill. God had come close to doing the job. Close. But there was still something there, another blockade I had yet to blast away. I would probably be working on my “issues” my whole life. But as my friend Michaela says, “Everyone’s got issues.” Supposedly I need to embrace them. I just want them to go away.

“Yeah,” I muttered. Dane McConnell was better off without me. Who needed a woman still foundering in her past?

I had to focus on Mother. If this was indeed the end, I needed to wrap things up with her. Find closure. Some measure of peace. Even if she couldn’t say the words I longed to hear.

I love you, Krista.

Why was it that she had never been able to force those four words from her lips?"

Excerpted from Mercy Come Morning by Lisa Tawn Bergren Copyright © 2011 by Lisa Tawn Bergren. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group's Blogging for Books program . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

OOOOPS! Wrong Church!

2011-12-19T04:37:00.000-08:00

Have I got a great story for you all today. Most of you know that Frank preaches at Rock Mills UMC and we share a parking lot with Rock Mills Baptist Church. The Baptist Church is the first church you come to when you come down Hwy 22 heading East. Yesterday, Amanda and I were singing at our church. She was supposed to be there at 10:45 my time(Central time). She lives on Eastern time so we always make sure to let the other one know which one of the time zones we are talking about. At 10:58 Amanda was no where to be found. I could not get her on neither her house phone nor cell phone. I was a bit concerned. At 11:03 Amanda came in and told me she had been next door at the Baptist church for the past 30 minutes. She asked me, "didn't you see my car in the parking lot?" I replied, "No, because I was not looking for it in the Baptist side." She said she had talked with some of the members, had her guitar, and it was not until she saw the Baptist Hymnal that she realized she was in the wrong place! She made a hasty retreat and we sang on time at the METHODIST church. When she left I walked her to her car in the Baptist Church part of the parking lot. They were getting out too and several of them came over....including their pastor....and we all had a good laugh at the mix-up. We did get a singing invitation to come back at another time and sing for them. We promised we would. The pastor then told us of a time when he was preaching a revival and went to the wrong church. One of the members told of a time he went to a funeral at the wrong church. I love stories about these unexpected life events. Thanks A for giving me a great story to tell. I will definitely add it to our unforgettable wedding tales. We have some doozies don't we?

Project 365-Week 51

2011-12-18T05:51:00.000-08:00

Well the countdown is on and there is only one more week until Christmas. Am I done shopping....for the first time in 20 years I have to say, "no!" Friday was our last day at school so I am hoping to finish up next week. Everyone has gorgeous pictures posted this week so head over to Sara's and see what is happening in blogger world at Christmas. Here is a glimpse into my life this week:

Sunday, December 11th

Tonight was our Children's program at church. I left morning church and went to sing at my friend Mary's funeral. On the way home I saw these in our neighbor's yard and grabbed them. Their house looks like a gingerbread house. It is so precious. Tommy and Sandra went all out this year.

Monday, December 12th

After guitar lessons on Monday night, Frank and I went down to Tommy and Sandra's to see her Coca Cola tree. Everyone around here knows that I am all about decorations. Sandra's were awesome. I have never seen a deer mount decorated and loved it. Her living room is full of deer and bear and looks just like something you would see in a cabin in the woods in the Smokies. I loved it.

Tuesday, December 13th

Tuesday night we met the Girl Scouts at the Armory to get the food they had collected for our food bank at church. Then while we were headed to unload it at the church we got an emergency call for Santa. We unloaded and ran home and Frank jumped into his Santa Phonebooth and out popped Santa and his elf P.J. I grabbed a quick shot before they headed off to do their Christmas work.

Wednesday, December 14th

Frank has been working day and night in his workshop. He has it set up now so that it runs like a fine oiled machine. He has been making all kinds of things in there and on Wednesday invited me in to the "Man Cave" to see what he was up to. I love the cross and the portrait. He delivered them on Saturday and the mother was delighted.

Thursday, December 15th

We bowl on Thursday night and Frank had a couple of projects for Bill, Mary's husband, so we stopped by to visit before bowling. I had to get some shots of his tree and yard. I was with Mary when most of these were bought. Each one has significance. Mary and Bill love Mickey and Minnie, the beaver ornament has a light in the barrel that makes it look like fire....and reminds her of Maine, we both collect lighthouses, Bill makes birdhouses, and they are huge....and I mean huge Auburn fans. The manger scene came back with us from our trip to Michigan in 2010. It took up almost the entire back of the van.

Friday, December 16th

I had a wedding rehearsal/dinner in Chandler Springs tonight. The rehearsal dinner was in the fellowship hall and I got to grab a few shots of what we are in for on Saturday. The colors were pink and silver and the bottom picture of the napkins and bows ....each table had them....each table had a different theme....and the groom's aunt did every one of them. I think she started the day the engagement was announced. Even the brides table was done around the base. I am telling you it was lovely. The jars of pink stuff...will be lit tomorrow and it was really beautiful in the hall.

