Thursday, October 28, 2010

Friday Finds 10/29/10

 (Hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading)
What great books did you hear about/discover this past week? Share with us your FRIDAY FINDS!

Is it really Friday already?? Man this week has flown by! Well...here are my finds:
(Some of my finds are because I watched  The Oprah Show since she was doing a special on The Sound of Music.)

The DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by Kody Keplinger. I found out about this book from BookJourney.






The Very Fairy Princess by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, & Christine Davenier 












 The Imperfectionists, a novel by Tom Rachman










 Cabin by Black Lake: The Horror Begins by P. A. Briton






 Cabin by the Lake by Judean Etheredge

Booking Through Thursday 10/28/10

(Hosted by Booking Through Thursday)

In honor of Halloween this weekend...
What reading skeletons do you have in your closet? Books you’d be ashamed to let people know you love? Addiction to the worst kind of (fill in cheesy genre here)? Your old collection of Bobbsey Twin Mysteries lovingly stored behind your “grown-up” books? You get the picture … come on, confess!

I really don't think I have any. But that also depends on who you are or ask. I still have my collection of Nancy Drew and love them. I got my niece into them:) Maybe that's where my love of mystery/suspense comes from...? And Hubby can't give me a hard time over them because he likes the Hardy Boys. I even have the computer games of Nancy Drew that my mother started me on. Those are addicting. So I don't think I have any "skeletons" in my book closet lol.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

New Beginnings Wednesday 10/27/10


To remind you of the way this works, here’s how to play:
First — post your list of New Years’ Resolutions in a post at your blog (or in the comments here, if you don’t have a blog).
Second — every week, on Wednesday, write a new post about how you’re doing with each of your goals … you’ll have to list them, again, each week, as people won’t remember what you’re working towards, otherwise. Be brief in your updates, as there may be several blogs to visit! ((come give a quick update here at Should Be Reading, if you don’t have a blog)).
Third — after you’ve written your update, come back to Should Be Reading, and share your link so that we –the other New Beginnings participants– can stop by your blog and encourage you!
Important! … It would be absolutely great if you could visit at least ONE other participant’s blog  on Wednesdays and leave a comment on their post to share some encouragement for their efforts! Show your support! That’s what this event is all about — standing by each other to finally reach our goals!
Here is mine:
 Read the Bible in a year...
Well, lol...I am on another break from my T.D. Jakes Devotional since I am reviewing A Year With God by R. P. Nettelhorst. So my daily Bible reading is still going on, just doing it with different curriculum.

Lose 10-15 lbs...
I am at the same weight!! What in the world is going on??

 Tone Up...
I've completely stopped working out. Been busy and lazy. But I am starting up again tonight.

Get my family (my hubby and I) completely out of debt...
That is still a work in progress. Obviously. I hope to feel some kind of financial freedom...soon. Staying optimistic.
Finish college and get my teaching/education degree..
I need to get our ducks in a row first so I will worry about that when we are more financially secure and ready.

WWW Wednesday 10/27/10

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions... * What are you currently reading?
* What did you recently finish reading?
* What do you think you'll read next?


Here are my Current Reads:

A Year with God by R. P. Nettlehorst ( for review)
I started on this last night. Hopefully I'll have it finished by...Sunday?









Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (as told by Richard Perez)
{ for review} This book is not for everyone, just let me tell you that. I'm about a third or so through it.









 Vexation by Elicia Clegg (for review)
I am over halfway through it.






I Recently Finished:

Chiczofrenia: crazy is an artform by Dr. Laina Turner_molaski

Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown



 Next, I am going to Read: 
The Chronicles of Christmas by Tim Slover
Everything I Never Wanted To Be by Dina Kucera

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Teaser Tuesday 10/26/10

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
  • Grab your current read
  • Open to a random page
  • Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
  • Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
As I said yesterday, "if my book comes in the mail this week, I will be adding another book to my reads this week." 
Well it came yesterday: A Year with God by R. P. Nettlehorst. So I have added it as my read for the week. I hope that it doesn't take me any longer than two weeks to get it read. It isn't quite 400 pages so I figure if I read 25 pages at least I can get it read no problem.
So here are my three teasers:
A Year with God by R. P. Nettlehorst:
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Ever since Adam and Eve's disobedience,  human beings have begun their relationship with God through fear, thanks to their guilty consciences.
Page 20, from Day 1; entitled He Did It!






Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (as told by Richard Perez):
But then I just felt numb. "Right now I'm tired of typing." Which was the truth.
"Time to log off."
And I did. Abruptly.
F him.
Page 148



 
Vexation by Elicia Clegg:
After Lane was completely sure that Devin was gone, he continued his journey down one more street. A new kind of leer was on his face as he saw Dawn sitting in her car, looking angry; she always looked angry, though this was always what made her so dammed easy to manipulate.
Page 205

Monday, October 25, 2010

Chiczofrenia: Crazy is an art form by Dr. Laina Turner-Molaski Tour & Review

A little bit about Dr. Laina Turner-Molaski:

Laina Turner-Molaski is a business woman, mom, author, Professor, and a major supporter of shopping. She has an undying love for shoes and coffee, which is why she created her main character and alter-ego Presley Thurman.
With a lot of letters after her name and a ton of student loan debt, she is always working to pay the bills. While she enjoys her day job, her passion is writing, and she uses a lot of company time writing her fiction or working on her social website for women, Chiczofrenic.com. She is hoping to sell her book before she gets fired from her day job for goofing off.
Laina is currently living in Indiana, with her family, and is always writing something, whether it’s blogs, articles, business journals and books or ideas for her next novel. She is continuously doing what she loves which is writing or drinking coffee.


To learn more about this crazy woman, go to her site!

To check out other bloggers connecting with her on this book, click here.


Now, as for my thoughts on the book; Her experiences and what she has gone through, are sad. But she is able to explain it is such a way that makes you laugh. She encourages you to embrace who you are. To stop trying to be someone your not, stop trying to be someone else for someone. You will drive yourself crazy (haha) doing that. Her book is funny, she feels like a friend when you reading her book. She is down to earth and real.  Dr. Laina Turner-Molaski sent me the first chapter of her book in an email first, and reading that first chapter, I couldn't take my eyes off the screen. I loved it. You will notice how she went through a lot of what your going through, so it's like having someone to talk to. And I love that about this book. Would I recommend this book? Oh yea.

You can Follow her on facebook:
  • L. Turner the author
  • Chiczofrenic
And on Twitter:
  • lturnermolaski
  • chiczofrenic
She also has a really cool site based on her book, Chicozfrenia; go check it out!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week.  It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

This Past Week:
This past week I finished The Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown (For review, which is up:)

I picked up Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (as told by Richard Perez) again, hope to have it finished by the end of this week with review up this weekend or next week; we'll see (for review)
I finished  Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater (for review which is up:)

Chiczofrenia: Crazy is an art form by Dr. Laina Turner-Molaski (fore review, which will be up tomorrow, I am her blog tour host for tomorrow:)

I keep trying to throw in another book for review, but it doesn't happen, so I am not going to mention that book until I am actually going to pick it up! Can you name the book? 

This Week:
I am continuing Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (as told by Richard Perez; for review)
Vexation by Elicia Clegg
And, if it comes this week, I am going to get started on A Year with God by R. P. Nettlehorst. 


We will see how the week goes....:)
 

Meet Me On Monday 10/25/10

This meme is new to me, it sounds like fun and is hosted by Never Growing Old. I found it at Socrates's Book Reviews

Questions:

1. Do you sleep with a night light on?
No. I have it on to read but I turn it off to go to sleep. Although I sometimes fall asleep with light on, glasses on and book on chest. But that only happens once in a blue moon:)

2. What do you drink with dinner?
Pepsi, sometimes a beer, or kiwi-strawberry Vitamin Water.

3. Do you play the lottery? If so, how often?
No, but the hubby does. He like to go the lottery vending machines and get a few $1's on payday.


4. How often do you go to the grocery store?
Once a week or so. I tend to forget an item or two even though I go with a list so I go back. Or sometimes something sounds really good and I go grab it.

5. Would you rather travel back in time 500 years or travel forward 500 years?

 I would rather travel back. People were more active, living was cheaper, but I couldn't bear to live without my modern conveniences. Either one would be cool.

Musinng Mondays 10/25/10

This weeks musing monday question asks...:

About how many books (roughly) would you say you own? (If you don’t have a clue how many, do you care to know? Why, or why not?


