books galore . . .

I know, I know . . . three posts in three days: what in the world is going on with me?? But I felt so compelled to share those beautiful sunset photos yesterday and then Sarah reminded me that today was Bibliophile File day (and I did just get a new book in the mail), so again, I felt compelled to share! (Don't worry ... I won't make daily posting a habit!)

I've actually picked up three new-to-me hardcover tea books over the past week . . . 

They just looked like fun.  The tea with friends book by Elizabeth Knight is especially darling with a different themed tea idea for each month, including stories, menus, and tea/favor ideas. I can see that one getting a lot of use!

Over the past two months I've done a LOT of kindle reading.  I thought I'd share a couple of new-to-me authors that I've really enjoyed.  The first would have to be Dan Walsh.  Dan is quite the prolific writer and his books span a very diverse range of genres.  I've not read one yet that didn't draw me into the story quite succinctly. His work is well written and very well researched. These two were part of a suspense series . . .

Action-packed and quite thrilling!  Remembering Dresden was historically fascinating, too.  But now I'm reading a more romantic story, which was co-written by Gary Smalley, and is every bit as good . . .

Walsh has also written several books based around war heroes (both WW2 and Vietnam) which were very good. A few of his books are free through Kindle Unlimited right now, too, if you're a member.

The India Tea Series by Janet MacLeod Trotter was also very well written and a good series of stories.

They're not available on Kindle Unlimited, but I think they're all just $1.99 as ebooks.  Worth it! I was not familiar with England's colonization of India and the history of that, so I've really enjoyed this series.  Plus there's a lot about the growing of tea and the history of the tea plantations. Good stuff.

Another series I read through was the The Hidden Springs Mysteries books by A. H. Gabhart.  Funny story.  When I first read one of Dan Walsh stories, it was a "woman's" story (Keeping Christmas) and I was surprised at how well I resonated with the primary character, an empty nesting mom, since it was a male author. The primary character in the Hidden Springs books is a young man, and I was *sure* that A. H. Gabhart was a man, but I was wrong!

These are terrific mystery/whodunnits and I believe Book 1 is available on Kindle Unlimited.

The last piece of fiction I want to share was The Pelican Brides by Beth White.  This was a fantastic piece of historical fiction, recounting some of the very early settling and history of the state of Louisiana. There really was a ship called The Pelican that brought 'brides' over from France, to help *settle* the French-occupied territory. As are all of the above works of fiction, this was a faith-based book and a very enjoyable read.  Oh! And before I forget -- it's a kindle FREEBIE right now; grab it while you can!

Finally, I decided to walk through the season of Lent with this beautifully written devotional by Alicia Britt Chole, 40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.  I've really enjoyed these daily devotionals, the insight into the actual church history of the season of Lent, and the opportunities to fast from 'traditions" or "pre-conceived religious notions" that don't exactly fit into the theology of Christ; man-made junk.  Good, good stuff!

So, there you have it!  I'll settle down for the remainder of the week -- but if you're in the market for a good read, here are lots of choices!  Check out what others are reading over at sarah did it!

:)

a review -- the berestain bears' easter blessings

The Berenstain Bears family have been a favorite of *our* family for a very long time. Both of my children enjoyed them immensely, and I loved the way the Bears' stories reinforced the values that we worked so hard to instill in our children. 

So when I saw The Berenstain Bears' Easter Blessings by Mike Berenstain, available for review by Worthy Publishing, I knew I wanted to read it and share it with grandchildren, too!

I was not disappointed. This sweet little board book is filled with color and perfect to be held and 'loved' by little hands.  The easy-to-turn pages are a plus, too!  The happy characters come to life on the page, as Easter morning unfolds in their home.  

The children are really excited when grandparents come by with Easter baskets filled with goodies . . . but the adults are quick to point out that Easter is more than candy . . . 

It's about being aware of all of your blessings, the greatest blessing being that of a risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

I've enjoyed reading this to Ellie and Evey . . . and especially hearing Ellie read it back to me! If you're wanting to put something in the ol' Easter basket that has substance and meaning, this will be a definite hit!

Linking this up to the Bibliophile Files over at sarah did it!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Worthy
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

books galore . . .

Whenever there's a new month (rabbit, rabbit), a Bibliophile Files post is sure to turn up! Seeing as how the linky party over at sarah did it! is on the first Tuesday of every month, that is!

