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!
Friday, March 28, 2014
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
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.)
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.
Friday, February 7, 2014
February!
February- already?
Where has the time gone?
My little girl turned one! ONE!!!
Look at that cutie! She scarfed that cupcake down!!!
I embarked on a makeover of her little table that was handed down from her brother. These things are a dime a dozen at yard sales and the like, but did I research that with Cade? Nope. Shoulda-woulda-coulda. The end.
Since I'm all about pink, I decided to give it a shot. What could it hurt?
Where has the time gone?
My little girl turned one! ONE!!!
Look at that cutie! She scarfed that cupcake down!!!
I embarked on a makeover of her little table that was handed down from her brother. These things are a dime a dozen at yard sales and the like, but did I research that with Cade? Nope. Shoulda-woulda-coulda. The end.
Since I'm all about pink, I decided to give it a shot. What could it hurt?
I purchased the materials at JoAnns. First the cute patterns, then the clear overlay. The chair tops were the most difficult, as the screws and material were no longer reusable. I improvised with Velcro. A lot of it. As for the rest? A stapler and some patience. It certainly isn't perfect, but cuteness loves it and so do I. I had to include one more of her sitting at her table because one shows her hair better and the other-her teeth! Hilarious!
For those that were asking for more information on how to do this, I'd be happy to help with suggestions (though I'm more of a free spirit when it comes to these projects)...feel free to email me! My contact is up on the right side of my blog page.
Wishing you and yours a happy day!
Monday, December 23, 2013
Never Once...
Three years. Three very fast, LONG, struggling years.
I woke up this morning early. Sitting down with a cup of coffee and my devotions, I was thrilled to have the time to myself. I am on the final chapter, reading through the Psalms of ascent. When the psalmist is calling God to remember, and to draw near.
As I was encouraged to do in my study, I looked back. And I remembered. Three years ago, choking down my grief, I stood before the mirror asking myself, "what's next?" Three years past, I was in surgery at this exact time. A double mastectomy. Lifelong scars. Heart memories of when God drew near. I looked into a mirror this morning and asked myself the same question..."what's next."
I choked out my thanks this morning as I was fixing my hair. How beautiful the view this side of three years. Fear was a motivator then. At times it still is, but I have learned some things in these past three years of life...we never walk alone. Never once.
Whatever your circumstances are right at this very minute, stop where you are. Close your eyes. Whisper His name. He is near. Emmanuel.
Let this be your thankfilled prayer and motivation: He is faithful. It's His gift to you...
I woke up this morning early. Sitting down with a cup of coffee and my devotions, I was thrilled to have the time to myself. I am on the final chapter, reading through the Psalms of ascent. When the psalmist is calling God to remember, and to draw near.
As I was encouraged to do in my study, I looked back. And I remembered. Three years ago, choking down my grief, I stood before the mirror asking myself, "what's next?" Three years past, I was in surgery at this exact time. A double mastectomy. Lifelong scars. Heart memories of when God drew near. I looked into a mirror this morning and asked myself the same question..."what's next."
I choked out my thanks this morning as I was fixing my hair. How beautiful the view this side of three years. Fear was a motivator then. At times it still is, but I have learned some things in these past three years of life...we never walk alone. Never once.
Whatever your circumstances are right at this very minute, stop where you are. Close your eyes. Whisper His name. He is near. Emmanuel.
Let this be your thankfilled prayer and motivation: He is faithful. It's His gift to you...
Friday, December 13, 2013
'Tis the Season...
The twelve days of Christmas. I have the song or the story (if you've read the book) stuck in my mind. Its been there for...twelve days. :) Thirteen actually, if you count today.
This week has flown past.
Cade had surgery yesterday. He had a hernia repair. Yes, minor and very fixable, but it seriously had this mama concerned. It's my baby. ANY time a kiddo goes under for a procedure of any type, I'm concerned. Not that I could do anything about it, but hey-a moms gotta worry, right? He is recovering nicely, with little to no pain. Such a blessing and so very thankful that things went great!
