Coming Home by Stacy Hawkins Adams

This is the first book that I have read by this author. I liked the writing style and the character development. Traveling along on the journey with Dayna was interesting to say the least. Even though I kind of sensed where the story would wind up I enjoyed the journey.

Dayna is single and dating a wonderful man when out of the blue her past shows up at her door. This past arrived in the form of her ex-husband with a bouquet of roses. Brent had been trying to reach her for a couple of months now via letter, but Dayna didn't want to have anything to do with him since during their marriage he cheated on her with a friend. He eventually married the woman he cheated with. Brent wanted to apologize for the way he had treated her and to share some news. I kind of new what that news would be, but it didn't take anything away from the story.

Following Dayna on this journey of forgiveness and discovering the lessons that God wanted to teach her was touching and encouraging to say the least. I know this is fiction, but I can't help but be amazed at how God can use stories and real life situations to enlighten our hearts and minds and to show us things we might need to hear, even if the particular area doesn't pertain to what we are dealing with

She Did What She Could by Elisa Morgan

She Did What She Could. Five very powerful words. Elisa Morgan uses these five little words to show all of us that it doesn't take grand gestures to accomplish what God wants us to do. First we need to give ourselves a break. Lay off of the self criticism. We are adequate enough to accomplish what God wants us to do. It doesn't have to be a big thing. Maybe just getting a meal for a homeless person. Giving a little extra tip for a waiter or waitress. Offering to do some simple task for someone in need. It doesn't take alot to make a difference.

If I do what I can; if you do what you can; if we do what we can, imagine what changes could be made in this world. A couple cans of food for a food pantry is something pretty easy to do and is a tremendous help. This book and the examples amongst it pages, challenged me to do more. It is so easy for me to tell myself that I couldn't possibly make a difference, or that I can't do certain things. But I can. I just can't imagine how this world could change if we thought outside of ourselves more and reached out in simple ways to show God's love for others.

It won't take long to read, and it isn't a very expensive book. It does have a very powerful message to everyone. I plan on do my best to do what I can!!

The Daddy Surprise by Ginny Aiken

I loved this book. I enjoy the author's mystery series as well.

Lucie and her daughter Chloe have just moved to Lyndon Point. Lucie has been searching for Chloe's father ever since their summer fling. Chloe is a result of that fling. Lucie tried to find him after she realized she was pregnant, but since Ryder didn't use his proper name when he was with her she had no idea how to find him. Lucie used a shorter version of her name too, so when Ryder tried to find her, he came to a dead end.

Ryder is the mayor of Lyndon Point and is just a little overwhelmed with the news that he has a daughter. Not only does he now have a daughter, but Lucie is trying to buy a house that Ryder won't let go of because of a mistaken notion of loyalty to a sister that he can't even find. Will Ryder be able to set aside his control tendencies in order to open up his heart to the possibility of a future with this beautiful little girl and her mom.

Ginny Aiken has the ability to wrap you up in her stories. The characters jump off the page and endear themselves to you. I couldn't help but cheer for Lucie in her attempts to help Ryder see clear to leave his past behind and move on to a wonderful future with the women he loves.

A very good read!!

Like Dandelion Dust by Karen Kingsbury

I loved this book, even if it made me cry. I haven't read very much by Karen Kingsbury, but I intend to read several if not all sometime in the future.

Molly and Jack seem to have the ideal life. They have a beautiful son named Joey who is the light of their life. Joey is almost five and although he isn't theirs by blood, they couldn't love him anymore than if he were. Molly is especially happy because her sister Beth and her family have just moved to the area so they can be close again. Beth and Bill are Christians and try to encourage Molly and Jack that God is important, but until Molly and Jack realize that the life they have is falling down around them in pieces, God just doesn't seem that important to them.

This is a story of what a childlike faith can do. Praying for things to be according to the will of God isn't the easiest thing in the world to pray for, especially when it could meant that someone you love might be taken away from you. Through Molly and Jack you will see what a simple seed of faith can do. This obviously doesn't mean that everything will always go the way we want, but it does help to understand being in the right attitude with Him.

Very touching story. Characters seemed so real. Loved it!!!

The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom

I picked up this book with great anticipation looking forward to turning each page. When I started reading I was frustrated with the style the author chose. I liked his other fiction stories and was expecting to find the same style amongst the pages. When I found a totally different style and was disappointed. But I decided to keep going and this story is so worth the effort.

The story follows Dor, Victor and Sarah. Dor lived during the early Bible times during the time of the tower of Babel being built. Dor has an obsessive desire to figure out how long it takes for things to happen and invents ways to count and determine time. He winds up in a cave as Father Time where he spends eternity having to listen to people pray for more time. Victor is a wealthy man who is dying from cancer. He faces it the way he does everything else; he wants to find a way to beat death. He doesn't care what his wife thinks and is determined to find a way to live longer. Sarah is a teenager experiencing love for the first time. Her love interest doesn't seem to be as interested in her and makes her live so intolerable that she wants to end it.

Dor arrives on the scene and shows them what comes after they have left this world. He shows them that there is reason God limits our days. To make each one precious. What a wonderful lesson to learn. It is amazing how much time we can waste wishing for more time. Time is precious and we need to take advantage of what we are given.

Death of a Red Heroine by Qui Xiaolong

I wasn't sure if I was going to like this, but I did. There are a few things that seem somewhat awkward, but over all very good.

A young woman is found wrapped in plastic and discarded in a channel. It was determined that the identity of the dead woman was the National Model Worker Guan Hongying. Parts of her name means red and hero which is where the title of the book cam from. Chief Inspector Chen is assigned the case. He is the head of the special case squad, and the political implications of this murder put this case on his desk. The thinking was that because of his status in the Party he would not examine the evidence to closely or not stir up the higher ups.

Chen discovers that the lead suspect is the son of one of the High Cadre. This is definitely not going to be an easy case to prove. His future and the future of Inspector Yu are on the line in this mystery set in China during the time right after Tienanmen Square. Trying to do their jobs both men wind up stepping on toes and get assigned to different special assignments until the higher ups decide whether to go after the main suspect or not. Chen won't give up and secretly sets about to find the evidence to prove his case.

It was well written and the political aspects where interesting.

Hello!?!

