Five Minute Friday On Change

It is that time again and I am excited about Five Minute Friday today.  The topic is change and I think I have a lot to say on that one.  So you are wondering....what exactly do you so....well....the first thing you do is clear your head, for five minutes of free writing without worrying about getting it right.

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. And then absolutely, no ifs, ands or buts about it, you need to visit the person who linked up before you & encourage them in their comments. Seriously. That is, like, the rule. And the fun. And the heart of this community..
Oh and Ahem, if you would take pity and turn off comment verification, I hate having to figure out what all those mashed up letters spell, and besides it would make leaving some love on your post that much easier for folks!  OK, are you ready? Is your timer set?  I know mine is....so now please give us your best five minutes on:::

Change

Go:
Change started out for me early this morning.  I wore a black shirt today...in honor of our seniors for the pep rally...and when I got here Trina gave me a cute Wildcat shirt.  She has been losing weight all summer and her body has been changing....lucky for me I too have lost a good many pounds and can wear her hand me down shirt.  I am tickled.  So I changed shirts before my first class. I feel poetry in me today...that is a change for sure.  I have not written anything poetic in a good while.  But this morning I was looking at a guitar my father gave me when I was 13 and saw myself in it....only not so much.  I saw what I was...and the changes I have experienced in who I am in the past forty-five years.  It is a poem about change...some good....some bad.  When I looked in the mirror this morning I saw so much change...white hair, aging face....you know what I mean.....and I found myself asking the mirror image:

Who are you?  Where is the face I looked at yesterday....or was that last year?  God! This is so depressing.  I still feel young....yet, I am seeing me change intomy mother in this mirror more and more.  The change is rapid.  It seems to be more noticeable every single day.  I look at my hands and see that they are short and stocky,...man hands, remnants of my Creek Indian Heritage.  These hands were made to work hard and the calloused fingers are testimonials that they have.  When did they change from soft, delicate piano player hands to these hands who have seen work?  My eyes are the windows to my very being.  They change depending on what is happening at they time....they tell you when I 'm sick, tired, distressed, or even....lying!  My eyes have never learned to keep secrets.  My body, once looked like a sleek, classical guitar  before the days of children and marriage. Now I see change has occurred and where the classical guitar once was a bass violin stands in its place - curved, but definitely thicker.  All in all I like the changes I see in me both inside and out.  I mean we can't all be classical guitars.  Change happens and because of this change.  I am a bass fiddle, at this time in my life...so close your eyes and hear my music.  It changes from time to time....depending on the tune I hear. 

 

STOP:

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

It's Snack Time!

On back to school night, I signed up to bring a snack in today.

I had to figure out what to bring that would feed 24 kids.

Mmm, Little Debbie snacks. Is it wrong that my mind immediately went there? Some friends made me feel better about that.

“Well, oatmeal cream pies are somewhat healthy,” they joked. “There is the oatmeal..”

Still, I didn’t think the teacher would appreciate Little Debbie snacks.

Or, if she didn’t care, surely one of the parents would have a fit. I could picture a woman stomping in the class—she’s the type that wears a cardigan tied loosely around her neck, I’m sure. She’d say, “I heard from my precious Makennzee (yes, her kid will have one of those weirdly spelled names because she wanted her kid to be “different.”) that she had a snack with cream in the middle? Makennzee isn’t allowed those things. If it’s not organic, I’d rather her not eat it.”

Well, sorry crazed mother. I wasn’t going to do an organic snack. If you want organic only, go to private school.

I ended up with these:

I mean, who doesn’t love Cheez-Its? And they are educational thanks to the letters on the front. So the kids can eat and spell!

It’s a win-win!

Wildflowers From Winter

Release date: May, 8 2012

Publisher: Waterbrook Press
ISBN-10:0307730387
ISBN-13: 978-0307730381

 

About The Book:  A young architect at a prestigious Chicago firm, Bethany Quinn has built a life far removed from her trailer park teen years. Until an interruption from her estranged mother reveals that tragedy has struck in her hometown and a reluctant Bethany is called back to rural Iowa. Determined to pay her respects while avoiding any emotional entanglements, she vows not to stay long. But the unexpected inheritance of farmland and a startling turn of events in Chicago forces Bethany to come up with a new plan.  Handsome farmhand Evan Price has taken care of the Quinn farm for years. So when Bethany is left the land, he must fight her decisions to realize his dreams. But even as he disagrees with Bethany’s vision, Evan feels drawn to her and the pain she keeps so carefully locked away.  For Bethany, making peace with her past and the God of her childhood doesn’t seem like the path to freedom. Is letting go the only way to new life, love and a peace she’s not even sure exists?

Want to read a sample from the book?  Click here if you do.

About the Author:  Katie Ganshert was born and raised in the Midwest, where she writes stories about finding faith and falling in love. When she’s not busy plotting her next novel, she enjoys watching movies with her husband, playing make-believe with her wild-child of a son, and chatting with her girlfriends over bagels. She and her husband are in the process of adopting from the Congo. You can find her online at her blog and on Facebook. 

My Thoughts:  Katie Ganshert has a knack with character development.  Bethany comes off so hard in the beginning only to soften as she realizes where her love lies.  This young woman had overcome so much and I related to her turmoil where God, her mom, her grandfather, and her dad were concerned.  As a 9 year old survivor from a brother's accidental death, this story was like deja vu.  I shared every emotion and feeling Bethany had with her.  I loved this book and cannot wait to read another book by Katie Ganshert.   Once I started reading the book....I read non-stop.  This was one of those stories you give up sleep and food for....at least I did.  Great read!  Thank you Katie!

Disclaimer:  I received this book from the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Groups Blogging for Books program in an exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Things That Annoy Me Thursday: Book Abuse

Book abuse.

It’s a sad thing.

