Book Review: "Tough as They Come" by SSG Travis Mills

Tough As They Come by Travis Mills

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


“Tough as They Come” is the inspiring story of one of only five soldiers to survive quadruple amputee injuries as a result of his service in Afghanistan. This story is another reminder of why the title “hero” is so incredibly appropriate to describe our servicemen!

Sergeant Mills writes with an openness, honesty, and humor that keeps the pages turning. Coming from a family that has several servicemen in it, I was both humbled and encouraged – Sergeant Mills’ selflessness, positive attitude, and the love and support between him and his family were wonderful to witness throughout the pages.

At one point, someone asked him, “I hear you’re doing a lot of public speaking lately. What do you have to speak about anyway, dude?!”
He replied, “Nothing really. All I do is walk into a room full of people and say, ‘Hey, everybody, snap your fingers and wiggle your toes.’ They snap and wiggle, and I say, ‘Okay, your life’s not so bad.’”
Great mix of humor and humble challenge!

Negatives: Though Sergeant Mills stated that he believes in prayer, God, right and wrong, the Bible (“at least as it pertains to helping a person live his life better”), and that “faith can help a person along in life”, I was saddened that his Faith did not seem to go much deeper than those simple acknowledgements. He mentions a verse that helped reassure and inspire him during his recovery, but the Lord was plainly working in his life in such larger ways than just through that one Bible verse! Perhaps he simply chose not to speak about his Faith in greater detail; I don’t know. I do hope and pray that he knows Jesus Christ for himself, in more than just generalities.

There were also several instances of crude or foul language.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

"Happy Home Adventures"

 
"Bullfrogs in the sock drawer,
drill bits with the bobby pins,
buttons, beads, and nickels
filling up the cracker tin.

Matchbox cars mixed with the matches,
dirty socks under a bed,
blobs of Play Dough fused together,
cartoon doodles of robot heads.

A kazoo and a drum on the kitchen table,
a mud-pie recipe requiring 'lots of sand',
paper mache ingredients spread out in the hallway -
a happy home has busy hands.

BBs in a mason jar,
tooth fairy findings in a Ziplock bag,
melted bar soap in a puddle,
comfy beds with springs that sag.

Mis-matched plates and silverware,
patient houseplants with braided leaves,
a human ladder made of siblings,
paper snowflakes on the winter eaves.

Muddy rain boots by the door,
a worn-out path down to the creek,
carpet rubbed in trafficked places -
a happy home has running feet.

Crickets singing with the radio,
fingernail clippers in the silverware drawer,
pebbles in pockets in the washing machine,
hand prints on the white back door.

Building blocks on the green front lawn,
a bicycle in pieces with a wrench nearby,
watercolor art draped over a clothesline
made from the string of a mended kite.

Goofy poems and Bible verses,
movie lines and midnight dreams,
related with charming sagacity -
a happy home has voices sweet.

Pencil colors and a coloring book,
on the steps of the big back porch, 
fireflies in a screen-topped jar,
books in stacks on shelves and floor.

A rake and broom against a tree
(reassurance of a fresh-kept yard),
kittens with daisies around their necks,
wallet photos mixed with UNO cards.

Swinging braids and tiny earrings,
cowboy boots and pocket knives,
a happy home is filled with learners -
baking cookies; counting by fives.

So sticky hugs and greasy kisses,
dirty hands and barefoot feet,
shining eyes and happy faces,
work to make a home complete."

- Copyright Kyrie McAlan 2016

{Note: I scribbled most of the above poem in July, right before Jaylyn and Jewel's oldest sister and her family (who had been temporarily living in The Grandparents' house after their own flooded) moved back home. With eight children, there is never a dull moment when visiting them (the photo above is the next-to-youngest son)! We loved having them so close for those months as their house was being repaired, and on the night we were up at The Grandparents' house helping them get ready to move back home, I realized just how much I was going to miss them being up there, filling the dear old house with noise and life and the silly little shenanigans that kids come up with! This is for them.}

Book Review: "The Shattered Vigil" by Patrick W. Carr

The Shattered Vigil by Patrick W. Carr

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


First thing: Read the first book first. I started this book (the second in the series) without realizing how horrible it was going to be as a stand-alone. I’ve read the second book in several series and, though it would have been nice to know what happened before, those stories were able to be picked up and enjoyed without any trouble. This is not that kind of series! This second book was full of common words used in completely uncommon ways - and meaning completely different things - than usual. That’s okay, just as long as the author gives the reader his story’s definitions and usages of those words in the beginning. I can only hope that the first book explains what’s going on, and gives the reader a good sense of context.

