The Fourth Fisherman by Joe Kissack

This is an inspirational story of how three Mexican fishermen survived nine months at sea and ended up over 5000 miles from home. How they were sustained on rainwater, raw fish and the Bible. It is also a story of how Joe Kissack, a wealthy Hollywood executive, found God after depression and addictions bring his life crashing down around him and puts his career on hold.

But it doesn't just stop with Joe finding God. He embarks on a journey to discover what God wants him to do with his life and the story of the Mexican fishermen. Even though his wife has always prayed for a godly man, his pursuit of this story nearly bankrupts them and ruins their marriage. But as Joe prays more for God's direction he realizes that God wants him to be just as responsible for his marriage and family.

This story is about faith and hope. It is about a journey that we all take in one way or another. How we are just as lost, adrift in life, as those fishermen were. We are all in peril and we can all find our lifeline in God and His word, just as Joe and the fishermen did.

I really enjoyed this story told by Joe Kissack. It is his true story as well as the true story of the fishermen. It made me realize that although we may see those in Hollywood and think: "Look at them, they have it all", he was actually worse off than the poor fishermen from Mexico. We think that we need to have "just a little bit more". The more we pursue that "something more", the more lost we become. We start to fear losing what we do have and sometimes we need to so that we can rely on God more. He has promised to take care of all our needs. What more should we ask for?

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Nativity

I was looking for an image of the Nativity to use as a background on my desktop today. There was a lot to choose from. But I am very picky about my pictures. And I read an interesting blog on someone else's opinion of the Nativity's portrayal. I had to agree.

Many artists, well intentioned to be sure, show Christ's birthplace as glamorous and holy, with beams of light, glow in the dark infants and halos over Mary's serene face. But I think maybe someone should paint a more realistic representation.

After all it was essentially a barn in a very busy town. I am sure, as one blogger pointed out, that there was poo everywhere. Just a tad dirty. Now maybe Mary swept up a small area for them to sleep in and for her to give birth in. But more on that later. Maybe the animals were attentive, maybe not. I am sure they were aware that their Creator was there but I doubt they were sitting around in awe and reverence. I am sure the Bible would have mentioned that, since God made it a point to tell us that the rocks and trees would praise Him if we ceased to. And He tells us of when Balaam's donkey talked.

The paintings often have chubby cherubs floating overhead, in beams of light. The Bible says that the angels appeared to the shepherds in the fields. It also points out the these men were afraid. I'm sorry but floating babies would not scare me, concern me yes, but not scare me. Could you imagine seeing a short, chubby, baby in the air saying "do not be afraid..."? I might start laughing at that point hearing a baby voice speak to me. I imagine that the angels were fierce looking warriors, hence the reason for the "do not be afraid..".

As for the star, I do not think it was a big bright light shining down on Jesus like a spot light or some tractor beam. And it doesn't even really show up until the wise men are led by it. And they didn't show up for possibly two years after the birth. And Jesus may have been a pale baby, as most are after birth, but I doubt He was lit up like a lite brite toy. And any responsible mother, no matter how young, would have had him wrapped up(as the scriptures say he was) and not laying naked and exposed to whatever the weather may have been at that time.

Now to Mary; she was young, as young as 15 or 16. This was her first baby. She had to have been terrified. She had no family other than Joseph. They were in a strange city and she is due. And now they have to sleep in a barn with smelly animals. I don't know if Mary was obsessive compulsive or not, but every new mother wants a nice, clean place to have a baby. So I think she may have had some time to clean a spot but not much bigger and definitely not the whole place(like I would have wanted to do). She may have been happy after the birth but I am sure she was exhausted and still a little frightened. I was at the birth of my first. I can't imagine it was easy for her and I doubt she glowed as she is often portrayed. She was probably laying down too.

I did find a picture I liked without spending all day looking at the thousands that I am sure are posted online. I am not trying to down play Jesus' birth and say it should not be honored. It was a precious gift given to us from God, who loves us very, very much. But it was more real than just a "pretty picture". I could go on and on about what it may have really been like. How can we relate if it was all glowy and serene and clean. Jesus lived life as we do and so He understands us. He was born and lived in a humble way. So that He can relate to even the poorest of us.

Now it is up to us to accept that "gift" no matter how it was wrapped. Because it truly is the greatest gift ever given to us. To all of us no matter what we have done in life.

 Merry Christmas to all and Happy Birthday Jesus.

The Future Door by Jason Lethcoe

Living next to Sherlock Holmes can be a struggle for a budding detective. But when Holmes goes into retirement someone is needed to step in. Thirteen year old Griffin Sharpe is just the person, with the help of his uncle, Rupert Snodgrass, a brilliant inventor.


When Rupert's time travel device is stolen by the Moriarty's they watch the future unravel around them. They are now in a race to recover the machine and undo the damage done by the Moriarty's. Will Griffin's faith in God and his inventive thinking be enough to save their future and London?


I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I want to describe it as cute but not in a cuddly sort of way. I really loved the characters of this book and enjoyed the way the author put God in this book through Griffin's faith. This is a good book for young readers as well as their parents. My eighteen year old wants to read it only because she loves Sherlock Holmes and anything related to him.


This book is the second in a series and I may find the first one and read it too. I want to see how Griffin's relationship developed in the beginning, how God worked on Rupert's heart to mellow him. The second book stands independently and you don't have to read the first to understand what's going on in the second.


I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Drgons of Chiril by Donita K. Paul

For years Tipper has been caring for her family's estate after her father's disappearance. As finances dwindle she is forced to sell off his artwork. Then she learns that three of his sculptures are an ancient foundation. She must set out on an adventurous quest to reunite the three statues before their world, as they know it, crumbles around them.

