NIV Understand the Faith Study Bible

I don't think one can ever have too many Bibles. Especially if you like to view the differences in the variations of stylings from ESV to KJV. Also, if you are a note taker and highlighter like me, then you need to have 5,000,000 bibles :)

Some of the feature of this Bible that I really like are the chapters are marked in red to make it a little easier to find them when you are searching. Also the Faith devotions offer stories to help us see God's nature, the Culture Connections articles highlight customs, holidays, stories from around the world, the Living Parables commentaries demonstrate how contributions of past Christians remain important today, and the Doctrine 101 articles explore doctrines that have become the bedrock for the Christian belief. I think these are great feature to help explore and dig deeper into yourself and see God in different light. It's a great educational tool, from the person exploring Christianity to the Christ-centered person finding deeper connections with God.

Freehand Figure Drawing

I love to draw. I'm not a trained artist by any means, but I love to do charcoal portraits in my spare time.

This book had a lot of great features and step by step instructions. I'm also a very big visual learner and this book had a lot of drawings to explain what the process was. I will be able to look at drawing in a different light and pick up a few new techniques to better expand my drawing expertise- even if it is only for myself :)

instant happy journal

Do you like to journal? Do you run out of ideas to be "grateful" for?

This little book is great for those kind of days. You don't need to go in order, page-by-page. Feel free to jump around and randomly pick a prompt and start writing.

Some examples of daily prompts are:
*What's your favorite activity to do? Why?
*Be intentional. Don't scatter your energy on fear and regret. How can you aim your energy at what you want?
*Don't let other people write your life story for you. Write how you want your life story to go. Try a chapter or two now.
*NC-17. Write something naughty here.

The pages are fun and colorful. One thing I don't particularly like is the limited amount of space you have to write. I have a tendency to write on and on and 10 short little lines won't cut it for me.

Overall, I think the prompts are great and for someone that has writer block or just starting journaling this would be a great opener.

A Reluctant Bride

I have read other Amish books by other authors and A Reluctant Bride was quite a surprise. What an amazing book. I was captured right from the start. This story is one that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat pondering what in the world could possibly happen next! It is a story of faith, trust, love, heartache, forgiveness and of the past.The issues in this story will surely tug on your heart. 

The Power of Surrender

I'm all for learning about how to manage my life and live it fully.

I read "The Ecstasy of Surrender" before by Judity Orloff, M.D., and really enjoyed it.

I should have read the cover of the book a little more closely.

I started reading this book, realizing that it seemed very similar to the previous book about surrender I read by Judith. I did a Good Reads search, and low and behold the ISBN was the same as the previous book. Here I look at the book title and on the very bottom in small print:

"Previously published as The Ecstasy of Surrender".

Oops.

Shades of Doon

Well...I may be a 30-something adult female...

But there are times you can't resist YA fiction.

I flew through the first two books when I got them and I and I (not-so) eagerly awaited the arrival of the third book. Again, I read through the other two to make sure I remembered everything that happened in the previous two.

Shades of Doon did not disappoint. We continue on with Vee and Kenna, and their two Scottish princes, Jamie and Duncan. Vee is continuing her reign as Queen when some strange things begin to happen in the Kingdom.

For some reason, I still picture Duncan to look like Kellan Lutz. Strange, I know. Anyway, looking over the cliche teenage "speak" that the girls (mostly Kenna, since I vision her to be a little less mature than Vee), it's easy to get sucked up into the story again.

If you look for an easy read, like I do when I need to "relax" my brain, this adventure continues to be a great one. Looking forward to my next Scottish "visit" in 2016 when the series concludes.

Lazarus Awakening Book Review

I was able to receive the Study Guide/DVD for this book and I really enjoyed it. I was able to read through the book now. The Study Guide and DVD were excellent on their own but they were better understood while being able to read this book. It brought my thoughts on life to a whole new level and I will definitely be doing it again.

NIV Teen Study Bible- Girls: Growing in Faith, Hope, and Love

I love getting Bibles. One can never have too many, especially when you are jotting notes down all the time. Over time though, it can be hard to review it, when you've read the same thing over and over again.

What I like about this Bible, is that it is geared to the young girl. The book includes, Book introductions, character profiles of the women of the Bible, daily reading geared specifically for teen girls by popular Christian Author/sArtist, Concordance, and highlight verses for promises from God.