Aside from the confusion over word usage, I found this book rather difficult reading. For starters, the print was very small. I’d much rather have a thick book with normal-sized print, than a book of ordinary thickness with a font size that you need a magnifying glass for.

Also, the story seemed to move in spurts. Either I seemed to be struggling to get through the tedium of a scene, or things were moving so fast that I could barely read quickly enough to keep up.

The ‘religious’ elements seemed very weak for the strength of the story itself. There were some thought-provoking points made, and concern was expressed in a couple of places for the spiritual well-being of some of the characters. But much of their ‘theology’ was just off, and the dangerous war-like atmosphere of the setting called for some death to happen, in which cases much of the solemnity and concern was largely passed over, and sometimes lost altogether.

Though the story was interesting and the author obviously has a great imagination (the book is a creative mix of allegory, fantasy, mystery, and sci-fi), I would only be able to say it was “okay” if someone asked me whether I would recommend it.

I received a free copy from the publisher. No review, positive or otherwise, was required—all opinions are my own.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "Shadow of the Storm" by Connilyn Cossette

Shadow of the Storm by Connilyn Cossette

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Mrs. Cossette captures her readers almost from the first page, with vivid descriptions, a quickly-moving story line, and characters that make you root for them right from the first. I appreciated the story even though I have not read the first book in this series.
Her imagination and, by all evidence, detailed research make the section of Biblical history come alive by presenting how the events may have appeared and been experienced by someone who lived through them.

The author touches many emotions and important issues - loss, betrayal, forgiveness, emotional and physical pain, joy, healing, change, trust, adoption, love, sacrifice - and presents them with a Biblical and undeniably redemptive goal. Even though this is an Old Testament setting, Mrs. Cossette points a clear picture to the future and the coming Savior. I loved how she wove Salvation symbolism in at every other turn.

I think my only real drawback (or reason I would not recommend this book to young teen-aged readers) is because of a few somewhat-graphic descriptions. The occupation of midwifery is a main part of the story, and several scenes are pretty descriptive.

Overall, if you love the Bible, enjoy history, or just like a good story, my opinion is that this is a pretty good choice.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers, in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Forever, He Is Alive!

"The moon and stars they wept,
The morning sun was dead -
The Savior of the world was fallen.
His body on the cross,
His blood poured out for us,
The weight of every curse upon Him.

One final breath He gave
As Heaven looked away.
The Son of God was laid in darkness.
A battle in the grave -
The war on death was waged -
The power of hell forever broken.

The ground began to shake;
The stone was rolled away!
His perfect love could not be overcome!
Now death where is your sting?
Our resurrected King
Has rendered you defeated!

Forever, He is glorified!
Forever, He is lifted high!
Forever, He is risen!
He is alive;
He is alive!

We sing hallelujah -
The Lamb has overcome!

Forever, He is glorified!
Forever, He is lifted high!
Forever, He is risen!
He is alive;
He is alive!"

I was listening to the radio on the way to work the other day, and the song "Forever" (Kari Jobe) came on. I've heard it before, and it has never failed to impact me.
The sad sweetness of the singer's voice is piercing in it's gentleness, as she relates the heart-breaking news - the Savior is dead, and all nature mourns. But that's only a small part of the story, and her song soars in triumphant glory as the grave is rendered powerless, and the King rises to reign victorious.
I am reduced to nothing every time, in the face of the awesome Story.
In the hopes that it will be a blessing to you, and lift you up as the reminder of our victorious Savior has lifted me, I have shared it here. The words are above, and the YouTube lyric version below.
Hallelujah!

Book Review: "Shaken" by Tim Tebow

Shaken: Discovering Your True Identity in the Midst of Life's Storms by Tim Tebow

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


In “Shaken”, Tim Tebow weaves Biblical principles with real-life stories that back them up. Some of the stories are from his own life and experience, and he tells them with a refreshing blend of humility, fun, and sober openness. This book reminded me somewhat of the Harris brothers’ “Do Hard Things” (a five-star read)! It both encourages and challenges the reader – yes, life is difficult, yes, there will be people and circumstances determined to discourage and bring you down; but there will also be encouragement. And it’s the ‘hard things’ that strengthen and grow us. Our power in overcoming difficulties or attaining high goals lies in the all-powerful One. For Christians, our identity is in Christ and His love for us. Therefore, even if (or when) our world is shaken, in Him we can remain strong.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books, in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "Hope Prevails" by Dr. Michelle Bengtson

Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Michelle Bengtson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This was a very encouraging and refreshing book. People in general, even Christians, seem unaware of the fact that so many of the causes and/or aggravators of depression are spiritual issues. Dr. Bengtson wisely understands that depression is not going to be cured by a pill or a therapy session, if the heart is not right with the Lord.