Joining her is: a young artist who wishes to learn from her father, a handsome dragon keeper prince, a wizard and his librarian and a giant parrot, who was given charge over Tipper before her father disappeared. The wizard and the librarian try to teach the others about Wulder's love and grace along the way. They encounter evil and learn to conquer it in order to reclaim the statues.

This book was a little slow at first but then as they set off for their quest the story picked up. Each of the characters were unique and lovable. I enjoyed the dragons the most. I didn't find myself relating exclusively to any of the characters as I sometimes do in books, but I still enjoyed reading this adventure.

I enjoyed the way the author portrayed God in her descriptions of "Wulder". She interpreted the scripture into poetic tomes. But I could clearly tell she was paraphrasing from scripture. In the story one o the travelers realizes he is to be Wulder's Paladin and he then must spread the good news of Wulder and teach the people of this country of Wulder's love for them.

I told my daughter about this book and she is now interested in reading it too. I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent

This is a story about Colton Burpo who went to Heaven during a life saving operation. When he came out of surgery he was screaming for his dad. When the nurses located him and took him to see his son, Colton told him that he almost died. He told him that he had seen the doctors working on him and had seen him praying in another room by himself. This blew Todd Burpo away.

Over the next few years Colton would describe visiting with Jesus and meeting his stillborn sister and his Pop. He would describe heaven and people he saw there. He would describe feelings in heaven, like Jesus' great love for the children and the beauty of His eyes.

I was impressed with the story and the fact that Colton's parents,Todd and Sonja, never pushed for descriptions. They would wait for him to say something and then question him without asking leading  questions. They never considered jumping on the story and making it a book sooner.

It definitely makes me think more of heaven and if it is really as he describes it.  It is very well written and it gives you insight into the pastor and his family as well. That no one is promised an easy road but that God will walk it with us.


I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

A Sound Among the Trees by Susan Meissner

Holly Oak is a house in the south said to be cursed or haunted by Susannah Page who is accused of being a spy and traitor during the civil war. A curse on the women of Holly Oak, misfortune seems to have followed them through the generations.

Marielle Bishop marries into the family and is transplanted into her husband's home. As she learns about the house's history and the rumors of the haunting, she starts to believe that the house may be out to get her. She begins to search for the truth and a way to make peace with it.

I enjoyed reading this book. It wasn't overly riveting or exciting at first but it did hold my interest and did pick up halfway through. There wasn't anything overly religious about this book, but I did like how one character returns after finding peace with God and helps the inhabitants of the house realize the truth and accept the fact that changes needed to be made.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

The Soul Reader by Gerard D. Webster

Ward McNulty's life is falling apart around him. He is a jobless journalist, broke and losing his home and crippled from an accident that ruined his life and reputation and a relationship with woman he loves. But just when things seem the bleakest,, Carrie walks back into his life again with a book deal. They are to investigate and write about the very event that ruined his life and caused his father's death. At first he turns her down but then agrees to help her, if only to protect her from the danger sure to come.

As they dig into the investigation, they discover inconsistencies with the death reports of several key members of the group. This brings about a contract to end their lives. Through all of this, Ward leans on God for help and direction in his life and with Carrie.

Even though this is a Catholic based story I enjoyed the fact that they relied on prayers to God. I may not agree with all Catholic traditions and rituals but I can support and praise the author for having his characters leaning on God for direction ad for instilling values that I believe even some so called "Christians" have tossed aside.

The story aside from it's religious content was exciting and enthralling. I zipped through the book in no time. I always enjoy a good action/suspense story and this was definitely one. And I liked the fact that the author felt no need for crude language.

On a side note I have to say at this point that I borrowed a friend's kindle to download this. I thought that I would remain a devote paper book reader but I actually found the kindle somewhat convenient. I may have to invest in one since it is looking like many books available for review are now mostly ebooks.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Ascent From Darkness by Michael Leehan

Michael Leehan made a decision at age 33 to serve Satan.  He felt it was the only one to make. But over the years he spiraled further and further into chaos and depression. Worshipping Satan took a toll on his life physically because of blood letting and blood sacrifices, mentally because Satan isn't into love and hope, and of course spiritually because it took him away from God's love.

But God isn't one to give in easily. Michael tells how Satan influenced him but God sent strong believers to bring him the light and hope he longed for. And eventually brought him to the place of decision. Either he took his life or gave it all to God and let God work miracles.

This is a book for anyone who has struggled with depression, hopelessness, and spiritual warfare. It reminds us that no matter how far we think we are from God all we have to do is turn around and He is right there.

As I read this story I thought back on all the times when I felt a tug of war for my soul. Even now. God never promises easy times but He promises to never leave our side. We need to lean on Him for strength. This book has given me the courage to keep on moving on with God, in God, through God. I feel many would benefit from reading this book. Teenager, young adults, and adults. Whether you are a fence sitter or hard core for God.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Gabby, God's Little Angel by Sheila Walsh

 I picked this book mostly for my 4 year old daughter. She loves Sheila Walsh's Gigi God's Little Princess dvd series. So I figured she like this too. I grew up listening to Sheila Walsh's music and it is wonderful to see she has created these wonderful books and dvds.

Gabby is an excitable, talkative guardian angel who is assigned to watch over Sophie who has a lot in common with this little angel.

This story is written to show children and adults, if they listen, that God loves us very much and sends His angels to watch over us. This is found in the Bible in Psalm 91:9,11.

Without giving away too much of the story, Sophie gets a pony and while trying to ride it for the first time gets into a little trouble. Later as she talks to her mom about it, she says she was a little scared but felt "protected".  Her mom then shares the scripture in Psalms with her and tells her that God does this because He loves us very much.