Many times during the past week or so I have wondered about many things.  I know that God has a purpose for me.  I just wish that sometimes that purpose was somewhat clearer to me.  I know that part of what is bothering me is my shoulder.  I don't understand many things, but pain and illness seem to boggle my mind the most.  I know when you can get past certain trials in life that things become clearer as to why they were put in our lives to begin with.  What bothers me the most is that the places that I like to serve at church are being affected.  I love taking care of the babies and little kids at church.  Working in the nursery has been apart of my life as long as I can remember.  The pain in my shoulder flares up at unexpected times and there have been several times that I have almost dropped things because of it.  Didn't think it would be a good idea to take a chance with a child.  Hurts my heart to step back from those ministries.  Hoping that I can return to them soon.  But then I see that God has brought other things into my life that are just as fulfilling and can be a ministry also.  It is hard to see a change in the path of your life but knowing that God's hand is in it makes it easier.  Help me to be patient Lord.  Help me to see what you want for me.  Use my gifts to serve you.

The Quilter's Apprentice by Jennifer Chiaverini

I loved this story. I almost decided not to read it. Why? I have no idea. It was a beautifully put together story of love, family and healing.

Sarah is happily married still in that wonderful newlywed stage of life. Matt works at the college helping to maintain the campus. Sarah is working in an accounting firm where she feels stuck. Matt loses his job at the college and is struggling to find a permanent full time job. He does find a job opportunity, but it means pulling up stakes and moving. The work Matt is doing is for a landscaping company. Sarah struggles to find another job in her field, even though she is not even sure she wants another accounting job.

Then Sarah meets Mrs. Compson, the owner of Elk Creek Manor. Matt is hired to spruce up the grounds so they can be ready for the new owner. Mrs. Compson hires Sarah to help her clean up the Manor and sort through the items that have begun to clutter in the many rooms. Sarah decides to take the job with one condition. Sarah wants Mrs. Compson to teach her how to quilt. She has always wanted to learn how and Mrs. Compson agrees.

What follows is shared memories from a painful past that lead to healing. While cleaning and stitching both women find the balance they are looking for. This story is beautifully woven together as carefully as you would piece together a beautiful quilt. You will grow to love the characters and will have a hard time waiting for the conclusion. Highly recommended.

Murder, She Wrote: Panning for Murder by Jessica Fletcher, Donald Bain

Jessica was just about to set off on a cruise to Alaska. She wanted to spend some time by herself enjoying nature and the wildlife of the area. Those plans for solitude quickly get pushed aside when long time friend Kathy Copeland asks to go along with her. Weeks before Kathy's sister went missing on the same cruise that Jessica was about to embark on. Kathy hopes that if she travels with Jessica that she would be able to enlist her help with the search for what happened to her sister.

Jessica and Kathy are on their way to the wilds of Alaska. Enjoying some sightseeing along with following in the footsteps of Wilimena "Willie" Copeland's journey. A suspicious looking man seems to be keeping a close eye on their movements and when he winds up overboard, Jessica becomes highly suspicious.

I love the Murder, She Wrote series on TV. In fact I am currently watching them on NetFlix. This series of stories are quick read and very entertaining. They included suspense, humor and of course intrigue and murder. They are light mysteries just like the TV show and are fun to pick up when you want a quick and easy read.

The Xibalba Murders by Lyn Hamilton

Lara receives a cryptic phone call from Dr. Hernan Castillo. Dr. Castillo is an expert in Mayan history. He requests Lara come visit to help him with something. So Lara heads to Merida, Mexico. When she arrives he doesn't show up for their meeting. Not unusual for the Dr. Castillo to disappear for a few days, but when no one hears from him, his friends become worried. What was he looking for? When the good doctor shows up dead, Lara is on the hunt for what he was searching for and for who killed him.

When I started reading this story I was skeptical as to whether I was going to like it. But I found myself engrossed in the story and waiting to turn every page. The characters were engaging and likeable. There was some history interspersed within the story, but it was done it a way that helped the story and didn't detract from it.

Consistency

I haven't really blogged for awhile about what God has been teaching me.  There is a good reason for that.  Lately I haven't really been seeking out God.  I belong to a group on FaceBook that consists of all women.  We share prayer requests and challenges that we are facing.  It is a secure place to share some of the deeper needs of your heart, there is not judging, just open hearts and minds. 

In the past several weeks I have noticed that the ladies in the group have been posting about wanting consistency in seeking out quiet time with the Lord.  Time to read the bible and to seek Him in prayer.  I have been nodding right along with them.  I want that too.  I have the time.  I am a housewife and spend the majority of my time at home puttering around doing the basics: laundry, cleaning and cooking.  So I don't have the excuse of a job or children schedules to keep me from what I seek.  So why can't I find the time to spend with my Savior.  I have no excuse!!  But yet I try to make them anyway.

About a week ago I went through a box in our spare room and took out all our books and wedged them somehow into our book shelves.  I found a couple of books by Charles Swindoll that I have had for years.  So I decided to pull one out and start to go through it.  The book I chose was Growing Strong In The Seasons of Life.  So with renewed ambition I took it downstairs and placed it on the kitchen table along with the bible study I had started on Jonah (actually barely started), and the book I had gotten to read for the summer book discussion group for church.  It has sat there for a week until today.  We are currently in a small financial crisis and the outlook at first glance was catastrophic.  I reached out to the ladies in my FaceBook group (some of whom I haven't personally met) and asked for prayer.  It was a relief to know that these wonder ladies would pray for us.  God would provide!  It is amazing how you can reach out and lay something before God with one hand and as soon as it is laid down your other hand is reaching out to grab it back.  I could here God telling me to calm down and look more clearly,  that things probably aren't as bad as I think.

I reached out is desperation to our church and some help was provided.  I examined our food supply and things aren't as dire as I thought.  There is still some need there, but not as bad as I thought.  There was a prescription need which might not be as imminent as I thought.  The cats are still a concern, but God showed me, through a reminder by a dear friend, that my needs were being met before I even knew we had it.  So in the midst of my turmoil I started cleaning hoping that I could expel some of this pent up frustration.  I began cleaning off the kitchen table and low and behold there was that Charles Swindoll book again.  Peaking out from under my bible.  A gentle reminder perhaps of what I had decided to start and didn't!!!  Probably!!  So I sat down and opened the cover and started turning the pages.

The first section is Winter A Season of Reverence (talk about timely).  The introduction talked about winter and how cold and barren things can be.  How shadowy and dark things appear.   At the end it asked this:  Is it winter right now in the season of your life?  Are you feeling depressed... alone... overlooked... spiritually on "hold"... cold... barren?  beginning to wonder if your sole will ever thaw?  Entertaining doubts that behind those thick, gray clouds there exists a personal, caring God?   This is a kind of smack me between the eyes moment.  I have been feeling like this to a degree.