Saturday, December 17th

While we were setting up to sing at the reception I grabbed a few shots more. The bride's cake was made by my best friend, Deborah. Angela is a nurse and her table was an ER heliport with little things that tell you about her. The ornaments on the tree were clear ones filled with pink shredded paper. They were so pretty. Quinn's cake was made by Barbara and was red-velvet. His table had things on it that are fireman/EMT things....and a Charlie Brown tree.

I grabbed two shots inside the church before the ceremony began. Quinn's pink helmet was on the railing and there were three decorated trees with huge pink and silver bows topping them. Pink poinsettias were everywhere. After the service we moved them to the reception hall and put them in their places there. When Amanda and I got ready to leave Quinn gave us each one. I am going to put mine in the church today. All in all it was a lovely week and I am glad to have the next two weeks off. Have a wonderful week and I will be back next week with my final submission for 2011.

Quinn and Angela

2011-12-17T05:22:00.000-08:00

My cousin's son Quinn is getting married today. I am so excited. Quinn has been my sweetheart since he was just a little fellow and I am so glad he has found his lifemate. Angela is adorable. Quinn is an EMT and Angela is a nurse....talk about a perfect combination. The church looks like a winter wonderland with three trees and silver and pink everywhere. Her brides table has a helipad on it and his is full of fire trucks. The reception hall at Chandler Springs is dreamy with pink and silver everywhere.....oh it is not the garish pink from "Steel Magnolias," but it is a soft beautiful pink. Quinn's aunt embroidered every single table cloth and bow with pink bows and silver bells. Anyways, last night when we went to rehearsal I wondered where her mom was....and why there was a picture at her side of the unity candle. I leaned over and asked my cousin, Cindy, what that was about and she told me that Angela's mom had died from cancer four years ago. I sat there and felt such a sad feeling wash over me that this precious bride was missing an important element from her very special day. Amanda and I are singing the "Wedding Song" at the wedding today. I sang it tonight for rehearsal and the acoustics at the church are fabulous. This was my first rehearsal to actually practice during the event. It was fun to belt out the song without any music and no sound.....just my voice. Before we left the sanctuary to go to the fellowship hall to eat (I was excited about this....my cousin Cindy and her husband Johnny used to have a restaurant and they are both amazing with a recipe) I saw the bulletin for today and a pin on a card. I took one of each....ok, so I won't get one today. I promise! The back of the bulletin is a picture of Angela and her mom in bandanas in a heart frame....with a sweet poem called, "Someone is Missing." The pins are for the guests to wear in loving memory of her mom, Brenda. They are spirited little angel pins. I have mine and will be wearing it and some how believe that her mom will be right in the middle of the whole celebration. Angela's mom always told her that "someday her prince would come," and I believe she was right. Quinn is one special guy....and he is marrying one special girl. Good luck to you both. I wish you years of love and happiness.

BTW....Quinn got this pink helmet as a wedding gift. 1217 is their wedding date. Is this not hilarious? I love it!

Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks

2011-12-16T00:06:00.000-08:00

About the Book: Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks is about a young girl, April Grace, and her life growing up in small town Arkansas during the 1980’s. April's mom drops a bombshell that there is going to be a new addition to the family, and she then has complications that force her to take it easy. Since her mom can no longer run the church play like she usually does, Isabel St. James, drama queen, is asked to help put on the church play.

My Thoughts: As a high school teacher with some lower functioning students I thought this was a rather enjoyable read. Since it is written for tweeners it was an easy read. I told several of my students who love to read about the book and they went straight out and got it for their Kindles. K.D. McCrite created vivid characters, and a sweet touching story. Most of her characters are called by their first and middle names, such as April Grace, Myra Sue, Melissa Kay….a very southernesque practice. The book is grammatically spot on…..but the language is all southern. Southern idioms, such as “lick of sense, happier than a pig in slop,” abound in the story. Her masterful use of southern slang make this a delightful story. This book is written for readers between the ages of 9-12. Although, anyone raised in the south can relate to this story and those not raised in the south can dream.

About the Author: K.D. McCrite has “been writing since she was old enough to hold a pencil. She’s always loved to read, and books became her best friends. She grew up on an Ozarks dairy farm and that meant that most of her time was taken up by farm work. When she wasn’t taking care of the calves, or mucking out the barn, or helping her dad in the hayfield, she’d tuck a book under one arm and hoist herself into the hayloft, where the scent of the hay was warm and sweet. Or she’d scoot up her favorite tree in the backyard where the breeze swung the branches gently. When she began writing stories, she’d sneak off into the woods, or down to the pond with her notebook and pen and hope her mother didn’t call her to come help cook supper. These days she spend most of her time at the computer spinning tales that she hope will entertain the readers.” April Grace Reilly, the spitfire heroine of the “Confessions of April Grace” series, shares a lot of things with her, from their love of books to their red hair. But, April Grace sticks her foot in her mouth a lot more than McCrite ever did. And she has a lot more adventures.”

