CFBA Review ~ eye of the god

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
eye of the god
Abingdon Press (October 1, 2009)
by
Ariel Allison
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed the action and suspense throughout the book. The interesting back stories furthered the intrigue and made eye of the god a can't-put-it-down book. Fun read!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Allison is a published author who lives in a small Texas town with her husband and three young sons. She is the co-author of Daddy Do You Love Me: a Daughter’s Journey of Faith and Restoration (New Leaf Press, 2006). Justin Case, the first of three children’s books will be published by Harvest House in June 2009. Ariel is a weekly contributor to www.ChristianDevotions.us and has written for Today’s Christian Woman. She ponders on life as a mother of all boys at www.themoabclub.blogspot.com and on her thoughts as a redeemed dreamer at www.arielallison.blogspot.com.


From Ariel:
I am the daughter of an acclaimed and eccentric artist, and given my “unconventional” childhood, had ample time to explore the intricacies of story telling. I was raised at the top of the Rocky Mountains with no running water or electricity (think Laura Ingles meets the Hippie Movement), and lived out the books I read while running barefoot through the sagebrush. My mother read to me by the light of a kerosene lantern for well over a decade, long after I could devour an entire novel in the course of a day. Authors such as C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkein, George MacDonald, and L.M. Montgomery were the first to capture my heart and I have
grown to love many others since.

ABOUT THE BOOK

eye of the god takes the fascinating history surrounding the Hope Diamond and weaves it together with a present-day plot to steal the jewel from the Smithsonian Institute.

We follow Alex and Isaac Weld, the most lucrative jewel thieves in the world, in their quest to steal the gem, which according to legend was once the eye of a Hindu idol named Rama Sita. When it was stolen in the 17th century, it is said that the idol cursed all those who would possess it. That won’t stop the brilliant and ruthless Weld brothers.

However, they are not prepared for Dr. Abigail Mitchell, the beautiful Smithsonian Director, who has her own connection to the Hope Diamond and a deadly secret to keep. Abby committed long ago that she would not serve a god made with human hands, and the “eye of the god” is no exception. Her desire is not for wealth, but for wisdom. She seeks not power, but restoration.

When the dust settles over the last great adventure of the Hope Diamond, readers will understand the “curse” that has haunted its legacy is nothing more than the greed of evil men who bring destruction upon themselves. No god chiseled from stone can direct the fates of humankind, nor can it change the course of God’s story.

If you would like to read the prologue and first chapter of eye of the god, go HERE

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Friendship

This week, I was reminded how much I value the friendship from my online friends.

I know there are nay-sayers who scoff at the idea that you can truly be friends with someone you've never met before. I think I actually used to fall into that category myself. But I am proud to say I consider my online friends some of the best friends I've ever had.

And I've actually met some of them in person too, so I know they're really real.

The week started with a phone call from Toni. When the first words out of someone's mouth are "seriously?" instead of hello, you know they are a real friend.

When I logged back in to twitter today for the first time in a few days, I was blown away to see all the thoughts, prayers and well-wishes filling up my tweet stream. I was so overwhelmed, I had to close twitter, because I didn't have the time I wanted to personally thank everyone.

But I say it now...thank you to all my friends who wished us well this week. You are as special to me as that third cup of coffee I drink in a quiet moment in the middle of the afternoon. And since you are my friends, you'll know how much that really means to me!

Then, when the phone rang this morning and I saw it was Amy, I had to smile. I'd missed 2 days of our email correspondence and she just wanted to check up on me and make sure I was okay.

Is there anything finer than friendship like that?

I truly feel blessed to have this tiny, close-knit community of friends that is spread all across the country.

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday.

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Packing Snacks

As I'm slowly crossing off things on our countdown to Disney to-do list (5 days and counting...), I'm beginning to pack our suitcases. I like to spread out the packing over a few days whenever possible. I find that it really helps to remember all those little things that usually get forgotten. Also, it's much easier to toss a newly-cleaned article of clothing right into the suitcase than to put it away just to pull it out again in a few days.

While writing my packing list today, I was reminded of a favorite tip my whole family uses whenever we go to Disney World. We pack our own snacks and a few other food items. This is a great way to have a quick breakfast before leaving the room or energy food while at the parks without the extra expense.

The added bonus is that this leaves extra space in our suitcases for souvenirs on the return trip home. Even if I cram something into every possible space in the suitcases, I know we'll have extra room for any goodies that we buy.

This tip definitely applies for any traveling too - not just Disney World. But obviously, I have Disney on the brain right now!

Stop by We Are THAT Family for more Works For Me Wednesday.

