Forgiven The Amish School Shooting, A Mother's Love, And a Story of Remarkable Grace. By Terri Roberts with Jeanette Windle

This was was written by the shooter's mother.  This was an interesting read, to get a different perspective from what Imsaw in the media.  It gave me the background of the people involved in this tragedy.

Forgiven- Is it something you can do?
This book showed the background of the family involved- the shooter and the victims and their family.  It showed me grace, love, and forgiveness.

This book was sent to me from Bethany House.  This is my own review of the book.

Streams Of Mercy by Lauraine Snelling

Anji's Return to the Red River Valley Offers a Fresh Start--and a Surprising Second Chance at Love.
Anji Baard Moen, recently widowed in Norway, returns to North Dakota with her children. She quickly settles back into life in the familiar surroundings of Blessing, teaching in the high school and writing articles for the Blessing Gazette. In the midst of an unexpected crisis, Anji is thrust into a role she never imagined. And almost without her even being aware, an old friendship begins to show signs of developing into something more.

Meanwhile, Thomas Devlin, a minister without a post, has arrived in town. Devlin supports himself as a journeyman carpenter, and with the town growing rapidly, he has no shortage of opportunities. Establishing himself in a new community has its challenges, but as the newcomer gets to know the young widow whose house he's been working on, he thinks he may have found yet another reason to stay. . . .

 My thoughts:
I enjoyed reading this book.  I have never read any of her books, so I will look to what other books she has written.  It is a great read. 

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House for my review and this is my own opinion.

She's Almost a Teenager: Essential Conversations to Have Now by Peter & Heather Larson and David & Claudia Arp

She's Almost a Teenager: Essential Conversations to Have Now by Peter & Heather Larson and David & Claudia Arp

 Is Your Daughter on the Right Path?
Do you know what your daughter really thinks about boys, school, God, her future? It's not easy to be sure. These and other important topics don't often come up in everyday conversation. Plus, a girl's views on life can shift quickly, thanks to friends, pop culture, and other influences.

Now, with this book, you can connect with your daughter and help her navigate the coming teen years. Based on tried-and-true parenting wisdom, you will find thoughtful questions and talking points that lead to meaningful, natural conversations on key issues, including:

· Physical and emotional changes your daughter is facing
· Taking ownership of her spiritual life
· Using social media responsibly
· and much more

These bonding times will not only help you both get ready for the years ahead, but they will show that you love her dearly.


 My thoughts:

A check list on what to talk to your teens about.  If you don't know what to talk about this will give you some ideas on how to start or get the conversation going.  Each family is different, so take what ever advice works for your own family.  



This book was given to me by Bethany House for my review.  This is my own opinion of this book.

The Photograph by Beverly Lewis

He studied the picture more closely, finding it curious that the young woman looked so boldly into the camera while wearing a white prayer Kapp shaped like a heart--the characteristic head covering for the Lancaster County Old Order Amish.
Why would a devout girl have her picture taken?

When her sister Lily disappears only months after their widowed mother's passing, Eva Esch fears she has been wooed away from the People. Yet Lily's disappearance isn't Eva's only concern: She and her sisters must relocate once their older brother takes over the family farmhouse. Then Jed Stutzman, an Amish buggy maker from Ohio, shows up in Eden Valley with a photo of a Plain young woman. Eva feels powerfully drawn to the charming stranger--but the woman in the forbidden photograph is no stranger at all. . . .


My Thoughts:
I am a fan of Beverly Lewis.  She was one of the first authors that got me reading Amish stories.  She is a talented writer and all her books are beautifully written and heartfelt.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House for my review and this is my own opinion.

In Good Company By Jen Turano

About this book:
After growing up as an orphan, Millie Longfellow is determined to become the best nanny the East Coast has ever seen. Unfortunately, her playfulness and enthusiasm aren't always well-received and she finds herself dismissed from yet another position.

Everett Mulberry has quite unexpectedly become guardian to three children that scare off every nanny he hires. About to depart for Newport, Rhode Island, for the summer, he's desperate for competent childcare.

At wit's end with both Millie and Everett, the employment agency gives them one last chance--with each other. As Millie falls in love with her mischievous charges, Everett focuses on achieving the coveted societal status of the upper echelons. But as he investigates the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of the children's parents, will it take the loss of those he loves to learn whose company he truly wants for the rest of his life?


My thoughts:
I really enjoyed reading this book.  It kept me entertained and I am looking forward to reading her other books.

Note:
I was given this book from Bethany House to review and these are my own opinions.  

