Seeds of Thought

The Importance of Attitude

2012-02-17T17:27:00.003-05:00

It has been a long and tiring week. As I laid in bed last night (at 8:10), I began to think about why I was so tired. I had a nap yesterday and hadn't done too much, so why did I feel so beat down and tired? While I could attribute it to the hours that we have had to spend at the dance studio in the last few weeks getting ready for competition next week, it was really not that much time. Or I could say it was because of work, but I haven't really been doing that much work. I finally got "real" with myself and realized that it was a combination of two different things. The first is my weight. While I have been working out 2-3 times per week for an hour at a time, my food choices have sucked in a big way. My personal trainer has drilled into my head that sugar will cause me to feel bad, but I just keep eating it anyway. That, in addition to my attitude of thinking that I "deserve" to eat everything that I want is truly causing me to feel worse than I ever have. No more excuses. I need to make changes.

Secondly, I let myself off too easy. Some days I truly need a nap, but other days, I am just procrastinating on doing work. The veil of darkness and depression that I feel sometimes is hard to battle, but it is just that-a battle.

I can truly say that just coming to those conclusions has opened my eyes. Today there has been no nap and there was no TV for most of the day. I got lots of work done and I feel better both mentally and physically. One day at a time....

Where In the World Have I Been?

2012-02-07T20:32:00.002-05:00

I simply cannot believe that it has been over three years since I have shared some "seeds" with you, my readers. It has been three years of wonderful joy and excitement, as well as times of trying and growing. I graduated from college, celebrated my 40th, and have children in all three schools-elementary, middle, and high school. I resigned from my job at the church and have been going through a time of growing with God. It has not all been easy, but it is a time of refinement that is going to make me into what God wants me to be.

New interests are leading me in a different direction. From writing a devotional to doing some travel writing for families, it is always fun to look back on your life and see the different directions that it goes in. I hope to share my journey with you. What have you been up to?

Love you,

Christmas Blessings!

2008-12-29T17:06:00.002-05:00

As much as I enjoy Christmas, there is nothing that seems to open up my living room like taking the Christmas tree down. I don't know what it is about this particular year, but I didn't even get it up until two weeks before Christmas and our Christmas tree seemed to have serious psychological issues in that it fell not once, not twice, but five times! Maybe its feelings were really hurt. Anyways, as soon as the last presents were taken out from under the tree and it was looking all sad and forlorn, it fell for the final time. I took it down Christmas afternoon, simply because it obviously was tired and didn't want us to enjoy it anymore.

Something I did get to enjoy this year, however, was my beautiful nephew. Although I became an aunt when my sister got married five years ago with my niece, since she doesn't live with them, I didn't really feel like an aunt. The big surprise arrival of my nephew was the greatest Christmas gift that I could hope for! I have already purchased him a bib that says, "My Aunt Janis Loves Me." I am going to spoil him rotten!

When thinking about the next year, I have a few things that I want to work on. I am just going to narrow them down to the basics.

Eat less. Exercise more.
Spend Less. Save more.
Less of me. More of Him.

If I can just do these three things, everything else will fall into place. How was your Christmas?

Smiles and Loves!

Where is Janis?

2008-12-03T09:13:00.011-05:00

What have I been up to? Here are a few pictures from the last few months.

Spent a relaxing weekend with my hubby in Panama City.

K turned 9.

Spent Halloween with Anakin Skywalker, Hannah Montana, and Snow White.

Working....

Studying....

Getting ready for Christmas. What have you been up to?

Don't forget to check out my book reviews at The Nearsighted Bookworm. There are some great Christmas books and children's books coming up!

Smiles and Loves!

Thoughts I Am Thinking

2008-10-07T10:08:00.004-05:00

How is it that when I have plenty of time (AKA this summer) that I didn't get any jobs and now that I am in the throes of school (AKA lots of reading) that I get 6-8 a week? I really don't get it, but that is why I haven't been doing much on the old blog. I have a regular client that I love to work for and she keeps me as busy as I want to be, but these little jobs from former clients of mine are what throws a wrench in my plans. I hate to turn down money (who does?), but sometimes I just want to stop working altogether and take a breath. Then my mind goes to "what if we need the money and I have severed all of these relationships. What will I do then?" This is what keeps me saying, "Yes" and then plowing through.

Other thoughts turn to Halloween. I have wanted to dress up the last few years and I finally took the plunge. Here is my skirt for my costume.

Isn't it cute? My mom gave me the idea and I found this one on ebay. I just love ebay. I figure I can wear it several Halloweens with a white shirt and keds. Put my hair up in a pony tail and I am ready to go. I am ready for Halloween!

I have renewed my commitment to Bible study this week. I have started "A Mom After God's Own Heart" by Elizabeth George and am really enjoying it. It has made my day much smoother all around. I don't know why I quit Bible study-I know that it is the most important part of the day.

I have also renewed my commitment to exercise and health. Notice I didn't say "diet." I am staying away from that word as it seems to make my body swell up with fat!LOL

I am trying to get my house in order, study for four classes, do 5 (of the 8 I got this week) more jobs, and take care of the kids (fall break). Juggling is what I do best!

How is your week going?

Smiles and Loves!

Maintain Your Life With God-Standing Tall

2008-09-23T06:40:00.003-05:00

Our pastor asked us to read Jude this week to help reinforce his message to us. One part of Jude really stood out to me in my reading. Here are the verses from The Message:

20-21But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!
22-23Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
24-25And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating—to our one God, our only Savior, through Jesus Christ, our Master, be glory, majesty, strength, and rule before all time, and now, and to the end of all time. Yes. (Jude 1:20-25)

The heading caught my eye first. In my Bible (The Message-NKJV Parallel Bible) the heading says "Maintain Your Life With God." This has been an issue with me. Working in the church as the nursery director means that I have been to church in the last year less than 10 times and I can see that this has a huge effect upon my relationship with God. I tell people that I am okay and that I can keep my relationship fresh by studying about Him at home, but it is not the same thing. I can tell a difference in my walk and life with Him.

The first thing that struck me in these verses is "build yourselves up." Jude didn't say that life with God would be easy. He said we have to build ourselves up in our faith by praying. How is my prayer life? Pretty non-existent for the most part.

The next part that hit me is "staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready..." Do I stand ready? Are my arms open and outstretched, ready for Him? I would like to think so, but I imagine that my arms are crossed and I am running around trying to do everything, rather than standing and waiting on Him.

"This is the unending life, the real life!" Do I live as if loving God is my main purpose? I show love to others, but that is not all there is to it. I once heard a preacher say, "Keep the main thing the main thing." Do I live as if God is first in my life?

"Be tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven." How many times do I turn away from sinners? I am called to love them. Not their sin, but them. Am I tender toward them?

"And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating..." Only God can keep me standing. Many times I put my faith in self, rather than in Him. He can keep me not only standing, but also standing tall, fresh, and celebrating. Who wouldn't want to describe their life in that way?

What hit you about these verses? Do you do everything possible to maintain your life with God? If not, you are in luck. God's mercies are new every single day. What could be better than that?

Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you*,

*Jude 1:2 NKJV

The Simple Woman Daybook September 22, 2008

2008-09-22T10:28:00.006-05:00

For Today...

Outside my Window... I see beautiful green trees, grass, and bright sunshine.

I am thinking...that I need to make a schedule, so that I can get everything done in a day.

I am thankful for...doctors that will listen to you and take your symptoms seriously.

From the kitchen...tonight I am making Chicken Tettrazini. I want to make my husband his favorite cookies, but it will depend upon how my back feels later today.

I am wearing...blue jean capris and forest green top. Barefeet.

I am reading...a Tracey Bateman book that I got from the library.

I am hoping...that my husband will get to be off tomorrow and that we can find a laptop that fits our budget and needs.

I am creating...a plan for my life.

I am hearing...the television playing "Greenovate."

Around the house...much needs to be done. Maybe the kids will help me some when they get home, since I can't do a lot with my back.

One of my favorite things...chocolate

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...buying a laptop, paying off my van, writing articles, and letting my back rest.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

I would love to be laying on my beach chair watching this view. Love the beach!

To read more, visit The Simple Woman. Have a blessed day!

Weekend Word

2008-09-20T19:06:00.003-05:00

Juggling Life and Pressing On

2008-09-18T07:00:00.006-05:00

Where have I been? Summer flew by with great fun and enjoyment. Here is a summary of what I have been up to.

June-We went on vacation with my parents and my brother. We enjoyed watching the dolphins from the balcony and feeling the little bitty fish nibble our feet and legs. I really enjoyed myself and am looking forward to the next one.

July-I turned 37 on the 15th. It was a normal type day, except that my hubby got me a cookie cake (my favorite). We went to the Station House for dinner with my friend who has a birthday on the 13th over the weekend.

August-My baby started pre-K. It took me a few weeks to get over the fact that she was gone and the house was quiet, but I have started settling in now and am beginning to enjoy it. School started for me on the 20th.

September-Work, school, and back pain. My back is known for "going out" at the most unusual times. Buttoning my pants, putting on deoderant, getting koolaid off the shelf, and bending over are just a few of the activities that can set it off. It went out near the end of August and I went to the doctor only to find that my back was s-shaped. I did some physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and was feeling better, when...it went out again. So, I am dealing with it again. My desk chair is the only chair that I can get out of without a great deal of pain, sooo.....anyways, I am trying to take it easy. At least the muscle spasms haven't come with this back attack.

What has been up with you?

Here is my verse for today (it is quite fitting for where I am at today):

Pressing On,

The Simple Woman's Daybook September 10, 2008

2008-09-17T12:01:00.002-05:00

For Today...

Outside my Window...Sun trying to peek through the clouds, freshly mowed yard

I am thinking..."I finally finished those last two articles!"

From the kitchen...Had boring Oats and Honey granola bar for breakfast...about to go fix me a couple of eggs for lunch

I am wearing...Jean capris, gray Lee University t-shirt

I am reading..."Isolation" by Travis Thrasher...more info on The Nearsighted Bookworm

I am hoping...that my back continues healing and that I can get some homework done later today

I am creating...Not in the mood to create lately

I am hearing...television playing "Army Wives" that I DVRed

Around the house...My house needs to be cleaned, but I am afraid I will mess up my back again. I will do some laundry in a bit and will stack the dishes for J (my son) to work on later.

One of my favorite things...is sitting at the beach reading a book. I hope I get to do that in October with my husband!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...cleaning some, two midterms, trying to get all of the information from my classes organized, working on more articles

To read more, visit Peggy!

Smiles and Loves,

Skid by Rene Gutteridge

2008-05-30T20:47:00.000-05:00

This was a very fun and exciting read. Although it had many funny parts, it still had enough action in it to keep my attention. I really enjoyed it.

GREAT NEWS! I have one copy of Skid to give away to one lucky commenter. Leave me a comment telling me a joke or something funny and I will put you in a drawing for this wonderful book. Drawing will be June 7th.

About this Book:

Blissfully unaware that Atlantica Flight 1945 from Atlanta to Amsterdam is about to make aviation history, First Officer Danny McSweeney focuses his energies on navigating the turbulent personalities of an eccentric female captain, a co-pilot with a talent for tactless comments and conspiracy theories, and a lead flight attendant with an outsized attitude that definitely exceeds the limits for carry-on baggage.

On the other side of the cockpit door, the unscheduled in-flight entertainment includes a potbellied pig, a jittery diamond courier, and the recently jilted Lucy Meredith, whose personal mantra of “What Would Oprah Do?” will be challenged by the sudden appearance of her ex and his new traveling partner. On her left sits Hank Hazard, whose unusually polite but constant requests–prompted by his covert role as a spy for the airline–test the limits of the crew’s customer service. But as Lucy and the rest of the crew discover, Hank’s odd behavior is linked to a quiet faith that may play a key role in the fate of everyone on board. Especially when an unexpected traveler sets this already bumpy flight on a course toward the unfriendly skies.

About the Author:

Rene Gutteridge is the author of twelve novels, including the Boo series, the Storm series, and the novelization for The Ultimate Gift, as well as Scoop and Snitch, the first two Occupational Hazard novels. She lives with her husband, Sean, and their two children in Oklahoma City.

To purchase this book, click here.

Smiles and Loves!

Is It Summer Yet?

2008-05-16T08:19:00.002-05:00

I can tell that my kids are ready to get out of school. The meltdowns that we are having every single morning tell me that they are ready to sleep late and hang out with mom.

Yesterday, J (son, 12) had his meltdown because his alarm did not go off at 6 and he didn't wake up until 6:30. Now, those of you who have had the pleasure of having my son sleep over know that he is up at the crack of dawn. If he doesn't get up when he wants to, woe to those who are around him. Yes, he had plenty of time to get ready, but he missed his show at 6 and that is catastropic to him.

This morning it was darling K (daughter, 8) who had on daisy duke shorts that I vetoed. She was not happy with me that I wanted her to wear shorts that cover her bottom. Darn that mom!LOL

The last two mornings, I left early to take them to school, simply because they were driving me bonkers. Am I a bad mom for wanting to only slow down and push them out of the van while driving by? I didn't do that, but I am just saying.....

Thank God it is just one more week. What are ya'll up to?

Smiles and Loves!

Winners....

2008-05-07T07:15:00.002-05:00

I have two winners today!

The winner of My Soul to Keep is WindyCindy.

And

The winner of A Mending at the Edge and Clearing In the Wild is Carole.

Thanks everyone for entering and come back for more! More giveaways are coming up soon!

Smiles and Loves,

The Winner of Do the Hard Thing Is....

2008-04-28T16:49:00.004-05:00

WindyCindy!

Thanks to all that entered! Next giveaway is later this week!

The Winner of Do the Hard Thing Is....

2008-04-28T16:49:00.001-05:00

Don't You Just Love My New Look?

2008-04-28T08:05:00.002-05:00

I am just so excited about my new look that I won for free during the Bloggy Giveaways! Trisha did a marvelous job with it and I could not be happier. It is a great way to start off a new week!

What is up with me? I am still going to school, which has been quite a trial for me this semester. With three classes, work, kids, and life, my plate has been quite full. I had decided to take two classes during the first summer session as well, but my hubby has encouraged me to take the summer off. He keeps reminding me that "it is a marathon, not a sprint." That is very true, and, as it is A's last year at home (she starts school in August), it will give me a few weeks with her alone without the stress of school.

Otherwise, life is just trucking on. I am so excited about my life right now! Lots of things are beginning to come into focus. God is so good-all the time! What have you been up to?

Smiles and Loves!

Blog Construction

2008-04-26T22:45:00.000-05:00

A Mother's Heart Knows

2008-04-25T17:55:00.002-05:00

Are you looking for the perfect Mother's Day gift for your mom? If so, you will want to check out A Mother's Heart Knows. This book is perfect for gift-giving to the favorite moms in your life. This touching book will be a great way to let her know exactly how much you love and appreciate her. To purchase this book, click here ( it is only $3.99 at Amazon! What a deal!).

About the Book:

What better way to tell Mom how much you appreciate her on Mother's Day than with this lovely reminder of thoughts about the loving, selfless attitudes that fill a mother's heart?

The text and original four-color illustrations will be a beautiful and touching reminder to Mom that her love is never forgotten. The text is a reminder of those things that only a mother's heart knows, with some special emphasis on a Christian mother. Appropriate Scripture verses will be incorporated into the design element.

All royalty proceeds from this book go to WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger) and a student missionary scholarship fund. WINGS is a non-profit organization that provides a domestic violence shelter for women and their children in addition to transitional housing and programs.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Don't Forget....

2008-04-24T09:52:00.003-05:00

I have three giveaways going on right now for books!

Do the Hard Thing

My Soul to Keep

Clearing in the Wild and A Mending at the Edge

To win, read the reviews for each and leave a comment!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

A Mending at the Edge by Jane Kirkpatrick

2008-04-23T07:38:00.000-05:00

Let me tell you how much I love the writing of Jane Kirkpatrick. Historical fiction is my favorite and she writes this so well! The Change and Cherish series that this book is part of is full of stories of God's love. I have so enjoyed reading each one of these books and am looking forward to more!

*****Guess what? Yes, it is ANOTHER giveaway! This giveaway is for the 1st and 3rd books in the series! Leave me a comment telling me what your favorite type of fiction is and you will be put into the running for these books! Drawing will be on Cinco de Mayo (May 5th). Don't miss a chance for free books! Other giveaways are in progress now, so check the earlier posts!

About the Change and Cherish Series:

A Clearing in the Wild
Spirited young Emma Wagner chafes at the constraints of her 1850s religious community, which values conformity over independent thought, especially in women. Skeptical of the colony’s growing emphasis on preparing for “the last days,” Emma clashes with their increasingly autocratic leader—and faces the unexpected consequences of pursuing independence.

A Tendering in the Storm
This lyrical novel, based on an historical figure of the 1800s, follows the spirited and intelligent Emma Giesy, who achieves her goal of separating her family from the repressive religious community in which she grew up. But unexpected and dire consequences leave her family—and her faith—struggling to survive.

A Mending at the Edge
This richly textured novel, the third in the acclaimed Change and Cherish series, follows the historical figure of Emma Wagner Giesy, who chafes under the restrictions of her 1860s religious colony. When her bid to belong in her unique way unravels her most precious relationships, she seeks new ways to stitch meaning into her life.

About Jane:

Jane Kirkpatrick is the best-selling author of two nonfiction books and fourteen historical novels, including the popular Kinship and Courage series. Her award-winning writing has appeared in more than fifty publications, including Sports Afield and Decision. She’s won the coveted Western Heritage Wrangler Award, an honor shared by such writers as Larry McMurtry and Barbara Kingsolver. Jane is a licensed clinical social worker as well as an internationally recognized speaker. She and her husband, Jerry, ranch 160 acres in eastern Oregon.

To win this book, see the above instructions. If you would rather purchase it than try to get it for free (are you sure?) or if you just cannot wait to begin this wonderful series, then click here!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

A Bride So Fair by Carol Cox

2008-04-22T12:00:00.002-05:00

If you enjoyed Carol's Fair Game, then you will love the newest book in this series, A Bride So Fair. To read the review and learn more about this book, visit my book review blog, The Nearsighted Bookworm.

