Mrs. V.'s Place

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-06T05:01:00.001-06:00

Another new year. A new beginning. A chance to begin anew. A "do over"!

As the new year has began, everyone makes their resolutions, hoping to make these last the entire year. Some go strongly toward their resolves and tire very easily. Some take it "one day at a time" and get through half the year at least. And then go I... I do not make resolutions, but goals. I try to choose a "doable" number of these goals, make them attainable and write them down.
My 2012 Goals are:
1. Continue my journey of weight loss. I have set a goal of losing 50 additional pounds by Jan. 1, 2013.
2. Read my Bible daily. I am also taking on the challenge of reading through the Bible this year. I hope to gain more wisdom and strength in God's word.
3. Exercise every day. That might be my regular walking, or I would like to add warm water exercise to help with the Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain.
Three goals, all attainable, written down for all to see. Some days I may "mess up", but I get right back on schedule the next day. I think some of us are so unforgiving of ourselves, that we tend to QUIT if things don't go as we planned. Quitting will only get you one thing - Failure to accomplish your goals. If you fall down a day or two, no big deal! Pick yourself up, ask God to help you in your journey, and start again. We get a "do over" every morning we wake up. It's like God is saying "Here is my gift to you".
As you probably noticed, my word for the year is PERSEVERANCE. I love this word. It is a strong word, yet gentle. It does not sound like someone yelling KEEP GOING!! I is a simple request - Persevere! Do not give up. Push through your anxiety, your fear, your pain. Distance yourself from people that do not believe in and support you. Just keep on fighting the good fight, because your reward will be imminent.
I hope to blog more this year and add more pictures to my blog. I also hope you will help me increase my followers by recommending my blog to your friends. Of Course, I love comments and would love to make many more friends throughout this new year of change in all our lives.
My God richly bless each of you and please, Y'all Come Back Soon!!

Blessings,
Donna

Smitten By: Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt & Denise Hunter

2011-12-20T08:56:00.000-06:00

Smitten is a collection of 4 stories by 4 different authors that all take place in the same place, Smitten, Vermont. Four friends try to help this small town come back from a devastation to their economy. These friends endeavor to have their town become the most romantic town in America. Getting the men of the town involved in this scheme takes a lot of work and maybe a little manipulation. I enjoyed how all the stories were connected, so that you felt like you were reading an entire novel! You also have a chance to get "a taste" of 4 different authors in 1 book and if you like what you read you can search for their other writings.

The Christmas Singing By: Cindy Woodsmall

2011-12-20T07:27:00.002-06:00

I have ready many books by Cindy Woodsmall, a New York Times best-selling author of When the Soul Mends. This book, The Christmas Singing, does not disappoint Cindy's many fans.
The book is a story of Mattie and Gideon and a love that began as young love, yet had a shocking ending for Mattie. An ending that she did not understand and that causes Mattie to leave her home, begin a business, and find a new beau. But, after a tragedy occurs, Mattie is forced to return home. She hopes it will only be temporary, but circumstances change and the truth of Gideon's rejection comes to light.
Read this inspiring story as a Christmas gift to yourself! Please watch the video posted below.

And also, please read the first chapter by following this link. Enjoy!
The Christmas Singing (Chapter 1 Excerpt)
http://www.scribd.com/fullscreen/69473983?access_key=key-rgtk38e2713pbbb4tc2

Free Life Application Bible Study – Book of Luke

2011-12-08T11:58:00.000-06:00

Free Life Application Bible Study – Book of Luke

Hospitality: What Matters

2011-11-22T15:16:00.001-06:00

What does hospitality mean to you? To me and my family it is welcoming friends and family around the table to share fellowship. It also means making everyone feel "at home" as we say in the south.
The kitchen is the heart of most homes. For some reason, people start out in the family room or den, but end up in the kitchen! The warm feelings, the smells of fresh baked goodies, and remembrances of seeing our mamas taking care of us are all things that bring us together in the kitchen.
I received this beautiful apron and will be wearing it for our Thanksgiving meal. I loved the beautiful words embroidered on the top. It is very well made and looks as if it would wear well for years to come.

