It has been a while since I posted ... quite a long while, in fact ... since oh,  2016 or so?

I have given much thought over the past few days to starting up my blog again. Not that I posted frequently, in fact I would go months without posting! It figures that I wouldn't be able to log back in. Maybe one of these days I will be able to figure it out. As you all know, today is the 5th of January, 2025. What is so significant about this day? It's tomorrow that is a significant day - for our family, at least - you see, tomorrow is my granddaughter's 18th birthday! Because she lives in Georgia instead of Alabama, she will be OFFICIALLY an adult.

I remember the day she was born, the long night prior [not in the same way her mother does, mind you!], bringing her home from the hospital, and those precious few days immediately after her birth that mama and I were able to spend with her before we had to fly back home. You see, Samantha Mackenzie was born in Germany when her mama was stationed there. Nine hours in the plane plus another three and a half hours home by car. My baby was a long way from home to be a new mama. I can't even begin to imagine how she felt when we had to get on that plane to come home, but I sure remember being sad at having to leave her and my new granddaughter behind.

I have so many memories of the past eighteen years, Niecy memories. I had the idea that I would be called Nana, you see, because I thought it was a cool name, but Rob's mom was Nana Jane. My mom was Honey. My name came about because mama and Aunt Barbara kept Sam during one of Nik's three trips overseas when she was small. Mama called me Nise or Denise, and so did Aunt Barbara (and Aunt Mary). Suffice it to say that Sam thought my name was Nise (or Denise). No way was little missy going to call me Denise, so we settled on Niecy. [When Jon came along, he couldn't say Niecy. so I was MEESY for a while lol]

Sam, you are now starting a new phase of life - young adulthood. That just seems weird to say - thinking that my baby's baby is now an ADULT. There is so much I want to tell you, and so much that you are simply going to have to learn as you go. Becoming an adult in 2025 is far, far different than becoming an adult in 1982 like I did, or even in 2004 like your mama did. Today's world is not the same as either of ours was. In 1982, my high school had ONE computer, in the library. In 2025, I have three computers in my home, as do you. Let's not even talk about the computers that we carry with us everywhere ... our cell phones! I got my first cell phone in 1998 at age 34. You got your first cell phone at age 12. 

I'll leave you with these thoughts. I am always as near as a phone call, you know that. My door is and will always remain open to you. I am so proud of you, excited for what is to come, yet anxious for you at the same time. You are about to begin the spring semester, which will end your first year of college! How is this even possible?? Go forth and do great things, young one. Your Niecy loves you more than words.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future ... Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last, but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised." -Proverbs 31: 25, 30

What Do They See When They Look At You?

Do you ever have one of those days? You know the days I mean ... the ones where you wake up feeling semi-motivated, and by the time you've been up just a short while, you wonder where the motivation has gone? I seriously think it went back to bed this morning!

Not to bore you with the minutiae of my day, but after breakfast I ventured out to run a few errands before meeting two of my favorite people for lunch. My mama's sisters Mary and Barbara (otherwise known as Aunt May and Aunt Bobbi) come to Dothan usually once a week, and if I'm not working, we meet somewhere for lunch. Today's choice was Express Family Restaurant (between Haven Drive and the Circle near SAMC), and we had a great lunch while talking and laughing the way we always do when we get together. Driving back home, my mind began to think about the past few days and stuck on a conversation I recently had with a patient.

I'm not sure how we even got on the subject, but I remember telling the patient something I had recently read, "Remember that you may be the only Jesus some people ever see." After agreeing, we determined that to be one reason to do your best to always be yourself, while letting others see Jesus in you. Please understand that I am in no way comparing myself to the goodness and perfection that is Jesus. What I understand that statement to mean, however, is that the way I live, the way I interact with others, and my very existence paints a picture. What picture am I painting? 

Do I serve with understanding? Do I speak truth? Do I love others? Oh how many ways I feel that I fail Him daily. You know what? He loves me still. Jesus does not require perfection in His followers! How amazing is that? I'm broken, imperfect, and still struggling at times. And that is okay. 

Jesus, I thank you for loving and believing in me. I know that you are there, that you will guide me if I only listen and have faith to follow your commands.

"Though you may stumble, you will not fall, for the LORD upholds you with His hand."~Psalm 37:24

The Post That Almost Wasn't

Lying in bed, late at night, I listen to the rhythmic sound of my husband's breathing and wonder why peaceful sleep (or any sleep, for that matter) eludes me. The soothing voice of Tahmoh Penikett has failed me this night, for the sleep-inducing meditation did not. Words, phrases, voices, and thoughts fight for recognition in the echoing cavern of my wide-awake mind. In what is now the wee hours of the seventh day of this new year, I stumble over these words and realize that I have thus far made minimal contributions to my 2016.

I had the best of intentions for the new year. Surely I am not alone in dreaming dreams, making plans, and setting some type of expectations for myself at the end of every year. As 2015 drew to a close, I vowed to read and write more, to discipline myself to write each day - even if only a few words, to eat less and move more, to quiet the discomfort and embrace the joy. Why is it, then, that I feel like a failure less than a week into the year?