Don't forget to sign up for my two giveaways that I am having! Scroll down for more information!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

My Soul to Keep by Melanie Wells

2008-04-18T09:59:00.003-05:00

From the first page until the last page, I was kept mesmerized by the action of this book. Suspenseful twists and turns will keep you wanting to read. If you have been looking for a fast-paced, action-filled read, then you need look no further!

**Multnomah/RandomHouse has sent me a copy to give away! Don't forget to leave a comment to win your own copy of this wonderful book! Or you can purchase it here.

About this Book:

As nasty as I knew Peter Terry to be, I never expected him to start kidnapping kids. Much less a sweet, funny little boy with nothing to protect him but a few knock-kneed women, two rabbits and a staple gun…It’s psychology professor Dylan Foster’s favorite day of the academic year…graduation day. And her little friend Christine Zocci’s sixth birthday. But the joyful summer afternoon goes south when a little boy is snatched from a neighborhood park, setting off a chain of events that seen to lead nowhere.

The police are baffled, but Christine’s eerie connection with the kidnapped child sends Dylan on a chilling investigation of her own. Is the pasty, elusive stranger Peter Terry to blame? Exploding light bulbs, the deadly buzz of a Texas rattlesnake, and the vivid, disturbing dreams of a little girl are just pieces of a long trail of tantalizing clues leading Dylan in her dogged search for the truth.

About Melanie:

A native of the Texas panhandle and the child of musicians, Melanie Wells attended Southern Methodist University on a music scholarship (she's a fiddle player), and later completed graduate degrees in counseling psychology and Biblical studies at Our Lady of the Lake University and Dallas Theological Seminary.

She has taught at the graduate level at both OLLU and DTS, and has been in private practice as a counselor since 1992. She is the founder and director of LifeWorks counseling associates in Dallas, Texas, a collaborative community of creative therapists.

When the Day of Evil Comes is her first published work of fiction, and the first of a three-book series. The second work, The Soul Hunter was released in May, 2006. Melanie lives and writes in Dallas.

Don't forget to leave a comment to be put into a drawing to win My Soul to Keep. If you don't win, you can purchase it here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Do Hard Things by Alex and Brett Harris

2008-04-16T07:11:00.002-05:00

As a former youth leader, I have long been concerned with the lack of drive and passion that some teenagers seem to have for God. Not all, but some teenagers take a lacksadaisical approach to every facet of their lives, which leaves them lacking when they hit their adult years. This book is for those kids who fall for the lies of Satan during these very important teenage years. They can turn their teenage years into the beginning of a life filled with Godly purpose and do not have to live as the world lives. This book was written by teenagers for teenagers and would make a great book for youth leaders to give their youth or for parents to read and pass on to their own teenager.

Great News! I have one copy of Do Hard Things to give away! Scroll down to see how you can get put into the drawing!

About this Book:

With over 10 million hits to their website TheRebelution.com, Alex and Brett Harris are leading the charge in a growing movement of Christian young people who are rebelling against the low expectations of their culture by choosing to “do hard things” for the glory of God.

Written when they were 18 years old, Do Hard Things is the Harris twins’ revolutionary message in its purest and most compelling form, giving readers a tangible glimpse of what is possible for teens who actively resist cultural lies that limit their potential. Combating the idea of adolescence as a vacation from responsibility, the authors weave together biblical insights, history, and modern examples to redefine the teen years as the launching pad of life and map a clear trajectory for long-term fulfillment and eternal impact.

Written by teens for teens, Do Hard Things is packed with humorous personal anecdotes, practical examples, and stories of real-life rebelutionaries in action. This rallying cry from the heart of revolution already in progress challenges the next generation to lay claim to a brighter future, starting today.

About the Authors:

Alex and Brett Harris founded TheRebelution.com in August 2005 and today at age 19 are the most popular Christian teen writers on the Web. The twins are frequent contributors to Focus on the Family’s Boundless webzine, serve as the main speakers for the Rebelution Tour conferences, and have been featured in WORLD magazine, Breakaway, The Old Schoolhouse, and the New York Daily News. Sons of homeschool pioneer Gregg Harris and younger brothers of best-selling author Joshua Harris (I Kissed Dating Goodbye), Alex and Brett live near Portland, Oregon.

To purchase this book for yourself or for a teenager that you love, click here.

I have one copy of this book to give away! To win a copy, leave me a comment on this post. Drawing will be on April 30th.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

If You Liked...

2008-04-11T08:20:00.002-05:00

Sue Monk Kidd's The Secret Life of Bees, you will love Nicole Seitz's Trouble the Water. To read more about Trouble the Water, visit my book review website, The Nearsighted Bookworm!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Outcasts of Skagaray by Andrew Clarke

2008-04-10T07:02:00.000-05:00

The author of this book, Andrew Clarke, contacted me to to see if I would like to review his book, Outcasts of Skagaray. I enjoyed reading this book. The universal struggle between good and evil is seen in this fantasy fiction book very clearly. The fast paced action kept my interest and the meaning behind the story captured my heart. In this world, it is sometimes necessary to step out and make a stand for what you believe in. Tarran, the hero, is making a stand against centuries of beliefs of the Skagaray people. When he makes his stand, he finds that others join him in several different ways. This book is great for high schoolers or for adults with its exciting story and impactful message. To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

About this Book:
The world of Skagaray is dark and bleak but there is the possibility of beauty and goodness too. The people of Skagaray respect strength, and hardness, and make gods in their own image to please themselves. They reject those they consider weak, or unworthy, and make outcasts of them. But one among them rejects their cruelty, and will not take part in the brutality they call their Proving.

About the Author:
Andrew Clarke was born in Malta in 1953 of an Australian father and British mother. He lived in England and Australia and had several jobs before he served in the Australian Army Reserve. He then studied for four years at the University of New England and taught English and History in New South Wales high schools for twenty five years. Always a lover of books and stories, Clarke began writing at the age of seven. Outcasts of Skagaray was written in response to what he loved about reading the history of peoples like the Spartans, Romans, and Vikings. Clarke and his wife Elizabeth have five children and live in Inverell, New South Wales.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Amber Morn by Brandilyn Collins

2008-04-09T07:23:00.001-05:00

I have long loved the writing of Brandilyn Collins and was very excited to get to review her latest book. This book is full of twists and turns, as well as God moments, that will have you enthralled from beginning to end. You will be delighted with this book that signals the end of the Kanner Lake series. If you love books with excitement and action, then you will want to read this book and check out the other writings of Brandilyn.

About this Book:

The whole thing couldn’t have taken more than sixty seconds.

Bailey hung on to the counter, dazed.

If she let go, she’d collapse—and the twitching fingers of the gunman would pull the trigger.

The rest of her group huddled in frozen shock.

Dear God, help us!

Tell me this is a dream . . .

The shooter’s teeth clenched. “ Anybody who moves is dead.”On a beautiful Saturday morning the nationally read “Scenes and Beans” bloggers gather at Java Joint for a special celebration. Chaos erupts when three gunmen burst in and take them all hostage. One person is shot and dumped outside.Police Chief Vince Edwards must negotiate with the desperate trio. The gunmen insist on communicating through the “comments” section of the blog—so all the world can hear their story. What they demand, Vince can’t possibly provide. But if he doesn’t, over a dozen beloved Kanner Lake citizens will die...

Amber Morn is the climactic finale to Collins’ widely read Kanner Lake series. All first three titles in the series, Violet Dawn, Coral Moon, and Crimson Eve, were bestsellers. Library Journal placed Crimson Eve on its Best Books of 2007 list, and hailed it the “Best Christian suspense of 2007.”

About Brandilyn:

Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense™. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline

“Don’t forget to b r e a t h e …®”

Brandilyn writes for Zondervan, the Christian division of HarperCollins Publishers, and is currently at work on her 19th book. Her first, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows. She’s also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons), and often teaches at writers conferences. Brandilyn blogs at Forensics and Faith. Visit her Website to read the first chapters of all her books.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

To read more book reviews, click here to visit my book review website, The Nearsighted Bookworm.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Generation NeXt Marriage by Tricia Goyer

2008-04-05T09:05:00.000-05:00

Although my parents did not divorce and are still married, I find that there are things in their marriage that I do not want to repeat. The chapter, "Revisiting Role Models", was especially poignant to me. I remember as a child listening to my parents fight and that made me feel so insecure and scared. As a parent today, I try hard to not fight with my hubby in front of my children. I want them to see parents who love on each other with hugs, kisses, and kind words, instead of fighting and upheaval. My parents still loved each other, even when fighting, but as a child, I did not get that. Making sure my children know what a healthy marriage looks like is important, so that they will know what to look for in their own relationships. This book had several chapters that resonated with me, so I am sure that you will find information that you will find helpful in strengthening your marriage.

About this Book:

Do you still find yourself humming the love songs of the 80s and 90s?

Do you still believe that every marriage should be between soul mates?

But -- do you wonder how you can succeed at love and marriage when the generation you grew up in didn't?

Marriage isn't what it used to be-it can be better than ever.

If you are a Gen Xer, your marriage has challenges and potentials that no other generation has known. A Gen Xer herself, Tricia Goyer offers realistic help to achieve the God-honoring marriage you long for. She includes:

·Ways to protect your marriage despite the broken relationships modeled in your youth

·Stories, suggestions, and confessions from fellow Gen Xers facing the "What now?" question of real-life marriage

·Advice from the ultimate marriage survival guide: the Bible·Stats, quizzes, sidebars, and study questions related to this "relationally challenged" time in history

·Practical helps for negotiating kids, work, sex, money, and dirty laundry-sometimes all in the same evening

If you are part of a generation of adults who don't want to bow to their culture or live and love like their parents did -- this book is for you.

About Tricia:

Tricia Goyer is the author of twelve books including From Dust and Ashes, My Life UnScripted, and the children's book, 10 Minutes to Showtime. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Tricia's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like Today's Christian Woman and Focus on the Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in the mountains of Montana.

To learn more about keeping your marriage strong and healthy, you can purchase it here or here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

When Zeffie Got a Clue by Peggy Darty

2008-04-04T07:23:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun read that had me guessing until the end. If you like fun mysteries then you need look no further!

About this Book:

It’s an ordinary afternoon in Summer Breeze, Florida, when a young, wide-eyed girl steps into I Saw It First, the trash-to-treasure shop Christy Castleman and her Aunt Bobbie have opened. Clutching a jewelry box, Zeffie Adams tells Christy she needs money to pay her grandmother’s medical bills, prompting Christy to offer this curious visitor more than the jewelry box is worth–or so she thinks.

But complicated questions form when Christy rips out the box’s lining and uncovers a clue to a cold case murder mystery from eight years ago. Despite warnings from her family and handsome boyfriend Dan Brockman, Christy decides to do a little detective work of her own. After all, the infamous murder happened close to her grandmother’s farm. How risky could it be to take the jewelry box back to the Strickland plantation and ask around about it?

Soon Christy finds there is more to the small box than someone wants her to know. A jewelry theft. A mansion murder. Dangerous family secrets buried in history. Can Christy convince others to let go of the past before it’s too late?

About the Author:

Peggy Darty is the award-winning author of twenty-seven books, including two other cozy mysteries set in Summer Breeze, Florida: When the Sandpiper Calls and When Bobbie Sang the Blues. She has worked in film, researched for CBS, and led writing workshops around the country. Darty and her husband call Alabama home but spend a great deal of time in Colorado, Montana, and on Florida’s Emerald Coast.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

A Forgotten Gospel by Mark McGrath

2008-04-03T07:02:00.001-05:00

This book was written to those of us for whom evangelizing does not come naturally. The author says that only 10% of us have this gift, which lives 90% of us who struggle with sharing the Word. I am part of that 90%. It has never come very naturally to me. I liked his thoughts regarding what we need to concentrate on when evangelizing. The cross is usually where we start, but that is not how Jesus did it. We need to concentrate more on the resurrection and the hope that came with that. It is important that every Christian learn how to spread the Word. That is what this book is all about. I really enjoyed this book and am even going to reread it to soak more of it in. To learn more about this book or to purchase it, visit http://www.aforgottengospel.com/.

About this Book:

Does the thought of obeying the Great Commission make you feel inadequate, unprepared or just plain nervous? Have you encountered quizzical looks or outright laughter when using words like “God,” “sinfulness” or “salvation” in conversations? Are you uncomfortable about sharing your faith because you don’t want to alienate friends and family from on-going conversations? While all of these issues are common and understandable, even a quick reading of the Book of Acts shows that New Testament believers didn't share these same struggles. What was their secret? While preparing to teach the basics of evangelism to his church, one pastor noticed that today’s popular witnessing techniques were very different from those used by first-century believers. Digging further, he saw that every gospel presentation in the Book of Acts contained the same essential elements and emphasized one central theme. A Forgotten Gospel explains the same easily remembered, New Testament method that’s been taught on university campuses and churches in the U.S. and England. You’ll learn how to use this same flexible approach to effectively communicate the good news. No longer will you wonder what to say or how to say it. By following the conversational approach explained in A Forgotten Gospel, you'll be ready to clearly and confidently share your faith without alienating friends and loved ones.

About the Author:

As a church-planting pastor for 25 years, Mark McGrath has struggled to reach non-believers with the gospel, finding surprising answers to his questions in the gospel presentations made in the Book of Acts. He has started churches in New York, New Jersey and Great Britain, conducted evangelism-training programs for churches around the world, and has run a school of evangelism.

Mark conducts evangelism training with several national Campus ministries at Rutgers University in New Jersey and has launched an updated version of both the weekend and small group evangelism seminars he developed. These seminars will be available to churches across the U.S. An accomplished speaker and trainer, Mark owns a communications skills training company that provides training and coaching in communication, facilitation, listening and meeting leadership skills to executives and professionals.

The Winners Are....

2008-04-01T15:12:00.002-05:00

Experiencing the Resurrection goes to Carolynn W.

and

Family Squeeze goes to Carole!

Thank you for all of the entries ladies!

Keep looking for more giveaways coming soon!

Blessings! Janis

Family Squeeze by Phil Callaway

2008-03-24T07:51:00.000-05:00

This book was a funny and inspiring read all rolled up into one. I just cannot say enough about this book. It was easy to read and has so much meaning in the laughter and stories.

Warning: Giveaway Ahead! Scroll Down!

About the Book:

You’re in the “Middle Ages”–sandwiched between the “greatest generation” and the “gimme” generations, busily juggling both with no relief in sight. Children are driving, and parents are not. Money is tight and so are your favorite jeans. And things that never ached before are beginning to give you trouble! For every baby boomer who wonders if it’s possible to navigate the Middle Ages with grace and style, Phil Callaway offers plenty of hope and a little hilarity, too. Because there’s nothing like a smile to make wrinkles less noticeable.

About Phil:

Described as “Dave Barry with a message,” author, speaker, and television host Phil Callaway has written twenty books, many of them bestsellers and is a popular speaker at conferences, camps and marriage retreats, coaxing laughter and tears from audiences worldwide. Of his personal accomplishments he rates the following highest: shutting off the TV to listen to his children’s questions (twice), taking out the garbage without being told (once), and convincing his high school sweetheart Ramona to marry him (once).

I have a copy of this one to give away! To enter, tell me something funny about your family. Drawing will be on April Fool's Day, April 1st!

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Experiencing the Resurrection by Henry and Melvin Blackaby

2008-03-21T07:49:00.000-05:00

This is a perfect book for Holy Week, which just so happens to be this week. I have enjoyed reading it and reflecting on the meaning of the events of Easter. It, of course, can be read any time of the year, but it is more meaningful around this time of the year, when so much emphasis is on the more commercialized meaning of Easter.

I Have A Giveaway For This One! Scroll Down For More Information!

About the Book:

What does the resurrection of Christ really mean for us? What does it reveal about the heart and mind of God? And what real differences can the miracle of the resurrection make in your life today?

Discover answers to those and other questions as you examine God’s Word with this companion study guide to the book Experiencing the Resurrection by Henry Blackaby and Melvin Blackaby.

Packed with practical notes, advice, and questions for reflection, this highly interactive guide—ideal for small group or individual use—shows you how to witness Christ’s resurrection in and through your life. Each chapter of the book is explored in a flexible one-week format with “life change objectives” that arise from applying the truth for each day to your life.

About the Authors:

Dr. Henry Blackaby, president emeritus of Blackaby Ministries, is the author of more than a dozen books, including the best-selling classic Experiencing God. He has spent his life in ministry, serving as a music director and as a senior pastor for churches in California and Canada. Today he provides consultative leadership on prayer for revival and spiritual awakening on a global level. He and his wife make their home in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dr. Melvin Blackaby coauthored with his father, Henry Blackaby, the Gold Medallion winner Experiencing God Together. He travels extensively as a conference speaker. He and his wife and their three children live in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada, where he serves as senior pastor of Bow Valley Baptist Church.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Great News! I have one copy of this little gem to give away to one of my readers! Leave a comment telling me what Jesus means to you and be entered into a drawing for your very own copy! Drawing will be Monday, March 31st!

Blessings to you! Janis

The Winners Are...

2008-03-20T09:23:00.001-05:00

The winners of "Hope Through the Journey of Cancer" are Katie and Grateful Gramma! Thanks everyone for entering!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Seeing Through the Lies by Vonda Skelton

2008-03-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

Are you tired of the lies that Satan feeds you? I certainly am. This book exposes those common lies that Satan uses to stop us women from fulfilling our potential. It came at a very good time for me and I am sure that you will find it very revealing and inspiring.

About this Book:

We have been seduced by half-truths and whole lies since time began. Remember the garden? In Seeing Through the Lies, author and speaker Vonda Skelton humorously addresses the disappointments women experience as they search for truth while believing a lie. Each chapter opens with amusing anecdotes from real life and ends with answers and guidance straight from God s Word. Exploring topics such as pride, fear, motherhood, and the busyness of life, this book offers practical steps for peeling away the layers of deceit and finding the joy of living in real truth. Through honesty and humility, Vonda takes women on a hilarious journey through all things female and brings them to a soul-searching point of decision. Readers will identify with both the positive and negative examples of women in the Bible, and will be encouraged by Scripture, as well as quotes from notable men and women. Each chapter ends with five steps for exposing the lie and embracing the truth of God s Word.