Courageous

2011-11-22T13:32:00.000-06:00

A group of police officers, fatherhood, and a terrible tragedy causes a “Resolution”. As these courageous men go about their responsibilities, the families sometimes suffer. Worries about finances, conflicts within families, and time management cause these fathers to not be as committed as they should be to their children and their Christian upbringing.
After one father experiences the greatest lost possible, lives begin to change. Follow the story of these men, their families, and the final resolution that changes everyone’s life and is spreading throughout the land.
This is a book worth reading and a movie worth seeing. If you cherish your family-you will be blessed.

A Simple Amish Christmas

2011-11-22T11:26:00.000-06:00

Annie Weaver felt she was not a good fit for the Amish community into which she was born. After losing several jobs, her parents decide she may need a break. So, they sent her to the city to live with her aunt. Having always had a great interest in taking care of people and healing, she pursues her education and earns her RN degree.
While in Philadelphia, she gets an emergency call from home and immediately leaves the life she has known for 3 years to help her family. Annie’s father was involved in an accident and needs round the clock care.
She meets Samuel, who is not a doctor, although he tends to the Amish as best he can. Samuel is somewhat taken aback by Annie’s expertise. As Annie and Samuel continue to work together feelings begin to build.
A difficult romance begins and First Christmas will never be the same for Annie and Samuel.
This is an excellent book. This was one I had trouble putting down for very long!

Living Close to God (When You're Not Good At It) By: Gene Edwards

2011-11-07T20:59:00.001-06:00

Before reading this book I thought doing my best to serve God would help me get closer to God. I set a quiet time each morning and ended my day praising Him and praying. Little did I know what I would learn from this book. You will not look at the 23rd Psalm the same after reading Mr. Edwards book.
The titles of some sections tell it all; The Simplicity of God, Heaven Speaks in First Person, and Out into the Grind are just a few of the sections that really spoke to me and my life.

The Baker's Wife By: Erin Healy

2011-11-07T20:56:00.000-06:00

Who knew baking bread for strangers would end like this?
Audrey goes from a pastor's wife to a baker's wife because of a terrible lie that hurts everyone and causes unimaginable consequences.
The descriptions of the characters and the town are exceptional. The pace of the story is just right and keeps you wanting more. This was not a "preachy" Christian book, but subtle and believable.
I will definitely read more Erin Healy!

In God's Heart

2011-09-13T21:25:00.000-05:00

I was asked to review the 2012 calendar by Holley Gerth called God's Heart For You: A Year Embracing Your True Worth
This is such a beautiful calendar with scripture and great inspirations for each month. The scripture for my birth month, August, is "Your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 NIV This verse made me think of how we, as women today, feel about ourselves. We seem to beat ourselves up for bad hair days, feeling bloated days,etc when we need to celebrate how wonderful the Lord has made us! God does NOT make junk!
In God's Heart I feel blessed, loved, cared for, and protected. God's heart is open for everyone. He loves us at the place we are, not the place we think we need to be. He loves us with a strength and purity that we have never known.
As we re-dedicate our lives at the beginning of each year, this calendar will give us the encouragement and beauty that we need to go through each day of the new year!!

Mercy Come Morning By: Lisa Tawn Bergren

2011-09-12T12:15:00.000-05:00

Krista Mueller thought her life had finally come together-she had a career she loved, and was far away from the mother for which she was never good enough. Little did she know how much her life was about to do a complete change.
Charlotte, Krista’s mother, has had Alzheimer’s for over 10 years and is now dying of heart failure. Krista rushes to her mother’s side with lots of feelings from the past.
As time passes Krista discovers secrets that will finally give her heart and life closure.

Sweet Sanctuary By: Shelia Walsh and Cindy Coloma

2011-09-12T12:13:00.002-05:00

All Wren wanted to do was raise her son Charlie and give him all the opportunities possible. Charlie’s dad was not in the picture, as they had divorced when Charlie was a baby, and they had not heard from him since Charlie was a toddler.
Wren worked at the local library and loved her job. She enjoyed the people and of course the books. She was hoping to increase her hours and work on special projects. She had to get the money for Charlie to attend a very prestigious music school.
When Gran comes for a surprise visit, old memories come back to complicate Wren and Charlie’s life. Will old family secrets come to light and let healing begin??? Read this amazing book to find out!