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Thomas Nelson Book Sneeze blogging review program . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Pirate Queen

2011-12-15T06:24:00.000-08:00

About the Book: Saphora Warren, the envy of her friends, wife, mother, is the model of southern gentility and accomplishment. She lives in a beautiful Lake Norman home, and has raised three capable adult children. But she’s also married to a successful, yet philandering plastic surgeon. It is for that reason that, after hosting a garden party for Southern Living magazine, Saphora packs her bags to escape the trappings of the picturesque-but-vacant life. Her planned destination is a neglected family bungalow on the Outer Banks. Saphora’s departure, though, is interrupted by her husband Bender’s early arrival home and his words that change her life forever: I’m dying. Against her desires, Saphora agrees to take care of Bender, who instructs her to take him to fight his illness in their coastal home in Oriental—the same house to which she had planned her get-away. When her idyllic escape is overrun by her grown children, grandchildren, townspeople, relatives, and a precious neighbor child, Saphora’s escape to paradise is anything but the life she had imagined.

About the Author: Patricia Hickman, M.F.A., is an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction whose work has been praised by critics and readers alike. Patricia first studied creative writing at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and then went on to do graduate studies in creative writing at Queens University. She has served as a writing professor at UNCC and taught in writing workshops across the country offering her popular “Creating Characters–Giving Story People Life” workshops and courses on fiction. She, along with her hubby, founded a non-profit charity that benefits moms and children with HIV called The Secret Angels Project. Her fiction is known for its depth of understanding of the human condition underscored by redemptive themes.

My Thoughts On the Book: The novel was far from perfect. I thought it was because I read it in e-book format but I don't think that was the case at all. Some of the character’s were well developed and others, not so much. I was a little confused when parts of the story were begun and then dropped. The acquiring of Bender’s journal is one of those moments….it is found, Saphora begins to read it, and then dropped from the story line. I also found that relationships among the characters are not developed fully either. Overall, the story line is good wonderful and there are nuggets of wisdom scattered sparsely throughout the story and at every introduction to a new chapter . The book has a Reading Guide at the end and I was impressed with several of the questions. I think I would like to participate in a book study of this book and look at it on many different levels. I enjoyed the book once I got into it. I loved many of the characters….and hated a few too. I will read something else by Patricia Hickman and would recommend this book for others to read.

Download and Read the first chapter here

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group's Blogging for Books program . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dashing Through the Snow Hodgepodge - Vol 57

2011-12-14T03:15:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Wednesday Hodgepodge...so glad you took the time to stop by and leave me a comment. It is not too late to be part of this so just head over to Joyce's blog and leave her your link so we can all come and visit you. Remember now....be sure to add your link at the bottom of her post and in the spirit of Christmas go visit around and leave some comment love. Here are my answers for week 57-
1. Do you put Christmas decorations in every room of your house? If not, what rooms do you decorate? I have gone all out in the past. Last year there was a decorated tree in every single room. This year it is pretty much limited to the living room where the one and only tree is standing. I have put a small tree 12 inch metal tree in the guest bathroom. My dining room has a centerpiece and a glass jar of balls.

2. If you could visit one of the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) which one would you choose and why? I am not going to lie. I would like to go to all of them.....but since I have to choose I would love to do to Denmark. I would love to see the scenery, eat the food, listen to the music, and take pictures.

3. What does the word faith mean to you? Faith is what allows there to be humor in the presence of someone dying. Faith is what gets you through the really tough times. Faith is knowing that the chair I am about to sit in is going to hold me up. Faith is what has gotten me through the last two years. I cannot imagine how someone who has no faith deals with death. Faith is knowing it is well with my soul.

4. You can go back to your childhood for one day...what day and age would you choose?
January 5th, 1963 and I was 8 years old at the time. If I could go back I would stay in our back yard with my brother so he would not have died.

5. When did you last have 'punch'? If its not too much trouble share your favorite punch recipe.
The first one was at Kat's Cookie Swap - this punch was simple - She used Cranberry Sierra Mist, limes, and crushed ice. It was yummo. The Cranberry Sierra Mist is seasonal...at least it is around here. The second one was at Amanda's Open House last Saturday night. I am not a big punch drinker but this stuff was amazing.
Banana Punch
6 large rip bananas, 3 1/4 cups sugar, 5 T lemon juice, 12 oz can frozen orange juice thawed, 1/2 can of Dole pineapple juice, Water to fill, Ginger ale.
Directions: Break up bananas in small pieces and place into a food processor with sugar and lemon juice. Blend until the lumps are gone. Add thawed orange juice and pineapple juice and blend well. Pour this mixture into a gallon container and finish filling the container with water. Stir well and freeze. When ready to use, take out of freezer and thaw until slushy. Add equal parts of mix and ginger ale when service in a punch bowl over crushed ice. Will keep months in the freezer. If too sweet, add more ginger ale.