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CFBA Review ~ The Fence My Father Built

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Fence My Father Built
Abingdon Press (October 2009)
by
Linda S. Clare
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed the unique plot of this book. Linda S. Clare did a great job using symbolism throughout the book, which was really engaging to me as a reader. I thought it was a great read and one I'd definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Linda S. Clare is an award-winning coauthor of three books, including Lost Boys and the Moms Who Love Them (with Melody Carlson and Heather Kopp), Revealed: Spiritual Reality in a Makeover World, and Making Peace with a Dangerous God (with Kristen Johnson Ingram). She has also published many essays, stories, and poems in publications including The Christian Reader, The Denver Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Linda grew up in a part of Arizona, where the dirt is as red as it is in Central Oregon. She graduated summa cum laude in Art Education from Arizona State University and taught in public and private schools. She has taught college-level creative writing classes for seven years, and edits and mentors writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter and church retreat leader. She and her husband of thirty-one years have four grown children, including a set of twins. They live in Eugene, Oregon, with their five wayward cats: Oliver, Xena the Warrior Kitty, Paladine, Melchior, and Mamma Mia!

ABOUT THE BOOK

When legally separated Muri Pond, a librarian, hauls her kids, teenager Nova and eleven year-old Truman, out to the tiny town of Murkee, Oregon, where her father, Joe Pond lived and died, she's confronted by a neighbor's harassment over water rights and Joe's legacy: a fence made from old oven doors.

The fence and accompanying house trailer horrify rebellious Nova, who runs away to the drug-infested streets of Seattle. Muri searches for her daughter and for something to believe in, all the while trying to save her inheritance from the conniving neighbor who calls her dad Chief Joseph.

Along with Joe's sister, Aunt Lutie, and the Red Rock Tabernacle Ladies, Muri must rediscover the faith her alcoholic dad never abandoned in order to reclaim her own spiritual path.

Watch the trailer:




If you would like to read the first chapter of The Fence My Father Built , go HERE

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Frugal Flower Display

My decorating skills tend to fall strongly on the side of minimalist, with a few things thrown in here and there just for aesthetic pleasure. However, when we put our house on the market a year and a half ago, we decided to leave it move-in ready and packed away the few decorative items we had. Needless to say, our house is now minimalist to the point of being sterile looking. That's not really the look we were going for.

We always talk about hanging pictures again, or pulling out some decorations, but it just never happens. Although I've got to hand it to the kids; they do a fantastic job of personalizing every square inch of reachable wall space.

While those bigger jobs get pushed to the side, I do like to have at least an item or two around the house to add a little beauty to our drab, dull walls. And when I can do that with items we have around the house or that cost next to nothing, so much the better.

Case in point, these sunflowers. Aren't they gorgeous? I snagged them for a manager's special markdown of $4 last week. I just couldn't resist.

As soon as I saw them, I knew what I wanted to display them in too. I used our campfire coffee pot and I think it was the perfect touch.


We bought that coffee pot for $5 and we used it all summer long over our fire pit. It made some fantastic coffee. But now that colder weather is keeping us indoors more and more, I've decided to use it as a decorative piece whenever possible. In addition to the fact that I just love the way it looks, it's also a great visual reminder of all the wonderful evenings Eric and I spent outside by the fire.

We might have to buy another one next year, depending on how often I use it now, but I think it's worth it. We'll definitely get a lot more than $5 worth of use out of it.

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday and Life As Mom for more Frugal Friday.

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CFBA Review ~ Watch Over Me

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Watch Over Me
(Bethany House October 1, 2009)
by
Christa Parrish
My Thoughts:
Watch Over Me is definitely the kind of book that grabs you by the heart and just doesn't let go. The struggles and victories faced by the main characters were gripping. I enjoyed the way Christa Parrish presented the two points of view. She did a great job of keeping things flowing smoothly without taking away from the plot.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Christa Parrish graduated high school at 16, with every intention of becoming a surgeon. After college, however, her love of all things creative led her in another direction, and she worked in both theatre and journalism.

A winner of Associated Press awards for her reporting, Christa gave up her career after the birth of her son, Jacob. She continued to write from home, doing pro bono work for the New York Family Policy Council, where her articles appeared in Focus on the Family’s Citizen magazine. She was also a finalist in World magazine’s WORLDview short story contest, sponsored by WestBow press. She now teaches literature and writing to high school students, is a homeschool mom, and lives with her husband, author Chris Coppernoll, and son in upstate New York, where she is at work on her third novel.



ABOUT THE BOOK

Her Rescue Might Be the Miracle They Needed Things like this don't happen in Beck County. Deputy Benjamin Patil is the one to find the infant girl, hours old, abandoned in a field. As police work to identify the mother, Ben and his wife, Abbi, seem like the obvious couple to serve as foster parents. But the newborn's arrival opens old wounds for Abbi and shines a harsh light on how much Ben has changed since a devastating military tour. Their marriage teeters on the brink and now they must choose to reclaim what they once had or lose each other forever.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Watch Over Me, go HERE

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Keeping My Budding Chefs Busy

My girls love to be in the kitchen with me. Well, all of the kids do actually, but with Isabelle and Alex now in school, it's just me and the little girls.

I have always done my best to include our kids in the kitchen and let them help out in any way possible. I think I've had at least one child sitting on the kitchen counter every single day for at least 4 years now. Honestly, it's the best way for them to get right in on the action. We have kitchen stools that get brought in sometimes too.