Packed with Biblical principles, this book is full of encouragement and advice from someone who has been there, and who can now look back. I loved that Dr. Bengtson included suggested Bible verses to memorize at the end of each chapter. Also, I appreciated the ‘playlists’ of music she’d found encouraging in her own journey, and the personal prayers for those reading the book.

I only had a couple of issues with this book. The first was that it seems to be advertised as a book to help ‘anyone’ who is going through depression, but when reading, it was clearly a book for those who are already believers in Christ. Many of God’s promises covered in this book are for His children only. They would not apply to someone who does not know Him as Savior and Father. Farther into the book, Dr. Bengtson clarifies that salvation through Jesus is the first step towards freedom; while I am thankful that she did clarify, this clarification should have been nearer the beginning.

The second fault I found was a collection of statements regarding one’s perception of individual worth. A couple of quotes such as “…you have infinite worth because Christ paid the price of his life when he died on the cross to save us,” and, “If you were the only one living, God would have done that just for you because he found you worthy,” bothered me. Christ did not die for us because we were so valuable and worth saving – He died for us out of HIS own goodness and mercy and kindness, and His love is what gives us our value. Before He redeemed us, we were despicable; He and His love are what have cleaned us and made us new and beautiful. He didn’t buy us because we were/are valuable – we are valuable because He bought us. While there are certainly people who struggle with understanding their value in the Lord’s eyes, I think Dr. Bengtson could have done a better job of encouraging them scripturally in this case, judging from her excellent level of communicating in other areas.

Lastly, though I loved how she used large amounts of Scripture throughout the book, I did wish Dr. Bengtson had used the King James Version (or at least the New King James) which, based on research and study experience, I have personally found to be the most true translation of the original text.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to Christians struggling with areas of personal darkness and discouragement.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "Hello, Bicycle" by Anna Brones

Hello, Bicycle: An Inspired Guide to the Two-Wheeled Life by Anna Brones

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This compact little book was, for the most part, a wonderful read for the bicycle enthusiast. It is packed with a plethora of bike-related advice, facts, (charming!) illustrations, resource lists, recipes, activities, careers, etc. It seems to at least touch on – if not thoroughly cover – almost any subject or question that might come to the mind of a cyclist. Best suited for those just starting out. A great encouragement to just get on and ride!

There were some negatives. First, the author did not have any qualms about throwing in a curse word or bit of foul language here and there. This is unprofessional, unnecessary, and unwanted. Also, she really liked her alcoholic beverages. I expected a bicycle book, not a beer commercial. It is very discouraging to have to read a book with a bottle of White-Out in one’s hand. And least, but still annoying, while clever with her words, the author was not great on grammar in a few areas.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "Intercessory Prayer" by Dutch Sheets

Intercessory Prayer: How God Can Use Your Prayers to Move Heaven and Earth by Dutch Sheets

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


As a firm believer in the power of prayer, I was very excited to get this book! As I began to read, I got more excited - this was great! There were insights presented and areas explored that took the significance and meaning of prayer in a Christian's life to an amazingly deeper level. However, as I progressed through the book, I began to come across statements and ideas that bothered me, that did not ring true when held up against the Bible, and some that even seemed to border on blasphemy.

Put simply, the 'good' in this book was 'excellent'; the 'bad' in this book was 'really bad'.

I would NOT recommend this book to a new Christian, or to one who is not mature in the Christian faith; certainly not to one who is easily swayed or gullible. I would highly recommend this book to a well-grounded Christian; someone who knows the Bible, who has a discerning spirit, and who is able to 'eat the meat and spit out the bones' of an idea. As I said above, the good parts are REALLY good, and it is worth it to glean from them.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers, in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "The Field Guide to Sports Metaphors" by Josh Chetwynd

The Field Guide to Sports Metaphors: A Compendium of Competitive Words and Idioms by Josh Chetwynd

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


While Mr. Chetwynd has given us an interesting look at a selection of expressions and where they came from, I found this book to be somewhat disappointing.