New Year - New You! Nope, not my idea, I read it somewhere, probably Facebook. I find myself spending far more time there than I should. What started initially as a way to "keep up with friends and family" has turned into a time-consuming black hole for many, a portable soap opera for some, and an almost infinite source of amusement for most. The reality of Facebook, in my opinion, is that it isn't. Reality, that is. What we see of posters lives is what they choose to capture and share. I fully confess my part in the 'perfectionism.' I post the finished product of a kitchen creation, carefully hiding the dirty dishes and spills that usually accompany said creation. Here's a confession: I don't always wash the dishes immediately. I restart the dryer (sometimes more than once) to de-wrinkle my clothes, and I rarely make my bed. Does that matter in the big picture and overall scheme of things? I'm not sure if it does or not, but it obviously bothers me enough to confess my shortcomings.

The worst thing? In three short paragraphs, I have completely managed to change the post I intended to write. The thoughts that kept me awake had nothing to do with Facebook. Struggling with my own perceived imperfections lead my thoughts down roads better traveled in full daylight. Instead of reviewing my fears and delving into the Word for comfort, I scroll through social media and check my email. Why?

Psalm 139 reminds me that I am God's creation, that He knew me before I was me. He created me, He is everywhere and always with me. I am not now, never have been, and never will be perfect. What I do have, however, is His unending love, patience, and care. Psalm 138:3, 7 explains this with great clarity, "On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased ... Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me."(ESV)

What will 2016 bring to the Beadle household? Those answers have yet to be revealed. This much I do know with certainty - those answers won't be found on Facebook. I can only pray for guidance, seek understanding, and strive to follow God's plan, even if that requires me to step out on faith on a path not yet visible to my eyes. Will there be mistakes? Almost certainly. They won't be intentional, and I will certainly strive not to repeat them. Each journey begins with a single step, and this is mine.

"The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands."~PSALM 138:8ESV

I'm Happy For You ...

The title of this book caught my eye immediately, but it was the subtitles that drew me in. In this age of Pinterest and Facebook, we are continually bombarded with images displaying a perfection that seems to relentlessly poke holes in our "real" lives. In our house, we rarely sit down to dinner together. Why? Work schedules and other time constraints. Typed out, however, they sound like pitiful excuses. After all, a family has to eat, do they not? Why not make time to eat together? We leave the laundry in the dryer (and sometimes, in the washer), rarely make the bed, spend too much time online or involved in computer games, and we don't exercise. We are apparently not your typical Pinterest family!



The back cover of Kay Wills Wyma's 2015 book asks "Feeling weighed down by the pressure to be Pinteresting?" Eureka! That's it! The answer immediately came to mind. "Of course." For a while, I refused to even get on Pinterest. Snarky comments chased themselves around in my mind, comments that probably bear a remarkable similarity to those voiced (or not) by the Facebookers who have seen their connection place become overrun by oversharing grandparents and pre-teens. Remember when Pinterest required an invitation? Now, Pinterest chooses pins for you - based on previous things you've pinned.

Paragraph two on the back cover highlights society today: "our cultural obsession with comparison is undercutting relationships and sapping contentment." Isn't THAT the truth! Theodore Roosevelt reminds us that "comparison is the thief of joy." As I sit in front of my computer, stacked high with papers that I really should go through, I am reminded of the absolutely fantastic home of a friend - that has not one single item out of place. Not even in the office. Does that make my office less functional for me? Of course not. I glance down beside my desk and see my dog, half-snoozing while on his self-appointed mission of guard duty (I'm important to him). The empty glass at my right elbow reminds me that not only do I need more water, but that I have an ice maker AND hot and cold running water in my house.

The rain stays outside, for this roof has no leaks. The house is temperate, because we have a functioning heating and cooling system. There are areas of this country, this CITY even, where residents are not so lucky. How can I be so selfish as to complain - even if only in my own mind - about the life of another, when I have so much to be thankful for? Does that make me a bad person? No, I don't think so. It simply makes me human. Instead of focusing on what we have, we tend to focus on what is thrown in our faces, and we are sucked back into the never-ending treadmill of comparison.

Read this book. I think Wyma's take on things will open your eyes.

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."~Phillippians 4:12-13 NIV

I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in return for writing an honest review. The opinions included in this blog are my own. 

Bringing Heaven to Earth

Do you ever start reading a book in the middle, or near the end? While this is not the preferred method (for obvious reasons), there are occasions when it just happens that way. I picked up Josh Ross and Jonathan Storment's Bringing Heaven to Earth, and it fell open to chapter 13. Chapter 13 begins on page 169, pretty close to the end of the book. What struck me so strongly that I continued to read from this odd starting place was the chapter's title, How to Lose the Fear of Failure. How weird is that? This book began speaking to me from the time it fell open to that oh-so-fitting chapter.


Subtitled Fears and Perfection Keep Us from Joining Jesus's Celebration, this chapter begins by explaining the difference between phobias and pet peeves. Before you begin ticking off a list of your pet peeves, bear with me. Chew on this sentence for a moment: "Phobias interfere with life and cause deep personal distress" (Ross & Storment, p. 169).

Why do we fear? The reason for fear is as varied as the number of people who fear. What I fear may be something different that what you fear, or it may be the same, for very different reasons. This is not intended to be a discourse on phobia, but rather an attempt to understand that aha! moment that comes when something is explained so clearly that it suddenly, amazingly, makes perfect sense. "Fear can paralyze decision making that would draw us deeper into the heart and mission of God. There is a reason the command 'Do not be afraid' shows up more than any other command in Scripture ... atychiphobia, a fear of failure" (p. 172). 