When I know I will be working on a really involved project that isn't very child friendly, I still let them join me and occupy themselves. I use a simple trick of just some flour and a little bit of water, just enough to form a basic dough.
I let the kids have at it once I get the beginning mixing out of the way. I leave some extra flour out so that they can roll it out and imitate me. It's easier than mixing up a homemade playdough and it's also better than giving them raw dough that I've made, although I've been known to do that on occasion too.
Just because they can't help with what I'm working on at that moment doesn't mean I can't find something for them to do.

Yes, they get messy.

Yes, my floors get messy.

But the smiles on their faces while they create and the fun we have working alongside each other more than makes up for it.

Stop by We Are THAT Family for more Works For Me Wednesday.

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My Top 10 Disney To-Dos

We're in the homestretch now. Two weeks from today, we'll be in Disney World. And I have a feeling these two are going to fly by for me, even as they drag on for the kids. So much to do...so little time. You know how it goes.

As I've mentioned in the past, we've been planning this trip almost since the minute our last trip ended 2 years ago. My parents take our family and my sister and her family every two or three years. We are so fortunate and so thankful.

My mom and sister are definitely the planners and the ones that make sure we fit everything we want to fit into our jam-packed days. We've had meal reservations since the first possible opportunity.

So since we've been dreaming and planning, I thought I'd share some of the things I'm most looking forward to while we are there.

1. For his 40th birthday, my parents gave Eric a day at the Richard Petty Driving Experience. I can not wait to take the kids and watch him drive around the track.
2. Gracie is the only one who, obviously, does not remember our last trip. She was only 8 months old at the time. So I can not wait to watch her face as she experiences everything again for the first time, especially seeing the characters.
3. Alex has been talking about the monorail ever since our last trip. He can't wait to go back on it. I'm thinking we'll even try to sit with the driver if we get the chance.
4. In previous years we opted out of the parades because the kids were too young. But this year we are not going to miss it. We're planning to watch the Main Street parade at the Magic Kingdom. I think I'm more excited about this than the kids are.
5. One of our favorite rituals is getting autographs from the characters. Each kid has their own autograph book to get signed. It's definitely one of my favorite souvenirs.
6. We have some great meals planned - dinner at Chef Mickey's, lunch at Norway in Epcot with the princesses, breakfast at the Crystal Palace, dinner at Morocco, dinner at O'hana in the Polynesian, lunch at the Brown Derby in Disney Studios, lunch at the Rose & Crown Pub in Epcot. So much good food! Fortunately we'll be doing lots and lots of walking!
7. I have so many favorite rides and attractions that I can't possibly narrow it down to just a few. But what's a trip to Disney World without all of those things? They're definitely at the top of my list.
8. We took over 350 pictures last time we went and that was before I was into photography. I'm really looking forward to getting lots of great pictures this time around.
9. We stay at vacation club villas at the Beach Club. And aside from the wonderful villas, the pool is out of this world and I can't wait for us all to spend some time swimming.
10. Nothing can beat the magic of that very first day, walking into the gates of the Magic Kingdom for the first time and seeing the castle holding court at the end of Main Street. As breathtaking as it is, it also feels a little like coming home. Those are the moments that you just can't capture on film.

Stop by Oh Amanda for more Top 10 Tuesday.

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Menu Plan Monday ~ Week of 10/19

After an extra busy week last week and a very mellow weekend, we are ready to tackle another week. There's not too much extra on the schedule for this week. I'm thinking we'll take some time to just relax when we can before the busyness of next week and getting ready to go to Disney World hits.

We're still working our way through the apples we picked last weekend. As I write this, there's a batch of apple leather drying in the oven and some apple butter finishing up in the crock pot. I still have half a bushel to do some fun things with this week too.

I've spent quite a bit of time this weekend thinking of some new meals I want to try, so my planning for breakfast and lunch this week is minimal and not planned out by days. This isn't the usual for us, so I'm curious to see how it works out.

Breakfasts

• Apple coffee cake, cinnamon raisin swirl bread with apple butter, cereal. bagels with peanut butter, scrambled eggs, oatmeal

Lunch

• Stuffed breadsticks, grilled cheese, leftovers, easy chicken soup. fresh fruit, yogurt

Dinner

• M - Caribbean Pork Stew, rice
• T - Kids ~ tuna casserole; Adults ~ date night at home, not sure what we'll eat yet
• W - Portabello & garlic pasta, side salad
• Th - Sloppy Joe potato boats, broccoli
• F - Sausage & apple stuffed waffles
• S - Italian-stuffed chicken breasts, spinach risotto
• Su - Soup of some kind

Stop by Org Junkie for more menu planning madness.

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CFBA Review ~ Leaving Yesterday

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Leaving Yesterday
Bethany House (October 1, 2009)
by
Kathryn Cushman
My Thoughts
This book was beautiful and heart-wrenching at the same time. The inner turmoil and struggles of the main characters were inconceivable to me, yet the compassion with which Kathryn Cushman wrote made me understand. I fought for Alisa Stewart every step of the way.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I graduated from Samford University with a degree in pharmacy, but I’ve known all my life that I wanted to write a novel “some day”. For me, “some day” came about five years ago, when I started writing and never looked back.

My third attempt became my first published novel.