6. Do you fill stockings at your house? Are stockings opened before or after the bigger gifts?
I did when my kids were little. It was fun then. I haven't since Kat and Brian got married.

7. What takes your breath away? Newborn babies, awesome views where you have no doubt that God is there, squalls before a storm at sea, sunsets and sunrises.

8. Insert your own random thought here. - Mine for today is: When do you take down your Christmas tree? Usually it is around January 6th for me. I wait for Epiphany. That is when my mom always took hers down....and it stuck. Now let me hear what your tradition is. Happy Wednesday!

A Birdseye View of God

2011-12-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine sent this picture to me....whoever the photographer is they caught this at just the right moment and my friend sent it to me at just the right moment. Timing is everything!
Psalm 91:4 tells us that, "He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection." O I am so delighted at this very moment to know that there is absolutely nothing to fear about tomorrow; for God is already there. Have a wonderful Tuesday!

She Said, "Yes!"

2011-12-12T06:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Frank did a sermon called “A Lesson in Carols.” It was beautiful, although the songs chosen were unfamiliar to most of the congregation. I did not know but a few myself…yet found the new ones oddly interesting. You see….Christmas for me is influenced strongly by the music. I began our Advent time by singing the song, “Mary, Did You Know?” Every year when I sing this song it made me think about her….Mary. She was just a very young girl – when the angel Gabriel came to her. No one would have paid any attention to her because she wasn’t wealthy or important. She was a simple peasant girl living in a small insignificant village. Had she died, probably few would have noticed – except for one thing. God chose her to be the mother of the Savior of the world. She was chosen. Can you imagine how she must have felt through this whole event? Can you imagine what her thoughts were as her time grew closer? I know how overwhelmed I was. I love the story of Mary. the second Sunday of Advent I went to the Arbor service at First Church in Alex City and sang, "Breath of Heaven" with Rhonda. It is also a Mary song....she is anticipating the birth of her son....and the tech crew had a video that was of Mary riding a donkey on such a hard journey. The Mary stories always touch my heart. So let me ask you….have you noticed what has happened in worship services over the past few weeks? Have you seen a change in the music? Around this time of the year we change the music and start singing songs like: O Little town of Bethlehem, Away in a Manger, Joy to the World. In fact we know that Christmas is getting closer when we hear the songs being played. As Jesus gets closer and closer we can have a song in our hearts. I look forward to the time of year when we get to sing these songs. I often wonder why we can’t sing them all year long. You all know I am a favorite song nut….and have hundreds. I would be hard pressed to chose just one favorite Christmas song…..but did you know that Mary had a song? It is found in Luke 1:46-55. “46 And Mary said: "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. 49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. 50 And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, 55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever." Luke 1:46-55 (NKJV)” Mary had a song of praise. Her focus for her praise is God. Let me tell you something about praise. When you are praising God – there is no time for a pity party. Praise always moves you out of negativity, and into positivity. Let me tell you – if anyone had a right to have a pity party it was Mary. Young, pregnant, single. Can you hear the gossip? Can you image the stories? Mary also had a song of purpose. God does not do anything without a purpose….and He definitely had one in this story. God was smack dab in the middle of the situation. God was/and is in control. God had/has a purpose for what was/is happening. The song is about God. His purpose will be fulfilled. His plan will come to pass. Whatever is going on in your life – guess what – it’s not about you. It’s about God wanting to break into your life. Into you home. Into your holiday. Into you heart. God has a purpose for you. God has a purpose for what you are going through – He wants to be in the middle of you life. He doesn’t want your problems to be the center of your life. He doesn’t want your circumstances to be the center of your life. He doesn’t want your situation to be the center of your life. God - Himself - wants to be the center of your life. I have to ask you all right now….are you letting Him? Mary was a just very young girl….barely a teenager…. when the angel Gabriel came to her. No one would have paid any attention to her because she wasn’t wealthy or important. She was a simple peasant girl living in a small insignificant village. Had she died, probably few would have noticed – except for one thing. God chose her to be the mother of the savior of the world. Mary had a song of promise. God told her, “I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing; and I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” 12:2-3 God does not lie…..so what He said to her….would come to pass. Please understand, have I already tell you that she was a very young girl – when the angel Gabriel came to her? No one would have paid any attention to her because she wasn’t wealthy or important. She was a simple peasant girl living in a small insignificant village. Had she died, probably few would have noticed – except for one thing. God chose her to be the mother of the savior of the world. Let me encourage you this season put a song in your heart. A song of praise, a song of purpose, and a song of promise. You too can have a song in your heart if you will ask Jesus. Remember Mary? She was a very young girl – when the angle Gabriel came to her. No one would have paid any attention to her because she wasn’t wealthy or important. She was a simple peasant girl living in a small insignificant village. Had she died, probably few would have noticed – except for one thing. God chose her to be the mother of the savior of the world and she said, "Yes!"