My answer: Oh Lord...At least a hundred, if not more. If you think about it, for a book lover like, me, that's a pretty low number. Part of it is because We have a small place so not a lot of room for my books. I want to invest in some floor to ceiling book shelves. My dream, is to have the library from Beauty & The Beast:))
Also, there is a couple book sales going on right now ( one at the Safeway grocery store for breast cancer and the other at the library) so the number will be going up soon.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

The Sunday Salon 10/24/10

Hosted by The Sunday Salon
I feel like I have accomplished quite a bit this month.
I finished reading:
  1. I am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced by Nujood Ali
  2. Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater-for review
  3. Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado-for review
  4. Reflection's of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown-for review and blog tour
  5. Which None Can Shut by Reema Goode-for review
  6. The Wife's Tale by Lori Lansens-book club read
I believe that is all I read this month. If it is, yay:) I am glad to be out of my slump. Lately I have only read a book or two a month and that annoys me because I know I can do better than that and I want to do better than that. But anyways, Yay! :)

I started reading Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (with Richard Perez) a few days ago. I have been gritting my teeth through it (at times) for a few reasons but more on that in my review:) I should be able to finish that this week with review shortly after:)

Then I am going to finish Vexation by Elicia Clegg. I am more than halfway through it.It's 312 pages and I am on page 214...so I'm getting there.

I should have a good little list of books read this next month (not saying it's a contest but I love to read book and the more I read off my TBR the faster I can add more books I really want to read; even though it's kind of a "never ending" list if you know what I mean.) because besides Vexation, my next few books are thin. A week read at the most.

Also, on Tuesday, I am blog tour host for Dr. Laina Turner-Molaski's book: Chiczofrenia: crazy is an art form.

Anyway, off to enjoy my Sunday, do some laundry, and other house work, so I'll check in later:) Happy Sunday all!

Friday, October 22, 2010

Book Blogger Hop 10/22-25/10

(Hosted by Crazy-For-Books)

This is a fun Book Blogger Hop hosted by Crazy-for-Books.

This week's question comes from Becky who blogs at Becky's Barmy Book Blog

"Where is your favorite place to read? Curled up on the sofa, in bed, in the garden?"

I've answered this question a few times: My absolute favorite spot to read is in bed. That way I can stretch out, recline, have my blanket, and be comfy. My second favorite place to read is in the recliner in the living room. If I have half an hour before one of my favorite shows comes on, I'll read until it comes on and then I will read during commercials. But I do my bulk reading while laying in bed at night. I go to bed "early" so I can read for a few hrs. then when I actually tend to go to bed, I'll stay up for an hr or two more and read;) My Hubby wants to get me one of those electronic things so I can download books and read while in the car and things of that nature. I also want to get an iPod with more memory so I can download a book at least at a time so while I'm jogging with baby in stroller I can listen to books. But those will come later.
I think I'm getting off topic...lol...Have a great Friday everyone!

Friday Finds 10/22/10

What great books did you hear about/discover this past week? Share with us your FRIDAY FINDS! :D

 

Here are my fabulous finds:

 





Let Me In by John Ajvide Lindqvist

Family Album by Penelope Lively

A Year with God, a devotional by R. P. Nettlehorst

I love these covers! They all say so much! They are just calling for me!

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Booking Through Thursday

(Hosted by Booking Through Thursday)

This week I am answering two questions. Both provided by Booking Through Thursday. But, MizB of Should Be Reading chose another question for the week because she didn't have an answer for this week. I thought that was a good idea:) Here is the first question:
Do you have “issues” with too much profanity or overly explicit (ahem) “romantic” scenes in books? Or do you take them in stride? Have issues like these ever caused you to close a book? Or do you go looking for more exactly like them? (grin)
Yes. I can read a book with a little swearing in it, but don't over do it, please. There are especially a few words I do not like while reading. I do not like books with sex scenes in it. One time, years ago, I read a romance novel, and even though it was good writing, and no swearing, it had a ton of sex scenes in it and that turned me off. It made me feel like I was watching a porno or peaking into someone's bedroom. Ew...gross...yuck. Not my thing. But I am also not a fan of romance novels either.  I have tried to read a few, could not get into it. At all. I can't get into a book where the min plot is romance. Especially when you know two characters in the book are racing to get into bed with each other. not my cup of tea. So unless the book is for review, if it has too much swearing, or uses God's name in vain, I put the book aside. 


Name a book (or books) from a country other than your own that you love. Or aren’t there any?
Do diaries count? I have read The Diary of Anne Frank a hundred times. I have also read a couple of books based on true stories (almost diary form but not quite) that were written in Aran. I think that counts....?

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Winner!

Well, I said I would post who the winner of The Reflections of Light for Daily Living:A book of affirmations for the Ambitious by Dr. Tiffany Brown today. 

                     Congratulations!
       NurseMom at Living Book Reviews! 

You will receive your prize giveaways shortly:) Thanks so much for playing:)


I fully enjoyed this book. Was different which was very nice.
Dr. Brown is a very gifted and talented writer who is completely down to earth! You can feel it in her writing:) 
When reading this you feel like you are sitting with her with a pot of coffee just chatting with a good friend:)


Hope you enjoy the book NurseMom!