I fear failure. There have been times when I refused (and still do) to do something that I do not believe I can do well. If I can't be good at it, I don't want to play (hence the reason I never played team sports). Instead of stepping out on faith, I stepped back. Instead of stepping forward and sharing Jesus, I stepped back into my secure world. Have I denied Him by doing so? Another question that bears asking is "What have I denied me?" Please don't take that in the selfish context that it appears to read. I don't mean that I have missed personal gain, or glory, but rather the possibility of a connection, a shared growth, or the ability to reach out to someone who might need it. Does my fear keep me from living fully for Christ?

This book is well written and well worth a read. It has changed the way I look at Heaven, in a good way. I recommend this book, and will be reading it again. Most likely in the not-so-distant future. (Yes, it was that good).

I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in return for writing an honest review. The opinions included in this blog are my own. 

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.~Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

Be The Message Devotional

The package containing Kerry and Chris Shook's Be The Message was waiting for me when I returned home from work one evening near the end of April. As I opened the book and began to read, I immediately thought that I would do what the book suggested, and take each devotion a day at a time. I didn't end up completing the book that way, but I will be going back and re-reading this book more than once.


Subtitled A 30-Day Adventure in Changing the World Around You, the back cover of this small volume asks a question that resonates - "How will God live out His message through you?"




As you read Day 1, you discover the intent of this devotional guide. Day one starts by OPENing - yourself, God's word, and your mind. The words of John 5:39 are used as a reminder that memorizing scripture does not always equal knowing and living the life of which they speak.

This is an interactive devotional. Each day has space for you to contemplate the message, write down in your own words the message that you have received.

Day 3 spoke to me, really spoke to me. "If you are disappointed or troubled or just weary, God will meet you there. He sits with you in the silence. He whispers His love. Quiet your soul and hear His gentle breathing." (Shook, p. 10) How incredibly awesome is that? God meets me where I am! And stays with me!

The more that you open yourself to Him, the deeper your connection becomes. I have a long way to go - but I am so much closer than I was yesterday.

"Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life." ~ Psalm 143:8 NIV

I received a free copy of this book in return for my open and honest review.

FeelinBeautifulin5

This mask is great!!

A recent trip to the mailbox revealed a #VoxBox (package, actually) from Influenster and Freeman Beauty. Imagine my surprise when I opened the package to reveal not one but FIVE fabulous masks! My favorite so far (yes, I still have one to try) is the Charcoal & Black Sugar Polishing Mask. These masks are available at freemanbeauty.com for under $2 - definitely a great add on to your beauty collection for those 'pamper me' days!

I still have one to try - Coffee & Chai Energizing Paper Eye Mask - looking forward to that!

Last one to try!

I received my masks from@Freemanbeauty and @Influenster for free to try and post an honest review!
#FeelinBeautifulin5
#contest

Finding Your Way Back To God

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren is one of my all-time favorite books, so to read his comment on this book's cover "Absolutely life-changing!" definitely made me sit up and take notice. I have to say, Dave and Jon Ferguson's Finding Your Way Back To God is seriously worth the read, in my opinion.

I challenge each of you who feel as if your connection with God is not what you want it to be to take this journey with me! The Brothers Ferguson start the book with a bang, reminding us on page 1 that we are not alone, and putting forth a challenge on the very next page to "see if God responds." They then boldly ask "Do you dare?"

I am a child of God. When I was 9, I proclaimed my belief and was baptized. Forty-plus years later, I'm still struggling with my identity. Do I believe? Absolutely! Am I a child of the King? Of course! Do I hear that small, still voice? Sometimes. Or at least I think I do. I want to.

The five awakenings - longing, regret, help, love, and life - are part of what the Ferguson brothers call a pattern for the "journey in God's direction." Did you forget about God? Or do you feel God forgot about you? The authors say that more than 90 percent of us believe, but do not feel as if we belong. Sound familiar? It did to me!

Longing - "There's got to be more." While I don't necessarily believe that life is supposed to be perfect, I do believe that there is more to this life than I am currently experiencing. What am I missing? I think a closer relationship God is that something more, and I am seeking Him.

Regret - "I wish I could start over." Surely I'm not the only person in the world who thinks this! There are so many moments in my life that, even now, make me shake my head in disbelief at my sheer stupidity. In God, I am made new, and my sins forgiven if I but ask and believe. If that isn't starting over, I don't know what is!

Help, Love, and Life. My explanation for these three? He can, He does, and HE IS. Find your way back. I invite you to take the journey with me. Need a copy of the book? It's available most anywhere Christian books are sold. Let me know if you can't find it and I'll see what I can do about getting you one. This book has touched a chord deep within, and I feel it needs sharing.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ~ Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Blogging for Books for review purposes. My review is my own opinion, and was required to be neither negative nor positive, simply honest. 

Ten Days Without

Daniel Ryan Day writes an eye-opener in his unassuming Ten Days Without. How much of what we have is simply taken for granted? Will anyone even notice if we do without 'necessities?' If they do notice, will they consider it just a publicity stunt or something to gain notoriety? I don't believe either of these was behind Day's adventures in discomfort (as he terms them). I believe he truly wanted to make a difference by showing how insulated we truly have become.






Ten Days Without was an adjustment, and one that made me realize just how much I don't even think about things in my life that so many would consider luxuries. As I grab my coat or slip on my shoes, I wonder if I could take on - and complete - such a challenge. I don't think so. I am a 'barefooter' by preference, but only within the comfort of my own home or yard. I won't even run an errand barefoot. Maybe that goes back to years of childhood and my mama not letting us 'go to town' or anywhere outside the yard without shoes. I applaud Day's perseverance and agree that our vision needs adjusting. Reading his book was humbling, and made me question what I can do.

