March 29, 2014

Digging in the Dirt


I love getting my hands dirty. I try to wear gardening gloves but rarely do they stay on for long. Spring and summer finds my nails cut short and inevitably I've got the remnant of dirt around my nails. Flowers, vegetables, herbs ... I love it all. It's not been every year that I've had the opportunity to garden and I don't claim to be good at it. We're in the States now (as opposed to living as missionaries overseas) and I long for a wonderful little vegetable garden of my own! I have a great, albeit small collection of gardening books and a pretty good sized wish list. Here's a few of these little wonders!














875613: A Gardner"s Little Devotional Book A Gardner's Little Devotional Book

By Freeman-Smith




5751: Growing Vegetable Soup Growing Vegetable Soup

By Lois Ehlert
How do vegetables get from seeds and dirt to delicious soup? Curious readers will thoroughly enjoy this fresh presentation of the gardening cycle. And there's even an easy and tasty soup recipe included! 40 pages, illustrated in color by the author, for preschoolers through grade 3. Hardcover from Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

Food for the Soul

Sometimes each of us just needs a dose of motivation to inspire us to be our best self. We need to discover our purpose in life, uncover our talents and live life to the fullest! Do you have your own Magnificent Why? Are you consumed with a passion that will leave a legacy? All I have to say here is:  if you DO know your 'why' then, Hooray!!  If you don't, then search it out and claim it.  Let's do some research. Let's explore ... Use Pathways to help you find your 'why' and start Living your passion today and tomorrow and that will make all you do truly wonderful.

We all are called to make a difference ... find yourself ... and do it with abandon!

448254: Do Something: Make Your Life Count - Unabridged Audiobook on CD Do Something: Make Your Life Count - Unabridged Audiobook on CD

By Miles McPherson



0-0-0

Be brave! Have faith! Follow Jesus with abandon and you just may be surprised where you'll end up and the amazing things you can be a part of!

28638: If You Want to Walk on Water, You"ve Got to Get Out of the Boat If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat

By John Ortberg

Far too many of us have put our faith in a casual Christianity that never compels us to leave our comfort zones. But, deep within our hearts we know that Christ has not called us to comfort, but to an exciting, sacrificial and overwhelmingly fulfilling faith. In If You're Going to Walk on Water John Ortberg teaches us how to step out of the "boat" of casual Christianity so that we can faithfully follow the Lord who is calling us out onto the risky, exciting waters of the high seas. Let Pastor Ortberg teach you how to leave your comfort zone for a remarkable life of faith.

F LaGard Smith is one of the moving writers of our time. His writings are always moving and inspiring. I love this little book - peace in a world of turmoil.
01890: Meeting God in Quiet Places: The Cotswold Parables Meeting God in Quiet Places: The Cotswold Parables

I've read the book below at least three times - each time I gain a new insight. I've put the prayer models to work as well and have have faith renewed time and time again.

46952: The Life You"ve Always Wanted, Expanded Edition The Life You've Always Wanted, Expanded Edition

By John Ortberg
The heart of Christianity is transformation---a relationship with God that impacts not just our "spiritual lives," but every aspect of living. John Ortberg calls you back to the dynamic heartbeat of Christianity---God's power to bring change and growth---and reveals both the how and why of transformation.


229216: The Noticer: Sometimes, All a Person Needs Is a Little Perspective The Noticer: Sometimes, All a Person Needs Is a Little Perspective

By Andy Andrews
From the best-selling author of The Traveler's Gift comes an absorbing story of boundless hope! Struggling against poverty, personal failures, and lost dreams, the residents of Orange Beach, Alabama, believe their lives are meaningless. But when an old drifter mysteriously makes his way through town, he brings new perspective---and spots the miracle they're missing! Based on a true story. 167 pages, hardcover from Nelson.
This is one of the very best little books of all times - really! If you're a fan of the old classic movie, It's a Wonderful Life then this book takes that message down into your soul. Tap into those special gifts that make you special and unique and use them to God's glory! You may be surprised what a difference you make in this ol' world!

73222: The Traveler"s Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success

By Andy Andrews
A unique blend of fiction, allegory, and inspiration, this book has motivated tens of thousands since its release in late 2002. Now this wildly successful parable is available in an affordable trade paper edition. This thought-provoking book encourages readers of all ages to reach their full potential using these simple keys to success.

30427X: The Young Traveler"s Gift The Young Traveler's Gift

By Andy Andrews
In his senior year of high school, Michael Holder hits rock bottom. Caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, he's suspended from the track team and loses his college scholarship. His coach is angry, his parents are disappointed, and he wonders if life is worth living. Will a once-in-a-lifetime journey of discovery stop Michael's downward spiral? 160 pages, softcover from Tommy Nelson.

I'm a huge fan of Norman Vincent Peale's writings. My Dad introduced me to him when I was a kid and I've been inspired by this little book many times. Believe in yourself! Have faith! It's a powerful thing - this little book is a golden nugget!

