snidbits

take two

2012-03-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'm very excited about having the chance to see Hillsong United in concert again! I saw them a few years ago but wasn't as familiar with their music as I am now. I bought their "Aftermath" CD last week and have been listening to track 6, "B.E." which is an interlude. There's just something about instrumental pieces that mean something to me. Desperation Band's latest album has two "soaking sessions" (instrumental songs) that I just love to put on repeat, "Dawn Til Dusk" and "The Morning." Hillsong does a fabulous job of putting into words what I may be feeling. One of my favorites is "Always" - they are just amazing at what they do.

I tried finding a video of "B.E" but here's link where you can listen to it!

what i'm reading

2012-03-07T00:00:00.001-05:00

I'm working on tackling my list of books to review and these are the ones that are scheduled for this month:

~ Sixty Acres and a Bride - Regina Jennings

~ Four Letter Words - Bill Giovannetti

~ Ten - Terry A. Smith

~ You're Already Amazing - Holly Gerth

~ My Imaginary Jesus - Matt Mikalatos

~ Night of the Living Dead Christian - Matt Mikalatos

hustle

2012-03-05T00:00:00.001-05:00

I've talked about my Finish Year goals but I've been slacking. I've stopped hustling. I did so well in January, tackling my list with gusto and excited at my progress. But then I got busy. My free time wasn't as plentiful and though I wasn't giving up, it became hard to find the energy to work on my goals. So I'm getting my second wind as I blow the dust off from where I've stumbled on this year-long journey. I'm making more attempts to hustle because I'm completing all of my goals this year! Each month, each week, each day is a fresh start.

And again, because I tend to think in song titles, for some reason I connected "hustling" to "shuffling" - as in "Everyday I'm Shufflin'" (don't ask me to explain my logic). Enjoy :)

saturday spotlight: courtney with "pizzazzerie"

2012-03-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

I found out about Courtney's blog from another blog I follow, Today's Creative Blog. This picture is what got my attention:

Aren't they just amazing?

Plus these gorgeous party trays! So. cool.

Head over to Pizzazzerie and see the awesome stuff Courtney has going on!

book giveaway: "sue ellen's girl ain't fat, she just weighs heavy" by shellie rushing tomlinson

2012-03-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Kate for winning my copy of Mornings with Jesus!

This month I'm giving away a copy of Sue Ellen's Girl Ain't Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy by Shellie Rushing Tomlinson. Contest ends on Saturday, March 31 at 8:00 p.m. To enter, just leave me a comment along with an email address so I can contact you.

For bonus entries:
- tell me how you heard about my giveaway
- become a follower of my blog

*Giveaways with the above logo are books that aren't new but still in really good condition.

book review: "the beautiful wife" by sandy ralya

2012-03-01T00:00:00.003-05:00

The Beautiful Wife by Sandy Ralya answers serious questions women have about their roles as wives - discussing everything from romance and money to beauty, communication, and sex. To celebrate the book's release, Sandy is giving away a Kindle Fire and hosting the "Beautiful Womanhood" Facebook party on 3/8/12. Click here for details.

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

Though I'm not married yet I wanted to read this book for when I do make that commitment with the right guy. This book is full of good advice for women as they strive to be a godly wife. Sandy makes lots of great points and shares from her own life. One line she said that coincides with Beth Moore's book So Long Insecurity I finished earlier this year: "a good man is captivated by a woman who is confident, secure, and loves the socks off of him!" This is a good resource for both married and single women - if you're married you can implement the advice now and if you're single, it's things to keep in mind for later down the road.

You can learn more about the book, buy your own copy and read other reviews in this tour.

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.

Celebrate with Sandy by entering her Kindle Touch Giveaway and coming to her "Beautiful Womanhood" Facebook Party {3/8}!

One beautiful winner will receive:

A Brand new Kindle Touch with Wi-Fi

The Beautiful Wife By Sandy Ralya

The Beautiful Wife Prayer Journal and Mentor's Guide

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

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

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Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on March 8th!

no words

2012-02-29T00:00:00.000-05:00

I thoroughly enjoy looking at diy project! There are some amazing bloggers out there who come up with the coolest stuff. I've subscribed to quite a few blogs so I daily get to see their genius as it arrives in my inbox. Here are just a few examples:

shrink film friendship necklaces

book review: "yhwh: the flood, the fish, & the giant" by g.p. taylor & paula k. parker

2012-02-28T00:00:00.003-05:00

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card authors are:

GP Taylor

AND
Paula K. Parker

and the book:

YHWH The Flood, the Fish and the Giant:
Ancient Mysteries Retold

Authentic (June 1, 2010)

***Special thanks to Mike Parker for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

GP Taylor is the New York Times best selling author of such young adult novels as Shadowmancer, Wormwood, and The Tizzle Sisters. He resides in England on the banks of a river in the midst of a dark wood, an arrow's flight from the Prince Regent Hotel.

Visit the author's website.

Paula K. Parker is a U.S.-based playwright and author whose works include stage adaptations of the Jane Austen classics, Pride & Prejudice, Sense & Sensibility, and Emma. YESHUA: The Vine, The Demon & The Traitor, the sequel to "YHWH," is scheduled for release in the spring of 2012.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

YHWH is a collection of 20 Old Testament stories, re-told for the Harry Potter generation.

In a world where Children are probably more familiar with Harry Potter than Jesus, it’s often hard to encourage them to read the Bible in its traditional form. YHWH introduces the wonderful Bible stories to them in a way that captures their imagination YHWH is based on the scripture but adds description and other allegory to make the stories come alive.

The project is supported by Walk Through the Bible Ministries who teach the Bible to over 40,000 school children each year. It could be used by Christians as a tool for evangelism and would be ideal as a gift for children and young people unfamiliar with the classic Bible narratives.

Product Details:

List Price: $13.99

Paperback: 300 pages

Publisher: Authentic (June 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1860248004

ISBN-13: 978-1860248009

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

YWHW: The Flood, The Fish & The Giant

By GP Taylor & Paula K. Parker

Authentic Media

Chapter One: The Fall

In the early light of morning, by the Tigris River that ran through the valley of Gan-Eden, a long, black serpent slithered in and out of the eucalyptus trees. The creature was followed at a distance by a small and fearful rat. Wherever the snake went, so the rat followed, but always far enough away so the bright white teeth that were hidden in the snake’s mouth could not strike it. The cobra cared for nothing but itself. It neither ate nor slept, but just slid through the undergrowth as it sought a place to hide from the sun. The serpent raised itself up and puffed out its hood, then stopped and tasted the air as it flickered its blood-red tongue. Every creature in the garden sensed the advent of death and all was silent. Sensing warmth nearby, the snake edged closer to the body of a man that lay as if unconscious in the clearing of the forest.

As the first rays of sunlight broke against the tall trees, the snake sniffed the face of the bearded creature. He smelled different from any other beast of the forest. It was then, with no human eye to see, that the snake began to slowly transform. Inch by inch, the scales of the creature quickly disintegrated and took the form of pure, white skin. As if it were being peeled, the snake changed in appearance. Its head grew and took on the countenance of a man. As the snakeskin peeled back, the rest of the body emerged. It was distinctly human, the only trace of what had been the cobra were the slitted eyes and two sharp fangs that edged his ruby lips.

Soon, the snake was no more. Its transformation was complete. The creature was angelic, tall, with long thin fingers. Waves of white hair were brushed back to reveal a chiselled face – the beauty of which no one on earth had ever seen.

‘Wormwood … do you always have to stay in that form?’ the creature asked the rat as it crawled over the stump of an old tree and looked up at him.

‘HE … might not see me like this. I feel safe if HE can’t see me.’ The rat replied, as it brushed its face with clawed hands that looked quite human.

‘HE sees everything. There is nothing in the universe that HE can’t see.’ The man replied angrily.

‘But Lucifer, HE was your friend and master,’ the rat answered without thinking.

‘As HE was yours, Wormwood. Then the Creator cast us out – just for thinking we were His equal.…’ Lucifer answered as he looked about him, knowing he was being overheard. ‘And now, not only does the man Marah inhabit this place, but the Creator in his wisdom has made that – a friend for Marah; the man created from dust – blood and gall – now has a companion.’

Lucifer pointed to the body of a woman who lay on the ground in a deep sleep. She was covered in eucalyptus leaves, her long black hair trailing in ringlets across her dark skin.

‘She is … very beautiful,’ Wormwood answered as he looked down at the woman. ‘Is she an angel?’

Lucifer looked at Marah. He traced his finger along Marah’s naked skin and dug the nail into his flesh until he came to a long wound in his side.

‘Interesting …’ Lucifer mused as he traced the wound. ‘It looks as though HE has taken a rib to form this other one.’

‘Shall we kill them?’ Wormwood asked. ‘We killed many angels in heaven until Raphael put an end to our war.’

‘Not yet,’ Lucifer answered. ‘I think that here will be a fine place to wage our war on the Creator. If HE has one weakness, it is compassion. If I were King of Heaven, I would not have allowed us to live. All HE did was cast us down to this place. Even with our rebellion, He showed kindness. How foolish is HE?’ Lucifer asked the rat.

Wormwood did not speak. He stared at the woman and watched her breathing. Lucifer reached out and touched her face.

‘What will we do with them?’ Wormwood asked.

‘There will be time; after all, we have all eternity,’ Lucifer answered quickly as he heard footsteps in the forest.

Suddenly changing back to the shape of the serpent, Lucifer slithered quickly into the undergrowth. Wormwood darted to the cover of the trees.

Gan-Eden was still. The scent of death had vanished. Marah lay on the ground as if asleep. Around him, bushes covered in blossoms were once more humming with bees. The trees shadowing him were alive with birds singing, building nests and pecking at the ripening fruit. Animals walked up to gently sniff at the sleeping humans and then wander into the brush. The footsteps drew closer and closer. From amongst the trees and bushes, a breath as warm as sunlight and deep as eternity flared the nostrils of the man as the voice echoed, ‘Marah … awake.’

Marah’s eyes shifted under closed lids and gradually opened; without turning his head, he looked around, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of Gan-Eden. Yawning he stretched, extending his arms, and touched … something.

He turned to see a figure sleeping on the ground. It was like him … but it wasn’t.

‘Creator,’ Marah asked, ‘… what … is this?’

The voice that had awakened him echoed in response, ‘She is woman. She will be your companion and your helper. Your wife. All the animals in the garden were made male and female. It was not good for you to be alone; in the entire garden, there was none equal to you. I caused you to fall into a deep sleep and took one of your ribs and, from that rib, I created her.’

Marah rose to his knees to inspect the sleeping woman. He brushed away the leaves that covered her body. Her skin was soft as a butterfly’s wings and thick dark lashes brushed cheeks the colour of peaches. Hair the shade of a raven’s wing flowed from her head, covering her to her thighs. Her lids fluttered and then opened. The eyes inspecting him were almond-shaped, their colour reflecting the grass beneath her. She looked at Marah curiously and reached to touch his face. She laughed; the sound was as light and fresh as the mist that arose each morning.

Taking her hand, Marah helped the woman to stand. Wife, he thought. A companion and a helper. Like me, but not like me.

‘You are bone of my bone,’ he told her, ‘and flesh of my flesh.’

Her brow wrinkled, as if not understanding.

Marah cupped her cheek. ‘You are “woman”,’ – then he touched his side – ‘for you were taken out of “man”.’

The woman opened her mouth, working to shape full lips. ‘Mmm … aaahhh.…’

Touching his chest, he told her, ‘I am “Marah”.’

‘Marah,’ she spoke as if tasting the word.

Pointing to her, he said, ‘Havva.’

‘That is good,’ the voice of the Creator echoed through the trees.

Havva looked around for the source of the voice and then looked at Marah, her brow furrowed in question.

‘That is the Creator,’ Marah said.

Havva looked at him and smiled. It was as if she knew all of what Marah spoke.

‘The Creator is good,’ Havva answered.

Marah smiled. ‘Yes, He is.’ Taking her hand, he said, ‘Now come … let me show you Gan-Eden.’

Together they walked through forests and meadows, up hills and down into valleys, enjoying the feel of soft grass beneath their feet. Marah led Havva to a river; releasing her hand, he jumped into the water, laughing. Turning, he extended his arms. ‘Water.’

‘Water,’ she laughed and jumped, gasping as the cold water hit her skin and filled her mouth and nose.

He held her hand as they waded through the water. Fish darted between the man and woman, tickling their legs and feet with brightly coloured fins. Marah showed Havva how to drink the water with cupped hands and wiped her dripping lips. Then they left the river and walked to a nearby tree. Plucking fruit from a laden bough, Marah handed one to Havva.

‘Peach,’ he bit into the ripe flesh, juice spurting and dripping to his chest. ‘Mmmm …’ he nodded.

She bit into her peach; her eyes widened at her first taste of food. She nodded and laughed as the juice ran down her chin. After eating several more peaches, they plunged back into the river to wash their skin and then laid down on the bank to rest in the sunlight.

As the sun slipped down the sky, changing from golden to orange, to disappear beyond the horizon, Marah led Havva to a spot beneath a massive oak. He showed her how to pull up armfuls of tall blades of grass and lay them on top of each other. When the pile of grass reached their knees, Marah sat down and reached up to pull Havva down next to him. He lay on his back, with his hands cushioning his head. After a moment, Havva lay next to him and placed her head on his chest. As the sky darkened the moon arose, creamy and full, and stars scattered like diamonds across the expanse. The man and woman’s breathing slowed and before they fell asleep, they heard, ‘That is very good,’ whispered across the night sky.

Through the days that followed, Marah showed Havva the length and breadth of Gan-Eden. As they wandered, they tended the plants. Marah showed Havva how to use a sharp stone to cut the pips and seeds from the fruit they ate; they stuck the seeds in the ground. ‘From these, the Creator will make more grow.’ They would climb the trees to toss down fruit for the animals that couldn’t reach it. And in the evening, the Creator would come. Not that they saw the Creator; they felt His presence as the sun warmed their skin and heard His voice whispering through the sky. They would talk about all they had done and the Creator would instruct them about the needs of the animals and plants in Gan-Eden.

‘Be fruitful and increase in number,’ the voice of the Creator whispered in their hearts, ‘fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground. I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air and all the creatures that move on the ground – everything that has the breath of life in it – I give every green plant for food.’

One golden day when the warm wind blew in from the west, Marah and Havva followed the bank of the Tigris to where it met with the Euphrates to form the Great River. The waters rolled and cascaded, frothing over rocks. On the bank of the river, stood two trees. Both were gigantic, taller than any other tree in Gan-Eden and laden with ripe fruit, filling the air with spicy sweetness. As they looked across the waters, the Creator spoke. The voice echoed across the sky.

‘This is the centre of the garden,’ the Creator spoke above the sounds of the rushing water. ‘The trees in the middle of the garden are the tree of life’ the wind blew ruffled the leaves on the tree on the right, ‘and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.’ The leaves on the left tree waved in the breeze.‘You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely taste death.’

‘Marah,’ Havva asked, ‘what is “death”?’

‘I do not know,’ he told her. His face had grown solemn and thoughtful. He was not laughing now. ‘But we do not need to know. It is enough that the Creator tells us not to eat from the tree.’ He took her hand and looked into her eyes. ‘We will obey.’

She nodded hesitantly. ‘We will obey.’

