The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

Another great story of redemption -- a broken young girl from the foster care system who lives with the memory of her greatest mistake, who cannot accept love from others, who feels she needs to be self-sufficient, who does not trust anyone, who doesn't know how to connect or communicate with others---uses her one learned skill, the meanings of different flowers, to make her way in the world. I loved that a few wonderful people along the way loved & accepted Victoria, without asking for her to change. Are there people that God places in my life, that I am called to love unconditionally, with all of their warts and issues---but I miss the call because they are prickly and broken, and I discard them for someone else to care for? Give me eyes to see, Lord.

The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

Extraordinary Read. A man with "demons" from his war years, seeking to live a secluded life as a lighthouse keeper meets a joyful, energetic young lady --they fall in love; and both head to his commission -- an isolated island off the coast of Australia where they start their life together, only seeing other people every three months when the supplies are delivered. Truth is the underlying theme-- "what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive". The first step into deceit is the downfall of their lives-- Tom trying to please Isobel's greatest desire, the ensuing "finding out", the pain associated with the poor choice, the reconciliation and forgiveness required to move ahead. It causes me to ponder about what choices I would make for my deepest desires, or for someone I love. A thoughtful novel.

A Disney Adventure

The long anticipated trip to FL was wonderful! Bill & I landed in Orlando on a Thursday evening and spent the evening pigging out at Red Lobster, and resting in the hot tub--trying to shed the unrelenting colds and coughs that plagued us from the previous two weeks. The Tegelaar Fam joined us on Friday afternoon, having made the 9 hour trek in their trusty Family Vanmobile. What fun to spend time playing with the kids -- in the resort pool, on the water slides. Boppa had a ball, chasing after Zeal and Trux in the water, sliding down the baby pool and teaching them to do cannonballs. Sunday was our first full day of parks- a well planned out adventure from organized Mikkel. Only downside was the LONG 70 minute wait for "Soarin" which was a great ride when we finally got there! Boppa spent time playing with flexible, fun Trux since he was too short. The other highlight that day for Lita was the Princess Party at Akershus Hall. Zeal & Azi dressed up in pretty dresses and we met 5 princesses (Cinderella/Snow White/ Belle/Aurora/ Ariel). Zeal's little face lit up as each one stopped by our table to speak to the girls. Although Z did not like the fast roller coaster rides & dark places, we found many spots that she loved. Meeting Mickey, Donald and Goofy were extremely fun for her, as were the calmer rides like It's a Small World and the Seven Dwarfs ride. Azi & Jet were up for fast and furious and loved Space Mountain, Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain and any other mountain!! The Tegelaars spent extra time at Epcot where Jet really loved the different cultures depicted. Azi, Mikkel & I stayed late to do a few fun Azi "picks"-- President's Hall, Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress, and some shopping! The kids are growing up - Azi, especially. Although 4 days was a bit exhausting for old Boppa & Lita; the laughter, delight and extra time with each one was a precious gift! It made me smile to see Mikkel interacting with strangers, engaging in conversations -- a chip off the old daddy's block!! Teg remains unflappable in stressful situations, and carries on as a true "servant husband" chipping in to complete Mik's well laid out plans. Fun, fast, fantastic, frustrating, frolicKy, frivolous, flamboyant --UNFORGETTABLE.

Lydia's Party by Margaret Haskins

“Sumptuous . . . a repast that’s alternately uncomfortable and soothing, weepy and jubilant, evocative and realistic. Party host and art teacher Lydia is having her annual dinner for her women friends. . . . In a quirky, impossibly magical and sweetly charming twist, Lydia helps guide them all to forgiveness.” —Publishers Weekly A great review on this book; Lydia wants to believe in her friends and in the past comaraderies they have shared, each with their own struggles and idiosyncrasies. Each friend coming to her home on this blustery Chicago evening has thoughts to share about the others in the hours leading up to the party; but Lydia's courageous announcement changes everything. They walk forward together in a compassionate and accepting manner. This is real life, and it so reminded me of my sister, Amy, and how she was about building bridges with her friends: a final act of grace and mercy before her death.

