Beside Still Waters a Review

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About Beside Still Waters

"Raised among the Amish of Indiana, 18-year-old Marianna Sommer plans to get baptized into the church, marry Aaron Zook, and set up life in the only community she has ever known. But when her older brother chooses the world’s path following his rumschpringe, and a younger sibling begins showing interest in Englisch ways, Marianna’s parents move the family to Montana. Although she is also in her rumschpringe years and not obligated to move, Marianna makes the journey to dutifully help her mother who is expecting another child. Surprisingly, from strangers on the cross-country train ride to the less rigid stance of the new Montana community, many Englisch influences awaken within Marianna—and even her father—the desire to pursue a deeper kind of joy and love for God. After an accident, Marianna tells her friend Ben a defining story about the Sommer family, and his response further illumines the active relationship God seeks with His followers. In due time, she learns the move from Indiana was not about losing anything, but finding out who God really is. Despite all the shake-ups, Marianna feels a sweet peace, like still waters, in her soul."

My Thoughts ~
What an amazing TRUE STORY inspired book!  When I opened Beside Still Waters, I was swept right in. I could not put it down. The characters' lives were so real. I could feel the hurt, surprise, confusion and admiration that Marianna and her family felt. 

Popping In

I'm taking a few minutes from packing to pop in today to share some beautiful images that my wonderful husband took recently.


The first is from my Mother's front yard and the rest are from a visit to the mountains 2 weeks ago. I'm still amazed at what my husband can do with a camera. He refuses to use any editing software on the majority of his work. It is very rare, for him to have to. I added a softener to the first waterfall picture, but the rest have no editing done to them.   

 Enjoy!

We Found It!

I am so excited! In fact, I'm almost speechless. For several months now, our little family has been praying about moving.



 During those months, I skimmed local area websites for houses. At the first of the month, when I found out what our tax return was going to be I put myself in gear and began searching newspapers and websites.

 Last Wednesday, I came across two places that were way out in the sticks ~ a place that we wanted to live. On Friday evening after my husband got off work, we headed out to the sticks to look at the homes that I called about. Well, let's just say, the first one we sped off from in a hurry. It was absolutely scary! Not booger man scary, but the shape the house was in. So we drove to the other and we loved it! This one has 2 acres of wooded land with a large open yard and a creek. We were in love. So, I called the owner and asked if we could either see it that night or on Saturday. The owner told me that someone had put a deposit on the property. We were so disappointed!

On our way back home, I sat silently praying that the Lord would show us the perfect house for our family. My husband stopped and bought two newspapers at a gas station. The first one had all the same ads, that I read online, so there was nothing in it for us ~ a waste of a whole fifty cents.

I opened the second one and read through the ads and came across one, that seemed (to me) a little out of our price range. While I read it, my husband told me to call and find out where it was, so we could drive by. I called and talked with the owner and loved everything that I heard. Now mind you, I loved everything the other two owners told me, so I kept my reserve wall up until we saw it.

The man told me that the house sits on 30 acres with 2 huge hay fields on either side of the driveway going up to the house ~ I was thinking YES, yes, yes! The country!  The house sits in a wooded area, with the hay fields around it. When we pulled into the gravel driveway, I looked up and saw the cutest brick house. I kept my wits about me, I did not want to get all excited until I saw more. After looking around and peeking into the windows, I was in LOVE, love, love! I called the owner and made an appointment for Saturday morning.  When we left, I prayed all the way home and on into the night and every time I woke up during the night.

On Saturday, we met with the owner and got to see the inside of the house. I was still in LOVE, love, love! The living room, dining room and kitchen are all together with vintage knotty pine paneling, a fireplace and built-in shelves beside the fireplace. There are beautiful hard wood floors throughout the house.

The owner continued telling us about the house and yard. We learned that this house was built by the owner in the 60's where he raised his son and daughter and the land had been in the family for over a 100 years. He told that we were able to hunt the many abundant wildlife that walks through the yard and fields. Oh yes, I forgot to mention that on both sides of the driveway from the road to the house are ~ get this ~ pecan trees! I can't wait for fall, so I can gather those up for all my baking needs. We are also able to have chickens. I am so excited about this. My husband has already begun making plans for a coop.

We'll be spending the next few days finalizing all our packing. Yep, I already started several weeks ago. I only have a few more things, that need to be put in boxes. My husband took this Thursday off from work, so we could run some errands, well, the day will be used for some cleaning and moving in. I'll take pictures to share with you all.

I'm going for my Sunday afternoon nap.

A Thought

I would like to make a plea to all of you who are addicted to DIY/HGTV ~ Painting beautiful old hardwood floors a Pickling Green with a design in the paint is not a good idea.


