Twelve Years

I don't even know where to begin this year. I still feel robbed. Over time, the ripples of grief grow larger. They may not be as steep and intense, but instead are more widespread, touching new areas of life or more people over time. Most people probably meet me and don't know, at least not for awhile, that I have survived the trauma of losing a loved one to murder. Eventually they may find out, or maybe not. But that doesn't mean I don't think about him often. 

I've always been sad he couldn't meet my children, but in their own innocent way I think my kids are starting to feel like they missed out on getting to know him as well. I've been stressed out this week, and trying to follow up on where the appeals process is for one of the killers on top of the general blues I feel this time of year. So I explained to my two older children this morning that Mommy is very sad today because she misses her brother, and that it's the 12 year anniversary of his death. Annie gave me a big hug and didn't say anything. Cassie got serious and said "I miss him too." Cassie is my emotionally in-touch child. She seems to sense sadness or stress in others and her responses always blow me away! We went to a splash pad today to have some outdoor fun, and on the way Annie (my analytical child) said "Mommy when you die it will be sad for me but happy for you because you'll get to see your brother again." We then had a good conversation about Heaven, and how for someone who put their faith in Jesus Christ, death is bittersweet because they get to see JESUS face to face. And yes, they are united with other loved ones who are in heaven, but that it's painful for those still alive because we feel the sting of separation. Annie and Cassie are old enough to understand death, and to need to have these conversations, but it's still hard. A close friend of theirs lost his Daddy last year and we had many conversations on the topic back then as well. 

I wish they could be shielded a little longer from beginning to processing it all, but such is the human condition. Death doesn't make allowances for age in whom it affects. Once sin entered Adam's heart, it began to infect every aspect of human life, and all it's terrible consequences were poured out on his descendants. This is evidenced very much right now in the breakdown that is happening in our culture. 2020 has brought one catastrophe after another. Disease, death, unrest, more death, and people hating and blaming each other for everything. Violence is just begetting more violence, and the USA is no longer united. We are hurting. This is all the result of sin, and another step closer to the final battle. 

Steve was an accomplished singer, songwriter, and musician. He wrote a song called God Forgive Us All, that has come to mind frequently in recent months, It's a modern application of Abraham's plea to God in Genesis 18, when He was about to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham's nephew Lot lived in Sodom, and Abraham wanted to know how many righteous men God would spare the city for. Steve's song is a prayer for God to return His blessings to our land for the sake of the righteous who remain. He recorded it back in 2007, but I feel it becomes more relevant as time passes. Here is a link to a video my mom put together with two of his songs. The first song is one of my favorites, but God Forgive Us All begins around 2 minutes in.

https://youtu.be/wojXkgr1gZU

At this point I am tired and frustrated, and ready for the legal proceedings to end. I'm grateful for how thorough the courts can be in making sure everything is done properly and aboveboard, but it's tiring how long it drags on when we just crave closure.

Above all I still just miss my brother and the good times we had, as well as the close sibling bond. Having that earthly relationship severed through death hurt so badly I felt it before I was informed of what happened. My soul knew and perceived it before my brain did. I still remember clearly the moment I felt him pass, and the moment a few hours later when the police showed up at my door and I made sense of what I felt.

That strong, intelligent young man overcame too much in his short life. I thank God he doesn't know pain anymore, but I still grieve the separation until we meet again.

"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4

I love you bro.

June 19, 2019 Eleven Years

Today has been so busy I haven’t had time to stop and think, much less do any

journaling. But my dear brother has definitely been on my mind. I was thinking

about how I usually have recent pictures of my children, and I want some new

pictures of Steve. But there can’t be any new pictures because he isn’t around

to have them taken. Not that this is surprising, just one of those things that crosses

my mind.

