One Plus One by Jojo Moyes

An enjoyable read about a "down on their luck" entirely dysfunctional family with an eternally optimistic "Mum". An English author, Ms. Moyes writes convincingly of what it is to be financially strapped and not being able to get your head above water -- with 2 kids, and a husband who has walked out. The characters are authentic, though a bit unique, and Jess, the mom, has the same deep love and fiercely protective feelings for her kids as any mom. Unsure how the story would end, I was pleasantly surprised -- as I love happy endings. My only difficulty, as often is the case, is the very common usage of language that I feel could just as well be left out.

Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

Because the book wasn't available, it was a great listen on audio book! An excellent reader shared the story of Vivian (originally Neve), currently a 91 year old living in Maine. Her life has been tragedy after tragedy, becoming an orphan at 9 and traveling in 1929 with other NYC orphans on a train to the midwest where couples take the children in -- sometimes because they want to have children, sometimes because they need workers on their farms, in their businesses or as nannies to their many children. The reader tells Vivian's story via a young teenager named Molly, who gets "thrown together" with Vivian --doing community service at the old lady's home. Little do either of them realize that healing will take place in each of their lives because of their unusual friendship. They bond because of the many shared emotions and experiences that they have each had in their lives. This is a story of resiliency and hope, one which I want to believe in; in this day and age of so many hurting children and families. I want to believe that even one person can make a huge difference, simply by kind words and acceptance of the other, that a wounded person can come through and be healed. My faith tells me that Jesus is the ONE who truly transforms; yet I also believe that God puts strength and determination in the hearts of wounded people, who come through their struggles and make a better life than the one in which they are born. The other element that I loved was the author's great phrases at the ends of the chapters, such as "As I walked away, I left my childhood on the dirty floor of that cabin." She had many such sentences that encapsulated a deep thought.

Echoes of His Presence by Ray VanderLaan

I began reading this to remind me of our Israel trip last year, and to corollate with my reading of Acts. It has been a great reminder: insulas, the Jewish holidays, the Jericho Road, Gethsemane, the Eastern Gate, the journey into Jerusalem. Ray uses different characters during Jesus' day who encounter the Master in different places and in different ways. He is a great storyteller, but more than that - he creates his stories in the context of Jewish culture intertwining with the Roman government. Stone-masons, shepherds, fishermen, Zealots, women, Essenes - all come to the Rabbi and see in Him the Way, to salvation, to purpose, to heaven. Thoroughly enjoyed this journey back to Israel in Jesus' day.

Bridge to Haven by Francine Rivers

Great story of redemption, so like Francine Rivers. Abra is left by her mom under the Bridge to Haven as a newborn. Pastor Zeke hears God's voice as he is out walking and praying, telling him to head towards the bridge, where he rescues the baby. Abra is loved by many, but never "feels" it--she always feels like the one who was not wanted --especially by God; so she travels down a path of destruction. God continues to woo her with hymn melodies that she learned as a youngster at the piano, by other believers she meets along the way, and at rock bottom, Abra finally surrenders after a 5 year hiatus from the hometown people who love her. Filled with many funny Christian characters who exhibit God's mercy, rather than judgement, is refreshing. I also like the way Rivers shows how God whispers words to His kids, via her use of italics. One of my favorite characters is Zeke, who reminds me so much of Bill- just hanging out with the townspeople, loving them into the Kingdom; a faithful pastor who is not about new programs and success, but about serving his congregation and community.