I don't know that going without shoes or a coat for 10 days will make me more like Jesus, and I'm not necessarily sure that such a public statement is needed. If I live each day and my life reflects Jesus, will going without shoes make my statement louder? I don't think so. Was the book worth a read? Definitely. Did it open my eyes? It did. Will I take the same path? Doubtful.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in return for my honest review. I was not required to like or dislike the book, only to provide an honest opinion of its contents.volume Ten Days Without. 

Psalm 86:11 "Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." NIV

Oh, Elizabeth

Honey. Granny. Mama. Ma. Mom. Elizabeth. Liz. Jorlyn. Mama went by many names, but she was never Betty or Beth. Granddaddy always called her Elizabeth. Her siblings usually called her Jorlyn. Coworkers called her Elizabeth or Liz. Her 15 favorite people, however, called her Mama, Ma, Honey and Granny. She was stubborn, outspoken, opinionated, and one of the most loving people I have ever known. The three of us were lucky enough to call her mama.

She was born just off Highway 2 in northern Jackson County, Florida, near Malone. The fourth child (second girl) of eight children born to Woodrow and Joyce Hall, Elizabeth Jorlyn Hall attended Central School, then Malone High School. Graduating in 1958, she headed to Virginia to stay with her oldest sister Jessie Fay for a while. At Fort Belvoir, Virginia, she met a young soldier from Ohio named Paul Abel. They married in January of 1960 and had three children - Paul, Jr., Denise, and Cheryl. Mama and Daddy moved around some, settling in Houston County in 1970 on what is now known as Plantation Drive.

Life happens and Elizabeth later married Red Davis, in November 1978. Paul, Jr., and Cindy were married in January 1980. In October, Christopher Paul was born and mama became Granny! Denise had Victoria (Nikki) in March 1986, and mama became Honey. Cheryl gave birth to Elizabeth Ann in January 1987 making mama Granny again. Creighton Michael was born in November 1988, Gideon Troy was born in October 1989. Danielle Elaine was born in September 1992, Ethan Wayne was born in November 1993. The caboose was Cassidy Taryn in May 1998.

Generations continue, with Samantha Mackenzie in January 2007, Catharyn Faith in February 2010, Jonathan David in February 2012, and Alyson Harper in November 2012. Mama's fifth great-grandchild is due January 2015.

Today, December 2, 2014, we let mama go. She is free, whole, and healthy. We love you and miss you!! We will see you again soon ... 

Elizabeth Jorlyn Davis - August 3, 1940 - December 2, 2014

We love you forever!

We Choose to Laugh

Dr. Barry Reisberg developed a staging system framework for Alzheimer's Disease. There are seven stages, although the first three to four stages may be undetected by not only those closest to the patient, but also to the medical professionals who provide their care. Stage 1 presents as no cognitive impairment, no memory issues. I don't understand how this is stage 1; why is there even a stage 1? Stages 2 and 3 seem remarkably similar, although stage 3 is still innocuous enough that some cannot detect the early symptoms of the disease, instead choosing to write them off as part of the normal aging process (alz.org, 2014). Stage 4 is where we found ourselves in January 2013. At this point, mama was still living alone, driving herself, and taking care of every aspect of her life ... or so we thought. Seemingly out of the blue, we receive a phone call telling us that mama had gotten lost on the way to Uncle Robert's house (a fact she vehemently denied) - before sunrise. The three of us come home, trying to find out what is going on with a round of doctor's appointments and testing. A geriatric neuropsychiatrist tells us she can no longer drive, and does not need to have any appliances that do not have an automatic shutoff. The Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) is quite the eye-opener.

This leads to a few months of staying with both myself and Cheryl, and we soon realized that mama could no longer safely live alone. Once the decision was made, we placed her in the Memory Care Unit. At that time, she was teetering between stages 4 and 5 - still fairly lucid for long periods of time, she knew us and our children, knew her siblings and nieces and nephews. Paul, Cheryl, and I decided that we would laugh as often and as much as we could, for we knew the tears would come.

Alzheimer's, like many other diseases, seems to have a mind of its own. While it is 'staged,' some sufferers do not go through all the stages. Each person's journey down this heartbreaking path is unique. Because I am a compulsive reader, I pore over available information, hoping against hope that there will be one bright spot in the grim forecast. There isn't.

Today's visit was not a good one. Although mama eventually called me by name, I am not certain that she knew who I was. I asked her if Paul had come to see her and she immediately responded "no" even though he was just there yesterday. I asked her if Michelle had come to see her and she said "yes, the other day, and Paul came the other day." We give each other progress reports after every visit, good or bad. And we recall good memories, and we laugh.

I started taking pictures as much as I could, of mama and of us, and of us with mama. I take pictures with the grandchildren, and with the great-grandchildren. Earlier this summer, Danielle and I were taking Samantha and Jonathan to see mama. We reminded Sam (she's 7) that Honey's brain was sick, and that Honey might not remember her name. Samantha's response? "That's okay, I'll tell it to her." We laughed.

