Two more to review...

As I promised, here are my latest books I've read, given to me by Bethany Publishing in exchange for a review. I know I could sound like a broken record here, but seriously, I've REALLY enjoyed these two titles. They came one day apart, but thankfully, I love to read.

                                                     
                                                     UNDETECTED By Dee Henderson

With this being my first book from this author, I wasn't sure what to expect. 

I was fascinated with what I learned about the Navy-life aboard a Submarine.
Navigating the deep waters of military life, Mark Bishop plays a worthy hero whose heart is moving forward after the untimely death of his wife. His take control attitude guides him well in his job as a Navy Commander, as well as in his personal life.

Things get interesting when his best friends "little sister" arrives on base before her brother returns from sea. Fortunately for Gina, Mark is able to step in and help her adjust to life. Her life. That is anything but normal. Leading ocean science research projects has been her passion. But her God-given ability--her mind/genius--often causes her great difficulty in getting what she wants most in life. Normal. Does it even exist? Pushing all her frustrations aside, Gina dives into her work and finds what could be the most exciting and dangerous breakthrough her research has turned up yet.

I look forward to reading more from Henderson. Her plots are very well thought out and have characters that are very "real" and love able. I look forward to reading more from her! I highly recommend it!

 

 

 

A MOMENT IN TIME by Tracie Peterson

 

A charming historical novel, set back in the western era. I loved the story line.
The main character Alice is running. Running from her past, her memories and her fears. She finds solace at a ranch near Dallas, TX.

Her scars, though never quite concealed, seem to draw unwanted attention everywhere she goes. People asking her questions, and the ever present man lurking in the shadows. Waiting. Watching.

With the new start, and wide open spaces, Alice is sure she is seeing big blue skies for the first time. Until her troubles follow her, and show up in the most frustrating places.

Such a relevant story to us today. No matter how far we run, our troubles will follow until we face them, and turn them over into the capable hands of the Lord. Having not read from this series before, I quickly looked up other titles to follow this story, and learn more about this author. I loved it!

It's June...already...

How May came and went and June fell upon us, I shall never know.

This past day has been spent cleaning up mess after mess, created (lovingly) by a sweet little girl who is getting far too big for her britches. Seriously. She crawled out of her crib last night. I found her dangling by her hands off the side of her baby bed this morning, so out came the toddler transition-- out of the same bed. That girl is determined to grow up! Nothing is too big for her, and if her big brother does it--well, so should she!

Speaking of Cade; he began his third year of swim lessons. He hates them, until he's there and then tells me just how much he LOVES it. He says that a lot. About Piano Lessons, Cub Scouts, Golf--though he rarely complains about that, and then of course there is the chores...but I'll take every bit of it. We are learning too.

Aaron is getting ready to go back into seminary. Yes, we needed that one-more-thing. (Ha, Ha) We have been reorganizing our lives (as if that is even possible) to absorb this new change. Several things went by the wayside, and others came just a bit more into focus. He is very excited.

Our projects have dwindled down and I am thrilled. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE me a good project. Especially a refinishing one. However, I'm ready for a break. We are a week(-ish) out from completing our pool install. 27ft. around didn't look that big all rolled up...=)

This week marks my 3 year milestone. Ironically, I've spent the last two months re-establishing with new physicians as they have moved, retired, or changed vocations. Yes, my oncologist changed as well and then I should mention that they lost my records. Again. Perhaps a fresh start is just the thing! =) Lord willing I will still be in remission. I am grateful.

I'm thankful to all of you who have read, are reading or have purchased my book. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, you have blessed me. If you get the chance to review it on Amazon.com, or Barnes and Noble, please do! I'd love to hear from you!

I've continued to write, though mostly in my head. I'm also prepping for another couple of women's retreats coming up in the fall. I am so excited. Some days I can hardly believe that the Lord would allow me to leave these four walls and be among women who encourage me and build me up. Diapers and spilled Cheerios can only get you so far. I'm telling you--He (the Lord) is far better to us than we deserve.

I need to retire for the night, but sending out my thoughts and prayers in your direction tonight.

-Erin

Reviews...

Good morning! I just realized that a couple of my book reviews never published...my sincere apologies to Bethany House Publishing. Please note, the following reviews are my opinion alone. I was given these books via the Publisher in exchange for a review. So here they are again...