As they turned to go, Havva caught sight of an animal she had not met. From a distance, it looked like the branch of a tree it curled around, but its skin glistened like a lizard.

‘Marah, what is that?’ she pointed to the snake as it bowed from the branch.

He looked. ‘That is Serpent.’

‘Why does it not come and greet us?’

Marah shrugged. ‘I know not.’ He took her hand. ‘Come, I saw pomegranates. Let’s eat some.’

As they walked away, Havva felt an itching sensation between her shoulders. Looking back, she saw the serpent watching her; it looked as though it was smiling.

Time passed slowly in Gan-Eden. Havva had grown accustomed to the land. She knew where to find the best pears and apples, when to pick the raspberries and how to choose the ripest tomatoes. All was well. The Creator walked in the land by the river and they listened to His voice as the sun set and the moon rose out of the mountains.

One morning, the sunlight streamed into her eyes and woke Havva. She looked over at Marah; he was sleeping on his side, with a large leaf covering his head. She smiled at her husband, who snorted and rubbed his nose, and snuggled into their bed. Havva stood up to gather food for Marah and herself.

Wandering, she plucked an apple from a nearby tree; the fruit was sweet and crunchy. She washed the sticky juice from her fingers. She pulled a large leaf from a tree and used it to gather fruit for Marah and herself: more apples, raspberries, dark red cherries, peaches, a small melon. When she came upon the pomegranate tree, she found herself standing near the Great River and the two trees the Creator had told them about.

The fruits on both trees were unlike any she had seen before: larger than any Havva had gathered, and their fragrance made her mouth water and filled the glade with its essence.

‘Havva,’ a voice said from deep within the glade.

She turned. There, slithering towards her was the serpent. As it neared, she could see that it began to slowly change and stand up on two legs. It looked like Marah – its eyes were tilted slits, the mouth wide. The creature shuddered joyfully.

‘How do you know my name?’ she asked.

‘We all know that Havva and Marah are favoured by the Creator,’ Serpent spoke, hissing out each word. ‘I see you are gathering food,’ it said. ‘Have you come to pick fruit from these trees?’ It walked towards the tree on the left.

‘But not fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil,’ Havva answered.

‘Is it true that the Creator really said, “You must not eat from any tree in the garden”?’

‘No,’ Havva said. ‘We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but the Creator said, “You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.”’

‘You will not surely die,’ Serpent said. ‘The Creator does not want you to eat it, for He knows that when you eat the fruit, you will be wise like Him, knowing good and evil.’ Plucking a fruit, it bit into the flesh. Serpent closed its eyes and hissed, ‘No other fruit tastes so good.’

Havva took a step closer to the tree. The fruit was large and plump, its aroma filling her head. She dropped the leaf filled with the fruit she had gathered. None of the fruit I picked looks or smells as good as this, she thought. Surely becoming as wise as the Creator is a good thing.

Slowly lifting her hand, she reached up and – hesitantly – touched the nearest fruit. It was firm and ripe; one slight tug and the fruit fell into Havva’s hand. She sniffed it; the aroma was sweet and set her mouth watering. She extended her tongue and licked it. She waited … nothing happened … no death … it tasted like the dawn. She took one bite – then another and another. She consumed the fruit, grabbed another and ate it. Hand over hand, she ate several pieces of fruit, unable to assuage her hunger.

‘Havva!’ shouted another voice. She whirled around, a fruit in one hand and a half-eaten fruit in the other.

Marah stared at her, stared at her hands. ‘What have you done?’ he whispered.

Havva stepped towards her husband. ‘Marah … I woke before you … wanted to gather food … the serpent told me that the Creator didn’t want us to be like him … I ate one … the fruit is unlike any we have eaten before … nothing happened … I’m the same –’

‘No,’ he shook his head, ‘you are different….’

‘I am like the Creator….’ She lifted the uneaten fruit to his mouth. ‘Don’t you want to … be like Him?’ She lifted the other fruit and took a bite. ‘They are wonderful.’

Marah stared at his wife … opened his mouth … and took a bite.

The ground was soon littered with fruit, some eaten, some just bitten into. Other fruit was just thrown to the ground and smashed underfoot in their haste to grab more. No matter how many they ate, their hunger remained.

‘Marah …’ she said, her voice anguished. ‘Something is different.’

‘What do you mean?’ Marah asked, his mouth full of fruit.

‘I do not know. We should know,’ Havva’s voice was rough and sharp as a stone. ‘We ate the fruit … the serpent said we would be wise as the Creator and know everything.’

‘Havva …’ Marah said, ‘the serpent is not the Creator and we did as he told us, not as the Creator told us.’

Havva grabbed her waist. ‘Marah … something is different … in me.’ She doubled over, crying out in pain. ‘Something is twisting inside.’

Running to the river, Havva retched as she coughed up the half-eaten fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. It twisted her guts and stuck in her throat as she retched and retched. Again and again she tried to rid herself of the pain in her stomach and her heart. She was distantly aware of Marah kneeling next to her. She heard his cries of anguish and pain as he emptied his stomach of the fruit.

Reaching out, she pulled a leaf from a nearby bush and wiped her mouth. Not enough. She grabbed another and, opening her mouth, wiped her tongue. Still not enough.

Pulling leaf after leaf, the man and woman tried to clean the feeling from their mouths, their bellies, their hearts. Shivering, Havva took fig leaves and knotted the ends, until she had formed a covering for herself. Noticing that Marah was also trembling, she formed a covering for Marah.

‘Marah … Havva …’

They looked at each other, hearts pounding.

‘The Creator,’ Marah whispered. ‘He is coming.’

‘He will see us … He will know.’ Havva said. Turning, she ran down the path, stumbling over rocks and stumps, scratching her legs on bushes, until she found four trees that leaned towards each other. Several small bushes growing at their base formed a small shelter. Dropping to her knees, she crawled inside. A moment later, Marah crawled in beside her. She could hear Marah’s heart beating in fear.

‘Marah … Havva … where are you?’ The leaves on the bushes trembled … ‘Marah?’

Marah looked at Havva and shook his head. ‘I must answer …’ Taking a shuddering breath, the man stuttered, ‘I-I am in here …’

‘Where is Havva?’

Havva looked wide-eyed at Marah, who nodded.

‘I … I am in here with Marah.’

‘Why are you in there?’

‘We heard you in the forest and we were afraid you would see … us … as we are … naked … so we hid from you.’

‘Who told you that you were naked?’ the Creator spoke in a sad whisper. ‘Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?’

The pain in the Creator’s voice tore at Marah, the knowledge of his disobedience too heavy to confess.

‘The woman you put here with me – she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.’

‘Havva.’ The woman cringed under the weight of His voice. ‘What is this you have done?’

Havva’s thoughts were as rapid as her heartbeat. What can I say? How do I explain?

‘It was Serpent. He told me it would make me like you …’ her voice dropped to a tearful whisper, ‘and I ate.’

The leaves at the door to their shelter began trembling, shivering, as the wind began blowing, howling. The presence of the Creator rose above the earth, His voice swelled to cover all creation.

‘Serpent, because you have done this, you are cursed above all the creatures of the night. You will crawl on your belly and you will eat dust all the days of your life. I will put hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.’

What will He do to us?’ she whispered.

‘Havva.’ The woman wrapped her arms around her legs and laid her head on her knees. ‘You will give birth to children and they will bring you pain. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.’

‘Marah.’ The man turned from his wife, as the Creator spoke to him. ‘Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, “You must not eat of it”: cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.’

A sudden, sharp sound rent the air. It was unlike anything that Marah or Havva had ever heard before. It pierced their ears and tore at their hearts.

‘Marah … Havva…’ The Creator’s voice sounded as painful as their hearts. ‘Come here.’

Marah dropped to his knees to crawl from their hiding place; after a moment, Havva followed. Standing, they looked around. Nothing seemed different about the land … yet it was. There, by a bush, was a slaughtered sheep. Its throat was cut, blood issued from its fleece, mixing with the dust of the earth.

The voice of the Creator rose above the trees again, ‘The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever.’

The ground under the man and woman’s feet trembled and shook, as the sky grew blinding white. In fear, they watched as a figure descended from the clouds to stand in front of the two trees. It had the shape of a man, with wings like the mighty eagle. His face was terrible to see. In his hand was a flaming sword.

Looking at Marah and Havva, the angel lifted the sword and opened his mouth. ‘GO.’

The word echoed from one end of Gan-Eden to the other. Fire flashed from the sword; a tree near the humans erupted into flames.

Grabbing Havva’s hand, Marah began running, screaming, as first a tree and then a bush exploded before them.

They came to the edge of the river where Marah had first showed Havva how to drink and swam across the river, choking on the water that filled their nose and mouth. They crawled out of the water and collapsed on the riverbank, panting. After his heart and breathing had slowed, Marah rolled over and pulled himself to his knees. He looked up and gasped.

Havva grabbed his ankle, too afraid to look. ‘What is it?’

‘They’re gone,’ Marah’s voice was ragged.

‘What’s gone? The serpent?’

‘No,’ Marah dropped to the ground next to his wife. ‘The tree of life … it is gone. Gan-Eden has disappeared.’

Turning, Havva looked behind them. Across the river, beyond the far bank, was … nothing. There were bushes, forests, and hills; but they were not those of the garden. Arching her neck, Havva looked in one direction and then turned to look in the other. Straining her eyes, she could not see the massive tree of life or the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. They were … gone!

‘Marah, where is it? Did the Creator destroy the land?’

‘I don’t think so. I think Gan-Eden is hidden from us. Maybe one day, He will let us return.’ He reached down and took Havva’s hand and pulled her up. ‘… For now, we must find shelter … the night is coming.’

My thoughts: I liked this book! I always enjoy reading something that can further bring to life people in the Bible. Taylor and Parker made me think by focusing on different parts of each story that maybe I haven't thought about before. The story of Esther is one of my favorites so I was excited for it to be included in this book. By the authors digging deeper with each story, it makes the people seem that much more real. The stories aren't very long but long enough for you to feel like you're gaining something from it. I'm looking forward to the next book Yeshua: the King, the Demon & the Traitor that is set to come out next month.

saturday spotlight: jen with "tatertots and jello"

2012-02-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Jen has a fantastic blog! I love her ideas - they're super cute! She has lots of tutorials, craft ideas, holiday ideas and she features different guest bloggers. Just look at some of her projects!

covered button project

geometric pillow tutorial

a spring printable

book review: "creative slow-cooker meals" by cheryl moeller

2012-02-24T00:00:00.003-05:00

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Cheryl Moeller

and the book:

Creative Slow-Cooker Meals:
Use Two Slow Cookers for
Tasty and Easy Dinners [Spiral-Bound]

Harvest House Publishers; Spi edition (February 1, 2012)

***Special thanks to Karri James, Marketing Assistant, Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cheryl Moeller is a seasoned mother and a standup comic. She is also a syndicated columnist with her own blog (www.momlaughs.blogspot.com) and contributes monthly to several online parent websites. Cheryl has coauthored two books on marriage with her husband and has written for www.mops.org and Marriage Partnership. Cheryl does comedy for parenting classes, MOPS groups, wedding or baby showers, church retreats, women’s conferences, and those in line at the grocery store.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

From the celebrated coauthor of The Marriage Miracle comes a new kind of cookbook and a new attitude toward planning meals. With an eye toward the whole menu, not just part of it, columnist Cheryl Moeller teaches cooks to use two crockpots to easily create healthy, homemade dinners.

Don’t worry about your dinner being reduced to a mushy stew. Each of the more than 200 recipes has been taste-tested at Cheryl’s table. Join the Moeller family as you dig into:

Harvest-time Halibut Chowder

Salmon and Gingered Carrots

Mediterranean Rice Pilaf

Indian Chicken Curry

Apricot-Pistachio Bread

Shrimp Creole

Rhubarb Crisp

... and many more! Perfect for the frazzled mom who never has enough time in the day, Creative Slow-Cooker Meals gives readers more time around the table with delicious, healthy, frugal, and easy meals!

Product Details:

List Price: $14.99

Spiral-bound: 272 pages

Publisher: Harvest House Publishers; Spi edition (February 1, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0736944915

ISBN-13: 978-0736944915

AND NOW...THE FIFTH CHAPTER (click on pages to enlarge):

My thoughts: I haven't been able to try out these recipes yet since I'm on a fast but I am super excited for when I can! Some ones that are at the top of my list:

- Overnight Oats with Triple Berry Oatmeal Topping (pg. 12-13)

- Slow-Cooker Pancake (pg. 22)

- Friendship Tea (pg. 26)

- Little Piggies in a Blanket (pg. 27)

- Sausage, Egg & Cheese Casserole (pg. 29)

- Swedish Meatballs (pg. 84)

- Shepherd's Pie (pg. 100)

- Chicken Manicotti (pg. 108)

- Brownies in a Mug (pg. 110)

- Sloppy Joes (pg. 117)

- Rosemary Chicken (pg. 118)

- Captain Mac (pg. 129)

- Hot Mocha Frappes (pg. 131)

- Spaghetti Night (pg. 138)

- Italian Bread Basket (pg. 139)

- Bread Pudding (pg. 148)

- Raspberry Ginger Ale Sponge Cupcakes (pg. 168)

- Quick Whole Wheat Bread (pg. 180)

- Book Club Chai Tea (pg. 262)

I like that it's spiral bound making it easy when using in the kitchen. I love the idea of being able to make all of these recipes using a slow cooker! It's so easy and you can make sooooo many things with it! I'm very much looking forward to trying these out!

fight dirty

2012-02-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know if anyone can relate but I'm feeling opposition during this fast. I'm fasting for three things, two of which I will share.. I'm believing for the right full-time teaching position and a new car. These are things I've been praying for for a while now and I reached the decision that since I need these big things to happen in my life, I need to sacrifice something big - hence my Daniel Fast. I'm on Day 16 and having to constantly make the choice to see this through and not give up. I had a moment last week where I felt like God apparently didn't see the fact that I'm fasting and I was just frustrated. I wanted to chuck my fast out the window and eat chocolate and meat and everything else. But then I realized that maybe this wasn't coincidental. I know God hasn't forgotten me and sees how serious I am to fast about it. The moment you want to give up is the moment you need to fight the hardest. You have to kick and claw and fight dirty against the devil to get your breakthroughs. You have to refuse to give up and don't let how you feel at the moment determine the end result. Know that it will be worth it and you'll be that much stronger on the other side.

recipe: chocolate fudge s'mores mug cake

2012-02-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

This looks amazing. It's chocolate and I'm just super excited to be able to try it. I'm thinking it would be absolutely perfect on a cold day. Though honestly, I'm sure it's good anytime :) You can go to Jessica's blog to view the picture by picture instructions.

Ingredients

2-3 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs

3 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1/8 teaspoon baking powder

pinch of salt

1 1/2 ounces milk chocolate (chopped or morsels)

marshmallow fluff, cream or actual marshmallows

Directions

"Combine 3 tablespoons butter and 1 ounce of chocolate in a small bowl, then melt in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Set aside. In another bowl, combine remaining melted butter with 2-3 tablespoons of graham cracker crumbs and stir until moistened. Press graham crumbs into the bottom of your mug.