Aaron's aunt is in from OH. Our busy weeks of Christmas fun have begun. My presents are purchased, the decorating done, now all I need is a warm winters nap. Since that isn't likely to happen anytime soon, I'll settle for a warm peppermint mocha. Non-fat, no whip, grande. Perfection.
I'm not exactly sure when my love of all things peppermint started, but I have a strong like for the cooling goodness. Chap stick; mocha's; creamer; shakes (the Trim Healthy Mama kind); you name it-I love it!
Yes, the season is upon us. CHRISTmas. The time for singing.
Let's be honest. If you're a worship leader, your yearly nightmare has begun. I have tinkered and thunked my way through a good many Christmas carols this year already. Goodness. I love to sing them, but to play them-oy!
Regardless of what it is this season, I hope it finds you well. Good tidings of great joy to you and your family! Whether its visits from loved ones; favorite Christmas songs and traditions; yummy desserts; or you have a heavy heart this season, remember this. Emmanuel, the God with us, is better to us than He has to be. Always.
This week has flown past.
Cade had surgery yesterday. He had a hernia repair. Yes, minor and very fixable, but it seriously had this mama concerned. It's my baby. ANY time a kiddo goes under for a procedure of any type, I'm concerned. Not that I could do anything about it, but hey-a moms gotta worry, right? He is recovering nicely, with little to no pain. Such a blessing and so very thankful that things went great!
Aaron's aunt is in from OH. Our busy weeks of Christmas fun have begun. My presents are purchased, the decorating done, now all I need is a warm winters nap. Since that isn't likely to happen anytime soon, I'll settle for a warm peppermint mocha. Non-fat, no whip, grande. Perfection.
I'm not exactly sure when my love of all things peppermint started, but I have a strong like for the cooling goodness. Chap stick; mocha's; creamer; shakes (the Trim Healthy Mama kind); you name it-I love it!
Yes, the season is upon us. CHRISTmas. The time for singing.
Let's be honest. If you're a worship leader, your yearly nightmare has begun. I have tinkered and thunked my way through a good many Christmas carols this year already. Goodness. I love to sing them, but to play them-oy!
Regardless of what it is this season, I hope it finds you well. Good tidings of great joy to you and your family! Whether its visits from loved ones; favorite Christmas songs and traditions; yummy desserts; or you have a heavy heart this season, remember this. Emmanuel, the God with us, is better to us than He has to be. Always.
Friday, December 6, 2013
The Same Love
This afternoon we had the blessing of watching a true gem. A handsome young man belonging to some good friends of ours. He came for just over an hour, but gave us a life-lesson of laughter and joy.
He doesn't communicate like you and I. God has gifted "Mr. T" uniquely. Perfectly. He was uncomfortable outside of his routine (I could relate: I'm so much the same). He began repeating over and over that he wanted to go for a ride. That he wanted to sing. He ran into the kitchen where there was a CD player and turned the music on. Loud. And he began to dance. As he grew more comfortable with us, he and Cade began chasing each other through the house calling each other names. "Monkey Butt" was the game they played/made up/called each other. Pretty spiritual, eh?
You choose the humble and raise them high
He doesn't communicate like you and I. God has gifted "Mr. T" uniquely. Perfectly. He was uncomfortable outside of his routine (I could relate: I'm so much the same). He began repeating over and over that he wanted to go for a ride. That he wanted to sing. He ran into the kitchen where there was a CD player and turned the music on. Loud. And he began to dance. As he grew more comfortable with us, he and Cade began chasing each other through the house calling each other names. "Monkey Butt" was the game they played/made up/called each other. Pretty spiritual, eh?
You choose the humble and raise them high
You choose the weak and make them strong
You heal our brokenness inside and give us life.
His excitement over the songs was contagious. Palpable. It inspired us all. This joy-filled boy, fist pumping in the air shouting songs that would rival any holiday music station. I know for sure the neighbors didn't catch this dance scene as they did earlier in the week as I was having a personal celebration. But I know that God saw. And dance we did.