For starters, unless you have a decent familiarity with a variety of sports, much of what is referenced simply does not make sense. Mr. Chetwynd uses a lot of sporty jargon, seemingly assuming anyone who picks up his book is an avid and knowledgeable sports fan. If someone unfamiliar with sports, but interested in words and where they come from, reads this book, many times throughout it they will be struggling to follow what he's communicating. Add to that the fact that the author seems to have a fascination with using distracting puns, annoying satire, pointed sarcasm, and lots of metaphors in general, it makes for difficult reading.

Secondly, in many of the entries, there seemed to be a focus on how the word or phrase came to be used in the world of sports, instead of how the expression began to be used outside that context. Several times, there was not even a definition of how the expression in question is even used outside of sports, just a statement that it is. By reading the descriptions of this book, one is led to believe that the opposite is what they will be experiencing.

Also, Mr. Chetwynd persistently used the notation "BCE" when referencing relevant sports facts from ancient times, when "B.C." is correct.

Lastly, while the small font size possibly enabled the book to be contained in a compact, almost pocket-sized little volume, I am afraid the tiny print was another drawback for me.

The best thing about this book was it's design. The cover's navy, rich green, and bright white color scheme was refreshing and eye-pleasing, and the vintage artwork agreed with the "Field Guide..." title.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Thoughts On: Is God Real?

Tonight Dad, Mom, Trissy, and I went into town and got frozen yogurt at a new shop that opened up recently. We took it to eat at a rather unconventional hang-out (the rest stop on the highway going through town), but that's just how we roll. We strolled along the walking paths and sang silly old cowboy songs. As we got ready to leave, Trissy stopped to give someone a Gospel paper, and invite him to Victory Rd. A dear man, he is eighty-five and works as a security guard at the rest stop. And he is an atheist.

Trissy said he was very kind and polite, and very sad. His wife died more than thirty-five years ago and now he lives his own life waiting to die. He has chosen to believe that there is no God.

But denying something exists does not make it go away - sooner or later it must be faced. One can, for convenience' sake, deny that the "check oil" light is on in their car. But that does not negate the fact that they must eventually deal with the issue, or risk ruining their motor.

Oh that the Lord would open his eyes! If God were not real, and our human souls were not destined to live on, but our bodies to simply return to dust when we die, yet those who believe on Him still have lost nothing. But if God is real, and our human souls are destined to live on forever - in either a state of incomprehensible joy with Him, or ghastly terror without Him - then those who refuse His mercy stand to lose everything.

For me personally, I simply cannot understand how it is possible for a person to live without God, without Christ.
For starters, if there is no God, then there is no purpose to life - an idea that the human spirit's very core rebels against.
And if there is no God, then where did everything come from? Where did we come from? Some say that everything evolved to the state it's in through a sequence of long, slow events and processes, taking millions, or even billions, of years to accomplish.

Ok, so how exactly did this supposedly happen? How did humans get here?
Well, they say, we are evolved from the monkeys.
Ok, where did the monkeys come from?
Well, they evolved up from a lower life form.
Where did the 'lower life form' come from?
Well, a wet and sort of 'soupy' environment provided the conditions for the cells of that lower life form to emerge from.
Where did the 'soup' come from?
Well, after millions of years of acidic rain on the prehistoric rocks, this 'soup' was produced.
Ok, so, where did the prehistoric rocks come from?
They were already part of the Earth.
Where did the earth come from?
Well, billions of years before, all the matter in the universe was condensed into a very small area that spun faster and faster until a huge explosion scattered it all back out into the forms of the stars and planets there are today, including the Earth.
Where did all the matter come from?

Now, I do realize that above I am - for demonstration's sake - greatly simplifying the evolutionary theory. But they still can't answer that last question. They don't have an answer. They can't tell you where all that dust that supposedly got together, and supposedly got squished, and supposedly exploded into us originated.
Science proves that 'matter can neither be created, nor destroyed'. So, the obvious answer to, "Where did the dust/dirt/matter come from?" is that someone who transcends the laws of science put it there. Well, then, why don't they just say that and answer the question?

Because if they answer the question by saying, "Someone made it and put it there," they are recognizing the fact that there is a 'higher power' that made everything. That made the world, and everything that is in it. That made them. And if there is someone that powerful, he must be God.

They also don't mention a few other little scientific details when relating the way they believe everything came about. They don't tell you that the 'geologic column' has not been found anywhere on the earth. They don't tell you that, when layers with fossils in them are found, many times the fossilized animals are out of the order in which they were supposed to have evolved. They don't tell you that if the big squish and the big explosion happened at the beginning of time, then all the planets would be spinning in one direction, and that actually many of the planets and moons are spinning in the opposite direction.