In a bowl. whisk egg, sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add in flour, baking powder, salt and cocoa, stir until a thick batter forms. Stream in melted butter and chocolate, mixing to combine. Fold in remaining chocolate chips. Add half of the mixture on top of the graham crust, then throw on a scoop of marshmallow fluff/cream or a few marshmallows. Add remaining batter on top, then pop in the microwave for 1 minute and 20 seconds to almost 2 minutes. Remove and top with additional marshmallow if desired. You can pop it back in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to make them melty, or pop them directly under the broiler for about 10 seconds to toast if desired. You can also use a kitchen torch if you have one. Sprinkle with graham crumbs!

Notes: If you don’t have whole wheat pastry flour, you can use all-purpose. I would not recommend using regular whole wheat. Additionally, I have made this by substituting coconut butter for the full amount of butter. It was just as delicious, albeit slightly drier. You cannot taste coconut at all. Finally, take into account the power of your microwave. Mine has a mind of it’s own and is insanely powerful, so I cooked this on 80% power. Judge accordingly and add/subtract a few minutes of cooking if you know your’s is wonky too. Unfortunately it may take 1-2 trial runs to get the right consistency because all microwaves are different, but I promise it’s worth it!"

saturday spotlight: brook with "being brook"

2012-02-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've just recently discovered Brook's blog but I am very impressed! She has some great ideas. For example, her Valentine Wreath:

Or this lamp she re-vamped. How cool does that look?!

Head over to Being Brook and take a look at her amazing ideas! She also has sewing projects, furniture makeovers and organizing ideas. Find something you like and create your own awesome (her slogan is "create awesome" and I love that!)!

no words

2012-02-17T00:00:00.000-05:00

A blog I follow recently did a post on ideas for when you can't think of what to write about. I'm using that post for inspiration as I share with you some pretty incredible looking pictures of recipes I want to try soon. Warning: you should probably not view these if already hungry :)

1. Chocolate Fudge S'Mores Mug Cake

2. Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

3. Simple Dotty Valentine Cookies

4. Oreo Pudding Poke Cake

5. Lemon Cream Flax Muffins

6. Red Velvet Cake Doughnuts

7. Cookie Dough Cupcakes

8. Mini Cinnamon Sugar Popovers

9. Chocolate Cupcake Ice Cream Sandwiches

the waiting

2012-02-15T00:00:00.002-05:00

I'm taking a major trip down memory lane here but every so often I'll get Christian songs from the 90's stuck in my head. This was the case the other day when I began humming "In the Waiting" by Greg Long (this was prior to him joining Avalon in case you needed that clarification). Humor me as I share the chorus:

"I want a peace beyond my understanding

I want to feel it fall like rain

In the middle of my hurting

I want to feel Your arms as they surround me

And let me know that it's okay

To be here in this place

Resting in the peace that only comes

In the waiting."

source: http://www.christianlyricsonline.com/artists/greg-long/in-the-waiting.html

I think there will always be something in life I'm "waiting" on - that's just how life is. We're always striving for something but I think that's ok. The other side of that is being completely satisfied to the point of never trying, never reaching. So for me, I'm still in the process of being in a place where I'm waiting but I'm also doing. I'm eagerly anticipating some things but at the same time, busy with other things God has for me. I get excited when I see tiny glimpses of those things and it encourages me as I continue to wait.

*After I scheduled this post, I heard the song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller and had to include it! It's such a great song and totally goes along with this post!

recipe: cake

2012-02-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've said before how much I like Bakerella. Well, she just officially made me a like her all the more with one of her recent posts. Does that cake not look just absolutely amazing?! I haven't tried this recipe out - though it's going to the top of my list - and looks a little involved. I have a feeling it's worth it :) Here are her instructions and you can go to the direct post to see picture-by-picture instructions.

Chocolate Cake
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
2/3 cup natural unsweetened cocoa
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 cup milk
2/3 cup hot water

Buttercream Frosting
1 1/2 cups butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
6 cups powdered sugar
4-8 Tablespoons milk
2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels, if desired

Chocolate Ganache
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup butter
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels

Directions

"For the cake: preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease the bottom of two 9-inch cake pans. Then place parchment paper cut to size on the bottom of each pan and grease paper. Dust pans with cocoa. Sift dry ingredients together and place in a large mixing bowl. Add eggs, oil, milk and vanilla and beat for a couple of minutes until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add hot water and mix together. Pour into prepared pans and bake for about 28-30 minutes. Batter will be very liquid. Cool for about 5 minutes in the pan. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

For the frosting: beat the butter in a mixer until smooth. Add vanilla and mix until combined. Add the powdered sugar in several additions, scraping down the sides after each addition. Add milk a tablespoon at a time and mix together until you achieve a smooth consistency. Note: If you want your frosting whiter without using shortening, add a little white icing color to tint.

For the ganache: heat cream and butter in a saucepan until melted and remove before it starts to boil. Place chocolate morsels in a small bowl and pour cream on top. Let sit for a few seconds and whisk by hand until completely incorporated and smooth. Let cool until thick and pourable. The ganache can take a bit to thicken. You can make it before the buttercream, to save time. Just use a wire whisk to stir it every few minutes and keep it smooth.

To assemble: trim tops off of cake layers with a long serrated knife so they have a nice, flat top. Place one layer bottom side up on cake stand. Mix about 2/3 cup morsels with about 1 cup of the frosting. Spread frosting on top of bottom layer. Place second layer on top. It helps to have a crumb coat on the outside of your cake first. Simply apply a thin coat of frosting to the entire cake to catch andy excess crumbs. Then place cake in freezer for a few minutes to firm up frosting and cover the entire cake again with a thick layer of buttercream. This will help you keep all those crumbs from getting caught in your pretty work. Slowly, pour ganache over center of cake. Pour just enough to start dripping down the sides."

saturday spotlight: courtney with "swimming into second"

2012-02-11T00:00:00.001-05:00

I've been noticing some really cute stuff in different classrooms I've worked as a substitute in. I've seen handouts and things on the wall with absolutely adorable illustrations. I finally was able to figure out where they came from and knew it would be my next spotlight post! Courtney has a great blog called Swimming into Second. She has some free printables on her blog as well as listing other blogs by teachers (it seems most are second grade) if you're into networking and connecting with other teachers. She has some of her stuff available on Teachers Pay Teachers (a site where you can find some great free stuff!). If you're in the elementary education profession and in need of some ideas, her over to Courtney's blog...which will then lead you to other blogs!

to do

2012-02-08T00:00:00.001-05:00

I'm making a conscious effort to be more deliberate with my "to do" lists this year. I'm always writing down things I need to get done but often I misplace the paper or just end up with so many that there's no way I can tackle them all. At the end of last year I cleared off the bulletin board in my room and decided to make use of it! At the top of the board I typed up and mounted on card stock the days of the week. Below each day is a list of two or three things to focus on - thereby making it way more manageable. Underneath that I have two giant lists. These are my "master" lists from which I pull the things for each day. It's that whole "How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time" theory. What's not in the picture is the bottom of my bulletin board. I have a calendar for the month where I keep track of blog posts and book reviews. Beside the this is a running list of the books I've read this year along with the date finished.

So this is what works for me. Maybe it can help you if you're needing a little organization direction. If you have other ideas, please share in the comments!

book review: "the accidental bride" by denise hunter

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-05:00

Shay Brandenberger is raising her daughter in the same home she grew up in. Though she fights to keep her home, the bank is threatening to foreclose. She's doesn't know what to do - just that she needs a miracle.

Travis McCoy had his fun on the rodeo circuit but back and ready to settle down. Though he left Shay on their wedding day, he's never forgotten her. He hopes to be able to prove to Shay he won't leave her again. Can he get past her defenses? Can she trust him?

Denise Hunter is one of my favorite authors. I've also read her The Convenient Groom and enjoyed this one just as much! It was a easy read and I had no trouble getting pulled into the story. I found similarities between Kate (The Convenient Groom)and Shay. Both find themselves temporarily married to a man they don't want to be married to. Despite Kate and Shay's misgivings, I liked both Travis and Lucas (The Convenient Groom).Both only wanted to help the women they were married to and I thought them both sweet. This is part of Denise's "Big Sky Romance" series. I've also read A Cowboy's Touch and it was fun to revisit those characters as they appeared in this book. Great read!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.

You can buy the book from Amazon or learn more from her website.

daniel fast

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know your take on fasting but my personal belief is that if you're needing God to do something, fasting is one way to make that happen. Sometimes fasting brings breakthroughs that nothing else can. So, since I'm needing certain things to happen in my life, I'm beginning another Daniel Fast from February 7 through the 28. With this being a leap year, I thought it would be really cool to end my fast on the 29th. I feel like it's this extra day and what better way to celebrate than eating the things I've not had for the last 21 days? I did this fast last summer for the first time and feel a little bit more prepared. I'm working on actually planning out menus instead of searching the cabinets for anything I'm allowed to eat (not a good idea :).

I purchased The Daniel Fast by Susan Gregory - it's a devotional but also full of recipes. She also has a blog which is how I first heard about her. If you've never done something like this before, it will definitely test you. I like breads and dairy and meat and chocolate and caffeine and giving all of that up is not easy. But there are times when you realize what you need to happen in your life is more than eating yummy foods. If you've done this fast before, what are some recipes you would recommend? I'll be sharing ones I've found to be successful over the next few weeks (fyi, tofu is icky - I learned that lesson last year). I'm really excited about being able to tell what God did during this process!

If you're looking for more resources, here are some sites:

- food guidelines

- Jentezen Franklin

- ultimate Daniel fast

saturday spotlight: desiree with "the 36th avenue"

2012-02-04T00:00:00.002-05:00

I found out about The 36th Avenue through a recent post from Today's Creative Blog. She has some AMAZING stuff on her site! She is super talented and has just tons of ideas! Look at this yarn lampshade she made:

Or these chore charts. How cool is that?

What I really love is her slogan: "be extraordinary." She has tons of tutorials on how to make about a million things (maybe not a million but a whole lot). Head over to her site and see all the great stuff she has going on!

diy: felt flower hair clips

2012-02-03T00:00:00.001-05:00

I think flowers as accessories for your hair are just super cute. They're fun and the possibilities are endless. While walking through the my local Hobby Lobby, I became inspired to make my own hair clips. The scrapbooking section has an AMAZING selection of flowers for such a project. They had some I might buy later on that were probably six inches wide. They were in a jar and I think had about ten different colors - plus they were polka dotted. This took me less than ten minutes to make and I spent under five dollars (using my weekly 40% off coupon).

I bought a pack of six flowers and a bag of assorted size clips. The clips were $2 for eight and the flowers were $4 (without a coupon).

I needed to mount the flowers onto a base since making a cluster. I had some felt that I cut out and then arranged the flowers on it. I put hot glue in the center of each flower and then attached to the felt.

I then flipped it over and glued the clip. Once it dried, I placed a smaller piece of felt inside the clip and glued it down - just for reinforcement.

And here you go, I was able to make two clips. You could even just use one or two - whatever you want.

input

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'm debating on whether or not I want to increase the amount of posting I do. Normally, I post on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Sometimes it's more if I have to post a book review on a specific day. So, faithful readers, what would you like to see? Do you prefer me to leave things as is (that whole, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" theory) or do you like when blogs post every day? I'm open to suggestions because I want to keep those who happen by my blog in mind. So let me know how I can help you by you helping me :)

book review: "mornings with Jesus" & giveaway

2012-01-31T00:00:00.002-05:00

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

I was excited to be able to review this book! I’ve read works by several of the authors so it was very cool to be able to peek into their hearts as they shared. With it only being January, I’ve not read very much of the book but I have no doubt the rest is full of great stuff! The devotionals are only a page – great for reading on your way out the door in the morning and then “munching on” for the rest of the day. The one that has stood out to me the most is by Camy Tang. It was for January 29 and she talked about making the choice to be faithful in the things you put your hands to. Those things will be different for each of us but her point was to prove yourself faithful to God and He’ll bless you for it. The verse was Matthew 25:21 (parable about the three stewards) and she made this comment: “None of these things [the things God has given her – job, family, working with her youth ministry, etc.] requires gold so I never equated them with the things the master talks about in the parable. But then I realized that he didn’t specify gold. He praised the servant for being faithful with a few things.” That’s something I’m going to work on – being faithful with what God has given me and giving all of my focus and energy into those things. These are great women to learn from and I look forward to the rest of the year!

You can read other reviews in this blog tour or buy the book.

I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.

Plus, Litfuse sent me an extra copy to give away! This is my February giveaway. To enter, just leave me a comment along with an email address so I can contact you. For extra entries, become a follower of my blog (+1 entry), tell me how you heard about this giveaway (+1 entry) and leave a comment on any of my other posts (+1 entry). Contest ends Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.

finish year update - january

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

So this about wraps up month one of me working on my finish year goals. I'm excited to say I've made progress on some of my goals and here's what I've been up to:

2. Submit 2 posts to (in)courage. I've submitted one and already have the idea for the second but haven't had a chance to put it all together. I'm still waiting on a response for when they'll use my submission but am excited about it!

4. Read all of my review books. I've read four books so far and am almost finished with a fifth one. I'm putting some things on hold until I can get through my stack so I'm hoping that's motivation.

- The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen

- The Accidental Bride by Denise Hunter

- Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland

- The Chocolate Diaries by Karen Scalf Linamen

5. Do a random act of kindness twice a month. I slacked off a little on this by only putting down one ARK (has anybody seen "Evan Almighty" to get that reference?). I made chocolate chip cookie dough truffles for my coworkers - though I ended up eating the majority :)

6. Listen to one podcast/sermon a month. I've been able to listen to eight messages in a series my pastor did a while back.

7. Complete 5 DIY projects. I finished my first one yesterday! I've been wanting a new journal to use to take notes for church but couldn't find one that I really liked so I made one!

8. Comment on one blog a week. I've done pretty good with this one. I'm keeping track by pasting the links in a draft email just so I can see where all I've been.

10. Go to 5 events to meet new people. I think I met this one by attending training to become an election official. It's something that I was presented with the opportunity to be a part of so I went. I didn't know anyone so I think that counts :)

What about you? How are your Finish Year goals coming? It's not too late to start now!

saturday spotlight: elisabeth with "poppy and pinecone"

2012-01-28T00:00:00.001-05:00

I accidentally gave ya'll a sneak peek at the spotlight for today on Thursday when this posted. Just act surprised for me, k?

I heard about the Poppy and Pinecone's etsy shop from Nest of Posies. She has some super creative stuff - and reasonably priced. She has quotes as well as states and country pictures as well. Take a look at her "World Love:"

Go check out her shop! I'm sure you'll find something that you'll like :)

book review: "love out loud" by joyce meyer

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Joyce Meyer

and the book:

Love Out Loud: 365 Devotions for Loving God, Loving Yourself, and Loving Others

FaithWords (November 2, 2011)

***Special thanks to Sarah Reck, Web Publicist | FaithWords & Center Street | Hachette Book Group, for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Joyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, she has written more than eighty inspirational books, including The Secret to True Happiness, 100 Ways to Simplify Your Life, the entire Battlefield of the Mind family of books, her first venture into fiction with The Penny, and many others. She has also released thousands of audio teachings, as well as a complete video library. Joyce’s Enjoying Everyday Life radio and television programs are broadcast around the world, and she travels extensively conducting conferences. Joyce and her husband, Dave, are the parents of four grown children and make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.