Since I’ve been going to the library more often, I’ve witnessed book abuse.

For instance. Look.

If you can’t tell, that’s a corner of the page. BENT DOWN. To keep someone’s spot.

It is incredibly rude to bend down the page of a book that does not belong to you. Why do people feel like it’s their right to do this?

Why do people do this AT ALL?

Use something for a bookmark, people. You’ve gotta have something around the house that can work as one.

At my library, there are bookmarks RIGHT AT THE CHECKOUT.

I also hate when people spill stuff in books. Keep it away from your food. I don’t want to see that you’ve consumed a chocolate bar because then it’ll make me want one.

People also feel the need to write their input about the story at times:

Yes, that was also found in my library book. (And no, I swear I wasn't reading anything dirty. The heroine in the book was a lactation consultant. It was called The Gap Year.)

Why?? Ahhh!

I love books, so this pains me to see the book abuse.

So please. The next time you borrow a book, treat it with care!

Shoes Glorious Shoes

“Amber,” Tom said, frowning. “I have a question.”

“Yes?” I replied. Maybe he was going to ask if I wanted to go to Panera Bread and get one of those flower sugar cookies that I love.

“Why does Natalie have so many shoes?” He was staring at the shoe organizer in confusion. He was holding 4 pairs of Natalie’s shoes.

“Because,” I said. “She’s a girl. And each shoe coordinates with a different outfit.”

Tom blinked at me in confusion. It was like I had responded in Swahili.

“But these are both black shoes. Why does she need two pairs of black shoes?” Tom asked.

“Oh, one pair are Mary Janes. Perfect for dresses. The others are ballet flats. More casual. You know?”

From the look on Tom’s face it was clear that he didn’t know. Not one bit.

“No more shoes, okay?” he finally said.

It’s probably best that he hasn’t seen her closet. Because…

Yeah.

Um.

In my defense, I got them all at Target when they were marked down to 70% off. It would have been a crime NOT to buy them for that price.

It’s also a good thing Tom didn’t notice there were shoes stored behind Natalie’s door.

Uh.

Also bought on sale at Target for 70% off.

They’re a mixture of sizes, by the way. One never knows when a child’s foot will grow. It’s best to be prepared, right?

Natalie has more shoes than Tom and I combined. I am missing the shoe gene for myself. I only wear two pairs of footwear: my black flip flops or my Sketcher Shape Ups that promise to tone my ass. That’s it. I mean, I do have heels shoved back in my closet that I rarely wear because I can’t walk in them properly. Plus, why spend life uncomfortable?

No, my shoe gene went to Natalie. I can’t get over how precious tiny girl shoes are.

You know, it could be worse.

I could buy a giant metal chicken named Beyonce like The Bloggess.

I think we’d be friends. We’re both passionate about our purchases.

She’d understand buying shoes for 70% off, I’m sure.

Wednesday Hodge Podge - vol 91

I agree with Joyce that it seems only appropriate that answering the questions in this Labor Day Hodgepodge required a bit of work. I'm glad you joined the party today...be sure to add your link to the bottom of Joyce's post before you head out to visit everyone else. Here are my answers to Joyce's questions.

1. Americans will celebrate Labor Day this coming weekend. Do you know what we're actually celebrating? (without consulting your friends google or wikipedia, ahem) What's a project you're currently 'laboring' over?

I was raised in a union household.  My dad was a member of the I.B.E.W.  I was raised never to cross a picket line.  I am a teacher and although it is not called a union per say....I pay dues to the NEA/AEA/ACEA - all education associations....if it looks like a duck, quacks, like a duck, and waddles like a duck....it is probably a duck.  Labor Day is a celebration of American workers.  Without them....a lot of things would never have come to pass.  I am currently laboring over a couple of things....cleaning out my parents house (which I am struggling with), and making silverware windchimes.

2. Labor Day also signifies the unofficial end of summer for most of us...what summer food will you miss the most? If you live in the Southern hemisphere feel free to substitute winter for summer.

I am going to have to mimic Joyce's answer and say watermelon, squash, and tomatoes. I too love all the summer fruits but watermelon is my favorite.  I love vine ripened tomatoes and hate the ones you buy in the grocery store in the winter.  There is no taste and no acid.

3. A well known proverb states, "It's easier to seek forgiveness than ask permission." Your thoughts?

I would personally rather 'ask permission' than forgiveness.  I have done it once or twice but was most uncomfortable with the process. 

 

4. Food critic, film critic, art critic, book critic...which hat would you most like to wear?  I would love to be a food critic.  I do reviews on books now and enjoy that too. 

 

5. When you were a kid, (besides your parents) who was your favorite adult?  I had several.  I was the only child and there were more adults in my life than kids.  In my life...I loved them all.  Little grandmother (my mom's mom) was probably number one...followed by my Godmother, Francis and then Elizabeth and Ethel(she was our landlady).  This was a great springboard for upcoming posts.  Thanks Joyce!

 

6. The astronaut Neil Armstrong passed away last week. He was regarded as a hero by many generations of people all around the world. Do we still have modern day heroes? What makes someone a hero?  I watched a History Channel special about him tonight and I agree with Joyce that back in 1969 the courage it took for those astronauts to climb into that little bitty capsule is mind boggling.  Neil Armstrong was a humble quiet and humble man for sure.  In the special on television.  he gave credit to everyone at  NASA  who made his moon walk possible rather than shouting, "Look at me!  Look what I did!"  I think he was a definite hero and a most amazing man..   The sad thing about our society  is that today money seems to make people heros.  Sports figures, movie stars, etc are all held up as heroes and that is so wrong.  T.O., the rowdy football player was a former student of mine....young men in our town idolize him....and I hate that....this man is not someone who should be idolized.  We also had a former student killed in Iraq....now that is a hero.  There is a stretch of road in front of our school and they wanted to name it after T.O.  I thought it should be named after the marine who died for my freedom.  Fortunately the name was never changed.  If I had to pick a hero today....I agree with Joyce....it would be the firefighters and policemen and invdividuals who rushed into the World Trade Center knowing there was a possibility they might not come out.  It would be the men and women who fight for my freedom so I can sleep in peace at night.  There are common everyday heroes all over the place...average people....miners who go back down after a shaft has collapsed to save their comrades....none of them have to make millions to be great.  They are great because they are brave and humble.