Are you striving to be a woman of excellence, but feel you're landing somewhere between mediocre and unfit?
Do you want to be your husband's lover, but feel more like his mother?
Are you convinced that busyness is next to godliness?
Are you trying so hard to be everything to everybody that you feel like you're nobody to anybody?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're not alone--you've simply fallen victim to the lies of Satan! But you don't have to be seduced by his masquerade any longer. Join the fun as we take a hilarious journey through all things female on our search for real truth in a counterfeit world.

From spider veins and webs of deceit to cartoon characters and feminist funnies, Seeing through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe will help you recognize the lies and take joy in the light of His Truth.The suggested Bible readings, small group discussion questions, and meditations on the very words of Jesus will help you discover not only the lies that bind you, but the keys that set you free.

Listen, girlfriend, it doesn't matter who you are or where you've been or what you've done, God is ready to give you a fresh start on a new life--one that can only come through the acceptance of His unchanging truth.

About Vonda:

Vonda Skelton is an entertaining speaker with a heart for women and their families. Her first women's book, Seeing through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe, "takes a hilarious look at all things female as we search for truth in a counterfeit world." Her first two books are part of the Bitsy Mystery Series for children 8-14 years old. The third book in the series, Bitsy and the Mystery at Hilton Head Island, will be released in the spring of 2008.

An RN and freelance writer, Vonda's articles frequently appear in magazines such as HomeLife, Christian Single, Focus on the Family publications, and New Man Magazine. An award-winning playwright and lyricist, her scripts have been performed in churches around the country. She is a frequent instructor at writer's conferences and enjoys mentoring and encouraging new writers.

As one who tries--and often fails--to be like Christ, Vonda is thankful God continues to take her messes and use them for His glory!

Great news! Vonda has created a gift basket for readers of the blog tour for her new book. By leaving a comment on my blog, you will be in the running for a gift basket that you will absolutely flip over. Here are the contents:

Designer Gift Box (looks like a piece of luggage with the words "Faith, Family, Friends" on the exterior).
One copy each of three books by the author: Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe, Bitsy and the Mystery at Amelia Island, Bitsy and the Mystery at Tybee Island.
A stretchy bracelet with Sterling Silver Beads, Gold Swarovski Pearls, Turquoise and Blue Zircon Swarovski Crystals and Sterling Silver Masquerade Mask Charm.
Bookmark custom-made with Sterling Silver Beads, Gold Swarovski Pearls, Turquoise, Blue Zircon and Clear Swarovski Crystals and Sterling Silver Masquerade Mask Charm on a 4.75 inch Silver Plated Bookmark.
Gold Tri-fold picture frame.
Pewter-colored oval picture frame.
Jeweled decorated cross.
Peanut caramel clusters.
Caramel Truffles.
Mini-Yankee Candle.
Three-pack sample tea bags.
Sample Columbian Supremo Coffee.
Oh My! Itty Bitty Chai Packet.

Don't forget to leave a comment! To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Have a blessed day! Janis

The Winner of The Next Level Is....

2008-03-17T21:24:00.002-05:00

Stamped With Grace!

Visit her here and congratulate her! Come back soon for other giveaways, including the one that I will draw for later this week! Blessings to you!

Janis

16 Years Ago Today...

2008-03-17T01:32:00.001-05:00

My boyfriend (my husband today) called me and told me that my best friend was killed in a car accident. Since then, this day has not been about wearing green, but about remembering her life, her laughter, and the fun that she brought into my life. Here is my memorial to my best friend forever, Kelly Franklin.

Sixteen years it has been since I have laughed with you and spent time with you. It is almost a lifetime, since it was almost half of my life ago. You were gone much too soon, my friend. Twenty years old is much too soon to leave the earth. You had sooo much to look forward to in your life. My life has changed so much since that Tuesday sixteen years ago. I am now a wife and a mom (One of which I named after you). You would have been such a wonderful "aunt" for my kids. They will never know what fun and joy you could have brought into their lives. Even 16 years later, I have not found someone to replace you. Yes, there are those who come close, but no one else can make me laugh and have fun like you. Maybe it was the time of life that we were in when we were friends, but I am so sure that we would still be friends today. We loved each other so much. It is hard to think about that day that I railed against God for taking you. It was like my heart had been torn out of my chest. It shaped every step that I took from that moment. It was hard to let people in to get to know the real me after that. I can only say that within the last three years have I been able to shed some of that pain and hurt and allow myself to be known as I truly am. You are so loved and so missed here by me, your parents, your sister, your brother, and so many more people who were so touched by your life. You will always be my sister of the heart, KA. I love you.

Do not stand at my grave and weep

I am not there; I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,

I am the diamond glints on snow,

I am the sun on ripened grain,

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circling flight.

I am the soft starlight at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry,

I am not there; I did not die.

How to Survive Your Teen's Pregnancy

2008-03-15T11:26:00.000-05:00

Teenage pregnancy is a problem that many Christian families find themselves faced with. This book is for the parents of that teenager who is pregnant. Practical advice from beginning to end to help you make it through this journey with your child. From the doctor's appointment to telling friends to supporting your child to the birth of the baby, you will find each step that you will be going through. This can help you to survive this journey with your child with both your Christianity and relationship intact. I was this pregnant college kid almost 13 years ago and I wish that my mom and I had found information like this. It can happen in any family, even if you go to church, love God, and have wonderful parents.

About this Book:

Written in a devotional format, the author uses her twelve years of pregnancy center counseling experience to lovingly address the issues facing the parents of a pregnant teenager. Real-life stories, practical help, and creative activities provide Biblical insights for successfully navigating this difficult situation.

About the Author:

Linda Ellen Perry ahs counseled hundreds of families since 1990 as the Executive Director of Assist Crisis Pregnancy Center in Annandale, Virginia. She has seen the Lord turn the sorrow of an unexpected pregnancy into joy.

To purchase this book yourself, you can go here or here.

Have a blessed day! Janis

Hope for the Journey Through Cancer by Yvonne Ortega

2008-03-13T07:37:00.000-05:00

If you or someone you know has cancer, you know how it can disrupt your life. Hearing that you have cancer can strike fear into even the strongest of person and this book can help you to keep your faith and hope through this scary journey. This book is full of inspirational readings that can keep you focused on God through this part of your life. It is transparent and written by someone who has been there. If you are on a journey through cancer or know someone who is, you will want to pick up this book or enter the contest to win one of two copies of this book.

About this Book:

Would you go to work wearing a surgical mask and surgical gloves? Yvonne Ortega did during aggressive chemotherapy. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it's important to realize that cancer is a difficult illness to face. Ortega gives a message of hope and encouragement for those who are struggling with the devastating effects of cancer in her book Hope for the Journey through Cancer.

The book offers 60 short inspirational readings, each containing a part of Ortega's own story from diagnosis to recovery. She shares her personal triumphs and setbacks with humor and refreshing candor, with hope builders to remind us that even when it looks like we are alone, God is with us each step of the way. Hope for the Journey through Cancer is written in a caring and compassionate voice from one who has been there.

Ortega says, "Receiving a diagnosis of cancer is a devastating experience. Our lives are never the same. We are not losing our minds. We are frightened, and this is natural. It's okay to cry. If we look around, we will see we are not alone. God would never think of abandoning us." In sharing this experience, Ortega helps readers see that, though cancer is a difficult illness to face, they do not have to face it alone.

About Yvonne:

Yvonne Ortega is a licensed professional counselor, a licensed substance abuse treatment practitioner, a clinically certified domestic violence counselor, and a member of the Virginia Board of Counseling. She celebrates her sixth year as a breast cancer survivor. Ortega is an inspirational speaker to groups of all sizes and makes her residence in Yorktown, Virginia.

If you or someone you know is going through a cancer journey of their own, enter to win a copy of this book. All you have to do is leave a comment and you will be in the drawing. The drawing will be held on Wednesday, March 19th.

Be Blessed! Janis

The Next Level by David Gregory

2008-03-12T07:07:00.003-05:00

Parables were Jesus' way of bringing knowledge to His world and they have the same power today. In The Next Level, you will find yourself looking at your own life in a new way to have you considering what your life purpose is. It is an easy read that makes you think about your own life and its God-given purpose. If you have been looking for that next level in your life, then this is the book that you will want to read.

About this Book:

Business degree in hand, Logan enters the immense Universal Systems building and is hired as an organizational analyst – a trouble-shooter. His job: evaluate the company’s five divisions, each on a separate level and each operating on startlingly unique principles. Which set of principles is successful? Why is most of the company’s profit generated by one tiny division? What is real profit, anyway? And who is the enigmatic executive that Logan ends up reporting to?

Logan engages in a life-changing pursuit for The Next Level—a fascinating parable that will help readers answer some of life’s most perplexing, vital questions. Joining Logan in evaluating each level’s approach, readers will be inspired to consider the big picture of their own life from an entirely different perspective – one that holds the key to life’s ultimate purpose. No matter where you are now, get ready to embark on your own passionate pursuit of The Next Level.

About the Author:

David Gregory is the author of the best-selling books Dinner with a Perfect Stranger and A Day with a Perfect Stranger, and coauthor of two nonfiction books. After a ten-year business career, he returned to school to study religion and communications, earning graduate degrees from The University of North Texas and Dallas Theological Seminary. A native Texan, David now lives in Oregon and devotes himself to writing full time.

Great news! I have a giveaway copy of this one - compliments of Waterbrook Press! To enter, leave a comment. I will draw for it on Monday, March 17th.

To check this book out for yourself, you can click here or here. To read more of my book reviews, visit me at The Nearsighted Bookworm.

Have a blessed day! Janis

Taming Rafe at The Nearsighted Bookworm

2008-03-04T09:41:00.003-05:00

Today, I have the pleasure of hosting the blog tour for Taming Rafe over at The Nearsighted Bookworm. To read the full review and learn about how to enter Susan's contest, visit me over there! This book was such a joy to read and was perfect for taking me away from the sickness that has been reigning in my home for the past 13 days.

Yes, the germs are still in control over here at Dandelion Momma's house. If I had a dime for every temperature we have had, cough that we have coughed, and nose that has been blown, I would be a rich momma. Unfortunately, there are no dimes and no rest for momma's with sick kidlets.

How are you doing this week? I hope you are well! Be Blessed! Janis

Book Reviews, Life, and Other Stuff

2008-02-27T07:57:00.002-05:00

Normally, I review Christian fiction on my blog at The Nearsighted Bookworm, but I have been privileged this week to get to review two non-fiction books that I think that you will enjoy. The first, "The Mom I Want to Be," explores how we move past our past experiences to become the mom that we are desiring to be deep in our heart. T. Suzanne Eller wrote this wonderful book that I really enjoyed.

The second book, "Closer Than Your Skin: Unwrapping the Mystery of Intimacy With God," is full of Susan Hill's personal experiences of her journey to a closer walk with God. This book came at a time that I really needed some encouragement and was such a blessing to me. To learn more about these two books, jump over to The Nearsighted Bookworm to read the reviews. I also have a giveaway going on that ends Friday for the fictional book, "Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear," if you are interested.

Life just goes on and on and on. Here is a countdown of my last week:

Last Tuesday-Thursday-My four-year old has stomach virus. Not fun.
Last Friday-Sunday-My eight-year old goes from fever and not feeling well on Friday night and Saturday to stomach virus on Sunday. Still not fun.
Monday-My twelve year old stays home from school with fever, cough, and congestion.
Tuesday-My four year old and hubby have fever and not feeling well
Wednesday-Repeat of yesterday so far.

What is going on in my house? I am going to bathe it in Lysol today. It is soooo getting on my nerves! Oh, that is not to mention the Two tests that I need to do this week for New Testament Survey and Sociology, nor the fifteen articles and 15 rewrites that I needed to get done this week. If you think about it, send up a prayer for me! I am sure going to need it! I am down to 1 test, 13 articles and 7 rewrites as of this minute. I am going to go curl up on the couch with my sick baby and work on the laptop for the rest of the day. What has your week been like? I hope that everyone is well!

Have a blessed day! Janis

Valentine's Day Recap

2008-02-15T09:32:00.002-05:00

I can definitely say without a doubt that yesterday was the best Valentine's Day that I have ever had. No, I did not get diamonds or gold, but I got something much more important. I had the pleasure (and pride) of watching my family love on each other. I decided that we were each going to tell or write a note to each other describing why we love them. I wrote my notes to my hubby and the kids, KA wrote her notes, A just told each person that she loves them (she is just 4), J went around to each person and told why he loved them and played us a song on his sax, and my hubby told each child and me what he loved most about each of us. It had me crying at a few points, just because it was so touching. I bought the kidlets some candy and hubby brought them candy as well. We turned it from just a holiday for us to a holiday for the entire family, which was so much better. Yes, I did receive my coveted box of Turtles that I receive every year, but I also received a memory that will last a lifetime, which is much longer than the Turtles will last! What did you do for Valentine's Day?

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Things I Love...

2008-02-14T08:21:00.002-05:00

As today is Valentine's Day, what else would we discuss today?

I love...

-To watch my husband with our children. Nothing else melts my heart quite as much as this.

-To watch my children playing together. No, not when they are fighting, but when they are actually getting along.

-To walk through a bookstore with no purpose in mind.

-To walk through a thrift store with no purpose in mind.

-To talk to my husband in bed late at night.

-To pick up my children from school every day.

-To write an article and get a compliment on it.

-To talk to my friends about nothing at all.

-To curl up on the couch, under a blanket, and read a good book.

-To surprise my husband.

-To watch my daughters curl up in their daddy's lap.

-To watch the kids swarm their dad when he comes home at night.

-To hug.

-To have time to cook cookies and other treats for my kids.

-To sit in my mom's lap (yes, still at the age of 36 and much too heavy).

-To sit on the couch with my dad.

-To send cards to friends and family.

-To learn.

-To make my house into a home.

-My friends.

-My family.

What do you love? Have a day filled with love and enjoyment!

Smiles! Janis

Book Reviews

2008-02-02T09:33:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for a new book to read, check out my new reviews over at The Nearsighted Bookworm. The world of Christian fiction has expanded to include many different sub-genres, including action, romance, mystery, and more. It is very exciting to be a part of the explosion of new books!

A giveaway is also on my other blog. If you like free stuff (who doesn't?), then check it out!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Cell Churches

2008-01-29T09:10:00.001-05:00

Does anyone else out there in blogland attend a church that uses cell ministry? We have been attending one for almost five years and I have to say that it has been a real blessing to me. I know some people will not agree with me, but everyone has their own opinion. In our church (The Crossing), we have regular church on Sunday morning and night and then meet in same sex cells one time during the week, where we have a lesson and camaraderie with this group. The cells meet in the cell leader's home in most cases, which makes it an ideal situation to invite those that are unsaved, because it is not as intimidating. I have met some very dear friends through the cell ministry and it gives you a group that you can always count on to pray for you and listen to you. In a large church like ours, this can be very important, so that people do not feel left out. What do you think about cell ministry or have you ever heard of it?

Sound off, ladies! Smiles and Loves! Janis

When Life Is Good...

2008-01-28T09:27:00.000-05:00

The tendency is to lay off of Bible study and just do it under our own power. I find this especially true in my own life. Life has been pretty average lately, with no major ups and downs, and this is the worst time for me in regards to my time in the Word. It should not be that way, however. We should use this time to gain strength for the coming battle ahead - for it is sure to come. No battles yet that I can see, but I did spend time with God this morning. I don't want to be overcome by the storms. I want to weather them with grace and peace. By spending time with Him every single day - no matter whether life is good or not, I can gain that strength. God was just waiting on me to realize that I need Him all the time. Not just during the bad times. Why did it take 36 years to figure this out? I must be a S-L-O-W learner! God is so patient with me and I thank Him for that. I surely must be frustrating to Him, yet He still loves me. That is so amazing to me! What has God been speaking to You about this week? Share with me via email (Words2Moms@aol.com) or leave a comment.

Don't forget to sign up to win 101 Cups of Water over at The Nearsighted Bookworm. The drawing is February 1st! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Are you Tired and Weary?

2008-01-23T08:38:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel tired in your soul and mind? Do you feel like you are simply hanging on for the ride on the merry go round of life? As moms, this is something that constantly has to be battled, simply because we are wired to take care of others. I reviewed a book that has really encouraged me called 101 Cups of Water and I am giving away a copy over at The Nearsighted Bookworm. If you are interested, click the link and leave me a comment.

God didn't mean for us to live our lives merely hanging on. He wants us to be present in each and every moment. That is why we need to stay in His Word and depend on His strength to get us through.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Beloved Castaway by Kathleen Y'Barbo

2008-01-16T08:59:00.000-05:00

If a book set on the high seas calls to you in this cold month of January, consider Beloved Castaway. The story of love and redemption will keep your interest and allow you to rest and relax in your warm house. What could be better?

To read more of this review, go to The Nearsighted Bookworm.

Have a blessed day! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Book Review, Devotions, and Fun...Oh, My!

2008-01-11T08:48:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a fun book to read during a cold, winter night, then check out my newest review of Happily Ever After by Marilynn Griffith here. It was a very good read with a wonderful message about the value of Christian friends.

Are you in the Word? Find out more about the habits of the Proverbs 31 woman here at my new devotional blog, Words 2 Moms. Going through the Proverbs 31 list of skills of that elusive woman has really been blessing me and other women. Join us on our journey!

In our house, not much has been happening. Today is my dh's birthday. He is such a wonderful blessing to me. No matter what dream I have, he is right there beside me, encouraging me and rooting me on. He is my biggest fan. He is a wonderful father as well. God has so blessed me with him and I am so proud to be his wife. Happy Birthday, honey! Here is a picture of us that we included on our Christmas card.

Have a blessed day! Smiles and Loves! Janis

What Kind of Food...