WWW Wednesday 10/20/10

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions...
* What are you currently reading?
* What did you recently finish reading?
* What do you think you'll read next?


I am currently reading:
  • Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (as told by Richard Perez)
(reading for review)










  • The Life Book by Carl Blunt ( I don't have an image for this one, sorry-for review)
  • Chiczofrenia: Crazy is an art form by Laina Turner-Molaski (for review-to see image, go to Lainaturner.com/store)
  • Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor by Jim Sutton & Sagar Nigwekar (for review)
I recently finished:
  • Outlive Your Life: You were made to make a difference by Max Lucado


  • Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater (Review up)
  • The Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown
I'm going to read these next:
  • Money Hungry by Daryl Moore (for review)
  • Soul to Soul Parenting by Annie Burnside (for Review)
  • Vexation by Elicia Clegg (for review) I started reading this, got about halfway through and then got distracted by other books and it got left at a friends house for a short time:(
 I'm going to try to keep it light reading in case other books arise this week and to make sure I get these read and the reviews up. But so far so good. I have reached my goal of getting my reading done and reviews up:)) Yay! 
I love it when I get on a role like this, don't you?
(*I noticed I was having trouble loading pictures, apparently blogspot is doing some maintenance....*)




Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater Review


Your Money God's Way: Overcoming the 7 money myths that keep Christians broke by Amie Streater

When I saw this book, I thought, "Oh, another book for Christians, teaching us/them how to handle their money blah blah..."
Well, I was right but...it was not what I expected. At all. Amie Streater does not sugar coat the fact that a lot of us are dumb or ignorant with our money. Sorry. No nice talk or "I'm sorry honey" talk here. She teaches us how to live in our means financially. You don't need designer clothes, a big house, lots of stuff to fill it, a really nice car, etc. Most of us would love that. I know I would. I personally have lived in small places all my life so living in a bigger place is my goal. I want some elbow room! But if it isn't in our means financially...oh well.
And she isn't saying we can't have that. She is saying we don't need that. Especially if we can't afford it. Pretty much, stop spending beyond your means. Which a lot of people do; especially with credit cards.  While reading this book, all I kept saying to myself was, 'Oh man...I do that...But I don't want to give that up!!' But I know deep down I need to in order to see myself and my family financially clean. No debt. Have a savings built up. Able to give to charities especially during the holidays. Since reading this book, I have gotten our finances in much better order. And I am proud of myself for that:)
I have so many thoughts and feelings about this book. Bottom line, I think this is a must have for every person, couple, and family out there. Weather you are in debt or not. If your not, great! This book will teach you and help you how to avoid debt with common sense strategies and biblical wisdom. And if you are in dept, this book will be a real eye opener. A real kick in the pants. But you will come out of it. Amie Streater will tell you what you need to get rid of, stop doing, and start doing. It won't be easy. It'll be challenging, trust me! But it is completely worth it. This book is a must have.
Although at times what I read wasn't easy because Amie was saying what needed to do and I didn't want to do, but after finally relenting and doing it. I was proud of myself. This book is hard to read at times because we get told things we don't want to hear; but it is very inspirational. It really is a tremendous help. And when you save money and pay your bills, you feel better about yourself and more relaxed. Who doesn't want that?
I recommend this book to every person I know and meet.


                                                                            I received this book for review from BookSneeze.com

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

The Reflections of Light for Daily Living: A Book of Affirmations for the Ambitious by Dr. Tiffany Brown Blog Tour and Review

First off, I love the cover and title. Because it is so bright and cheerful and welcoming. Plus, if you aren't ambitious (but hopefully you are;) and you see this book thinking you are, it will help you think more positively and be more ambitious! It'll help teach the unambitious to be ambitious!  

I liked that she gave a little bit of a history about how she grew up and how that connected with her writing this devotional.

I also love that each day she starts off saying, Today is about this (example, taking care of yourself-Day 4-) then gives her personal story about herself and how she learned this lesson. Then she continues about what it means to take care of yourself.

I like this devotional separate from others that I have because those devotionals,  like this are centered around your faith; But others teach you how to put your faith into your everyday life. This teaches you how to put your everyday life into your faith without falling from your faith. As Dr. Brown puts it in her introduction, it's a booster shot to go along with your daily Bible reading to help build your spiritual walk with God.

I also enjoyed that she ended it with a well put simple, 'be the catalyst for change.' And the little smiley face she puts at the end always made me smile:)

She keeps it light as well; she digs into our hearts at time while keeping it light and making us think about how we have been doing things and the changes we need to make. Simple and to the point. Not too wordy or long winded. I like that. Especially since I am a stay at home mother of my young daughter. 