A Promise to Remember was a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers Book-of-the-Year in the Women’s Fiction category, and Waiting for Daybreak was a finalist in Women’s Fiction for the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. Leaving Yesterday just arrived on scene and I’m very excited about it!

On the homefront, I’ve been married to the wonderful and handsome Lee for over twenty years now, and our two daughters are currently braving the worlds of elementary and high school. We’ve lived in Santa Barbara for the last seventeen years. When I’m not writing or reading or braving seventy degree holidays, you’ll find me watching the younger daughter play softball, or the older daughter building amazing high school theater sets



ABOUT THE BOOK

Alisa Stewart feels like she's lost two sons: her youngest to a terrible tragedy and her eldest, Kurt, to a life ruined by addiction. But now Kurt has checked himself into rehab and found a healing faith that seems real. It's like he's been raised from the dead.

But then a detective arrives at Alisa's door asking questions about a murder--the death of a drug dealer before Kurt entered rehab. Alisa fears losing her son again, and when she finds evidence linking him to the killing, she destroys it. Her boy is different now. He's changed and deserves a second chance.

But when another man is charged with the crime, Alisa finds herself facing an impossible choice: be silent and keep her son or give up everything for the truth.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Leaving Yesterday, go HERE

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Working Together

Tonight I did something I've never done before - I went to work with Eric for a while. Isabelle, Alex and Olivia have each had their turns. Gracie's is coming soon as she gets a little older. So I thought it was about time I got in on that action too.

Actually, the whole thing was Eric's idea. When we scheduled conferences for the kids at school a few weeks ago, we knew we'd have to get a sitter. And when Eric found out his dad could stay with the kids, he thought it would be fun to extend our time out into a date night of sorts.

So that's exactly what we did! We went to the conferences and then drove to one of Eric's job sites. I followed orders pretty well I think. I don't know if my skills quite line up with Isabelle's yet and I probably won't be receiving an employee of the month award anytime soon, but it was fun. I really enjoyed the shift in perspective as I watched Eric in his element at work.

After we left the first place, we followed his occasional routine of a quick drive-thru dinner eaten in the car parked in the parking lot of his next job. Then we got to work.

I definitely think we'll have to do this again. It might not go down as the most romantic date in history, but I'm not complaining one bit. This was a night full of quality time. I saw a different side of my husband that will help me understand him immensely when he talks about work from now on. Memories and fun were made throughout the mundane. What a finer thing that was!

Stop by Amy's Finer Things for more Finer Things Friday.

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CFBA Review ~ Things Worth Remembering

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Things Worth Remembering
Bethany House (October 1, 2009)
by
Jackina Stark
My Thoughts
Jackina Stark has once again blown me away with her powerful words and beautiful story telling skills, just like she did with her last book, Tender Graces. The characters in Things Worth Remembering are so well written and vivid that they are unforgettable. The story of redemption and healing was inspiring.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jackina (pronounced with a long “i” to rhyme with China) Stark recently retired from teaching English at Ozark Christian College to spend more time writing and traveling.

Jackina says: "Although I loved my subjects and my students, I retired to do more writing and speaking, to spend more time with my family, and to travel with family and friends (including trips to encourage two missions in Cambodia). I have also spoken nationally and internationally at many retreats and seminars and enjoy running into many readers and former students. I have written frequently for both Christian Standard and Lookout, periodicals of Standard Publishing. Years ago I wrote two non-fiction books, published by College Press, but currently out of print. These days, I’m exploring fiction. My first novel, Tender Grace, was released by Bethany House January 30, 2009, and Things Worth Remembering, is the second. I’m working on new projects, including a third novel, as time permits. Whether speaking or writing, I love the opportunity to tell about Him whom Jesus called “Holy Father” and “the only true God.”

She has been married to her husband, Tony, for forty-two years. They live in Carl Junction, Missouri, and have two daughters and six grandchildren.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Kendy Laswell and her daughter, Maisey, used to do everything together--until one fateful summer when Maisey witnessed something she shouldn't have, and their relationship fractured. Now, Maisey is back home to get married and Kendy realizes this is her last chance to reconnect with her daughter. Will Kendy and Maisey be able to reclaim the bond they once shared?

Maisey asked for a bride doll the Christmas she was five, mesmerized by her aunt's wedding the fall before. Since then I've been dreaming of the day, or days, we would shop for her wedding dress. A mother helping her daughter find just the right creation for that momentous walk down the aisle strikes me as one of life's happiest endeavors. The night she called to tell us she'd bought her "dream of a gown," I sat beside Luke on the couch, a striking contrast to Maisey's exuberance.
My dejection seemed a tad inappropriate. "Being hurt because I wasn't included is silly, isn't it?" I asked.

"Not so silly," he said.

Will I ever quit longing for the Maisey who was once mine?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Things Worth Remembering , go HERE

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Making Time To Read

Reading is definitely my second favorite hobby, right after writing, cooking, photography and all those other things that go into blogging.

I tend to read about two books a week. I could probably read more if I just skimmed through and didn't really get into the story. But then, that wouldn't feel like reading at all to me.