Found by Micha Boyett

In the midst of a busy, a bit overwhelming summer - I ordered this book, after reading an article by Micha on Ann Voscamp's website. I fell in love with her heart, opening her feelings and failures to her readers. The book is a story of her search for a vibrant living faith, without the "shoulds and oughts" that were a part of her Southern Baptist background. In marrying a Lutheran believer, her mind was opened to a deeper faith that gave her a love for weekly communion, and the richness of liturgy. She also was searching for her "old" prayer life when she had more time to minister and lead young people. Now with a new baby who demanded her time and strength, she finds that her prayers are found in the everyday moments of her life. As I have been learning more about the old spiritual disciplines of the Roman Catholic Church (lechtio divina/prayer labyrinths/ prayers of imagination); I was struck with how my journey has mirrored hers. Here we are in a church that celebrates the Lord's Supper on a weekly basis, and where a prayer workshop introduces liturgy--yet always hanging on to the grace filled salvation of Jesus and the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit at our weekly gatherings. I find that I am wanting more of Jesus, more of praying His Word over my family, and a deeper searching of how that will play out in my next phase of life.

June Ramblings

A bit exhausted, my mind is rambling over the past several weeks: my mom's mild stroke with hospital and rehab stays, then home for 24 hour care; my dad's emotional and physical need for her while home alone, thus causing his own hospital and rehab stay. I am wondering why it takes so long for children to fully appreciate and understand their parents. As a younger and "wiser" thirty-something, I could appreciate their support and visits --but laugh at their idiosyncrasies with a shake of my head. This past year has held more visits, more care-giving, and more insight into who they really were and are. My mom is delighted that I would take an interest in her younger years--and I? I am so surprised at who she really was: adventurously joining the Navy, perfectionistic in her way of washing, canning, choosing clothes, crocheting, and working so hard to "remember to do it right". Our Talons Out Flight to Washington in April truly opened my eyes to "see" from my mother's perspective and feel - oh so proud of them. Now, as my siblings and I (minus two) proceed to determine end of life care for my dad -- I am sad and nostalgic for all they have gone through in their 92 years, and in their almost 69 years of marriage together. How do we choose a care facility? How do we separate them, knowing my dad will quickly decline? What should he take? Are meds truly necessary for him now when he is not interested in living this way? What is best for each of them? Is God loving him as Zephaniah 3:17 says-- taking great delight in him, quieting him with his love, rejoicing over him with singing? If that is true, why am I so sad? It is the journey of life, to love and engage with people -- and then to watch the kids and grandkids take your place, as you prepare to be with Jesus. Help us to walk well with him in these last months.

A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

I was excited to read this book because of all of the hype, but it left me "flat". A rather intricate rambling storyline about the Whitshank family, both the patriarchs Junior and Linnie, and the parents, Red and Abbey--and their kids. The story felt dis-jointed. I am guessing that the author's intent was to introduce characters and the history of the family, then let the reader pull all the pieces together -- which I could not. After the death of one of the main characters, I failed to see the "spool of blue thread" weaving throughout. The ending was bizarre--with a concluding scene on Denny rather than Red.

The Girls of Mischief Bay by Susan Mallery

Book Club chose a "fluffy" story this month, easy read. The story chronicled 3 women in very different stages of life who each were faced with challenges to overcome-- its themes were friendships, relationships and loyalty. My criticisms were in the actual writing --or possibly lack of editing. Many typos and missed words, and right from the opening chapters -- some repeated thoughts/conversations that had already been written. The worst was when the 2 friends went to visit the third when she was in her grief stages; the author had already had them visit prior to this; but this time she wrote as if they had never been there. Wierd. Possibly the publishing firm, MIRO, which I had never heard of.

The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

Loved the history and author's take on the life with Charles Lindbergh; from what Mom said- the final details on his liaisons with other women became a well known fact. Such a poor ending to a fairytale story of one of America's greats; however so familiar with other popular and favored men and women in powerful and revered positions. Self/Flesh/Desire/Pride -all intercede and poor choices are made that wound others and mar the amazing accomplishments that have been made. I wish the author had gotten to the "new" Anne a little earlier, instead of so much effort on the Anne that Charles made. So sad to read how the children were affected, always seeking his love; but never able to be themselves in their home when he was there. The chapters on the kidnapping were heart-wrenching; and the way the paparazzi messed up their lives was so sad. Good read.

Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good by Jan Karon

Having read the Mitford stories several years ago, I wondered if I could jump into this book; but the author does such a great job of reminding us of the characters and background, that I had no trouble enjoying it immensely. Because Father Tim mirrors Bill's journey, there are so many parallels to our life -- retiring from a church, trying to find purpose without the ministry, transitioning into "slower" and realizing that all of life is "ministry". Father Tim has embraced this community and still finds places to love others well as he travels this road of "retirement". He is a "regular" guy which reminds me so much of Bill who listens and loves, and others feel accepted enough to share their stories. A very enjoyable and relatable read.

Spring Musings ~ California Trip

Boppa and Lita met Walker James Hendren on February 26th, 3 weeks after his February 3rd appearance. He has perfect little features, small button nose and a little heart shaped mouth, light brown hair and hardly any eyebrows. His first month has been relatively easy for Mom and Dad, crying only when hungry. He observantly looks around, but does enjoy sleeping on Mom or Dad's chest rather than in his cute little cradle! Maelie, somehow knowing that big sisters must "grow up", has begun to play by herself for longer periods of time - aided greatly by the amazing kitchen re-purposed from a TV stand by Boppa's clever hands. He thoroughly enjoyed roaming Noe Valley for ideas to transform this gem, as well as scouting with Ben in Santa Cruz. The hunt was worth every step and "dime". Fun things with Maelie: Lita taking her to Story Time, a lttle tug of war regarding the pre-school rope & not eating in the children's area--Maelie walking right to the doorway with feet on the "line", then looking back at me so I knew that she was obeying to the very "letter of the law". HA! Gardening with Boppa for a full hour as he pulled weeds and she pushed dirt out of the beds and onto the sidewalk. She worked so hard with lots of affirmation from him. 2 nights of sleeping with her at Ben & Jenny's so as not to wake Evy-not much sleep for Lita! Snuggling in the morning with both girls-ahhh. Maelie waiting for me to come upstairs for breakfast, then putting her head on my shoulder as she sat next to me. Baking cookies, and watching her face as she licked the spoon! Seeing her management skills in action: taking things to Evy and "telling" her what to do with them, insistent that Evy put on her jp's and trying to trade her doll because she wanted to play with Evy's! "Ebby, Elmo pj's"; "watch show"; "put Walker down"; "Walker sleep"; "Aunt Jenny come?"; Also had some fun moments with Evy: Lita holding Walker and letting Evy sit next to me with Evy "holding" him--what a beam of delight--laughing as he looked at her & trying hard to kiss his mouth--with much instruction as to kissing only on the arm and patting his belly. She loves him so much, when we face-timed after coming home, she saw me and asked "where Walker"! Walking to see the sheep and goats, she let me hold her and talk about the animals -- she loved her Elmo pj's! We saw a large dog, but she was not excited about petting him --holding back and watching Dada and Mae-ey pet him. A girl after Lita's heart!! She needs her own space from Maelie's direction --so I predict there may be some conflict ahead!! Evy helped Lita bring out the cupcakes for Maelie's b-day party, such a proud little helper as she carefully carried each one out to the right person. She answers most questions with "Ya"--but when she really does not want to do something, it is fun to hear her say "No" very resolutely. Hard to kiss them good-bye as they are both so adorable at this age-and they will have grown so much by the next time we see them.

The Girl You Left Behind by JoJo Moyes

An excellent story of historical significance from World War I, the Great War, which began in July 1914 and ended in November 1918. Sophie is a Frenchwoman from a small village, where her family owned an inn. An impetuous free spirit, she headed to Paris and fell in love with Edouard, an artist. The story is centered back in her village where she returned when both her husband and brother-in-law were called into the service, to fight the invading enemy. The town is soon occupied by the Germans, and the Commandant demands use of the inn that Sophie and her sister are managing. The story is full of twists and tangles and hard choices, which Sophie makes based on her love of Edouard and his painting of her, hung in the common area of the inn. Liv picks up the storyline in 2006, because of her ownership of the painting--and her research to determine how it came into her hands. So many themes - of what war does to people, of judgmentalism in their town, of barters and deals made that would not have happened in peace time, and of course --some of the same themes recur in the modern day portion with Liz. With romance as the underlying base, the author takes us back to a time and place that is hard to comprehend. Definitely a page turner. Interestingly enough, I had just finished 2 other books written about the same time period--the Great War. Awake by Anna Hope tells the tale of 3 soldiers caught in the awfulness of war, and the interaction and decisions made; which then cause a ripple effect in the lives of family and friends who are faced with how to deal with their lives when the war ends. A more light-hearted story, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Annie Barrows, is based loosely on what happened during the Great War on a small island off the coast of England when the Germans occupy and oversee their community. All of the books refer to how the lands/foods/homes/businesses are taken over and the anger and resourcefulness of the people who must determine how to respond in the face of change. All three books gave me a different picture of the war, and of the various personalities that endured and inspired others to "keep on keeping on". A true visual of God's talented and gifted children.