Visit the author's website. Visit the author's twitter. Visit the author's Facebook.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Jesus said, "You must love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." - Luke10:27

If one had to choose a single verse in the Bible that is a formula for successful living, this would be the one to live by, says Joyce Meyer: love God, yourself and others - in that order.

Many Christians get mixed up about love. They know they should love God and others, but many do not understand that loving oneself is one-third of God's equation. They mistakenly think of it as selfishness or self-aggrandizement.

Joyce Meyer believes that this misconception is one of the greatest pitfalls in the Christian journey. Loving oneself in a balanced, healthy manner is essential in order to have healthy relationships with God, ourselves and others.

Drawing upon her previous work and teaching series as well as original devotions, the author of Power Thoughts examines the three loves that we've been commanded to exhibit.

Product Details:

List Price: $16.99

Hardcover: 384 pages

Publisher: FaithWords (November 2, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0446538477

ISBN-13: 978-0446538473

AND NOW...Press the Browse Button to Read THE FIRST CHAPTER:

My thoughts: I've read several of Joyce's other books and devotionals and am always excited to read what she publishes. While I haven't come across something super profound each day, there's something to take from each devotional - with some "super profound" ones sprinkled throughout. I'm right now reading her The Confident Woman and Hearing from God Each Morning so Love Out Loud compliments them quite nicely. It helps drive the point home when I come across the same message for the day in each book, days apart from each other. One devotional that stands out to me is titled "What Do You Want?" and it talks about being hungry for God - wanting it more than anything else. I've only been working my way through the book since the beginning of the year but I'm excited at what she'll be sharing for the rest of the year.

book review: "the girl in the gatehouse" by julie klassen

2012-01-26T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Banished from the only home she's ever known, Mariah Aubrey hides herself away in an abandoned gatehouse on a distant relative's estate. There she supports herself and her loyal servant the only way she knows how - by writing novels in secret.

When Captain Matthew Bryant leases the estate, he is intrigued by the beautiful girl in the gatehouse. But there are many things he doesn't know about this beguiling outcast. Will he risk his plans - and his heart - for a woman shadowed by scandal?"

I had a bit of a hard time getting into this book but once I did, I enjoyed it! I felt like there were a lot of names at times, making it hard for me to remember who everyone was but it didn't take away from the story. This was a longer book than most (391 pages) so it gave me the time I needed to get to know the characters and get into it before reaching that point only to have the story almost finished. I'll admit, my two favorite phrases now are "dash it" and "thunder and turf." Both struck me as funny and I laughed out loud each time a character said either. I thought Julie did a great job of fleshing out the characters - even those with minor roles. She weaved a few twists into the story, leaving me satisfied when I finally finished the book.

You can buy the book from Amazon and learn more from Julie's website.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.

(in)courage (in)spired review: dayspring cards & giveaway

2012-01-25T00:00:00.002-05:00

(In)courage is one of my favorite sites. They have so many great things available to encourage women in their everyday walk. Each month they feature a different (in)spired deal where you can request the product and review it on your blog. How fabulous is that? So I participated this month and received some great stuff from Dayspring, a partner of (in)courage. They sent me a pack of "So True" cards, ranging from friendship to birthdays to "hang in there." I also received a box of thank you cards and was surprised with a "I Will Bless You" accordion organizer. I've already passed one of the cards along to a friend and I love the look of them! They have a vintage feel to them and are just super cute. I have plans for who to give a few others to and the rest I'll be keeping for the right moment. I've not ordered anything from Dayspring before but they have some really great stuff - everything from home decor to jewelry to stationary.

Plus, I get to give away a $20 credit to Dayspring (shipping charges will apply and order must be over $20)! To enter, go over to their site and tell me what you'd love to use the credit towards! Leave an e-mail address so I can contact you. Contest ends February 8 at 8:00 p.m. For extra entries become a follower of my blog (+1 entry), tell me how you heard about the giveaway (+1 entry) or comment on any of my other posts (+1 entry).

I received these products from Dayspring for my honest review.

book review: "the chocolate diaries" by karen scalf linamen

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Karen Linamen dishes up a satisfying blend of moxie and mocha, sharing stories from dozens of women who reveal savvy strategies for embracing a sweeter life - even while traveling rocky roads. If you're hungry for more joy, reasons to laugh again, ideas to help you heal, and reliable hope leading to a sweeter future, this journey will leave you satisfied."

The title is what grabbed my attention - being a lover of chocolate and all. I thought the chocolate recipes at the end of each chapter were definitely inspiring. The book was an overall good read though I had it in my mind it would be a little more uplifting than it was. All of the stories were encouraging but I just felt the mood was a little less positive than I would have liked. The story that stood out to me the most was about Karen's friend who made a habit of paying for the people behind her in the drive-thru line. I've done this a few times and have made it a goal of doing it more this year and the feeling is absolutely amazing! Just wondering what's running through the other person's mind? It's a rare thing to have a complete stranger pay for your food. I liked how short each chapter was (about ten pages), making it easy to read a few chapters in a sitting.

I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook Press for my honest review.

book review: Common English Bible & giveaway

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Known for being "built on common ground," the Common English Bible is a collaboration of 120 academic scholars and editors, 77 reading group leaders, and more than 500 average readers from around the world who joined together to clearly translate the Bible's original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek languages into 21st century English. More than half-a-million copies of the Bible are currently in print. It's also available online and in digital formats."

I like the small-ness of the Bible. It's the perfect size to carry with you without being too heavy, yet still easy to read. I immediately highlighted on of my favorite verses as soon as I opened it, eager to see the difference in the translation. It's Jeremiah 29:11-13: "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord; they are plans for peace, not disaster, to give you a future filled with hope. When you call me and come and pray to me, I will listen to you. When you search for me, yes, search for me with all your heart, you will find me." I love how the Message adds "I'll make sure you won't be disappointed" at the end of verse 13 but I like the CEB as well. I don't feel like it reads vastly different than the translations I'm used to but there are a few differences which is the whole point. I enjoy comparing how different translations all say the same thing but in different ways. I like how one will focus on something completely different than another. This is a great Bible to help you delve deeper into the Word of God.

I received a free copy of the CEB from The B & B Media Group and the CEB people giving me a chance to give a copy away! To enter to win a CEB softcover edition, just leave a comment, and e-mail address, telling me your favorite Bible verse. For extra entries, become a follower of my blog (+1 entry), tell me how you found out about this giveaway (+1 entry) or comment on any of my other posts (+1 entry). Contest is for U.S. residents only (CEB rules) and ends on Tuesday, January 31 at 8:00 p.m.

Resources:

CEB website

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Follow on Twitter

Video about the CEB

saturday spotlight: mel with "the crafty scientist"

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've only recently discovered Mel's blog but I'm very excited about what I've seen so far. She has some AMAZING ideas! Just look at these pendants!

Please go look around her blog! She has a post on how to make a paper cone wreath plus lots of other really cool projects!

recipe: s'more cupcakes

2012-01-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

I couldn't find where I posted this before but I just made these and will hopefully be able to spare you from making the same mistakes I did. The cupcakes are still edible but they didn't turn out as I hoped. My original plan was to make giant cupcakes. This meant I wouldn't be able to use liners but I didn't think it would matter. I was wrong. I'm not sure if I underbaked the cupcakes or overbaked them. Either way they didn't want to come out of the pan without a fight. As a result, I spooned out the pieces and put them in a container. I know have a massive pile of s'more-y yumminess - it just doesn't look all that pretty. I had doubled the recipe since I was making bigger cupcakes. After the first pan not working out, I still had enough batter to make 12 normal size cupcakes (and I used liners). However, I still didn't get the time right. I thought they weren't done after 15 minutes and left them in for a little longer. When I checked on them again, they had run out of the liners. I pulled them out and let them cool. I was able to get them out of the pan but they don't look like Bakerella's. I'll add the extra marshmallow and chocolate right before serving them but I'm determined to get it right next time. I wonder if I didn't add enough of the graham cracker batter? Again, now I know what to do differently next time. There are several parts to this recipe - it's not one to try and make it a rush. You can go to Bakerella's site for picture-by-picture instructions.

Cupcakes
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup cocoa
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 cup milk
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 cup oil
6 jumbo marshmallows cut in half, plus more for decorating

Graham Cracker Crumb topping
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup butter, melted

Ganache
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup butter

"Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder and baking soda together with a wire whisk. Separate the mixture in half into two bowls.

Stir cocoa into one bowl and the graham cracker crumbs into the other. Add 1/2 cup milk, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/4 cup oil to the cocoa mixture and beat on medium until combined. Repeat adding the same ingredients to the graham cracker crumb flour mixture.

Prepare the graham cracker crumb topping. Add the brown sugar and crumbs in a small bowl and pour on the melted butter. Stir until combined.

Pour a little graham cracker cake batter into the bottom of your baking cups and then sprinkle the topping mixture lightly on the surface. Place a marshmallow half on top and then cover the marshmallow with the chocolate cake batter until it is about 3/4 full. Sprinkle with more topping mixture.

Bake cupcakes for about 15 minutes. Place a cookie sheet underneath when you bake just in case. I had a little bit ooze over into the oven. Oops.

This recipe will make at least 12 cupcakes. I had a some batter from each left over so you can probably get more like 14-16.

Let cool and top with ganache.

Heat the butter and cream on the stove. Heat until just before it boils. Remove and pour over chocolate. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Pour over cupcakes and add more marshmallows if you desire."

book review: "love blooms in winter" by lori copeland

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Lori Copeland

and the book:

Love Blooms in Winter (The Dakota Diaries)

Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2012)

***Special thanks to
Karri | Marketing Assistant |Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lori Copeland is the author of more than 90 titles, both historical and contemporary fiction. With more than 3 million copies of her books in print, she has developed a loyal following among her rapidly growing fans in the inspirational market. She has been honored with the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and Walden Books' Best Seller award. In 2000, Lori was inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame. She lives in the beautiful Ozarks with her husband, Lance, and their three children and five grandchildren.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

This new romance from bestselling author Lori Copeland portrays God’s miraculous provision when none seems possible. An engagement, a runaway train, and a town of quirky, loveable people make for more adventure than Tom Curtis is expecting. But it is amazing what can bloom in winter with God in charge.

1892—Mae Wilkey’s sweet next-door neighbor, Pauline, is suffering from old age and dementia and desperately needs family to come help her. But Pauline can’t recall having kin remaining. Mae searches through her desk and finds a name—Tom Curtis, who may just be the answer to their prayers.

Tom can’t remember an old aunt named Pauline, but if she thinks he’s a long-lost nephew, he very well may be. After two desperate letters from Mae, he decides to pay a visit. An engagement, a runaway train, and a town of quirky, loveable people make for more of an adventure than Tom is expecting. But it is amazing what can bloom in winter when God is in charge of things.

Product Details:

List Price: $13.99

Paperback: 304 pages

Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0736930191

ISBN-13: 978-0736930192

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Dwadlo, North Dakota, 1892

The winter of ’92 is gonna go down as one of the worst Dwadlo’s ever seen,” Hal Murphy grumbled as he dumped the sack of flour he got for his wife on the store counter. “Mark my words.” He turned toward Mae Wilkey, the petite postmistress, who was stuffing mail in wooden slots.

“Spring can’t come soon enough for me.” She stepped back, straightening the row of letters and flyers. She didn’t have to record Hal’s prediction; it was the same every year. “I’d rather plant flowers than shovel snow any day of the week.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Hal nodded to the store owner, Dale Smith, who stood five foot seven inches with a rounded belly and salt-and-pepper hair swept to a wide front bang. “Add a couple of those dill pickles, will you?” Hal watched as Dale went over to the barrel and fished around inside, coming up with two fat pickles.

“That’ll fix me up.” Hal turned his attention back to the mail cage, his eyes fixed on the lovely sight. “Can’t understand why you’re still single, Mae. You’re as pretty as a raindrop on a lily pad.” He sniffed the air. “And you smell as good.”

Smiling, Mae moved from the letter boxes to the cash box. Icy weather may have delayed the train this morning, but she still had to count money and record the day’s inventory. “Now, Hal, you know I’d marry you in a wink if you weren’t already taken.” Hal and Clara had been married forty-two years, but Mae’s usual comeback never failed to put a sparkle in the farmer’s eye. Truth be, she put a smile on every man’s face, but she wasn’t often aware of the flattering looks she received. Her heart belonged to Jake Mallory, Dwadlo’s up-and-coming attorney.

Hal nodded. “I know. All the good ones are taken, aren’t they?”

She nodded. “Every single one. Especially in Dwadlo.”

The little prairie town was formed when the Chicago & North Western Railroad came through five years ago. Where abundant grass, wild flowers, and waterfalls had once flourished, hundreds of miles of steel rail crisscrossed the land, making way for big, black steam engines that hauled folks and supplies. Before the railroad came through, only three homesteads had dotted the rugged Dakota Territory: Mae’s family’s, Hal and Clara’s, and Pauline Wilson’s.

But in ’87 life changed, and formerly platted sites became bustling towns. Pine Grove and Branch Springs followed, and Dwadlo suddenly thrived with immigrants, opportunists, and adventure-seeking folks staking claims out West. A new world opened when the Dakota Boom started.

Hal’s gaze focused on Mae’s left hand. “Jake still hasn’t popped the question?”

Mae sighed. Hal was a pleasant sort, but she really wished the townspeople would occupy their thoughts with something other than her and Jake’s pending engagement. True, they had been courting for six years and Jake still hadn’t proposed, but she was confident he would. He’d said so, and he was a man of his word—though every holiday, when a ring would have been an appropriate gift, that special token of his intentions failed to materialize. Mae had more lockets than any one woman could wear, but Jake apparently thought that she could always use another one. What she could really use was his hand in marriage. The bloom was swiftly fading from her youth, and it would be nice if her younger brother, Jeremy, had a man’s presence in his life.

“Be patient, Hal. He’s busy trying to establish a business.”

“Good lands. How long does it take a man to open a law office?”

“Apparently six years and counting.” She didn’t like the uncertainty but she understood it, even if the town’s population didn’t. She had a good life, what with work, church, and the occasional social. Jake accompanied her to all public events, came over two or three times a week, and never failed to extend a hand when she needed something. It was almost as though they were already married.

“The man’s a fool,” Hal declared. “He’d better slap a ring on that finger before someone else comes along and does it for him.”

“Not likely in Dwadlo,” Mae mused. The town itself was made up of less than a hundred residents, but other folks lived in the surrounding areas and did their banking and shopping here. Main Street consisted of the General Store, Smith’s Grain and Feed, the livery, the mortuary, the town hall and jail (which was almost always empty), Doc Swede’s office, Rosie’s Café, and an empty building that had once housed the saloon. Mae hadn’t spotted a sign on any business yet advertising “Husbands,” but she was certain her patience would eventually win out.

With a final smile Hal moved off to pay for his goods. Mae hummed a little as she put the money box in the safe. Looking out the window, she noticed a stiff November wind snapping the red canvas awning that sheltered the store’s porch. Across the square, a large gazebo absorbed the battering wind. The usually active gathering place was now empty under a gray sky. On summer nights music played, and the smell of popcorn and roasted peanuts filled the air. Today the structure looked as though it were bracing for another winter storm. Sighing, Mae realized she already longed for green grass, blooming flowers, and warm breezes.