My kids have kept me occupied this week. Two of them had lip and tongue tie

revisions yesterday and we’ve been busy with aftercare and pain killers. Then of

course the one who didn’t need it done is feeling left out and finding other ways to

demand attention. I’m expecting my fourth and last child this fall, and it’s yet another

girl. I have prayed for a son for the past 11 years, planning to name him Stephen

after my brother. Having God say no to this plea has been very very difficult to come

to grips with. I love every one of my girls and wouldn’t trade any of them for anything,

but it stings not to have the son I have prayed for. So we are naming her Stephanie.

I resisted the name for years because I was set on eventually having a son, but

now that that door has closed I have accepted it. Both names mean “crown” and

I am finally at peace that I can honor his memory with a name the only way I possibly

can. It may seem silly to others, but I know my brother wanted children of his own

very strongly. He was not only denied that opportunity, but I feel like he was cut off.

He didn’t get to pass his last name along and leavechildren to succeed him. There is

no way to remedy that, but I have always felt like he at least deserves a namesake in

some way. We will be calling her Stevie for short and now I’m in love!

Speaking of children, I’ve said this before but not a day goes by I don’t wish he could

meet my brood of sweet and active kids. I know he’d be a doting Uncle, and I wish he

could meet Mike’s two little ones as well. Last year Annie and Cassie decided we were

making a cake on his birthday and celebrating. I’m sure it will become a yearly tradition

now. The fact that he is in Heaven made no difference to them as to whether a cake,

singing, and celebration was in order!

Kid antics aside, although my family has grown over the years and things change,

the pain of losing Steve still feels fresh some days. My perspective changes a little,

and my situation changes a lot. Life is fluid and ever-changing, but when someone

dies it’s as if their life is now solid. It can’t change any more, and the memories of them

become a constant. My feelings and thoughts about the living can change as time goes

on and we have more interactions etc, but when I think of Steve it’s always a constant.

This is some comfort in a way because he was such a wonderful brother and we have

so many happy memories. But sad because there are no more happy memories to

be added.

I rejoice with the knowledge that I do not grieve as those who have no hope. Someday

we will be reunited, and what a joyous day that will be! He’s already been reunited over

the years with other friends and family who have left us before we were ready to lose

them. I know he is whole again, with no pain or heartache, and that although the

separation hurts it is only temporary.

Gotta love this goofy picture from our college days!

But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen
asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus
died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain
until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For
the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel,
and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are
alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord
in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another
with these words.

I Thess 4:13-18

Book Review: A Most Noble Heir by Susan Anne Mason

Nolan Price was a man with plans. He was careful for years to set himself up to rise above his situation and provide for the girl he loves and their families. But a deathbed confession from the mother who raised him tosses him in a completely different direction. Will he still have room in his life for the people who have always been closest to him?

Hannah Burnham had been rejected when her father passed away and her mother married again. Sent off to work as a kitchen maid in an earl’s mansion, she finds love. But when a huge change threatens to tear them apart she has decisions to make.

I really enjoyed this story. It takes place in England in the 1800s, which is a period of time I enjoy reading about. The plotline bothered me early on, because parts of it seemed to move too quickly, and I was waiting for the conflict in the romance that I’m used to seeing. It eventually surfaces, just not in the way I expected. The characters are challenged to examine their trust in God and each other, and multiple relationships begin to blossom as families learn to exist with new circumstances.

I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys romance with plot twists. It flows differently than what I’m used to, but in a very good way.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Ten Years After: A Reflection on Loss

I haven't really written much about my brother the past few years, but it doesn't mean I haven't thought of him often. My family suffered another great loss this past year when my dear uncle passed away. Scott had loved Steve and it's hard having both of them gone. Scott was a great guy to be around. He loved his family and had a great sense of humor. On top of that, I had a hard time watching my Mother lose her brother because it's an anguish I know all too well.

It's also been painful hitting this ten year mark while still waiting for justice to be served. I always prayed we wouldn't be one of those families waiting 10+ years but here we are. It is what it is though. I try not to allow waiting for closure to consume my thoughts. The actions of two evil men have taken enough from me; I won't allow them to continue to take my joy now.