She also spoke about making sure that God's Will is first and foremost for you. Making sure to trust Him and His Will for you. May not be easy because you really want it to go another way. Just remember: God does know what is best and He knows things you don't know and He is aware of things you aren't. Trust Him.He knows all. She puts in in three simple words: Trust. Believe. Pray.

I would absolutely recommend this book! I know a few of my own family and friends who could use this book!


Now for the giveaway:
There will be an autographed copy of The Reflections of Daily Living: A book of affirmations for the ambitious along with a smart phone app.

How to enter:
Leave me a comment telling me why you need the giveaway:)

Bonus Entries:
Become a follower of my blog for an extra entry
If you have a FaceBook, post an update about this post and giveaway  for an extra entry
If you "tweet", tweet about this post and giveaway for an extra entry.

I will use Random.org to choose a winner. I will name the winner in my post on Wednesday along with my email address so the winner can send me their address info:) Have a great day and good luck all!

Monday, October 18, 2010

Teaser Tuesday10/19/10

(Hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading)

I actually have a few since I am reading a few books this week...

"God wants the best for us. He is constantly working hard on our behalf
to ensure we are able to reach our potential and live out our destiny."

From: The Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Brown, Day 218: Willingness to Deliberate

"I don't have any," I would tell her. "No money either." 
"Yeah, babe," she would laugh.  "You and me both."
From: Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana (as told to Richard Perez), Page 6

Delirium is sudden changes in the way a person acts or behaves. People who are delirious are often confused, agitated or have a hard time focusing.
From: Top 5 Questions To Ask Your Doctor by Jim Sutton & Sagar Nigwekar, Page 60

In the Bible, God says that everything He made was good. From massive galaxies soaked with shiny stars to the tiny molecules packed with DNA, it was all good. 
From: The Life Book by Carl Blunt, Page 7

"Why did God let this happen to us?" Day after day, people file into my office with one financial catastrophe after another.  After they run down the difficulties of the past months and years, the first question they ask is usually , "Why did God let this happen to us?" And Because I have the title of "Pastor" in front of my name, they are expecting a profound answer, one invoking promising scriptures ( just the peppy ones, please), a dramatic retelling of some biblical miracle, and for bonus points, a cuddly parable or two.
From: Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater, from the first page of the introduction. 

The Mark Contest

Hey all- just dropping a quick note that the contest will be ending in two days. The contest ran a little longer because I wanted the product here first. But now that I have the product, Which is the Mend Mark bracelet (in a neat package with some info inside as well) I will be ending the contest on Wednesday. I will announce the winner on Thursday. I will be using Random.org in case of a tie.  
To find out more about it, go my post about The Mark of Love and/or go their the main site.
Thanks all and have a great day!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

(Hosted by BookJourney)
It’s Monday! What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week.  It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

This past week I:
Finished my goal of reading Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado and posted my review:)

Posted my review for Which None Can Shut by Reema Goode

Started my review for The Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Brown. Finished reading it last night! Whoo hoo! Just in time for tomorrow! I am a blog tour host for her book tomorrow so if you could come by tomorrow and check it out that would be great! And there is a couple of giveaways:)


This week I:
I have started reading (again!) Permanent Obscurity by Dolores Santana as told by Richard Perez (For review)

The Life Book by Carl Blunt (For review)

Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater (For review)

Chiczofrenia: Crazy is an art form by Dr. Laina Turner-Molaski with review coming up soon! (For review)

We'll see how it goes! Happy Monday everyone!

Top 5 Questions To Ask Your Doctor by Jim Sutton and Sagar Nigwekar

I hope to get these all read this week or at least a good indent with reviews in the next week or two.

Musing Monday 10/18/10


This weeks musing question is:

Do you prefer hardcovers, trade paperbacks (the bigger ones), or mass market paperbacks (the smaller ones)? Why?