I found this story adorable and saw my daughter in both Gabby and Sophie. I am so very thankful that God sends His angels to watch over us. they will have there hands full with her and I am sure be greatly amused at her antics.  My daughter's comment to the story was "Wow, I can't wait to get a pony and try riding it like that".   Oh boy. They are going to be busy. :)

She really liked this book as much as I did. My only fear is that like Gigi it just encourages her to be even more excitable and active than she already is. But at least she is getting the message that God loves her and everyone very much.  Thank you God for the talent and insight you have given Sheila Walsh. I know you had my daughter in mind, along with others like her, when you inspired Sheila Walsh to write about girls just like her.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Scroll by Grant R. Jeffrey and Alton L. Gansky

"One last dig.  One final descent into the twisted tunnels of ancient Jerusalem.  Will the truth be fund among the treasures that lie beneath the holy city?  In a world where faith has been eclipsed by the allure of doubt, The Scroll offers a different journey: a gripping adventure to find truth worth dying for."

Biblical archaeologist, Dr. David Chambers, loses his faith in God after a painful experience. And despite the evidence surrounding him has decided to leave that field of study for another not so Biblically influenced.  But before he can, an old mentor calls and offers him a dig of the lifetime. Despite misgivings he agrees. This dig will unearth treasures long searched for and could change the course of the world. It also brings him face to face with his former fiancee. As they struggle with their feelings for each other, they are also faced with threats from opposing peoples. 

I found this book interesting. I couldn't stop reading it because I just had to know what would happen next. Would they find the treasure? Who is leaking secrets? Is it truly possible to find treasures spoken of in the Bible? 

I found myself relating to the characters very easily. Especially with David's struggles with his faith.  Amber is a good example of someone who relies on God entirely regardless of what happens in life.  Dr. Ben-Judah is a charismatic man and you can't help but love him. 

There is a lot of action and suspense in this story. It is a good example of christian fiction. It just shows you don't need cussing and smut to make a story good. 

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

 

The Canary List by Sigmund Brouwer

"Protected by the dark of night, Jaimie Piper runs. But is anywhere safe when Evil is hunting you?
 
She’s just a twelve year-old girl, bumped around between foster homes and relegated to school classes for challenged kids, those lagging in their test scores or with behavioral issues. But her real problem is that she can sense something the other kids can’t—something dark. Something compelling her to run for her life.
 
All Crockett Grey wants is to mark the anniversary of his daughter’s death alone.
 
But when his student Jaimie comes to him, terrified, her need for protection collides with his grief, and a tangled web of bizarre events sends them both spiraling toward destruction.

Crockett’s one hope of getting his life back is to uncover the mysterious secrets of Jaimie’s past and her strange gift. It isn’t long before his discoveries lead him to a darker conspiracy, secrets guarded by the highest seat of power in the world—the Vatican."

This book held my attention from beginning to end. It kept me guessing as to how it would end. And even the ending was surprising.  I felt drawn to the characters and rooted for them all the way through.

It also had me wondering if what happens in the book actually happens in the Catholic church or even in government. I do believe in the existence of demons but question the way that Catholics struggle to expel them. Jesus said be gone and they left and told us we only need to have the same faith and authority to do the same. Jesus gave us the authority in His name and we only need to have the faith.

There is not much to say about this book without giving away to much of the storyline. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in good fiction. As a matter of fact my 17 year old has already confiscated this book from me and told me I may not get it back.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Courageous by Randy Alcorn

This book is a novelization written by Randy Alcorn based on a screenplay the Kendrick brothers wrote. They are the creators of Fireproof. This book is about four policemen who learn that they need to do more than just serve and protect their town, but also their families. That God has called them to rise up and be men of God and teach their children the ways of God. To be honorable men who hold up high standards and expect nothing less. These men encourage each other to be "courageous" enough to live up to God's standards regardless of what others may say around them. To hold each other accountable.

This book also deals with the everyday worries of policemen and their families. How, many families break up over the high stress of their jobs and that these men need to hold strong and fight for their families.  It deals with the overwhelming facts that children who grow up without fathers are often easily led into doing wrong because they have no role models to show them otherwise.

I really enjoyed this book and it has made me realize that had it not been for the prayers and discipline of my own dad, I wouldn't be who I am today.  I am very thankful that I have a "godly" dad.

I was happy to see that much scripture was used to support this book. To show us the things God expects from us, not just fathers but mothers too, and from the children we must teach. We need to take a stand and be "courageous". We need to fight for our families and encourage others to fight for theirs.

Men, if you see a child who needs mentoring and if you feel God calling you to do so, step up and do it. Pray and ask for God's help. Women, if we see a girl who needs a godly female influence and we feel God calling us to be that influence, step up and do it. Many can go to the mission fields and lead those to Christ but what about our own backyards full of "needy" children and probably even "needy" parents, whether single or otherwise.

I know I need to do some more praying not just for my own family but for whatever needs God leads me to be "courageous" and fill.

One other note...This book, as I stated, was written based on a screenplay. The Kendrick brothers will be releasing this movie September 30th. Following in the footsteps of their other movies such as Fireproof and Facing the Giants, it should be good and I cannot wait to see it.  Here is a website to check out a clip of that film.  http://courageousthemovie.com/

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me a complimentary copy of this book and does not require a positive review

making jewelry and other such fun

I have been kind of in a funk when it comes to making jewelry lately. One day I'll make a few pieces, then nothing for a couple of weeks. The only thing I have been trying to participate in is my facebook group's weekly challenges. The group is called CCC group: (color combo challenge)

It actually helps because it will make me think of color combos that I would not have tried otherwise. I have a lot of fun doing this. It is very humbling and inspiring to see the others post their creations. It is a very talented group of people.