Your Sacred Yes: Trading Life-Draining Obligation for Freedom, Passion, and Joy by Susie Larson

Popular Author & Speaker Equips Women to Live Focused and Free Women today are stretched thin, worn weary, and tired of living hurried lives. And nothing drains us more than signing up for things God never asked us to do, even if they are well-intentioned. Yet, all too often that's exactly where we lose our way. In Your Sacred Yes, Susie Larson shares personal stories and biblical insights to help you: · Learn how--and when--to say no without guilt or shame · Say yes to life-giving, not life-draining, activities · Find joy and abundance, fulfillment and freedom, each day When we can't, or won't, say no, we become captive to our commitments instead of free to respond to God's invitations. Here is your chance to say no to others' obligations and yes to the One who will rejuvenate your weary soul. Will you say yes?  

 




My thoughts:
This book helped me slow down and prioritize what is important. I recommend this book. I would suggest to get an actual book, to highlight and make notes on it. That's what I did to my book. Then when I need a reminder I can look over my important (to me) high lights and notes. It was an eye opener for me and to enjoy my life with my family.


Note:  I was fortunate to be picked by Bethany House to receive this book and review it on my blog and on Amazon. These are my own honest opinion and I was not compensated for my review.

A Worthy Pursuit book review.

A teacher on the run. A bounty hunter in pursuit. Can two enemies learn to trust each other before they both lose what they hold most dear? Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts. Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan's Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the orphaned girl entrusted to her care. Charlotte promised Lily's mother she'd keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them. When Miss Atherton produces documentation that shows her to be Lily's legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he's been led to believe. Is she villain or victim? Then a new danger forces Charlotte to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone vows to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he's ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte's heart. My though: I read this book in the evening and by the next day I was done with it. I have never read any of the author's book and I will look for her other stories. I enjoyed reading this book, learning about Charlotte, Lily, Stephen, and John. She is a teacher to these three exceptional students. Then there is Stone. Can he be trusted? Can he see what is the truth and the lies? *This book was given to me from Bethany House for my reviews. I was given the book for free and these are my own thoughts and opinions. I was not paid to review this book.

Amish Promises by Leslie Gould

This book is Book One for Neighbors Of Lancaster County - Book Description Publication Date: April 28, 2015 Journey Down a Quiet Lane in Lancaster County Where Love and Heartache and Friendship and Healing Meet When Joel and Shani Beck arrive at their new home, they're looking for peace. Shani is thrilled to have Joel back from Iraq, but he needs time to heal, and the quiet of Lancaster seems just the place. They can't imagine any trouble with their Amish neighbors, the Lehmans, but things get off to a rocky start when their son is involved in an accident that injures one of the Lehman boys. Eve Lehman has run her brother's household ever since the death of his wife, but Tim's a stern patriarch. Despite his protests, she's drawn to the new neighbor, Shani, and the two begin to form a strong friendship forged on faith and family. Things seem like they've quieted down until Joel's single and handsome army friend Charlie catches Eve's attention--a man unlike any Eve has ever met. Suddenly life for both families becomes more complicated than any of them could have ever imagined. This book was a joy to read. I do not recall reading any of this author's book, but I will look for more. The characters are likeable. I really like reading Amish and Christian stories. It makes me feel humble and be grateful for the things I have, but also make me strive to be a better Wife and Mom. I see them work so hard, having work ethics and always help each other out. *This book was sent to me from Bethany House for my reviews. I posted the review on my blog and on Amazon (my choice to where to post) and these my own thoughts.

How To Enjoy Reading Your Bible- A book review.

I was fortunate to received Keith Ferrin's book called "How to Enjoy Reading Your Bible." I enjoyed reading this book. There were tips and techniques to help me read my Bible. I am in a study group, so I am reading what the required reading, but I want to dig in deeper with my own personal readings aside from the study group. This book has the tools and suggestions to help me read my Bible more. The Bible is challenging to read, but just a few verses a day is a good start is what I always think. This book provides some tips, challenges, suggestion, and bible study guides and questions to help to get you started on reading the Bible. This book was sent to me from Bethany House to read and review. These are my own personal thoughts on this book.

More Than Just The Talk Book Review

I received a copy of More Than Just the Talk by Jonathan Mckee from Bethany Publishers House. I thought the book was helpful in having the talk. It covered a broad topic of social media, what kids can find, and what is available for them on a daily basis. There are topics that were awkward and uncomfortable to discuss, but as a parent I need to be able to talk to my kids about this. I hope I can talk to them and answer the questions they have with honestly and with no judgement. I don't want them to feel bad, but be aware and have knowledge. Times are changing to how it used to be, and I just hope I can do my job. I think with this book I will be ready when that time comes.