Even though this Bible is geared towards teen girls, as a thirty-something woman, I found that a lot of the extra "goodies" tucked in between God's Promises, was well worth the wait on receiving this.

Lazarus Awakening

Awhile back, I was given the book, "A Mary's Heart in a Martha World" from Joanna Weaver, from a friend because I was struggling with some very uneasy feelings in my heart and no matter how I prayed about it, they wouldn't seem to go away. I loved that book.

When I was given the chance to receive a copy of the Lazarus Awakening Study Pack from Blogging for Books, I was excited.

The Study Guide is very well put together and is usable for either personal/single study or group study in eight week sessions that are easy to follow. I decided to give it a go on a personal study level first.

The bundle does not include the actual Lazarus Awakening book, and at first I was concerned that I would need the book to go along with it. I started the first week and felt that it was not necessary to have the book to work with the companion study guide,  but I think it might explain things a lot better if you had that as well. 

Each chapter has a short lesson and then a Bible verse to memorize. Then there is a section called "Word Time" which is a one-page tidbit on applying the Bible to our lives and ways to understand it better. Next is "Israel Moment" which describes a little bit of life in Bible times. After this, there are a few reflection questions, and then the actual study where you will use your Bible to look up answers to the questions. The chapter closes with a "Who I am in Christ" statement and another video clip.The DVD is filmed in Israel with exquisite scenery that brings you into the moment, without distracting from the teaching.

I would recommend anyone to read this, study this, and be embraced by this. 

7 Secrets to an Awesome Marrigae

7 Secrets...

I am not currently in a marriage, or a relationship for that matter, but it does not hurt to learn about how a marriage should work, right?

I was hoping the best for this book. To me, it felt like all the other "self-help" marriage books out there, just broken up into 7 different categories. I didn't feel like there were any secrets that have not already been discovered by other authors, or the Great Author himself.

This is just my humble opinion.

Second Street Nation Review

I like reading all sorts of books. I like reading historical fiction...as long as it is historically accurate. I had a hard time getting through Second Street Nation because Mary Hadley is a modern woman in 1888, however her vulgar language reminds me that of a woman of the 21st century or a poorer ranking woman in the 19th century. She also lives in a one bedroom apartment with running water (she turns the faucet on to soothe a burn while cooking). I don't remember there being running water in an apartment, especially that of a bad side of a town.

I really wanted to like this book considering this is Lawrence Levy's first novel. However, do to the discrepancies, it was difficult for me to get through without making some sort of comment every few sentences.

The Good, The Bad, and the Grace of God

I was never really a fan of Duck Dynasty. I did, however, admire their faith in God and willingness to share it. Especially being on television where religious views aren't always openly accepted. It was a breath of fresh air to read this and learn about the family behind the popular television show. I have a new found respsect for the Robertson clan.

Jep Roberston, the youngest member of the Dynasty family, and his wife, Jessica, open up about their marriage, their family, and their faith in God. Most biographies I've read have been very "on the surface", but the Robertson's were not afraid to open up about their lives. It's a quick read, and anyone would learn something about themselves.

Infuse (Oil, Spirit, Water)

For awhile now, I've wanted to learn how to infuse olive oil. It all started when I made a stop at a friend's house. We decided to have a salad along side dinner and she told me she got a bottle of Lemon Infused Olive Oil to try, so we decided to put it over the luscious greens. I was in Heaven.

Along came infuse. I was blown away by the different varieties of recipes for the oil, spirits, and water. I got excited when I read them because I wanted to try a lot of them. Now, some of them are super easy and only take a few hours to maybe a day to do. Some..take a little longer (we're talking weeks here, people). I haven't tried those yet.

My only downfall with this book is the fact that they have a special lid to use for a lot of them. Since they are made in mason jars (and I have 5 kazillion of them because I drink out of them like they are going out of style), I would have to purchase the lid. Or, I could cheat and use other containers that had the shaker lids. I haven't personally made any of the recipes yet, but I borrowed the book to a friend of mine that does a lot of her own mixed drinks. She said the recipes were really easy and easy to follow. She also mentioned that the pictures alone were making her hungry (or thirsty).

Looking forward to trying a lot of these myself and contiuing on my journey with being all domestic-y and making things myself instead of buying into Big Box America.

*NOTE* I received this book in return for an honest review for Blogging for Books. The views in this blog are my own personal opinions on product. I am not receiving any compensation for my reviews. 