I have been so busy this summer with visiting my family, going to see an old friend in West Virginia with a couple of other old friends, and camping at Raystown Lake with my family(much fun there). My oldest daughter is going to college this fall and I am excited and nervous for her.

I have come to realize that I probably should get a job to help out with finances or at least to support my jewelry habit. Meg will be going to Headstart this fall again so I hope to find a job that will let me work only the hours she is in school, so that I do not have to pay for daycare. *fingers crossed*

I made a few pieces of jewelry for my friends. I made a mother's ring and a beautiful stone ring and now I must get started on a bracelet. Well, I guess that is about all for this summer. I am trying to finish a book for review, so I will post that when it is done.  Look for more posted pictures of my CCC challenge pieces and  for the jewelry I made for my friends down at the bottom of my blog page.

PrayerWalk by Janet Holm McHenry

"Challenge your body.   Feed your spirit.   Change the world.
Ask any Christian woman about her most recent New Year’s resolutions, and you’ll likely find that “exercise regularly” and “pray more” were at the top of her list. We all long to look and feel our best, to live actively and healthfully. More than that, we desire to connect intimately with our God. Yet physical health and spiritual growth often take a backseat to the urgent demands of grocery shopping and bill paying, time with family and friends, and long hours at the office.

It’s Time to Exercise Your Prayer Life.

Three years ago, author Janet Holm McHenry suffered from depression, weight gain, and exhaustion. Then she began a prayerwalk routine that not only transformed her life but also profoundly impacted the lives of those around her.

Learn how you, too, can set out on a journey to increased energy, better health, and greater joy—and experience a rich, full prayer ministry that will have a lasting impact on your loved ones and community—in PrayerWalk."

I love this book. It has inspired me to make my walks more than just "me" time. I have often felt frustrated because the only time I could pray uninterrupted was right as I fell asleep or right before my daughter woke up. And since I was usually very tired either way I often left out those on my list of people to pray for.

I got up this morning to try my very first prayer walk and I feel a little jumbled in talking to God but I know He knows my heart. I also know that I do not need to be overly wordy or eloquent with Him. I did feel happy that I was able to pray without having someone asking me a zillion questions.

In this book Janet Holm McHenry not only gives advice on how to start your prayers and suggestions on what to pray for but also how to start out physically. And she also emphasises that it needs to be a burden that God has laid on our hearts. I will be rereading this book again or at least all the parts I underlined and highlighted in this book. I would definitely recommend this to anyone interested in walking and praying.

“I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review”.

Managing God's money by Randy Alcorn

"God cares a great deal more about our money than most of us imagine. The sheer enormity of Scripture’s teaching on this subject screams for our attention. In fact, Jesus says more about how we are to view and handle money and possessions than about any other topic—including both heaven and hell. In Managing God's Money, Randy Alcorn breaks down exactly what the Bible has to say about how we are to handle our money and posessions in a simple, easy-to-follow format. Filled with Scripture references, Managing God's Money is the perfect reference tool for anyone who is interested in gaining a solid biblical understanding of money, possessions, and eternity."

I just struggled my way throught his book. It was a struggle for many reasons: 1) It's summer and I just can't get into reading right now. 2) I am at my parents for a long visit and have much to do, but only a short time to read and review this book.  and 3) I call it conviction, my daughter calls it "a really boring book judging by the title"..teenagers!. We all know that conviction can really make us want to hide and avoid things.

As I read this book I underlined and dog-earred many pages so that I can go back and reread those specific areas that I thought applied to me personally. These questions for example:  In spending money am I acting as if it is mine or God's?  What scripture passage requires me to spend in this was? Can I offer up this purchase as a sacrifice to God?  This book goes over many areas, he has split them into 6 sections with 22 total sub-sections. He covers subjects such as: ownership,  stewardship, materialism,  giving, wise handling of God's money( for he points out in this book that it IS all God's afterall.) and how to teach our children to handle money.

It is defintiely a good book and one that could be taught in classes at churches. There is no "soap boxing" or "brow beating" from Randy Alcorn and he backs everything up with scripture. I will reread this book again later this fall and then donate it to my church.

 Tyndale House Publishers has provided me a complimentary copy of this book and does not require a positive review.

The Final Summit: A Quest to Find the One Principle That Will Save Humanity by Andy Andrews

"Andrews combines a riveting narrative with astounding history in order to discover the one solution that will save humanity. Time is running out, and the final summit of Travelers must work quickly to avoid dire consequences." 

I thought this book sounded very interesting but it ended up being somewhat bland for me. The characters are likable and I enjoyed the history and the author's take on how the historical characters would react and respond in this story. It did make me curious about these historical figures and I may dig up some biographies and find out more about them.

David Ponder is asked one question in this story and he has to answer it correctly to save humanity. It is only a too word answer and many of the "answers" they mulled over were good ones but not exactly the right one. I did find myself trying to figure out what possible answer the archangel Gabriel and God may have been looking for. I felt the author's answer was almost too simplistic and maybe not what I would imagine God wanting. But who am I to know God's mind?

I did not find it as riveting as the book description made it out to be. If I hadn't been reading it to post a review I may have tossed it aside to read some other day, month or year even.  I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Posting on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ejamsmama?ref=ss_profile

Well I just finished putting my jewelry on Etsy and I have to say; listing all those pieces was tedious. I sure hope they sell. Or at least a few of them to compensate for the listing fee and time I put into listing them. I had a hard time coming up with the prices for each item. I wanted to be fair to myself and any potential buyers.