 

7. I never get tired of __________________....spending time with my family.

8. Insert your own random thought here.  Since I am a huge fan of Debby over at Just Breathe and a huge music buff  I am going to join with Joyce and do my list of 15 vocalists and wonder who yours are???

The instructions were to name 15 vocalists (in no particular order) who will always stick with you...don't take too long to think about it, just the first 15 that pop into your head.

1.  Bqrbara Streisand

2.  James Taylor

3.  Neil Diamond

4.  Carole King

5.  Gordon Lightfoot

6.  Mary Black

7.  Wynona  Judd

8.  Travis Cottrell

9.  Natalie Grant

10.  Nat King Cole

11. George Harrison

12.  Paul McCartney

13. Mac Powell (Third Day)

14. Chris Tomlin

15. Steven Curtis Chapman

Have a great rest of the week. 

Through Rushing Water

About The Book:  "Sophia has her life all planned out—but her plan didn’t include being jilted or ending up in Dakota Territory. Sophia Makinoff is certain that 1876 is the year that she’ll become the wife of a certain US Congressman, and happily plans her debut into the Capitol city. But when he proposes to her roommate instead, Sophia is stunned. Hoping to flee her heartache and humiliation, she signs up with the Board of Foreign Missions on a whim. With dreams of a romantic posting to the Far East, Sophia is dismayed to find she’s being sent to the Ponca Indian Agency in the bleak Dakota Territory. She can’t even run away effectively and begins to wonder how on earth she’ll be able to guide others as a missionary. But teaching the Ponca children provides her with a joy she has never known—and never expected—and ignites in her a passion for the people she’s sent to serve. It’s a passion shared by the Agency carpenter, WillougIhby Dunn, a man whose integrity and selflessness are unmatched. The Poncas are barely surviving. When U.S. policy decrees that they be uprooted from their land and marched hundreds of miles away in the middle of winter, Sophia and Will wade into rushing waters to fight for their friends, their love, and their destiny."  Want to know the real story behind the book?  If you do then check this link out. 

About The Author:  While Catherine Richmond  was busy raising a family, working as an occupational therapist, and trying to remember where she hid the chocolate,  a song sparked a story within her. The journey to publication was long, but full of blessings. She admits that she couldn’t have done it without ACFW, RWA, and FHL, the inspirational chapter of RWA, and Nebraska Novelists critique group.  Richmond was born in Washington, DC, grew up in northern Virginia, attended Western Michigan University, and moved around a lot for her husband’s aviation career. Her favorite place to write is the porch!  I love this woman.  Check out her website at:  http://catherinerichmond.com. 

My Thoughts On The Book:  When I began reading this book I thought, "Oh no...a sappy love story about a political figure and a girl."  I was far from correct on this story.  It had so many layers it was hard to keep up with them sometimes.  It drew you into the characters lives when you least expected it to,  I always dreamed of teaching school on a reservation.  This story was my dream in pen and ink.  Sophia was everything I planned on being as a teacher and then some.  I felt as if I knew her personally and then I felt as if I was looking in a mirror at myself.  My heart bled for the Ponca Indians.  I felt as if I walked each mile through the bad weather conditions with them.  I felt as if I lost the same loved ones they did.  Richmond as a way of stringing her story together where you don't want to put the book down.  I read every chance I could like a man starving for food.  It was a wonderful story about a not so wonderful time in United States History.  This book is a must read and must own.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publisher's  BookSneeze as  part of their blogger book review team in exchange for an honest review.

Hey, It's Okay Tuesday!

I got this idea from Glamour magazine. They have a section called Hey, It’s Okay and will list a bunch of things to be okay about. You're welcome to join in and do something like this on your blog. Doesn't have to be on a Tuesday either. Just make sure you link up and that the post you link up is a Hey, It's Okay Post.

-------------------------

To be sad that Neil Armstrong passed away.


To hope Snooki doesn’t break her baby. I guess she had it the other day.


To hate that I had to open a non paying buyer case on a grown adult on eBay because she didn’t want to take the responsibility to pay for what she bid on.


To be ready for fall shows to start back up. I feel like I’ve been watching a lot of reality crap throughout the summer.


To not get why celebrities get to go to the front of lines. I read that Tom Cruise and daughter Suri got to cut all the lines at Disneyland. That is not fair. If that happened in front of me, I’d go “boooo!” really loudly. People who should get to cut lines? Teachers and military members.


To have already bought Halloween candy. What? They were already out at the commissary. I couldn’t resist mini Twix/Butterfinger/3 Musketeers bars. I’m only human.


To have a giveaway for an awesome milk gift pack here.

It Is Time to Fly

About the Book:  It's Time to Fly: Daily Devotionals for Families is a book designed for families who want to grow in faith together. Linda C. Davis has written some thought provoking lessons that are simple enough for young family members and yet still have the potential to impact Christians of all ages.  The lessons in the book are based on the contemporary Christian band Ka*Pop’s CD “It’s Time to Fly.” Each song has seven days of family devotionals that center on the message of the song. For example, week four is focused on the song “Deep and Wide” and all the devotions for those seven days relate to the lyrics of “Deep and Wide.”  More information about Ka*Pop and their ministry can be found at www.kapopkit.com

About The Author:  Linda Carruth Davis is a published writer, award winning journalist, musician, artist and CEO of her own company, lcd, ink: communicative arts.   A graduate of Asbury University and Asbury Theological Seminary she holds Masters degrees in Theology and Pastoral Counseling.
It's Time to Fly: Daily Devotionals fro Families is a book designed for families who want to grow in faith together. Linda C. Davis has written some thought provoking lessons that are simple enough for young family members and yet still have the potential to impact Christians of all ages.