2008-01-09T08:36:00.000-05:00

Are you feeding your family? To read more about what God says about this subject, visit Words 2 Moms. Have a wonderful and blessed day!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Men are from ?, Women are from Earth

2008-01-08T09:29:00.000-05:00

Have you ever noticed how differently men and women react to things? I have. Today, I took KA to school for the first time since "the incident." I walked her in so that I could talk to her teacher (a man). I said, "KA was bit by a dog over the Christmas break. Her lip was torn and she had 40 stitches. " He said, "Well, at least her face is still all there." I said, "It was traumatic for her." I then walked out. All the way to the car, I was fuming. I could have frailed him! I can just see the headlines in the paper, "Crazy Mom Attacks 2nd Grade Teacher." I think that I could have beat the rap for assault. If it had been a woman, she would have hugged KA and been sufficiently sympathetic, but nooooooo, she had to get a man, who thinks that since her face is still connected, then everything is fine. MEN!!!!!!

Anyways, I guess he just couldn't think of anything to say, so that just came out, but it was not what I expected this morning. Oh, well! Onward and upward! I hope you have a wonderful day, full of joy and love!

Have a blessed day! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Proverbs 31 Woman

2008-01-03T10:53:00.000-05:00

Do you read Proverbs 31 and shudder to think of trying to be that woman? God didn't put that verse in the Bible to make you feel unworthy. He put that in there as a guidebook for living! Visit Words2Moms to learn more about the Proverbs 31 woman as we journey through these verses this month!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

New Year...New Beginning

2008-01-01T10:07:00.000-05:00

New Year’s Day brings to mind resolutions and new beginnings for most people. This day is when thousands of people all over the world begin their diet, their exercise program, stop smoking, start reading their Bible, and other things that they feel that they need to change in their lives. For Christians, however, there is no need to wait until New Year’s Day to begin anew, because God brings us new mercies each and every day....

To read the rest of this devotion, visit me over at my new devotion blog here. I would love to have you!

Happy New Year! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Thoughts on the New Year

2007-12-31T16:49:00.000-05:00

As I sit here alone at the computer (yes, everyone is gone!), I am contemplating the New Year. My new Franklin Covey compact planner is sitting here all neat and clean, just itching for me to write in it, but before I begin I wanted to think about my goals for the New Year. You see, 2007 was an okay year for me. I have grown quite a bit over the last year and am learning and seeing the direction that God is leading me in, which is quite exciting. 2008, however, is the year that I am going to begin to see those dreams take shape and that is truly scary and wonderfully exciting in its own way. What are my goals for 2008?

1. To write a devotion for moms 3 to 5 days/week. These devotions will become the foundation for a book that God has placed on my heart. Yes, this is a big step for me, but I believe that God is going to equip me. If He calls you, then He will equip you, if you only believe.

2. To move more from writing articles that simply fill space on someone else's website (even though they make me money and I enjoy it most of the time) to writing meaningful articles that are meaningful and give me satisfaction for knowing that I am doing what I am supposed to do. Not sure what direction that is going to be in yet, but am excited to see what God has planned for me.

3. To live every day with purpose and in God's will. This is a big one, but even if I mess up, I get to start over the next day. Isn't God good?

4. To work more on teaching my children through my actions about God's love and mercy. I am a yeller and I got it quite honestly from my mom, who was also a yeller. That is no excuse, however, so I am going to work on showing them God's love through not yelling and not losing it quite as often.

5. To be a better helpmate for my husband. I am opinionated, loud-mouthed, and a bit pushy sometimes, but I want to begin to let him take the reins more, especially with the kids. This is difficult when he works so much, but it can be done if we can learn to balance.

6. To do my best at everything I do. I am a procrastinator, but I want to move away from that habit into a new one where I actually do things when I say I am going to. This is a lifelong habit of mine, but with God's help, I can get it done.

7. To be healthier. I am not going to say that I am going to lose weight or exercise or blah, blah, blah, because I have said it every single year. If I can just eat healthier and exercise every once in a while in 2008, surely it would make a difference. Won't it?

A New Year is a time to think back on what God has done for you in the last year and to evaluate where you feel that He is leading you in the next year. I am sure that God has all sorts of things in mind for me (and you!) in the next year. I only want to handle them in the way that He would have me to do. What are some of your goals for the next year? To read another post on this, visit Marybeth at www.marybethwhalen.com. She blesses me every single time I visit!

On the personal front, KA went to the doctor today and had some of the stitches taken out of her face. She looks so much better and the doctor said he didn't have to see her again if everything looks fine when she is through healing! Praise God! He is soooooo good! It could have been so much worse. I just thank Him for His protection over her and His awesome healing. What a great way to begin a New Year! Me and the hubby are going to a friend's house tonight for a party, so I hope you all have a wonderful and blessed New Year!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Dog Bites, Christmas Gifts, and Life...Oh My!

2007-12-26T11:18:00.000-05:00

Well, the Christmas season here at our house started off not so well. Sunday morning, while I was at church, my sister called to let me know that she was taking my middle child, KA, to the hospital. It seems that her Great Dane had decided to bite my 8-year old in the face. As my sister is known for her overreactions, I had calmed down considerably on the 30-minute drive to the hospital, only to find that this time she was not overreacting. KA was lying in the hospital bed when I arrived, so when I saw her, I was very taken aback to find that about half of her bottom lip was not connected to her face. The doctor managed to stitch her back together physically after almost 40 stitches, but mentally she is still not quite herself. If you think about it, can you say a prayer for her? Eight is such a young age to not be feeling like you are beautiful. She is not interested in going to church this Sunday, so I am going to stay home with her and read the Bible, since her stitches don't come out until Sunday.

Christmas gifts were way too much this year. My hubby got me lots of good things, including two different Bibles that I had requested, the Alias boxset, and more. My mom outdid herself, as she does every single year, for me, my husband, and the kids. It was a good day that was only slightly overshadowed by KA's injury.

School for me starts back on the 9th. The kids go back on the 8th, so life will be back to business in just a few weeks. I am enjoying the down time for now.

How was your Christmas? What are you looking forward to in 2008?

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Distant Heart by Tracey Bateman

2007-12-21T20:32:00.000-05:00

About this Book:

In the second book in the Westward Hearts trilogy, will the promise of a new life out west heal the scars of Toni's past?

This series tells the stories of three strong women as they struggle to survive on the rough wagon train and lose their hearts to unlikely heroes along the way. Think Little House on the Prairie meets Francine river's Redeeming Love and you begin to get a sense of the riveting historical series that Tracey Bateman has created.

In this second installment, we follow Toni Rodden, a former prostitute who sought to escape her past and build a new life, and a new reputation, when she joined the wagon train. Despite much resentment and distrust from the other women, Toni has finally earned a place on the wagon train and found a surrogate family in Fannie Caldwell and her two siblings. For the first time in her life, Toni actually feels free.

But while Toni once harbored dreams that her new life might include a husband and family, she soon realizes the stigma that comes with her past is difficult to see beyond and that she'll never be truly loved or seen as worthy. As the trip out west begins to teach her to survive on her own, she resolves to make her own living as a seamstress when the train finally reaches Oregon.

But despite Toni's conviction that no man will be able to see beyond her marred past, Sam Two-feathers, the wagon scout and acting preacher for the train seems to know of a love that forgives sins and values much more than outward appearances. Will Sam have the confidence to declare his love? Will Toni be able to trust in a God that can forgive even the darkest past? Faith, love, and courage will be put to the test in Distant Heart.

About Tracey:
Tracey Bateman is the award-winning author of more than twenty-five books, including Defiant Heart, the First in the Westeard Hearts series. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and recently served on the board as President. She loves in Lebanon, Missouri, with her husband and their four children.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

I hope that you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

What Lies Within by Karen Ball

2007-12-14T16:26:00.000-05:00

Karen Ball has long been one of my favorite Christian authors, so I was thrilled to be able to review one of her books. This book was just as good as others I have read over the years and the best part is that I had already read the first two books in this series, so the characters and their stories was familiar to me. This is a great stand alone book, however, so even if you haven't read the first two, you will still find yourself very involved in the story and in the character's lives. If you have been looking for a book to curl up on the couch with, then this is it!

About the Book:

Nothing’s going to stop Kyla…

until the ground crumbles beneath her feet.

Kyla Justice has arrived. Her company, Justice Construction, is one of the most critically acclaimed, commercially successful companies in the Pacific Northwest. And yet, something is missing. Not until she’s called on to build a center for inner-city kids does she realize what it is: her sense of purpose. Now nothing can stop her, not the low budget, not supply problems, not gang opposition, not her boyfriend’s suggestion that she sell her business and marry him–and most especially not that disagreeable Rafael Murphy.

Rafe Murphy understands battle. Wounded in action, this Force Recon Marine carries the scars–and the nightmares–to prove it. Though he can’t fight overseas any longer, he’s found his place as a warrior in the civilian world. So he soldiers on, trusting that one of these days, God will reveal to him why Rafe survived the ambush in Iraq. That day has arrived.

Kyla and Rafe both discover that determination alone won’t carry them through danger and challenges. When gang violence threatens their very foundations, there’s only one way to survive: rely on each other, be real–and surrender to God. In other words, risk everything…

About Karen:

Karen Ball , bestselling novelist, is also the editor behind several of today's bestselling Christian novels. Her love for words was passed down through her father and grandfather - both pastors who shared God's truth through sermons and storytelling. Blending humor, poignancy, and honesty, Karen's writing style is a powerful force for revealing God's truth. She lives in Oregon with her husband, Don, and their "kids," Bodhan, a mischief-making Siberian husky, and Dakota, an Aussie-terrier mix who should have been named "Destructo."

To purchase this book for yourself, click here. You will not regret it!

Have a beautiful and blessed day! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Around the World in 80 Dates: Confessions of a Christian Serial Dater

2007-12-10T18:56:00.000-05:00

I LOVED this book! It was such a fun read that I devoured it over just one night. It is the epitome of what Christian chick-lit should be - fun and inspirational. If you are looking for a good book to read over the Christmas holidays or for a gift for a book lover on your list, then you will want to consider this book. To read an excerpt, you can click here.

About the Book:

Sydney Alexander is a travel writer. She’s a very well dressed travel writer—hasn’t yet met a shoe or clearance sale she could pass up. She’s funny. She’s got a great relationship with her sis. She’s got a hilarious best friend, Rain, who happens to be a hippie. And, she’s got a wonderful relationship with God. So what’s missing?A decent date.

A date where she doesn’t have to pay because he’s “between jobs.” A date where she’s not fabulously fashionably ready to go only to learn “the band just got a last minute gig” and he has to cancel. A date she wants to kiss goodnight—not run screaming from the curb.

Bridget Jones may have had a few more public disasters (Sydney works in print not on the telly), and considerably more cigarettes (Sydney doesn’t smoke), but really, besides that, their lives really aren’t so different. She’s just a girl, looking for love, drowning in a sea of cute couples, determined to keep swimming.

About Christa:

In addition to possessing a funny, whip-smart pen, Christa Ann Banister has the gift of gab.

She talks. And talks. And she keeps on talking. Maybe this is in part what separates her from the mighty throng (or small army) of chick-lit writers working today, other than the fact that her dynamite debut novel, Around the World in 80 Dates, is already creating a tidal wave of underground buzz. That’s right. After years of working as a respected music critic and freelance writer for various Christian publications: CCM Magazine, Crosswalk.com, Christian Single, ChristianityToday.com, not to mention kickstarting the inaugural Christian music blog for MTV’s Urge.com, Christa has inked her first novel about her erstwhile adventures in dating, and she hopes that her story will inspire countless twenty and thirty-somethings in their quest for snagging Mr. Right, even as they hold fast to their Christian values.

Inspired by authors Judy Blume and Jane Austin, and a host of other writers including F. Scott Fitzgerald and C.S. Lewis, Christa tells the tale of Sydney Alexander—a gal who is not shy about life, her faith, or her career as a travel writer. Yet finding her lifelong soul mate proves to be a bit more elusive than she had originally thought.

“In a lot of chick-lit books it seems like the girl’s ultimate goal is to get the guy,” Christa says. “And she wants to get the guy for sure, but she’s very ambitious as well, and she loves life and is willing to try all kinds of different adventures—all without letting go of her Christian values.”

And in answer to the question of whether this romantic roller-coaster is fact or fiction, Christa plays coy: “I’ll have to be honest and say that the experiences that Sydney, the lead character, goes through in the book are very similar to experiences that I’ve had in the past. And of course I had to protect the guilty, so I changed a few names and a few situations, but some of situations were inspired by actual events.”

In the end, Confessions is a novel that is full of pluck and wit, and humor, and it is a shoo-in to become a classic for any guy or girl who is in the throes of navigating the pitfalls and quirks of the single life, all without letting go of what they believe.

Christa lives in St. Paul, Minnesota with her husband, Will. They love to play Scrabble and throw darts on a map and dream about going wherever the darts land someday. They have no pets.

And until her book hits the New York Times bestseller list, Christa is happily employed as a freelance writer for her many, many clients.

To purchase this book for yourself or as a wonderful Christmas gift, click here.

Have a blessed day! Smiles and Loves! Janis

A Shadow of Treason by Tricia Goyer

2007-12-08T16:07:00.000-05:00

This was such a wonderful book! I just love historical fiction books and this one met every one of my favorites! I am going to see if the library has the first book, so I can get caught up on the beginning of the story. This is how much I loved them. Tricia Goyer has written many different books that are historically based as well, so I may have found me a new favorite author.

About this Book:
Sophie discovers that nothing is as she first imagined. When Walt, the reporter who helped her over the border, shows up again after Guernica is bombed, Sophie is given an impossible mission. She must leave behind the man she's fallen in love with and return to the person who betrayed her. Another layer of the war in Spain is revealed as Sophie is drawn into the international espionage schemes that could turn the tide of the war and help protect the soldiers from the International Brigade ... she must find a way to get a critical piece of information to Walt in time.

About Tricia:
Q: A Shadow of Treason follows A Valley of Betrayal. This is the first time you've written books as a series instead of stand alone. Which way do you like better?

A: I love writing in series. It was great to continue with the same characters. In my stand-alone books I fell in love with these people and then I had to say good-bye after one book. It was wonderful to be able to continue on.

Q: In A Shadow of Treason Sophie must return to the person who betrayed her in an effort to help the Spanish people. It makes the book hard to put down because the reader has to know how Sophie's heart will deal with it. Why did you decide to make this an element of the book?

A: There are very few of us who go through life without giving away a part of our hearts to someone who didn't deserve it. Even though Sophie had the best intentions, she gave away her heart and she was hurt-not only that she must revisit those emotions.

I wanted to include this element-to delve into the topic that emotions are sometimes as big of a trap as any physical cage. Emotions are real and they guide us -- even when we don't want to admit it. Poor Sophie, not only does she have to deal with a war around her -- she also has to deal with a war within herself. It's something I've battled, and mostly likely others have too.

Q: There is an interesting element that arises in this book and that is Spanish gold. I know you can't tell us what happens in this book, but can you give us a brief history of this gold?

A: Sure. When I was researching I came upon something interesting. The Spaniards, as we know, had taken much Aztec and Inca gold during the time of the conquistadors. Well, at the start of The Spanish Civil War much of this gold was still held in Madrid. In fact Spain had the fourth largest gold reserves in the world at that time. The Republican government was afraid Franco would take the city and the gold. They had to get it out of Madrid and this included transporting priceless artifacts. The element of gold does make its way into my story. It was great to include this little-known (and true!) element into my story.

Q: Another historical fact I learned about was the Nazi involvement during this time. Not only were the Germans active in Spain, but they had spy networks busy around the world. How did you find out about this?

A: I love reading tons of research books. Usually I find one little element that I dig out and turn into a plot line. This is what happened with my plot-line for the Nazi pilot, Ritter. I dug up this bit of research of Nazi involvement in Spain -- and the United States -- because a lot of people aren't aware of the Nazi involvement prior to WWII. The truth is they were busy at work getting the land, information, and resources they needed far before they threatened the nations around them. The Germans knew what they wanted and how to get it. And most of the time they succeeded!

Q: A Shadow of Treason is Book Two. When will Book Three be out? Can you give us a hint of how the story continues?

A: Book Three is A Whisper of Freedom. It will be out February 2008. The characters that we love are all still in the midst of danger at the end of Book Two. Book Three continues their stories as we follow their journeys in -- and (for a few) out -- of Spain. It's an exciting conclusion to the series!

To check this book out for yourself (you can read the first chapter!), click here. To purchase it, you can click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Bluegrass Peril by Virginia Smith

2007-12-06T19:26:00.000-05:00

This was a wonderful read. It was a quick read that was fun and exciting. It kept me guessing "who dunnit?" until the end. If you are looking for a good book to curl up on the couch with on a cold winter's night, then Bluegrass Peril is just the book you are looking for. Small, easy to hold and easy to read-what could be better?

About the Book:
WHO KILLED HER BOSS?

Local police had tagged single mom Becky Dennison as their prime suspect. But she'd only been in the wrong place at the wrong time...admittedly, with her boss's lifeless body. Sure it looked bad, but Becky had no motive for killing...even if she had opportunity.

When the director of the retirement farm for thoroughbred champions is murdered, Becky Dennison teams up with the handsome manager of a neighboring horse farm, Scott Lewis, to find her boss's killer. Soon the amateur detective are hot on the trail of the murderer...even as their feelings for each other deepen.

The amateur sleuths uncover a trail of clues that lead them into the intricate society of Kentucky's elite thoroughbred breeding industry. They soon find themselves surrounded by the mint julep set - jealous southern belles and intensely competitive horse breeders - in a high-stakes game of danger, money, and that famous southern pride.

And for Becky and Scott, this race on the Kentucky tracks has the greatest stakes of all: life or death!

About the Author:
Virginia Smith left her job as a corporate director to become a full time writer and speaker in the summer of 2005. Since then she has contracted eight novels and numerous articles and short stories.

She writes contemporary humorous novels for the Christian market, including her debut, Just As I Am (Kregel Publications, March 2006) and her new release, Murder by Mushroom (Steeple Hill, August 2007). Her short fiction has been anthologized, and her articles have been published in a variety of Christian magazines.

An energetic speaker, Virginia loves to exemplify God’s truth by comparing real-life situations to well-known works of fiction, such as her popular talk, “Biblical Truths in Star Trek.”