 In fact, it is just down right AWFUL! And if you are thinking about buying a house to rent for some added income and you don't have the money to bring that cute little 1930's bungalow into the modern age ~ You can't afford to be a landlord! Just a little thought to think about ~I don't believe there are many sane people who want there families living in a house that still contains the original asbestos filled ceiling tiles and lead based paint, at least I don't. So when you don't receive a call back from a prospective renter ~ Don't get mad at the couple. Get mad at yourself for making a rash decision when you should have pondered a little longer the whole idea along with the money woes that go along with owning an income property.

Yes, my husband and I have recently experienced what you've read. We love older homes ~ they have so much character!  We were shocked right out of our heads when we stepped into this amazing 1930's bungalow and saw what the owner considered updated. The "what we imagined as beautiful" fireplace had been paneled over and a huge ugly 1960's gas heater sat in front of it. The original tangerine orange counter tops were still intact in the kitchen with an extremely loved stove from the 60's. A couple of flip sides to this nightmare ~ the 2 huge, I mean HUGE screened porches on the front and back of the house and then there was the wonderful garden spot.  Oh well, we'll keep looking.


Monkey and I have been studying the life of Paul in our Bible lessons. This morning something stood out to me. This something I've read and heard many times before, but for some reason I saw it in a whole different light. ~ When Paul and Silas were in Phillipi  preaching, they were taken up to the magistrates who had them stripped and beaten. They were then put in shackles and imprisoned. Not one time does the Bible say, that these two men had a pity party. They could have sat at in the jail and cried and carried on wondering how they were going to get out ~ if ever. Instead they were rejoicing and singing praises at one of the darkest moments in their lives.  Paul and Silas saw the good in a bad situation and they turned it into something that was later on able to be used by God. It makes me wonder if I could be so strong.  I would like to say that I could, but then I'd be lying.  We've all had some dark moments in our lives. How did we react? It is definitely something to think about.

DayBook

Outside my window... the scene is beautiful! The sun is shining with huge, puffy clouds floating aimlessly by. The wind is blowing again, today. All the pollen has been washed away, from all the rain we had during the night.



I am thinking... about all the things I have to do today ~ baking, laundry, extra dusting and vacuuming, going through all of my fabric ~ weeding out what I don't need.
I am thankful for...  for so many things... I have my Salvation, a wonderful husband who loves me and works very hart to provide for our family. I also have my precious Monkey ~ what a joy it is to be his Momma. 
From the learning rooms... we are on the final track for the year. We've finished Math and will be working on finishing up with Science this week. We started studying the life of Paul in Bible. This week we've learned more about his conversion. What a miracle the Lord performed in Saul's life on the road to Damascus.
From the kitchen... we're having Cheesy Potato Soup for supper. I have a batch of Rolls in the works to be placed  in the freezer.
I am creating... I've been working on making over a child's cane bottom chair, that I picked up a couple of weeks ago. I've removed all the cane and painted it black. I have a before picture and can't wait to finish the chair for the after picture.
I am reading... The Final Summit by Andy Andrews for a review. All I can say is "WOW!"
I am praying... about a situation that is very close to my heart. We need wisdom in how to go about it.
Around the house... I have some more decluttering that I'm working on this week. Hopefully, I'll have enough things to take to the flea market and sell, if not then what I do have will be donated.
A few plans for the rest of the week... since everyday is different, who knows! Hopefully, I'll be able to stay at home and not have to go anywhere. Which is almost every week!

The Mountains Bow Down

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About The Mountains Bow Down:

Everything's going to work out. Time away always makes things better . . ..
That's what FBI Special Agent Raleigh Harmon believes as she boards a cruise to Alaska. A land of mountains and gems and minerals, The Last Frontier is a dream destination for this forensic geologist who's hoping to leave behind a hectic work schedule and an engagement drained of romance.

But when a passenger goes missing and winds up dead, Raleigh's vacation suddenly gets lost at sea. The ship's security chief tries to rule the death a suicide, but Raleigh's forensics background points to a much darker conclusion: Somewhere onboard, a ruthless murderer walks free.

Engulfed by one of her toughest cases yet, Raleigh requests assistance from the FBI and receives her nemesis-perpetual ladies man Special Agent Jack Stephanson. As the cruise ship sails through the Inside Passage, Raleigh has five days to solve a high-profile murder, provide consultation for a movie filming onboard, and figure out her increasingly complicated feelings for Jack-who might not be such a jerk after all.

And that's only her work life. Family offers even more challenges. Joined on the cruise by her mother and aunt, Raleigh watches helplessly as disturbing rifts splinter her family.

Like the scenery that surrounds the cruise ship, Raleigh discovers a situation so steep and so complex that even the mountains might bow down.

About the Author:

Sibella Giorello grew up in Alaska and majored in geology at Mount Holyoke College. After riding a motorcycle across the country, she worked as a features writer for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Her stories have won state and national awards, including two nominations for the Pulitzer Prize. She now lives in Washington state with her husband and sons. Find out more about Sibella and her other books at her website. 