Project 365 - Week 50

2011-12-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that there are so few weeks left in this year. It has been quite a year and I will actually be glad to see it end. I have enjoyed taking pictures of my year and I have really enjoyed seeing everyone else's pictures. I look forward to seeing them each week. Want to join in and see some other photographs then head over to Sara's blog, she is the hostess with the mostest.

Sunday, December 4th

On my way to Amanda's to go the a funeral I passed this cute little donkey.

Monday, December 5th

Holly from Marian's yard in Daviston.

Tuesday, December 6th

Tuesday night was Kat's cookie swap party. I went this year for the first time ever and had a wonderful time. It was such a festive night.

Wednesday, December 7th

Bill has really been working hard getting the Christmas decorations up. I stopped by there to see Mary today. She had really declined since Monday.

Thursday, December 8th

I was back at Mary's again today. Bill called around 5:15 in the morning and told me Mary had died earlier.

Friday, December 9th

I finally put up my tree. The jar holds some of my most treasured ornaments. These ornaments were on my tree when I was a little girl.

Saturday, December 10th

I love ornaments and can tell you the story about every single one I have.

Rainbow Row ornament that is a reminder of when Frank and I first met. It is one of my favorite places in Charleston.

My lovely Mary angel ornament. Mary gave her to me about five years ago for Christmas. Is she not beautiful?

This dove was given to Frank when he worked at First Church.

The Nativity made in Townsend, TN and given to us by Chuck and Susan last year.

On one of my very first Christamases in Alabama my friend Susan gave me this ornament. I think she even made it. She was always an amazing crafty person.

Frank's work ladder ornament. I gave it to him in 2009.

The two bells are remnant ornaments that were mine when I was a child.

Terry giving Jax a guitar lesson at Amanda's Open House.

Oh Come On! This is Ridiculous!

2011-12-10T06:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know how many of you keep up with all the yah yah that has been going on in Alabama's legislative system, but they have really been on a tear and out for blood with Alabama's teachers. All the small perks we have had for the past many years have been taken away from us. In a state that ranks 49th in teacher pay, perks were all we had...and now that is gone. Well...the Alabama legislature in their infinite wisdom has now passed a new

ethics law that prohibits teachers from taking gifts from students and parents. I don't know about other teachers but the most expensive gift I ever got was a candle...or maybe it was a Christmas ornament....or it could have been the homemade hot chocolate mix. I was a parent of students who gave gifts...and believe me with three kids in school I never gave any gift that was of any great value (no season tickets to an Auburn or Alabama game from my kids). This morning a teacher in Semmes, Alabama's editorial made facebook and I just had to share Paulette's comments with you all. It makes you wonder what the people we elect to represent us were thinking, don't you think? "Alabama’s new ethics law will not have much of an impact on teachers, other than the classroom discussion that will be a natural outgrowth of the misguided application of this law.In all my years of teaching, I have received many gifts from

students — most of them acceptable under the new ethics guidelines. On a few occasions, I have been given gifts and gift certificates that will now be illegal. But the most valuable gifts I have received are far beyond the reach of any legislative act.The ethics of most teachers are guided by giving, not receiving. Just this year alone, I was privileged to buy uniforms for four or so students. (I personally have helped obtain prom dresses for students who wanted to go to their Jr.-Sr. prom and could not afford it.) I supplied several students with school supplies: pencils, pens, notebooks, dividers and paper. Then there are the backpacks and shoes some of my students needed, not to mention the groceries and even a bit of cash for one struggling family. Just this year I have had students and their families who needed legal help, medical care and mental health services; so I did my best to direct them to agencies that could help them. On top of all this and at my own expense, I keep my classroom supplied with tissues, paper towels and hand sanitizer. I could go on at length and let you know about the ethics of Alabama teachers who have taken in homeless students, bought college textbooks for former students and helped graduating seniors get dress clothes and caps and gowns. For almost every student who receives a scholarship, there is a teacher who has taken the time to write recommendations. (There is also the many times I have translated documents for the school system, the city, churches, parents....and translators make around 50.00 an hour....but I did it for nothing because it was my job to help my students.) I (and any other teacher in this state.....or any state) could write a book on all of the things teachers do because we care about our students, not because we are bribed or paid for it, not because we get gifts, and certainly not because we are wealthy. We do it because we care. So, Alabama Ethics Commission, there is no way you can legislate against the gifts I receive from my students. I get to see their eyes light up when they finally understand new ideas and concepts. I am privileged to see a child get excited over a backpack, dance delightedly because of new shoes, scream over college scholarships, or cry when he or she gets help with college expenses. Most valuable of all, I am given gratitude. I have received elaborate cards, scribbled crumpled notes, telephone calls and visits that let me know that whatever little I have done has at least made some difference in the life of a child. Oh, I love the cups and cookies and cakes and notepads. But the gift that is so valuable and cannot be taken away by a legislative act is: I get to teach. Now, Alabama Ethics Commission — if you can find any of your former teachers who are not ashamed to say that they taught you — buy your former teachers a big, expensive, wonderful gift and then write 100 times: “A $10 gift card is not going to corrupt education.” And, by the way, get out your old civics textbook. You need to remember that corruption is not usually the problem of those on whom the law is imposed. It is usually the problem of those who write the laws. Teachers are not the wellspring of corruption, and a Christmas turkey is not going to change us. We are teachers; we care; we make a difference. You legislators just craft laws, disguise PAC contributions and daily show your total disregard for those of us who make a difference in the lives of all Alabama children. We teach — and will continue to do so — because we care, not because we get gifts." Paulette Davis, who has taught for 34 years, teaches Honors English at Mary G. Montgomery High School in Semmes, AL. To Ms. Davis I tip my hat and say, "You Go Girl!"