Christmas 2014 Musings

Just a few weeks ago, our house was filled with grandkids... and already it seems like a dim memory. But wanting to reflect on the moments of fun with each one.... Maelie Jo ~ sitting on her box in the kitchen eating snacks; repeating the names of her cousins on the special picture of them together; wanting to see "Shanta (HO HO)"at Home Depot and the fire station, but just from afar; pointing out each character on the 6 grandkid stockings; wanting to sit with Boppa at our Mexican restaurant and repeatedly putting her head on his shoulder -ahhh; pushing her doggie in the grocery cart; wanting to walk down the steps like the adults rather than as she should; turning the fireplace on and off with a pure look of joy; kissing GGma and GGpa at their place; wanting to hold hands together and pray before meals; Zeal~ running into the Knight family gathering and immediately heading to GGma and GGpa to hug them - no prompting from Momma! Opening her Motorhome toy with a huge grin; carrying around her new soccer pillowcase from Lita; playing in the library--carefully guarding the door to the playhouse so no one could get in except her! Watching HGTV with Boppa; counting to the 5th step to jump off after a careful discussion with Lita; chatting happily about Uganda with Pastor Angela on Christmas Eve, so grown-up and informative. Jet~ his absolutely literal understanding on our every comment; surprise and excitement when he received his camera; the way he quickly caught on to Rummikub and Spoons; playing Hide n Seek-- his 2 great hiding spots (under the table, on the washer), assisted by Lita; his protection of his sisters and brother; rolling around the floor with Trux; jumping off the stairs; his sincere, beautiful smiles; Trux~ totally understanding one of our funny or inaccurate comments-with his standard reaction of Bopppppa or Azzzi, with just the right inflection; smiling and laughing, and yelling at his sibs when they got in his face; putting the puzzle together at lightening speed; eating and eating and eating; sitting on the floor with his Papa on Christmas Eve during the Children's story at Voyage Church --with some cute little African American girls staring at him! Sitting for 2 hours on Boppa's lap in the movie theater!! Azilea~ running into GrammaLita's arms when she arrived at the Knight Fam Christmas; doing nails together; movie day with the Madagascar Penquins; her thrilled expression when opening the necklace with the horse pendant; hugs; enjoying the library and seeing her find "Black Beauty"; her love of HGTV; countless numbers of hugs before departing; telling us that she will buy our home when we die, so she can live in MI! enjoying her love of setting the table uniquely; appreciating the new Christmas mugs; cuddling up in the red chair to read in the early mornings; Evelynn Rose~ watching her slowly warm up to us; putting her down at night with some snuggles; putting her pointer finger to her cheek when she heard a noise! Hearing Boppa cough, and doing the finger thing with 2 coughs, saying Boppa? Boppa? Repeating words or fun sounds, like "RoWDY" with her hands up in the air -then said, Mama?, then Dada?, then Boppa? then "ehh" (me)--we would each repeat it and throw our hands in the air! Watching her love her new baby-- sometimes strolling, sometimes putting her to sleep in the doll cradle, sometimes pulling her britches down and cleaning her bottom with wipes! pointing to different items on the stockings when I asked her to find something; always asking "where Boppa?"; dancing, racing thru the basement "nakey" before bedtime; thoroughly enjoying her yogurt breakfasts..all over the tablecloth, HA! Having fun with the Apple learning toy-and doing extremely well at it! All told, a very fun Christmas even though I was not at 100%. Asking the Lord to build up my immune system for the next CA trip; and to give me fun ideas to connect with each of my grandkids in the coming year.