Restless in Carolina By:Tamara Leigh

2011-08-11T06:11:00.000-05:00

Bridget Pickwick-Buchannan is a member of “The Pickwick’s” of Pickwick, North Carolina. This is both a blessing and a curse!!
Bridget is definitely a “green” citizen. She loves animals, and all things natural. Unfortunately, Bridget’s life has not been easy. A widow at thirty-two, she is still having difficulty accepting her husband’s untimely death four years ago. Her next major difficulty is finding a buyer for her family’s estate to an eco-friendly developer. Meeting developer J.C. Dirk from Atlanta, her prayers seem to be answered…or are they?
Things become heated and complicated as secrets are revealed. Will this man finally be the answer to both of Bridget’s problems?
Read this novel by Tamara Leigh to find out!

Stumbling into Grace - Confessions of a sometimes spiritually clumsy woman By: Lisa Harper

2011-08-11T05:50:00.000-05:00

Lisa Harper is one of the most “real” authors I have ever read. She writes from personal experience, her heart, and doesn’t mind to get intimate with readers about her own life. She has an excellent understanding of scriptures and writes in such a way that even the most “young in Christ” can understand, learn scripture and apply it to our own lives.
This book is almost like you are reading part of Lisa’s personal diary, but the difference to most diaries is that this one is backed up by scripture, prayers, reflections questions, and even journal prompts that brings one to think deeper into the truth and understanding that the Lord shows to each of us in our lives.
I cried, I laughed, I prayed, and I truly felt God’s Spirit as I read each chapter. With chapter names like: “Ewe Scared?”, “Take a Load Off”, “Liar, Liar! Pants on Fire!”. This is NOT your parent’s devotional!
Lisa Harper, you are blessed girlfriend! Please keep writing and praying for God’s wisdom in your words. We have got to meet and have lunch at Puckett’s! I need a girlfriend with whom I can talk and share!

A Place Called Blessing By: John Trent

2011-07-25T20:20:00.001-05:00

I have read many great Christian books throughout my life, but this book touched me like no other. Being a retired teacher with a heart for any child, especially those having difficulties in life, I was immediately taken by the story of these 3 young boys. As I got more into the book, I saw many children that had sat in my classroom throughout my 25 years of teaching. These dear children are so hungry for any attention and so eager to please.
In this story the life of the youngest of the 3 boys is told. This young man overcomes and thrives as he struggles throughout his life. He is blessed to meet a mother and son who help him change his life. Josh does come to a place called blessing and you will be greatly blessed by reading this book. You will cry and cheer during the reading of this book. I strongly recommend this book. My wish is that in all the students that I had the honor of teaching that I was a small blessing in their lives - because they were certainly a large blessing to me!

When Sparrows Fall By: Meg Moseley

2011-07-03T11:51:00.000-05:00

Miranda is a a woman filled with guilt, fear, and a loss of who she really is. Her life has not been an easy one and becomes increasingly more complicated. As a follower of Mason Chandler's strict church, she is not allowed to think for herself. When her husband died, Mason took over being the ruler of Miranda as Carl had been. While fasting to try to find answers about following Mason's church, Miranda falls off the cliffs at her home and ends up badly hurt in the hospital.
Who will take care of her six children at home? She had no family - except Jack - Carl's half brother. Jack moves in and takes on a household of 6 well-behaved, yet very protected children. As their mother mends, the children have new experiences with Uncle Jack.
Finally, Miranda returns home and the secrets she has been hiding for all those years comes to light. Jack helps Miranda and the children learn to trust and love again.
A wonderful read that I highly recommend!

Friends

2011-06-26T20:08:00.000-05:00

Recently, I got a chance to meet a blog friend for the first time. Cyndi and I had exchanged many emails and even talked on the phone, but had not met in person. I was so excited to finally meet her. She was as precious and real as she was in her emails! I had a wonderful lunch with her and hope we can meet again for a "spa" day!
I thought of Michael W. Smith's song "Friends" when we met. I love the line that goes "And friends are friends forever If the Lord's the Lord of them". Cyndi shines with the love of Jesus! You can see it in the pic that we took together that day!