The Christmas Singing

2011-12-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

Recently I did a review one of Cindy Woodsmall's books called The Christmas Singing. I have to be totally honest and tell you that I loved that book and have shared my copy with several friends already who also loved it. I want everyone to read this enjoyable Amish tale. If you would like to find out more about the book them click here and see a trailer for it. You won't be disappointed because it is a wonderful feel good Christmas book. It is a great story of love, faith, security, heartache and restoration. If you are like me and a reader then you can click here and check out a preview of the first chapter of the book. Warning! It will hook you I can promise you. I wrote my review back in November so if you'd like to see what I really thought about the book you can head over to my blog and check it out. While you are there leave me a comment and let me know you stopped in. P.S. Waterbrook Multnomah has given me the chance to offer a 30% off deal and free shipping on The Christmas Singing (and any other title) when my readers use the promo code CHRISTMAS11 at the check out on their website at WaterBrookMultnomah.com. Hurry because the coupon code expires on December 20th, 2011.

What Is Left To Say?

2011-12-08T04:34:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago our yearbook teacher came and asked me to write something for Mary. They knew her time here was limited and they wanted to do something special for her. I had sent them some pictures earlier. I sat and stared at my computer and tried to make words come to my head. I am a writer....but nothing was there. Finally in the wee hours of the morning two days later I wrote my piece. Mary died this morning in the wee hours of the morning and I thought I would share this with you all.

Mairsey Dotes (Marnet, Mary), whatever name those who know and love you may have called you. A friendship like ours comes along very seldom in our lives. You were my soulmate, sister, and the best definition of best friend forever. We have traveled many miles together and along the way we made some wonderful memories. You have touched many lives with your kind and gentle spirit and I will never be the same because in my life I knew you. Our journey was too short and there were many things we had to leave undone….but the memories will always be tucked away in my heart.

Go dtí le chéile againn arís, mo char (Until we meet again, my friend)

Now let me tell you briefly about this amazing woman. I called her Mairsey Dotes (and would sing her the song every time I saw her. It always made her smile...even towards the end. I actually sang it to her when I was alone with her yesterday afternoon on my way home. She was sleeping....but I know her lips moved and I saw a hint of a smile. Oh yes, she knew I was there.) Mary was a rad tech at Russell Medical Center for 30 years and somewhere during that time frame decided she wanted to teach Special Ed Science and then regular Science. (she was still a part-time rad tech because she loved that job too!) I met her....over 20 years ago and our friendship actually began when we were both hired at BRHS the same year. Our soul sisterhood began when she fell during a bomb threat and broke her ankle. I sat on the ground and held her until the ambulance came. We were inseparable from that moment on. She was a sounding board when I was struggling with a divorce....and I was hers. She was my biggest supporter, biggest fan, and loved me with all her heart. I felt the same way about her. Today when you have your moment of silence or prayer time....please pray for Mary's family, her friends, and her students. Our BRHS staff is saddened for the second time in just a few weeks. Her death has left a huge hole in the hearts of many people. This woman made an impact on many lives. She truly was amazing and I am glad I was able to walk with her for as long as I did. I will miss you my friend!

Hodgepodge - Volume 56

2011-12-07T06:17:00.000-08:00

Joyce's Hodgepodge this week has the cutest title, "Grandma Got Run Over by the Hodgepodge-Volume 56." I love it! That is my least favorite Christmas song....but as a blog post title it is perfect. With all the holiday comings, goings, and doings I feel like this Grandma has definitely been broadsided by a reindeer for sure. I have really enjoyed doing Hodgepodge with Joyce and her crew. It is a place where everyone is welcome in the Wednesday Hodgepodge world ...here are my answers to this week's questions and if you want to see what everyone else is saying then head over to Joyce's blog and check it out.

1. Will you be hosting any house guests between now and the end of December? Does that thought make you happy or crazy? Do you do anything special to make your house guests feel welcome? How long should a guest stay?