Then there was posting clear and accurate pictures. I realized, as I went to download the photos, that I had plenty of group photos of my stuff and not individual shots. My camera was only somewhat cooperative. The sun and shadows through the windows weren't helping either. Inside lighting was iffy.

I started yesterday afternoon and finished this morning. They will be posted for 4 months, so at least I won't have to do that over again for awhile. I will be sure to only list a few pieces at a time from now on. That way it's not brain overload trying to come up with clever titles and descriptions. I definitely flaked at the end and went with simple descriptions.

It's funny how you forget how to spell a word that you have spelled 20 times in the last hour. Your fingers sit above the keyboard awaiting the brain's instructions, which finger needs to type which letter first and you blank. I was wishing I had voice activated technology but the with as noisy as Megan gets sometimes I can only guess at what would be typed.....Silver mommy can  pink I get earrings milk. These are can I crystal go round outside beads....Yeah, it wouldn't be pretty.

As I looked at the recent postings in the jewelry section, it was mind boggling to see 10 to 20 new items pop up every 3 seconds. There are so many talented people out there, all posting similar items, hoping that theirs will be the one to sell. As I went through the listing, my last item posted was about 8 pages back. I had only put it on 15 minutes prior to getting on that page. Wow.

So I now place it in God's capable hands and will not fret about whether I sell or not. God will provide, He always has and always will. I am just thankful that I can do what I love and if God allows me to make money doing it, then I will be even more grateful to His wonderful grace.

Indelible by Kristen Heitzmann

After Trevor MacDaniel, a high country outfitter, rescues a toddler from the jaws of a mountain lion, he can't foresee the far-reaching consequences of his action, or how it will entwine his life with gifted sculptor, Natalie Reeve--and attract a grim admirer.

In a clash of light and darkness, can courage prevail?


I really enjoyed this book. I read it in 3 days because I just couldn't put it down. The descriptions the author used made me wish I could visit the town the story was set it. And I really would have loved to see the art that Natalie created. Being artistic I really enjoy other artists' works.

Kristen Heitzmann kept you guess as to what to "villian" in the story was really up to. This is the first of her books that I have read and now I am looking forward to finding and reading more of her work.

I enjoyed the way she put God in by having the characters pray or find a comforting bible verse. Also in having the characters realize how God works in their lives even through handicaps or devastating circumstances. It wasn't preachy but realistic.

I would definitely recommend this book to friends and family who are looking for a mystery written by a christian author.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

The Seraph Seal by Leonard Sweet and Lori Wagner

A tale of good and evil based on the four horsemen of the Apocalypse found in the book of Revelation.
Using the four horsemen of the Apocalypse to symbolize the four Gospels, four transcendentals, and four forces of the universe (air, water, earth, and fire), Sweet and Wagner weave a fast-paced, end-times tale of good vs. evil and the promise of a new dawn for humanity.
Set in 2048, when planet Earth is suffering from the damaging effects of years of misuse and abuse, cultural history professor Paul Binder receives a mysterious letter that leads him to examine a lost 2nd-century Diatessaron manuscript. Ancient prophecies, cryptic letters, and strange events set him on a course to uncover the missing clues that could lead humanity into a new age. Each character embodies elements of the four horsemen in a race to save the world from total destruction. Layered with forgotten symbolism from the ancient Jewish and Christian traditions, the book is a story in which the main character's journal serves as a guide to the reader in interpreting clues and understanding the  conclusion.

As I started to read this book I felt unsettled in my spirit and several scriptures kept popping into my mind. 
"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom." Isaiah 40:28   
"then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all their efforts to search it out, no one can discover its meaning. Even if the wise claim they know, they cannot really comprehend it." Ecclesiastes 8:17  
"For who knows a person's thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God." 1 Corinthians 2:11   
"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." Matthew 24:36 
"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." Mark 13:32
So, with those scriptures in mind I plugged through the book telling myself, "It is only fiction." Even though I felt that the author wanted us to believe that the end can be calculated and figured out through smart minds and coincidences. And that a human will bring about the 4 horsemen, also human, and not the Son of God. 
As a book of fiction it was an interesting story, although a bit confusing at times. It reminded me of the movies; The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons based on the books written by Dan Brown. I didn't read the books. I was hoping for something more like The Left Behind series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins.
One final thought and scripture, I believe with my whole heart that the Word of God is inspired and from God. It is whole and complete as it is. I do not believe that God would let parts of it go missing only to be found and added later. He is not careless. He would make sure that everything that He wanted passed down from generation to generation would be there from the beginning to the end. So to assume that, would be ridiculous. The author, through fiction, adds to John of Patmos' scroll. He also adds an extra chapter to Psalms. It makes for interesting fiction, but I sure hope that he does not intend for us to believe that there could be more out there.
Revelations 22:18-19 " I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll." 
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

my friend makes cards.....

Check out  http://marandaleecollection.weebly.com/index.html.

  This is a good friend of mine and she takes cool pics and makes them into pretty cards. She is just starting out and a % of her proceeds will go to charity. Good charities.