I used to believe having kids meant that I didn't have time to read. I'd occasionally grab a few books from the library and feel good if I made it through two of them before they were due back. My reading time was limited to those 15 or 20 minutes before I fell asleep at night.

I'm not sure what changed for me, but one day I realized if I made reading a priority in my day, I could fit it in seamlessly. Plus, it is a great example for the kids. Why would I expect them to love reading and find enjoyment in curling up with a good book if they never actually saw me doing that?

So now, on any given day, I read for myself from half an hour to an hour during the day, plus that standard before bed reading. Sometimes there are long chunks of time when there are no pressing chores and the kids are occupied with something else and sometimes I sneak in 5 minutes here and there on really busy days.

I'll admit there are days when it feels indulgent, but when I see the kids grab their own books to "read" and curl up next to me, I am smart enough to acknowledge the greater good of this selfish habit. Taking time for myself while setting a good example for my children definitely works for me.

Stop by We Are THAT Family for more Works For Me Wednesday.

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Going On An Apple Hunt

Finally...finally we fit our apple picking trip into our schedule and can cross it off of our fall to-do list.

We braved some chilly temperatures but warmed ourselves with cups of hot cider and hot, freshly made donuts.

Our first pass down the very first aisle we walked down didn't look too promising. There were more apples on the ground than in the trees. So we by-passed the adjoining row and headed over to the next one where the trees were overflowing.


We picked our share. Although honestly, I should say the kids picked their share while Eric and I each held our half-bushel sized bags. We let the kids fill them up as high as they could go, even if that meant pinched fingers, sore wrists and aching backs.

Sometimes kids and apples are more important than physical discomfort.


Truly, there is nothing more joyful than watching them run through the open rows, surrounded by a beautiful bounty.I am so grateful for this yearly tradition. I am so grateful for another wonderful day spent all together as a family. And I am so very grateful that we all enjoy each other so much!

Stop by Heavenly Homemakers for more Gratituesday and 5 Minutes For Mom for more Tackle It Tuesday.

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Menu Plan Monday ~ Week of 10/12

We finally made it to the apple orchard and brought home a bushel of apples. I'm excited to get started on those. I'm planning to make some applesauce, apple leather, apple butter (using Phoebe's recipe), cinnamon apples and some baked goods. Hopefully we'll have enough apples! I guess I can always run to the store and pick some up off the shelf if I need to.

This week I also need to force myself to finish the clothing swap for the kids. It's been put off long enough and they are all in dire need of sweaters and other warm stuff. So I'm going to try to keep things easy other than all the apple work.

We also have conferences for Isabelle and Alex on Thursday afternoon. Wednesday we're planning to do some shopping to snag some end-of-season deals on summer clothes for the kids to take to Walt Disney World. Add in a meeting on Tuesday and Thursday morning and things are beyond busy around here. That vacation can't come soon enough!

Breakfast

• M - Sausage and biscuit sandwiches (from the freezer)
  
• T - Cream cheese apple muffins & smoothies
• W - French toast
• Th - Caramel Apple Coffee Cake
  
• F - Banana Oatmeal
  
• S - Blueberry Pancakes
  
• Su - Breakfast cookies

Lunch

• M - Peanut butter & honey sandwiches, apple slices
• T - Chicken salad pitas, peaches
• W - Macaroni & cheese, grapes
• Th - Pita pizzas, apple slices
• F - Cream cheese wontons, carrots & celery sticks
• S - Loaded Baked potato soup
• Su - TBD

Dinner

• M - Polish sausage & cabbage soup, leftover biscuits
• T - Black bean & rice burritos, skillet corn
  
• W - Something with chicken. I have a few new ideas I'm considering.
  
• Th - TBD
• F - Spaghetti & tossed salad
• S - Family Movie Night! Homemade restaurant-style "Samplin' Platter" (pretzel chicken fingers, mozzarella wedges, onion straws, breaded zucchini & mushrooms) & root beer
• Su -Bacon & cheese quiche, cinnamon apples

Don't forget to get your menu planning fix over at Org Junkie.

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Weekend Linkage

Well, assuming the weather holds out, it looks like we will finally fit in our yearly apple orchard trip this weekend. We're all really looking forward to it, almost as much as we're looking forward to all the great things we'll be making with the apples afterward. Depending on how the weekend goes, we'll get started on Sunday.

Other than that, there's not too much going on around our house. I wasn't able to get to the seasonal clothing swap out this week, so that's priority number 1 next week. We're also gearing up and counting down for our trip to Disney World. Just over 3 weeks to go!

Here's some links that caught my attention this week.

• Last week on twitter, I saw an announcement that the Disney Parks blog just launched. This is exciting stuff for me, especially right now. And for anyone else that loves the magic of all the Disney parks, you'll definitely enjoy spending some time looking around the site.
• I am looking forward to trying out Phoebe's recipe for Crockpot Apple Butter with some of our apples. It looks wonderful.
• I enjoyed reading this Mommy Come Home post on Unfinished Mom. It was so encouraging and well-written.
• Connie delves into the Power of Suggestion with her thought-provoking post. It made me stop and consider rewording some of the things I say sometimes.
• If you've never visited Vanderbilt Wife, you really should. Jessie writes beautifully from the heart, shares awesome recipes and lets us all into her house as she prepares to sell. Not to mention, if you ever want to have a book discussion with someone, she needs to be at the top of your list! We had a great twitter/email chat last week about a book that was so satisfying and fun.
  