And then there are his nieces. I have three little girls who never got to meet their uncle, and a sweet little niece from Mike as well. I do talk about him to them though. Annie is full of questions about her family, and she knows that the piano keyboard she and her sister play on was his. She knows she has an Uncle Steve that's in Heaven, and she recognizes him in pictures. It breaks my heart when she asks about him and wants to know when she'll get to meet him. It's not often that it comes up with her, but it does happen and it's difficult to stay composed at times.

Grief changes over the years. You learn to function with it and not allow it to overtake you like it does in the early years. I don't miss him any less or hurt any less thinking about what happened, but I don't get paralyzed and overcome by grief and shock like I used to. Part of that is the joy and new purpose I get from the wonderful family God has given me. My husband and three daughters fill me with joy, as does my relationship with God. And I have comfort knowing I'll see Steve again one day when I too depart this world and enter God's presence. It's not that I'm OK with his death now, but more like I've accepted the reality of it and have aquired a new normal.

I guess what I'm left with is the occasional longing. A random thought or reminder will get me to thinking of what might have been. The family he always wanted but never got: I feel robbed of potential nieces and nephews who never got a chance to exist. Watching him get to know my husband and kids: Bruce and I started dating shortly after we lost Steve and I enjoyed watching him get closer to Mike and my parents. I wish I could see Steve involved in my family as well. Then there is that beautiful sibling bond I watch growing among my girls. It is heartwarming to see and reminds me of what Mike and I had with Steve. I'm not saying this consumes my being, but the thoughts creep in when I least expect them and the sting of grief surprises me. I expect it will always be this way. I lost a part of myself and carry the scar as a reminder.

Steve, myself, and Mike

And then there is Matt Butler. Matt was a friend of mine, and one of Steve's best friends. He's the other person we lost that day. It's always been hard to process losing both of them at the same time. They had a very entertaining and close friendship. Steve helped Matt with technical acumen at his recording studio, and Matt pushed Steve's social limits. Matt didn't have siblings, but he was close to his cousins, and considered Steve his "bro". I remember listening to a long conversation between the two of them defining the term " bro love" (as a platonic expression). There ended up being many people that grieved losing both of them, myself included.

Steve and Matt

Steve Swan: Son, brother, friend, confidant, and many other things to many other people. He was kind, intelligent, generous, humble, and always willing to help people. He made a greater imprint in this world than he was ever aware of. I remember so many candid moments with him sharing dreams, reservations, hopes, fears, jokes and general good times that I will never forget. A talented musician and singer, he left behind recordings that give insight into his thoughts, life, and sense of humor. They are a comfort to his family in his absence, vocal remnants of the young man we knew and loved.

I'll miss him until I see him again.

Revelation 21:4 - And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

1 Corinthians 2:9 - But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Book Review: I Can Only Imagine by Bart Millard, with Robert Noland

Pretty much everyone that listens to worship music, and probably a good number of Americans who don’t, are familiar with the song I Can Only Imagine. But where did the inspiration for the song come from? I knew from watching the concept music video many years ago that it was a tribute. But despite the fact that I’d seen Mercy Me play many times when I was younger, including a week long retreat to Glorietta, New Mexico for college week with Mercy Me providing worship, I wasn’t aware of all the pain and providence that led up to those words being penned. The movie gives the story in a nutshell, but on the pages of this book, Bart Millard takes the time to get a more complete version of the story out in the form of his memoirs.

Wow. What a story. Bart went though some difficult times as a youth, particularly where it involved his father. But ultimately this is a story of the power of God and His redemption, as well as how God prepares His followers for years before His plan can be seen by us. I really think that everyone can connect with at least one part of this story. His collection of experiences is unique but there are those little parts here and there that everyone can read and just cry over. For me, it was the part where he mentions that after his Dad’s funeral was the hard part. Everyone else moves on with life and the support drops out when you need it the most. I experienced this when I lost my brother and I’ve said it to grieving friends for years.