About Ka-Pop:  Ka*Pop is made up of three dads from the Nashville area. They love to create music,  movies and games to share with kids and youth across the country. Jesus loves the little children. Right on. They are pop, dance pop, R & B. Bright, intricate vocals over a funky, rock-tinged musical bed.

My Thoughts On The Subject:  This was nothing like I expected it to be.  The lessons were good, I could see where families would possibly enjoy this, it just was not all that for me.  I am a traditional studier of the Bible and like my music a little more spiritual.  I might give this to my son and his family as a gift and then again might not.

Disclaimer: I received this book from the Bet Galley Publishing Group Blogging Program in an exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Library Love

I walked through the doors and a jolt of excitement went through me. I loved it here. I could spend all day here.

I breathed in the wonderful smell of books.

Ahh, libraries.

It was especially peaceful when I didn’t have to take my children with me. I was alone, while they were at school. It meant I could spend hours browsing book titles. Normally if I take the kids with me I feel rushed, worried that one of them will be noisy. I never want to be “that mom with the loud kids” in a library. (It’s happened before. Natalie will start off whispering AND THEN WILL GET LOUDER AND LOUDER.)

I smiled at another woman as she passed. She is one of my people. Someone who also loves libraries. Someone who—oh, she started to look frightened. I guess she’s not used to strangers smiling at her. I swear, I’m not crazy. I just love libraries. Like you! Like—oh, she had a bunch of law books. Maybe she wasn’t there for pleasure. Oops.

I went to the reserve section. I loved how you could reserve books online. An e-mail notification would show up in your inbox when it was available. The book I got was Jennifer Weiner’s newest The Next Best Thing. I promised Tom that I’d try not to buy anymore books for awhile.

Yes, it’s hard.

I have a feeling I’ll be at the library every week now that I actually have time to read.

Anyone else love going to the library?

Milk Unleashed Giveaway! **CLOSED

**CLOSED. Winner posted here**


Milk.

It does a body good.

Problem is, I don’t like milk.

However, my daughter loves it. Well, chocolate milk, that is.

“Can I have some milk with my lunch?” she begged the other day.

Thank goodness there’s Milk Unleashed! It’s a single serving carton of milk that can fit anywhere. Lunch boxes, purses, diaper bags…it’s a shelf safe milk which means it doesn’t even have to be refrigerated. It stays good for up to six months.

Milk Unleashed is offering a lucky reader a prize pack of 4 cartons of shelf safe milk and a gift pack to a lucky reader. You will get a variety pack of milk (white and chocolate) from Hershey’s, Lala, Horizon, and Organic. You will also get a cow stress ball and information on shelf safe milk.

Cool huh? Check out this widget to learn more:




Play games and learn how to make on-the-go snacks!


Giveaway Rules

--Must be 18 or older

--Must live in the US


Mandatory entry

How would you use the milk if you won? Would it be for your child’s lunch? Or snacktime?


Extra Entries:


Follow Milk Unleashed on Twitter


Tweet about the giveaway with the hashtag #MilkUnleashed


Take the quiz on the widget and let me know your results!


For each thing you do, please leave a separate entry!


Winner will be picked on September 2nd.

Project 365 - Week 34

I hate to admit it but I think most of the pictures I took this week were with the camera on my phone.  I am enjoying photo stream.  I wish I had had the time to really get out and shoot Dr. M kinds of pictures this week....but the first few weeks of school truly whip me and it was all I could do to get these shots.  It seemed like everything was this week....no rest for the weary.  I hope you will hop over to Sara's place and check out all the other photographers offerings.  You will be truly amazed at some of the gorgeous shots from all over the world.  Ok....so this is my week in pictures.

Sunday, August 19th

Shower number one was this weekend. My cousin, Ferris is getting married September 15th in Savannah.  I was not invited to the wedding....but was invited to the shower.  This is Kat's present.  She could not attend the shower so I took both of our gifts.  My gift was a holiday serving plate.  The shower was decorated in brown and teal with peacock feathers as the center of attraction.  Ferris's sister Emilly did a wonderful decorating job.  The bride got loads of awesome gifts.  Headed home to get ready for Monday....and students.

 

Monday, August 20th

Gloria and Billy Ray, some of the Rock Mills porch people,  bought an ugly old painted mailbox at an auction back in the spring.  I shot my mouth off and told her I would paint it for her.  So....Monday night I began project destress.  I went out to my korner of the shop and began painting the mailbox.  This is the beginning of the project.  I will have to take a shot of the final project.  I free hand paint....and paint what I see.  FYI...the right side will have a rock and huge red lighthouse on it and the palm tree will have fronds and leaves.  I promise it will look better.  Now that I see this I HOPE it looks better.  I worked in the shop until nearly nine and was so relaxed when I went in for the evening.

 

Tuesday, August 21st

Another day of school down and back out to my korner to work on the mailbox.  Frank was working on Derby South frames for the traveling team.  He is nearly finished.  I thought I would let you see some of the process of this.  They really are pretty frames.  I wish I had had something like this back in my softball playing days. 

 

Wednesday, August 22nd

After school today I ran by Cloud Nine to pick out a gift for shower number three, which is Sunday.  I loved this cross and it was something the bride-to-be had registered for.  I had to have it.  After paying for my gift and heading to Roanoke I stopped at Clark Brothers to get the brunswick stew I was going to have to have for shower number two on Saturday.  It is going to be a first for me....a couples baby shower dinner.  I can't wait to experience this.  I know it will have to be fun.  Anything that involves ribs, brisket, and all the trimmings has to be fun.