A New Year generally equals a new reading challenge, but I decided I didn't want to necessarily go there in 2016.  I'm going to go with the book flow and be all loosey-goosey!

That being said (there's always a caveat, isn't there?!), our church is reading through the Bible together in 2016, with a suggested reading plan, and I am taking *that* challenge! In addition to that, this month I've got the following reads on my 'book plate' . . .

Count It All Joy by Dr. David Jeremiah.  Rather appropriate, don't you think? I've been an admirer of Dr. Jeremiah's works for many years. Though this book is based on the book of Philippians, rather than the specific passage from James that admonishes us to, "count it all joy", I'm still positive that it will prove a worthy and challenging book. This read is for a review, so I'll be sharing my thoughts on it later this month. The title releases on February 1.

I shared that Todd had given me Victoria The Essential Tea Companion: Favorite Recipes for Tea Parties and Celebrations by Kim Waller for Christmas. I'll continue to page through it this month as we prepare for a BIG tea party event next month!

In keeping with the *tea* theme, I've got a new kindle read: Relaxing Over Afternoon Tea (Abbey Cooks Entertain) (Volume 3) by Pamela J. Foster of Downton Abbey Cooks (blog) fame! The book is filled with lovely tidbits and recipes and tea necessities! A great book for musing over a cup of tea!! Downton Abbey fans will love this book (and her blog, too).

And finally, for this month, I will faithfully pour over my January/February TeaTime Magazine. This is my all-time favorite magazine! This month features a story about Downton Abbey, a Valentine's tea party, the history of Bigelow tea (which was an interesting read) and many other fascinating items (as well as loads of beautiful tea ware and china pictures). Another afternoon read to pair with a cup of hot tea!

So, that's enough it for me!  What are you reading this month?  Any reading challenges for the New Year? Be sure to stop by Sarah's blog to see what she and everyone else are reading!!

:)

a review -- the sparkle box . . .

When Worthy Publishing contacted me with an opportunity to review a children's Christmas book, I jumped on the opportunity.  Being a lover of all things Christmas . . . especially when they're faith-based . . . I  looked forward to reading the story and determining if it was indeed a 'grandchildren' worthy tale.  In the case of The Sparkle Box, I was not just not disappointed, I was thrilled!

The Sparkle Box, written by Jill Hardie and beautifully illustrated by Christine Kornacki, grabbed my heart with the first read.  I sat in my car in the post office parking lot after receiving it--I couldn't even wait to get home--and as I read through it, I knew this was a story I wanted to share with my grandchildren.  This was a story I could see becoming an annual read for their families and a beloved part of our Christmas season's traditions.  The message -- that when we do for those less fortunate than ourselves, we do for Jesus -- is timeless and integral to the spirit of Christmas!

The true test came as I presented the book to granddaughter Ellie, on Thanksgiving.  She loved having it read to her and was as intrigued by the pretty "sparkle box" as was Sam, the story's main character! They've already put their sparkle box (which came with the book) together!

While I was gifted a copy in exchange for my honest review, I purchased a second copy of The Sparkle Box, so that *all* of my grandchildren could enjoy the story! 

I plan on purchasing a third copy to keep at my house -- it was that darling!

I highly recommend this book . . . it should become a Christmas classic. It's wonderfully written, the illustrations are gorgeous, and it touches the heart.  Five stars and two thumbs up!

Joining the "Bibliophile Files" linky party at sarah did it!

:)

words aren't made, they grow . . .

I weep so forlornly when I consider the number of days that have passed since I've taken to my keyboard and "waxed eloquently" on the pages of my electronic journal . . .

Can you tell I'm (re)reading Anne of Green Gables right now??!  LOL! The post title is an Anne Shirley quote, too. I do love that cheeky little wordsmith! And since I'm reporting for Bibliophile Files, I thought it only fitting to kick it off that way. The sentiment is true, just a little more "fluffed" than I'd typically write it!

So, I'd downloaded the Anne of Green Gables Stories, which includes all but two of the series (Anne of Windy Poplars and  Anne of Ingleside, which are still under copyright, so I downloaded them separately) and have never got around to them. With a week of vacation stretching out ahead of me (that includes some long flying time), I decided the time was now!

I also downloaded Laura Child's Agony of the Leaves 'tea shop mystery' for a little diversity!  Her reads are such fun -- and I always glean such great recipes! Haha!