Today, I cried. She sat in the chair in the dining area, feet swollen and bare, vacant stare looking through me. I said "Hey, mama" and she responded "Hey, mama." No recognition crossed her face. I sat beside her and took her hand. She told me she was okay. She took my hand in both of hers, turned it palm up, and traced every finger on my left hand with her forefinger. Did she do this when I was a baby? I did with my own children - and my grandchildren. And I cried. Not the big ugly nose running red faced cry (that came later), just silent, painful tears.

I'm sorry, mama. I don't think you noticed, and I hope you didn't. When I left you, you were dozing off in your chair, insisting that you were not ready to go to bed. I gave you a hug and told you I loved you, but you were drifting in and out at that point. The tears are not over, but I remember mama calmly walking in the house where an iron skillet was on fire, throwing baking soda on the pan, grabbing a pot holder and walking back out the door with the skillet. When the fire department got there, we were all sitting outside in the yard.

I remember driving down I-95 on the way home from North Carolina when we approach a state trooper. Mama always did have a lead foot, and she slowed down, sure she was about to get a ticket. When the trooper paid her no mind, she sped up and kept on heading home. And I laugh at the memory.

Find the memories that make you laugh, for tears come in abundance. Look for the laughter. Jesus, I ask that your strength enfold us in the days to come. Help us to find the joy and peace that comes with knowing You are in control.

Sing, O heavens! Be joyful, O earth! And break out in singing, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted His people, And will have mercy on His afflicted.~Isaiah 49:13 NKJV

alz.org. (2014) "Seven Stages of Alzheimer's." Retrieved from http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_stages_of_alzheimers.asp?type=eNews_thankyou_page

The God-First Life

Matthew 6:33 tells us "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (NKJV) There are often as many ways to approach a problem as there are problems to approach. In seeking God, which approach is the right one to take? In this book, Stovall Weems reminds us that often, the best way to look at something is to strip away the extraneous and view what matters - in this case, living a life that puts God first. If we follow the instructions given in Matthew 6:33 - it is broken down into its most basic level. Seek first the kingdom of God!

Putting God first in your life does not mean, in my interpretation, to do so when you get around to doing so. If HE is at the front and center, all else will fall into place as it should. Put God first! He will work things out according to His plan. His plan for my life is different from His plan for your life, and that is okay because we are different, even though our ultimate goals may be very similar. Everyone has a different journey, even if their final destinations are the same. When the priority (God First) is established, the way becomes clearer.

Putting God first does not mean that the road will be always smooth, nor does it mean that every answer will immediately become clear. What it does mean is that you are not, nor will you be, alone in your travel. If you put God first, He will be your guide through rough spots, your calm in the storm, and your GPS with correct directions! The most complex can be made simple, by making your number one priority making God first.

A relatively quick read, filled with useful information and no platitudes. Read it. You won't regret it.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Storm Inside

The way we see ourselves and feel about ourselves is not always what others see in us. In this book, Sheila Walsh doesn't sugar coat feelings. She does not tell you that you should feel a certain way, and she does not tell you that life will be perfect just because you are a child of God. She is well aware that some days, you wonder why you even bothered to get out of bed. In the introduction, Sheila tells a story of a speaking engagement in 2012 that changed the way she thought. 

Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name ~ Psalm 86:11 ESV

Focused on this verse, Sheila admitted to her audience "for years, I had hidden behind ministry, praying that the work I did for God would somehow tip the scales in my favor and outweigh the feelings of shame and fear that dragged me down. Honestly, I had no idea that I could live another way - an unburdened way - based on the finished work of Christ and not on anything I did."

Based upon an exercise used in her ministry that day, Sheila discovered that women - regardless of strength of faith - often let their feelings become burdens. The surprising discovery was that the feelings are the same, over and over.

Heartache. Disappointment. Fear. Bitterness. Unforgiveness. Anger. Regret. Abandonment. Shame. Insecurity.

Each chapter of this book deals with a different one of these ten feelings, and Sheila Walsh is indeed a storyteller. I found myself eagerly looking forward to her next story, her next sharing. I did not feel so much as if I were reading a book as if I felt that I was reading a letter from a friend. Explaining instead of chastising, she reminds us that some of these words are horribly misused in everyday conversation. The example she uses in Chapter One is of a football team's loss - often referred to as heartbreaking. Sad? Yes. Disappointing? Yes. Heartbreaking? I don't think so - it is, after all, only a game.

Sheila Walsh does not belittle these feelings like some authors that I have read, instead she empathizes and understands. Then, she turns the focus to the Master Healer. Reminding us that He is greater than ANY problem we might face, she gives us the words of Peter: "Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you" ~ 1 Peter 5:7.

I enjoyed this book, and would recommend it for anyone who has ever experienced any of the feelings listed above. Even if you are happy: READ THIS BOOK!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

God's Word For Our World

I was so excited to see The Modern Life Study Bible as one of the books available for review! I had been searching for a new Bible for a while, and this one struck me as one with a different perspective than I was used to. First and foremost, I am a traditionalist. My first Bible was the King James Version (KJV), and for years, I did not stray far from it. Something about departing from the very formal and structured language felt wrong to me. Over the years, I had picked up and read, or tried to read, some other translations like The Message, and just couldn't do it. It didn't feel right. To my mind, at the time, it seemed almost disrespectful. This wasn't some paperback pulp fiction, this was The Bible! Gradually, I branched out to the New International Version (NIV), became comfortable with its verbiage and rhythm, and have stayed with that translation for more than ten years.