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

For Parents Only by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa A. Rice

2007-11-30T20:31:00.000-05:00

This book was so insightful and well done! This is a great book for those who are blessed to have a preteen or teenager at home. It is full of helpful information about what is really going on in their mind, so that you can better understand them. I really enjoyed reading more about what my child is thinking and going through, because it is definitely a different world for them than it was for me. If you would like one of these books for yourself, leave a comment. I will draw a winner on Friday, November 7th to celebrate the end of my first semester back at college!

About the Book:

For every bewildered parent, there’s a kid longing to be understood.What parent hasn’t occasionally looked at their beloved but bewildering offspring and wondered, "What in the world is he thinking?" or "Why is my sweet little girl acting like that?"

In this remarkable book, Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice take you inside the mind of teens and preteens through the same innovative approach that seized national attention in the best-selling books For Women Only, For Men Only, and For Young Women Only. They explore the results of a nationwide survey and personal interviews with more than 1,000 real-life teens and tweens to tackle those things parents often don’t “get” about their kids. You’ll hear first-hand about the longings that drive your kids’ seemingly illogical decisions, the truth behind those exasperating “attitude problems,” and what your children would tell you if they could trust you to truly listen.

About the Authors:

Shaunti Feldhahn is a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist, public speaker, and a best-selling author whose books include For Women Only. After working on Wall Street and Capitol Hill, this mother of two now applies her analytical skills to illuminating surprising truths about relationships.

Lisa A. Rice is the associate editor of Christian Living magazine, the mother/foster mom of three teenager girls, and one teenage boy, and an experienced screenwriter and producer. She’s also the coauthor, with Shaunti, of For Young Women Only.

This book would make an excellent choice for a Bible study group of women with preteens or teenagers and as a gift for Christmas. Leave a comment to win one of two copies that I am giving away or you can purchase one here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Auralia's Colors by Jeffrey Overstreet

2007-11-29T20:21:00.000-05:00

If your reading tastes run more toward the fantasy world, then you will love this book. It is full of action and excitement that will keep you turning the pages until the end.

About this Book:
As a baby, she was found in a footprint.

As a girl, she was raised by thieves in a wilderness where savages lurk.As a young woman, she will risk her life to save the world with the only secret she knows.

When thieves find an abandoned child lying in a monster’s footprint, they have no idea that their wilderness discovery will change the course of history.

Cloaked in mystery, Auralia grows up among criminals outside the walls of House Abascar, where vicious beastmen lurk in shadow. There, she discovers an unsettling–and forbidden–talent for crafting colors that enchant all who behold them, including Abascar’s hard-hearted king, an exiled wizard, and a prince who keeps dangerous secrets.

Auralia’s gift opens doors from the palace to the dungeons, setting the stage for violent and miraculous change in the great houses of the Expanse.

Auralia’s Colors weaves literary fantasy together with poetic prose, a suspenseful plot, adrenaline-rush action, and unpredictable characters sure to enthrall ambitious imaginations.

Visit the Website especially created for the book, Auralia's Colors. On the site, you can read the first chapter and listen to jeffrey's introduction of the book, plus a lit more!

About the Author:
Jeffrey Overstreet lives in two worlds. By day, he writes about movies at LookingCloser.org and in notable publications like Christianity Today, Paste, and Image.

His adventures in cinema are chronicled in his book Through a Screen Darkly. By night, he composes new stories found in fictional worlds of his own. Living in Shoreline, Washington, with his wife, Anne, a poet, he is a senior staff writer for Response Magazine at Seattle Pacific University.

Auralia’s Colors is his first novel. He is now hard at work on many new stories, including three more strands of The Auralia Thread.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Kingdom Wars Hideous Beauty by Jack Cavanaugh

2007-11-29T16:33:00.000-05:00

I so loved this book! It really made me think of things in a different way, regarding the "behind the scenes" stuff that goes on in the political world and the things that are happening in the supernatural world that may be affecting our lives. The book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time and I couldn't put it down. If you are looking for a fast-paced, action-filled, supernatural thriller, then the first book in the Kingdom Wars series is the right one for you!

About the Book:

On a day that should have been the highlight of his literary career, Grant Austin discovers that his success has been no accident, but a carefully orchestrated plot by rebel angels who have been inserted into history as sleeper agents to alter human history. Now, Grant must battle forces of evil to stop them from assassinating the subject of his prize winning biography, the President of the United States.

About the Author:

Jack Cavanaugh is an award-winning, full-time freelance author with twenty-five published novels to his credit. His nine-volume American Family Portrait series spans the history of a nation from 1630 to the present and is still in print nearly fifteen years following its release.

A student of the novel for more than a quarter of a century, Jack takes his craft seriously, continuing to study and teach at Christian writers conferences. He is the former pastor of three churches in San Diego County and draws upon his theological background for the spiritual elements of his plots and characters.

His novels have been translated into a dozen foreign languages, largely because of the universal scope of his topics. Jack has not only written about American history, but about South Africa, banned English Bibles, German Christians in the days of Hitler and Communism, revivals in America, and angelic warfare.

Jack’s current writing schedule includes motion picture screenplays and e-book serial fiction with Internet distribution. His novel Death Watch has been optioned to be made into a motion picture by Out Cold Entertainment, Inc.

Jack has three grown children and lives with his wife in Southern California.

To purchase this book for your own library or for a gift (it would make a great one for a Christian fiction lover), click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

When the Morning Comes Winners Are....

2007-11-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

The wonderful winners for When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall are...

(As Chosen by the Random Number Generator)

#2-Lev53211

and

#8 Barb J. at Finding Contentment

Congratulations to both of these winners!

Be back later with a post! Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Meeting of Anni Adams-The Butterfly of Luxembourg by Lonnie D. Story

2007-11-26T12:57:00.000-05:00

This book is the story of Anni Adams, a teenager living through World War II in Luxembourg. Although it is not a book about the details of the holocaust itself, it does describe the life of a teenager living through the time of the holocaust watching her friend being taken away and the treatment of the Jews. It shows you how much the people were affected that lived in the countries that Hitler conquered and gives you an entirely new look on the war. The value of hope and perseverance is seen in Anni and her family as they live through their experiences and keep their faith in God and in man. It was a really great read that I enjoyed and will share with friends and family.

About the Book:

Born November 11, 1926 Anni Adams grew up traveling throughout central Europe with her professional gymnast father. By the age of fourteen, she had been throughout Luxembourg, Germany, Belgium and France. Then came the Nazi invasion. Everything Anni had known came unraveling at the seams. Evacuated from Luxembourg, she survived the poverty, humiliation, and uncertainty of refugee camps following the German occupation of her homeland. She eventually returned to her home and the submissive lifestyle of the Nazi rule, which she quietly resisted for more than four years.

About the Author:

Lonnie D. Story, was born in Macon, Ga in June, 1963. He attended grade school at Heard Elementary school and graduated to Cochran Field Christian Academy for 3 years where his writing skills were first recognized and honored. He won first place in the State finals for Short Stories written among private school students and attended the literary fair in Atlanta, Ga.

At the age of 22 years, He became a father to his only son, Shane. He was shortly thereafter divorced and left alone to raise him. He moved to Daytona Beach, Florida in 1989 with Shane, then three years of age. He worked full-time at night as a bouncer and other odd jobs, attended school full-time during the day and continued to raise his son for the following 15 years. He achieved 3 AS degrees, attended Warner Southern College for his Bachelor's Degree, and 6 months from graduation, was accepted into law school. He remarried in September,1997, continued law school, worked full-time and continued with his new family. He became divorced in February, 2002. He worked an overall 14 years as a paralegal performing both management, legal research & writing, investigations and all manner of other attachments to the profession.

He set out on his own as an independent, freelance writer, in February, 2003 and is presently working on on his second book, "Without A Shot Fired: The Dustin Brim Story."

To check out this book for yourself, you can visit Christianbook.com, Amazon.com, or BarnesandNoble.com. It would make an excellent gift!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Yada Yada Prayer Group by Neta Jackson and My Thanksgiving

2007-11-23T18:37:00.000-05:00

I have read some of the other Yada Yada books and this one was just as fun as the others. This book makes a fun read for any of your female friends who understand how important friendship is. If you have been looking for a fun read for you or for a gift, then consider this one. You will be glad you did!

About the Book:
Turkey dinners, tree trimming, and decking the halls--it's that time of year again! And I Jodi Baxter, can't wait to celebrate. My kids are coming home for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and then all of us Yadas are getting decked out for a big New Year's party.

But God's idea of "decked out" might just change the nature of our party plans. A perplexing encounter with a former student, a crime that literally knocks me off my feet, a hurry-up wedding, and a child who will forever change our family...it's times like these that I really need my prayer sisters.

This holiday season, we Yada Yadas are learning that no one can out celebrate God. So let's get this party started!

THE YADA YADA PRAYER GROUP GETS DECKED OUT is a festive novella featuring America's favorite prayer group, the Yada Yadas!

Sometimes dubbed "chick-lit" for their bright covers and catchy titles, this series provides far more depth than witty banter and wacky situations. Inspired by a prayer group of real women, each book will have you laughing, crying, and perhaps praying anew.

In this highly anticipated installment, the Yada Yada sisters-a group of multi-cultural friends-and their families prepare for the event of the season.

About the Author:
Neta Jackson's award-winning Yada books have sold more than 350,000 copies and are spawning prayer groups across the country. She and her husband, Dave, are also an award-winning husband/wife writing team, best known for the Trailblazer Books--a 40-volume series of historical fiction about great Christian heroes with 1.8 million in sales--and Hero Tales: A Family Treasury of True Stories from the Lives of Christian Heroes (vols 1-4).

Dave and Neta live in Evanston, Illinois, where for twenty-seven years they were part of Reba Place Church, a Christian church community. They are now members of the Chicago Tabernacle, a multi-racial congregation that is a daughter church of the well-known Brooklyn Tabernacle.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

______________________________________________________________

How was your Thanksgiving? My day was spent on the couch, due to my back going out. It was very lonely here when my family went off to my MIL's, but it was also very quiet, which was somewhat nice (or would have been if I had not been in pain). Anyways, today I am much better, so the time on the couch must have done the trick. I am still taking it somewhat easy, but at least I can get off the couch without crying now. Anyways, I hope you had a wonderful day with your family and friends.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Thanksgiving Memories

2007-11-21T09:46:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving stirs up all different sorts of memories for me. From the Thanksgiving that my previous aunt cooked spaghetti (I was shocked!) to the many Thanksgiving's spent in my great-grandmothers house to those spent with my in-laws, I have found that Thanksgiving is one holiday that causes me to think. Why? Because I have to psyche myself up for this day each and every year. It has become somewhat more difficult since I married, simply because I have to cook each year, but this year it is especially more difficult due to the fact that my back has went out and when walking, I look like an 100-year old woman. I will persevere over cooking the dressing, however, and I will have the proper attitude when sitting down for lunch tomorrow. (see, I am already working on it!LOL)

Thanksgiving traditions have fell by the wayside with marriage, too. My MIL has her dinner at the same time as the one at my great-grandmothers house (although she passed several years ago and it is my great-aunt's home now) and this has made it somewhat bittersweet for me. I love my MIL, but not spending Thanksgiving with your own family is difficult for me. Instead, due to work commitments, my family will be eating together on Sunday. Change is not something that I am particularly good with and this change is sucking some of the joy out of the holidays for me. I am trying to overcome it, but in combination with being in pain, it is not an easy thing to master.

What Thanksgiving traditions do you feel that you cannot live without? Whether it is a specific food, tradition, or location, let me know. I just want to see that I am not alone in my ramblings today!

If you have made it this far, please leave me a comment. Any comment on posts between now and Monday, November 26th, will be put into a drawing for a wonderful book, When the Morning Comes, by Cindy Woodsmall. To read more about this book, scroll down.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving! Smiles and Loves! Janis

When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall

2007-11-20T16:28:00.000-05:00

Those of you who enjoy the Amish-themed books will love this new book by Cindy Woodsmall. This is the second of the series, Sister of the Quilt, and is a great book to read by itself or in conjunction with the first book, When the Heart Cries. Randomhouse was kind enough to send me both books to read, so that I could get the complete feel for the series, and I just have to say that I loved them! If you are looking for a new series, then try this one out by Cindy Woodsmall.

About the Book:

Her relationship with former fiancé Paul Waddell in tatters, Hannah Lapp has fled her home in hopes of finding refuge with another Amish outcast, her shunned Aunt Zabeth in Ohio. Hampered by limited education and hiding her true identity, Hannah struggles to understand the confusing world of the Englischers and embrace unfamiliar freedoms, but a deepening friendship with the handsome Martin Palmer renews her courage to face the future.

Meanwhile, Hannah’s absence and the distressing events that led to her disappearance create turmoil among her loved ones in Owl’s Perch, Pennsylvania. Her father stubbornly refuses to search for her or to acknowledge increasing signs of instability in daughter Sarah, who suffers secret guilt over her sister’s ruined reputation. Fiancé Paul Waddell is wracked with regret over his betrayal of Hannah’s trust and is concerned with her whereabouts. He befriends Hannah’s remaining allies—brother Luke, best friend Mary, and loyal Matthew Esh—trying to convince them to help search for his love.

Rich with authentic details of Amish community and powerful in its theme of hope beyond measure, When the Morning Comes succeeds as a compelling follow-up to Cindy Woodsmall’s best-selling debut novel, When the Heart Cries.

About Cindy:

Cindy Woodsmall is an author, wife, and mother of three sons. Her first novel released in 2006 to much acclaim, including a Reviewer’s Choice Award from the Road to Romance website, and became a CBA bestseller. Her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families enrich her novels with authenticity. Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband and the youngest of their three sons.

The great news is that I have two copies of the newest book by Cindy available for you! Leave me a comment to get into the giveaway and I will draw on Monday, November 26th. If you don't win, you can still get this book for yourself by visiting here.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Try Dying by James Scott Bell

2007-11-16T22:07:00.000-05:00

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE James Scott Bell books and I was so excited to get notification that I was going to get to review his newest book. This book did not disappoint. If you haven't read books by this author before, this is a wonderful one to begin your obsession with. His books revolved around the law with just the right touch of Christian values-kind of like a Christian John Grisham. Try Dying is sure to keep you interested from the first page to the last.

About the Book:
On a wet Tuesday morning in December, Ernesto Bonilla, twenty-eight, shot his twenty-three-year-old wife, Alejandra, in the backyard of their West 45th Street home in South Los Angeles. As Alejandra lay bleeding to death, Ernesto drove their Ford Explorer to the westbound Century Freeway connector where it crossed over the Harbor Freeway and pulled to a stop on the shoulder.Bonilla stepped around the back of the SUV, ignoring the rain and the afternoon drivers on their way to LAX and the west side, placed the barrel of his .38 caliber pistol into his mouth, and fired.

His body fell over the shoulder and plunged one hundred feet, hitting the roof of a Toyota Camry heading northbound on the harbor Freeway. The impact crushed the roof of the Camry. The driver, Jacqueline Dwyer, twenty-seven, an elementary schoolteacher from Reseda, died at the scene.

This would have been simply another dark and strange coincidence, the sort of thing that shows up for a two-minute report on the local news--with live remote from the scene--and maybe gets a follow-up the next day. Eventually the story would go away, fading from the city's collective memory.

But this story did not go away. Not for me. Because Jacqueline Dwyer was the woman I was going to marry.

About James:
James Scott Bell is a former trial lawyer who now writes full time. He is also the fiction columnist for Writers Digest magazine and adjunct professor of writing at Pepperdine University.

His book on writing, Plot and Structure is one of the most popular writing books available today. The national bestselling author of several novels of suspense, he grew up and still lives in Los Angeles, where he is at work on his next Buchanan thriller.

To check this book out for yourself, click here. You will not regret it!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Winner Of Boo Humbug Is...

2007-11-14T14:03:00.000-05:00

The Winner of Boo Humbug Is...

PAM!

Another giveaway is coming up in

the next few weeks, so if you like

free books, check back!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Splitting Harriet by Tamara Leigh

2007-11-14T13:51:00.000-05:00

Who among us has not made mistakes in our past that we desperately do not want to repeat? In Splitting Harriet this theme is seen in the heroine, Harriet, who made mistakes in her past that she hasn't quite forgiven herself for. In not forgiving herself, she finds herself trying to live a "safe" life that she has created for herself. She finds during the book that living a safe life is not what God has in mind for her. He wants her to live a victorious, full life, just like He wants us to. This book is a marvelous example of learning more about forgiveness from God, those who love us, and ourselves.

About the Book:

Preacher’s kid and prodigal Harriet Bisset returned to her church and her family in Franklin, Tennessee, seven years ago. Once the proud owner of two tattoos and a nose ring, Harri is now addicted to Jelly Bellys in lieu of hangovers and Bible verses in lieu of foul language.

The good news is that she has everything under control: a part-time position as director of women’s ministry, a church family that adores her, a rent-free home in a senior mobile home park, and the possibility of owning the café where she waitresses. Nothing could tempt Harri to return to her old ways. Nothing but a 1298 cc, liquid-cooled, sixteen-valve, in-line four-cylinder motorcycle—and the church consultant riding it.

Reformed rebel Maddox McCray’s arrival at First Grace spells C-H-A-N-G-E for the dying church. And it just might mean change for Harri when Maddox sets out to convince her that even Christians are allowed to have fun.

The story of a prodigal daughter’s transformation, Splitting Harriet reminds readers of God’s delight in forgiving, loving, and enjoying the ride.

About Tamara:

Tamara Leigh’s first novel, Warrior Bride, was published in 1994 and was followed by six more bestselling, award-winning historical romances for Bantam, HarperCollins, and Dorchester. Leigh’s inspirational chick lit debut, Stealing Adda, was published in 2006 to great critical acclaim. Leigh has also written for Romantic Times magazine and been a guest speaker for WaldenBooks’s corporate conference. Leigh lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband and two sons and enjoys time with her family, volunteer work, faux painting, and reading.

This is an excellent book that you will definitely want to read. To purchase one for yourself, click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Deadfall by Robert Liparulo

2007-11-09T17:29:00.000-05:00

This was such an exciting book! From beginning to end, it kept my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat. If you enjoy your Christian fiction action and excitement filled, then Deadfall will definitely fit that mold.

