Awakening Wonder by Sally Clarkson

 Awakening Wonder by Sally Clarkson is a book about her journey through the homeschool years and her very accomplished four children. In Awakening Wonder,  Sally shares tips and ideas that she used during homeschool journey of her children. As I said all of her children are very accomplished. I had never read anything by Sally so I was very excited to read this book.

 I must say it was a rather unusual book to read, because Sally focuses on many idealistic opportunities. I’m not sure how many are realistic. If you are looking for a book for the average family or homeschool family this book might not be for you. Sally seems to come out rather strong with her perceptions and concerns against public school or anything other than homeschooling. Honestly I was a little put off by her narrow focus. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review which I was happy to do.

Reach Out Gather In by Karen Ehman

Reach Out Gather In by Karen Ehman is a book of 40 days to opening your heart and home, but it's SO much more! I have loved Karen's work and enjoy reading her books. I have also read many books on hospitality but found that Reach Out Gather In is so much more!

Reach Out Gather In is set up to be read as one devotional per day. I, however, was so moved by the book I read it continuously.  There is a space for journaling along the way, as well as part Bible study depending on the day.  Karen also shares the gift of her famous recipes throughout the book.  Karen shares many of her personal stories as well. This book is real and offers inspiration for women today.  

I found that this book also challenged me in an unexpected way.  It challenged me to think about my goals, dreams and aspirations.  I confess, I was not expecting that from a book about hospitality! That's what the book is so much more.  I highly recommend this book, not only for personal reflection, inspiration, Bible study and ideas, but also as a gift for anyone who may want to explore those same ideas. I also quickly found myself highlighting and starring ideas in the book! 

I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do.  I highly recommend Reach Out Gather In. This book is a gem!

Point of Danger by Irene Hannon

 Point of Danger by Irene Hannon is a gripping novel of Eve Reilly, conservative radio host.  Eve is finds herself in an unusual set of circumstances as she has recently been threatened by a bomb.  Law enforcement sends over a new detective, Brent.  Brent grows concerned for Eve as the story develops, both as a detective and a friend, or maybe even more?  Eve realizes that she is also connecting with Brent in a deeper way, something her sisters pick up on as well. Who is out to get Eve? Will the police be able to stop the threats or worse a real attack? Why threaten this conservative talk show host?

Point of Danger is a thrilling novel that will keep you hooked. It is enjoyable and the characters are fun to follow, and may just touch on a bit of real life today! I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do!

Prevail by Susie Larson

Prevail by Susie Larson is a wonderful resource and encouragement. This 365 day devotional offers a scripture verse, a paragraph or two of insight, a portion of the Bible to read (just the scripture reference, not included), thought provoking questions and a brief prayer.  The scripture to read is either a chapter or less. There are many topics covered in the devotional. At the beginning there is a list of all topics and days that they are covered.

This devotional provides encouragement for women and biblical insight. It is a fabulous resource and would make a great gift. If you are looking for encouragement on a bar idea topics I would recommend picking up Prevail. 

I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. I would recommend this book. I was happy to review it.

Until I Met You by Tari Faris

Until I Met You by Tari Faris is part of the Restoring Heritage Series. Libby arrives in town as the new librarian. She comes with a past that is difficult and has many hurts to overcome. All the sudden, she meets this rude Austin Williams, who is  working on the town square project. Brandon, the local pastor,  is Austin's brother. Why don't Brandon and Austin get along? What happened in their past that is so difficult to overcome? Fortunately Libby finds Olivia as her new roommate. But why does Brandon keep Olivia at arm's length?

I did enjoy this story, but do need to mention that sometimes the characters were confusing.  I would have liked to see a character list at the beginning.  There are several other books in this series. I think reading the first few would have helped me understand the story as well.  All in all, it was enjoyable and I would recommend this book.  I was given a free copy for my honest review!  

Something Worth Doing

Something Worth Doing by Jane Kirkpatrick is the telling tale is Abigail Jane Scott Duniway.  Abigail (sometimes called Jenny) is the well know women’s rights suffragist.  Abigail worked with Susan B. Anthony and many others. 

While fiction, Something Worth Doing, features many accurate and true details of Abigail’s life. This book does add some creativity to the story. It was very informative and interesting to learn the history of Abigail’s  life. 

This book does go in spirts of  sharing  Abigail’s daily life and then moving along a number of years to another event.  I did enjoy this story and would recommend especially for those who want to learn more about the history of women’s rights. 

I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review which I was happy to do. 

The Prayer Map Devotional

The Prayer Map Devotional 28 Weeks of Inspired Reading is a beautiful gift devotional book. This book is also a great resource for your own prayer journey.  The Prayer Map Devotional features a weekly fill in for things you are thankful for, things you are worried about, who you are praying for, what's happening in my life, needs and other things on the your heart.  There are then five readings, Monday through Friday to go along with each week.  I appreciate the use of scripture throughout the journal.

This book also features a ribbon bookmark and would make a great gift for a special woman.  The floral and butterfly illustrations add to the beauty of the book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.  But I would recommend this book!

How Was Your Day?

Ever ask your child, "how was your day?" Especially the very first day of school? When you want to know ALL about it? And all your child says, is "good".  Or "fine". 

Well, I was tired of it and wanted to know more! So, I created a family friendly contest to help my husband and I out!

Now, this will work better with kids who can text, BUT you would always make this a paper and pencil project! (Get creative!)

Every first day of school or first day of the semester,  I send out a text in our family group text.  I tell the kids that I am the unfair judge. They will get money if they participate (hey, we all need an incentive). The more they send, or more creative, the more favorable I will be!

We have gotten everything from selfies with the principal, to videos about their day, to most importantly, details we would have never known had I not asked for this/held this contest.

My husband and I are always amazed at what our kids will share and since we've been doing this it has been a joy to hear these details!  We usually do this the first day of the school year and the first day of the second semester (works for college kids too!)  Make sure you put a deadline.  

Well, Girl by Jami Amerine

Well, Girl by Jami Amerine is an interesting read. Jami takes us through her journey of self esteem, blame, shame and finally acceptance.  Jami shares her story in a passionate and heartfelt way.  Jami does not share a "tell all" diet, but instead, shares her journey throughout the years, which has included many diets, the blame game, and ultimately healing.

I had never read anything by Jami and did find this book interesting. It was a little all over the place as far as topic, even sharing added material after under revision in the publishing process.  I do think many women will relate to this book and it's content.  This is not just for women who struggle with their weight, but rather all women on acceptance and knowing their identity in Christ.

I found Jami's story interesting. I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Stand All the Way Up Burn It All Down by Sophie Hudson

 Stand All the Way Up: Stories of Staying In It When You Want to Burn It All Down by Sophie Hudson is a great collection of stories written by famous author, better known as BooMama.  Although I had never read anything by BooMama, I did enjoy this book.  Sophie shares stories and humor and tends to "tell it like it is"!

Each chapter features a different topic of encouragement shared by Sophie. She tackles such ideas as friendships, racism, parenting, working and many other aspects of life.  Sophie also takes a hard look at racism and much that is going on in the world today. Sophie tends to share in a relatable and enjoyable way. 

I did enjoy this book and would recommend it. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do!