The Promise of an Angel Ruth Reid

2011-06-26T14:53:00.001-05:00

Judith had always been a faithful daughter - obedient to her parents and seeking God's favor, but her life takes a drastic turn when an accident leaves her 5 year old brother, Samuel, paralyzed. Stricken with guilt over not watching him close enough during the barn raising, she sees an angel who assures her Samuel will walk again. This revelation however, makes her Amish community think she is making up stories like she tells to the young children to keep them entertained.
Andrew, the Bishop's son, is the only one who believes in Judith, and as the story continues all of Judith's (and Andrew's) dreams come true.
A story of real hope, forgiveness, and faith. A MUST read!

Max on Life By: Max Lucado

2011-05-18T20:16:00.000-05:00

Have questions? Max has answers!! This book has various sections that will answer some of Life's most important and difficult questions.
Of course, like all of Max's books, he writes from the heart-from scripture, and from personal experiences. I especially enjoyed the Topical Index in the back of the book that lets you look up any number of subjects from abortion to worship. He also includes a Scripture Index which I found extremely useful in my Bible Study time.

Max is truly a "Man of God" and is blessed with his ability to help so many. He has really blessed my life!

Departures - Two Rediscovered stories by Robin Jones Gunn

2011-05-18T20:10:00.002-05:00

Now Boarding at Gate 10

Christy Miller has a full and seemingly happy life in California, but when she returns to Wisconsin to visit relatives she begins to question her relationships. After much soul searching; she realizes her future will be just what God has planned.

In the Event of a Water Landing

Sierra Jensen thought she was spending a relaxing summer vacation with her best friend Jana, at the Lake, but soon relizes that Jana has more on her mind than summer vacation!! Will Jana and Sierra's friendship survive boys??

This is a good Young Adult read - Teenage girls will enjoy both stories, but my favorite was the first one.

Review for Tin Cross from DaySpring

2011-05-18T19:15:00.006-05:00

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. NIV Psalm118:24

I remember a song based on this scripture that we use to sing at VBS and that I still sing to this day, especially when I wake up joyful and "filled with the spirit!"

This is the theme for the DaySpring site for May.

I signed up with-(in)courage/DaySpring to review products. One of my favorite things to do is review. I give my honest, heartfelt opinion of the items/books that I am sent. I was very happy with this Tin Cross. It is a beautiful piece of art that will enhance any decor. It looks expensive, but is very affordable.

As you can see, I have mine on my bedroom wall beside my word art "Amazing Grace...how sweet the sound." It made a beautiful addition to the wall. When I wake up every morining, I am reminded of the great sacrifice our Lord made on that cross and I say to myself, THIS IS THE DAY THE LORD HAS MADE...
God Bless You All!! :)

I almost forgot that I will be giving away a $20.00 gift certificate from DaySpring. Please leave a comment along with your email. This giveaway will end on June 1at! I hope everyone will enter!

Christian Mothers

2011-05-04T17:04:00.000-05:00

The picture you see here is my dear mama, Willie Hillis. She was a real Christian Mother in every sense of the word. She was my inspiration for becoming a teacher and the reason I love reading so much. Even though she only finished 8th grade, she encouraged me and did everything in her power to ensure I had the best education. I wish she had been here to see me earn my Masters and go on to be Principal and eventually retire from my 25 years in education. I know she was with me in spirit and still is each day.
The greatest gift we can give our children is being a Christian parent. We teach our children, but we must also be an example for them. I have tried in my life to do this for both my boys and have prayed for them daily. Of course, I had the best example in the world guiding me! :)
If you still have your parents, please do not take them for granted. Hug them just a little harder this year on Mother's Day and Father's Day, because they are a precious part of life!

The Bridge of Peace

2011-03-29T14:04:00.000-05:00

This is another great book from Cindy Woodsmall. This lady is an amazing writer!
This book will draw you into the lives of several different characters and story lines that can develop into books on their own. The main characters are Lena,the Amish schoolteacher,who has had to suffer the pain of a birthmark since childhood. The other main character is Grey, school board member and childhood friend of Lena and her brother Allen. The book revolves around these two characters, but other interesting characters and their lives are also included in this book.
Will Lena ever have the life she wants and deserves? Will Grey forgive himself for all the guilt he feels?
This is a Must Read-I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Free Books Giveaway

2011-03-28T20:50:00.002-05:00

You have got to begin following the blog http://awornpath.blogspot.com!!
Joanna is giving away a free book each week. These are books that are favorites
of hers. She does an awesome job of reviewing books. She teaches middle school English
and was my son's high school English teacher. He loved her class and always said she
made the class fun and interesting.
I hope everyone enters this giveaway-like I say "you can never have enough books!"
Happy Reading!