About the Book:

Deep in the isolated Northwest Territories, four friends are on the trip of a lifetime. Dropped by helicopter into the Canadian wilderness, Hutch, Terry, Phil, and David are looking to escape the events of a tumultuous year for two weeks of hunting, fishing, and camping.

Armed with only a bow and arrow and the basics for survival, they've chosen a place far from civilization, a retreat from their turbulent lives. But they quickly discover that another group has targeted the remote region and the secluded hamlet of Fiddler Falls for a more menacing purpose: to field test the ultimate weapon.

With more than a week before the helicopter rendezvous and no satellite phone, Hutch, a skilled bow-hunter and outdoor-survivalist must help his friend elude their seemingly inescapable foes, as well as decide whether to run for their lives...or risk everything to help the townspeople who are being held hostage and terrorized.

An intense novel of character forged in the midst of struggle, survival, and sacrifice. Deadfall is highly-aclaimed author Robert Liparulo's latest rivetingly smart thriller.

About the Author:

Robert is an award-winning author of over a thousand published articles and short stories. He is currently a contributing editor for New Man magazine. His work has appeared in Reader's Digest, Travel & Leisure, Modern Bride, Consumers Digest, Chief Executive, and The Arizona Daily Star, among other publications. In addition, he previously worked as a celebrity journalist, interviewing Stephen King, Tom Clancy, Charlton Heston, and others for magazines such as Rocky Road, Preview, and L.A. Weekly.

Robert is an avid scuba diver, swimmer, reader, traveler, and a law enforcement and military enthusiast. He lives in Colorado with his wife and four children.

Robert's first novel painted a scenario so frighteningly real that six Hollywood producers were bidding on movie rights before the novel was completed. His acclaimed debut novel, Comes A Horseman, is being made into a major motion picture by producer Mace Neufeld and his short story "Kill Zone" was featured in the anthology Thriller, edited by James Patterson.

Bob has sold the film rights to his second book, GERM. And he is writing the screenplay for a yet-to-be-written political thriller, which sold to Phoenix Pictures, for Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, The Guardian) to direct!

He is currently working on his fourth novel.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Vase of Many Colors by Rachel Thoene and Catching Up

2007-11-06T08:07:00.000-05:00

I was sent Rachel Thoene's The Vase of Many Colors to review here on my blog and was surprised to find that it was a children's book. Since I happen to have three of those little critters of my own, I was also very excited to review a book that I could share with them. This book ranks right up there with Love You Forever, which has a special place on my bookshelf that is now shared by The Vase of Many Colors. Sometimes children's books need to have a meaning and this one is so full of the meaning of life and motherhood that I will most likely be buying it for shower gifts. It is a children's book, but it is also for moms, which is why it is such a great book to read with your children.

About this Book:

In the very small house, on the very grand hill, in the very small town author Rachel Thoene – daughter of veteran bestsellers Bodie and Brock Thoene - masterfully explores the captivating notions of forgiveness and grace in The Vase of Many Colors. This beautifully written and colorfully illustrated family tale peeks into the world of the very bouncy girl and her old, crooked grandmother. A world where rainbows appear on the walls and simple flower-gathering is a nightly ritual.

And where broken things are mended with the gentle breath of love to become a masterpiece for all generations to enjoy.

In a world where broken things are tossed aside with ease, Rachel Thoene’s story is a captivating reminder of the power of forgiveness and grace to mend life’s cracks and create a Vase of Many Colors in you.

About Rachel:

Rachel knows what it’s like to pick up broken pieces. As a site administrator at two alternative schools for at-risk students in an urban school district in Sacramento, California, she helps students put the pieces of their broken lives back together and discover success where there was only self doubt. As a mother, she finds new beauty in the hearts of her two children, Ian and Jessie. “Every person we come into contact with has the potential to be a beautiful and valuable work of art,” Rachel says. The inspiration for the story began as an email to a friend who was struggling with how to relate to her teenage son. When the story further developed, Rachel realized that the underlying message appealed to the experiences of adults and children alike.

To purchase this book for yourself or for a gift for a special mother that you know, click here.

Don't forget to comment on the Boo, Humbug! post to win a copy of the book. Scroll down for that post!

_____________________________________________________________________

What is going on with my world? WOW, has it ever been busy lately in our household! From moving our church across town to school to working to taking care of house and children to being me, it has been a busy last six weeks or so. The good news is that we have two Sundays under our belt at the new building and that is a huge relief to me. School (for me) is out for the holidays in five more weeks, which will be nice. Work has settled some. I am just not taking as many clients or jobs on right now, so that has made it easier and less stressful.

I am finding that I cannot do it all, even though I would like to. By categorizing things and placing a priority on what I need to get done, I am feeling better about myself and my workload. It has been two months of adjustment, but I am happy to say that I am finally starting to get into the rhythm-until something else jumps in, of course.

My weight is weighing on me right now. I am not healthy and that is scary to me. In fact, my weight is keeping me from the doctor, simply because I don't want to get on the scale and see how much I have let myself go. That is one area that I MUST work on next, but sometimes I just don't feel that I know where to start. I will do good for a while and then I fall off the wagon. I want to be healthy and feel better physically and mentally.

Anyways, that is all that is running through my head this morning. What is going on with you? I have missed visiting blogs, but hopefully that will get better as well.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Boo Humbug! by Rene Gutteridge and GIVEAWAY!

2007-11-02T23:03:00.000-05:00

It may be a little too early to think about Christmas much, but this book is definitely one you will want to check out! It is so funny! It is a short read, which is ideal for those busy holiday weeks and it is an excellent companion to a cup of hot chocolate and some sugar cookies. If you enjoy reading Christmas themed books during the holidays, this is one you will definitely want to add to your list!

About this Book:

Readers have come to love the eccentric characters from Skary, Indiana, in Rene Gutteridge’s popular Boo! series. Now, in Boo, Humbug! they’re back – and they’re stirring up a large amount of holiday havoc.

It’s Christmastime in Skary, and the town is planning an original production of A Christmas Carol with a horror spin. As showtime approaches, things go very awry for director Lois Stepaphanopolis. She panics when she discovers that her marketing director loathes Christmas and that the audience has been promised not Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, but the real Christmas story. Can the actors pull off the improv of all improvs and convince their community to embrace the true meaning of the Christmas season?

Boo, Humbug! offers readers a delightful glimpse into small town, community life with heartwarming humor and winsome characters. And in the end, the true meaning of Christmas shines out bright and clear, in a decidedly un-Skary way.

About Rene:

Rene Gutteridge is the author of 10 novels, including the Boo series, the Storm series, The Occupational Hazards series and My Life as a Doormat, a Women of Faith selection for 2006. She has been published over 30 times as a playwright, and holds a degree in screenwriting, graduating magna cum laude from Oklahoma State University. Rene is married to Sean, a musician, and they have two young children. They make their home in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

To purchase this book for your holiday reading list, click here.

What are you reading this week? As you can tell, I have been busy reading fiction, but I have also been throwing in a few non-fiction books as well. Do you have any holiday books that you especially love? Leave me a comment to tell me about the books that you love and you could win my copy of Boo, Humbug! for yourself! I will draw next Friday, November 9th, so that you will have it in plenty of time for the holidays!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Surrender Bay by Denise Hunter

2007-11-02T16:56:00.000-05:00

Who among us have not felt unworthy of love at some time or another? That is what this book is all about-learning that you are worthy of being loved by someone and by God. It was a wonderful story that kept me interested from beginning to end. I finished it in one night, simply because I didn't want to put it down.

About this Book:
When Sam's estranged step-father dies, she inherits his ocean-front cottage in Nantucket--not because he kindly bequeathed it to her, but because he neglected to ever create a will.

Sam returns to the island she left 11 years ago with her daughter Caden to fix up the house and sell it, but she isn't counting on is the fact that Landon Reed still lives two doors down from her childhood home.

As their long-dormant romance begins to bud again, Sam must face the fact that Landon still doesn't know why she really left the island. Will the secrets she's hidden all these years tear them apart? Or is Landon's love really as unconditional as he claims?

About the Author:
Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped.

Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

In addition to Surrender Bay, the second Nantucket book releases in April 2008. The title is The Convenient Groom and features Kate Lawrence, a relationship advice columnist, whose groom dumps her on her wedding day. Denise is currently at work on the third Nantucket book (Oct 2008) which is untitled so far.

To buy this book for yourself, click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Return by Austin Boyd

2007-10-31T23:23:00.000-05:00

I wasn't sure if I was going to like this one, simply because it is a little out of the "norm" in my normal books that I read, but I LOVED it! It was a great story set in the future with lots of science fiction and action that you will not expect. If you want a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then The Return will not disappoint!

About This Book:
IS SEEING BELIEVING?

Six years after completing a manned mission to the Red Planet, Admiral John Wells is set to make another journey to Mars. But this time his crew is not alone, as John's team encounters a secret colony comprised of individuals pursuing John Raines' strange religion, the "Father Race."

While John begins to uncover a web of lies on Mars, his wife and daughter are struggling for survival on earth. Now John must survive his dangerous mission and find a way back home, even as a shocking plan begins to unfold millions of miles away on earth.

Austin Boyd is back with his third thrilling novel in the Mars Hill Classified series, full of high-tech intrigue, memorable characters, and adventure that transports readers to another world.

From the Back Cover:With nothing left for him on Earth, Rear Admiral John Wells didn't hesitate to lead a third NASA team to Mars, but he never dreamed that one day they'd look out their laboratory module into the lights of a slow-moving vehicle not their own. In the third installment of the Mars Hill Classified series, life on Mars becomes increasingly more unpredictable as the past collides with the future and nothing, not even the dead, is as it seems.

Meanwhile, back on Earth, the fate of hundreds, including John Wells' family--presumed dead these last six years--rests precariously in the hands of Malcolm Raines, self-proclaimed Guardian of the Mother Seed and Principal Cleric of Saint Michael's Remnant, and his insidious plans for the Father Race.

Wells will find himself in a race against time and all odds to expose the truth: about Mars, about Malcolm Raines, and, if he's very brave, about himself.

About the Author:
Austin Boyd writes from his experience as a decorated Navy pilot, spacecraft engineer and an astronaut candidate finalist. Austin lives with his wife Cindy and four children in America’s “Rocket City”--Huntsville, Alabama, where he directs business development for a large NASA and defense contractor.

His creative talents include inspirational fiction and poetry, finely crafted reproduction colonial furniture, archery and long distance cycling. He serves his community as an advocate for a crisis pregnancy center and as a motivational speaker in the area of lifestyle evangelism.

THE RETURN is part of the Mars Hill Classified Series with The Evidence and The Proof.

To buy this book for yourself, click here.

Illuminated by Matt Bronleewe

2007-10-26T09:26:00.000-05:00

This book was AWESOME! I love books with just a bit of archaeology and history in them and this one perfectly fit the bill! There was action, adventure, and suspense, too, to help keep your interest from the first page until the last. The great news is that this is the first in a series of FIVE books like this! I am so excited! I would recommend this book to anyone who loves their books with some excitement!

About This Book:

IT'S BEEN 500 YEARS IN THE MAKING...PREPARE TO BE ILLUMINATED...

August Adams has failed his family before. He's sacrificed relationships in pursuit of adventure, fame, and money. Now the very lives of those he loves depend on his ability to decipher a centuries-old puzzle encrypted in the colorful hand-painted illuminations that adorn three rare Gutenberg Bibles.

It's a secret that could yield unimaginable wealth, undermine two major religions, and change the course of Western civilization. Two ruthless, ancient organizations are willing to do anything to get their hands on it. And August has the span of one transatlantic flight to figure it out.If he fails, those he holds most dear will die. If he succeeds, he'll destroy a national treasure.

The clock ticks, the suspense mounts, and the body count rises as August pits his knowledge and his love for his family against the clock, secret societies, and even Johannes Gutenberg himself.

About Matt:

Matt Bronleewe is a recognized producer, songwriter and author. The former member of the band Jars of Clay, has earned numerous awards producing and co-writing albums that have sold a combined total of over 20 million copies. His songs have recently been recorded by Disney pop sensations Aly & AJ, American Idol finalist Kimberley Locke, and more. Bronleewe has worked with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Michael W. Smith, International pop singer Natalie Imbruglia and Heroes star Hayden Panettiere.

Born in Dallas, Texas, Bronleewe was raised on a farm in Kansas, where he lived until he left for college in 1992. At Greenville College in Illinois, Bronleewe formed the band Jars of Clay with his dorm roommate and two neighbors, and the group soon found success. Though Bronleewe opted to leave Jars of Clay early on to pursue an academic career, he soon found himself in Nashville, co-writing, producing, and playing music professionally.

To add to his list of accomplishments, Bronleewe has expanded his love of story telling beyond music into authorship. He is currently penning a 5 book series for Thomas Nelson Fiction. Illuminated, in stores now, begins the adventurous series about rare manuscripts and the mysteries within.

Bronleewe currently resides in Brentwood, Tenn., with his wife and three children. He continues to write and produce music, and he also volunteers through his church to help disadvantaged youth in the community. Bronleewe enjoys reading, taste-testing good food and watching sports, as well as indulging his interests in art, architecture, design and science.

To purchase this book for yourself (you know you want to), click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Winners Are....

2007-10-22T15:43:00.000-05:00

The Winner of Life Unscripted is....

Sweet Mummy

The Winners of Mosaic are....

Summer-http://summersnook.com/
Daisyaday-http://giveuadaisyaday.blogspot.com/
Doreen-http://doreens-scrap-wonderland.blogspot.com/

Congratulations, ladies! I will be emailing you to get your addresses to get your winnings on the way! Have a beautiful week!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Mosaic by Amy Grant

2007-10-19T07:03:00.000-05:00

I remember the very first time I heard on of Amy Grant's songs. Coming from a traditional Baptist background, contemporary music was thought to be "not quite right", so it was very different for me to hear her music. I wasn't used to it, but I really liked it. It was my first foray into Christian music that was contemporary in nature. This book is a collection of experiences throughout her life that is accompanied by the songs that she is popular for. Her life is quite varied, with lots of ups and downs. It was very interesting learning more about her and her life. She is much like you and me, except for the fact that she lives her life in a glass fishbowl, where her every move is scrutinized. She is a mom, wife, daughter, friend, and Christian woman just like us that has struggles and questions just like us. That is what is so refreshing about this book.

About the Book:

Grammy Award–winning artist Amy Grant has lived in the spotlight since bursting onto the Christian music scene as a teenager thirty years ago. In that time her work, marriage, and spiritual life have been subject to varying degrees of adulation and criticism.

Now, in her first autobiographical book, Grant bares her heart and soul, giving readers an intimate glimpse into her everyday life and the lessons she’s learning along the way. From lighthearted reminiscences of her Tennessee childhood to painfully honest reflections on the journey of faith, her vivid writing draws readers into her world while simultaneously creating space for them to rethink their own perspectives on life.

With honesty and depth, Grant offers poignant and often startling insights on motherhood, marriage, friendship, faith, loss, forgiveness, and redemption. Never-before-shared stories about her husband, country music star Vince Gill, provide a look into her life as a celebrity, while intimate portraits of her mother and musings on the past reveal the various pieces of a life blessed with jagged edges as well as vivid colors. Readers will find their preconceived notions of this music icon stripped away as they settle in for a warmly satisfying conversation with a gracious and wise friend.

About Amy:

Amy Grant is the best-selling Christian music artist of all time and the first to garner the number one spot on Billboard’s chart. Since beginning her career at age 17, she has earned six Grammy Awards and twenty-five Dove Awards, and last year she received her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Grant’s numerous television appearances include Oprah; Good Morning, America; and Late Night with David Letterman. In 2007 she’ll tour nationwide, performing with local symphonies in Atlanta, Minneapolis, Kansas City, and elsewhere.

Click here to purchase this book for yourself!

Giveaway!

I have not one, not two, but three of these books to give away! If you are interested in winning one of these books, then leave a comment. Drawing will be Monday, October 29th!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Smiles and Loves! Janis

Crimson Eve by Brandilyn Collins

2007-10-18T06:45:00.000-05:00

I have loved Brandilyn's books for years. There are just full of action, suspense, and excitement, in addition to a good message about God. What could be better? This is the third book in a series, but it easily stands alone. Crimson Eve delivered on all of the expectations that I had for this book and more.

About the Book:
Carla stared at the gun and David Thornby—or whatever his name was. Her mind split in two, one side pleading this was some sick joke, the other screaming it was all too real.

“Please. You must have the wrong person. There’s no reason for someone to want me dead. I don’t have any enemies.”

“Then you’d best rethink your friends.”

Realtor Carla Radling shows an “English gentleman” a lakeside estate—and finds herself facing a gun. Who has hired this assassin to kill her, and why?

Forced on the run, Carla must uncover the scathing secrets of her past. Secrets that could destroy some very powerful people...

About Brandilyn:
Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense™. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline “Don’t forget to b r e a t h e…® ” She’s so well known in the industry there’s actually a club for her non-readers. That’s right. The Big Honkin’ Chickens Club (BHCC) members are proud of the fact that they’re too wimpy to read Brandilyn’s intense fiction. Now and then one of them tries. Bribing works pretty well. (Just ask Deb Raney.) Somehow they live to tell the tale.

Brandilyn writes for Zondervan, the Christian division of HarperCollins Publishers, and is currently at work on her 17th book. Her first book, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows.

She’s also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons), and often teaches at writers conferences. Brandilyn blogs at Forensics and Faith.

Visit her website to read the first chapters of all her books.

Have an awesome day! Smiles and Loves! Janis

My Life, Unscripted by Tricia Goyer

2007-10-17T07:17:00.000-05:00

The teenage years were not those of which I am very proud of. Mostly due to the fact that I was trying so hard to fit it and be "popular," that I lost who I was for a while. I think that many teenage girls fall into this trap, simply because you want to be like everyone else. This book is an excellent read for girls as young as 13 or so and, while geared toward more teenage life events, I enjoyed reading it, too. The premise behind the book is that if your teenager knew how to react to certain events, then they could make better decisions. This book is filled with scripts of certain events that they may come into contact with and they are discussed for both their good and bad points to help a teenager determine how they themselves would handle the situation. I really enjoyed the format and think that a teenager would as well.