I’m not going to spoil it by getting into the details of the book, but I will say this is a worthwhile read for everyone. Read the book, watch the movie, and share it! Bart’s story is touching, real, and a clear case of God’s purpose despite the pain of living in a sinful world.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: When God Made Light by Matthew Paul Turner, Illustrated by David Catrow

When God Made Light is a sweet book for children about enjoying God’s creation and the light He put into it. I have to just say first off that the illustrations in this book are amazing! Honestly the pictures captured my attention more than the words. The text sparks the imagination, but to a young child who may lack context, the pictures do wonders. If you have a two year old and a three year old, like I do, they may be more interested in making their own observations about the pictures than hanging on to the words.

I definitely recommend this book for young children, largely because it is an attractive book. The illustrations have movement and character built into them and are just plain adorable pictures of kids (and their dog) having fun. The narrative rhymes and flows well but it’s the visuals that make this book work.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Hope for Each Day by Billy Graham

Ah Billy Graham, always so full of insight! I have read several devotionals over the years and enjoyed most of them, but Hope for Each Day is quite a new level of refreshing! The devotional covers a full year, and each day contains a Bible verse, the main devotion, and a box at the bottom with some application of the message (entitled “Hope for Today”). 

The book itself is bonded leather and is beautiful and nice to handle. There is a ribbon bookmark as well, which gives it a feel similar to a lightweight Bible. The devotions are clear, concise, and easy to read while still being full of depth and insight. I have really never been as encouraged by a devotional as I am when reading them! The questions asked at the end incite reflection on my life as pertaining to the rest of the short message. I truly believe that God gifted Billy Graham with a way to reach people through both spoken and written word. I love to read his books and have never been anything but happy with them.

I recommend this devotional to any Christian no matter where in your Christian walk you are. It really has something for everybody!

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Long Before Luther by Nathan Busenitz

With the 500^th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation came the release of the excellent treatise on reformation Soteriology as expressed by its forerunners. The book covers three specific areas of Reformation doctrine in its survey of theologians dating back to the time of the New Testament: forensic justification, justification distinguished from sanctification, and the imputed righteousness of Christ. If none of that made sense, don’t worry! The author explains what all of those terms are.

The reasoning behind this book is that many claim that the Reformation understanding of justification by faith alone (sola fide) was a new invention by Reformers, and that we should go back to the “mother church” of Catholicism. By the end of the book I was rather encouraged that what I believe as a Protestant Christian is Biblical and also taught is some form by the early Church fathers.

I would recommend this book for any Christian seeking to understand Reformation doctrine and how far back it reaches. It may be slow reading for those who aren’t used to reading books that cover theology, but for the more advanced reader of theology, it’s pretty easy to get through.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Moody Publishers blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano

Gertrude spends a good portion of her time as a paid lady’s companion running interference for her employer, who has a peculiar habit of removing items from their proper place. However, it seems someone may have capitalized on the old lady’s eccentricities, or else she has escalated her behavior. Gertrude is caught in the middle of some strange and disturbing occurrences as she contemplates her employment and life choices. A further source of confusion is her friendship with a rather unconventional gentleman. Over the course of events they are both forced to face their feelings about each other and decide what to do about them.

I enjoyed the sometimes playful, sometimes conflicted interactions among the characters in this book. It is apparently the second in a series, but I was able to enjoy it without having read the first book, as the main characters are different. Possible future books have the stage set for them by this story though, so I may consider others in the series. Overall it was a well written romance with a fun mystery in the background, leading to some entertaining predicaments for all involved!

I enjoy fiction set in the 1800s and early 1900s in America, so this story was the kind I generally choose to read, and I would recommend it for those who enjoy romantic historical fiction.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Lizzy the Lioness by Lisa Bevere, Illustrated by Kirsteen Harris-Jones

Lizzy The Lioness is a story about a lion cub that gets in a tight spot and needs to ask for help from her pride. It’s a pretty cute story. She befriends a human and has a run-in with some hyenas. She learns that asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of, but rather the right thing to do.