My answer: It all depends, honestly. If I am reading a self help type book, I prefer hardcovers so I can write notes in the book as I am reading. For reviewing as well I prefer hardcover but I am not going to be picky. Besides, I don't blame them for sending paper back in the mail, it's cheaper! I would send a reviewer a paperback too! The mass market paperbacks are good for carrying around; especially if you are taking the bus. As long as the print isn't too small. But whenever I receive a small paperback for review it makes it a bit more difficult for wanting to make a note while reading because the book tends to shut on you a lot easier. So I prefer the bigger paperbacks because they stay open:) All in all though really, I don't really care.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

The Sunday Salon 10/17/10

This week was good. I reached my goal of  finishing Outlive Your Life: You were made to make a difference by Max Lucado and I am almost done with Reflections of Light for Daily Living: A book of Affirmations for the Ambitious by Dr. Tiffany Brown. I have my blog tour date for Reflections of Light for Daily Living on the 19th of this month with a couple of giveaways:) So my review for that will be up on the 19th. My review for Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado and my review for Which None Can Shut by Reema Goode are both up for viewing;) It took me a while to get my reviews written and done but I did it. I have changed my current tbr around a little to get books for review that have been sitting for a while read and reviewed.
So my plan for this week is:
  • Permanent Obscurity by Richard Perez (for review)-I started this a while ago and now I am going to finish it and get my review up!
  • Top 5 Questions To Ask Your Doctor by Jim Sutton and Sagar Nigwekar (for review)- I keep putting this on my tbr, reading it and then...I don't know what. So I am also tackling that book this week.
  • The Life Book by Carl Blunt (also for review)
  • And last but not least, Your Money God's Way: Overcoming the 7 Money Myths that keep Christians broke by Amie Streater
Also, I got myself somewhat confused...I think. I think I said before that I was being a blog tour host for John Betcher's book, The 19th Element on the 22 of November. But that isn't happening until the 13th of December. I am being a blog tour host on the 26th of this month for Laina Turner-Molaski's book, Chiczofrenia: crazy is an art form- with a giveaway as well.

So that has been my past week and that is how my future week with a few other things look like:)

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Which None Can Shut by Reema Goode REVIEW

Which None Can Shut



"See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it" Revelations 3:8
Imagine a place where becoming a Christian is a punishable crime—and your own family exacts the punishment. Where those who spread the gospel among locals are deported if discovered. Where converts to Christianity face persecution, isolation, or even death as the price for their faith. “Reema Goode” and her family are Christians working in a closed Middle Eastern country where all of these things are true. Yet they are also firsthand witnesses of a whole new trend that is taking shape in missions to Muslims. Despite all obstacles, God is opening miraculous doors in the Islamic world, where an unprecedented number of Muslims are becoming followers of Jesus. In this powerful collection of personal stories, Reema takes us deep inside her Arab neighborhood to show how God is opening doors in just one of many Islamic communities. As she walks us through everyday life in a Muslim town, she reveals the diverse, creative, unexpected, and thrilling ways God is reaching her neighbors with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This book, is full of true stories and events that happened to Reema, her husband Mike and their children.  She tells of events about living in a community full of Muslims and their mission to tell the story of Christ and His love. This story, or rather these stories are scary at times. You want to read faster to find out the outcome!But there are also stories told in this book where I found myself cheering for her and/or her husband; and even their son on one occasion. This book was very inspiring and reminded me that even though a person goes through persecution either from their own family members, friends or even stangers because of their faith, atleast we live in a country where we have freedom of religion/faith. She reminded me of how lucky and blessed I am. 

She reminds us to keep the faith, keep praying; because praying does do a whole lot. She also reminds us that God is in control; if we let Him. Do we want God to take the wheel or not? Do we trust Him to take over or do we know better? Or maybe next time because this time isn't good for you or me.

Within the pages of this book Reema and everyone else (in this book) keep reminding us a much needed reminder I think; Trust in Him. He is in control. This read is inspiring and a great thrill to read. It made me realize that I take my freedom for granted at times, I need to work on that:) Freedom of religion/faith, freedom of speech. We have that here; in the US of A.  

Reema also made sure to note that her and her family didn't shove The Word down people's throats. They prayed for God to open a line of communication for them to share the Bible with non-Christians . And He provided just that. 

I would highly recommend this book to anyone. Christian or non Christian. It not only is full of great stories but also a learning tool for Christians to have if they want to better reach the non Christian and have a meaningful conversation. It also opens your eyes to what is going on outside of our country.




