Author:  Kay Arthur

Published: 2011

Stars:  5 out of 5

Overview

“What can you do when life doesn’t turn out like you planned?”

You can be defeated by life’s unavoidable disappointments, or you can become stronger because of them.

Life’s disappointments can send you on a dangerous downward spiral into discouragement, depression, or even despair. But in this eye-opening book, Kay Arthur guides you to biblical truths that will help you break that cycle and instead embrace disappointment as the cleansing fire God uses to make you—as silver refined—a reflection of His goodness.

Known for her inductive Bible-study resources, Kay Arthur writes a brilliant book about responding to the ups and downs of life.  She builds upon Dr. Joseph Carroll’s  “5 Deadly D’s” – disappointment, discouragement, dejection, despair, and demoralization by adding “distraction” and “deception.”  Acknowledging the difficulties of life and the realities of the spiritual war, the reader is advised to KNOW the enemy who battles not only for your soul, but your spirit of life.  She touches on principles of warfare, and reminds us that God has the power to train us through life’s battles, and does not leave us simply to suffer defeat at the hands of our enemy.

Not shying away from past mistakes and regrets, the reality of stress and pressure we all face, or the pain of life, Arthur reminds us that GOD can transform us despite our circumstances, that He is with us and offers the strength and courage we need to walk in victory in this life.

My Review

Honestly, if you only buy ONE book this year – I recommend THIS ONE!!!  Anyone who has ever dealt with disappointment or discouragement in life can benefit from the truth that is consistently highlighted in this book.  Kay Arthur’s passion for the Word of God provides the foundation for her call to action of any believer who is just beat down by life.   She consistently references Scripture as the means to address the battles you face!

The Introduction alone began speaking to my heart – and I began to devour this book.  Sometimes, it was painful to sit back and contemplate the message and apply it to my own life.  But then it was also SO encouraging and uplifting and I highly recommend it.

[I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

Disclosure: Some affiliate links have been used within this post.

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!

Author:  Stephen Arterburn

Published: 2011

My Rating:  3 1/2 out of 5 stars

Overview

A wealthy entrepreneur, Jonathan Rush, returns to Fairbanks, Alaska, in search of more information about his birth parents.  Abandoned by his parents at the age of 4, Jonathan was adopted and raised by a loving family.  As an adult, however, he is unable to come to terms with his feelings of rejection.  Spurred on by his Christian counselor, Rush reluctantly embarks on a journey to explore the roots of the deep resentment and anger which are spilling over into his life.

Upon his arrival, he teams up with a local journalist, and discovers far more about himself and his beginnings than he ever imagined.  Set int he wintry beauty of central Alaska, the mystery of Jonathan’s parents is uncovered, and he not only finds release from anger, but redemption as well.

My Review

Okay – so I was completely attracted to this book for three reasons: 1)  I’m a birth mom and gave up a son for adoption when I was 17 years old,  2) I grew up in Anchorage, Alaska and am in love with the state, and  3) I’ve been a fan of Stephen Arterburn’s for several years now.

November is National Adoption Month – and this book is totally appropriate for this review!

The story was immediately interesting – on many levels, and I enjoyed digging into it.  My only (slight) complaint was that it was somewhat predictable.  Whether that is because I’m a birth mom or for some other reason – I don’t know for sure – but I could figure out several of the twists and turns before they happened.

That being said – it is a great story and I thoroughly enjoyed the plot.  It is definitely a good book for reading.  The additional pages that follow the end of the story are especially interesting as they go a little bit behind the story, into real life stories that the author shares.

I read this book in just a few hours.  It is only 140 pages long.  Followed by 20+ pages of  “The Truth Behind the Fiction” which is really good food for thought…

[I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson publishers through the Booksneeze for bloggers program. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

Disclosure: Some affiliate links have been used within this post.

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!

In this heartfelt devotional, Heather challenges her readers with the question, “Do we really know what it means to delight in the Lord?” By sharing her personal struggles, she explores this topic by first addressing issues like pride and control. Heather challenges her readers with this thought, “With our pride comes control. When we are consumed with our need to protect our sin through pride, we also work to maintain control of our life.”

Thank you, Becky, at Purposeful Homemaking for your review of the Desires of My Heart eBook.

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!

Overview

Written by a homeschooling mom for homeschooling moms, Mrs Carauna presents simple but effective tools, tips, and suggestions to help create or build upon organizational systems for homeschooling.  From a scriptural standpoint, these ideas take on new meaning and go beyond simple organizational methods or lists.  Understanding your role as mother and woman of God, first and foremost, you are encouraged to consider your own motivations, strengths & weaknesses, and internal processes as a means to move into an orderly and structured homeschool lifestyle.

Each chapter addresses various areas to consider including your time, supplies and materials, your thoughts and your space.  Inviting practical steps with a spiritual emphasis, you are given well-thought out reasons for implementing organization for your homeschooling journey.

My Review

Although the coming year will be our first year for homeschooling, I was already convicted by many topics addressed in this book.  Mrs Carauna gave me cause to consider so much of what is in my heart and mind – even before homeschooling – and I appreciate the wise advice!  It is overwhelming to consider everything for homeschooling, but she has taken the time to break so many things down, that as I read them and begin implementing some of them, I feel a little less overwhelmed.

I really appreciated the chapters on organizing thoughts and time.  She did not just present methods of organization – she really dug into motivational factors and heart attitudes as a mother – not just a homeschool mom.  These honest questions and ideas gave me a lot to chew on, and I appreciated the internal review as much as the external recommendations.  Towards the end of the book, illustrations and lists provided became springboards to work from and the Additional Resources in the back of the book gave me more practical helps to consider.