After Hal left Mae finished up the last of the chores and then reached for her warm wool cape. She usually enjoyed the short walk home from work, but today she was tired—and her feet hurt because of the new boots she’d purchased from the Montgomery Ward catalog. On the page they had looked comfortable with their high tops and polished leather, but on her feet they felt like a vise.

Slipping the cape’s hood over her hair, she said goodbye to Dale and then paused when her hand touched the doorknob. “Oh, dear. I really do need to check on Pauline again.”

“How’s she doing?” The store owner paused and leaned on his broom. “I noticed she hasn’t been in church recently.”

Dale always reminded Mae of an owl perching on a tree limb, his big, dark blue eyes swiveling here and there. He might not talk a body’s leg off, but he kept up on town issues. She admired the quiet little man for what he did for the community and respected the way he preached to the congregation on Sundays.

How was Pauline doing? Mae worried the question over in her mind. Pauline lived alone, and she shouldn’t. The elderly woman was Mae’s neighbor, and she checked on her daily, but Pauline was steadily losing ground.

“She’s getting more and more fragile, I’m afraid. Dale, have you ever heard Pauline speak of kin?”

The small man didn’t take even a moment to ponder the question. “Never heard her mention a single word about family of any kind.”

“Hmm…me neither. But surely she must have some.” Someone who should be here, in Dwadlo, looking after the frail soul. Mae didn’t resent the extra work, but the post office and her brother kept her busy, and she really didn’t have the right to make important decisions regarding the elderly woman’s rapidly failing health.

Striding back to the bread rack, she picked up a fresh loaf. Dale had private rooms at the back of the store where he made his home, and he was often up before dawn baking bread, pies, and cakes for the community. Most folks in town baked their own goods, but there were a few, widowers and such, who depended on Dale’s culinary skills. By this hour of the day the goods were usually gone, but a few remained. Placing a cherry pie in her basket as well, she called, “Add these things to my account, please, Dale. And pray for Pauline too.”

Nodding, he continued sweeping, methodically running the stiff broomcorn bristles across the warped wood floor.

The numbing wind hit Mae full force when she stepped off the porch. Her hood flew off her head and an icy gust of air snatched away her breath. Putting down her basket, she retied the hood before setting off for the brief walk home. Dwadlo was laid out in a rather strange pattern, a point everyone agreed on. Businesses and homes were built close together, partly as shelter from the howling prairie winds and partly because there wasn’t much forethought given to town planning. Residents’ homes sat not a hundred feet from the store. The whole community encompassed less than five acres.

Halfway to her house, snowflakes began swirling in the air. Huddling deeper into her wrap, Mae concentrated on the path as the flakes grew bigger.

She quickly covered the short distance to Pauline’s. The dwelling was little more than a front room, tiny kitchen, and bedroom, but she was a small woman. Pauline pinned her yellow-white hair in a tight knot at the base of her skull, and she didn’t have a tooth in her head. She chewed snuff, which she freely admitted was an awful habit, but Mae had never heard her speak of giving it up.

Her faded blue eyes were as round as buttons, and no matter what kind of day she was having, it was always a new one to her, filled with wonders. Her mind wasn’t what it used to be. She had good and bad days, but mostly days when her moods changed as swift as summer lightning. She could be talking about tomatoes in the garden patch when suddenly she would be discussing how to spin wool.

Mae noted a soft wisp of smoke curling up from the chimney and smiled. Pauline had remembered to feed the fire this afternoon, so this was a good day.

Unlatching the gate, she followed the path to the front porch. In summertime the white railings hung heavy with red roses, and the scent of honeysuckle filled the air. This afternoon the wind howled across the barren flower beds Pauline carefully nurtured during warmer weather. Often she planted okra where petunias should be, but she enjoyed puttering in the soil and the earth loved her. She brought fresh tomatoes, corn, and beans to the store during spring and summer, and pumpkins and squash lined the railings in the fall.

In earlier days Pauline’s quilts were known throughout the area. She and her quilting group had made quite a name for themselves when Dwadlo first became a town. Four women excelled in the craft. One had lived in Pine Grove, and two others came from as far away as Branch Springs once a month to break bread together and stitch quilts. But one by one the women had died off, leaving Pauline to sew alone in her narrowing world.

Stomping her boots on the porch, Mae said under her breath, “I don’t mind winter, Lord, but could we perhaps have a little less of it?” The only answer was the wind whipping her garments. Tapping lightly on the door, she called, “Pauline?”

Mae stepped back and waited to hear the shuffle of feet. Pauline used to answer the door in less than twenty seconds. It took longer now. Mae made a fist with her gloved hand and banged a little harder. The wind howled around the cottage eaves. She closed her eyes and prayed that Jeremy had remembered to stack sufficient firewood beside the kitchen door. The boy was generally responsible, and she thanked God every day that she had him to lean on. He had been injured by forceps during birth, which left him with special needs. He was a very happy fourteen-year-old with the reasoning power of a child of nine.

A full minute passed. Mae frowned and tried the doorknob. Pauline couldn’t hear herself yell in a churn, but she might also be asleep. The door opened easily, and Mae peeked inside the small living quarters. She saw that a fire burned low in the woodstove, and Pauline’s rocking chair sat empty.

Stepping inside, she closed the door and called again. “Pauline? It’s Mae!”

The ticking of the mantle clock was the only sound that met her ears.

“Pauline?” She lowered her hood and walked through the living room. She paused in the kitchen doorway.

“Oh, Pauline!”

My thoughts: I'm a Lori Copeland fan so I was excited to read this! While I enjoyed the story, I have other titles of hers that I've liked better. I just felt like it was missing something to completely pull me in. I liked Mae and Tom but maybe I feel as if there was a lot of building up to them admitting their feelings before all the loose ends had to be tied. I did think the ending was very cute when Tom used the telegraph to propose...in a roundabout way :) Overall, a good read.

starbucks

2012-01-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'm wanting to be deliberate this year. In everything I do, I want to be deliberate. One of my goals for 2012 is to do random acts of kindness for others. Maybe it's giving someone a grocery card or a Starbucks card - some times it might be a sacrifice while others I won't even miss the money. The whole point is to take the focus off of me and sow into someone else. It was very cool to read about this very idea in The Chocolate Diaries by Karen Scalf Linamen. Karen talks about her friend who once a week would pay for the car behind her in the drive-thru at Starbucks. I don't know if you've ever done this but there's such a feeling of excitement that comes over you when you pay for a stranger's food! "...it gave Ronlyn a renewed sense of hope. Even though she was still living in her private quarters of stress and hurt, she had discovered a window to a happier world. And the more she created happiness for others, the more she found the courage to believe that happiness could exist in her future too." Ronlyn even had the favor returned one day when she pulled up to the window only to be told her order was paid for! I want to make this a year of blessing others - constantly planting seeds so a harvest is always coming.

what i've been up to

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've been pretty crafty lately :) I've made several scarves and done a few diy projects.

Top right is a scarf I just finished. This didn't even take a whole skein to make. I used a 41 peg loom but only knitted on 18 of them. I used size 4 (5 oz.)"Sundrop" Caron yarn. Using the 5 oz. yarn on such a large loom makes it feel lightweight. Top left is a lanyard I made with the same yarn. I used a 25 peg loom but only knitted on 3 pegs. The yarn naturally folds - I'm thinking this would also make fun necklaces :) The length ended up being too long so I tied loose knots every few inches or so until it was the length I wanted. The two ends that you would normally weave back into the material I knotted around a key ring. I have to wear a badge for work so I'm going to clip it on the key ring there you have it :) Bottom right is a decorative piece. The feather-like things were used as centerpieces for a dinner I went to last month. They were giving them away so I took a few. I had an empty jar I put them in but it still needed something. I bought a bag of silver rocks to fill the jar with and it's now sitting on my bookshelf. Bottom left is my result of following a recipe for chocolate chip cookie dough truffles.

saturday spotlight: tristin and sharon with "two girls being crafty"

2012-01-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

I found out about Two Girls Being Crafty from My Home Sweet Home and one of her re-cap posts. She showed this picture

of a tutorial on how to make this...and I knew I needed to know more about these girls! They have some super cool ideas - ideas I'm putting on my "I need to make this because it's so cool" list :)

voxbox december survey

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

Influenster is a site that mails you a free box of products in exchange for your honest review. It doesn't get any better than that :) I received my first box back in June and got another one last month. Here's what came in my box:

1. imPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails (image source)

The design I received is called "TGIF." I absolutely LOVE the variety of designs! What I didn't like is that the nails don't come in different widths. I think most of them fit my nails except for the thumbs. These have glue already on them and you just pull off the backing before applying. To me, this made them not stick as well as applying the glue myself. These are great for a special occasion but not for everyday. I love how shiny the nails are. I like the product but not overly impressed with it. By going to the imPRESS site, you can print off a $1 coupon and try them for yourself.

2. Softsoap Coconut Scrub Bar Soap

I actually am using the Coconut Scrub body wash right now so it was fun to receive the bar soap. I normally buy whatever is the cheapest when it comes to bar soap but really like this one! I like how it lathers and doesn't have an overpowering coconut smell. I'd definitely buy this!

3. Mentos Pure Fresh Gum

I normally buy Orbit Wintermint gum. I liked the burst of mint when you first start chewing the Mentos gum. Like most gums, the flavor doesn't last all that long. I would put this on par with Orbit. I liked it but didn't think it super amazing.

4. LARABAR

I tried the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip flavor but wasn't overly impressed. It had a unusual taste. If you're a fan of health bars then I'm sure you'd enjoy it but it wasn't for me.

5. New York Color Liquid Lip Shine

I was sent "Nude York City" and LOVE it! I love the subtle color and how shiny it is. It lasts a long time and I like the smell - sort of cinnamon-y. I would definitely buy this once I use it all!

6. Montagne Jeunesse Face Mask

I was sent a "Pulped Pomegranate" peel off mask. I prefer peels to those that you rinse off. I was very pleased with this product. It was thick enough to make me feel I was really covering my face and it was easy to peel off (I've used some that turned into a big mess). It left my face feeling clean and I'd definitely try it again.

as fast as she can

2012-01-11T00:00:00.001-05:00

I don't normally watch How I Met Your Mother but I was flipping channels not too long ago and came in on the last few minutes. I watched this final scene of the episode and absolutely loved it! I apologize for the poor quality but it was hard to find just this clip. This can apply for anything you may be going through. Maybe you're waiting for the right job or a future spouse or waiting on the ability to have a baby or have enough money to go on a trip - whatever it may be. Take comfort in the fact that God's not forgotten you and has the most amazing plan for your life. Whatever you're believing for, it's coming...as fast as it can :) And if I can agree with you on your "whatever," you can either email me or leave a comment below. That whole "if two or more agree" thing...

knitty gritty: scarves

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

I showed some pictures the other day of the scarves I've recently made. In case you're a fellow knitter, here's the details for each:

2 skeins of size 6, "Pittsburgh Yellow" Lion Brand yarn. I used a 41 peg loom but only knitted on 15 of the pegs. I loved the thickness of the yarn.

Because I didn't go completely around the loom, I ended up with different patterns on each side of the scarf. I actually think the contrast looks pretty cool.

1 skein of size 4, "Aran Fleck" Red Heart yarn. I used 8 mm, size 11 needles and I think the scarf was 15 stitches (no more than 20).

I wanted to use the bigger needles to give the scarf a sort of messy look. However, my stitches were very loose when I first casted on and you can see the difference between that and the other end where I binded off. Again, I kind of think the difference adds something to it but it was a gift so I'm not the one wearing it :)

1 skein of size 4, "Frosty Green Fleck" Red Heart yarn. I used a 25 peg loom but only knitted on 24 of the pegs. I didn't want it to be completely closed off. Again, since I didn't use the whole loom, I have the different textures on each side. Using the whole skein makes it the perfect length to be able to wear in a slip knot without it being too short.

Happy knitting!

saturday spotlight: kristen with "goodknit kisses"

2012-01-07T00:00:00.001-05:00

Kristen has so many great ideas! I found out about her blog when I needed to learn how to bind off using a round loom. I came across her youtube channel and she totally saved the day for me! She has a knitting blog, free patterns, as well as other goodies. Look at this super cute hat she made! It's for a newborn but I'm thinking I want one too!

tweet of the week

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Hollywood paparazzi has absolutely nothing on parents of second graders at the Christmas performance." - Jon Acuff

book giveaway: "love food and live well" by chantell hobbs

2012-01-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Soham for winning my copy of The Strange Man by Greg Mitchell!

This month I'm giving away a copy of Love Food and Live Well by Chantel Hobbs. Contest will end on Tuesday, January 31 at 8:00 p.m. To enter, just leave me a comment along with an email address so I can contact you.

For bonus entries:
- tell me how you heard about my giveaway
- become a follower of my blog

*Giveaways with the above logo are books that aren't new but still in really good condition.

finish year goals

2012-01-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

I've been talking about Finish Year and am excited to share what I've come up with for the year. There are other things I want to accomplish beside this list but this is my top 12. I wanted to post a picture of goals because I used different fonts and just had fun with it but you can view it here. I printed it on bright yellow cardstock and want to put it in a black frame. I've got a notebook I'm going to write in as I accomplish these goals. I want to be able to look back and see how achieving these things affected me. Some are fun while some are really going to stretch me.

1. Revise current query letter & submit to 5 literary agents.
2. Submit 2 posts to (in)courage.
3. Knit a blanket.
4. Read all of my review books (I have 10-15 books on my shelf that I got behind on).
5. Do a random act of kindness twice a month (be it giving someone a grocery or gas card or paying for the person behind me in the drive-thru - just sowing into someone else).
6. Listen to one podcast/sermon a month – something to feed me spiritually.
7. Make 5 DIY projects.
8. Comment on one blog a week. If I want others to read my blog, I need to return the favor.
9. Write 50 thank you cards.
10. Go to 5 events to meet new people (maybe it's church related or not. It's just the chance to step out of my comfort zone and make new friends).
11. Put money in savings account each month – anything is more than nothing.
12. Lead 1 person to the Lord.

2011

2011-12-31T00:00:00.000-05:00

This has been a good year. I've done some fun stuff but am soooo excited for next year. I've just finished my Finish Year list and will share that next week. I'm excited at being able to accomplish some really cool things and have just an overall excitement for 2012. I'm believing for God to do some amazing things and am pumped about it!