                                           I received my copy of this book from Tyndale House Publisher for review

Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado Review

Outlive Your Life: You Were Made To Make a Difference by Max Lucado

Throughout this entire book, Outlive Your Life, Max teaches us through examples that happened not only in his own life, but of others he has spoken to and interview; and examples in the Bible, how to live as a disciple and how to challenge ourselves outside of our comfort zone. 
He teaches us not to make a theater production of our faith (page 93). He tells us to ask ourselves these questions: If no one knew of the good I do, would I still do it? (page 93). If your planning on doing a good deed, are you doing it to get brownie points? To be seen doing a nice thing? Are you expecting recognition? If so, that's not an honest good deed.
At times, even though I fully enjoyed the book and learned a lot from reading it, I found myself bored at times. I felt as though Max Lucado was too wordy and/or gave one too many examples to get his point across and found myself thinking, get to the point already! Or, OK, I got the picture, move on.
But that did only happen a few times in the book and I'm glad for it. The rest of the time, I couldn't wait to get back to this read. Lucado really pulled me in and intrigued me. I couldn't wait to get back to this book and see what Max Lucado would say about being a disciple, a servant, a blessing to others without expecting recognition or even a thank you, a helper.
I also enjoyed how the book was set up. The entire book teaches one specific lesson: You were made to make a difference. Then the book is broken down into chapters to break the main lesson into parts so you get a step by step on how to be a disciple, a helper, God's servant. Max Lucado makes it easy with his book to really understand how to be a good disciple of Christ, how to be a servant, a blessing to any and all you see. No matter the color of their skin, their origin, their religion, what language they speak. He breaks it down so you know how to apply it to your life. But he also warns you that their will be prosecution from people and how to prepare for that.
The fact that he always used scriptures to back up what he was saying and where to find them was great and helpful so you could look it up yourself. And he uses all sorts of biblical translations like, NLT, CEV, KJV and more.
All in all, this book was and is very inspiring to do good without credit being the first thought; to make sure to do good without a big show or without expecting a big show or any show at all. But just because. I would definitely recommend this read.

                                                             I received my copy of this book for review from BookSneeze.com

Book Blogger Hop Oct 15-18

I joined another meme hosted by Crazy-For_Book. It looks like a lot of fun! The question this week came from Christina at The Paperback Princesses: "When you read a book that you just can't get into, do you stick it out and keep reading or move to your next title?"
My answer:
I have answered this question in the past, somewhere but, I used to rad through every book I read even if I didn't like it or it was annoying/boring me.  But I have gotten to the point that unless it is for review, I don't finish it if I don't like it or can't get into it. I'm not going to waste anymore of my time with a book I can't get into for whatever reason (unless it is for review). But I will pick it up again the the future and give it another try. If it still don't like it for whatever reason, I'll put it back down and go to it one more time. If I still don't like it, I give up on that book. Not the author but the book. Because there have been many times, as i am sure you all have been through this, that I don't like that one book in particular but I like another book by the same author.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Follow by Floyd McClung

548 McClung bk cover.JPGFollow begins by sharing McClung’s own personal story of how he was set free from a life of religious tradition to enjoy one of relationship with Jesus. This liberating experience caused McClung to realize the importance of changing the focus of life from ourselves to Jesus and led him to form outward-looking communities of disciples. “Rather than setting out a list of rules that put people in bondage to religious legalism, we should be offering unbelievers and believers alike a Jesus-focused invitation to find one’s identity and life shaped by the kingdom Jesus came to establish here on earth,” says McClung. By using stories and Scriptural examples, McClung reveals the freedom that comes from living our lives the way God intended and provides an intelligible path toward total Lordship—without condescending into religiosity. 
Follow’s message is centered upon the practical, personal areas of believers’ lives that must be examined and transformed so that they are able to love Jesus, love each other within the body of Christ, and love others currently on the outside. While addressing topics such as obedience, identity, significance, church, sexuality, marriage, work, humility, faith, prayer, witness, sacrifice, and simplifying church life, McClung seeks to answer the question, “How are we to think and live day to day as followers of Jesus?” Each chapter ends with questions for group discussion and some practical steps of application. 
Offering a fresh injection of spiritual adrenaline into mediocre attempts at following Christ, Follow teaches readers how to be on mission with God in His world, free from the world’s attempts to domesticate and tame what it means to follow the wild, untamable Jesus. “We must constantly return to Jesus as our source and our example for how to live life and how to do church together,” McClung believes. “Studying His life, spending time in His presence, seeking to be filled with His Spirit, and fulfilling His mission with others in community—this is how we are to experience life as Jesus intended it.” 

I love memoirs/true stories, as you all know. Plus I love the cover. It's peaceful and cozy.Would you pick up this book? I wish I had it here in my hands because I would be reading it. Not just because the cover and not just because it's a type of memoir, but because of the message: Having a relationship with Christ.
What do you think about the book so far?

Friday Fill-In #194 10/15/10


I did this once a while back and thought it was a lot of fun. So I'm getting into again:)
It's fun and easy and at times can really make you think!

1. My favorite month is...I actually have two, and one is September because my daughter was born that month, the other is April because it's when I got married.

2. It's so nice when your outside and it's hot then you get a fresh breeze.

3. I love to sniff fresh ground coffee!

4.Banana nut muffins is what I like to have as a treat for breakfast.