A Brief Synopsis:

My Life, Unscripted explores relationships in every teenage girl's life--with herself, her friends and enemies, her parents, guys, and with God.

Real-life scripts, screenwriting terms, and timely topics, make this an interesting read for teen girls as they delve into their own inner struggles and outward relationships.They'll also learn the importance of "scripting" their own responses BEFORE challenging life-situations arise and are able to think about, pray about, and consider how to face these situations before the scene begins. By contrasting real-life with TV or movies, teens will understand they don't have to get caught up in the drama.

About Tricia:

Tricia Goyer has published over 300 articles for national publications such as Today's Christian Woman, Guideposts for Kids, and Focus on the Family, and is the co-author of Meal Time Moments (Focus on the Family). She has led numerous Bible Studies, and her study notes appear in the Women of Faith Study Bible (Zondervan).

She has written seven novels for Moody Publishing: From Dust and Ashes (2003), Night Song (2004), Dawn of a Thousand Nights (2005), Arms of Deliverance (2006), A Valley of Betrayal (2007), A Shadow of Treason (Fall 2007), and A Whisper of Freedom (Spring 2008).
Tricia is also the author of Life Interrupted: The Scoop on Being a Young Mom (Zondervan, 2004), 10 Minutes to Showtime (Thomas Nelson, 2004), Generation NeXt Parenting (Multnomah, 2006), Generation NeXt Marriage (Multnomah, 2008), and 3:16—the teen version of a book by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson, March 2008).

Life Interrupted was a 2005 Gold Medallion finalist in the Youth Category. Night Song was awarded the American Christian Fiction Writer's 2005 Book of the Year award for Best Long Historical Romance. Dawn of a Thousand Nights won the same award in 2006. In 2003, Tricia was named as the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference "Writer of the Year".

Tricia is also a mom to three, all of which she homeschools.

Giveaway!

I will be giving away one copy of this wonderful book. Please enter if you have a teenage daughter, granddaughter, or friend that you think could benefit from reading this! Just leave a comment and you will be entered! I will draw for a winner on Monday, October 22nd.

Never Look Back By Kathy Herman

2007-10-15T18:50:00.000-05:00

I was privileged to receive Ever Present Danger and Never Look Back, the first two books in the Phantom Hollow series by Kathy Herman to review. I just have to say that I sooo enjoyed both of these books. The story of redemption and faith in the first book and the story of God's forgiveness in the second book really spoke to me with their reality. I am a big fan of series of books and these by Kathy Herman have whet my appetite for more. I can't wait to read more of her books and more of this series!

About this Book:
The day Ivy Griffith walks out of jail after serving her sentence for withholding evidence in the Joe Hadley murder case, she is ready to put her years of pain and drug abuse behind her. A new job at her parents’ Christian camp in Colorado promises stability in this new season, but she is unprepared for her brother’s indifference toward her and her son, Montana. When camp worker Rue Kessler takes an interest in Montana, Ivy hopes the attention will make up for the rejection her son is feeling—and she doesn’t mind the attention Rue directs her way either.

Then a rash of crimes turns deadly, and Ivy suspects that Rue isn’t all he appears to be. But how can she condemn another when she knows the pain of accusation? The mysteries increase as Ivy struggles to move beyond the secrets of her past. Along the way, she discovers that the hardest person to forgive might be herself.

This fast-paced suspense novel continues the Phantom Hollow series with a rich exploration of the risks and possibilities of starting over.

About the Author:
Award-winning author Kathy Herman has been on staff at the Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) and at Better Books Christian Center in Texas. She has conducted educational seminars at CBA conventions in the U.S. and Canada, served as a judge for the Gold Medallion Book Awards, and worked as an independent product/marketing consultant to the CBA market. She is the author of twelve novels, including the bestsellers Tested by Fire and All Things Hidden. Kathy and her husband, Paul, live in Tyler, Texas.

To read this book for yourself, you can click here.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

School, Fun on Fall Break, Birthdays

2007-10-12T08:36:00.000-05:00

Life has a way of giving you exactly what you want sometimes. The thing is, you didn't realize all of the ramifications of getting what you want or you might not have wanted them in the first place. Case in point-school. Who knew that brain cells started dying off in the 30's until you were left with very few by the late part of your 30's? That may not be scientific, but I am sure that I was smarter when I was younger. These two classes are kicking my big patootie. It is just two classes, people! When I went to college after high school I took six classes! What is up with that? I have all A's, which is awesome, but I had to WORK for those A's. It has been somewhat fun, however, as I am learning so much about the Bible. Now, if I could only talk my dear hubby into hiring a maid and nanny....

The kids have been out of school this week. It has been quite a bit of fun hanging out with them this week at Playworld Down Under (huge indoor playground) and the Crow Creek Pumpkin Farm. They have cleaned their rooms (a miracle from God, I assure you) and are now quietly playing in their rooms (i.e., they are up to something). Last week, I took the girls to see Disney on Ice, which was quite fun-especially watching their little faces. Oh, to be that young again!

K had a birthday this week. She is now 8, which FREAKS me out! Of course, A is now telling me that she is going to be 8 on her next birthday, simply because she wants to be like her big sis, but I keep assuring her she is only going to be 4. Birthday party tomorrow night at our house throws me into a cleaning tizzy. Members of my dear family, who shall remain nameless, get their kicks by pointing out my dust laden fan blades and other cleaning failures, so I have to clean. My only worry is that if I clean off the dust, the fan may not work. Who knows? I am not a cleaner, but I will do my best. Anyways, I guess I must go now. I hope your week is going great. I have missed catching up with all of you and hope to be able to stop by your blogs and see how you are all doing.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Nobody by Creston Mapes

2007-10-10T17:59:00.000-05:00

Nobody by Creston Mapes combines the best of action and romance with little thrills thrown in here and there that you will love. I really enjoyed the plot of this book, simply because it was a little different, and it kept me guessing until the end of the book. If you are looking for Christian fiction that is interesting and full of action, then you will want to consider this one!

About This Book:
Not everything that happens in Vegas has to stay in Vegas!

They said, “He’s a nobody.” They were dead wrong.

When reporter Hudson Ambrose hears an early morning call on his police scanner about an injured person at a bus stop on Las Vegas Boulevard, he rushes to the scene to get the scoop.His world is blown off its axis when he discovers a murdered homeless man with a bankbook in his pocket showing a balance of almost one million dollars. Should he wait for the police, knowing the case will get lost in reams of red tape, or swipe the bankbook and take the investigation–and perhaps a chunk of the money–into his own hands?With sirens bearing down on the scene, Hudson makes an impulse decision that whisks him on a frantic search for answers, not only about the mysterious dead man, but about the lost soul lurking within himself.Uncovering bizarre links between a plane crash, a Las Vegas pit boss, a dirty cop, and a widowed Atlanta business mogul, Hudson is forced to find out: who was Chester Holte, what was he doing on the streets, and why are his homeless friends convinced he was an angel in disguise?

“Nobody was absolutely riveting from the opening scene to the final page. With compelling characters, a plot that surprised me at every turn, and a subtle, yet profound message that moved me to tears, this book goes straight to the top of my highly recommended list.”- Deborah Raney, author of Remember to Forget and Within This Circle

“A taut, entertaining novel of mystery, intrigue, and spiritual truth. Creston Mapes delivers a winner in Nobody.”- James Scott Bell, bestselling author of No Legal Grounds and Try Dying

“Nobody had me fascinated from the first paragraph and kept the surprises coming to the very end. Somehow, as the pages flew by, it also managed to convey a beautiful picture of faith the size of a mustard seed. From now on I’ll read anything by Creston Mapes the instant it hits the shelves.”- Athol Dickson, Christy Award—winning author of River Rising and The Cure

About The Author:
Creston Mapes is a talented storyteller whose first two novels, Dark Star and Full Tilt, made him a finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year awards and the Inspirational Readers Choice awards. Creston has written for major corporations, colleges, and ministries, including Coca-Cola, TNT Sports, Oracle, Focus on the Family, and In Touch Ministries. Committed to his craft and his family, Creston makes his home in Georgia with his wife, Patty, and their four children.

He's been married for twenty-one years to the girl he first loved way back in fourth grade. They have three lovely girls and a boy in a very close-knit family, spending a lot of time together - watching old classic movies, going on outings, and taking in various school and community events and activities. Creston loves to go for morning walks with his dog, read, paint watercolors, meet friends for coffee and Bible study, watch hockey, take his wife on dates, and spend time in God's Word.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Trophy Wives Club-Kristen Billerbeck

2007-10-05T19:26:00.000-05:00

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kristin Billerbeck was born in Redwood City, California. She went to San Jose State University and majored in Advertising, then worked at the Fairmont Hotel in PR, a small ad agency as an account exec, and then,she was thrust into the exciting world of shopping mall marketing. She got married, had four kids, and started writing romance novels until she found her passion: Chick Lit. She is a CBA bestselling author and two-time winner of the ACFW Book of the Year. Featured in the New York Times and USA. Today, Kristin has appeared on the Today Show for her pioneering role in Christian chick lit. Her last three books were:Split Ends: Sometimes the End is Really the Beginning (April 17, 2007)She's Out of Control (Ashley Stockingdale Series #1) (Nov 13, 2007)Calm, Cool & Adjusted (Spa Girls Series #3) (Oct 1, 2006)

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Haley Cutler is the consummate trophy wife. Perhaps "was" is the more accurate term. Haley married Prince Charming when she was only twenty years old – back in the day when highlights came from an afternoon at the beach, not three hours in the salon.When Jay first turned his eye to Haley, she was putty in his slender, graceful hands. No one ever treated her like she was important, and on the arm of Jay Cutler, she became someone people listened to and admired. Unfortunately, after seven years of marriage, her Prince Charming seems to belong to the Henry the XIII line of royalty. When Haley loses Jay, she not only loses her husband, she loses her identity.With her first independent decision, Haley leaves LA and moves home to Northern California. Feeling freedom just within her grasp, Haley learns that her settlement payments must go through one of Jay's financial advisors, Hamilton Lowe. Haley believes he's nothing more than a spy. And the feelings of distrust are mutual. Yet somehow, Hamilton finds himself handing over the monthly checks in person, and Haley can't deny that there's a kind of tenderness and protectiveness in Hamilton that she's never experienced in a man before.But before Haley can even consider another relationship, she must learn to accept her inherent worth, and what it is to be loved for who she is, not what's on the outside.

To purchase this wonderful book, click here.

Have a wonderful weekend! Janis

The Winner of Let Them Eat Cake is....

2007-09-29T08:59:00.000-05:00

Laura at Laura Williams Musings!

Pop over there and tell her congratulations!
Thank you to everyone who entered. More

giveaways are coming soon, so check back!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Janis

Remembered-Tamera Alexander

2007-09-28T17:18:00.000-05:00

About this Book:

Though loss is often marked in a single moment,letting go of someone you love can take a lifetime...

The threat of war--and a final request--send Véronique Girard from France to a distant and uninviting country. In the Colorado Territory, she searches for the man who has held her heart since childhood--her father. Pierre Girard left Paris for the Americas to seek his fortune in fur trading, vowing to send for his wife and daughter. But twenty-five years have passed and his vow remains unfulfilled. Sifting through shards of broken promises, Véronique embarks on a dangerous search for a man she scarcely remembers.His grief finally healed, Jack Brennan is moving on with life. After years of guiding families west, he is now working as a freighter to the mining towns surrounding Willow Springs. What he doesn't count on is an unexpected traveling companion on his trips up into the mountains, and how one woman's search will cause havoc with his plans... and his life.

About this Author:

Tamera Alexander is a bestselling novelist whose deeply drawn characters, thought provoking plots, and poignant prose resonate with readers. Alexander’s books have won multiple awards, including Romance Writers of America’s 2007 RITA® for Best Inspirational Romance, the 2007 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, 2007 Bookseller’s Best, and Library Journal’s Top Christian Fiction of 2006.

Her books have received acclaim from Library Journal, True West Magazine and Historical Novels Review, and Rekindled debuted on the CBA fiction bestseller list. She has a professional background in business management and conference coordination. A leader of women's ministries for over twelve years, she is currently active in music ministry, facilitating small groups, and mentoring other women. A graduate of Harding University, Tamera lives with her husband and their two teenagers in Greeley, Colorado.

Her other two books in the Fountain Creek Chronicles are Rekindled (Book 1) and Revealed (Book 2)To celebrate the release of Remembered, as well as the 3-volume boxed set of Fountain Creek Chronicles (Rekindled, Revealed, and Remembered), Tamera is currently giving away boxed sets in a contest on her website. Check out the contest at http://www.tameraalexander.com/ .

From a Distance, the first book in Tamera’s next historical series (Timber Ridge Reflections) releases in spring 2008.

Books, Church, Tests, and Life...

2007-09-28T10:39:00.001-05:00

This is my life this week. Four books needed to be reviewed this week, along with one quiz and one graded discussion for school. That does not include the moving that we are doing at church that has had me there everyday this week or the four work projects that I am supposed to be doing. Whew! I am tired just thinking about it! The good news is that three of my four rooms are done at church. I am just waiting on the last one to be finished up (painting murals), so I can get in there and arrange all of our stuff. Quiz and discussion are done and I did very well, so they are off my plate. Two of the four books are reviewed and I will be doing one of them this afternoon or evening. Work has suffered immensely. I will be trying to get it caught up, as well as the homework that I have let slide this week over the weekend and the early part of the next week. Two meetings in the next few days will have to be attended, with me giving a talk about the new security system we are implementing at church. Now, notice I didn't say anything about the kids, the husband, the pets, or the house. Yes, they are suffering from my overload. My cat has ran away or been stolen or...well, you know. That has added to the stress. Pray for me if you think about it. I am hanging in there, but feel like I am not doing anything very well right now. I know it is all for God's glory, but right now, I am just tired. I hope that your week is less stressful than mine!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Blessed Assurance-Lyn Cote

2007-09-26T14:31:00.000-05:00

I just finished this book up a few minutes ago and I just loved it! It is actually three books in one, which makes it very interesting as it moves from generation to generation. If you love books that combine God with historical fiction, then you will love Blessed Assurance.

About This Book:
Now available for the first time in one edition--All three novels from Lyn Cote's beloved Blessed Assurance series

In Whispers of Love, Civil War widow Jessie Wagstaff must fend for herself and her son. When a stranger, Lee Smith, befriends Jessie's son, even though she recognizes nine-year-old Linc's need for a father figure, she's reluctant to let a new man into their life. When the Great Chicago Fire blazes, every heart is pushed to its limits.

In Lost In His Love, Jessie's son Linc, a social activist and reporter, charms his way through the upper class of San Francisco to build much-needed support for his fight against child labor. His main target is Cecilia Jackson, a beautiful heiress who doesn't recognize the crucial part she plays in this dangerous exploitation. As the secrets of her family's dark past are exposed, Cecilia must revive her own wounded spirit and find the strength to lean on the never-failing love of Christ. But when the 1906 earthquake hits, everyone's faith will be put to the test.

In Echoes of Mercy, Meg Wagstaff challenges the racial barriers of 1920s New Orleans in order to prove that her childhood friend did not commit murder. The stubborn lawyer prosecuting the case, Gabriel St. Clair, is an authentic Southern gentleman who makes the mistake of underestimating Meg, both her tenacity and her charm. Despite their many differences, sparks begin to fly. But when Meg discovers the truth, will Gabe be able to protect her from those who can't afford to have justice prevail?

About The Author:
Lyn Cote's journey to becoming a published author was a long one - she started her first book when her daughter was 13 months old and her first novel was published when her daughter was about to enter high school. But Lyn was writing for a market that hadn't taken shape yet - the inspirational fiction market.

In 1996, Lyn Cote's first inspirational historical manuscript was a finalist in the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart Contest. This became her first historical novel, Whispers Of Love, in her BLESSED ASSURANCE series.

Most recently, Chloe, the first novel in Lyn's "Women of Ivy Manor" historical series was a 2006 RWA Rita Award finalist for Best Inspirational, as well as a finalist for the Holt Medallion and the National Readers Choice Contest.Lyn also writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense.

She lives in the lovely northwoods of Wisconsin with her husband and three cats. Aside from writing, she also likes to knit, crochet, read, and do lunch with friends.

To purchase this wonderful book, click here.

************************************************************************************
Don't forget to leave a comment on Let Them Eat Cake to receive your very own copy for your library! Scroll down for the review on this awesome book!
************************************************************************************
Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Begotten and The Betrayed-Lisa Tawn Bergren

2007-09-26T07:33:00.000-05:00

Let me just start by saying that I was soooo excited to be able to review Lisa's books! I have read other books of hers and really enjoy them and these two were no different. These books are the first two in the Gifted series, which is wonderful, because I just love books that are a series. These are different from her romances, as they are more speculative Christian fiction, but I loved them nonetheless. Here are the synopsis' of the two of them.

About The Begotten:
What if the Medieval Church had the lost letters of Paul, holding them away from the populace because they expounded on spiritual gifts? What would happen if God brought together people with extraordinary spiritual gifts during the fourteenth century? How would they battle the twin dangers of evil and the Inquisition? How would their decisions, good and bad, help shape the future Body of Christ? And what if the people that did the greatest good in the battle had more subtle spiritual gifts than those they supported and followed?

The year is 1339 and God calls to his beloved until they rise from their slumber. Yet at the same time, Evil also walks the Earth, hunting God's chosen ones. Can the Gifted rally together and avoid both the known dangers that hunt them as well as those in the shadows? The future of the Christian Church, as well as humandkind, rests on their ability to rely on what God had laid in their hearts, minds and souls. Will they discover it in time?

Daria D'Angelo is an Italian aristocrat with a dangerous gift. She needs to help a secret group of people stay alive when the Church and the enemy all want them dead, serve her God with her gifts of healing, and although she longs for romantic love, keep her eyes on the Eternal. If she does not succeed, she, her friends, and their eternal purpose to radically transform the Christian Church—and the future of humanity—will all die.