What you can't see from the cover image shown here are the banners at the top and bottom that very plainly state that this Bible is the New King James Version (NKJV).  The NKJV is not a translation that I had read prior to receiving this Bible, so being the book-lover that I am, I dived right in!

The flyleaf introduction gave a hint that this Bible was not going to be just another study version. Calling it an "innovative, informative resource for modern believers" and reminding us that problems have been around as long as humans have been around - and the solution lies within God's word. Each book is prefaced with an introduction, setting the stage for what is to come. Genesis, for example, God creates a good world. Genesis sets the stage for everything that follows by taking us back to the beginning - the very beginning - of everything. As a reader familiar with the Bible, these introductions give me a different perspective. As a reader who may not be familiar with the Bible, these introductions would let me know what was in store!

Like some textbooks I have had, this Bible also has key events for each chapter outlined, focus articles that explain or highlight certain verses and how they relate to us today - such as your workstyle (Titus 2:9-11), and insight articles that give background on everything from brickmaking (Genesis 11:3) to the fall of cedar forests (Zechariah 11:1-3) to being rich in faith (James 2:5-6).

I expected a Bible. What I received was so much more. This Bible will be my companion for years to come, for there is much to learn, to read, to share, and to savor. Truly, a gift, indeed!

"To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven" ~ Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Humble Orthodoxy

Blogging for Books sent me an email today, one of many that they have sent in the past months. I am ashamed to say that I read them and move on, for some reason not making the connection that I should. For whatever reason, today's message sent me to the website where I was reminded that I needed to post a review (imagine that), of an unassuming little book that has been sitting on the shelf in my office since last year. I removed the book from the shelf, looked at it, thought "Yes, I read that book. Why didn't I write the review?"

I opened the book, more to refresh myself than anything, before I started writing, and was almost immediately grabbed by a simple statement in the foreword. J.D. Greear writes "A great deal of damage is done by those who hold the truth of Christ with the spirit of Satan." I thought about that statement off and on all day. Pretty humbling, actually.

If I do nothing but sit around and complain, calling attention to the shortcomings of others without making an effort to be of service if I am able - where does the problem lie? I am not perfect, and neither is anyone else that I know. The only perfect person that has ever walked the face of the earth is Jesus. Who am I to judge?

Acknowledgements included, this little book is less than 90 pages. Just a few minutes reading for me. Until, that is, I start reading. Turning the pages for the second time, I read things differently that I did the last time that I read this book. Before chapter one begins, you are referred to 2 Timothy 2:23-25, "Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth." This made me laugh, and I am relatively certain that was not the original intent.  However, when these verses were written, three things did not exist that are an inherent part of today's society:  politics, football, and Facebook.

How can I compare these with those words? Easy. Take the events of the last few months (or years, or however long you choose to go back) into consideration. In most parts of the United States, and especially in the South, something very important happens. You guessed it - football season! Every year, and even more so with the immediacy of social networking, the trash talking commences. I'm guilty of it to some degree, as are most football fans.  What I have come to realize, however, is something that some fans just cannot seem to comprehend - it's just a game. Yes, we want our team to win and we want the other team to lose, we want to be the best! Guess what, folks, it's still just a game. One team wins, and one team loses, and life goes on. Plays are brilliantly executed, plays are messed up. Calls are spot on, and sometimes we wonder if the officiants can see. It's still just a game. Next week, next month, next year ... will it matter who won? You may not remember who caught the winning TD or who made that amazing run, but odds are you will remember the hurtful and hateful comments, the snarky responses and the mean words.

If you think football season is bad, politics is much worse. Heaven forbid someone voice an opinion that another disagrees with - you'd think - well, after reading down a list of comments on a post of that type, and you wonder exactly who is thinking, if anyone.  And no, I don't blame Facebook, or Twitter, or any other form of social media. I don't even blame the mainstream media. Why? Because it boils down to one simple thing. Choice. And that, my friend, is up to you and I.

We have the choice - to speak, or to remain silent. To stand our ground for what we believe, or to remain silent. To argue passionately, or to remain silent. To feed the controversy, to fan the flame, or to turn it off. To change the channel, to avoid the comment - or to avoid the negativity in commenting.

What I think Joshua Harris is telling us in his volume is that believers do not have to remain silent - but neither to we have to be belligerent. The old saying that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar holds more than a shred of truth. Continuing along those lines, however, the simple fact remains that avoiding conflict does not make your conviction stronger. We must remember this - "The message of Christian orthodoxy isn't that I'm right and someone else is wrong. It's that I am wrong and yet God is filled with grace. I am wrong, and yet God has made a way for me to be forgiven and accepted and loved for eternity."

Read this book. Small book, big message. Worth every word.

This book was provided for review at no cost to me by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. I was not required to write a favorable review.

31 Days to Happiness

What do you know about Solomon? From what I remember (not much, admittedly), he was considered to be wise and just. What I didn't know was what Dr. David Jeremiah hints at in his preface and introduction, and what he elaborates upon as the book develops. There is so much more to know about King Solomon ... "The wisest man on the face of the earth" - definitely able to teach us a thing or two, wouldn't you say?

In 31 Days to Happiness, David Jeremiah walks us through the struggles, through the pain, through the understanding, and the growth of wisdom of King Solomon. 


Who was King Solomon, this wise man of the Bible? Son of David and Bathsheba, a wise and trusted ruler. A man who drifted away from God. A man who found his way back.