In their defense, if they did tell things like this, it would totally undermine their theory, and they need an alternative theory to that of Creation. Because, if Creation is true, then there really is a God who made them. And if there really is a God who made them, He has the right to an answer from them on how they have spent the lives and resources He's given them. And they do not want to have to answer for that.

It may be convenient to believe that there is no God, but it isn't safe.

P.S. Pray for Mr. G. to find what is truth.

Book Review: "Rawhide Down" by Del Quentin Wilber

Rawhide Down: The Near Assassination of Ronald Reagan by Del Quentin Wilber

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


A nearly moment-by-moment account of the day of the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan. Riveting; I could hardly put it down! I would definitely call it a must-read for Reagan enthusiasts and/or lovers of American history.

Del Quentin Wilber, in his first book, gives us a fascinating look at each of the key players, their motives, values, and reactions to the events of this key day in Reagan's presidency. He also takes time to explain some of the history of the times, and orient us to what events mean in relation to worlds like the Secret Service and the George Washington Hospital ER and OR.

I also greatly appreciated Mr. Wilber's reporting style - he didn't seem to criticize, condone, or report with a particular bias, he just did extensive research and told the story.
Which does bring me to my only objection, and my reason for giving this book 4.5 stars, instead of 5: Wilber does include foul language in recording dialogue of reactions and events, but only when relating direct quotes.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "Courageous" by Dina L. Sleiman

Courageous by Dina L. Sleiman

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Several characters in this story wrestle with spiritual issues, attempt to discern what is God’s will in various situations, and seek truth, faith, and the peace of God. Initially, since the story touches on differences in religions and spiritual beliefs, I was hopeful that it would have a powerful message of redemption, a loving presentation of the truth of the Bible, and a clear distinction between the Christianity of the Bible and the heartbreaking errors of belief held by the other religions in the story.

While all three of these hopes were partially realized, I was severely disappointed overall. First, there was only a very vague and shallow description of redemption in the lives of a couple of the struggling characters, and the ‘peace’ they received came to them supposedly simply through attending a ‘prayer meeting’ held by a group of children. Receiving of the Lord’s peace and forgiveness is certainly possible to anyone who expresses true repentance of sin! But since it is a personal matter, it must be dealt with personally - must be taken up by the individual and settled between the Lord and them alone. This type of scene was not related. Second, while the Gospel (the fact that Jesus Christ made the atoning sacrifice for mankind by dying on the cross, then rising from the dead, and that faith in Him and belief on Him is the only way a man’s or woman’s sins are covered and they can get to Heaven) was presented/touched on in a couple of places, it was vague and unclear; it was certainly not stressed, though there were several excellent opportunities for the characters to do so, even enhancing the impact of the story. Third, a clear distinction between the religious beliefs of the characters was just not there. There were even conversations among the characters, discussing how their religions were different, then stating that they were ‘not so very different from each other’. I found this disturbing. Either you have the truth, or you do not. Either you are believing the truth, or you are believing a lie, no matter how sincerely. And sadly, so many believe lies.

Overall, I felt that the author’s stand on the fundamental teachings of God’s Word was shaky, at best. This is the primary reason I must say that I was disappointed in this book.

There were a few other issues that I personally did not appreciate. One was that, though intimate immorality was discussed and portrayed as wrong, there were several kisses shared by an unmarried man and woman, and this was treated as if it was fine. The other was that there were ‘women knights’, and women actively involved in battles. Even the author concedes that this is not historically accurate – traditionally, while women sometimes were trained in self-defense skills or as archers, the men were the knights, the protectors, and the guards for the women and the children precious to them.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "A Flight of Arrows" by Lori Benton

A Flight of Arrows by Lori Benton

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


In order to fully appreciate and understand the significance, depth, and meaning in the lessons and struggles of this story, you should first read book number one in the Pathfinders' set, "The Wood's Edge". Book two is much more powerful if you understand where the characters have come from - their 'paths', so to speak.

I have mixed feelings about this book, as I did about the first one.

(minor spoilers below)

The book started out (about the first 1/3 of the book) rather tedious... Sequence of events: crisis, relief, crisis, relief, crisis, relief - and it was the same 'crisis' over and over. It just got a little too dramatic. Maybe I'm being overly critical, but I work at an academy, and it was beginning to remind me of the social 'drama' of high-school.