During this beautifully, birth-pained season that makes memories both good and bad surface. It suddenly seems brighter. Hope-filled.
Yes, we danced. If you can imagine it-we even fist pumped. The loud cadence of the drums, felt to the tips of our toes. Cade, Mr. T, Aaron, and myself. Dancing to the rhythm of love. To the tune of "The Same Love." God's. Holy, unblemished, and wholly pure. Calling us to put aside our worry. Drawing us out of our mental reverie. Yes, each of us.
The same love that set the captives free
The same love that opened eyes to see
Is calling us all by name
You are calling us all by name
The same God that spread the heavens wide
The same God that was crucified
Is calling us all by name
You are calling us all by name
I guess sometimes the only way we can hear it is to be like Mr. T, and turn the music up.
Loud.
Friday, November 29, 2013
Traditions...
Good Friday morning to you!
This is our typical day, where in our family, everything is "tradition." Libbi still hasn't quite caught the gist of things, so we will let it slide...
Speaking of Libs, she had me awake early. Non-traditionalist that she was being (instead of sleeping in) we were playing at five-something. It's difficult to be frustrated by such cuteness. Seriously. She has two huge teeth in the front, along with about six others in various stages. Did I mention she has curls forming?
Cade is my "stick-to-task" manager. Almost to the point of annoying, but again-the cuteness factor. I'm a sucker for my kids!
Our tradition holds that we put up the tree and decorate everything. Every color imaginable. Each year we find new and exciting ways to celebrate the risen and coming King. Yes, there will be cookies, movies, and music.
With my almost-walking ten month old-this could get interesting. 😳
I pray this holiday season has a wonderful start of the joy for you and yours. I'll try to capture some pictures to share. If you stand around here too long, you are likely to lose your Achilles heel as Libbi is proficient and deadly with her walker. The little tooth-filled smile is quite healing.
So I told you I had some exciting news coming in a previous post...well i do! Not only have I begun the guest blogging with pinxwear.com but I have also finished the editing of my book! Yeah! (fist pump happening here!) Yes, I have a few things to review before it gets sent back. Prayerfully considering titles and covers. Whew! I never thought I'd be here to this point. Exciting!!!
My bio and selfie (I despise these)...along with my first contribution is up and available for review over at pinxwear.com. Check it out and let me know what you think!
My little cuteness is up from her early morning nap, so I must go.
Much love to you all,
Erin
This is our typical day, where in our family, everything is "tradition." Libbi still hasn't quite caught the gist of things, so we will let it slide...
Speaking of Libs, she had me awake early. Non-traditionalist that she was being (instead of sleeping in) we were playing at five-something. It's difficult to be frustrated by such cuteness. Seriously. She has two huge teeth in the front, along with about six others in various stages. Did I mention she has curls forming?
Cade is my "stick-to-task" manager. Almost to the point of annoying, but again-the cuteness factor. I'm a sucker for my kids!
Our tradition holds that we put up the tree and decorate everything. Every color imaginable. Each year we find new and exciting ways to celebrate the risen and coming King. Yes, there will be cookies, movies, and music.
With my almost-walking ten month old-this could get interesting. 😳
I pray this holiday season has a wonderful start of the joy for you and yours. I'll try to capture some pictures to share. If you stand around here too long, you are likely to lose your Achilles heel as Libbi is proficient and deadly with her walker. The little tooth-filled smile is quite healing.
So I told you I had some exciting news coming in a previous post...well i do! Not only have I begun the guest blogging with pinxwear.com but I have also finished the editing of my book! Yeah! (fist pump happening here!) Yes, I have a few things to review before it gets sent back. Prayerfully considering titles and covers. Whew! I never thought I'd be here to this point. Exciting!!!
My bio and selfie (I despise these)...along with my first contribution is up and available for review over at pinxwear.com. Check it out and let me know what you think!
My little cuteness is up from her early morning nap, so I must go.
Much love to you all,
Erin
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