Some things that I did this year:
- saw Jonny Lang in concert for the first time

- jumped off a boulder into the water really far below - I felt this was a "now I can say I've done this" moment

- went to the beach - it was our first serious family vacation in a long time!
- had the privilege of hearing Aquila Nash speak
- was able to meet Ryan Stevenson at a concert he was part of at my church

Next year is going to be crazy awesome! By focusing on smaller goals instead of really great sounding how-can-I-possibly-make-this-happen goals, it's going to be very cool to see how God works things out. Next year is going to be different than any other year because whereas I've always made resolutions for each year, this time I'll be actually able to achieve them. A whole lot of smaller steps eventually add up :)

by hand

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've recently started knitting and am excited to show what I've been up to! I was able to make two scarves for Christmas gifts and one for me as well. I've also learned how to use a loom and am LOVING it! It's tons faster than needles though I do enjoy using those as well. I'll go into details about the size loom and needles, number of stitches and kind of yarn I used later but I'm so excited at how these turned out! If you knit as well, I'd love any advice or tips you may have :) I just love being able to make things by hand - it's something I want to do more of next year.

finish year

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

I subscribe to a lot of blogs - it's actually probably something I need to work on purging because I just don't have the time to read them all but one that I enjoy reading is Jon Acuff. His posts are honest and thought-provoking. A few days ago he introduced the idea of Finish Year and I'm all for it. I always write out goals for the coming year but my problem is that I think too big. I write down these goals that I have no idea how to achieve instead of working on the stepping stones that would lead to those dreams. For instance, I want to be a published author. Last year I wrote down "to be published" and yet I've done nothing this year to work towards that. Jon gave the example of a friend who wants to get married. Instead of that being a goal, he's going to focus on asking at least three girls out. It's all about making it do-able instead of overwhelming. Finish Year is about focusing on attainable goals that will eventually add up to bigger ones and that's exactly what I need for 2012. This isn't a complete list of my Finish Year goals but a starting point:

- write at least two posts for (in)courage (I'm excited because I already have the idea for one of these!)

- edit my current query letter and submit to at least five literary agents

- comment on at least one other blog a week (I have a theory that if I want people to read and comment on my blog, I need to return the favor)

This is nowhere near my whole list but what I could think of off the top of my head. These three are all writing related so I haven't even listed personal and spiritual goals. I'll be sure to post my complete list once I'm finished. I can't begin working on these goals if I don't have them written down :) What about you? What would you like to accomplish next year?

daily readings 2012

2011-12-26T17:29:00.003-05:00

I was going to spend this week's posts reviewing this year by sharing book reviews and recipes, etc. But I've decided to go in a different direction. I'll share my thoughts from this year later this week but today's post I want to share the books I'll be reading for daily devotionals next year. Maybe one will stick out to you and you'll read along with me. I like devotionals because they're short reads and it's always cool for me when I'm reading similar thoughts in each one or the reading will coincide with something my pastor has said recently or be relevant in some other way.

- Love Out Loud by Joyce Meyer
- Hearing From God Each Morning by Joyce Meyer
- The Confident Woman by Joyce Meyer (I'm already reading this but continuing with it into next year)
- A Year with C.S. Lewis
- Experiencing God Day-By-Day by Henry and Richard Blackaby

I'm excited about all of these books for different reasons. The last one I wasn't planning on reading. I've read it three times, the last time 2007. I came across the book today and was reading my thoughts on some of the daily readings. I thought it would be good for me to go through it once more and see where I was at those other points in my life compared to now. I think all of these will be great books to encourage me and grow me. I'll probably share things on here that jump out at me so be ready :)

don't leave!

2011-12-23T23:26:00.004-05:00

So I've been having issues with my home internet, making it hard for me to post. I had all of my ideas ready to share with you but technology had other plans :( I'm working on getting it fixed - thank you for sticking with me - and super excited about 2012! It's going to be a great year and an awesome journey! Thanks for coming along with me :)

saturday spotlight: alison with "ingredients, inc."

2011-12-17T00:00:00.000-05:00

Alison has some great recipes. Some really great recipes :) I first became a fan when she introduced me to her cookie dough truffles. She has some amazing recipes out right now that I'm very excited to try. Like her molten cake in a mug or her peppermint dark hot chocolate mix. Take a look at her yummy blog for yourself!

unto others

2011-12-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago I went with our youth ministry to help serve food to the homeless. We partnered with a local non profit organization. We knew it would be cold so we bundled up, loaded a bus and headed out. It's so cool to see the teens step out of their comfort zones (and leaders too :) to serve others. We helped distribute clothes and blankets as well as food. This is the second time we've done this and it's just a great way to forget about ourselves for a few hours and think about other people. These teens are seeing people their own age living on the streets and I hope they walk away realizing how blessed they are to have a warm bed and a home to go to. I want to always be thankful for what I have and never take it for granted.

"And the King shall answer and say unto them, verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." - Matthew 25:40

enough

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

I just finished a group book study of Beth Moore's So Long Insecurity. The time together was just as good for me as reading the book itself. I'm still working on finishing the book but I've been thinking about it lately. The study guide is great to do along with the book because it just helps you get more from the reading. One chapter talked about women in our own lives we look up to and why. The study guide asked the question about the kind of legacy we want to leave and what knowledge we would want to pass on to younger women. I think about the girls I work with in the youth ministry at my church. And I think about what I would want to say to them. I would want them to know that they're enough. That they don't have to be anything more than who they already are in order to get a guy's attention. That there's nothing wrong with them and how God made them. They don't need to be taller or thinner or have a super cool accent in order to be loved more. They're beautiful just the way they are. I would want them to stop looking for fulfillment and purpose in a guy and instead find it in God. I would want them to stop feeling as though they have to try so hard to be accepted. I would want them to know they're not a disappointment or a failure - not a mistake or an accident. I would want them to know how much God loves them and that He has a beautiful plan for them. He's not forgotten them or too busy to care. They're enough.

recipe: brownie banana bread cupcakes with brown sugar cream cheese frosting

2011-12-12T00:00:00.002-05:00

I made these last month and oh. my. Not only is the picture amazing but they tasted pretty good too :) I had a little trouble with the frosting setting - mine was more of a "pour on and then lick your fingers after" as opposed to "frost like a cupcake and look pretty" consistency. I got the recipe from How Sweet It Is (that's her picture too) - great food blog (as well as her other random thoughts). There are several steps involved but well worth the effort :)

Brownie Layer
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 heaping tablespoons of cocoa powder
- pinch of salt
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips, lightly tossed in flour

"Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until fluffy – about 3-4 minutes. Add egg and vanilla, and mix until combined, scraping down the bowl a few times. With the mixer on medium speed, add in flour, salt and cocoa powder, mixing until just combined. Line a cupcake tin with liners, then spoon about 1/2-3/4 of a tablespoon of brownie batter in each cup. Press down with the back of a spoon coated in non-stick spray."

Cupcake Layer
- 1 1/3 cups flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- pinch of nutmeg
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, melted

"Combine dry flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and nutmeg and set aside. In a bowl, whisk egg and add brown sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Add sour cream and melted butter and mix. Stir in dry ingredients, then add mashed bananas and mix until batter comes together. The batter will be thicker than normal cupcakes. Using an ice cream scoop or 1/4 cup measure, scoop batter in liners over top of brownie batter. Bake for 15-18 minutes, then let cool completely before frosting."

Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
- 3/4 cups of butter (1 1/2 sticks), at room temperature
- 8 ounces (1 brick) of cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 3/4 cup loosely packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

"Beat butter and cream cheese in the bowl of your electric mixer until completely combined and creamy, scraping down the sides a few times. Add in brown sugar and powdered sugar, beating on low speed and gradually increasing to medium speed. Add in vanilla extract. Beat frosting for 4-5 minutes on medium-high speed until really creamy and combined. This frosting is not very thick or study, so make sure to either frost immediately before eating, or keep in the refrigerator for up until 30 minutes before serving."

saturday spotlight: glenna with "knitting to stay sane"

2011-12-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've just recently started knitting. It's something I've always thought would be pretty cool to learn but never had the motivation to research what kind of yarn I would need or what size needles. But finally, finally someone gave me the push I needed and helped me get started with the basics. I'm working on my first scarf and super excited to be able to show it off once it's finished :)

I'm also looking at connecting with those who have vastly more knowledge on the subject than I do which brings me to Glenna and her blog. I haven't explored her site a whole lot yet but she's definitely got my attention with this hat she recently made:

Since I'm still working on the basics, just the idea of using two colors amazes me. Glenna has some great ideas - go have a look!

tweet of the week

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Shout out to the guy who waves a hanky during your sermon...he's just trying to get a rally going." - Matthew Barnett

book review: "to win her heart" by karen witemeyer

2011-12-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

About the book: "Having completed his sentence for the unintentional crime that derailed his youthful plans for fame and fortune, Levi Grant looks to start over in the town of Spencer, Texas. Spencer needs a blacksmith, a trade he learned at his father's knee, and he needs a place where no one knows his past. But small towns leave little room for secrets...

Eden Spencer has sworn off men, choosing instead to devote her time to the lending library she runs. When a mountain-sized stranger walks through her door and asks to borrow a book, she steels herself against the attraction he provokes. His halting speech and hesitant manner leave her doubting his intelligence. Yet as the mysteries of the town's new blacksmith unfold, Eden discovers hidden depths in him that tempt her heart.

Levi's renewed commitment to his faith leads Eden to believe she's finally found a man of honor and integrity, a man worthy of her love. But when the truth about his prodigal past comes to light, can this tarnished hero find a way to win back the librarian's affections?"

My review: I really liked this book! It's the first I've read by Witemeyer even though I'm familiar with her other titles. The cover is what initially got my attention - I think it's super cute. The story took a few unexpected turns but had the kind of ending leaving me smiling. I enjoyed the character of Levi - I thought he was sweet and liked how Witemeyer made him seem believable. She showed his struggle to move beyond his past and start a new life. I immediately connected with Eden since she and I both share a love of books. I also smiled at when Levi said he would simply come back each day to read until he could check them out. Just watching their relationship develop was very sweet. This was a great, light read!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. You can learn more about the book from Karen Witemeyer's website.

recipe: mini chocolate cheesecakes

2011-12-05T00:00:00.002-05:00

I made these last week and while I wasn't prepared for the total time involved, I thought they turned out well. As usual, I learned from the experience of what to do differently next time but they were definite crowd pleasers for the party I took them to. I found this recipe from the Betty Crocker website. One of the things I like about the site is being able to print out just the ingredients needed (super handy when making a trip to the store). I've not made cheesecake before so I had to really keep an eye on the these so I wouldn't bake them too long. I think I ended up leaving them in for close to thirty minutes and they turned out fine. Tackling the whipped cream was another matter. I stuck the bowl in the freezer so it would firm up and ended up leaving it in too long. In my attempt to unthaw it, it became too thin. I had to buy a can of spray whip cream and then added mini chocolate chips on top instead of an Oreo. Hopefully you can take something away from my experience and have a better result :)

I'm thinking about making mini bite-size versions of this and using mini oreos with it.

Ingredients
Cheesecakes
9 creme-filled chocolate sandwich cookies or 18 vanilla wafer cookies
2 packages (8 ounces each) plus 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 eggs

Whipped Cream
3/4 cup whipping (heavy) cream
2 tablespoons granulated or powdered sugar

"Heat oven to 350ºF. Line 18 medium muffin cups, 2 1/2x1 1/4 inches, with paper baking cups. Split sandwich cookies in half. Place 1 cookie half, middle side up, in each cup. Or place 1 wafer cookie, flat side down, in each cup.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually beat in 1 cup sugar and the cocoa until fluffy. Beat in vanilla. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until well blended. Divide evenly among cups (cups will be almost full).

Bake cheesecakes 20 to 25 minutes or until centers are firm. Cool 15 minutes (cheesecake centers will sink while cooling). Refrigerate in muffin cups at least 1 hour; cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour longer before serving.

In chilled small bowl, beat all Whipped Cream ingredients with electric mixer on high speed until stiff. Spoon Whipped Cream on chilled cheesecakes. Cover and refrigerate any remaining cheesecakes."

saturday spotlight: alison sweet

2011-12-03T00:00:00.003-05:00

"Alison Sweet, your place to find up-cycled, eco-conscious accessories. All items are made with donated and found cotton/jersey materials. Super soft and light weight. Perfect to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Designs and fabrics will change regularly. If you like it, buy it because it's not guaranteed to be here tomorrow. But, sometimes I have enough material for one more. Want to up- cycle your own t-shirt into a new favorite accessory? I love custom orders! I've turned in some of my softest tshirts into the softest scarves."

From now until December 22, you can get 15% off your entire purchase from Alison by using the code FALL15. Perfect for any Christmas shopping you might have!

This is her super cute Ivory Flower Infinity Scarf - love it!

You can learn more about Alison at her Etsy shop and her blog. You can follow her on Twitter and also find her on Facebook.

book giveaway: "the strange man" by greg mitchell

2011-12-02T00:00:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Jessica for winning Never Let You Go by Erin Healy!

This month I'm giving away a copy of The Strange Man by Greg Mitchell. Contest will end on Friday, December 30 at 8:00 p.m.

For bonus entries:
- tell me how you heard about my giveaway
- become a follower of my blog

*Giveaways with the above logo are books that aren't new but still in really good condition.

tweet of the week

2011-11-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

"One of my Pre-K kiddos was dancing to the Michael Jackson music playing in his head during breakfast. Made my day :)" - one of my tweets when I was working with a Pre-K class.

busy bee

2011-11-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

So life is a little busy right now. I'm not complaining because I'm excited about everything that's going on but it's definitely causing me to be creative with my time as I try to fit it all in. Blogging would fall under the "trying to fit it all in" category. I have some ideas for upcoming posts and want to get back to sharing from my heart - it's just a matter of making time for it. I'm hoping that when the Christmas program at my church is over I'll have some extra time to play around with. I have some fun blogs I want to share as well as recipes and book reviews. I'm looking forward to what's to come next year with Snidbits. Thanks so much for sticking with me and being a part of it!

saturday spotlight: kate with "centsational girl"

2011-11-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've only recently discovered Centsational Girl (thanks to Sugarbelle) and really like her site! She has some really, really cool ideas and I'm super excited to try some of them!

For example, her recent post on recycling sweaters into amazing pillows!

Please take a few minutes to look around her site and you can also subscribe to have new posts emailed to you. I noticed she's had some giveaways lately so hey, you might win something fun :)

happy turkey day!

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has an absolutely wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving!

tweet of the week

2011-11-22T19:32:00.001-05:00

"Go ahead! Let your faith run wild." - Matthew Barnett

book review: "forbidden" by ted dekker & tosca lee

2011-11-20T14:14:00.003-05:00

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card authors are:

Ted Dekker
and
Tosca Lee

and the book:

Forbidden

Center Street (September 13, 2011)

***Special thanks to Sarah Reck, Web Publicist | FaithWords & Center Street | Hachette Book Group, for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

TED DEKKER is a New York Times bestselling author of more than twenty novels with a total of more than 5 million books in print. He is known for thrillers that combine adrenaline-laced plots with incredible confrontations between good and evil.

Visit the author's website.

TOSCA LEE left her position working with Fortune 500 Companies as a Senior Consultant for the Gallup Organization to pursue her first love: writing. She is the critically-acclaimed author of Demon and Havah and is best known for her humanizing portraits of maligned characters. She makes her home in the Midwest.

Visit the author's website.

Check out the Forbidden Facebook!

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Many years have passed since civilization's brush with apocalypse. The world's greatest threats have all been silenced. There is no anger, no hatred, no war. There is only perfect peace... and fear. But a terrible secret has been closely guarded for centuries: Every single soul walking the earth, though in appearance totally normal, is actually dead, long ago genetically stripped of true humanity.

Fleeing pursuit, with only moments to live, a young man named Rom stumbles into possession of a vial of blood and a piece of cryptic writing. When consumed, the blood will bring him back to life. When decoded, the message will lead him on a perilous journey that will require him to abandon everything he has ever known and awaken humanity to the transforming power of true life and love.

But the blood will also resurrect hatred, ambition, and greed.