What I once knew but forgot about Solomon, I was reminded of in the book's introduction: the three books called his legacy. Song of Solomon, of course. Dr. Jeremiah calls this "rhapsody of passionate romance" the book of "the morning of his life." Proverbs, written during his strong years - or the "noontime of his life" - is a "heavenly rule book for earthly living".  If Song of Solomon is passionate love and Proverbs is the rule book, what in the world is Ecclesiastes? Ecclesiastes is "a regretful retrospective," or what happens when you wake up to find that not only do you not know it all, you know exactly what you don't know.

Solomon could have - and did, at a point in his life - have nearly everything he could possibly want. When God asked him what he wanted, Solomon asked for wisdom. Wisdom! Would that we could have it bestowed upon us, instead of having to earn it through making mistakes ...  Solomon was a very wise man, indeed. But even wise men can be dumb sometimes. And so, too, can we.

We are not supposed to have all the answers. We are supposed to seek He who does have those answers. This book tells us about Solomon, his decisions, the consequences of those decisions, and his regrets. The subtitle of this book, How to Find What Really Matters in Life, sums it up nicely. It is not about what we have, it is about what we do with what we have. Those aren't new words, I can't claim them as my own. What I DO know, however, is that life isn't about things and knowing all the answers. Life is about living for Jesus, in a way that allows Him to shine through us. Life is about knowing who DOES have all the answers - and actively seeking Him. From Bored to Death (chapter 2) to Dollars and Sense (Chapter 13), from Employment without Enjoyment (chapter 15), to the Power of Wisdom (Chapter 22), Dr. David Jeremiah walks us through the life of a fascinating man. What I learned in the process was a lot about Solomon ... and even more about Denise.

Lord, I have so much learning to do. I ask for your grace and mercy as I stumble through this journey of discovery. Please guide me to you in all that I do. Help me to be as You would have me be, every day, one step at a time.

"Wisdom is good with an inheritance, And profitable to those who see the sun. For wisdom is a defense as money is a defense, But the excellence of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to those who have it." ~ Ecclesiastes 7:11-12


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Let Hope IN

 


Before you wonder if my finger got stuck on the caps lock key, let me reiterate the title: Let Hope IN.  No, Pete Wilson did not title his book that way (well, I say that, but then again, the book title is in all caps ... ).  After reading this book, however, it has become increasingly clear that I can read book after book, listen to a plethora of speakers, or search the Internet all day long for answers, suggestions, or ideas - none of which will come to fruition if I do not make the conscious decision to internalize whatever piece of advice or words of wisdom that my eyes see or my ears hear.  Simply reading words do not make them a part of your vocabulary or life, you have to understand and apply them.  You have to make a conscious decision to make a change.  


I will be the first one to admit that I am stubborn, at times set in my ways, and *gasp* even overly confident if I am certain of my ideas.  One of the biggest struggles that I have currently is an inability to step away from the past.

This is the first of Pete Wilson's books that I have read, but it will not be the last.  The subtitle of this book is 4 Choices That Will Change Your Life Forever.  I have read so many books that claim they will change you, change your life, change your mindset ... you know the drill.  I am sure I am not the first to read with a "show me" attitude.  Pete Wilson grabs you and pulls you in from the beginning. His four choices are simple, and for some, may be eye-opening.  It certainly was for me.

Choice One: Choosing to Transform instead of Transfer.  Think about it.  If we don't truly make a change, we end up rehashing the same things. Over and over again.  In terms of the past ... "your past is not your past if it's still impacting your present." No, it's not. If you do not change something, you will continue to have the same problem. Remember this: "God is bigger than your history and more concerned with your destiny."

Choice Two: Choosing to Be Okay with Not Being Okay.  Does that sound like a big change from many so-called self-help books? Think about it ... sometimes, it is NOT going to be okay.  No matter what you do, there are going to be times of self-doubt, worry, and maybe even fear.  You are not alone in your struggle, remember that.

Choice Three:  Choosing to Trust Rather than Please.  I think this particular choice ties in rather well with choice two.  Instead of killing yourself trying to be perfect to please anyone, everyone, or because you think it is what God wants from you, remember this: He knows all of you, and loves you just as you are.  Can you step outside yourself for just a minute and trust Him with that knowledge?  He loves you just as you are.  Trusting in Him, even though you feel that you are not as "perfect" as you should be, is a big step.  I don't have to try and please God by becoming perfect, He loves me and all my imperfections.  He accepts me as I am.

Choice Four: Choosing to Free People Rather than Hurt Them.  This was a big step for me.  I mentioned earlier about the past.  There are parts of my past that I replay in my head, far more often than I should.  Wondering why I did what I did, and why I can't simply forget about it and move on.  Why? Because I have not yet let go.  Reading through the first part of choice four, a chapter titled Breathe Grace, I was floored by a few simple words.  We know we should forgive and move on.  Do we? Not always.  When we forgive, however, we are saying that we recognize that there was a wrong, and we are choosing to move past it.  "My understanding of God's forgiving me despite me enables me to forgive others despite others."  Make sense? It will ... The next sentence clarifies it.  The bold, italic emphasis is my own - that is how much it affected me. "And while this act of forgiveness may not erase your past hurt, it does erase the power it has over you.  It allows your past to truly become just that - your past."  You are not going to miraculously transform your past into perfection, the scars of past pain are not going to go away. They will, however, begin to heal.  And that, my friends, is the true power of forgiveness.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

You'll Get Through This

Who can resist a book with a subtitle that offers Hope and Help?  I couldn't, and that is why I chose to review Max Lucado's You'll Get Through This.  I have been a fan of Max Lucado's work for many years - he has a way of cutting through the fluff and getting straight to the point - and I like that.  When I am having a hard time, when I am feeling down or distressed, I do not want platitudes.  Life IS rough sometimes, and no amount of sugar-coating will change that.