The first entry for this Winter section had to do with Consistency and how important it is in our walk with God.    I especially liked how it was described.  Consistency: It's the jewel worth wearing...  It's the anchor worth weighing...  It's the thread worth weaving...  It's the battle worth winning.

My first thought was how strange that the first thing I read is about what I struggle with the most.  Really!!  Why am I surprised that God would have something I needed?  When will I learn.  The one thing I and others seem to be struggling with the most is the first thing I read about.  It is nice to know that I am not alone in striving to be consistent.  I want to be a stronger Christian, able to go with the flow when struggles and difficult times happen.  I want to never doubt that God will provide my needs.  It is so hard to be thankful during a difficult situation.  I think I needed a reminder of that.  Although I probably wouldn't have minded learning it in a different way.

Lord thank you for today and the difficulty I have experienced.  Thank you for the provisions you have already made and those you will continue to provide.  Help me to seek you first and foremost.  I want to be consistent in my walk with you, but sometimes it is so hard to be.  Thank you for the lesson you taught me today!

The Zero Hour by Joseph Finder

Sarah Cahill is asked to head a task force to capture an unknown person or persons who might or might not be a threat to a major bank in New York. Very well written and it keeps you on your toes from the first page. I found a slight predictability during one section, but it didn't detract from the story as a whole.

A prisoner in South Africa is helped to escape to conduct a special job. The prisoner is known as the Prince of Darkness and is supposed to be the best at his job. His job is whatever someone whats done at a good price. They are paying for his expertise and that he doesn't leave any clues that would lead back to the person/persons doing the hiring.

I have read another book by this author and found it just as intriguing. A very exciting read.

Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson

Lena is on a bus heading to New Haven, MN. She is hoping for a fresh start in this new town. Lena was just released from prison, gaining an early release for good behavior. She meets Moria on the bus and they become fast friends. Moria senses there is more to Lena story, seeing the hurt underneath the tough outer shell that Lena portrays. Lena struggles to know whether to share her past with Moria, but when she does she realizes not everyone is going to let her down, like in the past.

This is a wonderful holiday tale. It is heartwarming and the spirit of Christmas is woven throughout its pages. The true meaning of the season is given without being overwhelming. Melody creates another hit with story of hope, renewal and love. Melody Carlson is an excellent story teller share the gospel without it being overpowering or a distraction. It is woven in with care and the true Spirit of God is on every page.

Radical by David Platt

I am reading this book for a book discussion group for our ladies group at church.  They normally do a bible study, but this summer they decided to tackle to books for discussion.  At the moment I am behind in what I need to read.  I think I am afraid of what God is going to show me through the pages of this book.  I am going to break down my review by chapters and what I learned from it.

Someone Worth Losing Everything For.  Strong statement to make isn't it.  Am I willing to put my life and well being on the line for God.  Would I meet in secret just so I could learn about God?  Here in American a Christian can worship in whatever way they want.  As I read this chapter it hit me that meeting in secret could happen here and if it did how would it affect me.  I would like to believe that I would do whatever it took to follow Christ, but would I?  I am hoping that as I continue on this journey I will become positive of what I would do.


When I started reading this book I am not really sure what my expectations were, but I never expected to I feel like my salvation wasn't real, and frankly I almost gave up.  But the Holy Spirit showed me what the author was trying to say.  It isn't just a matter of accepting God's gift of salvation, it is surrendering our entire being to seeking God.  To enveloping ourselves with striving after God's truth.  An overwhelming concept.

If you are not ready to be challenged and are safe and secure in the way your life and relationship with Christ is than don't pick up this book.  Radical is a great title because during the reading of this book you will be challenged to make a change in your life.  I see that I need to make some changes and God is challenging me to reach out to those around me more.  Not a book to take lightly.

Jasmine and Fire: A Bittersweet Year in Beirut by Salma Abdelnour

I don't normally read this type of book, but it sounded interesting.

Salma is a freelance writer who spent her early childhood in Beirut. Her family left Beirut because of the unstable political situation. Her parents wound up in Houston where Salma spent the remainder of her childhood and teen years. During that time she had an overwhelming sense of not belonging. Salma always wanted to go back and after spending several years in New York, made up her mind to take the plunge and live in Beirut for a year. Being a freelance writer it would be easy to work from her homeland.

The decision made she beings to prepare for her trip. Living arrangements are easy since her parents have kept there apartment all these years. Upon her arrival Salma begins to refamiliarize herself with her old neighbor hood.

I really enjoyed the poignant journey that Salma takes. Her struggles to fit in and to find the place that she can call home.

If Errands Could Kill (Minivan Mom Mystery #1) by Jim Bronyaur

Eve Bailey is a typical stay at home mom. She runs errands, cleans the house, does laundry and prepares meals for her husband and three kids. She goes about her business pretty content with her life. She is at the bank check on why a check might have bounced, when she notices one of the employees acting strange. Eve doesn't know Janet very well and is intrigued by her actions. For some reason Eve follows Janet as she leaves the bank. In fact she follows her out of the parking lot when she sees Janet open the door to her gas tank and then drive off.

Eve had no idea that she was about to witness a murder. The police have their theory, but Eve doesn't buy it. Eve innocently set about to figure out why Janet was killed and to make sure she isn't next.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was engaging and the characters were well developed. I liked the antagonism between Charlotte the town gossip and the other characters. It will be interesting to see what other situations Eve will get herself into if there are future books.

A Slice of Life by Margaret Lake

Coulter's restaurant has been apart of Grace's live since she was born. Her parents opened the place not to long before Grace was born. As long as she can remember Grace has been shy around people. She would do whatever she could so that people wouldn't notice her. She is now thirty-seven-years-old. The family restaurant is struggling and Grace thinks that a cookbook might revitalize the family business along with the other businesses in the area. Her idea is for a cookbook with submitted recipes including a bio of the person contributing.

Grace never dreamed that taking that first bus ride, going out of her comfort zone, would changer her live forever.

I loved, loved, loved this story. It is tender and sweet and made me cry. The story flows along taking you along for the ride. It wraps you in its pages so that you become invested in the characters. Beautifully written. I got this free and had no great expectations for it, but what a pleasant surprise.

The Last Word (A Books by the Bay Mystery #3) by Ellery Adams

Love this series, and there is a fourth one in the works. Yeah!!

Olivia is a busy lady these days. She is building a relationship with her half-brother and his family. Olivia is nervous about the upcoming birth of the new addition to the family. She is also rushing to make sure that the opening for her new restaurant will go off without a hitch. All of this while also trying to get her next chapter ready for the Bay Side Writers and figure out how she feels about Chief Rawlings. So there is no surprise that the arrival of Nick Plumley, Booker Prize winning author, arrival in Oyster Bay doesn't really get her too excited.