 

Thursday, August 23rd

I downloaded Instagram to my Iphone while Frank and I were in Auburn having Endless Shrimp at Red Lobster....at least Frank was having Endless Shrimp.  I took a rather blurry picture to try it out and then played with some of the things you can do to the picture.  I thought I would stop while I was ahead and I really did capture the true essence of Frank.  He was cutting up with our waitress.  This is our last free Thursday night....we start the bowling  process next week.  Sigh!

 

Friday, August 24th

Shower number two is tomorrow and tonight we finished decorating for it.  I went ahead and wrapped my gifts.  The tallest box is an airplane light fixture.  The bag gift is a precious airplane bank from Pottery Barn Kids.  If you can't guess the room is decorated with airplanes.  The baby's name is going to be Jett.  I love it!

 

Saturday, August 25th

 

Shower number two.  The top picture is the dad, mom, and Jamma to be.  Marcie said her eyes were closed but I told her they weren't.  I was wrong.  The gift table was gorgeous and this was just a small sampling of the gifts she got.  I love the vintage bi-plane rocker.  The ladies of our church and community really know how to throw a party.  It was great fun and the men were so funny because this was their very first baby shower.  Loved it.  Hope your week was a good one and I will see you here again Labor Day weekend.

Over The Edge

 

About The Book:  Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he's never been the same. He was always a reckless youth, but now he's gone over the edge. He ran off to the Civil War and came back crazier than ever.  After the war, nearly dead from his injuries, it appears Seth got married. Oh, he's got a lot of excuses, but his wife isn't happy to find out Seth doesn't remember her. Callie has searched, prayed, and worried. Now she's come to the Kincaid family's ranch in Colorado to find her lost husband.  Callie isn't a long-suffering woman. Once she knows her husband is alive, she wants to kill him. She's not even close to forgiving him for abandoning her.  Then more trouble shows up in the form of a secret Seth's pa kept for years. The Kincaid brothers might lose their ranch if they can't sort things out. It's enough to drive a man insane--but somehow it's all making Seth see things more clearly. And now that he knows what he wants, no one better stand in his way.

About The Author:  Mary Connealy writes fun and lively "romantic comedy with cowboys" for the inspirational market. She is the author of the successful Lassoed in Texas, Montana Marriages, and Sophie's Daughters series, and her novel Calico Canyon was nominated for a Christy Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her husband, Ivan, and has four grown daughters.

Think you might want to buy the book?  If so then click here and buy it.  You won't regret it.



What to know what others think about this book then check out the link to the blog tour by following  this link:  http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/13525530/overtheedge

My Thoughts On The Book:  Although I have not read the first two books in the Kincaid Bride series I was instantly drawn to the characters in Mary Connealy's third book in the series.  Seth Kincaid, one of the stories main characters was quite interesting. This man had survived the Civil War and also survived a fire in a cave. Because he had witnessed many terrible things during the years he was away many  of those things were blocked from his memory...  one of them being his wife, Callie.  Callie, is not your typical wife in the 1800.  As the story begins she is in a stagecoach with a pastor and his wife firing at some men who are trying to overtake the coach.  I loved these two characters.  I now have to go back and read the other two books.  Once I started this book i could not put it down.  It was wonderful.

Disclaimer:  I received this book from the Litfuse Publisity Group as part of their Blogging tour in exchange for a fair and impartial review.  I have found a new favorite author! 

 

Joining Five Minute Friday

It is Friday....the end of my first week back at school with kids and time for Lisa-Jo's Five Minute Friday meme.  It is an easy thing to do you just:
1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking on the topic she gives you.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. And then absolutely, no ifs, ands or buts about it, you need to visit the person who linked up before you & encourage them in their comments. Seriously. That is, like, the rule. And the fun. And the heart of this community..
I promise you will love reading what everyone writes about.  It is a great way to help writer's block...which is the reason I joined.  I needed some brainstorming accountability.

OK, are you ready? Please give us your best five minutes on:::

Join

(These are my cousins who came from near and far to join with my dad at his 80th birthday party)

 

Go

Over the years I have joined things.  I like being a part of something...now as an adult.  When I was a teenager I was not so much a joiner.  I was a loner.  I was a member of my church choirs and that was about it.  Now, as an adult I find that joining in can be fun.  I joined facebook because my daughter told me it was something I needed to do.  I am glad I did because many of my high school classmates were also joining and it was a good way to connect with them and see what has been going on in their lives since 1972.  I joined two National Honor Societies in college because I earned the right to join them.  I loved being a part of them and wearing the gold tassles when I graduated.  I joined a teachers sorority when I was in my third year of teaching and loved that for a while.  It was a great way to get with fellow educators and discuss teaching topics.  I went from there to joining the AEA (alabama Education Association) where I became very active and have held several officers.  I joined a church because I love being part of the family of God and in God's house and I love having one I call home.  But, as much as I love joining groups there is another kind of joining I love even more.  I love joining hands with my family as we say the grace before a meal.  I love the feel of hands interlocked (joined).  I love joining my family to celebrate monumental occassions and holidays.  I love joining the faculty, community, fans at BRHS football games and yelling my boys on to victory.  Joining....gathering together of more than one.  Won't you join in with us today?  Have a wonderful weekend.

 

STOP

 

Natalie's First Homework

“Natalie, please come over here.”

“Natalie, no, now is not the time to do a hand stand.”

“Natalie! Stop pretending the crayon is a mustache. Let’s do this!”

She had her first homework assignment. It was not going well. I couldn’t get her to focus on it.