Together: Reclaiming Co-Leadership in Marriage by tim+anne evans

What a great time Bill and I have had discussing this book! The Evans' premise is that God created marriage in the Garden in Genesis 2--pre-fall; advocating that we should enter into our marriages as He first intended it, as co-leaders. For so many years I have struggled as I observed the way our conservative churches have treated women: help in the nursery, teach children, serve in the kitchen, play the piano -- but don't be a "strong" leader or too outspoken as that is the men's roles. This book gave me a longing and a framework to understand that perhaps God has something more in mind for women. It gives me a theology to understand and accept women's leadership roles in the church-- as board members, teachers and even pastors. My background still makes me cautious about a full fledged Senior Pastor, but I am willing to be open! Another great concept is IOTL - Inquire of the Lord. My teaching and how Bill and i handled this in our marriage was to talk/discuss/share and determine decisions together --if we could not come to an agreement, the man---who is the "cover" and spiritual leader over me, would make the final call. Tim and Anne suggest that a married couple should continue to IOTL until they both have a green light - true co-leadership. They also review and refute many of the passages of Scripture that have been used to support the male hierarchy position of marriage, and discuss how God has uniquely gifted women in many different ways that have been stifled in the church, and yet used in work and para church organizations. Because Bill is a servant-leader, who has modeled well how to truly love and respect me in our marriage -- it makes me realize that he is much like Jesus' example in how he treated and uplifted women, which in turn makes me wonder where the church got the idea of women as subordinate to men. This book is a good challenge to study and learn more; but in the meantime, I am excited about being involved in a ministry that views women in a different way than how I have been trained.

Dust to Flesh by R. L. Stoll

I heard about this book in the local paper because it was written by a young author in the Plainwell area. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy it. Awkward dialogue, kind of a sci-fi them and I plowed through because of my determination to finish it. She has targeted juvenile youth so perhaps she might get an audience in her future books in this series---but not from me.

Bound South by Susan Rebecca White

Interesting, but difficult, read from the perspectives of three Southern females, mostly the story of Louise - the "proper" Atlanta wife and mother. As I usually feel, too much course language--always wondering why it is needed; aren't there other words to express the feelings and anger? My biggest takeaway was that every family walks through journeys that are unexpected: rebellious teenagers, marriage discontent, in-law issues, dysfunctional pasts, friends who divorce, unwed pregnancies……. Louise attempts to walk in the best way she can, with candor. I never really knew what the author was presenting spiritually; she covered the gamut of religions with some sarcasm thrown in, but in the end -- inclusiveness prevails in the final scene; a young Jewish man, an Episcopalian mom, a Presbyterian dad, two gay men and a daughter who finds God in serving the homeless at a Catholic mission. I think the author wanted to bring the issues out in the open rather than carry on the myth in the South (and many other places), that appearances matter more than real relationships.

The Irresistible Blueberry Bakeshop & Cafe by Mary Simses

FUN! Perfect read over a rainy Labor Day weekend! Love story triangle -- Ellen leaves Manhatten to discover more about her recently deceased grandmother and falls in love with small town, good looking Roy. Problem: she has a wedding planned in 3 months to her high powered lawyer/politician fiancé. It made me appreciate the small town we live in, the desires for "smaller", simpler goals in life rather than money, success and power. I also loved that Ellen finally realizes that all of her original goals were really her mother's ideas of what she should "look like". Ellen's trip to Beacon was a gift from her grandmother, encouraging Ellen to re-think what was most important: photography and blueberry muffins, and family legacies.

Taylor's Gift by Todd & Tara Storch

The Storch's daughter, 13 year old Taylor, dies in a Colorado hospital after fatal injuries in a skiing accident. This is the heartfelt and triumphant story of a family who turned their deep grief into a cause -- organ donation. Most gripping were the stories of the different individuals who benefited from Taylor's organs, the ongoing support of Christian friends and family when Tara fell into depression, the amazing miracles that led Todd to leave his job to start the Foundation and the honest revelations of parents who handled grief in totally different ways. This story challenged me to face the many positives involved in organ donation--and to determine to make my decision on this very important issue.

The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd

An enjoyable read, as the Civil War/ Slavery era intrigues me. Kidd introduces her theme of women's abolition with a Charleston slave-owning family; with some daughters who identify deeply with the plight of their slaves. Both Sarah and Angelina at young ages, witness punishments to their slaves by an overbearing, cruel mother--who had been taught that she needed to exert great authority, short on mercy or compassion. The chapters are presented by Sarah, then Handful, her personal maidservant; each voicing her own hidden angers and fears and dreams that were planted in each at young ages. Some criticisms by reviewers felt that the story did not present enough conflict between Sarah and Handful; that they did not reach a full "sisterhood" of understanding or shared angst. But it was understandable to me that the full trust factor was not there- too much tension from hurtful experiences in Handful's past. I loved that this story was based loosely on a true historical character, Sarah Grimke, a Quaker women's right crusader. I find it amazing that she boldly went against her parents and Southern roots to fight valiantly for what she believed. It once again makes me wonder what I would be passionate about--standing against evil, instead of shrugging my shoulders and shaking my head over injustice and current moral issues.