Nick Plumley seems overly interested in the house that Harris just bought, and when a secret hiding place reveals a painting by Heinrich Kamler. Olivia suspects that Nick somehow knew that there was something hidden in the house. Nick was well known because of the book he wrote about th former prisoner of war camp that was in New Bern. Heinrich Kamler was at the camp and was able to make some money with his paintings.

Olivia goes to show Nick the painting to get his reaction, but finds him dead on the floor of his rented house. Olivia and the Bay Side Writers group get involved with helping the Chief figure out who the guilty person is. If Olivia could see the future she might not have been so willing to help find the murderer.

A great third installment in the Books by the Bay mystery series. I am looking forward to the next installment with great expectation.

Get Fluffy (Pampered Pets Mystery #2) by Sparkle Abbey

This is the 2nd installment in the Pampered Pets series. I was surprised as I started reading that the main character was different in this book than the first. In the first the main person was Caro a pet therapist. In this book the main person is Melanie, Caro's cousin. Melanie have a running feud about a brooch. They keep stealing it from one another.

This book opens up where the last book ended at the Fur Ball. She is accosted at the ball by Tova who accuses Melanie of having fleas at her shop, The Bow Wow Boutique. While they are having there discussion. Mona, the self pronounced bell of the ball decided to get involved. Mona is not very likeable and does whatever she please regardless of how it will affect others. Fluffy is Mona's diva dog.

Several days after the ball Fluffy winds up at Mel's shop. After several unanswered calls to Mona, Melanie decides to drop fluffy off. When she arrives she follows Fluffy into the house only to discover that Mona is dead, struck by Fluffy's Emmy. What follows is Melanie's attempt to steer the police to another suspect, when they begin to focus on her best friend Darby. Melanie ignores police warnings and does her best to figure out who killed Mona.

I enjoyed this installment of the Pampered Pet series just as much as the first. The switch of sleuths threw me, but since Caro was still a character in the story. I love the underlying theme of the brooch. Great story!

Magnolia (Bellamy's Blossoms #1) by Ginny Aiken

Magnolia Bellamy is in charge of the restoration of the Ashworth mansion. She has worked her way up in the bank, even though she feels like no one really takes her seriously. Even her sisters treat her like she isn't able to handle the responsibility of her job. It was her responsibility to find the right contractor. Her choice was Clay Marlowe, a Yankee. She went with clay because of his track record for doing good work and for the references he gave, but part of her has a hard time believing that he isn't up to no good. When vandalism begins to occur after the mansion is locked up for the night, Magnolia automatically thinks that somehow Clay is behind it.

Magnolia and her dog Bufford start staking out the mansion, but nothing happens when they are there. But yet when Clay does his inspection there is always some kind of damage. Clay was accused of a crime he didn't commit when he was in college and went to prison, he was eventually cleared of the crime. The fear of going back to prison haunts him and no matter how much he prays about it he can't shake the feeling that Magnolia is behind the vandalism. Which doesn't help with the fact that he is started to fall in love with her.

As Clay struggles with her faith, Magnolia struggles with her lack of faith. She is seeking something that Clay knows only God can provide. Will he be able to show Magnolia that God loves her? Will they find out who is behind the damage?

I have read several mysteries by this author and took a chance at reading this book. It is part of a trilogy. It started out slow, but it finally grabbed my attention. I like Ginny Aikens style. The spiritual aspect is handled with care. Showing how normal people struggle with fear and their pasts and dealing with family dynamics. This story has some very good biblical principals and I was glad I kept going. I look forward to reading the other two books in the series which concentrate on Lark and Cammie, Magnolia's sisters.

Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back by Todd Burpo

On a family trip the Burpo's youngest child, Colton, is taken seriously ill. The doctors finally discover that his appendix had ruptured and was leaking poison into his tiny little body. Todd and Sonja cried out to God to save their son. God hears their prayers and the doctors are able to save his life. After Colton is home and recovered, he begins to talk about heaven and the angels that sang to him in the hospital. He shares things he couldn't have possibly know. Over a period of time Todd and Sonja question Colton about his experience and realize that what Colton knows could only come from actually be in heaven.

Heaven is for Real is the story of the Burpo family. How they almost lost their son, and how Colton gave their family a new insite into what heaven is really like and a hope that we will see those who have gone before us.

I was skeptical about reading this, not quite sure why. I know I have wondered what heaven will be like. Knowing that heaven exits helps me to deal with the loss of family members who know the Lord. I like the scriptural backup to some of the points that Colton shared with his family.

I am very glad I took the time to check out this book.

Watch Your Words

As you might have read before I get a devotional during the week.  I had let them pile up recently and decided to put them in my OneNote notebook and read them later.  Well I finally read one of them a short time ago.  It was called "Did I Really Say That?".  It was from Wendy Blight. 

It was talking about how we say things.  The example she gave was interesting.  She had just spent time cleaning her kitchen.  After finishing and look at the nice clean area her husband came home for lunch to make one of his famous sandwiches, which would mean that every thing would be a mess again.  She gave directions as he was making his lunch.  As she was listening to the words coming out of her mouth and her husbands reaction to them, God kind of gave her one of those thunk in the head kind of moments.  What the heck did I just say?!?

I can kind of relate.  I take great pleasure in keeping a clean house for my husband.  It is the least I can do.  But with three cats it never fails that as soon as I get something cleaned up, rugs vacuumed and cat puke cleaned up, that one of them makes another mess for me to clean up.  I can get mad and fuss and spout angry words, but what good does it do me.  They can't help it and if I do it to them, how do I react when something else gets messed up after I think I have it all under control. 

Wendy gave some scriptures of what are words should be like:

Edifying:

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

Gentle:

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

Self-controlled:

"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control." Proverbs 29:11 (NIV 1984)

Compassionate:

"Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32 (NLT)

Really made me think about how I need to be careful about my words with even the cats, because there could be someone outside in the hall that would hear me and not know that I am yelling at a cat and think that is the way I am with people.

Interesting how cat could use cat puke as an object lesson.  I really value Proverbs 31 ministries.  They have so many wonderful women of God who share lesson they have learned which help me to become a better person.

Olga: A Daughter's Tale by Marie-Therese Browne

Olga was very happy as a child growing up in Jamaica. Her mother emigrated there after a visit with her sister. Becky fell in love and decided to stay. It wasn't an easy life but it was fulfilling. This is the story of Olga, on of Becky's 11 children. Olga loved her family very much and it was difficult for her to head off to London to go to school. Olga never dreamed that she would never set foot in her homeland again.