I never remembered homework in Kindergarten. What I recall is naps and petting a ferret. Wait, that’s Kindergarten Cop. But I do remember naps. And coloring. And playing. Not homework.

It wasn’t complicated homework, mind you. She had to draw a picture of herself and her family. Then answer some questions.

“I’m going to give myself green hair. Green hair is fun,” Natalie said, grabbing a crayon from the box.

“Hey, Anne of Green Gables, let’s not. Can you draw a picture of yourself for real?” I asked. I wasn’t sure if the teacher would appreciate green hair. I would imagine so. I mean, it’s KINDERGARTEN. If they expected mini Van Gogh’s, well, sorry.

After ten minutes, Natalie finished coloring herself. When it came time to draw her family, she was rolling along the floor.

“Natalie!” I snapped. “Please finish this.”

“Do you want a hamburger?” she said. She had moved to her play kitchen and had a plastic spatula poised over a tiny saucepan.

“No. I want you to finish this so I can read. Can you draw your family?”

Natalie rolled her eyes at me. “Ugh!” she grumbled. “Ugh! You…MOM!” She grabbed a crayon, plopped down in her seat, and went to work.

She totally drew me a mustache. That was her revenge. Although, honestly, I probably do need a wax. Weirdly, she gave Tom a stethoscope.

Then she had to answer questions.

“What’s your favorite color?” I asked.

“Pink!”

“What’s your favorite TV show?”

“Family Guy!”

Um.

Er.

Yeah. She watches Family Guy sometimes.

“How about you pick another show?” I prompted. I didn’t want to get a phone call from the teacher about it.

“Did you know Family Guy is inappropriate?” the teacher might question. “This explains why Natalie randomly goes giggity.”

“Spongebob!” Natalie tried again.

“Favorite store?”

“Target! Like you!” Natalie shouted.

“You made your Momma proud,” I said as I wrote down the answer.

“Target has toys. And it’s red,” Natalie responded primly.

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

In PreK, she had to answer this question. She picked Rapunzel. I thought she might do the same.

But no.

She was like, “A fairy!”

“How about something like a teacher?” I pressed.

“A FAIRY!” Natalie boomed.

Okay. I wrote that down.

Finally, we were done. Thank goodness. I hope she won’t have a lot of homework.

If she does, her Daddy gets to sit with her the next time.

What I Didn't Say

About the Book:  Getting drunk homecoming night your senior year is never a good idea, but Jake Hayes never expected it all to end with a car crash and a t-post embedded in his throat. His biggest regret about it all? What he never said to Samantha Shay. He's been in love with her for years and never had the guts to tell her. Now it's too late. Because after that night, Jake will never be able to talk again. When Jake returns to his small island home, population 5,000, he'll have to learn how to deal with being mute. He also finds that his family isn't limited to his six brothers and sisters, that sometimes an entire island is watching out for you. And when he gets the chance to spend more time with Samantha, she'll help him learn that not being able to talk isn't the worst thing that could ever happen to you. Maybe, if she'll let him, Jake will finally tell her what he didn't say before, even if he can't actually say it.

About the Author:  Keary Taylor grew up along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains where she started creating imaginary worlds and daring characters who always fell in love. She now resides on a tiny island in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their two young children. She continues to have an overactive imagination that frequently keeps her up at night.  She is the bestselling, Wall Street Journal featured author of BRANDED, FORSAKEN, VINDICATED, AFTERLIFE (Fall of Angels series), EDEN, and WHAT I DIDN'T SAY.  

 

My Thoughts On The Book:  I found the book a bit slow at first.  It seemed like it was a typical American teenage book about partying, drinking, and sports.  It was not until the accident that I found myself hooked.  I could not put this book down and felt as if Jake and Samantha were students I had had in my own classes.  Taylor did an excellent job making her characters life-like and I loved the book.  I hated to see it end.  I would highly recommend this book to anyone.  It definitely sends a powerful message to young people on the results of drinking and driving or riding.
If you would love to see a bit of the book click here and see the book trailer.

 

Disclaimer:  I received this book for free  from Net Galley Publishing Group for a fair and unbiased review.  The opinions you have read here are 100% my own and I appreciate them giving me the chance to review this book for them.

Things That Annoy Me Thursday: Some eBay Buyers

So I listed stuff on eBay.

And naturally, there are people who refuse to PAY for the items they bid on.

Right after my auctions ended, I had one lady go, “I need to cancel my bid. I thought the item was 6-12 years, not months.”

First of all. Why WHY would anyone sell anything as 6-12 YEARS?

Second of all, the photo clearly showed a SMALL outfit.

THIRD of all, I mentioned in my description AGAIN that it was 6-12 MONTHS. (This was also in the title.)

Clearly, she’s lying. She either A) doesn’t have the money or B) bought another outfit and no longer wants this one. So she wants me to cancel.

I’m tempted to not. Why would I be punished because she can’t read properly or doesn’t want to follow the rules?

I still have two auctions that aren’t paid for. Granted, yes, I am polite and in my auctions I state that payment is due within 4 days of the auctions end. I’m too nice. What I SHOULD say is, “Payment is due within 24 hours.” Because hello, why not? If you don’t have the money to pay for an item right away, you probably shouldn’t be bidding on it in the first place.

I sent invoices to both buyers and nothing. Today marks 4 days after my auctions ended so I’ll be opening a non-paying customer case with eBay. Sometimes that gets the buyer to wake up. Other times you get an e-mail saying, “I’m sorry! I don’t have the money! Can you wait?”

NO!

I cannot wait. My auction clearly stated the rules.

I just don’t understand why people don’t use eBay correctly. Some do. I had 4 people pay quickly. Everyone isn’t bad on there.

But the ones who are? Ruin it for everyone.