I love to read books to my children when they have a moral or a good message.  My children generally have no problem asking for help, but as they seek more independence I do have to remind them they still need it. I have a three year old and a one and a half year old I read this book to. The younger one didn’t focus well but my three year old did. The book is probably best for a 4-8 year old though. I like how the story teaches children to rely on their family. Of course, this can extend to any close adult or caregiver, but I do appreciate the family connection.

The illustrations are vivid and colorful, and the font size varies for emphasis. I recommend it for children age 3 or 4 to 8 years old. It would also be one I would consider as a gift for a friend’s child, because parents can appreciate it as well.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Blue Ridge Sunrise by Denise Hunter

Zoe Collins left home five years ago to pursue her dreams. A death in the family brings her back, and she has some tough decisions to make. But soon things spin out of control – her control anyway – and a cascade of events begins that could turn her life around. She inherits her grandmothers peach orchard, which comes with the responsibility of running it. To further throw a knot into matters, an old flame resurfaces closer than she would have liked, and the past begins to come to light.

Blue Ridge Sunrise was a gratifying romance true to author Denise Hunter’s style. I enjoy her books because she always adds just the right amount of conflict combined with suspense in the rest of the story line. Right as things start looking up for Zoe, they start crumbling just as quickly. She has to slow down and start trusting God and following His will before her life starts to come together again. I felt the book ended with a few loose ends surrounding some of the side characters, and discovered that there will be a sequel! I’ll definitely want to read Honeysuckle Dreams when it is released!

I recommend this book for fans of clean romance. It doesn’t portray perfect characters but real people who make human choices. However, it is from a Christian perspective so it doesn’t get raunchy. If you like Denise Hunter’s other books you will probably love this one!

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Captain Takes a Wife by Doris Durbin

As Harry sets off to hopefully start a ministry as a circuit riding preacher, he suddenly finds himself thrust into the position of providing protection for a young woman running away from an arranged marriage. Sarah Franklin is apparently unwittingly caught up in a greater criminal scheme, and those around her do not seem to mind writing her off as collateral damage. Will the two rush into a romance in the midst of all the running and fighting?

The mystery and suspense in this story was great. There were multiple twists and turns, and considering the story takes place in about a week’s time, it was pretty action packed. I will say I was expecting a little more development of the romance side. It was there, but a good romance usually has some conflict between the characters, or at least more of a process. This one was pretty open book and just moved forward with almost too much ease. Other characters outside the main romance provided more interesting conflict within the story.

I enjoyed the story for the most part. There were characters that had made past mistakes and owned up to them, moving forward in their relationship with God. I just felt that in general the romance side of it was kind of boring, and many of the other conflicts between characters were just wrapped up way too simply to be very interesting. It’s probably not making my list of books I tell people to read when they ask for a recommendation.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: God Gave Us Family by Lisa Tawn Bergren, Illustrated by David Hohn

God Gave Us Family is a children’s book that teaches the importance of family. As he is off to a pack reunion with his parents, a young wolf learns about different kinds of families and extended family as well. He sees other children living with large families, adoptive families, grandparents, and single parents before learning that his pack is considered family as well. It is a valuable lesson for young children, who often see life through the context of their own experiences or those close to them.

I have a three year old and a one and a half year old, and they both enjoy this book. The illustrations are cute and have plenty to look at, and the book is generally attractive to young children. My three year old follows along and tries to rephrase what is happening, while her little sister makes one-word comments to recap what she sees. We have another of Bergren’s books called God Gave Us You, which is a simpler board book targeted to slightly younger children. God Gave Us Family is a little longer and has more pages and words, but as I said I still found it appropriate for my little ones.

I would definitely recommend this book to parents of young children. It is appropriate for a pretty wide range of ages (3-5 is probably the best though) and it teaches some great truths about family as a gift from God.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan

Kate is a hard working plaintiff’s attorney who wants nothing but to do right by her clients. She has been appointed lead attorney for a major pharmaceuticals lawsuit, and quickly becomes emotionally attached to the case. She also starts becoming emotionally attached to the PI she hired to help do some digging for her.