Lilly's Wedding Quilt By: Kelly Long

2011-03-22T10:19:00.000-05:00

As you can probably tell from my many review posts, I enjoy reading Amish life-style fiction.
Lilly Lapp loved teaching the Amish children of her community-yet something was missing to make her lonely life complete.
When Lilly's father passes away of cancer, Lily was left with the task of taking care of her depressed mother. This was not easy for Lilly and she worried constantly.
While going to the wedding of the man who was now the vet for the community, she stops at a barn to wait out the icy rain storm and this changes her life. Inside the barn she is surprised to see Jacob Wyse-a young man that Lilly had a crush on since she was a student herself!
As the story progresses Lilly and Jacob marry, but in name only. It takes awhile and many twists and turns, but they finally have the marriage they both dreamed.

Life, In Spite of Me By: Kristen Jane Anderson

2011-03-14T20:03:00.002-05:00

This is a wonderful book filled with tragedy and triumph! Kristen grew up in a good home, but as tragedy filled her young life quicker than she could deal with it, she falls into a deep depression.
After the deaths of three friends and her grandmother, within two years, she feels overwhelmed and defeated. Feelings finally get to the point of "no return", when as a last straw, she is raped by a trusted friend.
Not really thinking about the long-term consequences-just wanting the pain to go away-she lays on a railroad track and waits. A frieght train with thirty-three freight cars attached runs over her. Surprisingly, she lives but loses her legs.
This is her personal story of survival from the deepest, darkest depression to finding the light, hope, and salvation of the Lord.
Kristen has a wonderful ministry and is helping thousands of people every day!

Seek Me With All Your Heart By: Beth Wiseman

2011-02-28T20:42:00.002-06:00

This book will truly touch your heart - renew your faith - and lift your spirits! Sometimes, we read books that we hate to see come to an end - this is that type of book. I did not want this book to end, yet I couldn't wait to read what was going to happen next!
The story begins with an introduction to put main character Emily, a young Amish woman that must endure a terrible secret that seems to rule her life. During the story we meet other members of Emily's family and the fact that this tradegy has an effect on everyone.
Another Amish family, the Stolzfus', are also running from a misfortunate incident involving their son David. David meets Emily and is surprised, yet intrigued by this young woman who is so afraid of life.
Other lives and their stories run throughout the book. We meet the uncle and aunt of David who have troubles of their own. We meet an unusual Englisch woman, Martha, whom Emily's family has befriended, her 19 year old parrot Elvis, and a Christian, Englisch carpentar Arnold Becker. He helps the families with the building of the Amish school, and enhances Martha's life.
I would highly recommend this book and am excited for the next novel in this series. We will continue with the story of David's Aunt Katie Ann and of course the wonderful Martha!

Plain Wisdom. By: Cindy Woodsmall & Miriam Flaud

2011-02-25T22:01:00.001-06:00

I think the title Plain Wisdom is an underestimate of the immense knowledge and spritual revelations of these two blessed women who write this extraordinary book.
The book introduces two friends from worlds apart - one Old Order Amish, the other an Englischer. As we travel through their friendship, we get an insight into how much their lives are different-yet alike. We have the opportunity to meet their families, learn their secrets, share in the shear endurance during bad times and rejoice in the heart warming joy! Another outstanding feature of this book - Recipes!! If you are like me, you are always looking for items to add to you daily meal plans. The recipes are simple and have easily accessible ingredients. I have always enjoyed Amish recipes. Their simplicity, comfort, and flavor are unbeatable! A favorite of my family is the Chicken Spaghetti. I can't wait to try the Overnight Blueberry French Toast!! I would definitely recommend this book to everyone. Hey, how many times do you get two great books in one??!!