About The Betrayed:
The breathtaking quest of the spiritually empowered Gifted ones, prophesized in a long-lost illuminated letter from the apostle Paul, continues as the healer, the priest, and the knight gather together to fight a battle in a profound new war. For the enemies of the Gifted are gathering, led by an evil lord who will do anything to destroy their unwavering faith.

About Lisa Tawn Bergren:
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the author of 28 books, with over 1.3 million sold. She is a publishing consultant, writer, Bible study leader, mother and wife. Her hobbies include travel (mostly from an armchair), reading, watching movies, cooking and exploring with her family. Lisa's most recent books include The Begotten, The Betrayed, God Gave Us Heaven, What Women Want and The Busy Mom's Devotional. She resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado. To sign up for her monthly email (which includes a new, unpublished devotional) go to www.LisaTawnBergren.com and join her newsletter list.

The great news is that these books are available at Target. If you have one nearby, then you are sure to want to purchase these books.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Let Them Eat Cake!

2007-09-24T06:54:00.000-05:00

This book was such a fun read! From beginning to end, it kept me interested and rooting the main character, Lexi, on. She finds out that no matter what she plans, God has a better plan for her. What a great message for all of us! No matter what we think our lives should look like, God has it all under His control, which makes an even better picture! If you are looking for a fun, God-filled read, then look no further!

Good news! I have a copy of this one to give away to you, compliments of Waterbrook Press! If you would like to read this, leave a comment and I will put you into the drawing. Drawing will be at 8pm on Friday!

About the Book:
Lexi Stuart is at a critical crossroads. She’s done with college but still living at home, ready to launch a career but unable to find a job, and solidly stalled between boyfriends.

When a lighthearted conversation in French with the manager of her favorite bakery turns into a job offer, Lexi accepts. But the actual glamour is minimal: the pay is less than generous, her co-workers are skeptical, her bank account remains vertically-challenged, and her parents are perpetually disappointed. Her only comfort comes from the flirtatious baker she has her eye—but even may not be who he seems to be!

So when a handsome young executive dashes into the bakery to pick up his high profile company’s special order for an important meeting—an order Lexi has flubbed— she loses her compulsion to please. “What am I going to do?” he shouts. “Let them eat cake!” she fires back with equal passion and a nod to Marie Antoinette. And then, something inside Lexi clicks. Laissez la révolution commencer! Let the revolution begin! Instead of trying to fulfill everyone else’s expectations for her life, Lexi embarks on an adventure in trusting God with her future—très bon!

Lexi – and Let Them Eat Cake – will entertain readers with wit and great fun, but also explore the universal coming-of-age themes of separating from one’s family of origin, establishing self-esteem, and making healthy choices.

About the Author:
Sandra Byrd is a prolific writer of fiction, including the popular Friends for a Season series for teens, and the bestselling Girls Like You and Secret Sisters series for young girls. She is a regular contributor to national Christian publications. Before she began writing full time, Sandra worked in marketing, sales, and acquisitions for an educational publisher. She and her husband have two children, and make their home in Seattle, Washington.

Don't forget to enter the drawing!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Ex Files-Victoria Christopher Murray

2007-09-21T10:04:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed this book for the simple reason that it gives a glimpse into four women's lives who are dealing with much the same circumstances in their life. The Bible study and prayer group that they start coming to helps to knit them together to make each one of them stronger and closer to God. There is a twist to the story that I won't share (I don't want to ruin your reading), but this twist serves to remind them of the importance of God and each other. There is some steaminess in this book, however, that made me a little uncomfortable, simply because you do not expect it in a Christian fiction book. That could have been left out and the book would still have been excellent, but it was not. I think that this will be a sticky point for many readers, simply because this is why we don't read traditional romances. It had a good message, however, simply because it was based on things that happen in real life. It is not your mother's Christian fiction. It is much more contemporary and edgy. Keep that in mind if you decide to read it.

About the Book:

The Ex Files:
A Novel About Four Women and Faith...
There are four ways a woman can handle heartbreak. She can fall apart, seek revenge, turn cold, or move on. The Ex Files is the story of these four women:

When Kendall Stewart finds her husband and her sister in bed together, she vows to never let anyone get that close again. But when she is faced with saving the life of the woman who destroyed hers, will she be able to forgive?

When an NBA superstar tells his mistress, Asia Ingrum, that he's decided to honor his marriage vows, her shock quickly gives way to revenge...but her decision may come back to haunt their five-year-old daughter.

Every night Vanessa Martin wonders why her husband committed suicide. Even worse, she contemplates joining him in eternity. Will Vanessa be able to gather the strength to live again?

Sheridan Hart is finally finding her way after a lie destroyed her seventeen-year marriage. Her new love is ready to get married, but will she commit to this younger man or is her ex-husband taking up too much space in her heart?

When their pastor asks Kendall, Asia, Vanessa, and Sheridan to meet weekly for prayer, they can't imagine they will have anything in common. But then a devastating tragedy strikes and these strangers are forced to reexamine their choices. Will they find true friendship, or will prayer -- and their union -- fail them?

About the Author:

Victoria Christopher Murray always knew she would become an author, even as she was taking quite an unlikely path to that destination. A native of Queens, New York, Victoria first left New York to attend Hampton Institute in Virginia where she majored in Communication Disorders.

After graduating from Hampton, Victoria attended New York University where she received her MBA.Victoria spent ten years in Corporate America before she decided to test her entrepreneurial spirit. She opened a Financial Services Agency for Aegon, USA where she managed the number one division for nine consecutive years. However, Victoria never lost the dream to write and when the “bug” hit her again in 1997, she answered the call.

Victoria originally self published Temptation. “I wanted to write a book as entertaining and compelling as any of the books on the market, put God in the middle, and have the book still be a page-turner. I wasn’t writing to any particular genre – I didn’t even know Christian fiction existed. I just wanted to write about people I knew and characters I could relate to.”

In 2000, Time Warner published Temptation. Temptation made numerous best sellers list across the nation and remained on the Essence bestsellers list for nine consecutive months. In 2001, Temptation was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literature.

Since Temptation, Victoria has written four other novels: JOY, Truth Be Told, Grown Folks Business, and A Sin and a Shame. All of her novels have continued to be Essence bestsellers; her last three each reaching #1. In addition, Victoria has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and in 2006, she was awarded the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being the pioneer in African American Christian Fiction.

If you are interested in purchasing this book or any of Victoria's earlier books, you can click here!

Next week, I will be having a giveaway, so check back!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Clearing the Wild-Jane Kirkpatrick

2007-09-17T08:02:00.000-05:00

My favorite type of book is the ones that weave history into the story, especially history about the early settlers or the Holocaust. This book is about the early settlers of Missouri who moved west due to their religious beliefs and persecution that they felt from the government. Emma, the heroine of sorts, questions their beliefs and discovers that although she questions the "church", she is greatly blessed by the people that she is with. You will really enjoy this book!

About the Book:

Emma Wagner seeks a singular voice in her 1850s religious community in Bethel, Missouri when she chafes at the constraints of a culture that values conformity over independent thought, especially in women.
Sent West with nine men challenged to secure land set apart from the world's distractions, this novel, inspired by historical events, follows one woman through her isolation from her community and the lessons learned in her spiritual journey.
In book one of this fact-filled fiction, Emma discovers what it truly means to serve--and to survive.

About the Author, Jane Kirkpatrick:

Jane grew up near Mondovi, Wisconsin, a little town not far from the Mississippi River. Her older sister Judy and younger brother Craig helped on the family dairy farm. Dozens of cousins lived within 50 miles providing the privilege of extended family memories. Most of the "Rutschow" clan remained in the Wisconsin-Minnesota area. Jane moved to Oregon in 1974 after completing her master's degree in social work. She worked in the disabilities field, became the director of the mental health program in Deschutes County and eventually "retired" from there to homestead and begin a new adventure in writing, working on the reservation, growing watermelons, and attempting to grow grapes, alfalfa and cattle.

The Kirkpatrick's new life has included "clearing sagebrush and wrestling wind and rattlesnakes" while "homesteading" land on the John Day River in a remote part of Oregon known locally as Starvation Point. She and her husband Jerry still live there today. "It's our 'rural 7-Eleven' since our home sits seven miles from the mailbox and eleven miles from the pavement" notes the author. Additionally, she currently works as a mental health and educational consultant on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation in Central Oregon with both Native American and non-Indian communities.

To learn more about Jane and the other books that she has written, including the next one in this series, A Tendering in the Storm, visit http://www.jkbooks.com/.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

What is Your Favorite Bible Verse?

2007-09-15T08:53:00.000-05:00

I was thinking this morning about the Bible verses that really speak to me. Do you have a favorite one? I have found that I have several favorites that have spoken to me over my life. I think that it is the neat part about the Bible. It can speak to you in many different ways and in many different situations. In fact, you can read it one time and not get anything, but read it later and it move you to tears. It is the LIVING Word of God and I truly believe that it has that ability to stir us, convict us, encourage us, guide us, and love on us. That is quite amazing, isn't it? So, throw some Bible verses at me, my friends! I am curious to see how God is speaking to you today! Here is mine for today!

I have a hard time being still and letting God handle all of the details. God has been speaking to me about giving it all to Him and letting Him handle it, instead of trying to fix it myself.

I hope you all have a beautiful weekend full of time with friends and family.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

Life, Libby, and the Pursuit of Happiness by Hope Lyda

2007-09-14T15:52:00.000-05:00

Let me just tell you that I would have bought this book just for its cover! The bright and fun colors just speak to me! Upon opening it, however, I found that it was just as fun and exciting inside as it was on the outside! Libby speaks to me in so many different ways and I just loved her story of finding love and finding that God is in everything-even in the things we see as mistakes. If you are looking for a fun, light read, then you will want to pick this book up!

About the Book:

Libby Hawthorne makes exotic trip itineraries but never leaves Seattle. She’d like to attend church but winds up at a bookstore. She longs for love—but who has the time? Delayed happiness has been worth it, because she’s about to get her dream promotion...

Or not.

So now what?

When a corporate merger leaves her demoted and disillusioned, Libby realizes she needs to start living authentically...and soon. But just as she tries to uncover her purposed life, her cruel and unusual boss, Cecilia, demands that Libby hide Seattle’s most famous homegrown rock star in order to keep her new, bad job. For the first time in years, Libby doesn’t have a step by step plan to guide her. She must trust her faith and her heart. But what is she supposed to do with her growing admiration for Blaine Slater, a new VP from Chicago, or the surprising kindness of the rock star living incognito in her Seattle apartment? Through the humorous twist and turns, Libby uncovers a big life truth—the detours we are afraid of might just be the perfect path to happiness.

About Hope Lyda:

Hope Lyda has always wanted to write. Ever since she was a young tyke with a spiral notebook in hand, she had the urge to fill it. Sadly, Peggy Meets the Midgets did not cause Hope to be deemed a child prodigy, so she continued her path of education. She was grade-obsessed but also truly enjoyed sharing laughs with her circle of creative friends.

Hope attended the University of Oregon and graduated with a double major in Journalism: Advertising and Telecommunications and Film. With aspirations to write screenplays or teleplays, she of course ended up doing public relations for non-profits until she entered the publishing field in which she has worked for 10 years.

Her passions are quiet ones—she loves a good read, an afternoon of free thinking time, writing, journaling, road trips, travel, and pondering life from her back yard pergola. She loiters in bookstores frequently, though has never been arrested for such. Her big hope is to encourage others to embrace their dreams and understand their faith journeys through the practice of journaling and the art of creative living. She hopes to also inspire such things through the themes in her fiction including Hip to Be Square and Altar Call. (There are also visions of a nice Casita with a hammock in Mexico—but one thing at a time.)

When not living in her head, she resides with her husband, Marc, in the Pacific Northwest.

To purchase this fun read, click here!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-09-12T07:08:00.000-05:00

Sushi For One-Camy Tang

2007-09-07T07:38:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed this book. It is an up-to-date romance of a woman that is not really looking for romance in her life, but when she lets God in the driver's seat of her life, then He shows her how wonderful her life can be. It was light-hearted and fun to read with quite a few twists and turns concerning family, friends, and life. If you enjoy chick-lit and have been looking for a fun read, then look no further!

About the Book:

Lex Sakai’s family, big, nosy, and marriage-minded, is ruled by a crafty grandmother. When her cousin Mariko gets married, Lex will become the OLDEST SINGLE COUSIN in the clan, a loathed position by all single female family members.

Lex has not dated for years.

Grandma hones in on this fact and demands, bribes, and threatens Lex to bring a boyfriend (not just a date) to her cousin’s wedding.

Lex does not want to date ... not since that terrible incident a few years back ... but, Grandma doesn't give her that choice.

Lex's options are slim because she has used her Bible study class on Ephesians to compile a huge list of traits for the PERFECT man (and the more she dates, the more she adds to the list).

The one man she keeps running into (and is completely attracted to) doesn’t seem to have a single quality on her list. It’s only when the always-in-control Lex loses control and lets God take over that all the pieces of this hilarious romance finally fall into place.

About the Author:
Camy Tang is a member of CFBA and is a loud Asian chick who writes loud Asian chick-lit. She grew up in Hawaii, but now lives in San Jose, California, with her engineer husband and rambunctious poi-dog. In a previous life she was a biologist researcher, but these days she is surgically attached to her computer, writing full-time. In her spare time, she is a staff worker for her church youth group, and she leads one of the worship teams for Sunday service.Sushi for One? (Sushi Series, Book One is her first novel. Her second, Only Uni (Sushi Series, Book Two) comes out in February 2008!

To celebrate the launch of her debut novel, she's got a huge contest going on. Camy is giving away baskets of Christian novels and an iPod Nano! Only her newsletter YahooGroup subscribers are eligible to enter, so join today.

For more information about the contest, visit her website.

To buy this awesome book, visit Amazon.com here!

Thankful Thursday

2007-09-06T07:54:00.000-05:00

What are you thankful for today? Do you have an attitude of gratitude to God for everything He has done for you?

I am thankful for:

1)Sweet tea. I just love the taste of cold, sweet tea. Nothing else quite measures up when it is hot outside (except for water).

2)Trees. I can see trees in my front yard as I sit and work/study/read blogs. Sometimes they just mesmerize me with their swaying (or maybe I am just procrastinating from working/studying).

3)My husband. Even when I fall into a hole at church and jar my entire body to the point that my hair comes out of the hairclip, he can still make me laugh. Now, I didn't want to laugh, because I wanted to be whiny, but he made me laugh anyways.

4)My kids. I told my oldest daughter that I had fell at church and she said, "But, mommy, you did really good when I quizzed you on the questions the other day. Why did you fail?" Yes, my children listen to me so well.

5)The never-ending laundry pile. I am thankful that we all have entirely too many outfits. Otherwise, what would I do all day?

6)The pile of dishes in the sink. That means we have had food to eat this week.

7)I am thankful for God's sense of humor. He made me, didn't He?

In all things, be thankful. No matter if it is scrubbing toilets or having a massage, if you go into it with the right attitude, you can have an attitude of thankfulness and praise.

Smiles and Loves! Janis

My One Constant

2007-09-04T06:44:00.000-05:00

This fall has brought many new changes here in our household. From J starting middle school to me starting college (again!) to moving into a new church (5 weeks away now), I am feeling change in my life. I have discovered that I am not really a fan of change. I love going on vacation, but I much prefer going to a city that I know, rather than somewhere that I have never been before. Change can be painful, scary, and exciting all rolled up into one. You never know what to expect around that next bend in the road and that is disconcerting and scary.

There is one constant in your life no matter how much change is happening around you and that is God. Even if you are tired, He is right there with you.

So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10 The Message).

Even if you are confused and don't know which way to go, He is guiding you.

Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long. (Psalm 25:5).

Even if everything in your life is going wrong, there is hope and help through Him.

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore. (Psalm 121)

Right now, I am standing on these verses to help get through each and every day. Yes, my calendar is full of tests, work, church move notes, kid notes, and more, but God will give me the strength to get through each and everyday. Everything that is in my life right now was put there by God, so He will equip me and strengthen me to get it all done. I just have to trust Him on that.

What is happening in your life? Does change make you nervous? If so, remember our one constant - God. He is always there for you!

Smiles and Loves! Janis

The Dead Whisper On-T.L. Hines

2007-08-30T16:56:00.000-05:00

I had read Waking Lazarus so I was very excited about reading this book. I loved it just as much! From beginning to end, it kept my full attention and I could hardly put it down. If you love inspirational fiction books with lots of action, then this is the one for you!

About the Author: Tony is the author of the acclaimed Waking Lazarus. He has been an advertising agency owner/principal, a trade magazine editor, and now a novelist.

He has been a professional writer for more than 15 years with articles appearing in publications as varied as Log Homes, Conservative Theological Journal, and Travel & Leisure. He is also Creative Director at Montana's largest advertising agency.

His long list of past odd jobs includes trimming Christmas trees, sorting seed potatoes, working the graveyard shift at a convenience store, and cleaning cadaver storage rooms.

As a teen he was undefeated in air guitar competitions in which he performed songs by ZZ Top.

He lives in Montana with his wife and daughter.

About the Book:
Would You Run Into A Burning Building?

Candace "Canada Mac" MacHugh lives a ghost of her former life.

Once a proud Butte, Montana, miner who daily risked her life setting explosives, she's now a garbage collector in her dying hometown.

Her beloves father is dead and she doesn't speak to her mom. More than anything, Candace Mac misses her father. He promised to contact her from the "other side" if he could...but it's been eleven long years. And now even her beloved city of Butte, Montana, seems to be dying off.

Candace Mac is alone. Longing for the past. Dreaming of making a difference.

Until one night when her father's voice speaks to her from the shadows. Bud MacHugh's trademark growl. The dead, it seems, have messages they hunger to share with the world...warnings of impending disasters and grave danger. Of cities doomed to burn.

But they need Canada's help.

T.L. Hines' first novel, Waking Lazarus was named one of the Library Journal's Top 25 Genre novels of 2006. Now he's back with a gripping suspense that brings to light our fears and asks us if we still have the courage to fight for those around us. if we have the guts to be one of those who run into burning buildings.

To purchase this book for yourself, click here!

Smiles and Loves! Janis