Have a great weekend!

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How Guilt Can Cost Money

I've noticed that there are a lot of times when my frugality collide with guilt of some sort. I feel guilty when I buy diapers at the convenience store because they cost two dollars more. I feel guilty when I forget a coupon at home. I feel guilty when I buy a cup of coffee when we go out since I forgot to grab a travel mug as we headed out the door.

In my book, that guilt is actually pretty rational and it's a large part of what has kept us successful with frugality. I do make sure to get myself some slack now and then though because life happens and sometimes things are unavoidable.

But I'm actually talking about another kind of guilt. I'll share with you the perfect example of this that Eric gave me today.

For a long time, he has been stopping every night at a gas station to pick up a candy bar for his long drive. It's a small indulgence, but an indulgence nonetheless. He felt guilty about this little habit. Then one day, he realized that it was okay to treat himself like this but it was not okay to continue spending the 80 cents a day. So he went to Sam's Club, bought a large box of candy bars and now indulges guiltlessly each night for just 49 cents.

I've fallen into this same trap many times myself. How many times have I thrown away pizza coupons because just the thought of buying carry-out pizza makes me feel guilty? You know what - I can feel guilty as much as I want and we'll still end up getting a pizza occasionally. That silly guilt that makes me throw those coupons away costs about $5 at least every time we get a pizza.

I guess what I'm trying to say is avoid extra spending when possible, but be realistic with your habits and don't let guilt stop you from saving a few dollars. That's a lesson we're finally starting to really learn at our house.

Stop by Life As Mom for more Frugal Friday.

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CFBA Review ~ Though Waters Roar

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Though Waters Roar
· Bethany House (October 1, 2009)
by
Lynn Austin
My Thoughts:
Like every other book written by Lynn Austin that I've read, this one is a winner. The gripping story flawlessly ties together 4 generations of women in a brave and crusading family. There were characteristics in each of the women that I was able to relate to and I was fully invested. Beautifully written!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction.

Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel.


ABOUT THE BOOK

"Thank goodness you're such a plain child. You'll have to rely on your wits."

So went the words of Grandma Bebe. And for all of my growing-up years, I scoffed at the beauty of my sister and what I saw as her meaningless existence. But my wits hadn't served me well in this instance, for here I was, in jail. And while I could have seen it as carrying on the family tradition (for Grandma Bebe landed in jail for her support of Prohibition), the truth is, my reasons for being here would probably break her heart.

So how did I end up becoming a criminal? I've been pondering that question all night. Perhaps the best way to search for an answer is to start at the very beginning.

Harriet Sherwood has always adored her grandmother. But when Harriet decides to follow in her footsteps to fight for social justice, she certainly never expected her efforts to land her in jail. Nor did she expect her childhood enemy and notorious school bully, Tommy O'Reilly, to be the arresting officer.

Languishing in a jail cell, Harriet has plenty of time to sift through the memories of the three generations of women who have preceded her. As each story emerges, the strength of her family--and their deep faith in the God of justice and righteousness--brings Harriet to the discovery of her own goals and motives for pursuing them.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Though Waters Roar, go HERE

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Cinnamon-Sugar Tortilla Chips

We tend to have a lot of homemade sweets and desserts on hand. I suppose that's just a side effect of writing a food blog. And I assure you that is the only reason we ever have such forbidden food in our house. I blame it all on the blog.

But every so often, the supply of sweets runs dry. This usually happens on nights when Eric and I really want something desserty before bed. I have a few quick-to-fix, minimal ingredient recipes that I rely on during those times. One of our favorite is cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips.

These are so easy and they are so good. Every time we have them, either Eric or I ask how something so simple can taste so good. They're especially great for snacking on while watching a movie.
Making them is really simple. Just take as many tortillas as you want and cut them into chip-sized triangles. (For the two of us, I usually use 4 tortillas and get 8 "chips" per tortilla.) Melt some butter in a skillet, add some chips and cook until brown and crispy on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. Immediately sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar combination. Add a bit more butter to the skillet for each batch and lower the heat if the butter starts to brown too much.

That's it. So easy and so surprisingly satisfying as a sweet snack or dessert.

Stop by We Are THAT Family for more Works For Me Wednesday.

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The Community In My Home

I was all set to write about the huge project Eric and I tackled today as we completed our twice-a-year master bedroom clean-up. But then we had a conversation and I realized I tackled something far more important than simply cleaning my bedroom. It was liberating.

I was telling Eric about all of the countless trips I've been reading about lately. Bloggers being flown all over by companies for some great marketing, networking and informational sessions. And yes, I was a little jealous because some of these trips just sound awesome.


But I also mentioned how I've noticed many of the same bloggers going on lots of these trips lately. I mentioned how I don't think I could do that and spend so much time away from home. Yet, I get it. These women are building some awesome relationships in real life across the blogging community. He looked at me and said, "but don't they know the most important community is in their own homes, with their own families?"