Hodge Podge Volume 90

Welcome to this week's edition of Joyce's Wednesday Hodgepodge, aka HP90. It's a lot like PX90 except this is a workout for your brain.  Sometimes. Sometimes it's just fluff, but in mid August as summer winds down and the school year gears up fluff may be just what your brain needs. Add your link to the bottom of Joyce's post and then you run off and see the neighbors. It is a lot of fun and you can join in anytime....or just once.  It does not matter. 

 

Here are my answers to Joyce's questions:

 

1. Aloha! On August 21, 1959 Hawaii officially became a US State...have you ever been? Upon arrival would you prefer an orchid or a hibiscus to tuck behind your ear?

I've been. I won a trip in 2005 and tok my best friend Mary for her 50th birthday.  We had a blast and upon arrival I got an orchid and loved it.  Orchids are my favorite flowers.  My mom used to raise them and so did my best friend, Susan's, mom.  I have grown up around orchids forever.  I also got a lei of orchids.  I felt special.  If you have never been to Hawaii....you need to go....and be sure to see the whole thing....and do a luau.....see the Arizon Memorial.  You will be touched.  I promise you.

2. Since we're talking tropical...what's your favorite food or beverage made with pineapple?

My dad's pineapple and cheese casserole and curried pineapple.  I love pineapple...so I had a blast at the Dole Plantation in Hawaii.  I ate so much pineapple I had a rash all over my mouth area.  I looked so funny.

 

Pineapple Cheese Casserole - super easy

Ingredients

1 cup sugar

6 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups grated sharp cheddar

2 (20-ounce) cans pineapple chunks, drained, and 6 tablespoons pineapple juice reserved

 1 cup cracker crumbs (recommended: Ritz)

8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted, plus extra for greasing pan

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a medium-size casserole dish with butter. In a large bowl, stir together the sugar and flour. Gradually stir in the cheese. Add the drained pineapple chunks, and stir until ingredients are well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.  In another medium bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, melted butter, and reserved pineapple juice, stirring with a rubber spatula until evenly blended. Spread crumb mixture on top of pineapple mixture. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

3. Do you believe in soul mates? Explain.

Yes....but not necessarily spouses.  I have two friends that are my soul mates.  We can be apart and then get together and it is like we have never been apart.  We can finish each others sentences.  We know when the other is in trouble or needs something....even when we have not been physically told.  I know both of them as if they were me.  It is amazing and scary sometime.  As far as spousewise....Frank and I have been married for almost ten years and he has become my soulmate too. 

 

4. Share a memory about the house you grew up in.  My house was coral colored and had flowering bushes everywhere.  In the back yard there were fruit trees and I kept a knife and salt shaker outside and would go out back and eat oranges, grapefruits, Japanese plums, tomatoes, mangos, Myeres and Ponderosa lemons....in my own little world under the shade of these trees.  We had two huge ficus trees that were so fun to climb on, swing from, and hide in.  We also had a banyon tree that was an amazing place for a child with an imagination.  I loved my house in Florida and I love my life in that backyard.  Sad thing....the house and neigborhood is gone.  There is no reminder that I existed.  It is now a sports practice field for FAU.  Sigh!

5. Are you comfortable with silence?  I love silence when I want to read or crafting in the shop.  I do not care for silence when it is angry.  When I afraid and alone I prefer white noise.

6. You spot a giant spider on your bedroom wall...what's your next move? Find Frank and get him to take care of the intruder.  If I am alone...get the broom and smash him.  I hate spiders, snakes, roaches, and rats.

 

7. My idea of fun does NOT include_____________.  Hummmm...let me see.  Anything painful, loud mouth people, people fighting, bigots, people who have to always be right....even when they are not.

 

8. Insert your own random thought here. Saturday night I went to a 1962 class reunion....to photograph it for a friend.  They had a classic car exhibit out front and it was a riot to see cars from my past.  So, with that in mind...what was your first car?  Mine was a 1969 Plymouth Satellite.  It was red with a white top, 383 engine, crager mags with knock off spinners.  I loved it!  Tell me about yours.

 

Have a wonderful rest of the week.  I am back in school and really enjoying my year so far.  Ask me again about January.  LOL!

The First Haircut

“What if they cut it all off? Like at the end of Tangled? I need my long hair!”

“I’m just telling them you need a trim,” I explained. “That’s a little bit of hair.” I held my thumb and index finger a little bit apart. “It’s like this much.”

Natalie gripped her hair. “I need it long like Rapunzel. Or I’ll cry.”

I gritted my teeth. I understood her concern but geez. “They won’t cut too much off.”

We headed to SuperCuts—I know I could have taken advantage of the free haircuts at JC Penney that is going on this month but I didn’t want to wait around for an appointment. At SuperCuts you can just walk in.

“Don’t cut a lot off. I need it long like Rapunzel,” Natalie told the hair stylist seriously.

“Of course,” the hair stylist replied, a little taken aback. She probably had taken a look at Natalie and thought, “She looks sweet!” And then after Natalie spoke she probably thought, “And she’s demanding!”
This was Natalie waiting to get her FIRST hair cut:

Yes. It was her FIRST ONE EVER.

I had never taken her because she always loved her long hair so I didn’t see the point. I only took her now because her ends looked dead and yuck.

She did really well.

The results?

Still long! Like Rapunzel.