1) "Get Your Teenager Talking" by Jonathan McKee

      In his book, Get Your Teenager Talking, Mr. McKee gives 180 conversation starters. While not having a teen aged child of my own, I found his book insightful, and refreshing. I believe this would pair well with scripture to any youth worker, parent or pastor seeking to find ways to reach teens.

      The easy format makes this book very manageable and a great reference. I highly recommend it!

2) "Shadow Hand" by Anne Elizabeth Stengl

      I was completely lost in this book...until I realized it was not the first of a series, but about the eighth! I loved it. It puts me in mind of The Lord of the Rings type--book.
I felt the author did an excellent job of drawing parallels from the past that echo hauntingly to present day. Her imaginative plot (I'm not giving it away) draws you in, and sets you to thinking about Idols, false teachings, and the Truth of Gods word and the freedom therein. It's costly, as the heroine finds out, and compels the reader to seek truth. Well done! I'll be purchasing the other books in this exciting series!

What a weekend!!!

Amazing!
I am finally getting things into order after a long weekend away. I am incredibly thankful for all the help that was given Aaron, Cade, Libbi, and I! Thank you, thank you!!!!

This past weekend, I spent time in upper MI., speaking at a womens convention. On top of that, my book was released as well! Yes, it was a huge day for us...exhausting too! (Emotionally)

I did not get sick on stage or anything! Thank you for your prayers!

Rachelle (BFF) was able to come with me and we had a blast! Road trip, and girl chit chat! What could be better? They treated us like queens...literally! It was fun and such an honor! To bring the word to these ladies who love the word...nothing better! We had great praise and worship, and ministry time through prayer, too!

I will upload pictures from the weekend as soon as I get on my home computer, the Kindle only does so much! =)

I have heard from many of you who have purchased my book. Thank you. Seriously, I have cried tears of thankfulness for your support, and prayers that have literally been carrying us these three years. You are truly the best!

Just letting you know I am still alive!

Love, Erin

PS: If you would like a book, you can order through Amazon, contact the publisher (AJoyin Publishing), or through me via email: aleighshafer@aol.com

PS2: If you have already purchased one, would you please do me a favor and go online to review it on Amazon? You just have to have an account with them to write a review (Go to "my account" and search the title name.)

PS3: Lastly, yes...I will give signatures. =)

Good Morning!

Yes, indeed it is...a good morning!

I'm sitting this morning, with coffee in hand, waiting for my best friend. She's coming for a short visit before she goes to work. Cade is spread out on the floor, finishing up his schoolwork, yes for the year. Aaron has long since left for work. Libbi, if you can believe it, is STILL asleep.

This week has been completely full: a funeral at church, fun get-togethers with friends, play dates, yard work, cleaning, choosing book covers, and bible study tonight, rolling right into a weekend packed. Lord help me. That's my prayer.

I awoke last night drenched in fear. I was dreaming that for the womens retreat (I'm speaking at in two weeks), I had forgotten my notes and threw-up on stage. Yikes! And then was dreaming that my cancer had come back. While I can understand how nerves, and tiredness can do things to you, I often wonder why we have to fight fear so hard, so much, and all the time. Lord help me. Again I prayed.

With the business of the week and a bad dream stuck in my head, I realized: I haven't been in the Word nor have I been praying like I should have been. There is where I can battle these things with the only weapons we are given to fight the unseen battle that we can at times "feel" going on around us.

Over 365 times, does scripture encourage us not to fear. More than once per day of every year, we can take heart. Spirits lifted. And yes, even have a good morning in spite of what we may feel. Lord help me. He will. He's never left. And he's always near.

If this sounds like you, take heart my friend. I'm praying for you. Will you remember me as well? Through these fears, and when I share in two weeks? Thank you, so very much! (In advance)

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed (changed in form) by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

The Libbi-girl is up. Saying "oh, wow! Wow!" She too is experiencing a good morning. Hallelujah-a word that means the highest praise, is what I'm singing today. Prepping for today's work, yes...today is going to be a good day!

Between Heaven and Earth....my personal review.

        When you read a title like this, you might be tempted to wonder 1) who is writing, and 2) of what experience makes this author credible to write such a thing?

        I was offered this book in exchange for a review on my blog. I had the opportunity to choose between certain titles. This one intrigued me.