Halftime by Bob Buford

Reading this for a Miller Energy book review, it was pertinent to my work and personal life. Bob relates his first "half", living for his job and being successful; but steps back to re-evaluate in his mid-life and realizes he needs to write out what he wants for his second "half". Right now, we have concluded that first half: the pastoring of various churches and the ministering, teaching, leading, "controlling", initiating, creating, event planning--all done to carry on the work God had called us to do. Now, into our second half, we are listening and evaluating what our gifts are, what energizes us and what significance/purpose God has for us in this new place called semi-retirement. We want to enjoy our days, but desire to contribute and make the most of what earthly days we have left. Will it be to love on our grandkids, to assist our adult children, to help others with "projects", to start a small business, to share our home with airbnb guests? Or does it need to look like a Kingdom project/purpose with other para-church groups? We want to serve and love, and give God the Glory. We are excited to see what that looks like!

A June Day

Companionship -- a word I like and use often in reference to the "growing old together" love story of Bill and I. Today was that kind of day. Finishing one another's sentences, completing the task that the other started, picking the weeds together, one bringing up a topic that the other was just thinking about… and ending the day sitting together in the swing as we listen to the water in the pond and the crickets, and watching the blurry sliver of a moon rise to take its place in the dark sky. Are these types of days what God has in mind for us -- a companionship with Him that is easy, enjoyable, somewhat serene, rhythmic, and fulfilling? I hope so.

Longbourn by Jo Baker

Written by an English author, set in the 1800's, the "extended" story of what went on downstairs in the Bennet home rather than Jane Austen's perspective of the "chief players", who lived upstairs. Touted as Downton Abbey meets Pride and Prejudice, this was a good read. I loved the author's clever way of presenting a portion of the story, then on the next page - in an obscure way, she relates "the rest of the story". She made me smile with some of these "bomb droppers"--and I would have to go back and re-read her first presentation to make sure I was clear on what she had really said. A very clever way with her words. I also loved when she went took a section of the book to return to the past so we could fully understand the characters' stories. Sarah's perspectives of the unimportance of what her mistresses deemed important, was challenging to me. She walked in London, holding packages and watching the money being spent -- and mused about what peculiar creatures the upscale families were, to spend their time and money in picking out new curtains, pillows, decor, dresses --what did it really matter anyway? To be so burdened by continual work, then to be able to briefly enjoy minutes in the fresh air, or time in the kitchen with friends --and not be caught up in "wanting more"; but in knowing that to be loved made the biggest difference of all.

The Street Lawyer by John Grisham

First time read of this very prolific author! Loved the concept of a big time money making attorney switching up and using his gifts to assist the homeless. God can use non-believers to challenge believers in "seeing the least of these". Interesting, educational, inspiring.

The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani

Ciro and Enza's love story, from the mountains of Northern Italy, to the streets of Manhattan--and then to the cold winters of Minnesota. A satisfying story of life, love and loss. Enjoyed the descriptions of the Metropolitan Opera in NYC as well as the early convent life where Ciro was raised by loving nuns. A bereft and lonely young boy who works hard to make his way after being "knocked down" - it's the kind of hard luck story that resonates with me. One of my favorite chapters was when Ciro returns to sweep Enza off her feet and away from her wedding ceremony -- and she sacrificially gives up her dream position in NYC to make a life with this man that she has had on her heart since she was a teenager. How many kids in today's culture would follow their man, and give up their passion? Only one who was secure enough in themselves to realize that the accolades of men and position mean nothing -- joy in life comes from listening to the still voice within.