In the area of romantic relationships, there seemed to be a lot of importance put on 'following your heart', versus taking in the whole picture and making the best choice overall. As if it's more important to struggle against the 'obstacles' (circumstances, people, etc.) so that you can eventually get your own way, instead of realizing that maybe it would be better for those around you, for future generations, and even for yourself, if you sacrifice what you want now for something later.

There are several instances of unmarried couples kissing.

A young man accidentally walks in on a young woman taking a bath. He retreats as quickly as he can, but before he does, she sees him and unashamedly rises out of the tub. She (the young man's sweetheart/girlfriend) is unfair to him in several other similar instances (though the one above was the worst). She acted in ways that were alluring and tempting to him, without seeming to realize (or care) the pain and struggle it is for a young man to remain in control of his desires while being alone with the girl he hopes to marry. He was definitely the honorable one of the two, reminding her of the importance of their purity, and respect to her father. Her father had not given his blessing to their relationship. The girl demonstrated disobedience, rudeness, and defiance of his wishes several times throughout the beginning of the story.

(end of spoilers)

Overall however, I'd say this second book was better than the first one.

The author's attention to detail was impressive. The research required for accurate depiction of life among the peoples and circumstances of that era would have to be extensive, to say the least. Yet the tone and words of the storytelling itself (not simply the dialog), as well as descriptions of culture, events, and practices, definitely take you to another place and time. The up-close-and-personal meetings of actual historical people was also an effective tool used to pull the reader right into the events the characters found themselves in. I didn't realize until nearly the end of the book how I'd grown to love the characters almost as if they were real people - friends I'd actually walked with through twenty years (the approximate time span the two books cover) of turmoil, struggle, and victory.

There were alot of characters to keep up with. Most of them were introduced in the first book, but there were a couple of new ones in this book. A handful of main characters, and a whole army (pardon the pun) of supporting characters. But they weren't too hard to keep up with. The author initially took turns writing segments of the story from the point of view of each of the main characters, until the paths began to join - a gathering of the loose threads of each individual's journey until they all came together. She did a beautiful job of weaving all the threads to a close.

The lessons, virtues, and Biblical principles demonstrated throughout the story were my favorite element - what's a good story if you don't come away having learned something lasting? Honor, courage, ingenuity, hope, loyalty, love, trust in the Lord, faith, peace, forgiveness, patience, humility, perseverance, sacrifice, joy - all these were met by the characters and/or demonstrated in their lives. It was a fictitious story, but the human emotion, the struggles of flawed people living in a broken and sin-filled world of war and loss, and the redemption offered by Christ were true to life and oh so very real. I do not often get emotional over fiction but, at what is probably the climax of the story, I wept with the pain and the glory of the power of God's unfathomable Love and how it can completely change a broken wrath-filled man into an incredible unwavering example of His grace. The pages blurred with the heart-rending account. But though so often the paths of God's children lead through dangers, toils, and snares, His grace will lead us Home. And what Satan means for evil, the Lord can turn into glorious good.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

View all my reviews

Book Review: "Journey to Love" by Amanda Tero

Journey to Love by Amanda Tero

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Incredibly well-written; I was immediately pulled into the story through vivid and skillfully-described scenes, believable characters, and a plot that moved quickly and was woven together with some delightful little twists and turns. I felt like I was watching it all happen, yet was inside the mind of the main character at the same time. A deceptively simple story, dealing with humanity's innate need for ultimate love, acceptance, and lasting peace.

Probably ideal for a pre-teen and younger teenage audience, but I'm in my late twenties and could hardly put it down!

View all my reviews

Early-Morning Mumblings

 
Can't sleep, it's past 1:00 A.M., so here is a by-no-means-exhaustive 'About Me' list:

{Later Note: I in no way intended this to be a 'rant' post. I was awake in the middle of the night, and for some reason, facts about myself began rolling through my head, and I decided to write them down. Then I decided to share them. Maybe that was a bad idea, maybe not. But let me make the disclaimer that I am human and subject to flaws! In my list, I freely admit some of them. I am certainly not always right; I'm simply stating how I am. I also mention ways that other people bug me. Please just take me at face value, appreciate my decision to be open, and forgive my midnight eccentricities.}

-The warning, "Don't tell me I can't - I will die trying," is very nearly true for me.
-It is extremely difficult for me to walk away from a challenge.