        Between Heaven and Earth...Finding Hope, Courage, and Passion Through a Fresh Vision of Heaven, was written by a man named Steve Berger. It was an excellent read. His perspective is through his own experience, the eyes of a minister/father who's son resides now in his Heavenly home. Not lost, for he was found in Christ long before his home-going.

        Berger, in my opinion, lays out for the reader, a clear and precise view of Heaven as is found only in Scripture. What was my greatest surprise, was that it was short on an "experience" (which is a common trend), and long on the delivering of an excellent challenge: to be so Heavenly minded that your hands and your heart are deeply embedded in the harvest. All around. Wherever you reside.

        While experience is often the best teacher, the biblical challenge of KNOWING Christ, His word, and being able to share is definitely the picture being drawn throughout his book. The wisdom we gain from knowing the Truth is beyond comparison. I'd encourage you to read it. Read it again. Pass it out. He offers a refreshing voice of Hope, Courage and Passion as he and his wife bravely share their deepest grief in "Between Heaven and Earth."

        You will not be disappointed!

Let It Go...

Whew!

This past month has been such a great, relaxing, fast paced month for us!

Aaron was able to participate in a pastors conference in Louisville, KY. He had an amazing time with eight other guys. Louisville, being only hours from my Grandma, the kids and I were able to stay with her for a week. Oh, my goodness! I LOVED every minute of it. It was difficult to leave. There is something about family...something so precious.

The kids are doing well. Libbi is walking/running. Everywhere. All.The.Time. My busy little girl is learning words and climbing furniture. Her current favorites are Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches, Cheese, and crackers of any kind.

Cade is nearing the end of Second Grade. He is flying through his work and learning division, more about writing, and reading in about a 5th grade level. The kid amazes me. He also is working on his manners and obedience. (ugh) He is doing great, and it encourages mom and dad to stay a step ahead. *smile*

Guess what? I told you that I would have some news, and I do! My book is due out in about 6 weeks! EEKKK!!!! I'm excited/scared/terrified/thrilled all at once! Look for some more information soon. I'll hopefully be able to share the cover with you soon. It will be available through the publisher, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble, if you'd like a copy!

I have never been able to just "find a song" that fits my life so closely, so appropriately, and ironically so very close to the book coming out, as I have found in the song "Let it Go" from the movie FROZEN. By now, there are many covers on YouTube, and from other very talented people. My personal favorite is sung by Lexi Walker. (I'll include the video at the end.)

 

The snow glows white on the mountain tonight,

not a footprint to be seen.

A kingdom of isolation and it looks like

I'm the queen

The wind is howling like this swirling storm inside

Couldn't keep it in

Heaven knows I tried.

 

My life hasn't exactly gone "just as planned." While battling through Breast Cancer, I found that there were very isolated areas in my life as I tried to find my identity. I lived, in many ways, exactly how I felt would be appropriate for those around me, or what I imagined a "good Christian girl" should look like.

 

 

Don't let them in don't let them see

Be the good girl you always have to be

Conceal, don't feel, don't let them know.

Well, now they know!

 

Yes, people will know. In my book I've shared my personal struggles: my life, my heart, my dreams. I tried to hold nothing back. Yes, people will know the real me...and for the first time: I'm not afraid. Intimidated? Absolutely. Worried about rejection? The thoughts come and go. I'd be lying if I said they didn't. The past three years and the difficulty in walking them have taught me some priceless lessons. Lessons about loving myself, not hating. Loving others, regardless of how they have hurt me. Forgiveness, letting go of fears, and finding my identity are just a few.

 

It's funny how some distance

Makes everything seem small

And the fears that once controlled me

Can't get to me at all

It's time to see what I can do

To test the limits and break through...

I'm never going back

The past is in the past.

 

The answer is Jesus. It always has been and it always will be. The One and Only. Jesus. Fear has all but crippled me at times. Sucked the life out of me. But it is time to let it go. The fear that controlled me. The perfect life. The preconceived ideas about what my identity was supposed to look like. Where in the world would I be without you, Jesus? He is my identity, my portion. He continually speaks and pours grace out on us. His call to us is "Come." His gift to us is Himself. Perfect love. The most perfect of all love that has the power to cast out fear. Draw near to Him sweet friend, if but just one moment today. Let it go. Let all that you are holding on to, go. Free fall into His arms. It will be OK. I promise.