5. The hobby I enjoy most is reading of course;) !

6. It's Friday! Already? - oh my!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending time with Hubby and our daughter Abigail, tomorrow my plans include going to our friends wedding, then to our friends house for a game of poker and Sunday, I want to do nothing but read!

It's Friday, Already?!

Afternoon everyone! How is everyone's day going? Mine? Alright. A few things have been on my mind though. I made a post, about a week ago, called the mark of love, with a giveaway and I noticed a few page views but that was all. U'm wondering why. Is anybody interested in it? Should I take it down? I'm feeling a little down about it...*thinking*....

Also, a few months back, I witnessed a guy who I didn't realize I knew 'till the end being very drunk and crazy inside of his apartment but at his window making a show for a few friends of mine and myself. Long story short, I got a subpoena last week. Then I got a call earlier this week from the prosecuting attorney telling me that unless the case gets settled this Thursday (yesterday) I will need to be at court at 830 in the morning all week. I had been waiting all week for Thursday! Then the morning of, I waited to see it the attorney would call but I was anxious to know if I had to go or not. So at about noon I called, gave the nice woman my information and she told me, yes it was settled and dealt with this afternoon'. Yes! Then, just to clarify, I asked, so I don't need to show up next week?" She told me no I am good to go. I don't need to come to court. I thanked her and told her she was awesome, have a great day!
About an hour later the attorney called. I was a bit confused why. Then I thought, maybe he is calling to tell me that it got settled so don't worry about coming to work. Maybe he doesn't know I already called. So without a worry I picked up my phone. He proceeded to tell me I need to be at court on the 22nd of this month. I told him I was confused. I called about an hour ago and the woman told me it got settled. He tells me, it was originally. But the defendant took it back and we are going to court. I asked him if I absolutely needed to be there, since this is a indecent exposure case and I didn't see anything like that. I only heard the commotion about it. He then told me that I would still be helpful since I was there. At least it isn't all week. Just one day. At the end of the phone call, I thanked him for calling and told him to have a nice day. Called my older sister to see if she could still watch Abigail this next Friday. I am going to court after all. Oh well, what can you do? I will be bringing a book along with me for sure; just don't know which one yet.

Anyway, earlier this week I mentioned the books I wanted to read. The Reflections for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown and Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado. Though, the book The Reflections for Daily Living-I am going to have my review for that up on the 19th of this month, I am a blog tour host(with a giveaway :) I started reading it a few nights ago and it is very good. I wanted to keep reading but had to go to bed. I love books like that! But I don't know if I'll be able to finish in time. I'm hoping!
I am about halfway through Max Lucado's book. I plan on finishing it today with my review up in few days so or.
If any of you are are at all interested in winning a prize head on over to my post The Mark of Love I am keeping that post open for a few more days or so since I just got the prize for one of you in the mail today:)

Anyway, I am off to do some house work and then read!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Friday Find 10/15/10

(Hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading)
 What great books did you hear about/discover this past week? Share with us your FRIDAY FINDS!


Here is my list:

A Bright New Morning: An American Story by Phil Mitchell
 









The Christmas Chronicles: The legend of Santa by Tim Slover











The Reflections of Light for Daily Living: A Book of Affirmations for the Ambitious by Dr. Tiffany Brown

 

 

 

 

 The 19th Element by James Becker


Everything I Never Wanted to Be by Dina Kucera







I love theses covers! Especially the last three. They are just calling to me!

WWW Wednesday 10/13/10

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions...  
* What are you currently reading?
* What did you recently finish reading?
* What do you think you'll read next?

I'm currently reading:
  1. Outlive Your Life: You were made to make a difference by Max Lucado (for review)
  2. The Reflections of Light for Daily Living: A book of affirmations for the ambitious by Dr. Tiffany Brown (for review )
I recently finish reading:
  1. I Am Nujood, Age 10 And Divorced by Nujood Ali with Delphine Minoui
  2. Which None Can Shut by Reema Goode (for review)
What I am going to read next:
  1. I have a couple books coming for immediate review (blog tour host:). I will tell you the titles when they come in:) For a little suspense;)
  2. (Got put on hold because of books I am reading for review due to blog tours:) Top 5 Questions To Ask Your Doctor by Jim Sutton and Sagar Nigwekar
*I don't want to over due it for the next few weeks due to the fact I am part of a couple blog tours this month and a few next month. I want to make sure to get them read and reviewed with not a lot of extra pressure. If I get more read, awesome! If not, that's OK:)