And I'll just admit it, I'm a big fan of ereaderiq.com, and visit it weekly to check out their kindle freebies.  This is what my email looked like yesterday afternoon:

They're free and I store them on icloud, so no harm done, right?  Talk about cheeky . . . !

I did finish my crazy patchwork pumpkin . . .

Isn't it darling?  I will enjoy putting it out in the proper timing.  In the meantime, I continue to coax our volunteer pumpkin plant to put forth a pumpkin (yes, I'd settle for ONE)!

I read that a pumpkin plants flowers first with male flowers, and then flowers out with female flowers.  And you can tell the difference because female flowers have a tiny pumpkin at the base! I'm still waiting for a female flower.

The grands are all doing well and enjoying summer fun!  I love my Monday evenings with the Panter crew . . .

(Shown here minus the youngest, who was already in bed.) They are such loves! Ellie had the opportunity to be a flower girl at her Aunt Jenna's wedding, and June came along for the ride (and the wedding cake). 

They both had such a blast on the dance floor -- and were definitely a joy to watch!

Still puttering away on my Tea for One pieces.  I've finished outlining the letters and am working on the cup and saucer.  

Not sure yet what I'm going to do with the flowers yet.  I want to do something with a little 'bling' to it.  Whether that will end up being metallic floss or beading, I haven't decided!

Caught a great shot of some of my favorite yellow wildflowers and a winged friend in the upper meadow of the camp . . . 

I shared it on instagram and facebook, but it's such a pretty photo, I wanted to share it here, too!  I also caught this really pretty sunrise photo, coming down the road outside the camp, heading to work one morning . . .

Originally there was a cell phone tower and a car in the picture, but I photo-shopped them out. Turned out pretty good, if I do say so myself!

Linking up today to the Bibliophile Files on sarah did it! and WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays on Esther's Blog.  Happy Wednesday!!

:)

wishy washy weather . . .

Can you believe the above?  That was from Wednesday. The official high that day was 77 degrees.  The official low was 27 degrees. Today is March 6th and there is ice all over the place. Tomorrow our high is 55 degrees. Aye yi yi! How is it that this is the deep south??

Speaking of early in March . . . Tuesday was Bibliophile Files day and I missed it. I am doing some reading this month, along with my morning quiet time reading that's a yearly goal.  This month I'm reading a Bethany Publishers book for review.  Beverly Lewis's The Love Letters, to be specific.  I've actually started that one and so far it's quite intriguing!

I've also checked out a library book to read. It's the second novel of the Mrs. Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children series, Hollow City by Ransom Riggs.  The first book of the series was fascinating -- kind of fantasy/intrigue/historical fiction -- so I'm looking forward to reading the second.

And the third book is How Sweet the Sound, by Amy K. Sorrells.  I actually downloaded this as a freebie on Amazon for my kindle. It's free through today, I believe, if you want to check it out on Amazon.

UPDATED:  I just saw on my favorite tea blog, Tea with Friends that Amazon is offering another Kindle freebie:  Jesus, Me, & Afternoon Tea, by D. L. Stalnaker. I don't know how long it will be available, but *I'm* sure going to add it to my reading list for the month!! Doesn't the cover just appeal to you all that are tea drinkers?? I can't wait to download it and 'flip' through the pages. I think I've got a little bit of Earl Grey and lavender tea that would be the perfect brew accompaniment to an afternoon read.  :)

The positive side of ice storms in March is an unexpected day off . . . which meant I got in some more nook time!  I printed off the photo for the back of my Kentucky Crossroads block and got it bordered . . .

And then sandwiched the front and back together and choose a quilting design (at least for the center of the block). 

You probably can't quite make out the markings on the piece, so I'll make it easier . . .

I liked this design because the points traveled nicely up the length of the 'crossroads'.  I'll do something scrolly in the red portions, and then probably outline stitch all the way around in the light border, just off the red.  The binding will be the darker blue.  Should be a pretty little finish to put in the mini quilt stand!

So that's it for me. Tomorrow we're headed out to spend the evening with the collective families, celebrating the first of our family's March birthdays . . . my Jocey! Happy Friday, Happy weekend!!

:)

that tuesday . . .

I can hardly believe it's February already . . . and the first *Tuesday* in February to boot, which means it's Bibliophile Files day!! That means it's the day that I share with you what I've got on my bookshelf for the coming month, yay!