Olga story is told through the diaries of her Aunt Lucy, her mother Becky and her own. Marie, Olga's daughter, finds her mother's family with an ad in the local Jamaican paper. She discovers that her mother is a women of strength and courage. A woman who gave up her family because of circumstances beyond her control.

This is a touching story.

A Steal of a Deal (Shop-Til-U-Drop #2) by Ginny Aiken

Andie, Max, Miss Mona and Aunt Weeby are off on another adventure in the second installment of the Shop-til-U-Drop mystery series.

What starts out as a missions trip to Kashmir to help at an orphanage, turns into a trip to see the famous Sapphire mines. Things turn deadly when the houseboy is found murdered soon after they arrive. After the filming of the mines another tragedy strikes. They arrive back home safely, only to become victims of several deadly attacks. What do they want? Andie is trying to figure that out before someone close to her winds up dead.

I liked this story, but not as well as the first. Being a mystery you know something is going to happen, but it seemed kind of predictable. The love interest with Max is more developed and it is no surprise how the book ends, again kind of predictable. That being said it was a good story and was consistent with the first. I believe there is one more in the series. I want to read it, hoping that it isn't quite so predictable as this one was.

Decorating Schemes (Deadly Decor Mystery #2) by Ginny Aiken

Haley Ferrell has just been offered a job to redecorate a home for a prominent plastic surgeon. Dutch Merrill has also been hired. She arrives to take a look at the house and as Mrs. Marshall is showing her what she wants done they come a cross a body of a young girl in a pool of blood on the patio. Dutch shows up just then and calls the police.

Lila Tzu seems to be narrowing her focus onto Dutch because he has a previous relationship with the victims parents. In fact she turns out to be his Goddaughter. As the noose begins to tighten around Dutch he pleads with Haley for her help. So she is off and running again to find out why KC was killed and by whom. Along the way her new client's mom turns up in her father's life. In fact he just announced that he is planning on marrying her.

This is a great series and I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment in the Deadly Decor Mystery series. The Christian focus is not overpowering and realistic. Ginny Aiken has brought the characters to life and the struggles the characters have in seeking help in prayer don't seem put there just to satisfy the Christian focus.

A fun easy read!!

Courageous by Randy Alcorn

This is an amazing book. Now I can watch the movie! This story was well written and moved smoothly.

As law enforcement officers Adam Mitchell, Nathan Hayes and their partners face the worst situations you could imagine. They also face a more difficult challenge at home. All of them face the challenges of fatherhood. Adam feels he is doing an OK job at being a husband and father. Sure there have been a few bumps in the road. Victoria wants him to connect better with their son Dylan, but is seems like work for Adam because they have nothing in common. Emily, their daughter, is easier to cope with. Nathan and his wife Kayla are beginning to struggle with how to handle their teenage daughter. Dave, Nathan's partner, has a daughter he has never seen. Shane, Adam's partner, struggles to keep the relationship with his son going, when he doesn't get to see him very often.

When a family tragedy strikes Adam's family he begins to search the bible for ways to cope with his emotions and with how he can be a better husband and father. He is challenged at every turn with being a better man, to provide and protect his family. Adam decides to write a resolution that will help guide him to becoming the man, father, and husband that God wants him to be. His fellow officers join him in this resolution.

This in one of those books where you should have tissues at hand because it will touch your heart. It makes you think about the challenges parents face in this day and age and that being a Christian brings a whole new meaning to those challenges. It is thought provoking. As a women I realized how much more I appreciate the fact that my husband wants to be the spiritual leader in our family. It is a important job.

This book is so worth the read.

Silence

I might have mentioned that I get devotional emails from Proverbs 31 during the week (sorry for repeating myself).  Today it was about silencing our souls.  I thought it was an odd title until I started reading.  The key verse was Psalm 131:2a which says, "But I have calmed and quieted my soul." (ESV).  The person writing the devotional mentioned how when she was a child the teachers would comment that if she wouldn't talk so much she would learn more.  I used to get the comment she disturbs her neighbors because I would talk to them when I was finished with my work.  The author also mentioned who she talks to much to God, pointing out how she thinks he should answer her prayers. 

I have the problem that I can't focus when I pray.  My heart and head get so full of stuff that I lose track of what I am saying and get distracted by thoughts and external forces (cats).  I want to be able to silence my soul before God.  I want to be open to what He has to say to me.  Of late I find my mind going every which way with no focus.  There are so many things I want to accomplish and things that I want to do.  People I want to get to know better.  My heart yearns for quiet and commotion all at the same time.

Right now I am struggling with a heart full of fear and anger.  I got a call from my sister (the last remaining of my immediate family).  She is in the hospital.  She had surgery removing her gallbladder and something with her colon,  My sister is not the most concise person so details are kind of iffy.  She mentioned she will have to have more surgery.  I love her, she is my sister, but we don't know each other very well because she left home when I was between 5-6 and our family didn't get to see her much.  She handles her life so differently than I do and it frustrates me to no end.  My fear is that something will happen and she won't survive whatever is going on (she is 65).  My anger is because her stupid husband is probably the cause of the infection that caused her current issues.  He has mental problem (schizophrenia) and was taking meat out of the freezer and putting it in a cooler on the porch.  They live in Georgia so that isn't exactly a smart move.  He didn't put the meat back as fast as he should have and my sister contracted E coli.  They had a hard time getting it under control and she was still suffering after affects from that when this other infection started.  So my anger is aimed at him and at her for putting up with the jerk. 

I am praying about my feelings and getting overwhelmed with everything that is going through my head.  There are also changes coming up in the next month or so that I am trying not to deal with.  My neighbors are moving.  Big deal right!  Well it is!  I have become very close to them and will miss them a lot.  My heart is thinking GREAT ANOTHER LOSS.  So this thing with my sister is making everything else so out of proportion.  Our weekly Grow Group / Bible Study is over for the summer and  am having a hard time with that too!  Part of me is afraid that the leaders might decide to give up the group next year.  Why?  I have no idea. why I would think that, but there it is in my head.  Sometimes I wish I could just give myself a stern talking to, but I probably wouldn't listen anyway. 

So silencing my soul right now would be a good thing.  A suggestion was made at the end of the devotional to spend five minutes in silence with God for five days. Beginning by repeating the verse in Psalms I mentioned above.   I am going to give it a try.  It sure can't hurt anything.