James: Faith Becomes Real

This has been an interesting journey through James for me. Each chapter of James is broken down into multiple devotions that are a quick easy read, yet at the same time intriguingly profound. James is spelled out in a way that is easy to understand and brings events into today's life. At the end of each devotion, are a couple questions to ponder on from the reading that you just finished. Some of those questions really dig deep into the soul and stick with you all day long, reminding you of what you just read. Even though the questions may be simple, it's the Holy Spirit that is pulling at your heart and helping you connect to the Word in ways you never have, even if you've read the words over and over.

The Sprouted Kitchen: Bowl + Spoon

I love food. I love cooking food. I love looking for new recipes, especially since I have started to eat a lot more clean.

I've never visited the Sprouted Kitchen before, until recently  when I found a recipe for Sprouted Bread. Then I happened to see this on Blogging for Books. You can never have too many cookbooks or recipes right??

When I first flipped through the book, I was starting to drool just from looking at the pictures. So, I immediately decided to sit down and take a closer look. Sara does a good job letting you know what kind of "staples" you'll need in order to do the recipes. It's mostly the basic kind of things from utensils to use and things to stock your pantry with, which most of the stuff I have already.

Most of the recipes seem very easy. There are a lot of new names, at least for me, of different kinds of recipes and items used in them. Some I think might be hard to find. Most of the stuff I can either find at my local grocer, farmer's market, or health/ whole food store. There is a great variety of things to try that will suit almost everyone's taste buds.

While I haven't tried all the recipes in the book, I did make a couple of them. I made the Golden Quinoa and Butternut Breakfast Bowl (two of my favorite things: quinoa and butternut squash). I had most of the things on hand already and just needed to pick up a couple things that I didn't have. The recipe instructions were very easy to follow and it was so tasty I probably could eat this every day for every meal.

I'm looking forward to trying my hand at making the ricotta cheese with goat's milk (while I know that COW milk is VERY BAD for you, I am not sure on goat milk, but I CANNOT give up my ricotta cheese, which I eat straight from the carton, or with fruit, or in massive amounts in my lasagna. So if I can do a healthier version, then so be it!

I would recommend this book to anyone that loves food and loves to cook.

**NOTE** I received this book from Blogging for Books (.org) in return for my honest review of the product.

Just Add Watercolor...

I love art. I recently revisited watercolor as a medium to learn to paint with. I was so happy when I saw this book from Helen Birch was available for review from Blogging For Books.

This pint size book has over 200 watercolor pictures from different artists, incorporating different styles and mediums. In the beginning is a contents of thumbnail size images along with the page that they are on. On the opposite page there is a description of what kind of watercolor it is, a summary of the artist/painting, and a tidbit to help a budding artist.

This book is small, but it is packed with information for those that like to look at art, those looking to explore a new medium, those looking for inspiration, and those that just simply need a gift for an artist friend/family member.

I enjoyed looking through it and I will be keeping it on my coffee table and art desk for inspiration.

**NOTE: I received this book in return for my honest review from Blogging for Books.**

Hot Body Year Round

When I got the email that Blogging for Books was having copies of Cassey Ho's "Hot Body Year Round", I literally leaped for joy. I scambled to get on the website because I knew that this book would fly quick for reviwers. I got there just in time. There were TWO (!!!) left!

If you haven't yet checked out Blogilates, you really need to. Or first, ready Cassey's book. She is the founder of Blogilates.

I have been a fan of Blogilates for a couple years now. I've done the exercises, tried the recipes, and have smiled from ear-to-ear from Cassey's positive affirmations. Her workouts can be INTENSE, but when you do them, it feels like there is a friend with you because she is burning hard, laughing, sharing stories, and constantly encouraging you as you do the video when you feel like giving up.

This book is PACKED full of that same information. The exercises are easy to follow with colorful pictures of beautiful outdoor scenes. The recipes are easy, healthy and fun. And of course, you get to learn how Blogilates came to life with Cassey's honest story.

When you are on the go, and don't feel like loggingin on to a computer, this book has everything the website has at your fingertips. I highly recommend it.

**I received this book for free in response to my honest opinion for Blogging for Books. **

Henry Hodges Needs A Friend

I don't believe that I've posted a kid's book in a very long time. Let me just say what a nice little "retreat" it was to get away and let my brain just relax for a little bit.