The Swan House by Elizabeth Musser

Read for an upcoming Book Club, this was truly enjoyable: a story of redemption in a young Atlanta teenager's life during the turbulent racial tensions in 1962. The opening chapter details the actual plane crash in France that killed many Atlantans who supported the arts during that era. Mary Swan proceeds to journey through her grief, after losing her mother in the crash; which leads her to serving in a soup kitchen in the "rough" part of Atlanta, meeting and deeply caring for the black community -- when it was not popular nor politically correct. Mary Swan comes face to face with her "non-support" of her longtime maid/nanny, Ella Mae. Never knowing or understanding that Ella Mae lived another life, which Mary Swan never cared about. As she is surrounded by others who love deeply, Swanee is forced to face her selfishness, her complacency and finally the need to surrender. My best take aways: stepping out to take risks when fear wants to control us; speaking up for truth even when others want to ignore it; a friendship between Mary Swan and Rachel (Jewish) and Carl (black) -- where each stays true to their beliefs, but is still accepted and interested in the thoughts of one another; forgiveness and reconciliation of what her mother appeared to be and who she really was. Each of us gets the privilege of bringing hope to the ones God brings into our sphere~ Ella Mae was a true example of this - in a quiet, unassuming manner --she just loved.

Kalamazoo Gals by John Thomas

An interesting read by a Gibson guitar aficionado who puzzled over a 1944 photo he uncovered of women in front of the Gibson Guitar company-- a staff of women crafting guitars during World War II. The odd thing about this photo was the fact that John was aware that the company covered up this fact until the 1970's because they wanted to be supportive of the war effort -- they claimed to the world that they would not build guitars until "our boys come home". In John's words, this is what drew him to write this story: "Then I encountered two data points that drove me to write this book. First, in the course of researching an article I’ve long forgotten, I came across an explanation in the book “Gibsons Fabulous Flattops” for why the WWII era Gibson guitars that sport a small golden “Only A Gibson Is Good Enough” banner are such fine instruments: ”Though nearly 90% of Gibson’s workforce was taken from guitar production and put to work on war contracts, the 10% remaining were the company’s most seasoned craftsmen.” Second, I found that unique 1944 photo of the all female workforce. So I began to wonder. Did these women build these guitars? If they did, why doesn’t anyone know about them? What if these guitars are special not because seasoned craftsmen built them, but because craftswomen built them. Thus began my five year journey that ended with the publication of Kalamazoo Gals." I really enjoyed this story for several reasons: the Kalamazoo history, the attitude and culture of World War II, the fact that women were finally recognized for their amazing contribution, the individual stories of the women --and the surprise I felt when I found out that my mother worked at Gibson for a short time prior to her going into the Navy!! At first I felt sadness that we somehow "missed" the announcements of John Thomas coming to Kalamazoo in 2007 to interview the employees from that era; then I realized that it was in September, when we all were caught up in the grief of losing my sister. My mom would not have been able to think cognitively at that time. Here are John's words about how he felt about those Kalamazoo Gals and the friendships that developed: "When I look at that 1944 image today, my eyes immediately focus on the figure sitting in the front row, fifth from the right. That’s Jenny Snow, the first Kalamazoo Gal I met. I visited their home first in September of 2007 and again in the spring of 2008. At the close of our first meeting, Jenny uttered the words that still disquiet me: “Well, I guess I’m just gonna live long enough to see this book come out.” Jenny, like most of our Kalamazoo Galls, did not survive to see the publication of this book. Or, put more honestly, I didn’t finish the book in time for them to see it in print. If I didn’t succeed in my goal of completing the story while all twelve of the Kalamazoo Gals remained with us, I did complete it in time to host one more Sunday afternoon tea for the surviving Kalamazoo Gals and for the children and grandchildren of those not able to see their names in print. And I do hope I’ve succeeded in telling the story well."

The Lost Daughter by Mary Williams

This book caught my eye while browsing the library shelves; not keeping up with the Hollywood celebrities, I wondered about the adoption of a black daughter in her teens. Not only giving a peek at the lives of the "rich and famous", but mostly writing an account of her own journey out of a desperate life; Mary's memoirs bring joys and tears to the reader. It made me appreciate that many celebrities are able to assist those in need in a way that many of us cannot. When her family did not respond in love to her, Jane opened her home and heart to Mary. The author was "on the run" for many years, but seems to come full circle -- embracing both her birth mom with forgiveness, and her adopted mom with gratefulness.