Who is My Shelter? By: Neta Jackson

2011-02-16T10:44:00.001-06:00

First, I must say I am a HUGE fan of The YadaYada Prayer Group and House of Hope Series. I have read every book and cannot wait for the next book to be published!
Neta has the most amazing characters in all her books. The characters are so alive and realistic. They are the type you cate about and root for!!
In this particular book, Gabby continue the struggle of trying to put her life back together after being mugged, homeless, and not having her son's with her. She is a spunky,God-Loving woman that will not give up.
When the tables are turned and her husband's secret gambling life is discovered-Gabby's life is turned upside down again!
Basing her life on "The Rock" and finding "Her Shelter from Life's Storms" Gabby survives and thrives more than she thought possible!
Definitely one of her best works-I always hate to see Neta's books end and this one I wanted the story to keep on going.

The Shelter of God's Promises

2011-02-01T15:21:00.000-06:00

What do we all look for on a cold winter's night, or a stormy, rainy spring night? SHELTER In Sheila Walsh's book, The Shelter of God's Promises, she illustrates the power of God and His infinite power of being our very present shelter from life's storms.

I love the fact that throughout the book - we not only have personal stories of Mrs. Walsh's life, but also scriptural representations of the "shelters of life". One of the main points that is stressed throughout the book - God is always here!

I would highly recommend this book to everyone. It is such a heart warming book that is so timely in all our lives.

Unto the Hills A Daily Devotional By: Billy Graham

2011-01-12T14:49:00.000-06:00

To be able to start each day in God's word is glorious - add in this great man of God and his insight is simply priceless. This is the best daily devotional I have ever read. It gives scripture - a lesson/real life experience, and a beautiful prayer.
I do not think anyone will be dispointed reading this in the New Year. It has greatly helped me in keeping my daily quiet time meaningful. You must get this one - it WILL change your life.

Let's Do Lunch

2010-12-16T17:30:00.000-06:00

You'll be amazed and encouraged by this book, the stories told, and the entire process the author uses to lose weight. The book also includes recipes to help with your daily menus.
I do suggest reading the chapters 3 times as the author suggested. I did this and each time I discovered new information that I had not noticed the first time.
I give this book 5 stars. A must-read if you struggle with your weight. This will inspire you to start your journey of good health!

My Journey (August 2009-December 8, 2010

2010-12-09T21:20:00.003-06:00

Well, I know it has been a while since I have posted. My life is going through a world of changes! Some changes have been great, yet others have broken my heart.
First, I started my journey to lose weight and feel better on August 6, 2009. I went to the Metabolic Surgery Center at Baptist Hospital, completed paperwork for insurance approval, and started "jumping through the hoops" that unfortunately insurance companies make people do. Finally on September 30, 2010 I had Lap Band surgery and a hernia repair. Believe me the first month was horrific (is that a word??). If someone had asked me "would you do this again," I'd say "NO WAY!!" My situation was different - I was a very sick and I think dying individual. My health issues were: type 2 diabetes (insulin dependent - 4 shots per day!), hypertension, sleep apena, coronary artery disease, high cholesterol, migraine headaches, and fibromyaliga. WOW, it's a miracle I'm here and writing this!
Back to the recovery... After the soreness, an overfill being fixed, and pain finally leaving me, I really felt like a different person. The weight seemed to just be coming off, I was not hungry nor craving the foods that helped me get this way, and I could actually feel myself "liking" who I was becoming.
I went to the doctor for my last appointment for 2010 and since starting the process in August, I have lost 65 pounds! Praise the Lord! I could not have done this had it not been for the grace, love, and strength given to me by my Lord. My goal is 40 more pounds. This is a goal I set before I had the surgery, but I do want to continue to lose more and then maintain. I KNOW I can do it, because when I feel like eating I always think back to how bad I felt before the 65 pounds. Dr. Morton, (the doctor who did the surgery) told me to go in the grocery store and pick up the biggest bag of dog food closest to the weight I lost and walk around the store. Since I had 2 back surgeries, I could not do that - I couldn't even begin to lift that weight - yet I had that on my body!!
That was my great change, now to the heart breaking change.
My husband of soon to be 25 years (January 24, 2011) has had open heart surgery (2 bypasses)on September 1, and a light stroke on Thanksgiving day. He is doing better, but I still worry every day about his health. He's not big on communicating and sharing, so I worry he is keeping everything inside. I try to take care of him and just pray each night Jesus will keep him alive. We have 2 teenage boys who still need us to be here for them.
Our family is struggling right now. Even though I had the surgery and am losing weight, I'm still having medical problems. Now, my fibromyaliga is the biggest obstacle in my life. I have had to stop teaching for right now, because I was simply not able to move around, bend, stand, and even my mind was getting involved in the "fibro fog." I always said that when I could no longer be the teacher I wanted to be, I would step down. I will not let the children I love and care about so much suffer because of my disability. I miss being in education more than anyone will ever know, but as I have always said "we must look at what we have, not what we do not."
As I look at the events of my life since August, I think of the wonderful quote "what does not kill us, makes us stronger." I am strong - I have found this out by going through these events.
I pray all will have a Blessed Christmas and a Very Happy New Year!! God Bless Us ALL!