If you are a homeschool mom who needs a bit of help in the organizational area – or if you are a new homeschool mom – I would recommend you get your hands on a copy of this book and take time to really read it front to back.  You may find the tools you need to streamline your homeschool life.

[This is a book I borrowed from my local library for my own personal use. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!

Overview

A vast collection of a wide variety of muffin recipes, this looks more like an encyclopedia than a cookbook!  Featuring recipes for The Top 25 Classics, Coffeehouse Muffins, Lunch and Supper Muffins, Farmers’ Market Muffins, and even Vegan Muffins, you will find recipes to suit anyone’s taste or dietary needs.

Sweet and savory, mini or jumbo, quick & easy or gourmet – your cooking ability may be challenged and inspired after perusing the titles and ingredients of this collection.  Beginning with a Basic Muffin recipe, you will find the common everyday muffin recipes – like Banana Walnut or Morning Glory -  that could become your family’s classics.

Global Muffins include recipes from or inspired by goodies from France, Austria, Germany, Thailand, or the Philippines.

Gluten-Free Muffins include recipes like Date and Walnut muffins, Scottish Oat Muffins, Sweet Breakfast Risotto Muffins, and Dulce de Leche Muffins.

My Review

When I saw this book at the library, I knew I had to check it out.  I’m a BIG fan of muffins.  Big ones, little ones – it doesn’t really matter – I love them all.  And while I know I could NEVER make every recipe in this book, I was pleasantly surprised  at the number of recipes that were appealing to me.

The section of Breakfast Muffins includes several recipes that I will copy and try with my family.  We love having easy breakfast options, and anything that includes bananas, cranberries, oats, OR bacon would be a hit in our house!

I have to say, though, that my favorite section is the Global Muffins.  New-to-me ingredients and twists on traditional favorites (like linzertorte, lebkuchen, or cannoli) really had my imagination buzzing!  With several full-color, full-sized pictures – this is one of those cookbooks I’d like to just sit and read through for pleasure – and then make my way to the kitchen to get baking!

[This is a book I checked out from my local library, and did not have to purchase it, and was not given a free copy for review.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are included in this post!

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!

The Holy Bible: Mosaic NLT
is a very beautifully put together Bible. I have honestly never seen a Bible quite like it.

The Holy Bible: Mosaic provides weekly meditations that are designed to be used in connection with the church year. According to the Holy Bible: Mosaic, “the church calendar is organized around God and his activity in the world.” This was very interesting to me because I have never heard of the church calendar before, and after looking over the weekly meditations I must say I am intrigued!

The weekly meditations are also great for simply studying the Bible. The meditations focus on specific topic and include a devotion, scripture references to study, time for reflection, poems, and so much more. Not only can you participate in the weekly meditations, you can also simply read the Bible. The Holy Bible: Mosaic provides the New Living Translation of the Bible along with the weekly meditations.

Below is a quote from the Holy Bible Mosaic website describing the Bible a bit more:

Holy Bible: Mosaic is about helping you encounter Christ in a deep and authentic way, through insight from every continent and century of the Christian Church. Historical and contemporary art and writings from across the globe offer a depth of Scriptural wisdom and understanding as you read and reflect on God’s word.

I am very excited to also introduce you to Ruth Tuttle Conrad, who is a contributor to the Holy Bible: Mosaic. Ruth wrote the meditation for “Authenticity,” Pentecost week 14.

Contest:

I’m also very excited to announce that we have a gift certificate to give away! This certificate is good for one FREE Holy Bible: Mosaic! To enter the contest you will need to do one, or more of the following.

You will receive ONE entry for each action you take:

1. Make a comment on this blog post, below!
2. Tweet this contest on twitter. Be sure to leave a comment here with your @ twitter name so you will be entered in the contest.
3. Subscribe to the CSAHM Newsletter. Be sure to leave a comment here stating you subscribed to the newsletter.
4. Make a post on your blog and link back to this post to share about the contest. Be sure to post a comment here with a link to your post to receive an entry for your post!

The winner will be randomly drawn and announced on November 12, 2009! Good luck!

Disclosure: No money was recieved to review the Holy Bible: Mosaic. However a free copy was provided for review and certificate for a free Mosaic Bible was provided for the giveaway as well. CSAHM is a member of the Tyndale blog network. Links to amazon are affiliate links.

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!

The beginning of “In Praise of Stay at Home Moms” feels more like an attack on the working outside the home mom more than something that will make a stay at home mom feel better about her choice to be a stay at home wife and mother. However the rest of the book really does motivate the stay at home mom.

I personally found the book encouraging me to be proud of my position as a full time wife and mother. Honestly their aren’t very many resources out there ready to provide an encouraging word to the Stay at Home Mom. It also helped me to stop focusing on the negative and stop taking the special gift of being a stay at home mom for granted.

I would have preferred to read more praise for the stay at home mom who takes their job to the next level & decides to homeschool their children. That would be a great book idea “In Praise of the Stay at Home Homeschooling Mom!”

Some of the topics discussed in “In praise of Stay at Home Moms”:

1. The Stay at Home Moms Inner Struggles
2. The Naysayers
3. How Staying at Home Impacts the Marriage
4. How Stay at Home Moms Benefit Kids
5. Being a Stay at Home Mom Changes You
6. The Good, The Bad, The Unforgettable
7. Advice for SAHM’s

All in all I feel this is a great book for the Stay at Home Mom to find the motivation & encouragement they certainly need and deserve. This is also a great book to read if you are on the fence as to whether or not to become a stay at home wife and mom.

I give the book In praise of Stay-at-Home-Moms 2.5 out of 4 stars. It was a great read, however I wasn’t a fan of the negativity towards working outside the home from the first couple of chapters.

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
Subscribe to CSAHM via Kindle!