Set in a terrifying, medieval future, where grim pageantry masks death, this tale of dark desires and staggering stakes peels back the layers of the heart for all who dare to take the ride.

Product Details:

List Price: $24.99
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: Center Street (September 13, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599953544
ISBN-13: 978-1599953540

AND NOW...CLICK ON THE OPEN BOOK WIDGET TO VIEW THE FIRST CHAPTER:

My review: I've only read one Ted Dekker book but have read several by Tosca Lee so I was excited for the opportunity to read a collaborative effort by the two of them.

I liked this book! I read Immanuel's Veins by Dekker last year and wasn't overly crazy about it. I could see some similarities between that book and this one but I could also see Lee's influence (mainly from her book Demon) and thought they balanced each other out very well. The book had the whole good vs. evil and a strong emphasis on blood (as was the case in the other Dekker book I've read) but there was also a sprinkle of romance and lots of action. I found myself pulled into the story and eagerly turning each page, wondering what would happen next. Forbidden is the first in the The Books of Mortals series and I'm looking forward to the next book, due to come out next year.

saturday spotlight: "the sweet adventures of sugarbelle"

2011-11-19T00:00:00.001-05:00

I was looking through my un-read emails today and found this post that has had me excited all day! For me, presentation is just as important as the baking itself so knowing I can make my own cake and cookie stands is just the best news! She got the idea from Centsational Girl. I love Sugarbelle's ideas for cookies - they're amazing! She is super creative with how she makes cookies - they're all absolutely adorable.

tweet of the week

2011-11-18T00:00:00.001-05:00

"The enemy is more sneaky than the guy at church who sits by the girl he likes because he knows the pastor will say, "join hands."' - Matthew Barnett

book review: "the story of your life" by matthew west & angela thomas

2011-11-15T00:00:00.000-05:00

Today's Wild Card authors are:

Matthew West
and
Angela Thomas

and the book:

The Story of Your Life

Harvest House Publishers (September 1, 2011)

***Special thanks to Karri James of Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Matthew West is a recording artist whose singles have topped the charts and been named Billboard’s Most Played Christian Songs in 2004, 2009, and 2010. “The Motions” also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Gospel Song in 2010. His albums have sold more than 275,000 copies.

Visit the Matthew's website.

Angela Thomas is a sought-after speaker, teacher, and bestselling author of Do You Think I’m Beautiful, My Single Mom Life, Prayers for My Baby Boy, and Prayers for My Baby Girl. She inspires thousands at national conferences, workshops, and through video studies that she filmed and wrote including When Wallflowers Dance.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

When Grammy-nominated recording artist Matthew West started writing his top-selling new album, The Story of Your Life (Sparrow, 2010) he asked fans to submit personal experiences. More than 10,000 tales of hope, perseverance, and redemption poured in. With friend and author Angela Thomas, West presents some of these powerful stories paired with meaningful devotions they inspired.

Wendy gave birth to her daughter in jail. When all seemed hopeless, she found God and her life transformed into something beautiful.

Cory, a married youth pastor, had an affair and his life fell apart. With God’s mercy, he and his wife gathered the broken pieces and started again.

Sheila always struggled with severe insecurity. Now she lives confidently in the purpose God has for her.

This unforgettable devotional journey inspires readers to discover God as the author of their unique lives and to share the power of their story.

Also available this season—a companion DVD of the same title and an interactive standalone guide Experiencing the Story of Your Life, which allows readers to personalize and explore more deeply the messages of God’s hope and redemption in their stories.

Before Grammy-nominated recording artist Matthew West wrote his top-selling new album, The Story of Your Life, he asked fans to submit their faith stories. Thousands of powerful tales of hope and redemption poured in. Now West and author Angela Thomas share these amazing stories and the meaningful devotions they inspired.

Product Details:

List Price: $13.99
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (September 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736943986
ISBN-13: 978-0736943987

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Who is the Author
of Your Story?

From Lajos …

I grew up in Communist Hungary and escaped in 1987 at age 21. I went to a refugee camp as an atheist who mocked Christians, and 18 months later I came out of it turning my life over to Christ. It was a trying, dramatic, and sometimes traumatic experience. But in the middle of what should have been my most hopeless days and nights, I could not deny the overwhelming feeling that I was not alone and the peace that came along with it.

I went to Canada in 1988. Starting a new life in a new country as a 23-year-old was truly challenging. Without my newly found faith, I probably could not have done it. Now I am following Christ and serving Him by going on mission trips. I want the world to know there is a God, a God who is with us in our darkest moments.

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands (Psalm 19:1).

The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers of rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together (Colossians 1:15-17).

…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith…(Hebrews 12:2 nasb).

Matthew Responds …

Who is the author of your story? How did you get here? Do you see the world as nothing more than one big coincidence after another? Did the oceans just tell themselves they could go only so far? Did the sun just appear out of nowhere? What about all the billions of stars in the galaxies or the intricate design of a human life? Is there an answer for all these questions?

When your eyes see a majestic snowcapped mountain climbing a mile high in the Rockies, does the experience leave you awestruck and amazed? When you hold a newborn baby in your arms, are you filled with wonder as you touch the tiny hands and toes and ears? When you witness a great big world with billions of people moving in billions of directions, does your heart scream, “This can’t be mere coincidence! This could not be the work of human hands! There’s no way this all just happened!”

Even the English astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle concluded, “The chance that higher life forms might have emerged in this way is comparable with the chance that ‘a tornado sweeping through a junk yard might assemble a Boeing 747 from the materials therein.’ ”

Sadly, more and more people are choosing the former way of thinking. In fact, many studies and polls report that atheism is on the rise both in America and around the world. This really should come as no surprise in a society that places so much emphasis on self-sufficiency. Nike prompted us, “Just Do It.” Burger King invited us, “Have It Your Way.” Apple Computers promised their products would give us “The Power to Be Your Best.”

In our world, all signs point to the notion that you and I are the ones who write the stories of our lives. And so people are choosing to believe there is nothing to believe in. Atheists believe there is no God. And to believe there is no God is to believe we are the authors of our own stories. Yet how can we be the authors of a story we never created? You were not the one who came up with the idea to create you. The decision of whether to believe in God is the foundation that every soul will build its story upon. The story of your life is being written every moment of every day, even as you read this right now. The question you must ask is, who is holding the pen?

In his book The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren begins his very first chapter by establishing where we must first look if we are to find a story with true purpose.

You must begin with God, your Creator. You exist only because God wills that you exist. You were made by God and for God—and until you understand that, life will never make sense. It is only in God we discover our origin, our identity, our meaning, our purpose, our significance, and our destiny. Every other path leads to a dead end.

Warren goes on to tell the story of Russian novelist, Andrei Bitov who had a similar experience to our story of Lajos.

Andrei…grew up under an atheistic Communist regime. But God got his attention one dreary day. He recalls, “In my twenty-seventh year, while riding the metro in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) I was overcome with a despair so great that life seemed to stop at once, preempting the future entirely, let alone any meaning. Suddenly, all by itself, a phrase appeared: Without God life makes no sense. Repeating it in astonishment, I rode the phrase up like a moving staircase, got out of the metro and walked into God’s light.”

There it is. Without God life makes no sense. Without God our stories have no meaning, no purpose. We live, we die, and that’s it. Our stories end when we die. Oh, what a sad existence if this is true. I once wrote a lyric in a song called “The World Needs a Savior” that reads, “Atheists, there are no atheists when the plane’s going down and you’re crying out for one more chance.” I wrote that line thinking about the reality that when people face crisis, they reach out for help. When our nation, which fights for separation of church and state, fell victim to the terrorist attacks on 9/11, we came together to pray.

I remember something my mom often did when I was a kid and we were in the car. Anytime she was forced to slam on her brakes or swerve out of the way to avoid an accident, her knee-jerk reaction was to stretch her arm out across whoever was sitting in the front seat, either my brother or me, and shout a prayer: “Jesus, help us!” My mom is a praying woman. She always has been, both in times of triumph and times of crisis. She knows whom she can call upon. She knows the all-knowing and all-powerful God. She knows that God hears us when we call out to Him in a whisper of praise or a cry for help.

Whom do you call out to in times of crisis? Lajos was once convinced God did not exist. But in the middle of his loneliest, most desperate hour, this “atheist who mocked Christians” cried out to Jesus. “I could not deny the overwhelming feeling that I was not alone and the peace that came along with it,” he said as the undeniable presence of our Creator turned this atheist into a believer. Lajos handed over the pen right then and there, choosing to make God the author of his story.

Maybe you are thinking, “This doesn’t apply to me. I believe in God. I’m no atheist.” Well, let me leave you with this one question. Who is really holding the pen? It is possible to believe in God, go to church, tithe, and do all the things Christians do without fully submitting the story of your life to the true “author and finisher” of our faith. It is a daily struggle to determine who holds the pen, but surrendering our stories to the One who “holds all things together” is the only true way for the stories of our lives to be filled with meaning and purpose.

book review: "a lasting impression" by tamera alexander

2011-11-13T22:53:00.004-05:00

About the book: "Claire Laurent's greatest aspiration is to paint something that will bring her acclaim. Yet her father insists she work as a copyist. A forger. When she's forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville only a year after the War Between the States has ended, her path collides with attorney Sutton Monroe. She considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But after he later refuses to come to her aid, Claire fears she's sorely misjudged the man. Finding herself among the elite of Nashville's society, Claire believes her dream to create a lasting impression in the world of art is within reach--but only if her fraudulent past remains hidden.

The Federal Army has destroyed Sutton's home and confiscated his land, and threatens to destroy his family's honor. His determination to reclaim what belongs to him and to right a grievous wrong reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined--as well as the woman he loves.

Set at Nashville's historic Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built by Mrs. Adelicia Acklen, A Lasting Impression is a sweeping love story about a nation mending after war, the redemption of those wounded, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves--and each other--for who they truly are."

I really liked this book! This is the first book I've read by Tamara Alexander and I enjoyed the story. It was a bit of a longer read than most books but it all came together to tell the story of Claire and Sutton. I liked them as a couple but I also liked the character of Sutton. I laughed out loud when he told Claire she could call him Willister whenever she didn't expect a response and then stuck to that. The banter between them was fun to read as well. I'll admit I couldn't help but "aww" when he asked if she'd forgotten about her next appointment and it was a picnic lunch with him. I also liked the story taking place in the South - since that's my home. It was just an overall really good read and I will definitely be adding Tamara's other books to my ever growing "to read" list.

You can learn more about Tamera from her blog and website.

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.

tweet of the week

2011-11-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Sometimes when you are the closest to your breakthrough the pressure is the greatest. You have come too far to give up now!" - Joyce Meyer

me too

2011-11-09T00:00:00.001-05:00

I'm in a book study of Beth Moore's book, So Long Insecurity, with some other women from my church. We watched some of the DVD the other night and one part really stuck with me. She was telling a story about a woman who had went through an especially difficult season in her life. The woman wanted her kids to not lose faith in God even though she was struggling with that very thing. She said she would rock her smallest child, singing "Jesus Loves Me." She finally realized that for God to love her baby meant He loved her too. It was through tears she sang as that truth took hold.

I can easily encourage others that God has a plan for them and He'll work everything out but I need to tell myself that as well. I have no problem believing God answers the prayers of those around me but when I'm still waiting on a response, I might forget that truth. It all comes back to the fact that everything I undoubtedly believe for others...it's for me, too.

genius

2011-11-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my pastor talked about the genius that resides in all of us though not all of us tap into it. He said we're all created to do different things and it's when we find that place where we know He's called us that our genius is able to come out. It was a really great message and one I want to listen to again. I've been fighting the feeling of being overwhelmed as I try to keep several spinning plates from crashing to the floor. I want to fulfill the plans He has for me and experience the fullness of my genius. But I know I won't get there without effort on my part. I have to make it a priority to work on the dreams He's placed inside of me and not let that I'm tired or have a lot going on get in the way. There's a book a friend of mine told me about titled The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. It's on my "to read" list and the author talks about overcoming the things that can stand in our way as we go after our dreams. I'm not content to live a life that's anything less than what God has for me.

saturday flashback

2011-11-05T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today is normally the day I post Saturday Spotlight's but I decided to do something a little bit different this time. Today we're having a women's luncheon at my church and the guest speaker is Kellie Copeland-Swisher. I best know her from the Commander Kellie and the Superkids videos. Not to brag or anything, but I wrote her and she sent me photos of her and the Superkids on set - I was very excited about it back then. So as I listen to her now that I'm adult, I also want to remember her from when I was little :)

extraordinary

2011-11-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

John Bevere was at my church this past Sunday and it was such a great service! He's very energetic when he speaks and I love when people are excited about what they're talking about! He was only able to cover a small portion of the material in his newest book Extraordinary but it was enough to make me want to read the rest and tap into the empowerment we have through God's grace.

You can learn more about the book from Amazon and from John's website.

book review: "letters to a young youth pastor" by calvin miller

2011-11-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

About the book: "Letters to a Young Pastor offers every young pastor an invaluable mentor with a heart for sharing his hard-won insights with those who enjoy the victories and carry the burdens of the pastorate. Dr. Miller’s appeal to young pastors lies not in his overwhelming successes, but simply in the fact that he’s been there and done that. As Dr. Miller says, “The all-time great reason that you should listen to me is that much of what I write about in this book is written from the edge. Ministry is not for sissies, and the requirement of the tough times brings us to the edge of our commitment.”

One of the reasons I wanted to read this book is because I work in youth ministry at my church. Even though I'm not a pastor I thought I could still learn from the book. I liked the way it was broken down into different topics - some serious and some humorous. I think one of my favorites was Letter 25: Grumpy Homiletics. He talks about the same child having to go to the bathroom every Sunday: "Not children randomly going to the bathroom. The same child week after week! Slamming the door as if to punctuate her Fifth Amendment rights to protest your freedom of speech. Her parents always sat there smiling, never correcting her, always dressing her in Easter frillery so her performance would be tasteful...You can't actually see any more than her little back when she exits, but I always imagined that on her face was a grin that would chill the nerve of a Vatican exorcist." Overall a good read!

I received a copy of this book from The B&B Media Group for my honest review.

with sprinkles on top

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

Bakerella is one of my favorite blogs on sweets. She did a post last week on the different ways you can use Halloween sprinkles...beyond Halloween. I plan on stocking up once everything is marked down - I'm always in the mood for a good buy :) So please click on the picture to read her post and look at her cute ideas!

giveaway: "never let you go" by erin healy

2011-11-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

I'm starting a new thing on my blog by giving away some books that I've read but want to pass along to someone else. So just to clarify, giveaways with the above logo are books that aren't new but still in really good condition.

Congratulations to Margaret for winning my copy of Running Blind by Shirlee McCoy!

This month I'm giving away Never Let You Go by Erin Healy. To enter, just leave comment with your email address. Contest ends Wednesday, November 30 at 8:00 p.m. (which is a change from midnight on prior giveaways).

For bonus entries:
- tell me how you heard about my giveaway
- become a follower of my blog

tweet of the week

2011-10-31T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Never forget or doubt the love God has for you. It is not conditional but a constant love that never fades or ends. Jn 17:23" - John Bevere (via Jon Marshall)

book review: "sunrise on the battery" by beth webb hart

2011-10-29T23:00:00.004-04:00

About the book: "An emptiness dogs Mary Lynn Scoville. But it shouldn’t. After all, she’s achieved what few believed possible. Born in the rural south, she has reached the pinnacle of worldly success in Charleston, South Carolina. Married to a handsome real estate developer and mother to three accomplished daughters, Mary Lynn is one Debutante Society invitation away from truly having it all. And yet, it remains—an emptiness that no shopping trip, European vacation, or social calendar can fill.