shampoo

Since April 9th I kept trying the baking soda wash and apple cider vinegar rinse. I tried different concentrations trying to get the waxiness out of my hair. I failed. Most of my hair felt clean and looked clean but next to my scalp it still felt waxy. Moving on to try something new.
I wanted to get something that is low on the toxic scale according to the Environmental Working Group. Check them out on cosmeticsdatabase.org.  Trying to stick with something on the 0 to 4 scale it seems limited. I can't find many of the products excepts online and most of them cost $6 or more. I will not justify spending that much on shampoo. So I am trying Garnier Fructis Pure Clean. They claim to be silicone free, sulfate free, and paraben free.
So what are these bad things you ask?  Long story short....silicones coat your hair to make it slippery, basically a lubricant that keeps out moisture but it doesn't keep any in either. Sulfates are harsh detergents that "clean" your hair of dirt and oils, including your hairs own natural oil and moisture so it dries out the hair too. Parabens are preservatives. They have salts(drying) and contain esters which many people thing add estrogen to the body and cause breast cancer. No link has been found but why take the chance, right?
It is not on the EWG website yet so I am not sure of it's "toxicity" but I am using it anyway. First impressions: love the smell, lid is a pain to open, and is cheap(less than $4 a bottle). So far I like it. My hair feels really clean even when I go to wash it the next day.
A little thing about my hair..it is oily(old age stinks) and the more I washed it with the other shampoos the oilier it seemed to get hence my "no poo" trial. I have to wash it everyday regardless of what I use. It is not as oily as it was prior to the "no poo" method and seems even less so with the Garnier Fructis Pure Clean.
When I say it feels clean even when I wash it the next day you probably thought then why are you washing it? Well I can chalk it up to paranoia. I am afraid that if I don't wash it then when I go somewhere that day I will look in a mirror and think oh no it's greasy. I will try to skip days but probably not until the fall or winter when I won't be sweating as much. Yes I am a lady and I sweat....buckets.
Also when I say it feels clean it's not a slippery slick feeling. It the feeling of a freshly washed plate under running water. It squeaks. Nice and clean. I do use the Pure Clean conditioner too but just a dime size on the ends. It doesn't make it feel slickery (I like that nonexistent word ) but soft and clean. Yes squeaky clean.
One other thing....I have been using this for about 3 weeks now and it hasn't gotten "old". You know how when you try a new poo it makes your hair pretty and silky and cooperative for the first 3 to 7 days and then blah. Well this has remained consistently the same the whole time. Another plus.
Well that's it for now. My next goal is to try a new recipe for lotions and lip balms. Oh and I made my self a mother's ring this morning in 15 minutes. And I didn't have to spend $60 or more for it. Check it out. TTFN (ta ta for now). How much did I spend? Maybe $5.
Ok for some reason the pic is not loading. i will try later today.

more pics....

pic with chain as per request:)

goldstone and smokey quartz

ok..lighting in my house stinks, i see now the main stone is purplish and not pale blue, so the sides don't match it.

another pic of the goldstone...trying to get the color and sparkle to show

Recent creations..

first try at wrapping a large stone

cute as a "button"(literally)

favorite 1

favorite2

I love that God has given me the talent to do this kind of stuff. I enjoy it so much.

making jewelry

I made 11 rings total so far and a few more other pieces. I will post pics later. But I am not the only one with a talent for making jewelry. Check out my sister's blogger site........
http://nearmisc.theclaybox.com/?p=786

3 more rings.....

Megan was fascinated with my rings, she is trying to get me to give them all to her.  :)
I recruited her help with the photos.

Making jewelry...

I am tickled pink. I just made my first wire wrapped ring. The yellow swarovski beads are a little pale, but still pretty and sparkly, even if I do say so myself.  :)  The images are a little blurry. It's hard to use my left hand to hold the camera and take a picture. I definitely will be making more. This was so much fun.

Live Loved by Max Lucado

I just finished reading this devotional book by Max Lucado. It is called Live Loved and it has 145 devotionals on experiencing the presence of God. In this book you get a daily reminder of God's love. These devotionals are little clips from the many books Max wrote. They include scriptures for you to dwell on throughout the day and a little prayer.

This book is small and would make a wonderful gift. It's also one that could be read over and over again. There is a few pages in the back of the book for you to put your own personal notes and thoughts. There is even a built in bookmark so that you won't lose your page. Which I do often, because my 3 year old loves to take my bookmarks out and replace them in another page.

There are 5 sections that the book is divided into. They are Loved with a .....Steadfast Love, Perfect Love,  Wise Love,  Merciful Love, and Loved to Love Others. I had so many favorites that I would not be able to list them all. But each is relevant to an area that I struggle in. I am sure that everyone would find a few that will touch their heart. It's all about learning and knowing that God is crazy for us and wants us to live as if we are loved by the greatest love in the world, because we are.

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness."    Lamentations 3:22-23

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Love at Last Sight by Kerry and Chris Shook

I just finished reading Love at Last Sight by Kerry and Chris Shook. It's about improving your relationships. It is meant to be read over 30 days, but I breezed through it for the sake of doing the review.
In this book the authors show us how everything we know about how relationships should work is wrong. We are taught by the world, and movies, and books, that everything is  based on initial attractions, and that if things fall apart, they aren't meant to be. The authors show us that in order to have the deep relationships we all long for, we have to work at it. It is not about changing the other person, but ourselves with God's help. It's about improving not only marriages, but familial relationships and close friendships.
They walk you through 30 days of being present in the moment, of acting intentionally, risking awareness, and learning to let go. You learn how to see the other person for who they are and to accept them and the changes we all go through. As we change, which we all do, we need to accept that the dynamics of a relationship will change too.
I initially got this to work on my marriage. Let's face it, most of us who are married wish that things were as they first were when we married the other person. With this book, I learned that as we change and events happen to us that the relationship will change too. Sometimes for the good and sometimes for the bad. It is up to us to make the change, either improve the relationship or chip away at it destructively.
I would definitely recommend this book to others. I think it would be a great book for pastors and churches to have to help those who are struggling in their relationships. As an added bonus, the authors have a web site you can log onto for advise or to just talk things out.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review”.

sick again...........

