Married to the Cloth

My mother is a quilter. She quilts by hand, by machine, using scraps of fabric and even tshirts. Whenever she sees a quilt, she turns it over to se the label, and read the story of the quilt. This new series of books gives you stories of the quilts and their creators. Each book has a different author, a different style and a new voice, just as quilts are a kaleidoscope. There are 19 books in the series so far, enough to keep you warm all winter, even the coldest winter in 20 yrs! Scraps of Evidence is book#14 This one tells the story of the Quilt itself, and how it is linked to mystery. Two detectives are trying to track down a serial killer and solve a cold case. Of course there is some romance thrown in like a brightly coloured fabric to add to the depth of a quilt. A quick read that will warm your heart. A Sky Without Stars is book #15. As 1/16th Lakota, I connected to this story. One of the things I love about Native American culture is there isn't the "how ...

We seem to be lacking "older women to teach the younger women." Joyce makes a conscience effort to be a Titus 2 woman with this book.  This book is full of  advice on loving your husband,  that marriage is not all about you, and on raising children. She discusses being a servant, and looking for ways to interact with the older and younger generations.  Joyce Ellis helps you see how your "hats" come together, and how you can make a difference in your world.

As an 11 yr old, I would steal my mom’s Janette Oke books and read them late at night. My teenage daughters now watch the Hallmark series. I love that this new book combines the writing of both Mother and Daughter. It is perfect. 3 generations of my own family have read or watched generations of Marty’s family grow. This book does not disappoint.  The Canadian West series was always my favourite. I wanted to run off to the Canadian Rockies and find mine own adventures. I am so glad that Janette and Laurel continued the story!

After the first few babies arrived, I never expected to do much outside of our home. I had no idea I would be spinning wool or creating things to keep my family warm, or use those things in a marketplace setting. I feel like I am gathering things from afar. This year as my husband decreased his pay in order to keep the ministry afloat, I generated income almost matching what his pay cut equaled. Not bad for someone who doesn't have a real job. But it has been a great struggle to find balance. Homeschooling high school students, packing lunches and sending elementary students off in the mornings, and business trips, not to mention all the "mission trips" this year, has left me feeling stretched thin.  I was able to find good advice in this book. "Timing is truly important when we look at the context of responsibility." (Your timing, not mine) "I've indeed been used as a vessel of created delivery, and have accepted responsibility for the seed th...

The Thief by Stephanie Landsem is the second book in the Living Water series. Don't worry, it is more of a stand alone book than a sequel. The Thief is a fictional retelling of "the day Christ died", with a romance between a Jew and Roman thrown in. Well researched and beautifully written, you will love reading this book. Stephanie Landsem is a new favourite author.  Nissa goes from contemplating pick pocketing for survival to watching the call to stone the woman caught in adultery. In the midst of all of this turmoil, her brother shows up, her blind brother. Like in real life, we get to witness how a miracle has ripple effects to others, and not just the one "healed" or experiencing the miracle first hand. This is a story of forgiveness and the healing of hearts and souls.  Book Overview Longinus is a Roman centurion haunted by death and failure. Desperate to escape the accursed Judean province, he accepts a wager. If he can catch the thieves harass...

Before the business trip this weekend (which I am still sore over!!!!!!) I received in the mail a set of Inscribed devotional books. I was expecting small workbook Bible Study booklets. These are some hefty books. I was really impressed. The ones I received are the first 4 in the series (due out March 3), and 3 more will be published later in the year. If you want these for your church, Thomas Nelson has some great specials for buying in bulk for your church. Donna Gaines' book Leaving Ordinary was birthed from a study on the Tabernacle. Amazed and Confused by Heather Zempel "The book starts with a general overview of Old Testament history and exegetical tools for reading the minor prophets. Then, it launches into a play-by-play of the book of Habakkuk." Yes Habbakkuk! When did you last do a study on Habbakkuk?! Heather says: "Why did I write a book on Habakkuk? The title, Amazed and Confused , is a play off God’s exhortation to the people of Judah in...

Author is sick. Very sick. Rx and Doctor ordered rest is on the menu. Will be back soon. (pre-scheduled posts will post themselves)