While her husband commits social suicide and the life they worked so hard for crumbles around them, Mary Lynn wonders if their marriage can survive. Or if perhaps there really is a more abundant life that Jackson has discovered, richer than any she’s ever dreamed of."

The main reason I wanted to read this book is the reason why Beth wrote it. I was reading the info for this book tour and after Beth read David Platt's book Radical, she was inspired to write about it. I've also read Radical and was excited at the idea of characters tackling the challenge David gives in his book. I enjoyed the story of Mary Lynn and Jackson. They had reached a place that they'd spent the last ten years trying to attain but then they realized, it wasn't really where they wanted to be after all. They found something better - though Mary Lynn had a hard time making the choice to follow her husband. Though their life looked perfect and as if they had it all together, by reading from Mary Lynn, Jackson and their oldest daughter's point of view, I learned that wasn't the case. This was a refreshing book and a great read!

I received a review copy of this book from The B&B Media Group for my honest review.

You can learn more about the book and read an excerpt.

book review: "God makes lemonade" by don jacobson

2011-10-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

About the book: "In God Makes Lemonade you'll read stories from everyday folks - people like you and me who discover unexpected sweetness in the midst of sour circumstances."

This is a great book when you need encouragement. Reading of how God came through for other people is a great boost to my own faith. One of my favorite stories was "Little Norma's Dress" - story about God's perfect timing. I highlighted a line in the story "Waiting to Ripen": Since we don't know where life will take us, let's push on and chase our dreams, even if we can't yet see how they will turn out."

You can learn more about the book and the author as well as purchase the book.

I received a copy of this book from Glass Road Public Relations for my honest review.

book review: "love on the line" by deeanne gist

2011-10-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

About the book: "Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world . . . which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Dashing Luke Palmer is more than he appears though. He's a Texas Ranger working undercover to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers. Repairing telephones and tangling with this tempestuous woman is the last thing he wants to do. But when his stakeout puts Georgie in peril, he realizes more than his job is on the line."

My review: I enjoyed this book! I've read several of Deeanne's other books and have liked them all! I really liked the contrast of Luke and Georgie. Reading the conversations of them bantering back and forth was highly entertaining, especially when Georgie thought she would be able to have her way and Luke thought he would get his way. Deeanne also caught me off guard with a one or two unexpected twists (but I'll keep those to myself) - it all came together wonderfully. I read the last line of the last page with a smile on my face - it's a great way for me to end a book.

I received this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.

You can visit other blogs on this blog tour, buy the book and learn more about Deeanne on her site.

Deeanne is thrilled to introduce Georgie and Luke to the word in her latest novel. To celebrate Deeanne's publisher, Bethany House, is hosting the Love on the Line iPad2 giveaway an Author Chat on Facebook! Enter today and follow the link to RSVP for Deeanne's rip-roarin' Facebook Party!

One fortunate winner will receive:

- a brand new iPad2

- an autographed hardback copy of Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 7th. Winner will be announced at Deeanne’s Author Chat Facebook Party. Deeanne will be wrapping up the Love on the Line celebration by chatting with friends new and old! So grab your copy of Love on the Line (it’s okay if you don’t have one yet- you might could win one!) and join Deeanne on the evening of November 8th for a rip roaring book chat, a little trivia and lots of giveaways (books, and Amazon, iTunes & Starbucks gift certificates)!

saturday spotlight: kim with "today's creative blog"

2011-10-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today's Creative Blog is one of my favorite blogs to visit when I need creative inspiration. Kim has so many great ideas and it's not just for crafts! She has decorating ideas, kitchen ideas, plus she normally has a Fabulous Friday Giveaway each week. Kim also will post about other blogs she likes which I like because it allows me to connect with awesomely creative people I wouldn't otherwise happen across. Head over to Kim's site and find something to inspire you!

free stuff

2011-10-21T00:00:00.001-04:00

I wanted to share some free things I've recently discovered and since I love free things, I'm thinking you will too. There are several places who will be super cool and give you something free - the only requirement is that it be your birthday. My birthday was this past Sunday (a topic I will address in a later post this month) and it was very exciting to receive post cards in the mail for me to redeem my free items. I'm sure there are more that could be added to this list but here's what I have:

- Starbucks - free drink (ANY size)

- Aveda - free Personal Blends Pure-Fume Spirit product

Also, if you're a Bath & Body Works fan and haven't gotten on their mailing list, don't wait another second! They frequently send out coupons for either a free product or a percentage off your whole purchase. You can also get coupons via email as well. If I'm unaware of more free things, please share your wisdom!

tweet of the week

2011-10-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

"That awkard moment when you find out that all these years your toys have secretly made three movies behind your back." - Will Ferrell (via Braden French)

recipe: homemade glazed doughnuts

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

I've been talking about wanting to learn how to make doughnuts and discovered that Pioneer Woman is one step ahead of me and has the perfect step-by-step instructions for me to follow. I haven't tried this out yet but I will consider it a personal accomplishment once I can brag that the doughnuts I take to whatever event are not bought but yes, that's right, I made them :)

Ingredients
Doughnuts
■1-1/8 cup Whole Milk, Warm
■1/4 cup Sugar
■2-1/4 teaspoons (one Package) Instant Or Active Dry Yeast
■2 whole Large Eggs, Beaten
■1-1/4 stick Unsalted Butter, melted
■4 cups All-purpose Flour
■1/4 teaspoon Salt
■Canola Oil

Glaze
■3 cups Powdered Sugar
■1/2 teaspoon Salt
■1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
■1/2 cup Cold Water Or Milk

To Make the Dough:
1. Make sure milk is nice and warm, but not overly hot.
2. Add sugar to milk. Stir to dissolve.
3. Add yeast into a small bowl.
4. Pour milk/sugar mixture over yeast. Stir gently, then let sit for 10 minutes.
5. Melt butter in separate bowl until butter is almost melted. Stir to finish melting so butter won't be overly hot.
6. Add beaten eggs to melted butter, stirring constantly to make sure the butter's not too hot for the eggs.
7. Add the egg/butter mixture to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the dough hook.
8. With the mixer on 3 or medium-low speed, pour in the yeast mixture.
9. Allow the dough hook to stir this mixture for a couple of minutes, making sure it's thoroughly combined.
10. With the mixer still going, add helpings of the flour mixture in 1/4 to 1/2 cup increments until all the flour is gone.
11. Stop the mixer, scrape the bowl, then turn the mixer on the same speed for five whole minutes.
12. After five minutes, stop the mixer and scrape the bottom of the bowl.
13. Turn on the mixer for 30 seconds.
14. Turn off the mixer and allow the dough to sit in the bowl undisturbed for 10 minutes.
15. After 10 minutes, transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Toss the dough to coat, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place straight in the fridge.
16. Refrigerate dough for at least 8 hours, or overnight.

To Make the Doughnuts:
1. Remove bowl from fridge and turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Roll out to 1/4 to 1/3-inch thickness.
3. Using a 3-inch cutter, cut as many rounds as you can, then roll out remaining dough and cut as much as you can, etc.
4. Cut holes out of each round using a 1 1/2-inch cutter.
5. Place both doughnuts and holes on a floured baking sheet.
6. Cover with large tea towel and place in a warm place in your kitchen; my kitchen is very drafty, so I have to briefly warm the griddle, then turn it off and set the sheets on top to keep warm.
7. Allow doughnuts to rise undisturbed for at least 1 hour; 1 hour 15 minutes if necessary. Doughuts should be visibly puffier and appear to be airy.

To Fry the Dougnuts
1. Heat plenty of canola oil in a large pot until the temperature reaches 375 to 380 degrees---do not let it get hotter than 380 degrees! 375 is ideal; keep the thermometer in the pan to continually monitor.
2. One to two at a time, gently grab doughnuts and ease them into the hot oil. Allow them to cook 1 minute on each side; they will brown very quickly.
3. Remove doughnuts from the oil with a slotted spoon, allowing all oil to drip off.
4. Place doughnut immediately on several layers of paper towels. Count to five, then flip it over onto a clean part of the paper towels. Count to five, then flip it over again; the purpose, obviously, is to drain as much grease as possible before it soaks into the doughnut.
5. Repeat with remaining doughnuts and holes. The holes will cook more quickly than the doughnuts; about 30 seconds per side.
6. Allow doughnuts to slightly cool.

To Glaze
1. Mix all glaze ingredients in a bowl until completely smooth.
2. One by one, dip doughnuts into the glaze until halfway submerged. (Note: completely submerge doughnut holes, then remove with slotted spoon.)
4. Remove from glaze, then turn right side up on a cooling rack over a cookie sheet (to catch dripping glaze.)
5. Serve warm if possible, or room temperature.

saturday spotlight: "(in)courage"

2011-10-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

(in)courage is a really great site. I can't remember how I found it but it's a place where women can go to find...encouragement. You can sign up to receive the daily emails with posts by women who have either been through what you might be going through or could possibly be going through it right now. I was super excited to be able to write for them back in January. They have daily guest posts and while I was a little nervous about sharing from my life, reading the comments from other women totally made it worth it. They have an online book club you can participate in and so many other great things. I encourage (yes, I actually made that joke) you to go and look at the site. I pray you find something to strengthen you and brighten your day.

tweet of the week

2011-10-14T00:00:00.001-04:00

"What if everything that has happened in your life to this point was merely a preparation for what is next?" - Michael Hyatt, via Jon Marshall

book review: "the art of romance" by kaye dacus

2011-10-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

"Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are determined to get their older grandchildren married off, but when twenty-eight-year-old Dylan comes home after being fired from his teaching position because of the betrayal of his ex-girlfriend, Perty knows her grandson has more important issues to deal with first. Sassy understands her friend's reservations about timing, but she also sees so many ways in which Dylan would be the perfect match for her thirty-four-year-old granddaughter Caylor. With his record of acclaimed paintings and Caylor's bestselling novels, they could complement each other's talents and provide each other support and encouragement. And there's no denying the spark of attraction between the English professor with the untamed red hair and the painter with the unusual tattoos. But neither grandmother realizes the secrets both Dylan and Caylor are keeping from each other. Will pain and embarrassment from the past keep Caylor and Dylan apart, or will they develop the courage to be truthful with each other and discover the true art of romance?"

This is the second book in the Matchmakers series and I really enjoyed it! I absolutely love the cover and the fact that the story is set in Nashville - being a Southerner, I have a soft spot for stories set in my corner of the country. I enjoyed Dylan and Caylor. I felt Kaye did a good job of developing them and then showing their growth through the story. I was able to feel Caylor's frustration with her sister and Dylan's resignation of never being good enough to please his mother. I especially liked the ending when Dylan quoted from one of Caylor's books - I'm a sucker for stuff like that. At times I thought she gave a little too much detail - especially when describing specific parts of Nashville or the campus where Caylor worked but I thought it cool since it means something to me. When I finished the book I had a smile on my face - an overall good read.

I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review. To learn more about the book and download the first chapter, click here.

hustle

2011-10-10T00:00:00.001-04:00

I'm having to work on slowing down and simply being right now. Life is crazy busy for me and I'm having to make the conscious decision to not constantly be going that I fail to enjoy what's happening right now. I've gotten in the habit of scheduling blog posts in advance so I'm not rushing but the only down side is that I'm not able to share from my heart as much. I'm scheduling tweets of the week, recipes and book reviews but taking me out of my blog. I don't want that. I thoroughly enjoy blogging and this journey I've been on since I began Snidbits. So I'm working on not feeling that I have to always have something going on. I don't always have to have a book in hand or scribbling out a "to do" list or be on my laptop. Life is a one shot thing and I don't want to always be looking so far ahead that I miss out on living my life. I believe that this current season in my life is going to be full of so many great things and I want to savor every one of them. I'm going to take the time to smell the proverbial roses and enjoy right now.

saturday spotlight: traci with "beneath my heart"

2011-10-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

Traci is full of great ideas. I enjoy getting her updates in my inbox, seeing what DIY project she's currently in the middle of. I was looking at her website and noticed she's going to be adding recipes soon - making me very excited! I think my favorite posts include her adorable son, Eli - he just adds something special with his singing to Layla :)

Head over to Beneath My Heart and find some inspiration!

book review: "grandma's attic" by arleta richardson

2011-10-07T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Grandma did what? You might be surprised. When Grandma Mabel was a young girl, trouble seemed to follow her everywhere. And somehow her best friend, Sarah Jane, always found herself in the middle of it too. Whether sneaking out to a birthday party, cutting corners when sewing a dress, or teaching her brother a lesson, Mabel's brilliant ideas only seem to show how much she has to learn. One can find an awful lot of adventure on a farm, even back in the 1800s."

I enjoyed these books! I read Grandma's Attic when I was in middle school and loved it! I was excited at the opportunity to be able to read the stories again. I laughed at Mabel's experiences, wondering how one girl could find herself in so many "scrapes." I think the story about the face cream might be one of my favorites. I liked how the stories weren't super long, making them good for quick reads. I like everything about the books - really great reads!

tweet of the week

2011-10-05T00:00:00.000-04:00

"Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given and then sink yourself into that." Gal 6:4 (Msg) - I tweeted this after I came across the verse and it was one of those verses that jumped out at me in that moment and I still really like it.

giveaway: "running blind" by shirlee mccoy

2011-10-03T00:00:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Rebecca for winning Covert Pursuit by Terri Reed!

This month I'm giving away a copy of Running Blind by Shirlee McCoy! To enter, just leave me a comment along with an email address for me to contact you. Contest ends Monday, October 31 at midnight.

For extra entries:
- tell me how you heard about this giveaway
- become a follower of my blog

saturday spotlight: melissa with "the inspired room"

2011-10-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

Cute DIY projects make me want smile. I love seeing creative ways to either recycle materials or just great ideas in general. I subscribed to The Inspired Room a few months ago and absolutely love the amazing ideas Melissa shares. This book wreath isn't her idea but just by her sharing it, it makes me even more a fan of her. I want to try this on my own some day but for now I'll have to just order one if I don't want to wait :) You can also follow a step-by-step tutorial at Living with Lindsay.

Melissa is just very cool. Here's a blurb from her "About Me" page: "I like to open my eyes to new things to inspire me in living an authentic life — hopefully things that will inspire you too! I love to dream, find inspiration in all sorts of places, and then take what I find and apply it (on a budget and usually using what I already have!) to my own home and life."

never give up

2011-09-30T00:00:00.000-04:00

I was looking through a stack of books in one of the classrooms I was working in a few weeks ago and the title of the book on the top jumped out at me. Never Give Up by Regina Burch is part of a Character Education series and the theme of the book is applicable to adults as well as children. The book constantly repeats the phrase "never give up" and I love that message! The illustrations are super cute and I love the idea of encouraging kids with this book.

Whatever you might be going through, never give up! Life doesn't always make sense and sometimes we wonder where God is when we're in the midst of our struggles or pain. Never give up! We have to continue moving forward and continue trusting - even when it doesn't seem like our circumstances have changed. Never give up!