Along with the devotional reading I talked about last month, which I'll be reading through all year long, I've got a good mix of fiction and non-fiction that I'm going to enjoy this month, three of which I'll also be reading to review.  The first up is The Friendships of Women by Dee Brestin.  I snapped this up from Amazon yesterday as a kindle freebie!  It's still showing as a freebie for now, so if it sounds interesting, you might want to scoot on over there by clicking HERE! As a woman who not only enjoys her friendships with other women, but is also called to women's ministry, I thought this was a no-brainer for me!

Next up is Patsy Clairmont's You Are More Than You Know.  I first learned of Patsy Clairmont at a Women of Faith conference in 1998.  She was funny and witty and spot-on in her observations, and I'm not only looking forward to reading You Are More Than You Know, but reviewing it and participating in the book's blog tour in March! (And ... hint, hint ... a giveaway!)

And now on to the fiction.  You may or may not have picked up on the fact that I adore, in particular, Amish fiction. Well, if you hadn't picked up on it, this month it's rather 'plain' (pun intended)!  These three selections are all reviewable (so look for more on each title later this month):

An Amish Cradle, a collection of four stories by Beth Wiseman, Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Vannetta Chapman, respectively.  

Then on to The Amish Clockmaker, by Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner.

And finally, The Beekeeper's Son, by Kelly Irvin, which I'm purposefully saving until last because it sounds *so* interesting!

So, my proverbial shelf is full . . . looking forward to reading (and sharing reviews, too) through February! Hop on over to sarah did it! to see what she's reading and to check out the Bibliophile Files linky party!

Happy reading and remember . . . “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” ― Charles William Eliot

:)

reading thru the new year . . .

It's the first Tuesday of the month.  That means it's Bibliophile File day! Hurrah!

Last year I set up a challenge for myself to read four different types of books each month. I'd choose a book that had been recommended, a book I'd borrowed from the lending library (physically or digitally), a book to review (blogging for books), and a book that was a faith/walk strengthener.  I did fairly well through the year and even typically managed to throw an extra couple of books in there a month.  For example, during the month of December, I threw caution to the wind and devoured about eight Melody Carlson Christmas stories, in addition to some other fluffy, Christian Christmas-themed tales.

I have no desire to set any particular challenge this year, but I have already picked four books to read throughout the year and I thought I'd share those for this first BF linky party of the year!

These are the devotionals/daily readings I've selected for 2015.  The first is Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence, by Sarah Young. I'm familiar with this one -- I've had the app and two of my sisters have the devo. It's filled with short but stout daily readings that have already this year pierced my heart.  

The second one is called Designed for Devotion:  A 365-Day Journey from Genesis to Revelation, by Dianne Neal Matthews. This one is also filled with shorter daily readings designed to set focus on God in all His glory and invite personal relationship with Him, why relating His story as told in Scripture, from beginning to end!

The third one is already such fun -- this one is Women of the Bible: A One-Year Devotional Study of Women in Scripture, by Ann Spangler and Jean E. Syswerda.  Oh my goodness -- fifty-two women from God's word . . . the good and the bad . . . the pure of heart and the evil . . . and what we can learn from them!  Because this is weekly studies, I started this one last Monday, so I'm actually into week two.  Eve was our first subject and Sarai is this week's focus.  I can already tell that this one is going to be GREAT!

And finally, the challenge of the four, Reading God's Story: A Chronological Daily Bible, by George H. Guthrie.  Don't get me wrong -- Guthrie didn't write the Bible -- it's actually the Holman translation.  What Guthrie wrote was the introductions of each week's readings and the act and plot summaries.  It's fascinating reading as he has the reader reading God's work in the order in which it took place, historically.  I've already had understanding of Scripture that I'd never put together before. It's the meat of my reading and it's a great way to read through the entirety of Scripture in a year's time.

And then, just for fun (and girls do need their fun), I'm also doing a little light reading . . . If Teapots Could Talk, by Gloria Hander Lyons. This one is filled with "fun ideas for tea parties"!  Hmmm . . . who could I have tea parties with?! It's got some nice recipes and I love tea party themes and there are plenty of those, as well. I'll get some good use from this one, I'm sure!

Anyway, that's it for me for this month.  Head on over to sarah did it! to see what has others turning pages!

:)