Henry Hodges Needs a Friend is a short story by Andy Andrews. It's about a lonely boy who ends up looking for a friend. His parents decide that he doesn't need a human friend, but a pet. Not just any pet though; a one-of-a-kind pet. The majority of the book is Henry thinking about all the possible silly animals that he could find.

The illustrations are vibrant. The text is easy to read, even for a beginner reader and would make a great learning tool. There was one thing I did find odd. On every page, only one word was a different color than the rest of the text. I don't know if there was a special reason for it or they just felt like doing that so it too was one-of-a-kind.

Overall this book was cute and I think kids would get a kick out of the pictures of the animals that Henry dreams up while the adult was reading the book to them.


I recieved this book for free in return for my honest review from BookLook Bloggers.

Beyond Willpower

Many people are looking for something "higher", something that will help them change their life. Many people are looking for self-help as well. Living a healthy and balanced life, being happy and successful has at one time or anoher crossed every person's mind.

Although, I agree with almost everything Dr. Loyd has to say, I believe that God has a bigger hand in healing and bringing peace to our lives.  Dr. Loyd speaks of God, love and grace, which is good. I see God, love and grace powerfully packed into a bold, capital letter GOD. Maybe he does too. I'm not sure. The Bible is good. Psychology is good. The Bible is where I go first. But I don't discredit other books that have helped others (including myself) along the way that are considered "new age-y". 

I would still recommend this book to anyone who wants to  overcome and ELIMINATE (not cover up or repress) past unhealthy negative memories and images. The many years of experience, research, and scientific information will open up an new positive way of thinking and new outlook on life.

Season of Fire

If you are a fan of the Hunger Games, City of Bones, and Divergent, then you will surely like this series. Remnants: Season of Fire is the second book in the Remnants series by Lisa Bergren.

While I started reading the Hunger Games books a long time ago, I much prefer to watch the movies for some reason. While waiting for Season of Fire to come, I picked up the first book, Season of Wonder. It got me hooked and ready to read this book.

This is the continuing the story of Andrei and her knight Duncan, two teens trained since birth to restore peace and order to a world in chaos. For some reason, I was picturing them to look like Katniss and Gale. But that's just me. It took me a little bit to get into the first book, but once it got going, I couldn't wait for the second one to get here. This book is full of action. It's well worth the read. 

meQuilibrium...

I have been under a lot of stress lately. Getting diagnosed with cancer, going back into Spring Sememster for school full time, and being able to work part time while I'm doing treatment. Needless to say, my body has been going through a lot.

When I saw this book on Blogging for Books for review, I decided to give it a try. I mean, I'd do anything to find a little bit of happiness in my crazy life right now.

I was a bit skeptical at first because I was always under the impression that it takes 21 days to form a habit. How can it be any different in 14 days to become happier? I've read books like the Secret and the Power. This book reminds me of that. I also visited the website and you can take one of those tests that "examine" your stress in your life. I've tried a few of the things in the book and I feel a little lighter. I'm hoping that it continues!

The Burn

I don't know why I continue to read "diet" books. I know what I need to do to help lose weight. To me, this book was just like any other diet book out there. It didn't offer any cool, new, special ideas to help lose weight healthy. I tried some of the recipes and they weren't all that great. I love my green smoothies and these made me gag. I'm all for trying new stuff but this was just the worse. I can see why you would drop 3 in 3, 5 in 5, 10 in 10. Wasn't my favorite book.

For the Right Reasons

I normally don't read biographies and authobiographies. They are not my cup of tea. I guess I was in for a little bit of a "brain mush" kind of reading, so I decided I'd give it a try. I have watched the last few seasons of the Bachelor and Bachelorette, and I think I actually started watching when Sean was the Bachelor. I'm glad that he chose Catherine. She didn't cause any drama like some of the girls and she seemed to be under the radar for most of the show. I can see how happy they are when they are together. Overall, I think that this book was like any other biography that I would expect. It was nice to see a different side though of the Sean that you only saw on the Bachelor.

Believe, NIV

When I first got this book, I thought that I was going to be getting another Bible. I opened it and went to the first chapter. I was a bit confused because I didn't know what I was reading at first. I finally figured it out.

These were stories from the Bible that help us to understand how to be more like Jesus.

The "regular" font  parts of the book are the selections from the Bible. The text that is italicized is what the author wrote about that particular text.

I was thoroughly confused at first. I had to stop reading for a little bit. I finally finished the book. It took me longer than I had planned because I had to remember what I was reading, between the author's writing and the biblical selections.