So, not much has been going on the last couple of weeks. I am reading two books to be reviewed when I am done. Those will be posted later. Megan is sick again. The third time for antibiotics in as many months. This time I also have to put eye drops in her infected eye. Which is real fun. No amount of bribes, threats or coercions work. If the neighbor's hear us screaming...well, no one has called children and youth services so far.
How do you convince a hard headed child that it would be quicker and done and over with if she didn't fight it? Her dad and I had to pin her down and pry open her eye and practically shove the eye dropper in between the eyelids just to get a drop in. And we have to do this every 4 hours? Not to mention I'll be on my own when he is at work. Good Grief!
I have been babysitting a little girl during the week so her mom can earn extra money to pay her bills. I can understand what that's like. She is on her own in this so I want to help her as much as I can. But when Meg is sick I worry that the little girl will get sick and pass it to her brother who goes to school with Meg. In all likelihood he already has whatever sickness anyway since it seems to be bred there.
I have been thinking about selling my beaded jewelry and will try to find time to check out the appropriate sites. To see if it's worth doing. I have also been thinking about making homemade detergent this month. My friend from "Near Miscellany" does and said it's very economical and not heavily scented with perfumes and chemicals. She suggested making my own soap too but after looking at a few sites I think that may be a little ambitious. You have to use lye and be VERY careful. Who knows I may get brave later this summer.
Well my child is moaning for me to come and attend to her so I must go. Ta Ta For Now.

Max on Life by Max Lucado

I am new to doing reviews and when I saw I had a chance to read Max Lucado's newest book "Max on Life" I was thrilled. I have to say that I am a Max Lucado fan and love his books and the way he presents his ideas of the ways of God in layman's terms without making you feel condescended to.

In this book he takes time to answer questions he has received over thirty years of ministry from concerned Christians, struggling Christians and new Christians. Questions of doubt, pain or just plain curiosity. Questions that I have struggled with myself. Questions such as: When I doubt God does He leave me?, Does God really forgive me?, Why does God heal some and not others?, What will happen on judgement day?. He answers these questions with scripture and insight that God has given to him.

They are separated into the seven sections in this book. They are grouped according to questions on God, calamities, prayer, relationships, families, work/money, and the hereafter. They are easy to understand answers that are very open and practical. They can be challenging and comforting. I found his answers were thoughts I had already had but just wasn't sure. There were a few that made me think "I never thought of that." Or "I wish I had that answer when someone asked me that same question."

This book kept me reading, just wondering how he would answer the next question. Some answers convicted me and some comforted me. The scriptures presented were comforting as well. They affirmed what he was saying. I would definitely recommend this book to others. For those who have questions about God. For those with unsaved friends and family who don't know how to answer the questions posed to them.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.

Breath of Angel by Karyn Henley

I just finished reading "Breath of Angel" by Karyn Henley and I have to say I loved it.

This book is about a young priestess, Melaia, who witnesses a murder of a stranger in the temple courtyard by a hawk who later turns into a man. The stranger turns out to be an angel, which she had always thought were myths and stories until now.

Melaia finds herself in the middle of a blood feud between two immortal brothers who destroyed the stairway to heaven, stranding angels here on earth. She becomes a target as things escalate.

She hides with a band of angels who are attempting to restore the stairway. But Melaia soon finds out that that the restoration is impossible without the repayment of an ancient debt. One that calls for the "breath of angel, blood of man" and one that involves her heart, soul and destiny.

I read this book in about 15 hours. I could not put it down. I enjoyed meeting the characters and trying to figure out which ones were trustworthy or not. The author was descriptive without over doing it. I was able to imagine the places and people very well. I cannot wait for the next book. This is book one of The Angeleon Circle.

I received this book for review from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers and was not required to write a positive review.

Well after trying natural stuff for 8 days I have to say I am not totally impressed.
The deodorant works fine as long as I am not sweating, then it gets a bad odor like cat urine. GROSS! And since summer is coming and I am wanting to walk for exercise, I will be sweating more. So I am back to my avon and suave for now.
The lotion/lip balm bar still smells wonderful to me but it is sticky and greasy at the same time. As a lip balm that's not a big deal but I leave greasy prints everywhere when I have it on my hands. Plus it doesn't keep them moist. But I will use it for lip balm.
The baking soda shampoo and apple cider rinse stuff is doing good for my hair so I may keep that up for now. Plus it is so cheap. I guess I will try other options soon for lotion and deodorant.
I finally got the pics for the jewelry I made. Check them out. Well that's all for now.

busy busy busy...

So in the last few days I have been very productive. I made 2 necklaces, 3 bracelets, 1 watch, and 2 pairs of earrings. Adding to my collection of 9 other pieces.
I made a batch of homemade deodorant and homemade lip balm/ lotion bars. I am soo excited. I do have pictures and I promise to get them up soon. It was so simple. I just used a 1:1:1 ratio of coco butter, beeswax and coconut oil.( I started with small bits...1oz each) I I had previously bought the coconut oil to make homemade deodorant which failed but I am trying again now that I did more research.
See it melted all over in the bathroom because coconut oil has a low melting point. 76 degrees. One lady keeps her in her fridge when the temps go up. So I am trying again. Bobby has been using the powdered version off and on and it works good for him when he uses it. He gets rashes from all the other kinds. All that is in it is 1/4c baking soda(less if your skin is sensitive) 1/4 c cornstarch and 10 - 20 drops of teatree oil. Put in a sock and dust it on.(that's what I use they suggest a powder puff container) to make a stick kind add 2tbs+ of coconut oil until its the consistency you want. Pack it into an old deodorant container or small wide mouth jar.
I also tried a baking soda rinse and apple cider vinegar rinse for a natural shampoo and conditioner. My hair is overly oily and there apparently will be a transition period while it stops it's overproduction of oil caused by shampoos. So I tried a citrus rinse for the waxy feeling as suggested by one lady(CoolKarmaVideo) who has videos on you tube about going no "poo" as it is called. But I still think my hair needs to adjust. I'll let you know how it goes. I'm gonna give it at least two weeks.
After I squeezed the two lemons of as much juice as I could manage, I felt like it was a waste to throw them away. So I stuck them in a glass put in some warm water and a packet of stevia in the raw and let it sit in the fridge until I was ready to drink it. YUM! It is really good lemonade.
I have to say this all natural stuff is fun. Now if can only get myself to natural eating. LOL Here are some links to check out if you want and they have links to follow also.