I am not officially as of yet hosting anyone at my house. Kat and Brian will probably come up on Thursday and I may fix dinner for them. Missi and clay may spend the night with us on Friday night since they are coming from Nashville for just the day. Since Christmas and Christmas Eve are on Saturday and Sunday as a pastor and wife....we will be busy with Come and Go Communion and church. We are having a brunch at Amanda's on Christmas Day....and we will drop in after church. I like my guest to feel welcome when they are at my house...and I hate to see them leave when they go.

2. Walter Elias Disney was born this week back in (Dec 5) 1905...what's your all time favorite Disney movie? Here's a list in case you're struggling...and yes, you have to pick one.

Ok...I will bite. You all know I don't have just one favorite of anything movie, music orientation....so I will say the Princess Movies. That covers a broad spectrum of Disney tales and yet.....it is only one! Sometimes I amaze myself with my ability to answer, yet not answer.

3. What's the last thing you purchased that you realized was a mistake after the fact? I have a bedroom suite that Frank and I purchased right after we got married. We needed one and I loved the fact that this one was pickled white and elegant looking. It still is. The headboard is just way too high and I wish we had opted for the lower one. We have had it for about 7 years. I don't usually buy things without having thoroughly thinking the purchase through.

4. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done online? I would say about 50%. I Christmas shop all year long.

5. Amaryllis...snowdrop...poinsettia...your favorite winter blossom? Amaryllis would be my choice from the selections given. I really prefer Christmas cactus, then poinsettias, and then snowdrops. I love blooming plants year round.

6. What is one thing on your personal wish list this year? I think we all want peace on earth so let's make this an actual item. I want a 300mm lens for my camera....but to be honest. I want a year without sorrow. Since 2009 I have had too much sorrow. Amanda and I talked about this the other day and decided this is what we both are asking for.

7. If you could only use one word today what would it be? My word would have to be forgiveness.....for myself....and for others.

8. Insert your own random thought here. I love pinterest and crafting. I have become a pinterest addict. As a matter of fact as soon as I hit posts here I am heading over there to see what I can find today. My biggest shortcoming is loving crafty things....but not following through with them. I get real excited about something....do it non stop...and then burn out. Are you like that? I will share two of my pinterest projects that I have followed through on.....this time I am taking it slow. I am shooting for 1 a month....but if time permits....would like to do one a week. Last night my daughter Kat hosted a cookie swap and the cookies I took were straight off pinterest. Several of the ladies there also used pinterest recipes. I made oreo truffles...and let me tell you they were to die for....and only three ingredients ladies!

The Ride Of A Lifetime

2011-12-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

Published on: 10/18/2011

Format: E-Book

Pages: 238

ISBN: 978-1-44971-169-6

About the Book: When Lucas McCade retired from the PRCA rodeo circuit, he was an internationally famous rodeo star. In a life of conquering hard bulls and harder men, he had rarely known defeat and never given into fear. Little could he have known that as he left the arena of wild-eyed bulls and slashing hooves, he was stepping into a life filled with real danger. Once he rode for gold-buckle dreams, now ride with Lucas McCade as he scouts the back trails over the rolling hills of Oklahoma and encounters the paths of the powers of darkness. In a culture where a man’s word is still his bond and a handshake seals a deal, McCade leads his family in a walk with Christ that causes outrage in the spiritual realm. Once again, ancient battle lines are drawn between the powers of the Prince of Darkness and the Heavenly forces of Jesus Christ. It promises to be the ride of a lifetime!

About the Author: Kitty McGregor is a wife, mother and grandmother. She and her husband reside in Oklahoma where their lives are intertwined with faith, love and livestock, enjoying the ranch life and western heritage that inspired this story.

My Thoughts: Kitty McGregor's writing feels real. It is obvious that she loves her subject and gives a lot of detail in her story without making it feel overwhelming. She has a the ability to make the reader feel, taste, and experience everything in her story. It is a Christian book, yet, it is a modern western about the occult. I do believe that the book does jump from one setting to another and it makes it a little difficult to keep up with the shifts. However, the reader should have no problem keeping things straight. This story is an engaging one . The tale that McGregar weaves reminds me of early Frank Peretti with a western kick.

I'll Be Home For Christmas

2011-12-06T08:34:00.000-08:00

The words Christmas and family are synonymous to me. In all of my 57 years I have only spent oneChristmas without my parents once and it was the worst Christmas of my life. The year was 1979....seems like eons ago now.....and we did not have the money to go see my parents, my mom was hurt and bedridden because of a bad fall, and my grandfather was dying here in Alabama. Ronnie's parents and family all lived here....and my grandparents did too....but it was not the same as being with MY parents. It was the bluest Christmas I have ever had and I vowed that year that it would never happen again. My grandfather died on December 27th and my parents ended up coming to Alabama...but it was not the fun and joyous time Christmas should have been. The holiday mood was tainted even more. I found myself singing, "I'll Be Home For Christmas" alot. You know I could have understood this if I had been in college....or a young myself. Griefus....I had my own children at the time....two children ages 9 and 10 and was expecting one in June. It should have been a happy time for me....but it wasn't. I was not home. Selfishly I even asked Ronnie if we could afford just one ticket for just me to go home....I was ashamed that I even asked. I always made Christmas special for my children....and without me here....it would not have happened. Ronnie's family always had a progressive dinner on Christmas Eve....and if I had gone home...I would have not been part of that....I was torn between wanting so much to go to my childhood home....and staying in my married home. it was truly a blue Christmas for me all around. This is my first year since 1979 to find that feeling creeping into my heart again....only this time I can't go home because my parents are celebrating Christmas in heaven....together. What a glorious Christmas we will all have when we are all united once again! Then....I'll [truly] Be Home For Christmas!