Choosing to SEE by Mary Beth Chapman

A great autobiographical message of hope from the wife of one of the best loved Christian contemporary artists, Steven Curtis Chapman. Married young, they faced a variety of issues in their first years: financial, unexpected pregnancy, some in-law difficulties. Mary Beth realized early on that she was totally different from her husband--the laughing, friendly and creative entertainer. She, quiet and analytic with a plan for everything in her life --but it mostly never worked out the way she planned! Three biological kids, then 3 more adopted Chinese daughters later, they faced the hugest tragedy of their lives--the accidental death of their youngest, who had just turned five. Mary Beth outlines the chronic depression she faced throughout their marriage, then the deep grief. Her journal entries were raw with emotion and feeling, but she and her family clung to their hope in Christ and His goodness. A story of redemption and the hard journey that accompanies those who are sold out to God.

StrengthsFinder by Tom Rath

My quarterly book review for MEC, this was a short read describing over 25 strengths that are found in different combinations in all people. For more in-depth, I took the online test which was an eye opener as to my top 5 strengths. I found that I lead with connectiveness, meaning that I want those around me to mesh, to interact, to "connect". This explains why I make the effort to ask engaging questions that connect one another --via dinner conversations, Bible study, MEC meetings, Sunday School class. My others were communication (enjoy leading and no fear in being in front of people), responsibility (approval need, thus do all the detail; feel the deep need to care for family matters), developer (as Pastor's wife, as Bible study leader who wants to see changes; as mom who wants to see growth;). I didn't agree with Context, as it made it seem that I love and study history; I read historical novels and like to understand people's history so that I can understand them better. After reading the other choices, I would guess that I also might be an Arranger, loving to plan events, outings and meetings. This study made me realize that I am not just a combination of 4 different temperaments, as I have studied before-but in fact as God says, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made" and am made up of a unique combination of many traits. That makes me realize that not many other people are exactly like me, because I was created with different aspects of these strengths. Someone who is similar may have other aspects of the strengths. Brings a smile to my face--that God really made us "one of a kind"!!

Miracle in the City of Angels by Elle Conner

Descriptive journal from a mom who prayed and dreamed of a daughter, after birthing 2 sons. Their adoption journey reminded me so much of our daughter and son-in-law's three year marathon of international adoption. This couple traveled to Russia to pick up their little girl and endured the same legalities, delayed court dates, and testifying before a frightening judge -- and feeling numb and sad as they observed so many babies in an orphanage that did not have enough caregivers. A good read that gave me a better understanding of what is ahead for the Tegelaars.

Body Surfing by Anita Shreve

It took a while to get used to the author's style, but the story moved along quickly; and I am glad I read this as it introduced me to the author, who also wrote Aviator's Wife, one on my book list. Sydney lands a summer job as a tutor, while regrouping from the loss of her husband. Shreve writes descriptively of the various family members, and the dysfunctions that lie beneath the surface. I did not love how all the sub-plots played out, but came to enjoy the style. It gave cause to reflect on our initial perceptions of people and situations; and how they sometimes are entirely wrong.

Defending Jacob by William Landay

Our book club reading for March -- Bill also read this with me, so had a good discussion with him. The internal conflicts of a family with a 14 year old son convicted of murder. Delves into the background of the father who a history of pathological males in his family. His own father in jail, he never brought himself to tell his wife of this family "heritage". When the attorney father has to face this charge, all of the history pours back in. Denying that it could be an inherited anger/sociopathic "tendency" -- because he has never had that inclination to kill or to be aloof to others' suffering, the father desperately believes in his son; however the mother questions because she has been aware of the psychological leanings (acting out/ aggression) of her son since he has been small. A complicated book as you doubt the boy, but hope for the best. Because another suspect steps up out of the blue to admit his guilt (coerced by a gangster thug who is friends with the jailed grandfather) -- the charges are dropped. The family starts to get their lives back in order, but another incident sets off alarms in the mother and she chooses the ultimate sacrifice. Ending was hard to read. As I get older, I realize that I love happy endings; in movies and books. The optimist in me believes that the "goodness" in people and in God's ability to "turn our failures into good" -- should win out. Reality is that it does not always work that way.