The plot was OK. It wasn’t entirely predictable as far as who was involved in what, but I was more distracted by the fact that the romantic suspense was sadly lacking. The main characters faced various personal and spiritual challenges as well as those related to the pharmaceuticals case that the book centers around. I’m used to romances that develop in a less obvious way though. I guess this one was just way too neat and easy so it lacked interest.

I did enjoy the book, and if you like fiction that revolves around a legal case you’ll probably enjoy it too. There was some suspense and it wasn’t bad as far as a big pharma crime novel goes, but don’t expect much from the romance aspect.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The King James Study Bible, Full Color Edition from Thomas Nelson Publishers

The King James Study Bible has always been a solid study Bible to me. I already had the Wide Margin Edition, but it’s the 1988 release. The Full Color Edition is new (2017) and very user friendly. I read through Colossians, a few chapters in Acts and Genesis, and skipped around to other areas to compare it with my older edition and get an overall feel.

Comparison of Content

I really didn’t see anything new with the Full Color Edition as far as content. Both have annotations, doctrinal footnotes, personality profiles, archaeological sites, and maps. The Full Color Edition has them in color, with more detailed maps and pictures to accompany the other sections. I find the pictures make the content more engaging, giving context and a general feel for the era. The Foreword states that the notes and archaeological sites have updated information that has come to our knowledge since the original King James Study Bible was published.

Format and Layout

Again not much difference here except the color and pictures. However, the contrast provided by color in the center margins and various sections makes the color edition much more user friendly. The introductions to the books are also more clear and easy to get through because they are broken up by colors and pictures.

Review of Content

I look at specific things when I decide if I like a particular study Bible. First I look for the covenants and a take on dispensationalism. This Bible is dispensationalist, and has descriptions of the covenants. It doesn’t go overboard but the essence is there.

The second thing is whether the annotations support Biblical creation. I have seen some study Bibles who present various evolutionary theories and don’t discount them. This one supports creation ex nihilo so it passed my second test!

I should also mention that this Bible is pretty full of study notes. Some passages have more than others of course, but I feel like it has enough content to give a pretty thorough study of the Bible.

Craftmanship

My copy is brown bonded leather with a brown ribbon bookmark. It is thread bound and I found no blemishes or mistakes in the printing or binding.

Overall I really love this Bible and am glad to have it to update my study Bible collection! I loved the King James Study Bible to begin with and this edition is a wonderful update to my older version. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a sound study Bible, whether you are starting from barely knowing the Bible or wanting to deepen your study after having read others.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Here and Gone by Haylen Beck

Audra Kinney is living a nightmare. She is trying to escape an abusive husband who was crafty enough to manipulate her such that he stands to be able to keep the children from her. When she finally makes the decision to take her children far away from him, the nightmare takes of a chilling new turn. Behind bars and with her children missing, Audra must find a way to save her family and get out of the mess she is in.

The first few chapters in Here and Gone set the stage and introduce a variety of characters and situations, but once you get about 10 chapters in (chapters are short), it gets very difficult to stop reading. As the mother of young children myself, I connected with Audra’s maternal instincts and the hopelessness of her plight. I also enjoyed reading about a character that connects with her inner strength to boldly overcome an impossible situation. Mr. Beck does an excellent job weaving a thrilling tale of deceit and treachery that will keep your attention and hold it even once the book has ended.

I don’t recommend this book for young readers as it has adult themes, including abuse. But I highly recommend it for the mature reader who has a stomach for some difficult but very realistic scenarios.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Sweetbriar Cottage by Denise Hunter

Noah decided to take a routine trip into town to check his mail and pick up a few supplies, but a letter from the IRS claiming he is still married railroads his plans. He confronts his ex and begins the process of rectifying the mistake in the paperwork to finalize the divorce that should have been done with a year and a half ago. Josephine was going about her daily business running her hair salon when her “ex-husband” barges in, visibly upset, to inform her of his recent discovery. In an attempt to rectify matters, she runs the new papers up to his ranch a few days later only to discover that she is now trapped with him waiting for a severe winter storm to pass.