Hark! I Hear Some Singing

2011-12-05T06:51:00.000-08:00

When I married the first time I married a man with two small children. I was barely 21 and the kids were 4 and 5. J was 4 and E was 5. E loved music....but was as tone deaf as they come. This is hard for someone with a musical background....but he was so precious....and I loved to sing....so sing we did. E had a favorite Christmas Carol that he loved to sing year round. When he was five he actually thought the song was about our family. It was too cute to hear this precious little blond headed doll come up and request "Hark The Harrell Angels Sing (that was our last name)." Yep, I spelled it right....and if you try it out....it could actually be sung that way. No matter how hard I tried he would not buy that the word was actually Herald. Even now I will slip and sing the familiar version of this wonderful old hymn and smile. Whenever this song was played E would sing out with so much gusto. But I think we all do that at Christmas time. It seemed like yesterday everyone sang with a little more umph. I love Christmas songs. Don't you? I especially love researching the stories behind them. "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" has an interesting tale. Did you know that “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” first appeared in 1739 in the collection Hymns and Sacred Poems, was written by Charles Wesley. His version is not the version widely known today. A sombre man, Wesley had requested and received slow and solemn music for his lyrics, not the joyful tune we now expect. What is more, Wesley's original opening couplet is "Hark! how all the welkin rings / Glory to the King of Kings". I gave you a link to discover what a welkin ring is. The popular version is the result of alterations by various hands, notably George Whitefield, Wesley's co-worker, who changed the opening couplet to the familiar one, and Felix Mendelssohn who wrote the tune. Over the weekend I heard a wonderful rendition of this time old favorite that I thought I would share with you all today. I hope you like it. Click here to enjioy it.

Project 365 - Week 49

2011-12-04T00:05:00.000-08:00

It is week 49 of Project 365 and I am sad to see this year draw to an end. Project 365 has been good for me to search for just the right picture, chronicle my year, and learn how to use my camera. I have thoroughly enjoyed this. Thank you Sara and I hope we are going to start over again next year. If you would like to see all the pictures everyone has made them visit Sara's blog and enjoy.

Sunday, November 27th

Mr. M.L. is fixing one of the burned out bulbs in our pre-lit tree so we can begin hanging the Chrismon tree.

Three of my favorite Chrismon ornaments. They were made by our Ladies Guild. Aren't they gorgeous?

Bro. Frank, Ms. Beth, and Ms. Renee planning the Carol of Songs service for the 11th. I love Christmas....don't you?

Monday, November 28th

This was an act of love. Frank is a huge Florida State fan and our neighbor Wayne is a huge Florida fan. Frank made him this Florida plaque using his scroll saw. That folks is love!

Tuesday, November 29th

The two versions of the Alabama plaque he has made. Aren't they gorgeous? I personally like the solid houndstooth one. Which one is your favorite look?

Wednesday, November 30th

If you don't like Christmas decorations then I am sorry. I got a little happy with the decoration pictures and there are still so many more I want you to see. Taking light pictures at night was a challenge for me.

Thursday, December 1st

I was in Montgomery on Thursday night at the AEA Delegate Assembly. The first tree was on the corner outside our hotel, The Embassy Suites and the huge one with the blue lights was one of many in the Renaissance Hotel across the street and where our meetings were held.

Friday, December 2nd

I remembered that I had not made a Friday picture as I was leaving my room to come home on Friday and knew that I probably would not have another chance. This tree was in the entrance of the Embassy Suites Hotel and I caught this shot from the hallway outside our room on the third floor. They also had many gorgeous decorations and when I asked if I could photograph them the manager asked if I would not. He did say though that if I got a shot or two in with people in them it would be ok. I have never been much of a rule follower. I did honor his wishes....and only shot this one...with no flash.

Saturday, December 3rd

Frank and I rode down one road on our way home from the auction tonight. This is shot at a small lake. I loved the way the words create this mirrored image. The shot below is from the other side of the lake. It is Santa in his workshop.

The tree below is one of three trees in a house right before the lake and I think they are gorgeous. I love the swirly ends.

I love Christmas time can you tell! Have a great week and I am dying to see some of your decoration pictures. Have a wonderful week and God bless you all real good!