3480X: The Power of Positive Thinking, 50th Anniversary Edition The Power of Positive Thinking, 50th Anniversary Edition

By Norman Vincent Peale
The Power of Positive Thinking has helped millions of men and women to achieve fulfillment in their lives. In this phenomenal bestseller, Dr. Peale demonstrates the power of faith in action. With the practical techniques outlined in this book, you can energize your life - and give yourself the incentive needed to carry out your ambitions and hopes. You'll learn how to believe in yourself and in everything you do, develop the power to reach your goals, break the worry habit and achieve a relaxed life. Paperback.


 And so, now, my prayer for you is that you will be ... Blissfully, and Magnificently Obsessed.

Living With and Surving Grief

Our church family started a new ministry this year offering a wonderful program to people who were dealing with grief as the result of death of a loved one. It has been a very good and fulfilling experience to be involved with this ministry. I've learned so much and I realize sometimes folks don't realize there are many books out there that provide understanding, comfort and empathy when someone really needs it.
Personally, within the past 10 years I lost several of my own family in death and excellent writings helped me understand what I was going through. A part of those grieving times was the experience of two miscarriages. My heart was so heavy and sad. Here are a few of my favorite books and others that may help you or a someone you know in their own time of grieving.

0-0-0
06788X: Everyday Comfort: Meditations for Seasons of Grief, updated edition Everyday Comfort: Meditations for Seasons of Grief, updated edition

By Randy Becton
People who are mourning the loss of a dear friend or beloved family member often feel alone. And those who want to comfort them can feel inadequate and at a loss for words. In Everyday Comfort, grievers will find thirty daily devotions to help them through their heartache. Respecting the griever's anguish and emotional turmoil, these devotions avoid platitudes and offer genuine empathy and wisdom. Subjects like recovery, facing death, normal grief and abnormal grief, and using the psalms daily will help those who grieve examine the path through despair and take the next steps toward living life again.
0-0-0
430920: Experiencing Grief Experiencing Grief

By H. Norman Wright
Sooner or later, we all face a dark journey - the passage through grief. Written to encourage anybody who's recently endured a loss, this brief, powerful book leads readers through five essential stages: shock, rage, despair, release, and finally peace. A thoughtful gift in lieu of a sympathy card. Paperback.



 The following is a book about losing your Mom - no matter how old or young you may be, losing a Mother is one of life's saddest times. I miss my Mom every single day.
099068: With Her and Without Her With Her and Without Her

By Kimber Dailey


0-0-0
67599: It"s Okay to Cry: A Parent"s Guide to Helping Children Through the Losses of Life It's Okay to Cry: A Parent's Guide to Helping Children Through the Losses of Life

By H. Norman Wright
When a child experiences loss, whether it be small (a broken toy) or traumatic (death of a friend or family member), he or she needs to know: it's okay to cry. Here is practical advice and assurance borne of years of experience that will equip you to assist those you love to grieve and to heal.

Our family suffered when I had two miscarriages - they were experiences of heavy grief and sadness. I made a memory book for our babies and because I actually delivered Jonathan with the family around me, we got to hold him, get his little feet prints and do all the precious things as we said our good-byes. The loss of our Jordan was first and definitely more traumatic. I had good friends I could talk with who had gone through the same thing. That helped. It also helped to read several good books.

32608: I"ll Hold You in Heaven Remembrance Book I'll Hold You in Heaven Remembrance Book


0-0-0
227771: Grieving the Child I Never Knew: A Devotional Companion for Comfort in the Loss of Your Unborn or Newly Born Grieving the Child I Never Knew: A Devotional Companion for Comfort in the Loss of Your Unborn or Newly Born

By Kathe Wunnenberg
Grieving the Child I Never Knew offers comfort and the reassurance of God's presence as you grieve the loss of a child you never got to know. If you've lost a child through miscarriage, tubal pregancy, stillbirth, or early infant death, this devotional will encourage you along your healing journey. Each chapter includes a journaling exercise. Hardcover.

It's All About the Money

Well, not really ... life is so much more than money, however, it is wise to use a lot of sense with your dollars and cents. Did you know, the book of Proverbs is filled with God's admonitions on money? Yep, God gives absolute guidelines - read and learn! Also, there are some Christian financial wizards out there who have shared some great, do-able information.  Here we go with a few of my favorites. 
0-0-0
899009: The ABC"s of Financial Freedom The ABC's of Financial Freedom
By Barry L. Cameron
Is your money disappearing into the black hole of debt? Here's just what you need to plug the leak! Offering sound advice for debt-free living, Cameron challenges you to take a hard look at your Attitude toward spending, avoid the Bondage of debt, and make a Choice to follow God's plan for financial freedom. Paperback.
0-0-0
009120: The ABC"s of Financial Success Workbook with CD The ABC's of Financial Success Workbook with CD
0-0-0
124918: Conquering Debt God"s Way Conquering Debt God's Way
0-0-0
009445: Contagious Generosity: The Key to Continuous Blessing! Contagious Generosity: The Key to Continuous Blessing!
By Barry L. Cameron
"God loves a cheerful giver (II Cor. 9:7)." Not only of our monies, but time, talents and abilities. In "Contagious Generosity" Barry L. Cameron shows how a lifestyle of generosity is a normal and blessing-filled way to live the Christian life. By giving generously you can become an agent of God's blessing to others.
0-0-0
We were a part of a No Debt No Sweat seminar several years back. Steve Diggs has some great information to share and a terrific workbook to help implement his strategies. 