Testifying to Love

I heard a humorous story of a guy who prayed this prayer every morning: "Lord, if you want me to witness to someone today, please give me a sign to show me who it is." One day he found himself on a bus when a big, burly man sat next to him. The bus was nearly empty but this guy sat next to the man who had prayed the prayer. The timid Christian anxiously waited for his stop so he could exit the bus. But before he could get very nervous about the man next to him, the big guy burst into tears and began to weep. He then cried out with a loud voice, "I need to be saved. I’m a lost sinner and I need the Lord. Won’t somebody tell me how to be saved?" He turned to the Christian and pleaded, "Can you show me how to be saved?" The believer immediately bowed his head and prayed, "Lord, is this a sign?" I laughed at this because of the last comment....he actually had to bow and ask if that was a sign?  That was more than a sign....that was a billboard.  As of yesterday I began 119:11 Project and my first verse was Acts 1:8.  ⁸ Rather, you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”  I made a notecard for memorizing this verse and am praying on it each day for 15 days.  As some of you know my daughter and her husband are going to be missionaries to orphans and I have really struggled with letting her go and letting God do his work with her.  It is funny....I taught her about missions and missionaries all her life....and then when she felt the call to be one....I shouted out in my heart...."NO!  I was talking to everyone else's children....not mine."  But again I came to the realization that she was never mine....she was always His....and I would not have it any other way.  I am proud of them both.  They are a reminder to me that even though I probably won't ever be a missionary in some foreign country....I can do my part in the way I live.  I can witness on a daily basis....and I don't want to have to ask God if this is a sign....when it is like you were hit in the head with a sledge hammer.  So I got up yesterday morning and asked myself.. "Hey, Karen, are you looking for a "sign" to start witnessing?"  I smiled and knew I was....got in my car and headed to work.....on my radio was this song...and I truly believe I am going to Testify to Love!  Have a blessed day!  I know I am going to

Hey, It's Okay Tuesday!

I got this idea from Glamour magazine. They have a section called Hey, It’s Okay and will list a bunch of things to be okay about. You're welcome to join in and do something like this on your blog. Doesn't have to be on a Tuesday either. Just make sure you link up and that the post you link up is a Hey, It's Okay Post.

-----------------

To not get printed denim. They seem to be everywhere. It looks like people are walking around sporting tablecloths. Or curtains.


To like the new Matthew Perry show Go On. They previewed it right after the Olympics and I found it hilarious. It returns for good in the fall. Please watch. I’ll be sad if it’s cancelled.


To have loved going to the library alone when the kids were in school.


To always wonder if on Sex and the City when Miranda married Brady's dad, was her son's name Brady Brady?


To be glad the kids like school. So far.


To love musicals like The Sound of Music and The King and I.


To have seen The Campaign with Tom last Friday. It was hilarious.


To love the fact that my son looks things up in our Encyclopedias instead of jumping on the computer. He wanted to know how to make an early airplane so he looked up how to make one.

119:11 Project

This morning as I was getting ready to start my day I had a forwarded email from one of my sweet friends.  She graduated with my daughter and I adore this precious Christian woman.  It seems a group of some of the Christian faculty and staff are intersted in this project and after reading Kimberly's blog post I know I am.  Her original letter began like this:

"Hey everyone, 

I am trying something this year, and I wanted to let you know about it in case you are interested as well.  As I was thinking of godly women who have influenced my life, you all came to mind.  I want God to plant His word in my heart, and I want to give Him the opportunity to do it through scripture memorization.  I have started a blog about what I am doing to keep me accountable and also to let other people join in if they are interested.  I would love for you to check it out and join in with me if you feel it is right for you at this time in your life!  There is definitely NO PRESSURE!  If you know of someone else that you think might be interested, just forward them this e-mail.  The more the better!  The link is www.hiddeninmyheart.weebly.com.   Hopefully it all makes sense, but if I have been unclear or you have any questions, please let me know.  To all you sweet teachers, I, as well as several other people I am sure, will be praying for you as you touch the lives of the precious children God has put into your care this year.  Hope you have a great first day!" 

In His Grace,  Kimberly. 

So I went to her blog and checked it out and was so touched I had to share it with you.    I truly believe that "God's word is a mighty, powerful force that equips us to be His light in a fallen world.  In Jeremiah 31:33, God speaks about a new covenant that He will make with His people.  He promises, "I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts."  The 119:11 Project is about claiming that promise.  I want God to write His word on my heart, but I know that I have a part in this process as well.  Psalm 119:11 says, "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."  God desires to write His word on my heart more than anything, but I have to give Him the opportunity by meditating on His word.   With the help of the Holy Spirit, I want to plant God's word so deep into my heart that His words become my own."
 

How The 119:11 Project Works

"(First of all, let me give credit where it is due.  The 119:11 Project is modeled off of Beth Moore's scripture memorization team.  You can read more about it on her blog.) 

1.  On every 1st and 15th of the month, I will post a scripture verse that God has used to speak to me on " The 119:11 Project Blog." (See the tab at the top of this page.) 

2.  After my post, I will be meditating on that verse for the next 15 days.  The idea is to do this for one year, and at the end of the year, I will have hidden 24 pieces of God's word deep in my heart.  Now, this is where you come in.

3.  Ecclesiastes 4:12 talks about the power found in a triple-braided cord.  God never meant for us to face this world on our own; that is why He has given us our brothers and sisters in Christ.  I would love for anybody that is willing to join in with me on The 119:11 Project.

4.  If you decide that you want to join in, just post a comment to my original blog (see the tab at the top of this page) and let everyone know the verse, as well as the location in the Bible, you will be meditating on for the next 15 days.  It is helpful to post your translation as well. 

Hints for Memorization

1.  Beth Moore suggests using spiral bound note cards to write down your verses.  One card for each verse.  Spiral bound is great because you  can take them with you everywhere that you go.
2.  Get your family involved.   I started off by speaking my first verse (3 John 1:4) about my daughter and her husband and their new mission venture, she does not even know I am doing this for her. 
3.  You can meditate on your verses ANYWHERE!

Sample Note Card/Post Its
Here is how my first note cards looks:
August 20, 2012

⁸ Rather, you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Acts 1:8
You know I spent my whole life teaching her about missionaries and missions....now I have to let God lead her heart and let her go. 

Thank you for taking the time to check out The 119:11 Project! 

The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all.