I am currently reading ......

I got this book from J K Rock, the author of this great book. I have a few more chapters to go and I will post my review when I am done. The additional post as you see below is from Lola's Blog Tours. She supplied me with these to use. I was not given any money for reading this book. The reviews are my own opinion of this book. I am liking it a lot so far. Nights Under Tennessee Stars (Heartache #2) by Joanne Rock Genre: Contemporary Romance Age category: Adult Release Date: 7 April, 2015

Blurb: Heartache—the best place to heal Erin Finley heads home to Heartache, Tennessee, after the perfect guy turns out to be anything but. She throws herself into running a vintage store with her sister and surrounding herself with the comforts of her small town. Then one rainy night, TV producer Remy Weldon shows up and almost sweeps her off her feet! Remy sees more in Erin than she sees in herself. Quirky, beautiful and capable, he needs her for his antiques show—and for himself. Because Erin is the first star Remy’s found in the very dark night that has become his life. And she might just be able to lead him into the dawn…

You can find Nights Under Tennessee Stars on Goodreads You can buy Nights Under Tennessee Stars here: - Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Kobo - Books A Million - IndieBound - iBooks First book in this series: Promises Under the Peach Tree (Heartache #1) by Joanne Rock Genre: Contemporary Romance Age category: Adult Release Date: 2 September, 2014

Blurb: The trouble with Heartache Nina Spencer swore she was done with Heartache, Tennessee, when she left the town—and her sexy ex, Mack—in her rearview mirror. But when her bakery business is rocked by scandal, she needs a place to regroup. What she doesn't need is Mack Finley reminding her of peach-flavored kisses and the hold he still has on her. Mack never forgot Nina—not that he didn't try. Yet between caring for his family and organizing the annual Harvest Fest, he's overwhelmed and he needs Nina's help. They can work together without getting swept up in memories and the rush of brand-new passion…right?

You can find Promises Under the Peach Tree on Goodreads You can buy Promises Under the Peach Tree here: - Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Kobo - Books A Million - IndieBound - iBooks About the Author: Three-time RITA nominee Joanne Rock never met a romance subgenre she didn't enjoy. The author of over sixty romances from contemporary to medieval historical, Joanne dreams of one day penning a book for every Harlequin series. A former Golden Heart recipient, she has won numerous awards for her stories. Learn more about Joanne's imaginative Muse by visiting her website www.joannerock.com or @JoanneRock6 on Twitter. You can find and contact Joanne here: - Website - Facebook - Twitter - Goodreads - Pinterest - Tumblr

Dollar Tree

I have been loving Dollar Tree all over again.  I was skeptical to use make up for $1.00!  I remember buying this brand, LA Colors years ago, when I was in the Reno area visiting my in-laws.  I remember being pleased with the products.  I came back home and saw those brands at some locally owned dollar store, which has been closed for some time. 

I went to the Dollar Tree a few times to buy newspaper for the coupons, coloring books and things like that.  I didn't really look closely at the make up isle.  Now I am always looking there.  I have gotten some good finds, and yes there were some duds- just didn't work out for me.  That's usually a few since I have an idea of the products.  My favorites are LA Colors- hello pigmented for $1.00- eyeshadows, lipsticks, and face powders.  Profusions are great too.  I have seen Beauty Benefits by Wet 'N Wild another great products.  Recently they have been carrying Physicians Formula.  Maybelline and Aziza.  I know some are probably old, or over stock if there are new packaging that is coming out soon.  Only a few things like the Maybelline Color Tattoos.  I got 2 and put one back since it was cracked - the product.  Of course the other one was sort of dry?  Maybe that was the formula.

I have had good luck with shampoo and conditioners.  Also some deep conditioner by Salon Selectives.  I remember that was a big brand back in the 1990's.  I use the deep conditioner in a tub and it helps with knots and tangles in my hair.  I also like Spa Haaus.  There are a few brands.  It can vary on hair and what you are used to.  I don't expect a miracle for $1.00 shampoo and conditioner, but it gets the job done for my hair. 


I am also liking their brand of face care such as cleansers, face creams, eye creams.  I was skeptical too, so I used with caution.  I am liking it and it works for me.

The cream above and the brush are both from Dollar Tree.  The blue cream in a tube is my eye cream which I like for $1.00.  The other products I purchase from CVS such as the face wipes, Nourishing cream and the CVS brand of lotion.   These products worked for me  and my skin tone and my hair type.  Hope you will find good deals at your Dollar Tree.