0-0-0
89089: The Total Money Makeover, Revised and Updated The Total Money Makeover, Revised and Updated
By Dave Ramsey
A must-have guidebook for any family wanting to stay financially fit. The success stories speak for themselves and you'll be one of them with an approach that works every time.


702334: Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity
By Adam Hamilton

Enough is an invitation to rediscover the Bible's wisdom when it comes to prudent financial practices. In these pages are found the keys to experiencing contentment, overcoming fear, and discovering joy through simplicity and generosity. This book could change your life, by changing your relationship with money.

Making money from home is an absolute goal of mine. I've read Donna's books and kept up with her success for several years now - she makes good sense!
976085: Making Money from Home: How to Run a Successful Home-Based Business Making Money from Home: How to Run a Successful Home-Based Business
By Donna Partow
 Starting your own business takes courage, maintaining it takes hard work, good council and advice. With Donna's help, you can run a successful home-based business. It's not only possible, it's profitable too!
I've taken a number of video classes and have 'followed' Carrie for almost ten years. Her story and advice is wonderful.
553691: The Barefoot Executive: The Ultimate Guide for Being Your Own Boss and Achieving Financial Freedom The Barefoot Executive: The Ultimate Guide for Being Your Own Boss and Achieving Financial Freedom
By Carrie Wilkerson
Carrie helps you create new streams of income. Discover how to find a target market, develop a brand, establish credibility, maximize technology, avoid common pitfalls, and more.

We'll will be retiring in a few short years ... OR maybe not! We're having to make some lifestyle decisions and good books are a great source of wisdom and knowledge.
446530: The Shortest Book Ever on Saving for Retirement: How to Make Every Dollar Count in Any Financial Climate The Shortest Book Ever on Saving for Retirement: How to Make Every Dollar Count in Any Financial Climate
By James O'Donnell
If you're looking to invest for your retirement but you just don't know where to begin or what goals to set for yourself, The Shortest Book Ever on Saving for Retirement is for just you. This refreshed and updated version includes information to better reflect the brave, new economic world we find ourselves in today.

028042: Spiritual Wisdom for Successful Retirement: Living Forward Spiritual Wisdom for Successful Retirement: Living Forward
By C.W. Brister, PhD.
Spiritual Wisdom for Successful Retirement anticipates the changing events and transitions of retirement, focusing on the need to adapt to this "work in progress."  This powerful book presents real-life stories of people striving to remain engaged in life, open to possibilities, and experiencing intimations of eternity-here and now.
46353: Money Matters for Kids, New Edition Money Matters for Kids, New Edition
By Larry Burkett with K. Christie Bowler
In Money Matters for Kids, financial author and teacher Larry Burkett provides fun and creative tools to help children understand and apply the biblical concept of stewardship. Includes jokes, puzzles, and other fun activities and exercises that make it easy for parents to teach children godly money management principles.

The Home-school co-op our son was a  part of used the following to teach finances to the students. Great Class!
564101: Foundations in Personal Finance Home School Kit  Foundations in Personal Finance Home School Kit
By Dave Ramsey / The Lampo Group, Inc.
A biblical approach to personal finance that teaches high school students about saving, investing, credit, debt, money management, and much more.
The Student Workbook is sold separately for those needing additional copies.

077631: Smart Money, Smart Kids: Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money Smart Money, Smart Kids: Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money
By Dave Ramsey & Rachel Cruze / Nelson Books
Dave Ramsey and his daughter Rachel Cruze teach parents how to raise money-smart kids in a debt-filled world in their brand new book, Smart Money Smart Kids.

441882: Learning to Live Financially Free Learning to Live Financially Free
By Marybeth Whalen & Curt Whalen
Is it time for you to take a personal look at what it takes to live debt free? In this timely new book based on their own financial challenges, Marybeth Whalen and Curt Whalen offer hard-earned wisdom and hope to families who struggle with debt and the consequences of financial mistakes.
So, like I said, these are several suggestions of great books - a few that my family has made a part of our home library. Take a look, read the reviews and see which may right for you. If you're like us, we like a little of this and a little of that and implement what serves us best.
Blessings to you and yours as you seek to find your own financial wholeness.



March 26, 2014

A 'Must-Have' for Every Family

I love my heritage! I come from a family whose backbone is Christianity and I am so proud of those who stood tall and proud to be called children in this heavenly kingdom. The home I grew up in was filled with books - books you could get lost in for hours. Many of those books were 'Bible themed books'. One of the last gifts from my parents to our family was one of those kind of books - I rediscovered it on our living book shelf the other day. I am enthralled, entranced, captivated by this book. Every home needs a copy.