My Thoughts:

I'm really not sure what to think about this book. This is a Raliegh Harmon series and I felt a little in the dark about the character since this was the first book that I've read.  To me,  there were too many confusing little turns in the story that kept me from being focused on the story as a whole.  The description of the Alaskan scenery is amazing. This is a good mystery book that needs to be read after reading the first three, so you'll know what makes Raliegh Harmon who she is.



I received this book for free from Litfuse in return for my honest opinion in this review.

The Mountains Bow Down, Raleigh Harmon Series #3 By Sibella Giorello / Thomas Nelson A cruise to Alaska sounds like the perfect vacation--it's a geologist's dream and will give Raleigh space to sort out her feelings about her recent engagement. But before the ship even reaches its first port, a case manages to find her. The producer of a movie that's being filmed onboard goes missing and is then discovered hanging from the railing. Suicide seems to be the cause, but Raleigh quickly realizes the pieces don't add up. When the Seattle field office sends Jack Stephanson to assist her in the investigation, her personal uncertainty skyrockets. Why is it that she forgets to even call her fiance back in Virginia. And Jack seems to know her as well as she knows herself. She'll have to wait to sort out those feelings, though, because she and Jack only have five days before the cruise ends to solve this case.

DayBook

Outside my window...  is dreary! The clouds are hanging around with the threat of more rain. Of course, with clouds come cooler temperatures.



I am thinking... about all the new projects that I have planned to work on over the next couple of weeks. I'm really excited about them and can't wait to share them.
I am thankful for... unexpected blessings!
From the learning rooms... school is beginning to wind down. Monkey will be finished with Math this week and then one by one, we'll be picking off other subjects. I'll be ordering Monkey's achievement tests within the next few days, so I can give those at the end of May.
From the kitchen... I have a pot of pinto beans on the stove. Since I've started on my journey of changing my eating habits and slowly pushing my husband in on the journey, there are so many different foods that I want us to try. I will give both my husband and son credit for trying something that they really don't care for but I love.
I am creating...  several things, I'm still working on the infamous afghan. I bought some homespun fabric on Saturday to use for some bells that I'll be making to sell along with some other things.
I am reading...  Cathy Duffy's 100 Top Picks of Homeschool Curriculum and learning many things. You can read more regarding Cathy's reviews on her WEBSITE.
I am praying... for wisdom ~ I'm still trying to decide on which Grammar and/or Language Arts program to use for Monkey in the fall.
Around the house... today~ a little straightening up
A few plans for the rest of the week...  hopefully, I'll be able to stay home during the day and not have to go anywhere except for church on Wednesday night.

Here's a photo of some of our unexpected blessing ~ My husband's boss gave

him three dozen fresh free range eggs. 

We've not had free range eggs since we left Montana.~ What a blessing!

Plain Wisdom a Review

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Plain Wisdom


Best-selling novelist Cindy Woodsmall might seem to have little in common with Miriam Flaud, a woman immersed in the culture of Old Order Amish. But with nine children and almost 60 years of marriage between them, Cindy and Miriam both have found the secrets to facing life with strength and grace. Whether enduring financial setbacks, celebrating new babies and times of prosperity, grieving the crushing losses in the deaths of family and friends, or facing disappointments with their respective communities—through it all they find guidance for each day by looking to God. 

With poignant recollections, unexpected insights, and humorous tales, the two women welcome you into their unique friendship.  You’ll also gain a rare glimpse into the traditions and ways of the Amish as Miriam recalls special occasions and shares family recipes throughout the book.
 Plain Wisdom is a heartwarming celebration of God, womanhood, and the search for beauty that unites us all. So grab your cup and your quilt and settle in for a soul-comforting read with Plain Wisdom. 

My Thoughts:

Being able to take a peak into the lives of the Amish people is very exciting since they are so protective.  Cindy and Miriam both share many things regarding their lives and families. Yes, there is a difference in the lives of these precious  people. But they are just like everyone else, dealing with ups and downs. There are many Bible verses throughout the book, that relate to the nuggets of wisdom shared by both of these ladies. Included in the book are family recipes from both ladies.  This is a wonderful book, that I would recommend to anyone.

I received an advance copy of this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Plain Wisdom: An Invitation into an Amish Home and the Hearts of Two Women By Cindy Woodsmall & Miriam Flaud / WaterBrook The love of family, the fulfilling power of faith, the warmth of lasting joy and the pain of loss are common experiences that unite all Christian wives and mothers, regardless of denomination or place in life. Among these common threads, few of life's experiences can compare to the joy of true friendship. Amish fiction writer Cindy Woodsmall and an Old Order Amish woman, Miriam Flaud, found a vibrant friendship despite their apparent differences. Plain Wisdom: An Invitation into an Amish Home and The Hearts of Two Women is a compilation of stories from their lives, both Englischer and Amish that encourages women like you, wherever you are in your Christian walk. This volume also offers a discussion guide for groups and even includes several recipes. Plain Wisdom is a heartwarming celebration of faith, womanhood, and the search for beauty and fulfillment that unites us all.