Unlikely

Is there something in your past that you feel is too far a stretch for God to use? Do you possess a quality that the world would look at and say, "Nope, not you?" Have you ever felt completely unqualified, but still dream of doing impossible things?

These were some questions in the devotional that I got a day or to ago.  This really hit me, because I feel like I am not the right person to do many things.  I don't feel that my faith is strong enough.  There are things in my past that will keep me from doing certain things.  I am a broken individual what use am I.  These are thought that circulate in my heart and head.  God has been showing me many things lately.  I feel like my faith is the size of a mustard seed.  But that doesn't get me off the hook.

He replied, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. ”  Matthew 17:19-21

I am trying new things and trying to follow God's leading even when I feel like I am not worthy or have what it takes to do what I feel led to do.  He is an Awesome God!  I see him working all around me. 

It is exciting to see what God is doing.

Gabby... All About Me by Lee Carey

Scooter had no idea what he was getting into the day he walked into the SPCA to adopt a dog. When he walked in the door the lady at the desk greeted him and escorted him to see the dogs that were available for adoption. She left him alone to make his choice and that is when something very strange happened. He heard a voice from somewhere in the room. There was no one else in the room with him, so where was it coming from. He realized (with some help) that it was coming from one of the dogs. One of the dogs was talking to him.

Scooter took Gabby home and that one act changed his life forever.

This was a wonderful story. I have to admit it was kind of hokey, but I really enjoyed it. I don't know how many times that I wished I could understand my cats. It was a great premise for a story.

Mentalpause.... and Other Midlife Laughs by Laura Jensen Walker

This is a laugh out loud book. As a girl growing up menopause was something whispered about in our family. No one really talked about it. I knew what it was, but no one really wants to talk about it or admit that it is something that they are going through. I loved Laura's way of sharing information in a very humorous way. It was informative and hilarious.

I have read one other book fiction book by this author. I am normally not a non-fiction type person unless it is a story about animals. But I just couldn't resist this title.

Clobbered by Camembert (Cheese Shop Mystery #3) by Avery Aames

Charlotte Bessette runs the Fromagerie Bessette cheese shop, she also has a tendency to get involved in solving mysteries. This is the third installment in the Cheese Shop Mystery series.

The Cheese Shop is busy setting up for the town's Winter Wonderland faire. Many of the businesses in town will have a tent where they will set up the wares. An old friend of Charlotte's mother is back in town. Kaitlyn Clydesdale is back to open a new honeybee farm. Tagging along with Kaitlyn is Chip, former fiance of Charlotte. Just what she needs.

When Kaitlyn is found dead in Rebecca's cottage, Charlotte steps in to help Chief Urso solve the case. Rebecca, an employee of the cheese shop, asks Charlotte to help her find out who killed Kaitlyn. Chief Urso seems to be looking at Rebecca's boyfriend as the lead suspect.

**** SPOILER ALERT ****

Also Charlotte finds out more about Jordan's past. It felt kind of hinky to me, so I am curious to see where that goes. Right at the end Chief Urso decides to finally tell Charlotte how he feels. But that isn't the most interesting cliff hanger. Jordan proposes.

Another installment is in the works. Can't wait!!! Love this series!!

Welcome Home by Billi Tiner

Jake has been dreaming.about his forever home since he was born. He knows his owners voice by memory. When he winds up with an abusive man he feels all hope.is lost. One day a fallen limb provides an escape.

What follows his his journey to find the man that belongs to the voice in his dreams.

I was leery at first, thinking this would be another tear jerker. I did shed a few tears but they were happy ones. Great story. Kind of like the incredible journey.

Kiki Lowenstein Short Stories by Joanna Campbell Slan

This was a great group of five separate short stories that feature Kiki Lowenstein who works at Time In A Bottle (A Scrapbook supply store).  These short stories are part of the Scrap-n-Craft mystery series.  They were very well written and I enjoyed all of them.  I am anxious to see what the full length novels will be like. 

Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

Jacob was very close to his grandfather. He would listen to the stories he told and believed every word. Then he started to grow up, those stories began to sound so far fetched he didn't believe they were true. When his grandfather died Jacob saw something he couldn't explain. It couldn't possibly have been real. He started having nightmares and became withdrawn. His parents took him to see a psychiatrist to try and help him cope with everything. Jacob found some clues to what his grandfather tried to tell him with his last breath, prompting him to want to go to the island where his grandfather lived as a child. With doctor's approval Jacob and his father where off for the adventure of a lifetime.

When I started reading this I wasn't very sure if I would like it, but I continued on. And I am glad that I did. It was still kind of an odd story, but it intrigued me. The photos interspersed within its pages were wonderful. It helped you picture the characters and made the story come to life.

I am very glad that I persevered and continued reading.

Rebekah Redeemed by Dianne G. Sagan

Rebekah finds her self in a place she never imagined. Her father was killed by a lion when he was protection the sheep. One of the other shepherds takes her to her only known relative. Her parents weren't in touch with her mother's family because she chose to marry her father. Her uncle Benjamin took her in but a servant and her Aunt Mara would beat her and treat her like garbage. She was sold to Jacob after Benjamin was killed. Jacob was also her Uncle. His wife sent her away to live with her son because she found out who Rebekah was and didn't want her husband to figure it out.

Rebekah thought all was lost until Lazarus and his sisters took her in and paid the redemption price. She met Jesus and realized that she had value beyond the redemption price that she was loved and special.

I loved this picture of redemption and the value that Jesus sees in us.

An Angel with Fur by Russell Blake

If you are an animal lover you will like this book.  Kind of hard to read when you see what this poor dog had to deal with (not to mention the owner).  But it brings to mind what pet owners will do for those furry critters.  Another one where you should keep tissues handy.  Great photos are distributed throughout the story. 

The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances by Andy Andrews

Andy never dreamed what was in store for him when he started asking questions about some items he dug up in his own back yard.

While doing some yard work in his back yard Andy discovered an old can that contained three photographs, some buttons, a ring and a couple of medals. As he began doing some research he discovered that there were U-Boats that were running along the Gulf Coast during the war. In fact he discovered that the ran not very far away from where he was living. He began asking questions of those older folks who happened to be living in the area back than. He was overwhelmed with the information on the internet. As Andy talks with a particular older couple he discovers that they are harboring a secret. The secret of how those items became buried in the first place.

What follows is the story of Helen and Josef. How they met and how they manged to survive and find forgiveness and be able to love again.

This is a beautifully written story. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It grabbed my attention and didn't let go until I turned the final page.