The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

Randy Pausch was a gifted educator -- raised by parents who assisted him in believing that dreams are possible, he proceeds through life, continually checking off those dreams as they are attained. At 39,he marries and has 3 kids, while teaching computer science at Carnegie Mellon. He appears to have loved this position, and the opportunities it afforded him to "help" students achieve their dreams and believe in themselves. Diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in 2007, he faces the next months with courage and wit -attacking the disease with all that he has. This memoir was poignant because of Amy and Arlene, and my friend Lynne who battled the same disease for less than a year. Randy wrote this book in conjunction with his "Last Lecture" at Carnegie Mellon, saying good-bye to over 400 people crowded into the small auditorium. He emphasized then that he did it to leave a legacy with his small kids of who he was and that he loved life; he wanted them to know him, but he also wanted to make sure they knew that he loved them. Many themes come through, but the most consistent is his encouragement to stay positive and enjoy the time that is given. He doesn't mention faith or heaven, and it makes me wonder that such a courageous, loving, and positive man could remain so in his situation without faith. The Last Lecture was given in April 2008. Randy Pausch died in August 2008.

Firstlights by Sue Monk Kidd

Short devotional thoughts, compiled from early writings in Guidepost, the author struck a chord in me. As I have been studying rest and contemplation, my desire to listen in silence has increased over the past year. Sue Monk's experiences validate what God has been teaching me on my journey. I didn't always agree with her theology, but her musings and illustrations were good and have caused me to think about looking for daily "moments" from God, that I can write about. Lord, give me those thoughts.

Unbroken by Laura Hilldenbrand

Difficult read. Story of Louie Zamperini, almost Olympian, who was drafted into the army for World War II. The main gist of the story was that he had an infectious joy for living and an indomitable spirit that never quit. He faced so many unimaginable sufferings as he not only went down with a plane and lived over 40 days on a raft in the middle of the Pacific with 2 others, but also endured all of the atrocities of Japanese POW camps. So intense, I was happy for the end; Loved that the author included all of the PTS that Louie was suffering and the amazing "healing" (alcoholism/ rages/ broken marriage/ chronic nightmares)that he experienced after giving his life to the Lord at a Billy Graham revival. Immediately, he never wanted another drink nor had another nightmare. How God bestows miracles in the most awful circumstances-- Praise Him.

February Snow

While enjoying a walk through our neighborhood in the umpteenth blizzard of the year, I looked up from my plodding and "safe" baby steps in the unplowed street --and saw God! As Psalm 29 reminded me in my reading that morning, "God sits ENTHRONED over the flood" (of snow!) just as He sits enthroned over the drought in CA or the ice in GA. God is in the mounds, the unrelenting winds of white, the pristine pureness, the clogged roads that impatient humans want to conquer. The activities that seemed important fade as we sit by the fire, we gaze out the window into the vast whiteness, we bake, we take slow walks going nowhere, and our hearts and souls rest from the ever frenetic pace that is our life. God is in the snow --He calls us to sit & listen, to reflect on our lives, to hear for the next steps that He is directing. Thankful.

When Zachary Beaver Came to Town by Kimberly Willis Holt

I picked this up on a trip to the library with Azi --in the juvenile area, but always remember liking Caldecott or other award winning books. It did not disappoint! Toby and Cal are neighbors in a small TX town, best buds who ride their bikes all over town and are known by everyone. Enter Zachary Beaver, the largest boy they have ever met @ almost 600 pounds! He arrives in a trailer pulled by his agent, and the whole town comes out to parade past his trailer door to get a glimpse--at a cost of 50 cents. When his agent leaves, the 2 boys determine to find out more about Zachary; thus begins a series of small incidents of kindness towards this young man of 15 who has been living behind the mask of loneliness and sadness over his mother's death. Throughout, other hard issues are being dealt with in both Cal's & Toby's lives. There is healing and grace in community, in being involved in other people's lives by giving and receiving. A great look at diversity, judging, appearances, and friendship.