Jane Austen

2010-08-04T16:40:00.000-05:00

This review is for the book Jane Austen by Peter Leithart. I have always read biographies throughout my life because I feel like you learn a lot about life through the lives of others. I have always enjoyed living vicariously by reading about others.

The family of Jane Austen was a lively and spirited family. They were a deeply religious and caring bunch. Jane enjoyed a comfortable life with her many interests, yet died at such a young age.

If you enjoy biographies, you will enjoy this book. It is well worth the "read".

Plain Pursuit - Book Review

2010-02-15T18:26:00.004-06:00

I think no matter what our religious beliefs, we all have envisioned a simpler life as the Amish live. Carley is feeling a real discontient with life in general as she much face some difficult truths. When a visit to a friend, who has joined the Amish lifestyle,Carley's life goes through many changes. ...which help Carley find the "truth" and happiness that she has been desperatley seeking. Lillian and her family find Carley's visit a real Godsend, when a medical emergency strikes the family and secrets are uncovered. An awesome book and story of hope, forgiveness, and love.

What Difference Do It Make - Book Review

2010-01-12T14:41:00.001-06:00

When I first picked up this book, I didn't know what to expect. The title was somewhat awkward and the cover photo was elusive. They say don't judge a book by its cover and that is very true of this book. As I began my journey, I could not turn back. This book brought homelessness and poverty to a new level in my way of thinking. This book will challenge you to action. You can find Jesus anywhere - even in a homeless man. Read this with an open heart and a prayful soul. You will NEVER look at people the same.

I am a reviewer for Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program.

Daily Audio Bible

2010-01-09T18:05:00.000-06:00

Daily Audio Bible

Friends

2009-09-07T21:32:00.001-05:00

I have been having a difficult time and just realized how much friends matter in one's life. I have a friend that I have had many, many years. She is such a faithful friend and seems to always know when I need her. She is a beautiful soul inside and out. She keeps in touch even when I seem to drift away. I appreciate her more than she will ever know. I hope everyone has a friend as real as she. She is GOLD! Love ya Jane Ann!

Blessings

2009-07-19T20:46:00.000-05:00

Braeden and I went to visit my brother and sister-in-law today. Nadine (my sister-in-law) has been having some very serious medical problems. She has 2 lesions in her brain with one on her brain stem and the other growing in her brain. The doctors cannot do surgery or even a biopsy. They are planning on trying radiation to shrink them. She is going to be having a PET scan soon. The doctors say there is another tumor somewhere in her body, but so far they have not found out where.
I have always known Nadine. When I was born she was already in the family, so I have never not known her. She seems like another mother to me and has been a blessing to my life. It has really hurt me that she is suffering so much.
I am asking that everyone pray for her and her healing.

Life

2009-07-16T14:56:00.000-05:00

I just realized how very naive I am. I always trusted people at their word and believed that people are good. Boy, do I feel like a total fool. Peole have really let me down and I am so upset about this.
I am trying to just give my sorrow to the Lord and ask for his guidance. If you are reading my blog and are a believer, please include me on your prayer list. I appreciate it!
I repeat this scripture each day I wake up: This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad it it. Psalm 118:24 NIV

Bible Study

2009-07-04T20:06:00.000-05:00

Today I was reading in I John 5: 13-15 about believing and receiving from God. He is faithful to us even when we may not be as faithful to Him.

Prayer is so important in my life. I pray everywhere! I feel like I am talking to a friend and can tell Him anything. He has answered so many of my prayers and at times I feel I ask too much.

Have you prayed today?