"You'll get through this.  It won't be painless.  It won't be quick.  But God will use this mess for good.  Don't be foolish or naive.  But don't despair either.  With God's help, you'll get through this" (p. 3).  Simplistic, right? Mouthing platitudes? No.  Sometimes in life, we are going to hurt.  Sometimes that pain will last far longer than we thought it would, and longer than we think we are equipped to handle.  Remember this, please, when you want to give in - God is bigger than any problems we might have. ANY problems.

As Paul states in Second Corinthians, "Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Cor. 4:17 NIV).  What is pain compared to the eternity that awaits us?  I am not saying that living with pain is fun. I am saying that living with pain knowing that there are far better days ahead might not be optimal, but it can be tolerable.

Wound throughout this book, Max tells the story of Joseph.  You remember Joseph, from Sunday School? The one with the cool multicolor coat? The one whose brothers hated him so much that they threw him in a pit and left him to die? He showed them, didn't he?? Rescued and eventually in a position of power, he didn't shun his brothers when they came in need.  He offered love - after he threw them in prison, made them sweat a little. He got through it. And so can you.  Remember, "your history doesn't have to be your future" (p. 105).

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Runaway Emotions

Jeff Schreve is a pastor whose explanation of our emotions hits home.  From the time I started reading this book, I found myself nodding my head in agreement - or thinking "How did he know that? He doesn't know me!"  Along with each explanation, he offers a biblical story, real-life example, or both. I have read many books of this genre, but I can honestly say that this particular book stands out in a way that the others have not - it speaks to me in a language that I can both understand and relate to. 

His chapter on depression was quite the eye-opener. Certainly I am not the only person who was brought up with the idea that depression is "all in your head" -- one did not discuss things of that sort. You just took a deep breath, and went on about your business, without  letting anyone know if there were problems.

Unlike many authors of the "self-help" genre, Jeff Schreve does not claim to have all the answers. He offers humor, Biblical principles and Bible verses entwined with real-life examples to drive his points home in a most effective way. Before I had gotten through the first chapter, the highlighter was out and the pages were folded down as a reminder of a point that I wanted to revisit.

Will Runaway Emotions have the answers that you seek? Only you can answer that question. For this reader in particular, Jeff Schreve has hit a home run.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Closing A Chapter

I received a short text message from my brother yesterday while I was at the gym. It literally stopped me in my tracks, and it consisted of only four words: "house in realtor's hands." This was the final step in a journey that began in January of this year and took a definitive turn in May. Our decisions were not made lightly, nor were they made without many hours of thought and tearful discussion. What it boils down to in the end, however, is one simple fact: it still hurts. 

Dementia is a viciously ugly disease. It knows no restrictions and can affect anyone. There is no known cure. A year ago, I would have nodded my head in sympathy, while quietly giving thanks that it wasn't me and mine. Seven months ago, it became mine. Not that we didn't suspect, or sometimes have that feeling that something just wasn't right ... but to have those thoughts and feelings confirmed is still a hateful blow. The questions began. The self-doubt began, and still, to some extent, continues. "Did we do the right thing?"

As I pulled into the parking lot at the nursing home, she turned and looked at me and stated "I'm not going here." When I put my truck in park, she crossed her arms reminiscent of Samantha and stated "I'm not getting out. You can't make me." I unbuckled her seat belt. She buckled it back. Strangely, that was the first time in months that she had fastened a seat belt without difficulty. "I'm not going." I don't know what my face looked like, but apparently there was this pleading "Help Me!" written across it. My brother opened the passenger door, and when she turned to tell him she wasn't getting out, he simply looked at her and said "Come on, mama." I unbuckled her seat belt and she slowly got out of the vehicle, walking beside him. My sister and I fell into step, our pace speaking volumes about the heartbreaking decision we had made.

When we got inside, one of the aides from the unit came down the hall and put her arm around mama. She began making conversation with her, and gently led her down the hall. We watched, and wondered. Paperwork, conversation, paperwork, questions. Then you walk away, hoping against hope that you have not made a mistake. Logically, you know you haven't. Emotionally, you feel like a traitor. You feel as if you have abandoned the one person who would never abandon you.

Emptying the house was a lengthy, painful process. What to keep? What to do with what you don't keep? There were many, many items found that made us stop, look at each other and say "Huh?" Memories unfolded, time and time again. The realization that she is never again going to come home, never again going to live in this house is overwhelming.  How do you say goodbye?

I'm going home in a couple of weeks. I haven't decided whether or not I will drive by the house. I don't know how I"ll handle it. Where will we sit around the table and drink coffee at all hours of the day or night? Where will we all get together and visit? Will we even get together and visit anymore? How do I explain it to my granddaughter when I don't feel like I fully comprehend it myself? I"m almost 50 years old. I have my own home, have children and grandchildren of my own. But mama's house isn't mama's house anymore.

Lord, I ask for strength and peace. For all of us. We are fond of saying that "we have two choices: laugh or cry. We choose to laugh." Please, help us to find the laughter.

"the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace."~Numbers 6:25-26 NIV