-If someone, something, or some cause I love is disrespected, criticized, misrepresented, or made fun of, I immediately feel an intense anger, closely bordering on hatred, toward the perpetrator.
-I am fiercely loyal. To people I love, and to causes I believe in.
-However, if an idea is proven false, or a cause is proven unworthy, I will not hesitate to abandon it.
-I am a person of extremes or opposites; I am either 'all in', or 'all out', 'black' or 'white'. I have very few 'gray' areas.
-I don't like to clean; I love to organize.
-I am easily overwhelmed by perceived difficulties, yet do not accept (in fact tenaciously resist) defeat. One of my least favorite phrases is, "give up".
-I am an undeniable realist, and an indomitable optimist.
-I am easily injured (even if the inflicted pain was not necessarily intentional), especially by people I love, respect, or trust, but am also tough and largely immune to others' opinions of me (I sincerely do my best to do what is right - I try to please the Lord, not people. In pleasing the Lord, I hope Godly people will also be pleased!).
-I love easily; I do not trust easily.
-Some of the people groups I am most drawn to are teenagers and folks from India, Russia, Scotland, Brazil, and New Zealand.

-I am not always right with first impressions, but not often wrong.
-I love to meet honest eyes, a genuine smile, and a firm handshake.
-Christian families with lots of children make me deeply happy.
-Physically unattractive people who are outgoing and confident dispite their looks (or lack thereof) refresh and encourage me.
-Purity,
beauty,
chivalry,
meaning, and
victory delight and rest me.
-The happiest years of my life (to date) were 2010 and 2011.
-One of my greatest sources of enjoyment is to give a gift, whether a tangible item or a deed, to someone I love or respect that gives them a true blessing and/or real pleasure.

-I am primarily an introvert.
-I need lots of sleep (like, 9-10 hours/night. Yeah. I'm writing at 2:00 A.M. I don't know.) or the next day is a battle to keep the bad headache and the snappy grouch at bay.
-My two greatest fears are betraying another's trust, and receiving physical violence.


-When I am very happy or sad about something, I passionately talk about it/obsess over it for a while, then slowly put it away when I sense that it's beginning to get old for the people around me; but I don't forget it.
When I am a-step-above-very happy or sad about something, or when I am particularly moved or awed, my emotion seems to rise to such a pitch that it cannot be expressed, and so I become extremely calm and my body gets very still and quiet, except maybe for a smile (kindof like a fuse box that is overloaded until it can't take anymore energy, so a breaker flips and the whole chunk just stops, I guess). I never talk about those moments.
-Similarly, I am enthusiastic, passionate, and vocal, but rarely, if ever, reveal the deepest parts of my feelings about the subject.
-Often for me, "a smiling face hides a crying heart".
-I can put on a good bluff, for a while; then there comes a point where the pressure must be released. Yeah... I always hope I'm alone when that happens.

-My word is of extreme importance to me. I will rarely tell someone, "I will..." do something (there are always unforeseen variables that could/might prevent me from keeping my word. Instead, I tell people, "I will try to...," or "I will do my best to...," and then I do.).
-Implications, hints, messages 'between the lines', outright lies, 'beating around the bush', 'grayed', 'stretched', or 'twisted' truth are confusing, discouraging, and angering to me. I am bold (sometimes blunt - a fault that needs softening in me), upfront, and honest, and naively expect others to be as well.
-I try to keep my mouth shut if I'm not invited to open it, but if you ask me what I think, I will tell you; don't ask me for my opinion, unless you want it. 

-I am very practical, literal, and logical; for me, things must have a good reason, a point, a significance, a means to an end, and that end must be worthy of the time, resources, and attention it is getting.
-Surface relationships and/or conversations typically bore and sometimes irritate me (for example, two friends are discussing their favorite animae characters, and I'm thinking, 'How is this going to matter twenty years from now? Five years from now? A week from now? Now?'). Others' obsessions over trivial, petty themes, fads, subjects, or hobbies tends to disgust me to the point of unkindness (another of the many faults I am trying to conquer: insensitivity).
-I am indescribably frustrated by others' holdings to incorrect opinions or beliefs, trivial as well as significant (as varied as 'how a particular word is pronounced', 'what year a certain event happened', 'to what extreme Christians should take modesty', or 'whether Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven'). I have an itching, demanding desire to change their minds; not for the sake of proving I am right, but for their sake of becoming right, and for right's sake of being correctly interpreted. 
-Open, honest, deep, meaningful, respectful discussion or debate excites and fulfills me. Even if neither side is 'won over'; as long as the conversation is for the friendly purpose of sharing ideas and encouraging growth, I find it extremely enjoyable.
-On the other hand, I hate antagonism and confrontation.