A few years ago I read one of Denise Hunter’s romance novels and really enjoyed it, so I figured I’d try another one. I was not disappointed! I feel like her writing has gotten better, and I really enjoy her character development. The story brings up past issues for the characters, who have to learn to trust God in different ways. Josephine has to learn to accept forgiveness, and Noah learns to explore the truth before jumping to rash decisions. It turned out to be a beautiful love story that I read in about two days.

If you enjoy a fairly clean romance with Christian undertones, you will enjoy Sweetbriar Cottage. I would not recommend it for younger teens as there are some adult themes. So parents, you might want to read this before you decide it’s appropriate for your older teens.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Precious Moments Little Book of Bible Stories by Jean Fischer

I tried to hide this book from my kids (ages 1 and 2) when it showed up so I could pull it out at bedtime. It didn’t work! They both immediately knew it must be for them and wanted me to read it! We go through a few pages a day and they love it! It’s a board book, and the pictures are adorable and attractive to children, like most precious moments books. Every page has its own Bible story complete with a corresponding verse and a short prayer.

Each story is presented in a clear and simple manner appropriate for a 1-3 year old (in my opinion). It’s definitely better quality than some other Bible storybooks I’ve seen for very young children. The stories are simplified but not ridiculous. And the fact that my children love it is a huge plus! The illustrations are attractive for kids and adults, and the slick board pages and thick cover make it pleasant to handle as well (both big pluses for children’s books). It’s also pretty durable.

If you have young children I recommend this book. I think it would make a great baby shower or baby dedication gift as well.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Promise of Breeze Hill by Pam Hillman

Life along the Natchez Trace in the 1700s was anything but easy, especially for the Bartholomew family, whose plantation bordered the trace. Murder and sabotage to their plantation have combined to make life difficult, and now Isabella has had to rise and manage her family and the plantation. Juggling responsibility and family has caused her to resist various suitors vying for her hand in marriage… or perhaps just control of her father’s land?

Connor O’Shea is again thrust in a position where life as an indentured servant is the only way to bring his family from Ireland to America where they can all start a new life. The past eight years of service earned his own passage, and would’ve begun to bring over his brothers if it weren’t for the untimely death of his master. He ends up indentured to Breeze Hill, charged with rebuilding the plantation home under the oversight of the plantation owners beautiful daughter. Can he keep his personal feelings to himself and focus strictly on his job?

I enjoyed the interplay of relationships put forth in this story, as well as reading about the main character’s struggle with faith. I was able to connect with her struggles, as some of her losses matched my own, and even her methods of dealing with those losses by pushing away new relationships and attempting to focus only on family when God has other plans. The romance has a perfect level of involvement in the story without distracting from the rest of the plot. If you, like me, enjoy fiction and romance set in American history then you will probably enjoy this book. It’s an easy read, and I got through it in about two days despite the fact that I’m a full time Mom. I didn’t do as much sleeping as I should have though!

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Tyndale House Publishers blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Mighty Salads by the Editors of Food 52

Mighty Salads is not your run-of-the-mill cookbook. It contains 60 mouth-watering recipes for salads that are balanced and filling enough to make a meal out of them. The book is also sprinkled full of tips on topics like growing your own sprouts, preparing eggs, and prepping other ingredients. Each recipe is accompanied by a photograph. (Hey, we eat with our eyes first right?)

I must say this is a book to get excited about. I couldn’t stop devouring the pictures and planning what to make first when it arrived. The recipes are well-constructed and exciting, and this book is a must-have for foodies who like to cook, or those trying to improve their health and eating habits. However, many of the ingredients are difficult to find, expensive, or require some advance preparation. So if you are a Mom trying to constantly feed a family of small children you may find yourself frustrated with prep-time (and of course combating a child’s simple palette desiring mac and cheese or pizza most of the time). However it’s still a pleasant book to have around for a special night without the kids, or maybe when they go off to college!

                                                             

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255