Sasha, Extraordinary Dachshund by CJ Adams

This is the story of Sasha, a sweet little Dachshund, and her family CJ and Mel Adams. I love animals, and have and a pet in my home since I was 2. Those early years it was dogs, now we have cats. I still tear up when I think of our first dog. It is amazing how these furry critters take over your heart and can bring so much joy. It also amazes me how much their absence can cause so much grief.

This is a great book. Make sure you have some tissues ready when you get toward the end. It made me cry, probably more than normal because 2 years ago I had to put my cat Smokey to sleep. It was a hard decision to make. It was made during a difficult time, my sister was ill, and there was alot of stress in the house. So not sure if it was the right decision, but one I have to live with. Anyway, this is a great tribute to a loving pet.

The only complaint I had was the use of the b word. I know it is an accurate term, but I don't think it was necessary. Thankfully it was only a few times, or it would have really turned me off.

Grief

I have started attending a class on grief provided by our church.  I have only been to one class, but what an emotional one it was.  It is hard to deal with grief, especially when you have others that come and go in your life that question why you are still dealing with it.  I have come to realize that those people that say things like "Get over it already" or "You should be feeling better by now": either haven't suffered the loss of a loved one or haven't dealt with it themselves and we are a reflection of what they are feeling and they don't want to deal with it.

I have dealt with alot of loss.  My dad died in 87 and there was alot of unresolved feelings on my part that I had to try and cope with it.  In 2000 my mom died.  Her loss crippled my sister to the point that I had to move back home to live with her.  Her lack of being able to cope didn't allow me to grieve because I was always taking care of her.  I was close to my sister and sometimes this put stress on our relationship.  Most recently, July 4th of 2010, my sister died.  I was devastated.  She was living with us at the time and Dean and I had no clue that she was as sick as she was.  She had cancer that had spread and she didn't even show any symptoms until a few weeks before we found out.  Well I take that back she complained of gas pains that wouldn't go away, but that was nothing new for her.  So her loss was very overwhelming for me.  I still ache for the emptiness that she left behind.  I have another sister, but we are not close.  When I try and talk to her about Dee she starts saying mean things about her and it makes me angry so we don't talk about it at all.

I am hoping this class will give me the tools I will need to cope with the losses I have already have, and help me cope alot better with the ones that will be coming.  

A Change of Heart by Nancy Frederick

Annabeth is not in a good place in her life. She has just found out that her husband doesn't want to be with her anymore. He has been acting odd lately, not himself. Annabeth figured that something might be wrong with the business, she never dreamed that he wanted to end the marriage. What will she do, what kind of job is she qualified for. She doesn't realize that her painting could lead to something great, because no one ever told her it was worth something. Annabeth is on a journey of discovery where she will have a change of heart.

I only gave this two stars. It started out pretty good until I hit about halfway. All of a sudden this well developed character start having indiscriminate sex with a stranger and a married man, especially when she had recently discovered that RJ was not faithful to her. I am not a fan of sex scenes in books especially long drawn out ones. One reason I don't read romance novels. I could have dealt with it if it hadn't seemed like such a cheap way to develop the story. Take out the sex stuff and it was a well written story. I like the way Annabeth came into her own and stood on her own two feet and met the man of her dreams.

It was sort of a disappointment. glad that I didn't pay good money for it.

Feeling Trapped

From Proverbs 31 Ministries

Feeling Trapped by Glynnis Whitwer

“Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.” Psalm 107:13 (NIV)

Feeling trapped, with no way out, is a horrible place to be. I know. I’ve been there several times in the past few years.

When the housing market crashed in my hometown, our family-owned consulting firm almost crashed along with it. Contracts were canceled, potential jobs shriveled, credit maxed and investments bombed. Most of the trouble was out of our control, but some was from our unwise decisions.

One month dragged into another. Some weeks we barely squeaked by. I didn’t lose my faith in God’s provision, as He took care of our basic needs. But His timing to pull us out of the depths of our trouble was not mine. I cried out for a quick fix; He had another plan.

Before help came, God let us sit in the mess for a long time. In fact, we had to sit in a place of helplessness for longer than we wanted. All of our previous abilities to help ourselves were gone. Places that had previously been willing to extend a helping hand weren’t able to help. At times it felt like we had been abandoned. Was it because of something we had done? Maybe our unwise choices? Questions abounded.

But then God stepped in. And because we’d been sitting in that mess so long, our gratitude doubled. We clearly saw His hand at work. In hindsight, if we’d been able to help ourselves, we would have patted ourselves on the backs at our cleverness. Now, God gets all the glory.

You may be trapped right now and wondering if God will rescue you. Maybe you’ve made bad choices. Perhaps you have disqualified yourself from being saved. If that’s you, then I’ve got good news. No matter if your situation is of your own making or someone else’s, God cares and has a plan to save you.

Psalm 107 sings this truth. In this amazing passage we learn of God’s faithfulness to people in all kinds of difficult places: deserts, darkness and the foolishness of their deeds. Yet no matter where they were or what they had done, when they cried to God, He heard them. And He hears us today.

This Psalm isn’t just literature. It’s a message from the faithful of old, to the faithful of today. It was captured in writing so that when we feel lost, trapped, overwhelmed and afraid, we would read it and believe … believe that the God who brought deliverance then, will do so today.

Here’s just a portion of that scripture. When you have time, please read the entire passage. Psalm 107:10-13 (NIV):

Some sat in darkness, in utter darkness, prisoners suffering in iron chains, because they rebelled against God’s commands and despised the plans of the Most High. So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.

God specializes in rescuing the trapped – no matter how they got there. He did it for me and He will do it for you.

Dear Lord, You alone know the fullness of my desperate situation. You know how trapped I feel right now. I haven’t done everything perfectly, and I confess my rebellious ways. Lord, You said if we called out to You in our distress, You would answer. So I’m calling out now. Please help. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

He is There

From a Proverbs 31 devotional

Jesus is there waiting for us to come to Him.

He is there when we’re going through the motions, aware of what needs to be done, but unaware of how we’re going to do it.

He is there when we can’t stop criticizing ourselves for blowing it the day before; when we go to work and wonder why we’re even there.

He is there during endless days filled with diapers and laundry, wondering if we’ll ever find meaning in the monotony.

He is there when we come home to an empty house and wonder why we don’t have a family, or come home to a teenager who belittle us and a husband who ignores us.

Jesus sees our hearts and knows the pain of our loneliness, disappointment and rejection. Today He is pursuing us, inviting us to come to Him to receive the perfect love He offers — love that is patient and kind, love that keeps no record of wrongs, love that won’t give up on us.

Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, will you stop and talk to Him? And then, will you quiet your thoughts so you can listen to His?

Dear Lord, thank You for pursuing me. I want to know and rely on the love You have for me, and live in the security of it! When I feel afraid, insignificant or alone today, help me turn to You and remember You are there! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Stir It Up

I subscribe to Proverbs 31 Ministries on Facebook and I get a devotional sent to my email everyday.  This is one was by Marybeth Whalen.  She was talking about how if you don't stir up a cup of coffee after putting sugar in it it doesn't get mixed in and that all the ingredients of your faith can be there, but if things don't get stirred up you can get stuck and not grow to your full potential. 

I feel that God has really stirred me up since Dean and I have moved to Oregon and started attending church.  Our local body of believers is so wonderful.  I have learned so much from them and feel that God is really showing me where there are things that I need to change.  I started a Journal today for the upteenth millionth time.  But this time I think it will be different.  I am going to use it as letters/prayers to God.  I want to be able to look back and see what God has taught me.

Dear Lord, when I am feeling stirred up, help me to think of it as You working Your sweetness into me, as You preventing me from becoming stuck. I want to move forward with You and become what You have in mind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Kane and Abel (Kane and Abel #1) by Jeffrey Archer

Two men born on the same day. Very different experiences. One was brought up in a life of privilege in America the other was taken in by a poor family in Poland. Both were strong competitors, striving for something more. The paths of these men have crossed several times during their lifetimes. One began to hate the other. Would they be able to overcome this hatred before tragedy strikes.

I really enjoyed this book. I don't remember having read it before, but as I was reading I started to be able to tell what was going to happen next. Not like figuring out a mystery kind of way. But like when you reread something that you have already read and just don't remember what happens until you start to read it again.

I didn't mind that at all. Majority of it was fresh and even those parts that I remember clearly were just as fun to read. I really like this authors style. I know I have more of his books in my list of things I want to read.

Easter!

When I was young Easter meant a new dress, shoes and maybe a hat.  It also meant a basket with colorful grass and candy.  Usually a chocolate bunny, malted milk ball eggs and jelly beans (minus the black ones).  It meant going out to church where everyone was dressed so pretty.  We also used to go out to eat somewhere nice (probably a brunch).  Life seemed so simple back then.  Boy did miss the boat about what this holiday was really about. 

My Savior died on the cross and on this holiday we celebrate His resurrection.  He died for me!  He took my place.  I didn't deserve it my any means.  No one does!  He loved me so much that He put his life on the line so that I could have a brighter future in Him.  I will spend my eternity with Him in heaven.  What a wonderful legacy my parents gave me by taking me to church.

I know I am still not perfect, far from it.   God doesn't see my imperfections.  He has made me perfect, created in His image!  I am a new creation.  A beloved child of God!  When I think about what God has done for me by sending His son to die for my sins - I wonder how many people would lay down their lives for someone who doesn't deserve it.

Since we have been attending church (a great church!!) God has really been working on my heart and spirit.  He has been showing me things that I have known for a long time, but drastically needed reminding of.  He has made old things new and shown me things that I sort of knew - but now I understand more completely. 

I can't wait until tomorrow!  I am so looking forward to celebrating my Saviors resurrection with my church family.  He is Risen!!  Amen!!

The Drop (Harry Bosch Series #16) by Michael Connelly

Harry Bosch, a member of the Open Unsolved division, has just been handed a case. It is unusual because the DNA hit that came back on this particular case goes back to someone who would have been eight-years-old at the time. And if that isn't enough he is being asked to work an active case. The son of Councilman Irving was found dead, an apparent suicide. Bosch is asked to take the case to determine whether it was really suicide or murder.

Running both cases could prove to be a challenge for Bosch and his partner. Will these cases put Bosch over the edge causing him to retire.

I liked this installment in the Harry Bosch series. The two cases were kept separate and were easy to follow and it was well written as always.

Antiques Roadkill (A Trash 'n' Treasure Mystery #1) by Barbara Allan

Brandy heads home to live with mom after her divorce is final. Her mother needs someone to kind of keep an eye on her and make sure she is taking her medication. When she arrives home she finds out that a local antique dealer had swindled her mom out of many of her antiques, taking advantage of her during one of her spells.

Brandy confronts the man at a Red Hat Society event. Shortly after that confrontation the antique dealer winds up dead and Brandy's mom is a suspect. When things start hitting closer to home, Brandy is determined to help the police find out who also wants her dead.

I really liked this story. I love the narrative style and the little asides that the author gives from the characters perspective. I have the next one in the series already and look forward to reading the others in the series.

Fun read!

Remembering a dear Friend

I just found out today that someone I was close to passed away.  I haven't seen or heard from her in a long time.  We lost track of each other over the years.  We were in the singles group at our church and as a group spent may fun hours together being silly and just having a good time.  I am feeling at a loss because I don't know what happened to her.  All I know is that she is gone.  How does that happen?  I know it is impossible to keep track of everyone you have known.  That would be a job in and of itself.  And why do I feel the need to know why she is gone.  Will that make the outcome different?  Will it change what her family is going through?  No to both.  I guess I want to know so I can better understand how someone I knew who was about the same age, give or take alittle, is now not here anymore.  It bring a whole new perspective to your own mortality and what is important in life.

I have had this happen once before only on a slightly bigger scale.  Not very long after my 35th birthday I experienced another big reality check.  One of my co-workers that I was very close to, came home to find her husband had died.  He was 35.  Another dear friend of mine from church lost her husband during the night and he was also 35.  Kind of a scary realization that two people the same age as you are gone.  Hit me like a ton of bricks.  Made me due a bit of spiritual inventory.  I wanted to make sure that I didn't leave something unsaid.  I wanted to mend fences and make sure I was right in my walk with God and with my family and friends. 

My thoughts and prayers are with Dan, the kids and the rest of the extended family.  I pray that God will give you peace and that the pain of her absence will ease with time.  She was a beautiful child of God and will be sorely missed.

Note of Peril (A Hideaway Novel) by Hannah Alexander

An unusual gift arrived at the theater in Branson where Grace Brennan and Michael Gold are performing. The music box contains a sinister note. She tries to brush it off as a simple prank, but when more odd gifts show up and the director of the show winds up dead, she begins to wonder if she is going a little crazy.

So many things are happening around Grace that she begins to doubt what God's plan is for her, where He wants her to be.

This was a great read. I like the way the mystery unfolds and the characters are developed. I believe this is part of a series, but not quite sure where it fits. If it is part of a series it works great as a stand alone story.

I think I am going to check out some of the other novels by this author.