-I am infuriated by 'Christians' who aren't (people who claim to know and love Christ but then don't live like it - doing, saying, and thinking deeds, words, and thoughts that either are clearly spoken against by the Bible, or are fundamentally contrary to the principles of true Christianity).  
{Later Note: I'm not hating on anyone. I just ask that, if you are not going to act like a Christian, don't tell anyone you are one - it make's it so much harder for those who are sincerely trying to live what they say they believe about Christianity}.
-Gossip disgusts me.
-Assumption-makers and uninformed critics anger me.

-The foibles that most often irritate me in others are usually strikingly similar to my own biggest faults (disrespect, insensitivity, a quick temper, discontentment/unthankfulness, short-sightedness, trivial pursuits, laziness, selfishness, inconsistence, etc. etc.). With Christ's good help, these are being pointed out to me, and we are working together to eradicate them.

Well, now that that's out of my system somewhat, I'll go back to bed and see if sleep will come. Good night, and

Soli Deo Gloria!

-Kyrie<><

Spring Break - 2016

Spring Break has been lovely this year. I have enjoyed 'life' so much these last few days. Not that I don't enjoy my life anyway; it has it's downsides and it's hard times, certainly. But I really am thankful for so many things, thankful for so much of circumstance that makes up the situation I exist in.

I think I was needing this break though. A change of scenery, change of pace. Something 'different' from what has become my 'everyday'.

We were out of school Good Friday as well, so you might say VRCA is getting almost a week-and-a-half Spring Break!

I have mostly been trying to chisel away at my running 'To Do' list. Projects that need to be finished so I can return the pattern I borrowed, new project ideas to try out, yard work during the not-raining days (oh glory!), a dress that needed altering, housecleaning (my whole family's been sick over the last couple of weeks, so there was some major catch-up left from that), cooking (an inconvenient necessity), attention to neglected journaling, reading, laundry, letter writing (have yet to tackle that one), to name a few. It's been an almost-perfect mix of work and play.

Photography, shamefully, has moved nearly to the back burner lately... I've taken a very few pictures that weren't school or work related in the last couple of months (I did have my first paid senior session a few weeks ago - super exciting!). Looking at the lifestyle photography of a friend was how I caught the photography bug in the first place - I'm working on getting back in the habit of picking up the camera again just to work on the art of capturing life.

So thankful for the rest and accomplishment that this break has given me. And I still have two-and-a-half days left!

Thoughts Of A Weary Traveler

{Note: As a Christian and/or as a human, do you ever just get tired? Below is an entry from my journal on Dec. 6, 2015, when I was really feeling it. You may or may not get some of the references, but I need to remember that day, how I felt, and how the Lord is still coming through for me. Above is a reminder I captured on the mission trip I took to Seattle this summer.}

Why is existence so hard? Is it even worth it? Every day almost, it seems, I am more and more aware of my 'stranger status' here in this foreign land. It is hard, so hard, to keep in mind the image of this tiny red mark at the tip of the earth-encircling rope. The red mark seems so long when traveling it.

I am tired, so tired. And if I, then how much more must those long in the way be?

I am in a constant resistance with discouragement, with sadness, with frustration, with anger, and with exhaustion. I seem drowning in these things, and in the utter vastness of the job before me, before all true Christians. But where are, and who are, the true Christians? I can trust no one. All are unstable. All are satisfied in their own ideas, whether Biblical or not. I am in a fight for myself, to become more the Christian that God would have me to be; I am in a fight against Satan's work in the world; and I am in a fight against Satan's work in the church.

I am swallowed up in an invisible cloud; in the center of a bubble from which I cannot escape. If I could but get out and turn around and look on it I think I would see that it is a small inky blot in a vast expanse of gloriously clear air. Like Bilbo getting to the top of the tree and seeing the butterflies above Mirkwood, yet having to descend back into the poisonous darkness, I know there is cleanness and beauty from God's view, but I struggle to keep faith in that view of Light, while I am smothering in the murky darkness.

Tonight Bro. Earl said that in the men's prayer time this afternoon, he prayed for us (Victory Rd.) to have victory in our spiritual lives, so that we may find the freedom and joy and power to live Spirit-filled lives. The timing, for me at least, is absolutely just right.

And he asked, as a challenge, that us as his Sunday night group pray this for the church as well, that a wild-fire of spiritual victory would sweep the church. Oh how it is needed!