http://babyslime.livejournal.com/174054.html

http://www.keeperofthehome.org/2011/03/making-homemade-hard-lotion-with-a-diy-lotion-and-lip-balm-kit.html      ( she uses a ready mad DIY kit but I just copied the ingredients from the site she bought it from.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HciNySjusNE&feature=related  


http://littlehouseinthesuburbs.com/2009/03/quick-stick-deodorant.html


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWunjWkdLFo&feature=related   (she is funny, I picked this but you could check out all from day one)


thats just a few that I checked out. I did google searches and like I said I checked out the links from the links I provided. TTFN (ta ta for now)

I haven't been doing much of anything lately. I just had the computer worked on so that I can access a few sites it wouldn't let me see. Like my friend Heather's art gallery. Really neat. Check it out, there is a link to it on the left. Sundapplednest.blogspot.com  Plus I found out that the internet that Emily likes to use, Mozilla Firefox, is actually better to use than IE because not many use it yet and viruses are rare.
I have been making more jewelry items, I have pics but I have to get a usb cable for the camera to upload them. I love making stuff like that. Jewelry is fun.
Talked to my grandpa who lives in CA.  He, my parents and my aunt and cousin were all in New Mexico this past weekend for a reunion of WW 2 Bataan Death March POW vets. Wow thats a mouthful. He did a few interviews but only one was recorded can't wait to see it. He is planning to attend a reunion in Pittsburgh in June so I will go out to visit with him then. Can't wait!
Started in a FB bible study group based on the book Made to Crave by Lysa Terkeurst. That was neat. First of all, the book so far is good. We were to read one chapter a week but it's hard to put down and I know I'm not the only one so we agreed to discuss one chapter each week and to encourage each other.
Secondly, it was nice to know I am not the only one struggling with cravings and realizing that I need to crave God more. Praying that He will help me through this as I grow closer to Him.
Cleaned the church on saturday with my oldest daughter's help. She is such a good girl. She complains about chores and how we overwork her, then I'll break out into a rousing version of ....Cinderelly, Cinderelly night and day it's Cinderelly. fix the fire, make the breakfast, wash the dishes, do the mopping, and the sweeping and the dusting, they always keep her hopping, she goes around in circles till she's very, very dizzy, still they holler keep a-busy, cinderelly.  To which she replies, "that's right all I am is a slave to you". I always tell her that's why we have kids. :)
I have also been trying to plan a highschool class reunion with all 8 of my classmates. That's right, we were the second largest class by 1989. Woohoo!! We got a date down and a picnic in the works. Most of us are on FB so we keep in contact that way. Sad thing is it took us 6 years to get back in touch with each other. But that happens esp when you have families to take care of.
That  is all for now. I need to have something to say next time.  :)

God is faithful....

So somedays I can hear satan telling me that I am worthless. I imagine I am not the only one. Just take a look at the world, take a look at your neighbor, take a look in the mirror.  What do you see? Misery? Greed? Hopelessness? If so you're hearing satan.
God sees lost people in need of a saviour. People who can't see Him because satan has convinced them there is nothing but hopelessness. They can't see the beauty around them. They can't see His faithfulness. Today in my Bible devotions they suggested taking a piece of paper and write "God is Faithful" at the top and list all the ways He has been faithful to us, don't forget to look in the bible for examples. They are there to remind us of His faithfulness.... a woman gets pregnant at 90, the Red Sea splits in two, the walls of Jericho fall, God protects David, He sends a way(Jesus) for us to cross a great divide to Him, don't stop till the page is full. Then praise Him for His faithfulness. I know by the time I was done I had so much joy in my heart.  Know His faithfulness is great to us and feel joy.

I'm trying to figure this thing out...

So I guess I am somewhat blogger challenged I am tryinh to figure out how to post my friend's blog link on my page and I have tried a dozen times. So in the meantime here is the link until I get it on my page.  http://nearmisc.theclaybox.com/
Check her out she dabbles in homemade stuff too and she's funny.

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So here I go......

Ok so I have decided to give blogging a try. I don't know how long I'll keep it up or who will read it. But here goes..I am a mom of four kids ranging in age 3 to 17. I have one starting pre school and one getting ready to graduate.
Right now my three older ones live with their dad a few minutes from me. Emily, Jacob and Amber are 17, 12 & 11. Megan is 3, as if you didn't guess that already. She lives with her dad and me 20 miles from Hershey, PA. (Which is dangerous to someone struggling with a sugar addiction.)
I am turning 40 this year and I am starting to feel it. I am struggling to do something about my health and diet quickly since I can't turn back the hands of time. I'd rather not get to 60 or 70 and struggle to walk or move period. I want to continue to feel younger than my actual age as I have in the past and to do that changes need to be made.
I dabble in jewelry making. I am trying my hand at natural and cheap products such as homemade deoderant and such. So far I have only made the deoderant which my husband uses alot since he has reactions to all store bought ones. I like it sometimes but it doesn't always help me. Maybe I need a new recipe.
Well that's good for a start. I f I want to keep this up for long I can't reveal all of me at once. :)