Ah yes, I can always count on Eric to call it like he sees it and remind me of the most important things in life when I start to veer off course, even if only in my mind. He's right, isn't he?

I love being a stay-at-home mom and I would hate to ever give it up. I am now also a work-at-home mom. Notice the key word in both of those phrases is home. I stay-at-home and work-at-home so that I can be at home.

Now, I am not for one second saying that there is anything wrong with going on these trips. In fact, I'm already registering for Blissdom10 in February. And I'll even go as far as to say if an opportunity presented itself for a great company sponsored trip that I could really stand behind and gain some value from, I'd definitely consider it. But I will admit this current trend of bloggers attending countless opportunities on a regular, almost weekly, basis does worry me a little bit.

Am I just jealous? Maybe a tiny bit, but I know Eric's words really hit home for me and made me realize this community under my roof is the one I want to focus on nurturing and being present for.

I love my blogging buddies and the powerful voice of our blogging community. But honestly, I already feel like we spend every day together and I'm so glad that we do. I love the thought of spending some actual face time together a few times a year. But for the rest of the year, my voice will be heard from this blog, on twitter, in email, on the phone and anywhere else across the blogosphere where we interact.

I'm reserving the rest of my face time for my favorite little community of all.

Stop by 5 Minutes For Mom for more Tackle It Tuesday and Heavenly Homemakers for more Gratituesday.

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Menu Plan Monday ~ Week of 10/4

Our apple picking trip was rained out this weekend. So we crossed another item off our list and spent the day in Frankenmuth, MI instead. It was a great day! And don't get me started on the awesome chicken dinner we had. That meal alone is worth the 90 minute drive for sure!

Unfortunately, all of my apple plans are on hold for this week though. I think I'll try and get some baking done for the freezer. I really like having baked goods in the freezer for breakfasts and after school snacks. I got a head start on a few things today and plan to finish up tomorrow hopefully.

Breakfasts

• M - Breakfast cookies, smoothies
• T - Blueberry pancakes
• W - Banana muffins, smoothies
• Th - French toast
• F - Oatmeal, smoothies
• S - Bananas foster crepes
• Su - Sunshine toast

Lunch

• M - Tuna pasta salad, applesauce
• T - 15-Bean soup leftovers, crackers
• W - Quesadillas, pears
• Th - PB & honey sandwiches, yogurt
• F - Pizza pockets, pears
  
• S - Hummus & pitas, carrots & celery sticks
• Su - To be determined

Dinner

• M - Creamy cheese & chicken enchilads, black bean salad
• T - Beef stew & biscuits
• W - Curry chicken & broccoli casserole, tossed salad
• Th - Ham & cheese strata, maple-glazed carrots
  
• F - Taco lentils over rice, cantaloupe
• S - Chicken & dumplings or chicken pot pie
• Su - Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, garlic zucchini & mushroom saute

Stop by Org Junkie for hundreds more menus.

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CFBA Review ~ Intervention

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Intervention
Zondervan (September 22, 2009)
by
Terri Blackstock
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed the action and redemptive theme throughout this book. The story was a great, quick read and I thought the characters were very well developed. There was one thing I did not like though. The story was so strong on its own and I just didn't understand the need to tie-in a romance at the end. That really took away from the ending from me. But the rest of the story was a lot of fun!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Terri Blackstock’s books have sold six million copies worldwide. Her suspense novels often debut at number one on the Christian fiction best-seller lists, and True Light, published last year, was number one of all Christian books—fiction and non-fiction. Blackstock has had twenty-five years of success as a novelist.

In 1994 Blackstock was writing for publishers such as HarperCollins, Harlequin and Silhouette, when a spiritual awakening drew her into the Christian market. Since that time, she’s written over thirty Christian titles, in addition to the thirty-two she had in the secular market. Her most recent books are the four in her acclaimed Restoration Series, which includes Last Light, Night Light, True Light and Dawn’s Light. She is also known for her popular Newpointe 911 and Cape Refuge Series.

In addition to her suspense novels, she has written a number of novels in the women’s fiction genre, including Covenant Child, which was chosen as one of the first Women of Faith novels, and her Seasons Series written with Beverly LaHaye, wife of Tim LaHaye.

Blackstock has won the Retailer’s Choice Award and has appeared on national television programs such as The 700 Club, Home Life, and At Home Live with Chuck and Jenny. She has been a guest on numerous radio programs across the country and the subject of countless articles. The story of her personal journey appears in books such as Touched By the Savior by Mike Yorkey, True Stories of Answered Prayer by Mike Nappa, Faces of Faith by John Hanna, and I Saw Him In Your Eyes by Ace Collins.

ABOUT THE BOOK


Barbara Covington has one more chance to save her daughter from a devastating addiction, by staging an intervention. But when eighteen-year-old Emily disappears on the way to drug treatment—and her interventionist is found dead at the airport—Barbara enters her darkest nightmare of all.

Barbara and her son set out to find Emily before Detective Kent Harlan arrests her for a crime he is sure she committed. Fearing for Emily’s life, Barbara maintains her daughter’s innocence. But does she really know her anymore? Meanwhile, Kent has questions of his own. His gut tells him that this is a case of an addict killing for drugs, but as he gets to know Barbara, he begins to hope he’s wrong about Emily.

The panic level rises as the mysteries intensify: Did Emily’s obsession with drugs lead her to commit murder—or is she another victim of a cold-blooded killer?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Intervention, go HERE

Watch the book Trailer:

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CFBA Review ~ It's Not About Him

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
It's Not About Him
Sheaf House (September 1, 2009)
by
Michelle Sutton
My Thoughts:
This was an interesting book. I thought the author did a very nice job of addressing adoption and the emotions of a biological mother who gives up her child. As an adopted child myself, it was very close to my heart.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michelle Sutton, otherwise known as the Edgy Inspirational Author, is Editor-in-chief of Christian Fiction Online Magazine, a member of ACFW, a social worker by trade, and a prolific reader/book reviewer/blogger the rest of the time.

She lives in Arizona with her husband of nineteen years and her two teenaged sons. Michelle is also the author of It's Not about Me (2008) and It's Not About Him (Sheaf House 2009). She has nine other titles releasing over the next three years.





ABOUT THE BOOK

Susie passed out while drinking at Jeff’s party and later discovered she’s pregnant. She has no idea who the father is and considers having an abortion, but instead decides to place her baby for adoption. Following through ends up being more wrenching than she imagined, but she’s determined to do the right thing for her baby.

Jeff feels guilty that Susie was taken advantage of at his party and offers to marry her so she won’t have to give up her baby, like his birth mother did with him. But Susie refuses, insisting he should he marry someone he loves. Can he convince her that his love is genuine before it’s too late? Can she make him understand that it’s not about him—it’s about what’s best for her child?

If you would like to read the prologue and first chapter of It's Not About Him, go HERE

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Sweater Weather

I'm a little behind the times here. Last week, I completely forgot that we were supposed to be celebrating all of the finer things of fall. While my two youngest girls bonding is a fantastic finer thing, I couldn't let the opportunity to rave over my favorite season pass me by.

The sights, smells and colors of fall are right up at the top of the fall finer things list.

Fall would not be complete without my fill of twin finer things apple cider and apple picking.

I absolutely could celebrate fall without reveling in the finer-ness of soup. Lots and lots of big, steamy bowls of soup.

But the one thing that truly is my top finer thing of fall is sweater weather. I love big, cozy sweaters. I love being able to wear a sweater as my only layer and be warm enough to not be chilled, yet still enjoy the crisp air. Pulling on my favorite sweater is a little bit like coming home and I look forward to it every year. I could live with sweater weather all year long.

Stop by Amy's Finer Things to celebrate more Finer Things Friday and Hooked On Houses for more Hooked On...

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CFBA Review ~ The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow
Abingdon Press (September 2009)
by
Joyce Magnin
My Thoughts:
The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow is a remarkable story filled with unique and unforgettable characters. It was a delight to read! As I read the book, I wanted to walk down the streets of Bright's Pond and spend some time chatting with these people. Joyce Magnin's ability to draw the reader in to the story touches all the senses, from smelling Agnes to tasting the fried bologna sandwiches at the cafe.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Joyce Magnin is the author of short fiction and personal experience articles. She co-authored the book, Linked to Someone in Pain. She has been published in such magazines as Relief Journal, Parents Express, Sunday Digest, and Highlights for Children.

Joyce attended Bryn Mawr College and is a member of the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Fellowship. She is a frequent workshop leader at various writer’s conferences and women’s church groups.

She has three children, Rebekah, Emily, and Adam; one grandson, Lemuel Earnest; one son-in-law, Joshua, and a neurotic parakeet who can’t seem to keep a name. Joyce leads a small fiction group called StoryCrafters. She enjoys baseball, football, cream soda, and needle arts but not elevators. She currently lives in Havertown, Pennsylvania.

The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow is her first published novel.


ABOUT THE BOOK

The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow is the story of an unusual woman, Agnes Sparrow. No longer able or willing to leave her home, where she is cared for by her long-suffering sister Griselda, Agnes has committed her life to the one thing she can do-besides eat. Agnes Sparrow prays and when Agnes prays things happen, including major miracles of the cancer, ulcer-healing variety along with various minor miracles not the least of which is the recovery of lost objects and a prize-winning pumpkin.

The rural residents of Bright's Pond are so enamored with Agnes they plan to have a sign erected on the interstate that reads, "Welcome to Bright's Pond, Home of Agnes Sparrow." This is something Agnes doesn't want and sends Griselda to fight city hall.

Griselda's petitions are shot down and the sign plans press forward until a stranger comes to town looking for his miracle from Agnes. The truth of Agnes's odd motivation comes out when the town reels after a shocking event. How could Agnes allow such evil in their midst? Didn't she know?

Well, the prayers of Agnes Sparrow have more to do with Agnes than God. Agnes has been praying to atone for a sin committed when she was a child. After some tense days, the townsfolk, Griselda, and Agnes decide they all need to find their way back to the true source of the miracles-God.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow, go HERE

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